This week, a meeting of the Public Council under Rosleskhoz was held at the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation. The meeting was timed to coincide with Forest Workers' Day, but the discussion turned out to be broader and more important than just congratulations. Two topics that had not previously been raised at this level were discussed: the economic potential of wild-growing resources (dikorosy) and the preservation of biodiversity. Darya Petrova, Director of the Irbis Association and member of the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation, spoke as part of the meeting’s agenda. The Irbis Association supports the creation of specially protected areas—especially in places where rare and Red List animals live. This is one of the practical tools that genuinely helps preserve their habitats. However, there is also a worrying issue. This year, there is a catastrophic shortage of forage in the forests: mushrooms, berries, and nuts are almost nonexistent. The reason is not only the climate but also the industrial—and often illegal—harvesting of wild-growing resources. As a result, animals have nothing to eat and start coming closer to human settlements. Bears roaming through villages are not an "invasion"—they are driven by hunger.

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In addressing the issue of wild-growing resources, I would like to count on your support in developing relevant legislation and in submitting necessary proposals to the current legislation to somehow resolve this problem. Otherwise, we will continue to see this situation unfold.
There is nothing to eat not only for bears but also for other animals in Altai, the Krasnoyarsk Territory, and Khakassia,

Darya Petrova addressed her colleagues.

We are ready to help not only with public monitoring of illegal activities in the forests but also with improving the regulatory framework. The topic is sensitive: wild-growing resources relate to both the economy and the ecosystem. But if we do not solve the problem now, tomorrow it will solve itself—and not in our favor. The Irbis Association will continue to monitor the issue and participate in developing solutions. The forest is a home. And we stand for ensuring that all its inhabitants have something to eat.