This project is co-financed by the European Union through
Natura 2000 ecological network Protected area under the Habitats Directive - BG0001021 "Mesta River"
Included in the list of protected areas in 2007; the zone area is 19401,69 ha of which in the territory of Bansko Municipality 7429,59 ha. Subject of conservation are 32 types of natural habitats, 9 species of invertebrates, 5 species of amphibians and reptiles, 3 species of fish, 16 species of mammals. The zone partially overlaps with protected area BG0002076 "Mesta" for wild birds protection.