Ukrainian Kosovytsia

The International Tournament on hand hay-mowing of lowland bogs

“Ukrainian kosovytsia – 2010”

On the 13th of August 2010 the Tournament on hand hay-mowing of lowland bogs named “Ukrainian Kosovytsia – 2010” will take place in the National Nature Park “Pripyat-Stokhid” (Volyn region, Liubeshiv district).

The organizers of the Tournament are the State Agency for Protected Areas of Ukraine, United Nations Development Programme in Ukraine, All-Ukrainian Non-Governmental Organization “Association of Protected Areas of Ukraine”, National Nature Park “Pripyat-Stokhid”.

The main goal of the Tournament is a renewal of lowland bogs as a breeding area for the rare bird species protected by the Red Book of Ukraine, namely, a black stork (Ciconia nigra), and an aquatic warbler (Acrocephalus paludicola), with the latter one being under the global protection. It is precisely a traditional hand way of mowing that does not disturb the natural conditions for flora and fauna, and is environmentally sound mechanism for a renewal of lowland bogs recently overgrown with grass, and, correspondingly, unadapted for a bird breeding.

In addition, with the supporting such an event UNDP/GEF Project contributes to the development and exploring the possibilities of partnership relations between the national nature park administration, local business companies, local authorities, and other associates while holding joint fund-raising events. Besides, the auxiliary goal is a popularization and promotion of active and healthy life-style.

The Tournament on hand hay-mowing is to be held in two formats – team contest and individual championship among the top team participants. The “Ukrainian Kosovytsia – 2010” invites to a contest all comers regardless of the age, sex, and place of residence. More detailed information can be found in the Regulations on the Tournament.

Mower teams (consisting of two participants) enjoy the possibility to send an application form for the Tournament either via web-site www.pzf.org.ua or directly to the National NaturePark “Pripyat-Stokhid” administration until August 6, 2010

Participation is free of charge.