The slopes surrounding Bukovel are wrapped in endless green – spruce, fir, beech, and mixed forests that give the Carpathians their soul. Each has its own rhythm, color, and purpose in nature’s grand design.
- Spruce and fir forests rise high in the mountains – tall, elegant trees forming cool, shadowy groves.
- Beech woods cover the lower slopes, glowing each autumn in a cascade of gold and crimson.
- Among the mixed forests, you’ll find pines, maples, sycamores, and oaks – a harmony of species that keeps the Carpathian landscape alive.
Today we pay tribute to those who stand watch over these living treasures – the foresters.
In a time of war and global ecological strain, their role has become crucial. They protect forests from fires and disease, restore damaged areas, and even provide essential resources for the nation’s resilience and recovery.
These are the heroes of the quiet front – their work often unseen, yet vital for the planet’s balance and the country’s future.
Their mission
Foresters perform an extraordinary, multi-layered task:
- expanding Ukraine’s forest cover and planting new green areas;
- introducing sustainable and eco-safe management practices;
- fighting fires, pests, and illegal logging;
- overseeing responsible use of forest resources;
- restoring cut forests and tending young growth.
Growing a forest takes generations – decades, even centuries. Every tree here carries the care and legacy of countless foresters who’ve devoted their lives to protecting these "green lungs" of the planet.
Why forests matter
They are far more than timber:
- they cleanse the air we breathe;
- safeguard pure water sources – the Tysa, Prut, and Dniester rivers;
- shelter rare wildlife like the brown bear, lynx, and capercaillie;
- maintain natural climate and water balance;
- and draw visitors from around the world, preserving the cultural and natural identity of the Carpathians.
Here, in this mountain region, forests are the backbone of ecological safety and community wellbeing.
A day to honor the forest
Each third Sunday of September, as the Carpathian slopes turn gold, Ukraine celebrates Forester’s Day – a heartfelt tribute to those who guard our natural wealth. It’s more than a professional holiday – it’s a reminder that care for the forest begins with each of us.
A forest begins with small things:
- a bottle not left behind,
- a cigarette butt properly discarded,
- a tree planted,
- a mindful step on a forest trail.
We are all its keepers – not by law, but by belonging. On this day, we thank the forestry professionals for their devotion, patience, and deep love for nature – for the clean air, pure water, and hope they give to future generations.
Together, we can protect the green beauty of Ukraine – for ourselves, our children, and everyone who dreams of seeing the grandeur of the Carpathians, including here at Bukovel.
Previously, we wrote about the timeless beauty of the Carpathian spruce and the unique flora of Bukovel.