A major reforestation effort is underway in Korthpulë, Pukë, where three hectares of degraded land have been planted with 2,000 chestnut seedlings this winter.  

Implmented by the Qerret Forest and Pasture User Association (FPUA) under the supervision of Puka Municipality, the initiative aims to restore vital forest ecosystems while delivering long-term environmental, social, and economic benefits to local communities.  

Once fully established, the forest will provide food and shelter for wildlife, while also supporting the local economy through timber, fruit and honey production, and hunting. In addition to these tangible benefits, the project will enhance biodiversity, improve water retention, and contribute to carbon sequestration—critical in the fight against climate change.  

Beyond ecological restoration, the initiative promotes sustainable forest management practices, equipping local communities with essential skills to ensure the long-term health of the region’s woodlands. CNVP Albania, a key implementing partner, continues to expand its forest management programs, strengthening regional and international collaboration for sustainable resource use.  

The initiative is part of the “Integrated Forest Management along the Transboundary Drin River Basin” project, which focuses on restoring damaged forest areas and promoting sustainable forestry across the Western Balkans. 

Funded by the Austrian Development Agency and initiated by ICEP – weltweit mehr unternehmen, the project is led by CNVP Albania, reinforcing efforts to build resilient ecosystems and healthier communities throughout the region.