Assessment and cultural ecosystem service mapping in mountain protected areas – “Pirin” National park

The assessment and mapping of ecosystems their services is considered an important action that effectively contributes to proper understanding how support human well-being, furthermore – promote the sustainable use natural resources. diversity cultural landscapes, especially in mountain areas, a significant prerequisite for variety ecosystem are valuable society. This evaluation basis environmental management practices policymaking. study presents approach service (CES) “Cultural heritage” recognised as provided by protected areas (PAs) “Pirin” National Park. data from Management Plan NP were used characterization biophysical condition forest potential provide CESs. analysis results revealed conservation regime allowed territories preserve high degree naturalness very good ecological 94.80% assessed with score 4 –“good” 0.44% “very good” 5. majority Pinus peuce forests, located mainly on territory reserves “Bayuvi Dupki- Dzhindzhiritsa” “Yulen”, proving importance protective territories. Forest average capacity ES "Cultural heritage" prevailed, which consistent well-preserved unique nature, species richness. Considerable 5 capacity, mostly at foothill huts.