“GREEN MOUNTAIN” A Sustainable Development Model for Green Mountain Areas:
Existing Situation Analysis (ESA) report
Green Mountain Project - A Sustainable Development Model for Green Mountain Areas: Existing Situation Analysis (ESA) report
INDEX
INTRODUCTION 3 1 ESA report ROMANIA 4 1.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 5 1.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 12 1.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 24 AND PLANS 1.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 31 RAISING 1.5 CONCLUSIONS 36 2 ESA report SLOVAKIA 37 2.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 38 2.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 45 2.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 55 AND PLANS 2.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 62 RAISING 3 ESA report BULGARIA 69 3.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 70 3.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 75 3.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 81 AND PLANS 3.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 88 RAISING 3.5 CONCLUSIONS 93 4 ESA report HUNGARY 94 4.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 95 4.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 99 4.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 107 AND PLANS 4.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 115 RAISING 4.5 CONCLUSIONS 120 5 ESA report BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA 121 5.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 122 5.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 127 5.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 132 AND PLANS 5.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 139 RAISING
Green Mountain Project - A Sustainable Development Model for Green Mountain Areas: 1 Existing Situation Analysis (ESA) report
5.5 CONCLUSIONS 141 6 ESA report MONTENEGRO 142 6.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 143 6.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 149 6.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 155 AND PLANS 6.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 160 RAISING 6.5 CONCLUSIONS 164 7 ESA report AUSTRIA 165 7.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 166 7.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 170 7.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 176 AND PLANS 7.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 180 RAISING 7.5 CONCLUSIONS 184 8 ESA report ITALY 185 8.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 186 8.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 192 8.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 202 AND PLANS 8.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 211 RAISING 8.5 CONCLUSIONS 216 9 ESA report Greece 218 9.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 219 9.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 228 9.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 235 AND PLANS 9.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 240 RAISING 9.5 CONCLUSIONS 244
9 ESA report Ukraine 245 9.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY 246 9.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS 252 9.3 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 257 AND PLANS 9.4 METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING & AWARENESS 263 RAISING 9.5 CONCLUSIONS 266
Green Mountain Project - A Sustainable Development Model for Green Mountain Areas: 2 Existing Situation Analysis (ESA) report
INTRODUCTION The present Existing Situation Analysis (ESA) report has been realised in the framework of the European funded project called “A Sustainable Development Model for Green Mountain Areas” (GREEN MOUNTAIN). 11 partner organisations coming from 9 European countries (Italy, Greece, Bulgaria, Hungary, Austria, Romania, Slovakia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro) have established a platform to exchange information and knowledge, and to develop methods and good practices with the aim to develop and transfer, a Sustainable Development and Management Model which can provide for an integrated strategy to enhance the valorisation and preservation of natural and protected mountain areas. Exchange of information has been the first project activity among Green Mountain partners. The aim of this activity is to share information, knowledge and experience regarding partners’ mountain territories (territorial system, economic aspects, management plans, methods and practices in use, etc.) and with regards to the 3 thematic project areas. This activity has been realised with the help of the present ESA report to which each partner concerned has contributed. The Existing Situation Analysis is a key activity since it defines the starting point from which possible solutions must have their origin. The ESA is therefore an important means, not only with the aim to share information, knowledge and experience among partners but it is also a key activity for the territory itself as it will allow to identify the state of the art, existing problems, needs, challenges and opportunities. The Existing Situation Analysis activity will thus help to identify the exact territorial development needs while at the same time it also will ensure a correct and appropriate development approach with regards to the subsequent activities of the Green Mountain project: development of the common Sustainable Management and Development Model, drawing up of the Management Plans, setting up of awareness raising activities, implementation of pilot activities, etc. The present Existing Situation Analysis concentrates on 3 thematic areas, considered to be the fundamental key elements for how to protect, develop and preserve natural and protected areas and on which the Sustainable Development and Management Model should be built on: Identification of economic sustainable activities able to conciliate growth with nature preservation Development of coordinated and integrated policies and management plans/strategies Methods and strategies for effective information, training and awareness raising targeting politicians and decision-makers, as well as economic actors and the public The local and regional partner authorities involved have analysed their respective territories at local or regional level, whereas the analysis of the National Forest Administration- Romsilva focuses on the 2 National Parks that are involved in the Green Mountain project. The analysis carried out by the Slovak Environmental Agency focuses on the PPP Horehron, chosen to be a Model Area within the Green Mountain project.
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1. ESA report ROMANIA
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1.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
1.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. The relevant legislations in force in our country regarding protected areas is represented by acts, Government decisions, Government Emergency Ordinances and Minister orders, as follows: GEO No. 57/2007 regarding natural protected areas, natural habitats, flora and wild fauna preserving, with the subsequent completions and changes, approved through law No. 49/2011 (Protected areas law) Law No. 265/2006 regarding Environmental protection Law No.5/2000 regarding approval of the planning National - Section III - protected areas Ordinance No. 552/2003 regarding the interior zoning of national and natural parks and the establishment of their administrations Ordinance No. 776/2007 regarding the declaration of Sites of Community Importance as part of European ecological network Natura 2000 Decision No 1284/2007 regarding the declaration of Special birds and fauna protected areas as part of European ecological network Natura 2000 Government decisions No.2151/2004, No 1581/2005, No 1143/2007 regarding the establishment of protected natural areas system for new areas Government decisions No.121/2010 regarding the establishment of protected natural area for Natural Park of Cefa Hunting law – 2008 Environment law – 2006 Forest code - 2008 Law of the mountain (2004) Agricultural Intervention and Payments Agency- support payments, traces livestock and carries out inspections. (Calimani National Park) Other legislative agreements on sustainable integrated development and nature conservation: The Framework Convention on the Protection and Sustainable Development of the Carpathians (2003)1, its Programme of work and Biodiversity Protocol (2008), resulting in additional initiatives in which Romania is involved: o The Danube-Carpathian Programme (WWF-DCP) o The Carpathian Network of Protected Areas (CNPA)
1 http://www.carpathianconvention.org/status.htm
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o The Carpathian Ecoregion Initiative (CERI) – an umbrella NGO including private and public sector members form the Carpathian countries o The Mountain Forum in Romania
1.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. Romania is located in the south-eastern part of the Central Europe and is known both as a Carpathian country and the “country centred by the Carpathians and bounded southward by the Danube”, famous for the wide variety of natural endowment and beauties. The Carpathian Mountains stretch the country along 650km while the Danube River drenches the land on 1075km. Romania’s relief is characterized by a balanced distribution of areas according on their elevations (33% plains and riparian areas; 36% hills and plateaus and 31% mountains) as well as the concentric layout, like an amphitheatre of the natural relief areas. Romania has a mild-continental climate but the Carpathians Mountains chain and the Black Sea favour its interference with the central-European climate in the centre and the western part of the country, south European in southwest and Pontic in south-east (Danube Delta and the Black Sea shore). For this reason both in the flora and fauna one can find, along with European and continental species arctic species, boreal species, alpine, central-European, Mediterranean and Balkan species. The large rivers- Somes, Mures, Jiu, Olt, Arges, Dambovita, Ialomita, Siret and Prut and so forth –have their river courses on the north towards south and from the west to the east and are collected by the river Danube (excepting the rivers Mures and Somes that flow westward). Vegetation depends on the relief, the climate and soil conditions being characterized by altitudinal belts. From the geo-botanical view point, Romania belongs to the central- European region. The actual vegetation is a result of vegetation emerging in the past, closely connected with the geological and climate changes, as well as with relief and soil types. Romania’s territory is divided horizontally in two large zones: steppe and forests, and vertically there is the alpine region. The steppe zone comprises steppe sub region which includes forested or non-forested areas and silvo-steppe sub-region. The forest region comprises the sub regions of oak species, beech and coniferous species. The alpine region consists of the inferior alpine sub-region and the superior alpine region. The transition from one region to another one is a gradually, varies according to the ecological amplitude of species. They largest woodlands are to be found here, most of them being resinous forests. They are also rich in non-ferrous ores, coals, mineral waters and building rocks. The following national parks are to be found here: Rodnei, Calimani, Ceahlau and Cheile Bicazului, as well the natural park Vanatori-Neamt. Calimani National Park (CNP) covers the upper part of Calimani Mountains, Northern Romania. These mountains are the highest volcanic structures in East Carpathians.
