In the forests of northern Albania, mushrooms grow quietly beneath trees, leaves, and moss. They appear after rain, change with the seasons, and often go unnoticed. Yet in protected areas like Kelmend, mushrooms are signs of healthy forests and an important part of local life. Through the project “Sustainable Use of Natural Resources for Transboundary Socio-Economic Development of Protected Areas”, CNVP Albania is helping bring more attention to these small but valuable forest species.

Mushrooms play a key role in nature. Many live in close connection with trees, helping them take nutrients and water from the soil. Others break down fallen leaves and wood, keeping the forest clean and alive. When mushrooms disappear, it often means the forest is under stress.

For local families, mushrooms are more than part of the landscape. They are collected carefully and used in traditional cooking, adding flavor to soups, pies, and sauces. In good seasons, mushrooms also provide extra income, especially in mountain villages where work options are limited. With the right knowledge, they can become high-value products for visitors and local markets.

At the same time, mushrooms face challenges. Many species in Albania’s protected areas have never been properly studied. Some are collected without enough knowledge, which can be dangerous for health. Climate change, forest pressure, and uncontrolled harvesting also threaten their future. These risks show why mushrooms need both protection and smart use.

The project supports local partners and experts like “Developing Resources” Association, to better understand which mushrooms grow in areas like Lëpushë and Vermosh, how they can be collected safely, and how their value can be increased through training, education, and culinary promotion. Nature trails and learning activities help visitors see mushrooms not just as food, but as part of forest biodiversity.

Mushrooms are not plants, but fungi, and the part we see is only a small piece of a much larger system hidden underground. Their presence tells a story about clean environments and balanced ecosystems. By protecting mushrooms, we protect forests, traditions, and livelihoods.

Sometimes the smallest forest treasures have the biggest impact, but with the support of Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust (PONT), we take the time to notice them.