Cutting down trees on Sihoť Island postponed

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Gabriela Matečná ordered an immediate cessation of felling trees on the Danube river island of Sihot, according to the TASR press agency. This is a significant, strategic and the oldest potable water source in Slovakia. The state-run forestry company Lesy SR would like to cut down 50 percent of its trees over the next decade. "I instructed its Director General to halt any activities there ... however, I must openly say that this is only until we manage to find a common solution", said Matečná. She has already ordered an analysis of the situation. "I hope that those who have something to say to this - forestry, water-management and environmental experts - will choose a solution to the benefit of this locality", added Matečná. Sihoť has been used for water supply purposes since 1886 for Bratislava's boroughs of Karlova Ves, Devin and Old Town. Thanks to the geological composition of its land, the quality of the water from Sihoť is reportedly among the best not only in Slovakia but in all of Central Europe.