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They are the junction between the historic regions of Transylvania, Bucowina and Moldavia, therefore the traditional life of locals includes elements from the 3 areas. The region is known for the beautiful and large valleys, covered with pastures and meadows. The spruce forests and mountain pine shrubs are the dominant plant communities at higher altitudes. The Tara Dornelor (in the north of CNP) area is located in the northern Carpathians (Romania), in the northern part of Calimani Mountains and, in terms of tourism it is already well known at national level due to the good tradition and fame of Vatra Dornei as a SPA and ski resort. Situated in the north-eastern part of Dornelor depression, Vatra Dornei town is the main social-economical centre polarizing the rest of the rural territory of the region. The area has also been made famous for the mineral water and the diary products having the brand of (La)Dorna, which earned their good position on the market due to their good quality related also to the quality of the natural environment (very good quality, traditionally managed pastures). Domogled Cerna Valley National Park is situated in the south-west part of Romania, in the south-west extremity of Southern Carpathians and includes an important geological phenomenon - Cerna’s fault in association with an original geographical conformation. It is the first national park from our country regarding the size of it, with a surface of 61.211 ha and the only one that includes an entire hydrographical basin not a single mountain massif. Cerna Valley is unique because, enroles totally in the mountain space and separates two different mountain lines. It is a typical longitudinal valley which follows the tectonic line between Vâlcan and Mehedinţi Mountains, on one side and Godeanu Massif and Cerna Mountains on the other side. The valley has the aspect of a huge defile with inaccessible gorges especially on the lower part. The numerous endokarst forms, with an exceptional scientific national and international value are also very important from the landscape point of view. The most popular caves are: Cloşani, Cioaca, Ion Bârzoni Cave, Sălitrari Cave and the ones near resort Băile Herculane, which are thermal caves, unique in Romania and very rare in the whole world, caves where environmental conditions are similar to the ones from tropical climate (350-450 C the air temperature). Due to biogeographic, biological, climatic conditions the national park preserves a very interesting and rich fauna. Here there are a lot of scientifically valuable species, some unique in the country and whole world, excelling in the diversity of insects. Owing to this huge biodiversity the entire surface of the park was declared SCI and SPA.
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1.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. The Romania’s Carpathians lie on about 55% of the area of the European Carpathians (204,700km2, 1500km length and up to 350 km width) and according to the geographical position they divide into The Southern Carpathians, Western Carpathians (in the West) and Eastern Carpathian Mountains (in the East).The Southern Carpathian Mountains is the most representative mountainous area of the Romanian Carpathian Mountains region, that singles out by massiveness and the highest peaks (Moldoveanu 2,544 m and Negoiu 2,535m). The Southern Carpathians, located in the South of the Carpathian Mountains are delimited in the East by the Prahova Valley and in the West by the Cerna Valley and the Timis Valley. The national parks of Romania are presented according to their location in the Southern, Western and Eastern Carpathian Mountains. In the Southern Carpathian Mountains the following national parks Piatra Craiului, Cozia, Retezat, Domogled-Valea Cernei are located as well as the national park Gradistea Muncelului-Cioclovina. The western Carpathians are located between theDanube River to the south and Barcaului valley (a tributary of the Crisul Repede valley) to the north. To the east they are bind by the Cerna Valley and to the west by the western hills. These mountains are the the smallest and the most fragmented ones; actually they form small groups of mountains, split apart by large valleys and corridors. As for the vegetation, they are covered with large forests, especially beech woodlands and their summits are covered by pasturelands. In this region there are two national parks (Cheile Nerei- Beusnita and Semenic – Cheile Carasului) and two natural parks (Portile de FIer and Apuseni). Eastern Carpathians. This branch of the Carpathian Mountains goes from the northern Romanian boundary (Tisa river) to Prahova valley. To the west they are adjacent to the Transylvania depression, to the south and the east with the Moldavian plateau and sub- Carpathians hills to the southwest with the Southern Carpathians and to the northeast with the river Bacau, tributary to the Crisul Repede river. They have a largest share of Romania Carpathians, they are middle in term of elevation, are divided by many valleys and crossed by some passes such as: Prislop, Rotunda, Setnez, Bicaz, Tusnad and Oituz. The largest woodlands are to be found here, most of them being resinous forests. By Order of Minister No.1964/2007 regarding the establishment of a system protected natural area sites of Community importance as part of Natura 2000 in Romania we have a total of 273 sites of Community importance which represents 13.21% of the country. Also, by Order of Minister No.1284/2007 regarding the establishment of Special Bird Protection Areas declared as part of Natura 2000, in Romania we have a total of 108 sites of Special Bird Protection Areas which represents 11,85% of country. The protected areas in the region are: Calimani National Park, which is also a N2000 site, the N2000 peatbogs: Saru Dornei, Poiana Stampei& Romanesti Calimani National Park was established in 2000 and covers just over 24,000 hectares in northern Romania, encompassing the main volcanic zone of the Eastern Carpathian Mountains. The Park is known for its unique geological features, and is home to many large carnivores (including brown bears and wolves, lynxes and wild cats) and birds (such as
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peregrine falcons, cappercaillie, black grouse and less- spotted eagle). The Park also contains a number of rare plant species and large areas of old-growth forest. The most important habitats are those of alpine and boreal heaths, bushes with mountain pine and Rhododendron myrtifolium, spruce and arolla pine forests. In 2007, it became part of the N2000 network, as part of Calimani- Gurghiu site. The peatbogs Saru Dornei, Romanesti and are included in the Romanian protected areas network and N2000. Poiana Stampei was established as scientific reserve in 1955, and is considered the largest olygothrophic peat bog in Romania. The bog lays on 400 ha and is surrounded by a Norway spruce forest, as a buffer zone. It shelters rare plant species important for Romanian biodiversity, and the bog represents the geographic limit in southeast Europe for a number of these species. All the three peatbogs include algae communities, zooplankton and insects of scientific and ecological value. The importance of these peatbogs consists of: preventing floods during spring when snow is melting or rainy periods during summer when the water level of rivers nearby increase, as it retains large amounts of water and promote the gradual return of it to the landscape. They are bio-filters that purifies water and the peat mosses absorb carbon dioxide as they grow. In this way, carbon is locked into the body of the mosses as it turns to Each of the mountain ranges that surround Tara Dornelor has its own specific charm: Suhard with a relatively gentle ridge rarely traversed by hikers, maintains intense pastoral activity in summer and offers spectacular views towards all its neighbouring mountain ranges: Bârgău, Rodna Giumalău Rarău, Pietrosul Bistritei and Călimani. Giumalăul has an extensive network of tourist trails, at the same time being the most accessible mountain range in the area. Furthermore the Giumalău mountain lodge offers the possibility of overnight accommodation in this sub alpine region. Pietrosul Bistritei, a mysterious mountain explored by only a few hikers, descends steeply from its ridge into the Zugreni Gorge and offers a hiking experience in a wilderness almost untouched by human hands. The vast horseshoe-shaped crater of the volcanic mountains of Calimani, has a diameter of approximately 10 km, being one of the largest in Europe. Its imposing ridge consists of several lofty peaks of over 2000 m. Laid out over the upper part of the volcanic mountain range, the Călimani National Park protects valuable habitats and ecosystems on its territory: forests of Spruce with Swiss Pine; thickets of Mountain Pine with Rhododendron; meadows of Gentians, Violets, Common Tormentil, Bluebells, etc. The Swiss Pine (Pinus cembra), is a relic of earlier glaciation and can still be found in Romania, only in a few isolated areas of the Oriental and Southern Carpathians. The extraordinary group of rocks that makes up the 12 Apostles Reserve provokes the traveller's imagination with strange rock forms as in a fairy-tale world, bearing picturesque names like "Mosul" ("The Old Man"), "Maresalul" ("The Marshall"), "Mucenicul" ("The Martyr") and "Gusterul" ("The Lizard"). These geological formations, likened to megalithic structures, are the result of different forms of erosion on the volcanic conglomerates. The Tinovul Mare – Poiana Stampei and Tinovul Şaru Dornei Nature Reserves care for acid marshland, sterile environments with layers of peat and poor vegetation specific to these conditions, with stands of pine, spruce and dwarf birch, thick layers of moss, and shrubs of bilberry and cranberry that form a landscape more typical of the Siberian tundra. Tinovul Mare (681,8 ha) is considered to be the largest natural reserve of peat in Romania.
