The reduction in the number of foresters within the scope of the 2006 reform has led to an increase in large forest fires. Professor Konstantin Krutovsky, head of the laboratory of forest genomics at the Siberian Federal University, told socialbites.ca.
After the reform in Russia in 2006, the number of foresters was reduced. According to Krutovsky, this was a mistake that led to an increase in the number of forest fires.
“A forest fire in itself is a natural phenomenon. And if it was not stopped from the very beginning – which was previously done with the help of forestry departments – then it will no longer be possible to stop it. Only heavy and prolonged rains can cause major damage,” Krutovsky told socialbites.ca. He said it could stop a fire.
The scientist said foresters should be brought back and the current Forest Code should be drastically changed.
“It is fundamentally important that the declarations of forest users be made fully public; this would radically increase public control over forests. It is necessary to strengthen the control, protection and constant monitoring of forests,” Krutovsky concluded.
previously scientist explainedHow many trees are needed for reforestation in Russia?