Protected areas may receive the diploma for their outstanding scientific, cultural or aesthetic qualities, but they must also be the subject of a suitable conservation scheme. Since its creation in 1965, 74 protected areas located in 29 European countries have been granted the European Diploma.
The award of the European Diploma provides an invaluable stimulus for the efficient protection and management of landscapes, reserves or natural monuments and sites with special European significance. For the authorities responsible for protected areas, the award of the European Diploma represents an additional international tool which, under Council of Europe auspices, enhances their management and conservation efforts. The unique nature of the Diploma also lies in the fact that it is awarded for a limited duration; the threat that it may be withdrawn has a deterrent effect in respect of dangers liable to cause harm to the area and acts as a stimulus for the preservation and improvement of the site.
Source: www.coe.int - The European Diploma for Protected Areas
Sites with the Council of Europe's European Diploma for Protected Areas in Slovakia
Dobročský Prales National Nature Reserve
Date of awarding the diploma: 18.09.1998
Area: 204.29 ha (protection zone 100.44 ha)
District: Brezno
Justification for inclusion:
An example of the original undisturbed ecosystems of the Carpathian forests in Central Europe, in the fir-beech zone, in a developmental stage and dynamics that correspond to natural laws without human influence. Fir trees reach extraordinary dimensions and volume, as do other species, mainly spruces. The territory also has other values from an ecological, aesthetic and cultural point of view.
Poloniny National Park
Date of award of diploma: 18.09.1998
Area: 29 805.0514 ha (protection zone 10 973.2893 ha)
District: Snina
Reasons for inclusion:
A model example of the vegetation development of the Central European forest from the glacial period to the present day with a high degree of preservation of the original ecosystems of the primary forest in its most valuable parts. The biogeographical position of the territory, on the border of the Western and Eastern Carpathians, determined its high species richness, significant for monitoring the development of vegetation, fauna and the spread of species in the mighty Carpathian arc. The territory also has other values from the point of view of scientific, aesthetic and cultural
Sources:
www.sopsr.sk
www.coe.int - The European Diploma for Protected Areas