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In the Domogled Cerna Valley National Park we can find a significant area of the Pinus Nigra ssp.banatica , an endemic species, which is famous for its resistance and adaptation in very hard conditions. Pinus nigra ssp.banatica extends on large and continuous surfaces, creating spectacular landscapes. We can see this species on steep rocky structures which introduces the turists into a fairy tale with a somptuous image. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park represents an unique sample of Carpathian and European beech, from the lowest altitudes until the limit of the forest with the Alpine goals.
1.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). Domogled Cerna Valley National Park adjoins with three natural protected areas, as follows: Retezat National Park, Mehedinti Table-land Geopark and ROSCI0129 The North of West Gorj. The limit between our park and this natural protected areas is situated in the mountain area. The preservation and local communities development objectives are common. Between these administrations there is a closely cooperation, especially with Retezat National Park, as the legislation and the managing way is the same with ours. Calimani National Park have like managerial objectives: biodiversity conservation and ecological tourism. Through this objectives,we have collaborations with other parks, inside National Forest Administration,and outside with the other administrations(Ceahlau Park-for example). The local, national and regional stakeholders are represented in the Consultative Council of Administration, which has a consultative role for the management process.
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1.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The major problems affecting this natural protected area, as well as challenges and opportunities, are: 1. Uncontrolled tourism - at present the park has a high accessibility level, which may be a potential danger towards biodiversity, because of the existing risk of an unorganised and chaotic tourism development 2. The lack of a communication system and public awareness - the lack of the information centers, where local communities and tourists can be informed about the importance of this natural protected area 3. Uncontrolled buildings which don’t take into account the traditional aspect of the area 4. Poaching - the poor economical situation, the lack of public awareness systems and the standing need of resources can lead to a high level of poaching 5. The overgrazing is a major problem because of the loss in what concerns the biodiversity and the invasion of some plant species which aren’t consumed by animals, eg Nardus stricta, Rumex alpinus, Urtica dioica. 6. Cutting junipers for fire and for grasslands expansion 7. The fires - naturals or caused by humans, are one of the most important problems which affects the landscape . On the surface of the park there was a natural fire, in 2000, which affected 90 ha of forest from Domogled massif. 8. The existent hydrotechnical constructions affect directly the aquatic biodiversity of the area, but also the soil and the terrestrial ecosystems. 9. The low capacity of managing the protected areas from what concerns the features and equipments. 10. Illegal forest exploits. Calimani National Park Aging in human population Lack of jobs (mining closure, forest management which were the main income) Low price for milk (for small farms, this are the only income) Changing in pasture composition due to grazing decrease Lack of infrastructure Rural tourism Traditional crafts and food
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1.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
1.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The main activities of local communities are: Raising animals (livestock) - the main traditional occupation of the people from Cerna’s basin. In high areas with alpine goals there are a lot of sheepfolds inhabited only in summer, during the grazing Exploitation and wood processing - activities that benefits both economic agents and local population Tourism - which has became once with the establishment of the park, one of the main activities regarding the development of local economy Calimani National Park CNP includes the highest part of the mountain and its border is located at 15-25 km away from human settlements, fact which restricts the interactions between its area and the area of interests of the local communities. Most of the area inside the park is represented by spruce forest (67%), along with mountain and subalpine pastures (32%). Calimani National Park has approximately 52% of its area covered by state forest (totally 84% state property), the rest being owned mainly by local administrations (managed by the state forest administrations) and by the private forest administrations established by the local councils and pastures (which are managed under the authority of the local councils by land-users, by contract).
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According to the national law the national parks in Romania have 3 types of internal zones with a corresponding different land-use regime: - The special conservation areas (the most strict, where ecosystems are preserved in their natural status, for conservation purposes and only research, educational and controlled ecotourism activities are permitted); - The buffer zone (where some controlled wood-cutting, according to the forestry management plan, some grazing and minor activities concerning the development of tourism are possible), - The sustainable conservation areas, more permissive to human activities but which are planned in accordance with the conservation objectives having a primary role. Given its restrictive regime and its primary objectives of conservation the national park is not directly interested to support human development activities. An exceptional case is that of the naturally expanding forests due to the sub-grazing which is determined by the lack of effectiveness in this sector. Therefore, since the natural expansion of forest is done to the detriment of some pastures which are of interest for conservation, the park becomes directly interested to support these activities. One opportunity is that of the subsidies offered by the APIA – the agency for Payments and Interventions in Agriculture. Another priority of the park is that of providing education and interpretation for a sustainable and responsible tourism. In the same time, inventorying and assessing the biodiversity of pastures and forest ecosystems are amongst the future priorities of the Park Administration. The potential for ecotourism in Tara Dornelor area and Calimani National Park Hiking Hiking is a good opportunity for active relaxation, for getting acquainted with the area, and for observing nature. Whether you are in Vatra Dornei or in any other village in the area, you can choose to spend a few hours or a few days exploring the mountains. If you are suitably equipped and have a good map you can venture alone. Otherwise you can be guided by your guesthouse host, or you can call one of the local guides who will lead you on mountain trails and will share stories and secrets that never lose their charm and uniqueness. Nordic Walking For those who know and love this sport, in Vatra Dornei six Nordic walking trails have been established, with lengths of between 2 and 12.1 km, and differences in level of between 39 and 464m. River Rafting Spring is the ideal season for river rafting. The River Bistrita is one of the few rivers in the country that offer the right conditions for this activity, the sections suitable for this sport reaching grade 3 of difficulty on a scale of 1 to 5 (with 5 as the most difficult).
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Horse Riding Horse riding in Tara Dornelor includes quite varied opportunities: for experienced riders; for occasional riders; for children and beginners. Experienced riders looking for a real adventure can try end-to-end trails, which cover long distances and require overnight stops in shelters, tents or even in the open, under the stars! In order to benefit from the warmth and comfort of a local guesthouse, out-and-back trails can be organised, which offer the possibility of visiting several different destinations in a tour of several days duration. Those passionate about riding but with less time available or less experience, can choose recreational trails (short tours of less than one day) from riding centers in Vatra Dornei, Dorna Arini and Neagra Şarului. Both for children and for those who have not yet tried this type of activity, there are opportunities of horse riding tours for beginners. The area also offer opportunties for mountain-biking and winter sports. In the alpine pasturelands,shepering is a permitted activity.Harvesting is permitted in the bufferzone of the Park. Agency for payment and interventions in agriculture are paying subsidies for pasturelands maintenance
1.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park Until now there haven’t been major initiatives and projects meant to value the local activities and products. The promotion of traditional activities, products and craftsmen from this area has been done through special events like: The Festival of Black Pine of Banat, The Festival of Lilac, local festivals, etc. The low level of local products promotion is caused by: - the lack of permanent spaces located in touristic areas, meant to promote and market this type of products - the lack of commercial agents with the necessary capacity to value this products - inaccessible roads that makes impossible the access in communities area - old local communities and endangered.
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Calimani National Park The ecotourism development initiative Due to its very high natural and cultural value of the area (natural and natural ecosystems traditionally managed, and an agro-pastoral mountain landscape, small nature protected areas and Călimani National Park at its southern part, well preserved traditions) and to the already existing threats (uncontrolled development, disappearing traditions and traditional occupations), an initiative was developed in order to support the ecotourism and the renewable energy in the area. The project was initiated by an NGO from the same county and the Association of Ecotourism in Romania (AER) was chosen as a partner responsible for the ecotourism component while Călimani National Administration was also invited as the main local partner. The main objectives of the project were to promote the concept of ecotourism, to offer training and develop a best practice guide for ecotourism development in the area and to develop a network of local eco-tourism products and services, as first step to the goal of developing the area as an ecotourism destination (further defined in the NOTE). In order to achieve these objectives, the project management team came with the idea of establishing a local ecotourism association. The initiative had an unexpected success, the stakeholders involved in the tourism sector proving their interest for it and the Association of Ecotourism Tara Dornelor was created. At the very beginning (also in order to avoid bureaucracy), a smaller number of stakeholders founded the Association, which includes one member from all of the most important actors on the local tourism “scene”: 2 guesthouses, 2 tourism services businesses organizing recreational activities in the park and the rest of the area, Călimani National Park Administration, the mountain rescue team, a mayoralty and a local consultant. The Association is going to be the management body of the future destination. In its very early phase of existence, the Association already: - defined criteria to get in the organization (based on the principles of ecotourism) - defined and is underway of creating a primary network of services AND criteria to get in the network; - a label for the network and criteria to get and use the label. - Was involved in the tourism zoning for the area In this context, a new opportunity and a frame (organizational, conceptual, etc) for the development of the area were created and many objectives remain open for the achievement of the commonly agreed goal of developing the destination. The logical framework will present the most important future objectives and possible steps to achieving the goal.
