A targeted afforestation initiative has been successfully implemented in Vau i Dejës Municipality, contributing to the restoration of forest ecosystems and delivering long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits. Conducted between January and February 2025, the project involved the afforestation of 2 hectares in the Gjadri basin with poplar and willow seedlings, fast-growing tree species selected for their effectiveness in flood mitigation, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable timber production.  

The initiative was led by the Shkodër Forest Federation, in close coordination with the Vau i Dejës Forestry Department, with the objective of establishing a model forest that safeguards agricultural land from flooding and provides a secure habitat for local wildlife. By enhancing water retention, facilitating carbon sequestration, and promoting biodiversity, the project plays a critical role in mitigating the effects of climate change.  

Beyond ecological restoration, the initiative underscores the importance of sustainable forest management by equipping local communities with the skills required for effective land stewardship. CNVP Albania, a key implementing partner, is expanding its work in forest and riverbed management, an essential component in reducing the flood risks faced by agricultural lands and residential areas.  

This afforestation effort is part of the broader “Integrated Forest Management along the Transboundary Drin River Basin” project, which focuses on rehabilitating degraded forest areas and advancing sustainable forestry practices throughout the Western Balkans. The project is funded by the Austrian Development Agency and initiated by ICEP – weltweit mehr unternehmen, with CNVP Albania playing a central role in fostering regional and international cooperation for the responsible use of forest resources.