Hungary’s grassland ecosystems play a crucial role in the country’s natural heritage. Three-quarters of protected plant species and half of protected animal species are associated with these habitats, said Bertalan Balczó at the opening event of a series of model farm demonstrations launched under the Grassland Project in Kőszeg. The Deputy State Secretary for Nature Conservation added that the Project plays a key role in the long-term preservation of domestic grasslands.
The fifth round of “The Secrets of Grasslands” photo contest draws attention to the beauty and diversity of grasslands. In the landscape category, participants are invited to present the charm and rich variety of grasslands from a broader perspective. A separate category was announced for showcasing the seasonal transformations of grassland habitats. We spoke with Bertalan Balczó, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, agricultural engineer, and chair of the jury, about the themes of the contest and the role of grassland protection, which lies at its core.
The Grassland Conservation Management Advisory Service was established under the Grassland-HU integrated project to promote conservation-friendly grassland management and provide professional support for farmers who are open to adapt agri-environmental measures.
It is reassuring to see those people at the conference, whose presence is essential to the success of the project – said Bertalan Balczó, deputy assistant secretary for environment at the opening conference of the Grassland-HU LIFE integrated project at the Herman Ottó Conference Centre.