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Ecoturism in Dorna country- 12 Apostles trail Riding in the Carpathians-a riding tour inside a national park-as an ecotourismalternative for the development of communities around or within protected areas in Romania,in order to support nature conservation in the medium and long term. Festivals where craftsmen bring wood objects, craftswomen with painted eggs, housekeepers with food products: alpenrose liqueur, blueberry jam and liqueur, canned porcini and cantharells, smoked trout. Milk products Mineral waters (4 national brands>Bilbor, Stanceni, Dorna, Aqua Carpatica)
1.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park For having traditional products and activities it’s necessary to exist on the park’s surface these local communities, which have to be in a steady development. This aspect involves, first, the accessibility of the area where they live, rebuilding the existing roads and also developing an the activities of eco-tourism, so that the tourists can get to mountains areas and can benefit by these products. At present the number of locals is decreasing because the young are heading to the nearest cities. The administration’s initiatives are meant to obtain found to realize the accessibility of the area, the development of the eco-tourism and the establishment of visitors center, where these traditional products and activities can be promoted. Calimani National Park: Festivals where craftsmen bring wood objects, craftswomen with painted eggs, housekeepers with food products: alpenrose liqueur, blueberry jam and liqueur, canned porcini and cantharells, smoked trout. Milk products Mineral waters (4 national brands>Bilbor, Stanceni, Dorna, Aqua Carpatica)
1.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The stakeholders that should be involved in the frameworks of policies and sustainable activities from the surface of the park are: - local public authorities because they represent the local decision factors which can help directly the local communities through infrastructure development, bringing investors to this area, tax cuts, etc
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- forest administrators because wood exploitation is a traditional activity and also a very important source of incomes - natural or legal persons which have properties in the park - Agency for Payments and Intervention in Agriculture can help directly by giving substantial payments to landowners - Tourism Agencies which can involve by creating touristic programs to promote the area - NGO’s, etc. Calimani National Park Representative organizations for Dornelor Area Actors involved in the management of nature PAs: - The PA custodians: Regional (County) Forestry Office in Suceava and a local NGO managing the nature reserves and Natura 2000 sites - Calimani National Park Administration manages 3 other Natura2000 sites Actors involved in issues concerning local and regional development, focused on the mountain area: - A ROMONTANA branch – national NGO member of the EUROMONTANA Association - CEFIDEC – a governmental organization providing training and consultancy on rural tourism, mountain agriculture, etc - 3 NGOs active in the field of environmental protection and active tourism - 1 NGO involved in the ecotourism development in which the National Park Administration is member - Other NGOs active in the field of cultural activities - GAL Bazinul Dornelor – a local action group established in the framework of the LEADER integrated rural development initiative - Local Public Administrations - The local tourism business The stakeholders for the management of Calimani National Park Sl. Sector Level Stakeholder Comments No. Mayor Executive role (assisted by the executive body 1 consisting in the mayoralty staff)
2 Vice Mayor Part of the executive body
Local Mayoralties Local Council Approves and takes the decisions (decisional 3 /commune body) level
4 Secretary Approve the legal conditions
GAL (Local Action Group) Public-private partnership, 5 under the EC LEADER Program
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6 Local schools 7 Police Specialized governmental institution in charge with mountain patrolling and public security in 8 The Mountain Gendarmerie the touristic areas. It functions under the Ministry of Administration and Interior (MAI) Mountain Rescue Team The one in Vatra Dornei is under the County (SALVAMONT) Vatra Dornei Council of Suceava 9 Toplita and Mures County The one in Mures is under the County Council of Mures
Museums (Natural Science 10 PUBLIC and Ethnographic Museums in SECTOR Vatra Dornei ) SC Min Bucovina SA Vatra Mining company functioning under the Ministry 11 Dornei of Economy, Trade and Business Environment Training and Innovation Under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural 12 Center in the Carpathians Development (MADR) (CEFIDEC) Vatra Dornei Established in 2007, subordinated to the MADR, Agency for Payments and manages the European funds for the 13 Interventions in Agriculture implementation of the measures financed (APIA) through the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (FEGA) 14 Forestry Districts (OS) 15 Prefectures Represents the Government at county level 16 County Councils (CC) Incl. the President of the CC The Forest Control Body Under the Ministry of Environment and Forest 17 (ITRSV) (MMP) Local Environment Agencies Territorial unit of the National Environmental 18 (APM) Agency (under the MMP), functioning at county level County Inspectorates for Under the Ministry of Education, Research, 19 County Education Youth and Sports 20 Local Public Forestry Districts local districts, under the county directions and 21 (OS) the NFA Environment Control Body County level units under the MMP 22 (GNM) County Public Forestry County level directions under the NFA 23 Direction (DS) Regional units coordinating the APMs Regional Environmental 24 (functioning at development region level, under Agency (ARPM) Region the MMP) Regional units coordinating the GNMs 25 Regional Environmental (functioning at development region level, under
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Control Body the MMP) Non-governmental, non-profit bodies, established by law, responsible with the Regional Development management of funds for development in a 26 Agencies (ADR) development region; The Park is shared by three Development Regions (NE,C, NW), mostly in the Northeast Region, Ministry of Environment and 27 Forest (MMP) National Forest Authority The authority in charge with managing the state 28 (RNP) forest; under the MEF Ministry of Regional Nation 29 Development and Tourism (MDRT) Ministry of Agriculture and 30 Rural Development (MADR) 31 Universities
1 Logging companies Fruit and mushroom Herbs are also collected, but on a very low level, 2 collectors and not for profit purposes PRIVATE 3 Local level Guesthouses SECTOR 4 Tour-operators 5 Tourism agencies 6 Land owners
1 CIVIL Local citizens Citizens in the local communities SOCIETY AER (The Association of Environmental, Ecotourism and Conservation 2 Ecotourism in Romania), NGOs Brasov (NON- PROFIT ProPark, Brasov (The BODIES National Association for National Parks 3 and offering training programs for NGOs) protected area practitioners) WWF Romania (Bucharest) 4 and WWF-DCP (Brasov) 5 ClubSpeo, Regional 6 Tasuleasa Social Asociatia Proprietarilor de 7 Padure Panaci, Saru Dornei, Dorna Arini Local FAMD (The Foundation for 8 Mountain Agriculturers) Asociatia pentru Conservarea 9 Vietii Salbatice in Calimani
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10 Dorna EcoActiv AETD (Asociatia de Ecoturism 11 Tara Dornelor)
12 ROMONTANA
Local Environment Protection Agencies (regulations) Environment Guard (legislation control) NGOs (N2000 sites management) Local administrations (N2000 sites management) National Forest Administration (parks administration and Regional Forest Authorities
1.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis) Domogled Cerna Valley National Park Strong points: - the availability of the town-halls to collaborate in projects - the successfully running of some projects - the existence of priority species and habitats (Black Pine of Banat forests - Pinus nigra ssp. banatica, sessile forest - Quercus petraea, hornbeam forests - Carpinus betulus) Weak points: - poorly informed population - environmental degradation and limited subsistence sources - insufficient infrastructure - insufficient environmental education Opportunities: - the existence of tv programs which bring informations about nature and it’s importance - protecting natural values through natural reservations - the existence of valuable traditions - the perpetuation of cultural and historical values - the increasing interest of universities, NGO’s, etc. - the development of a more responsible mentality towards nature
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Threats: - imperfect legislation - reduced means to impose compliance with laws regarding protected areas. Calimani National Park
Weaknesses Strenghts Threats Opportunities Objectives
High % of Increasing Focusing on the formation, The migration Demographic births and migration of Possibilities for qualification and emplyment of youth and issues number of youth qualified training of young population in aging youngsters population development activities
Increasing rate Increasing of percentage of The increasing unemplyment the population Innovating the social Occupations The rigid quality and due to the engaged in services through pilor and labor labour market developement of decline of environmental projects health service local economic protection activities activities
Poor access to the internal and external Good quality market for the staple at a low The development of a local products price quality brand for food The lack of and bad products and tourism The certified Some local quality of local Possibilities for the products production quality and old brands already governance development of system technologies marketing the system brands The sustainable valuation of in use area (Dorna, local forest and non-timber (lack of LaDorna, Aqua products transparency, Carpatica) participaction, dialogue and partnership)
The inefficient The companies use of local coming from Funding for The existence resources and outside the environmental Focus on ecotourism and of CNP and the Environment the high area issues and existing public awareness ecological local potential NGOs irresponsible Strategic projects on energy foot-print for ecotourism on their Deforestation impact
Some The innovation of local The extinction traditions are The abandon Fuding products, rebuilding the Cultural of tradional still preserved of traditions The demand on the local identity by education heritage values and due to the amongst tourism market for and supporting the local knowledge traditional way youngsters authentic products associations and the of living producers of handicrafts
