Educational workshops on the biodiversity of the Bieszczady Mountains
First Edition of the “Biodiversity of the Bieszczady Mountains” Workshops
From April 17 to 19, 2026, the first of five editions of three-day educational workshops was held as part of the project “CARPATHIAN YOUTH FOR ECO SMART EDUCATION” / “Biodiversity of the Bieszczady Mountains – three-day educational workshops for children.”
The aim of the trip was to introduce participants to the natural richness of the Bieszczady Mountains and to foster pro-environmental attitudes through direct contact with nature, observation of ecosystems, and field activities led by specialists. The workshops took place in one of the facilities located in the area of Ustrzyki Górne, in close proximity to the most important trails of the Bieszczady National Park, including those leading to Tarnica, Połonina Caryńska, and Połonina Wetlińska. The location enabled quick access to the field and the conducting of activities in a natural mountain environment.
This area, which belongs to the Bieszczady National Park, is one of the most valuable natural regions in Poland and forms part of the UNESCO “East Carpathians” Biosphere Reserve.
Day One – Discovering the Natural World
The first day of the workshops was devoted to an introduction to biodiversity. Participants took part in integration activities, ecological quizzes, and a presentation on the ecosystems of the Carpathians. During the field component, the children observed animal tracks, footprints, and other signs of wildlife presence in the Bieszczady Mountains. Activities conducted in areas that serve as natural wildlife refuges attracted particular interest, where the role of predators in the ecosystem was discussed. The day concluded with an educational campfire and art workshops, during which participants created a “map of forest life.”
Day Two – Mountains and Water
The second day focused on a mountain expedition. Under the supervision of Beskid guides, participants set out on one of the Bieszczady trails, learning about vegetation zones and the relationships within the mountain ecosystem. As part of the fieldwork, the children also examined the properties of water in mountain streams—analyzing its clarity, temperature, and the presence of microorganisms. The experimental component helped them understand the importance of clean water for the functioning of the natural environment. The afternoon was dedicated to work in a mini nature laboratory, where participants observed soil and water samples under a microscope and discussed concepts such as the food chain and trophic network.
Day Three – Humans and Responsibility for Nature
The final day of the workshops focused on the relationship between humans and nature. Participants met with a forester who introduced the principles of sustainable forest management and explained the role of the State Forests in nature conservation. The program also included field activities addressing the impact of human activity on the environment, as well as observation of natural animal habitats. The workshops concluded with the creation of the “Bieszczady Nature Atlas” – artistic and educational projects summarizing the knowledge and experiences gained.
The three-day stay in the Bieszczady Mountains allowed participants not only to acquire knowledge about nature, but above all to experience it in practice. The children learned to recognize plant and animal species, understand the principles of environmental protection, and cooperate within a group. The workshops demonstrated that the Bieszczady Mountains are a unique educational space where learning is combined with direct contact with nature, and theory with practice.
Project value: EUR 1,816,847.22
Funding: EUR 1,632,618.93
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