The picturesque Pivka region of Slovenia hosted the Botanical Summer Walk with Florjan, a nature-focused event that brought together the local community and wildlife enthusiasts. The walk, which took place under the Holy Trinity, was enhanced by the participation of Sandi Šenkinc, president of the Pivka Hunting Association (LD). This was the second of three initiatives organized under the WE AND THE ANIMALS study circle in collaboration with the Pivka Tourist Institute.
Exploring Nature with Expert Guidance
Participants on the walk traversed areas within the Pivka Game Reserve, where sustainable game management is conducted under the hunting management area plans and annual ground plans. This collaboration highlighted the interconnectedness of flora, fauna, and sustainable land management practices.
Sandi Šenkinc provided invaluable insights into wildlife behavior and conservation, emphasizing the importance of safe and respectful engagement with nature. Participants learned to identify signs of wildlife presence, appreciate the ecological significance of game reserves, and practice caution when encountering animals, particularly during the summer when cubs are vulnerable.
EU Policy Relevance
This initiative aligns with the EU’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the Green Deal, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting people with nature and fostering environmental literacy. By addressing human-wildlife coexistence through education and hands-on experiences, this project contributes to the EU’s goal of preserving biodiversity while encouraging sustainable practices at the local level.
Such programs demonstrate the critical role of grassroots efforts in achieving EU-wide environmental objectives and highlight the value of collaboration between local communities, conservationists, and policymakers.
Coexisting with Wildlife
Key takeaways from the walk included advice on handling potential wildlife encounters:
- Remain calm and quiet: Avoid startling animals, especially if they may be protecting their young.
- Respect natural habitats: Observe from a distance, retreat quietly when necessary, and avoid leaving traces.
- Understand the local ecosystem: Familiarize yourself with the area’s flora, fauna, and environmental characteristics to enhance the experience and promote safety.
This nature walk underscored the privilege of observing wildlife in its natural habitat and fostered a deeper connection between humans and the environment.
Raising Awareness through Collaboration
The event served as a platform to address public awareness on coexistence with wildlife, an often-sensitive topic. By approaching this theme positively and practically, the WE AND THE ANIMALS study circle aims to create a harmonious balance between local communities and their surrounding ecosystems.
The initiative was made possible with support from the Slovenian Hunting Association and local collaborators, including:
- Sandi Šenkinc, President of the Pivka Hunting Association(LD)
- Alojz Kovšca, President of the Slovenian Hunting Association
- Gregor Bolčina, Urša Kmetec, and other LZS colleagues
The collaboration highlights the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders in promoting biodiversity, environmental stewardship, and sustainable land use.
For more information, please visit:
Slovenian Hunting Association Website
Source: Marjeta Marincic