30 000 hectares of forests perished in Tatarstan in December because of icing

Weather conditions emerged in Tatarstan in December 2010 led to forests destruction on the area of more than 30 000 hectares. Such data were announced at session of RT Cabinet presidium held by RT Prime Minister Ildar Khalikov. Liquidation of implications of major icing in Tatarstan forests was the main topic of discussion.

By words of Head of RT government 2010 year was not easy for republic in terms of weather conditions. Tatarstan overcame draught, difficult fire-hazardous situations and icing. “In all cases existing reserve allowed to smooth implications of such complicated situation. Ministries and heads of municipal formations worked intensively enough. Though we will have repercussions for many years”, - RT PM said. In comparison with neighbors Tatarstan is a forest-poor region - only 17,4 % of the territory is covered with forests. By words of Prime Minister, enlargement of forest area is one of priority objectives for republic. Particularly, to realize the task, a large forest cultivation complex is being constructed in Sabinski region.

Head of RT government reminded that 2011 was announced the international year of forest. The world day of growing forest plantation will be held on May, 14. Ildar Khalikov urged participants of the session to take part in this action.

Minister of forestry Nail Magdeev informed that as a result of icing forest plantation at the area of 30 000 hectares perished in December 2010.

RT Prime Minister reminded that the raised issue is a priority one at federal level, too. Thus, Ildar Khalikov asked all ministries to put much emphasis on actions connected with forest protection.