Blanický mill near Vlašim will be transformed into an ecological education center

Vlašim (Benešov area) - The Czech Union for Nature Conservation (ČSOP) is preparing the reconstruction of Blanický, or Kups' Mill, near Vlašim. It is set to be transformed into an ecological education center. It will offer nature stays for children combined with educational programs. The estimated costs for the reconstruction of the building are 50 million crowns, said Karel Kříž from the Vlašim ČSOP organization to ČTK.
    The mill is owned by the city of Vlašim, which has already approved a future purchase agreement with the nature conservators for the site. The building is in a state of disrepair and needs a complete renovation. It has partially been used for several years by the civic association Strom. They have a base there for their summer children's camps, which are held in the nearby meadow. According to Kříž, there will also be a place for them in the new center.
    "The project for the reconstruction could be completed next year. Then we will apply for a grant from the European Union," added Kříž. If everything goes smoothly, the facility could be finished by the end of 2012 or in the first half of 2013. However, according to Kříž, the reconstruction alone is not enough. It is also necessary to find partners and structure the center's activities in a way that it can cover its operating costs.
    ČSOP Vlašim is also preparing the reconstruction of its wildlife rescue station. A small zoo corner and an ecological center will remain in its current location in the center of Vlašim. The medical and rehabilitation part of the facility will be moved outside of town to Kups' Mill. The costs for the reconstruction, construction, and equipment of the station are about 60 million crowns. Of that, 87 percent will be covered by a European grant, with the remainder coming from the Central Bohemia Region, Lesy ČR, the city of Vlašim, and various small sponsors and donors. Construction is expected to begin at the end of January, with completion anticipated within a year and a half.