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The lack of access to credits for the key stakeholders Cooperation as the key to The local and of get out from isolation Young incomes are adequate Modern know-how population Training for basic based mainly policies, lack with a good Money flows from competences (foreign on the primary of vision and natural dinamic the emigrant languages, IT, marketing) Overall rural sector public population environment Local brands involvement, The development of a local Lack of lack of Funding industrial sector to value the infrastructure High potential cohesion programmes local resources (e.g. Local centers Relative between the furniture, food products, for training isolation actions of etc) different actors, lack of competence and issuficient interest
Lack of initiatives to creating products from milk, mushrooms and berries Unstable policies (Calimani National Park)
1.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories Domogled Cerna Valley National Park A practice initiative regarding economic activities and traditional products development is the organisation of an ecological education camp in the area of Prisacina and Dobraia hamlets (Cornreva village). The specific objectives are: - informing target groups about natural and cultural values from the park’s area - the knowledge and promotion of traditional activities and products through participation with the locals The main activities are: - the accessibility of these two isolated communities through rebuilding the existent road - the rehabilitation of two existent buildings for accommodation and a room for ecological education meetings - the participation with the locals at different traditional activities The target groups: - local communities from Prisacina and Dobraia hamlets
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- the students from the schools situated in or near the park - students from different universities - Romanian and foreign tourists The impact on biodiversity is an insignificant one, because the road and the buildings already exist and they are located in the sustainable development area of the park. The results consist in development of the communities from Dobraia and Prisacina, jobs for young, a more easier access in the area, partnerships with tourism agencies from Baile Herculane. Calimani National Park a) Horseback riding programmes, founder of Ecotourism Association of Tara Dornelor, founder of Local Action Group in Dorna Valley b) Ecotourism certification, Existing management plans for main protected areas c) 12 Apostles Thematic Trail, weekly meetings with students from local schools
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT POLICIES 1.3 AND PLANS
1.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The Administration of the park is a new structure established in 2003, which has been at the begining a sub-unit of Forestry Department Resita and in 2009 has become a unit with legal personality. The park’s administration consists of: Director Accountant Responsible with environmental education an public awareness IT Responsible Biologist Responsible for security and investments 8 rangers The human resources available in this moment for management activities are not enough for organisation and supervision for this type of activities, especially to control the field situation. The presence of many land owners inside the National Park generates a lot of problems in determining the ways and actions through which the main objective of the park, biodiversity preserving, will be realised. Informing and involving all the stakeholders in the planning and management process of the park is essential to ensure the accomplishment of park’s administration main objectives. The bodies involved in the planning and management of sensitive and protected areas are: The Scientific Council – formed by specialists from different areas, which can decide the type of activities is someone allowed to do on the surface of the park The Advisory Board which includes all the institutions and stakeholders interested on the management of the park, they contribute to the organisation and preserving of sensitive areas, but they can not decide toward the activities that can be done or not Environmental Protection Agencies issue the environmental permit regarding different activities Local communities interested in promoting natural and cultural values. Regarding the relationship with national level we mention that at present there are two contracts signed, one with The Environmental and Forest Ministry and the other one with National Forest Admnistration - Romsilva. The administration’s activity reports are approved by Environmental and Forest Ministry. For Calimani National Park:
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Local Environment Protection Agencies (regulations) Environment Guard (legislation control) NGOs (N2000 sites management) Local administrations (N2000 sites management) National Forest Administration (parks administration and Regional Forest Authorities).
1.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). Calimani National Park is on way to fully implement the management plan. Also, for the N2000 sites around the park, the Administration began the management plans procedures required. The main management objectives of the park: preserve the biodiversity and landscape; aware and help locals around the park on eco-friendly activities, promote ecotourism. Results: long term biodiversity composition, low-impact tourism, local aid in conservation efforts Opportunities: rich traditions and crafts, friendly people, rural landscapes Problems: no local initiatives, unstable legislation, corruption. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The management plan plays the role of a guide or a tool meant to support the park’s management team to work efficiently to realise a clear objective, permitting this way flexibility in the decision process. At present the management plan follows the approval stages according to the existent laws. The main objectives are: Conservation, protection and management biodiversity so that the current stage of plants and animals conservation stays at least at the present level Physical landscape and environmental management that involves maintaining the features that give particular character to main types of landscapes from the park Tourism management – necessary to quantify and control touristic activities and the types of tourism allowed on the surface of the park Supporting local communities and economy taking into account that underdevelopment of this two aspects could have unwanted consequences on the protected area Promoting the awareness and education as main tool for “building” a high ecological conscience both for locals and tourists
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Management of natural resources – from wood exploitation to pastures exploitation, etc. Management of park’s administration – strengthening the administrative capacity, establishment of appropriate mechanisms to continue specific activities and to promote closely partnerships with all the stakeholders Potential problems regarding the application of management plan are: the administration staff is not enough professionally prepared the current legislation that shows gaps the stakeholders are sometimes are careless towards environmental problems the lack of information and education
1.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. Calimani National Park: National level: Ministry of Environment and Forests / management plan approval; National Forest Administration- finances most of natural protected areas Regional level: LEPAs, Environment Guard Local level: partnerships with local authorities around the park, guesthouses, tour operators, NGOs, forest and pasture owners Consultative Council of the National Park Scientific Council serves as a scientific authority on the territory of protected area and is composed of researchers, scientists in various fields Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The National Park status offers his protected area the right and also the obligation of biodiversity preserving and sustainable tourism development, taking into account the uniqueness of landscapes and local communities. The management plan has been developed in collaboration with all the stakeholders involved in different activities conducted on the surface of the park, according with all the objectives that a national park should have. The plan is developed for a period of 5 years, the way it will be implemented will be a participatory one, all the stakeholders have the opportunity to express during the Advisory Board, regarding the implementation. The management has to be an integrated type, to ensure the correlation between all the dates and events related to the park. Generally, an important rule at the establishment of a national park is that shouldn’t exist any local communities inside it, but, as an exception to the rule inside Domogled Cerna Valley National Park there are small local communities which have traditional activities. The locals’ presence offers a good example of sustainable cohabitation with nature inside of a
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natural protected area. The loss of this archaic settlements with flair will cause unwanted changes towards landscapes and even ecosystems. The main stakeholders involved in the process of elaboration/review of the management plan, part of Advisory Board, can be grouped as follows: local public authorities (prefecture, county councils, town halls) are involved in territory planning, political decisions, different activities coordination, the awareness of landowners regarding the allowed activities from the park, absorption of EU funds forest administrators (Forestry Directorate, forest districts) are involved in respecting the laws regarding wood exploitation and also participate at the implementation of management plan on the surfaces covered with forests environmental protection agencies - verify the way that legislation is applied control institutions (Environmental Guard, Inspectorate for Forestry and Hunting) - they control and also apply sanctions for law violations universities that have as main objective environmental protection, involved in elaboration of different studies regarding the protected area tourism agencies involved in touristic programs meant to contribute to a sustainable and organised tourism development NGO’s involved in different activities for EU funds absorption
1.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The public participates and assesses the way of management plan’s implementation and also gives positive or negative ratings. The public is separated in two categories, as follows: the public present all the time in the park, involved in area’s specific activities the public that visits the protected area in some periods of the year, involved in special touristic activities Calimani National Park The level of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plan was not very high. Public was involved thru Consultative Council, that include many local/regional/national actors. Theirs role was consultative, to approve/or not, in different meeting, the activities propose in the management plan.
