The Park Forest Vodno is one of the most important green areas near Skopje, with an unrivaled protective, sanitary-hygienic, ecological, and sports-recreational role due to its large surface and purpose.
The afforestation of Vodno began immediately after World War II, in 1946. The previously barren terrain was transformed into a forest through complex afforestation and protection measures. The primary goal was to protect the terrain, structures, and nearby settlements from erosion and to improve the water regime in the wider area. Vodno was declared a Park Forest in 1976.
Vodno’s highest peak, Krstovar (1,067 m), with its mountain hut and the Millennium Cross, serves as a prominent viewpoint and a striking landmark of Skopje and the entire Skopje Valley. In the higher parts of Vodno, tree species such as chestnut, oak, ash, and hornbeam have been preserved.
Black pine plantations on Vodno are significant and numerous. Unlike in the past, Vodno is now fully forested. Thanks to its specific geological base and climate, Vodno is home to rich flora and fauna.
Invertebrates are the most diverse yet least studied group. There are many species of grasshoppers, butterflies, amphibians, birds, and mammals, as well as 143 species of mushrooms, with macromycetes being the most common.
Ecosystems in Vodno
There are seven main ecosystem groups:
1. Natural forest ecosystems:
– Oak forests
– Chestnut forests
– Boscages
2. Anthropogenic forests:
– Mixed deciduous and coniferous plantations
– Black pine plantations
3. Open spaces with spruce
4. Dry grassland ecosystems
5. Limestone cliffs
6. Arable land, vineyards, and orchards
7. Populated areas
Location
Vodno is located in the southwestern part of the Skopje Valley. It divides the valley into two parts: the northern part, where the city of Skopje is located, and the southern part, which includes the basin of Markova Reka and the Breznica plateau. Vodno stretches approximately 12 km from the Usje factory to the Treska River and Lake Matka.
Area
Vodno covers an area of 4,481.02 hectares, which includes forests, barren land, pastures, and hiking trails.
Landscape
The altitude in the Park Forest Vodno ranges from 280 m to 1,066 m. This height difference and the steep slopes enable the growth of various tree species, including oak, black pine, linden, birch, chestnut, and hornbeam. The temperature decreases by approximately 0.5 °C for every 100 m increase in elevation.
Conservation Goals
The long-term goal for Vodno is to preserve and enhance the quality of its forests. Vodno was established as a Park Forest for special purposes and should maintain this status. Afforestation efforts have used various methods and techniques to transform the barren, erosion-prone terrain into forested land. Given the high number of visitors, educating the public on responsible behavior is essential to prevent damage to the ecosystems, which already face biotic and abiotic threats.
Natural and Cultural Landmarks
Vodno offers several sites of natural and cultural interest:
– Markova Kruška: A medieval ruin located on the easternmost part of the northern slopes, spanning 50 hectares. The terrain is rugged but accessible.
– Paleontological Site Mali Most: Located below the village of Gorno Nerezi at an elevation of 500 m. This site contains a lignite layer and white sand where a mastodon fossil – an ancestor of the modern elephant – was discovered. The site has both scientific and touristic value.
– Monasteries of St. Panteleimon and St. Nicholas: Located in the Treska River canyon. These sites are protected under the Law on the Protection of Cultural and Historical Monuments, and the introduction of non-native plant species in their vicinity is prohibited.
– Kale Peak: A natural basin between the Vardar, Treska, and Markova Reka rivers. The northern slopes are home to rare plant species like Ramonda nathaliae, Saxifraga scardica, Saxifraga grisebachii, and Centaurea campylacme. This site is valuable for scientific research and can also serve as a tourist attraction.
The Park Forest Vodno is a vital natural and recreational asset for Skopje, providing ecological, cultural, and educational benefits for both residents and visitors.