The aim of the project is the sustainable management of genetic resources of maize and perennial wheatgrasses through the evaluation, systematisation, and preservation of old local varieties and wild relatives, providing a wide genetic base of source material adapted to climate change and offering potential for ensuring food security.

The object of study includes economically important crops—old local varieties and populations and wild relatives of maize (Tripsacum and Teosinte) and of forage wheatgrasses: perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis L.), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), red fescue (Festuca rubra L.), festulolium (Festulolium), orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata L.), crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum Gaertn.), and desert wheatgrass (Agropyron desertorum (Fisch.) Schultes). The implementation of this project will achieve the following results:

Enrichment of collections of old varieties and wild relatives of cultivated plants; Creation of a database with taxonomic, ecogeographical, and evaluative characteristics of the studied old varieties and wild relatives; Improving the efficiency of the breeding process and expanding genetic diversity by using old varieties and wild relatives of cultivated plants as source material.

The collected data and seed material from old varieties and wild relatives of cultivated plants will provide opportunities for their expanded use in future breeding programs. The development of this project will contribute to the implementation of Goal 13 of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity, namely the preservation of the genetic diversity of cultivated plants and their wild relatives, including species valuable from socio-economic and cultural perspectives, by developing and applying strategies to minimize genetic erosion and preserve their genetic diversity. By participating in the project as members of the team, the young scientists will acquire theoretical and practical skills in data collection, processing, and analysis, as well as plant material conservation, forming a basis for the development of their dissertations. They will gain knowledge and skills in project preparation and implementation and establish contacts with colleagues, which is essential for their professional growth. It is envisaged that the results of the project will form a substantial part of the dissertations of two PhD students—team members. The scientific results of this fundamental research will be significant for the National Strategy for the Development of Scientific Research in the Republic of Bulgaria 2017–2030, as well as for addressing current societal challenges related to improving health and quality of life, food security, and environmental protection.