The city-wide initiative, organized by the State Forestry Enterprise and the Municipality of Stara Zagora, brought together hundreds of people – representatives of institutions, companies, NGOs, and citizens – all united by the “green” cause.

The goal of the campaign was to begin the gradual restoration of forest areas that were devastated by wildfires last summer. The burned area near the “7th kilometer” location covers approximately 660 acres, organizers reported. Over 140 acres of them had been cleared and prepared in advance, and that’s where the reforestation began on the sunny Saturday.

More than 20,000 young “Atlas cedar” saplings were planted as part of this initial effort, according to organizers. The group of volunteers from “VIDEOTON Bulgaria” was one of the largest, and the most enthusiastic participants were the children. Following the guidance and example of their parents, they carefully planted the young trees into the soil, with smiles on their faces and faith that a forest would grow once again on this land.