By order of the Minister of Environment and Water Rositsa Karamfilova, Rumen Kolchagov has been appointed director of the “Rila National Park” Directorate, effective as of July 7, 2026.

Rumen Kolchagov is a forestry engineer and conservationist with more than 26 years of professional experience dedicated to the protection of one of Bulgaria’s most valuable natural treasures - the Rila National Park. Over the years, his professional career has spanned all key aspects of park management - from day-to-day fieldwork and monitoring compliance with regulations in the protected area to participating in the development of strategic documents for nature conservation.

For Rumen Kolchagov, protecting Rila is not just a profession, but a long-standing personal mission. The experience he has accumulated over the decades, his in-depth knowledge of the mountain, and his dedication to preserving its natural wealth form a solid foundation for the future development of the Rila National Park Directorate.

Prior to his appointment as director, he served as chief inspector at the directorate. As head of the Control Department and manager of operations in the “South” sector, he gained extensive practical experience in organizing control activities, combating poaching, protecting biodiversity, and coordinating field teams. He has detailed knowledge of the park’s areas, their specific characteristics, and the challenges involved in managing Bulgaria’s largest national park.

He graduated from the Higher Institute of Forestry with a degree in Forestry and a specialization in environmental protection.

His professional experience also includes working as an expert in conservation and scientific activities at the Pirin National Park Directorate, where he participated in the development of studies related to ecosystem conservation.

As an expert, Kolchagov has also participated in the preparation of strategic documents for the management and conservation of protected areas, as well as in conservation projects related to the protection of rare animal species. His many years of field observations and practical experience contribute to the development of sustainable approaches to the management of mountain ecosystems.

Outside of his professional activities, Rumen Kolchagov is an active community leader in Bansko. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the “Vihren 1925” Tourist Association, and his wildlife photographs are well known both within the conservation community and among mountain enthusiasts.