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1.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). Domogled Cerna Valley National Park Strong points: Scientific Council formed by specialists from different areas, which can decide the type of activities is someone allowed to do on the surface of the park The Advisory Board which includes all the institutions and stakeholders interested on the management of the park, they contribute to the organisation and preserving of sensitive areas interesting local communities involved in promoting of cultural and natural values The resort Baile Herculane is located near Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The park is part of environmental network Natura 2000 Weak points: poorly informed population environmental degradation and limited subsistence sources insufficient infrastructure insufficient environmental education Opportunities: Ecotourism development world The possibility for foreign tourist to contribute to local economy recovery International promotion of the area as having a large number of big carnivores European promotion of Natura 2000 sites Niches existence for developing touristic products with a reduced impact towards environment The role of the park in ecotourism promoting and management, through own activities and partnerships Threats: Uncontrolled buildings which don’t take into account the traditional aspect of the area Natural resources exploitation (wood exploitation, poaching, etc.) Development of construction areas to the prejudice of preserving areas
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Calimani National Park Forest owners rights are not respected including the lack of compensations for pasture and forest owners The local forest administration is not always have the same aims, regarding harvesting and health of the forests The interest for CNP from County level – opportunities
1.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. An example of Good Practice for elaboration/review of management plan would be promoting the flora and fauna richness and then the awareness of local communities about the necessary measures to protect the existent habitats and species. The locals agree with those management measures, especially knowing that they could have financial benefits. The specific objectives are: Conservation, protection and management biodiversity so that the current stage of plants and animals conservation stays at least at the present level Physical landscape and environmental management that involves maintaining the features that give particular character to main types of landscapes from the park Management of natural resources – from wood exploitation to pastures exploitation, etc. Management of park’s administration – strengthening the administrative capacity, establishment of appropriate mechanisms to continue specific activities and to promote closely partnerships with all the stakeholders Activities: meetings with researchers and persons involved in habitats and species identification measures elaboration regarding priority habitats and species conservation meetings with organisations and town-halls with the awareness purpose gathering information and dates about local communities, traditions, specific habits, tourism, traditional activities, etc elaboration/review of management plan The target group is formed from researchers, universities staff, etc. The direct beneficiary is the administrator of protected area and indirect are all the institutions and persons involved in environmental protection. The result is a proper management plan, accepted by everyone.
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Good Practices in Calimani National Park A. Horseback riding programmes, founder of Ecotourism Association of Tara Dornelor, founder of Local Action Group in Dorna Valley B. Ecotourism certification, Existing management plans for main protected areas C. 12 Apostles Thematic Trail, weekly meetings with students from local schools
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 1.4 AWARENESS RAISING
1.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. Calimani National Park Lessons and trips for students in schools Meetings with park staff for stakeholders (local authorities, land owners and forest administrators) Park’s website, flyers and panels on thematic trail for tourists – contained in CNP management plan Releases in local and regional mass media Domogled Cerna Valley National Park The education and public awareness can contribute by involving the human factor in concrete activities to protect the environment, to promote a sustainable and civilised tourism, to promote park’s image and also fund raising to accomplish biodiversity conservation objectives. Education and public awareness are necessary if changes towards environmental attitudes are wanted.Awareness activities: active involving of young, kids, visitors in activities conducted on the surface of the park educational and awareness programs for students, local communities, tourists, economic agents the involvement of volunteers in activities like restoration of tourist trails, cleaning actions, etc. Through communication strategies we follow these: Informing and awareness for locals through a “Caravan of information and awareness“ Informing and awareness for students “The caravan of Green Schools” Information and awareness campaign for tourists and others stakeholders Thematic tours organised in the park Awareness activities for tourists organised with different local events, like the Festival “Black Pine of Banat”
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1.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. Calimani National Park Schools around the national park (promoting natural assets of the area in class, participate with students at park’s educational activities) NGOs (co-founding staff training, management plan assessment) Domogled Cerna Valley National Park Public authorities involved in awareness and informing are: the administration of the park using as communication tools: - the direct communication at the meetings with students, locals, tourists at during the classes, trips, cleaning actions, volunteer actions and different traditional events - the indirect communication through brochures, leaflets, CD, touristic maps, mass-media, movies, web site, etc. public local authorities that also use both direct communication through meetings with locals and indirect communication through different informational materials schools from park’s area and near the park through direct communication during the classes Environmental Protection Agencies private authorities: hostel owners through indirect communication and tourism agencies from Baile Herculane, through touristic programs
1.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. Calimani National Park Children in schools and Junior Ranger camps (presentations, trips, volunteer actions) Public authorities at local level (meetings) Land owners and forest administrators (meetings) Tourists visiting the park area (discussions, written materials) Local and national mass- media Periodical meetings with stakeholders Annual meetings with Consultative Council Partnerships with schools (contests, lessons, trips) Press releases, interviews, conferences
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Tourist programmes in the parks (horseback riding, trekking, bird watching) Thematic trails> 12 Apostles (Calimani) Domogled Cerna Valley National Park Target groups: students and teaching staff local community different categories of tourists economic agents From awareness level point of view the target groups are: indifferent or with a negative impact toward environment with favourable attitude toward environment, but they don’t take any action involved in environment protection For each one of this target groups there have to be specific messages so that every group gradually became involved in protection and preserving natural, cultural, traditional and historical values. For the indifferent ones the message will target especially the awareness, explaining that humans are part of nature and that destruction of nature will affect human existence.
1.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis) Calimani National Park Opportunities - EU founds for specific activities (biodiversity conservation and local communities awareness, staff capacity building) Insufficient professional trainers Low interest for the local communities regarding CNP Students and teachers from local communities that participate often at park initiatives Domogled Cerna Valley National Park Strong points: - the availability of the town-halls to collaborate in projects - the successfully running of some projects - the existence of priority species and habitats (Black Pine of Banat forests - Pinus nigra ssp. banatica, sessile forest - Quercus petraea, hornbeam forests - Carpinus betulus)
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Weak points: - poorly informed population - environmental degradation and limited subsistence sources - insufficient infrastructure - insufficient environmental education Opportunities: - the existence of tv programs which bring informations about nature and it’s importance - protecting natural values through natural reservations - the existence of valuable traditions - the perpetuation of cultural and historical values - the increasing interest of universities, NGO’s, etc. - the development of a more responsible mentality towards nature Threats: - imperfect legislation - reduced means to impose compliance with laws regarding protected areas.
1.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. Domogled Cerna Valley National Park 1. The project “Ecological education on Domogled tourist trail” was implemented as an important tool in developing educational and tourism activities by Domogled Cerna Valley National Park’s Administration. During the project and after it’s implementation a lot of educational programs have been conducted in partnerships with school units from park’s area. Through this project the touristic trail Baile Herculane-White Cross-Domogled Reservation was equipped with educational panels which offered information about some of the sub Mediterranean forest species and also xero-thermophilic species like Pinus nigra ssp. Banatica, Carpinus orientalis, Cotinus coggygria, Fraxinus ornus, Cytisus scoparius, Syringa vulgaris, Cornus mas, etc. The existence of an educational tourist trail is essential for raising the students’, tourists’, local communities’ level of awareness. Promoting natural patrimony existent in this natural protected area is the major objective of the park’s administration.
Calimani National Park (CNP)
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A. Horseback riding programmes, founder of Ecotourism Association of Tara Dornelor, founder of Local Action Group in Dorna Valley B. Ecotourism certification, Existing management plans for main protected areas C. 12 Apostles Thematic Trail, weekly meetings with students from local schools The main activities implemented was: establish the route for the trail, obtain the approval from land owners, creation of the infrastructure, creation of the panels. Important was also finding the founds for this project. The target group is the visitors of the area that like to hikeing, students. The direct beneficiaries are the visitators and the park administration. Indirect beneficiaries are the local tourism businesses that can take advantage from this infrastructure. The result is spectacular, resulting the most important tourism infrastructure of CNP.
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1.5 CONCLUSIONS
A short summary of some ESA outcomes that underlines some concrete priorities to be commonly developed in the framework of the project in relation to the 3 thematic project areas are listed below: - Identifying local sources of anthropogenic pressure on protected areas; - Assess/Evaluation of the potential impact of anthropogenic sources of pressure; - Primary identification of measures to stop the negative evolution of the phenomen; - Identification, inventory and quantify sources of disturbance of the disturbing factors for ecotourism.
