Tomáš Vrška, the director of Masaryk Forest School, was recently awarded by the Czech Nature and Landscape Protection Agency (AOPK ČR) for his initiative in promoting nature-friendly and gentle forest management. The award was given out during the “Selected problems of our nature and landscape” conference and was presented by Kateřina Černý Pixová, vice dean of the Faculty of Environment at the Czech University of Life Sciences, and František Pelc, director of AOPK ČR.

Tomáš Vrška’s work in the field of forest management is a combination of scientific knowledge and practical experience. He has been promoting a strategy of forest management that is focused on the adaptation of forests to climate change by increasing their diversity in terms of both tree species and age. The forest management approach he has implemented at the Masaryk Forest in Křtiny results in natural forest regeneration accounting for over 50% of total regeneration.

The AOPK ČR award recognizes individuals or initiatives that contribute to improving the state of the natural world. In this case, Tomáš Vrška’s efforts to promote a nature-friendly and sustainable approach to forest management have been recognized and appreciated. He has been successful in combining theory and practice to create a vision for the future of forest management and has the support of a team of educated, thoughtful, and skilled colleagues who help bring this vision to life.

Tomáš Vrška considers the AOPK ČR award to be primarily for the entire team at Masaryk Forest School, as changing the approach to forest management requires the collective effort of many individuals. The award is a testament to their commitment to sustainable and nature-friendly forest management and the positive impact they are having on the environment.

In conclusion, the award given to Tomáš Vrška and Masaryk Forest School highlights the importance of promoting nature-friendly and sustainable approaches to forest management. It recognizes the work of individuals and organizations who are making a positive impact on the environment and sets an example for others to follow.

Article by Prague Forum