The Kyrovohrad region is set to create its first national nature park, the “Chornolissko-Bokovenkivskyi” National Nature Park (NNP). This park will include the most valuable natural territories of the region, which have been under scientific study since the 19th century.
The first mentions of the need to protect the Black Forest (Chornyi Lis) date back to the early 20th century. In 1926, it received the status of a nature monument of republican significance, and in 1932, there were plans to expand it into a state reserve. However, these plans were thwarted by Stalinist repressions. Much later, in 1974, a part of the Black Forest was declared the “Chornoliskyi” reserve. In 2002, the idea of creating a large protected area was revisited. Thorough scientific studies were conducted to define its projected boundaries and functional zoning.
The Value and Uniqueness of the Territory
The area proposed for the national park has a rich flora and fauna. It is home to over 750 species of higher vascular plants. During the current research phase, 21 new species of lichens were discovered for the Kyrovohrad region. The fauna is also remarkable in its diversity. It includes rare insect species such as the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus), great oak longhorn beetle (Cerambyx cerdo), and mnemosyne (Parnassius mnemosyne). The populations of terrestrial mollusks are also of particular value, with some species protected at both national and international levels.
The uniqueness of the Chornoliskyi and Dmytrivsko-Chutivskyi forest massifs lies in the fact that they are the southernmost outpost of broadleaf forests in the country, making them especially valuable for biodiversity conservation.
The Historical Heritage of the Black Forest
From 1918 to 1922, this area was home to a rebel republic that successfully fought against the Bolshevik occupiers. The famous Black Trail (Chornyi Shliakh), which in the 18th century served as a base for the Haidamaky (Ukrainian insurgent Cossacks), also passed through this territory. It was from its depths that they emerged to punish the oppressors of the people. The rebel leader Pylyp Khmara, a terror to the Red invaders, operated in the Black Forest, and in the Palchykove tract lies the grave of the legendary Black Raven (Chornyi Voron, Mykola Skliar).
Next Steps and Prospects for the Park’s Establishment
Last week, the first working meeting of the year on the establishment of the “Chornolissko-Bokovenkivskyi” National Nature Park was held, organized by the Kyrovohrad Regional Military Administration (Kyrovohradska OVA). This event gives us cautious optimism for the future, as the region’s leadership has taken a clear pro-conservation stance.
The establishment of this national nature park is a chance for the Black Forest. It is an opportunity to preserve its unique nature for future generations and allow people to enjoy its beauty and richness.
