This project is co-financed by the European Union through 
Natura 2000 Ecological Network Protected Area under the Birds Directive - BG0002063 "Western Rhodopes"
Included in the list of protected zones adopted in 2007 and in 2013 the protected area is increased up to 133384,78 ha, of which 669.50 ha are on the territory of Bansko Municipality. The aim is to protect 24 species of birds and their habitats. The zone partially overlaps with zone BG0001030 "Rodopi - West" for the conservation of natural habitats and of wild flora and fauna.