Tehran – Iran will move forward with its Modern Forestry Plan only after thorough scientific review and full coordination among relevant authorities, with no project permitted to jeopardize the country's forests, Agriculture Minister Gholamreza Nouri said.

 

Speaking at a meeting with senior officials from the Natural Resources Organization, Nouri stressed that forestry initiatives must be based on rigorous expert assessments, warning that even minor errors could have lasting consequences for the nation's ecosystems.

 

He said effective forest governance depends on meaningful public participation, emphasizing that local communities and forest residents - not just contractors - should play a central role in protecting and managing forest resources.

 

Nouri also announced that the Zagros Forest Management Program has been finalized and will be issued following minor administrative revisions.

 

Citing rising temperatures and denser vegetation after favorable rainfall this year, the minister warned of an elevated wildfire risk and urged provinces to maintain full preparedness.

 

He underscored that public awareness, community involvement, and rapid initial response are critical to minimizing damage to Iran's forests and rangelands.