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2. ESA report Slovakia
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2.1. PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
2.1.1. Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. In December 2005, the Slovak Republic signed and ratified the European Landscape Convention (ELC) and thereby it committed to protect, plan and manage its landscape. ELC connects the interests of the nature protection and protection of cultural values, heritage fund. It integrates all the existing international conventions concerned with natural, cultural, historical, ecological, social and other aspects of the landscape care. Framework Convention on the Protection and Sustainable Development of the Carpathians On 22nd May 2003 in Kiev, seven countries of the Carpathian region (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovakia and Ukraine) signed convention on cooperation of the contracted parties for the protection and sustainable development of the Carpathian region with a goal to improve the quality of life, to strengthen local economies and communities and to protect natural values and cultural heritage. Act No.539/2008 Coll. on Support of Regional Development The main purpose of the regional development is: a) to eliminate or restrain the negative undesirable differences at the level of economical development, social development and territorial development of regions and achieve sustainable regional development b) to increase the economic power, competition of regions and development of the innovation in the regions while providing the sustainable development c) to increase the employment and the life standards of the inhabitants. Act No. 50/1976 Coll. on Territorial Planning and Building Order (Building Act) as subsequently amended Territorial planning systematically and comprehensively deals with spatial arrangement and functional area utilization. It sets its principles and proposes a material and time coordination of activities influencing the environment, ecological stability, cultural-historical values of the area, territorial development and the landscape formation in compliance with principles of the sustainable development. Territorial planning creates the conditions for permanent harmony of all the activities in the area in regard to care for the environment, achieving the ecological balance and providing the sustainable development, for regardful usage of natural resources and for the conservation of the natural, civilization and cultural values. Act No. 543/2002 Coll. on Nature and Landscape Protection as subsequently amended (NaLP) Under this act, nature and landscape protection is considered to be: i) a limitation of interventions which can endanger, harm or destroy the living conditions and forms of life, natural heritage, landscape character, lower its ecological stability as well as
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ii) an elimination of consequences of such interferences. Nature protection is also understood as a protection of ecosystems. The scope of the restrictions increases in the areas with higher protection degree, while the territorial conservation is applied in the whole area of the Slovak Republic. Act No. 543/2002 Coll. sets out following categories of protected areas in the Slovak Republic (Article 17): . Protected Landscape Area (PLA) . National Park (NP) . Protected Site (PS) . National Nature Reserve and Nature Reserve (NNR, NR) . National Nature Monument and Nature Monument (NNM, NM) . Protected Landscape Element (PLE) . Protected Bird Area (PBA) Act No. 24/2006 Coll. on Environmental Impacts Assessment and alternations and amendments of certain acts as subsequently amended The purpose of this act is especially: a) to provide high level of environment protection and to contribute to the integration of environmental aspects into the preparation and approval of strategic documents with the focus on the support of the sustainable development, b) to discover, describe and assess direct and indirect effects of the strategic document proposal and of the proposed activities on the environment, c) to clarify and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the strategic document proposal and proposed activities including their alternatives, as well in comparison with the zero alternative, d) to determine the measures to prevent the environment pollution, to reduce the environment pollution or prevent damage of the environment, e) to obtain expert background for the approval of strategic document and for the issue of a decision on the permission of activities according to certain regulations. f) 2.1.2. General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. The chosen area of the PPP Horehron involves the cadastral areas of the municipalities Beňuš, Braväcovo, Bacúch, Polomka, Závadka nad Hronom, Heľpa, Pohorelá, Vaľkovňa, Šumiac and Telgárt. The Municipalities are also united in the Microregion Horehron, which covers the area of 470 km2. On the date 31st December 2009, 16930 people lived in this region. The northern and eastern border of this area corresponds to the border of the Banská Bystrica region and the Brezno district. The territory is located in a landscape valuable area with a high natural and territorial potential (The National park Nízke Tatry, The National Park Muránska planina, The National
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Park Slovenský raj) which provides the year-long possibility of hiking, cycling, sightseeing tourism, possibility to float the river Hron and possibility of downhill or cross country skiing. Table 1: General presentation of the territory Population density Municipality Population Area [ha] Altitude [m] [people/km2 ] Bacúch 1 008 3 819.0647 26 605 Beňuš 1 191 2 44 544 678.0357 Braväcovo 695 2 940.9193 24 610 Heľpa 2 835 4 170.3917 68 660 Pohorelá 2 397 4 693.9967 51 724 Polomka 3 093 9 402.2988 33 614 Šumiac 1 362 8 176.4900 17 841 Telgárt 1 536 5 597.4134 27 886 Vaľkovňa 372 1 485.3398 25 721 Závadka nad 2 441 59 618 4 118.4209 Hronom ∑ 16 930 47 35.9 - 082.371 Source: SO SR 31.12.2009 The population density of the area is 35.9 people/km2. One municipality has less than 500 inhabitants, 5 municipalities have from 501 to 2 000 inhabitants and 4 municipalities have more than 2 000 inhabitants. The largest municipality, as for its area and population, is Polomka, the smallest one is Vaľkovňa.
2.1.3. Sensitive and protected mountain areas. There are three large-scale protected areas and their protected zones which extend to the model area. The National Park Nízke Tatry covers the northern part of the area, the National park Muránska planina is spread in the southern part and a small part in the north-east belongs to the National Park Slovenský raj. The National Park Nízke Tatry In 1978, the National Park Nízke Tatry (NAPANT) was established and proclaimed with the Regulation of the SSR Government No. 119/78 of the Legal Code .
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The National Park Nízke Tatry is the largest national park in Slovakia. The peak Ďumbier (2 043 m. a. s. l.) is the highest of the Low Tatras. This mountain range extends from the east to the west in the length almost 100 km in middle Slovakia. The Saddleback Čertovica divides the mountains into two parts - Ďumbier on the west and Kráľovohoľské Tatry on the east. The massif Kráľová hoľa is the spring area of the four Slovak rivers: Váh, Hron, Hornád and Hnilec. Table 2: Small-scale protected areas of NAPANT in the area of the PPP Horehron
Registra Small-scale Proclam Cadastre District tion Area [ha] protected areas ation number year PS Brezinky Telgárt, Šumiac Brezno 1 141 8.6 2007 NR Pohorelské Pohorelá Brezno 479 26.6 1979 vrchovisko NR Meandre Telgárt, Šumiac Brezno 351 103.8 1980 Hrona Telgárt, Šumiac, NR Martalúzka Brezno 1 057 154.8 1999 Lipt.Teplička Source: SNC SR
The National Park Muránska planina The National Park Muránska planina is located in the western part of the mountain range Slovenské rudohorie and it presents geomorphologically important karst area. The core of this karst area is formed by a limestone-dolomite plateau with numerous karst formations. The highest peak is Fabova hoľa (1439 m. a. s. l.). Muránska planina is rich as for the occurrence of the rare and slightly modified formations of plants and animals, with occurrence of several relict and endemic species. Table 3: Small-scale protected areas of the National Park Muránska planina in the area of the PPP Horehron Registra Proclam Small-scale Cadastre District tion Area [ha] ation protected areas number year NR Bacúšska Bacúch Brezno 206 42.6 1967 jelšina Muráň, Polomka, NR Fabova hoľa Brezno 247 261.7 1988 Pohronská Polhora NR Havrania Valkovňa Brezno 1 021 229.6 1996 dolina
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NR Mašianske Valkovňa, Pohorelá Brezno 348 16.9 1980 skalky NR Mokrá Poľana Šumiac Brezno 1 082 13.5 2000 Heľpa, Muráň, Závadka Brezno, NNR Veľká Stožka 470 259.21 1965 nad Hronom Revúca NR Zlatnianske Vaľkovňa Brezno 489 30.67 1981 skalky NNR Zlatnica Šumiac Brezno 850 154.06 1993 PS Lúky pod Telgárt Brezno 1 186 83.82 2010 Besníkom Source: SNC SR
The National Park Slovenský raj The National Park Slovenský raj is located in the north-eastern part of the mountain range Slovenské rudohorie. Typical features of the land are plateaus, deep canyons, gorges, waterfalls, surface karst features and attractive underground chambers with stalactic and ice decoration. Table 4: Small-scale protected areas of the National Park Slovenský raj in the area of the PPP Horehron Small-scale Registration Year of the Cadastre District Area [ha] protected areas number proclamation NRR Hnilecká Telgárt Brezno 257 84.59 1988 jelšina Source: SNC SR Coherent European ecological network of protected areas NATURA 2000 Sites of Community importance (SCIs) There are several SCIs in the model area: Pohorelské vrchovisko (SKUEV0151), Homoľa (SKUEV0204), Muránska planina (SKUEV0225), Lúky pod Besníkom (SKUEV0283), Brezinky (SKUEV0297), Alúvium Hrona (SKUEV0303), Stolica (SKUEV0203), Bacúšska jelšina (SKUEV0399), Slovenský raj (SKUEV0112) a Kráľovohoľské Nízke Tatry (SKUEV0310). Special protection areas (SPAs) (Protected Bird Areas (PBA) according to the national legislation) Two SPAs have been proclaimed in the area of the PPP Horehron: PBA Muránska planina - Stolica and PBA Nízke Tatry. They were proclaimed for purpose to preserve the habitats of the European importance bird species and habitats of migratory species of birds and to provide their survival and reproduction in 2010.
