Regulation and Management of Forests in Bessarabia under Tsarist Administration (1812-1917)

Abstract

The regulation and management of forests in Bessarabia under Tsarist administration (1812-1917) were shaped by the broader economic, political, and social transformations following the region’s integration into the Russian Empire. After the annexation of Bessarabia in 1812, the forests were nationalized and placed under direct state control, becoming a crucial resource for both economic and military purposes. The Forest Regulations of 1832 established a legal framework governing the exploitation, preservation, and administration of forest resources. These policies led to the creation of a structured bureaucratic system tasked with overseeing forestry operations, monitoring timber trade, and ensuring compliance with imperial directives.

Throughout the 19th century, Bessarabia’s forests were subjected to extensive logging to support construction, furniture production, and exports, contributing significantly to the imperial economy. This intensified exploitation resulted in severe ecological consequences, including large-scale deforestation and resource depletion. Additionally, the enforcement of strict forestry regulations led to tensions between the Tsarist authorities and the local population, particularly among peasants who relied on the forests for firewood, grazing, and subsistence activities. The study of these regulatory policies provides valuable insight into the imperial approach to resource management and its broader socio-environmental implications, illustrating the intersection of governance, economic interests, and ecological sustainability in Bessarabia during the Tsarist period.