ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT ECOLOGICAL CONDITION AND USAGE OF THE BEREZNE STATE DENDROLOGICAL PARK

Abstract

The article examines the current ecological condition of the Berezne State Dendrological Park, one of the largest protected natural areas in the Rivne region of Ukraine. The study aims to assess the park’s ecological state, including its flora and fauna, and to identify threats and challenges caused by climate change and anthropogenic influences. A comprehensive approach was employed, involving the analysis of materials, cartography, and inventory data and the application of a SWOT analysis. Key aspects of the park’s functioning were considered, including its biodiversity, social and economic functions, and threats to its sustainable development. The biodiversity assessment showed that the park is rich in a variety of tree and shrub species (750 plant taxa belonging to 47 families and 124 genera), including those that are part of the collection funds. The dendrological park is an important object of garden and park art with high dendrological value, although it has some aspects that require improvement, particularly in terms of the renewal of introduced species and enhancing the care of plantings. The primary issues found include climate change, insufficient moisture levels, overcrowding of tree plantations, and wear of park infrastructure. The study established that the dendrological park has significant potential for developing ecological tourism and improving recreational conditions. Ensuring the park’s sustainable functioning requires comprehensive infrastructure reconstruction, the renewal of plant collections, and a strategic development plan focused on biodiversity conservation, tourism development, and attracting investments.