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Territorial projection of documents of the Territorial system of ecological stability (TSES) Actualisation of elements of TSES of the district Brezno (The Slovak Environmental Agency, Banská Bystrica, 2006) specifies following elements in the area: 1. Biocentres . Biocentre of biospheric significance: Muránska Planina . Biocentres of provincial significance: Kráľovohoľské Nízke Tatry – Centrálna časť, Slovenský raj . Biocentre of supra-regional significance: Kráľovohoľské Nízke Tatry . Biocentres of regional significance: Bacúšska jelšina, Dolina Hronec, Vrchovisko Pri Pohorelskej Maši, Pod Dlhým vrchom, Homoľa a Lúky na Besníku 2. Biocorridors . Biocorridor of supra-regional significance Hron . Biocorridors of supra-regional significance: Muránska planina – Kráľovohoľské Nízke Tatry, Slovenský raj – Stolica – Kohút
2.1.4. Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). Three national parks meet in the territory of the PPP Horehron. From the point of organizational structure, every national park has its own administration which is a organizational unit of the State Nature Conservancy of the Slovak Republic (SNC SR). SNC SR is a professional organization of the Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic (MoE SR) with nation-wide scope. It is aimed at providing for tasks in the field of nature and landscape protection including the caves administration according to the Act on Nature and Landscape Conservation No. 543/2002 Coll. as subsequently amended. SNC SR is also active in the field of protection of wild animals and plants species by regulating trade therein according to the Act No. 15/2005 Coll. on Protection of Wild Animals and Plants Species by Regulating Trade therein and on change and amendment of some legal acts as subsequently amended. It mainly cooperates with other professional institutions aimed at care for the environment and nature and landscape protection, speleology and related scientific disciplines. Furthermore, it collaborates with authorities of local state administration and local self- government, with national and foreign scientific institutions and institutions of higher education, foreign partnership organizations and other environmental and speleological organizations. Almost all number of the municipalities within the PPP Horehron (except for the municipalities Polomka and Beňuš) are members of the Association of the Mountain Settlements of Slovakia (AMSS). AMSS was established in 2003, with effort to create a non- governmental association that would not only be concerned with hard living conditions in the mountain settlements, but also with problem of the most important economical activity - tourism - and relations to the state administration authorities and relevant legal regulations concerning the area development as a whole.
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The municipalities of the PPP Horehron communicate through AMSS with municipalities in the mountain regions and they try to solve the problems of mountain (disadvantaged) regions in Slovakia together. With a common effort, they achieved an integration of the criteria of altitude into the formula for redistribution of the natural person income-tax sum to individual municipalities.
2.1.5. Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. Problems, constraints and threats . Demography: population ageing, productive population decrease and unproductive elements population increase, population spill-over, increasing unemployment, marginalized groups of population . Environment: natural stress factors – windbreaks, floods, increase of the environmental danger, deforestation and landslides, climate changes, insufficient environmental awareness of population . Tourism: non-complexity of services provided in the field of tourism, non-complex information system . increasing living costs of inhabitants of mountain areas. Challenges and opportunities . innovations in informative technologies field, in communications field, innovations of products and processes, . environment friendly tourism, . diversification aimed at non-farm activities, . production, sell and marketing of regional products, . alternative energy sources, . partnership cooperation of self-government authorities, of private sector and third sector.
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2.2. ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
2.2.1. Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. Act No. 539/2008 Coll. on Support of Regional Development is the main legislative tool in the Slovak Republic, which was adopted to support regional development, including regional economic development. According to Act No. 539/2008 Coll. the support of regional development is carried out by way of: a) The National Strategy of Regional Development of the Slovak Republic (national level), b) The Economic and Social Development Programme of Self Governing Region (regional level), c) The Economic and Social Development Programme of Municipality (local level). The National Strategy of Regional Development of the Slovak Republic is the initial strategic document, which comprehensively determines the strategic approach of the state on regional development support in the long-term respecting principles of sustainable development. Economic and Social Development Programme of Self Governing Region /Municipality is a medium-term development document that is elaborated in compliance with aims and priorities that are adopted in the National Strategy. It is elaborated according to binding part of spatial plan documentation of the region. The running activities that are provided for documents on support of regional development are closely related to spatial development. Spatial development defines spatial distribution and functional use of the territory. Pursuant to Act No. 50/1976 Coll. on physical planning and building code (Construction Law) as amended spatial planning documentation is a basic tool of regional development and environmental care in the Slovak Republic, its regions and municipalities. Spatial planning documentation represents: a) The Conception of Spatial Development of the Slovak Republic, b) Regional Spatial Plan, c) Municipality Spatial Plan, d) Zonal Spatial Plan. The Conception of Spatial Development of the Slovak Republic deals with spatial distribution and functional use of the Slovak Republic territory and defines the framework of social, economic, environmental and cultural demands of the state for spatial development, environmental care and landscape planning of the Slovak Republic and its regions. Regional Spatial Plan is elaborated for the part of landscape with several municipalities, in which is necessary to solve the specific development studies or to do activities influencing
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strongly spatial distribution and functional use. Regional Spatial Plan must be in compliance with the binding part of the Conception of Spatial Development of the Slovak Republic and comes out from the recommendation part of the Conception of Spatial Development of the Slovak Republic. Municipality Spatial Plan is elaborated for the territory of one municipality or for territories of two or more municipalities. A Municipality Spatial Plan mainly defines principles and regulations of spatial distribution and functional use of the municipal territory tied in with surrounding territories. Zonal Territorial Plan is elaborated for a part of municipality. It mainly defines in more detail principles and regulations of spatial distribution and functional use of lands, constrictions, public traffic and technical infrastructure of the territory. Besides economic and spatial development, every document for support of regional development also includes conditions, which assure environmental care as well as nature and landscape protection. Pursuant to Act No. 543/2002 Coll. on Nature and Landscape Protection, as amended the competent authorities of nature and landscape protection must give standpoints to approval of such documents. Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (EAFRD) is elaborated in order to achieve rural sustainable development. Its aim is to increase the competitiveness of agriculture, food industry and forestry, to improve state of environment and landscape, to improve life standards in rural territories and to diversify of rural economy.
2.2.2. The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. Initiatives, activities or measures that are currently being realized, or was being realized in the issue of economic development support in the chosen region are mainly focus on: development of small and middle enterprise development of production and sale of domestic products development of infrastructure and technical facilities of municipality development of tourism Development of Small and Middle Enterprise These activities are mainly aimed at the support and development of business plans, which can utilize existing potential of the territory. It concerns mainly: - production and export of lamb; sale of sheep wool and furs; sheep-breeding; livestock breeding and milk production; shops and catering; private accommodation; mining, processing and sale of stone and sands; transport services; logging and processing of wood and shingle production. There are education agencies, which have helped people to self-employ through requalification and education courses, especially after collapse of big industrial companies. Development of Production and Sale of Domestic Products
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The production and sale of traditional domestic products is closely connected to entrepreneurial activities realized in a local community. Supporting activities in this area are: - products from sheep milk, wool and meat, wood processing and shingle production and stone processing., Socio-cultural events are organized to encourage of the sale of domestic products. Development of Infrastructure and Technical Facilities of Municipality We can say that this issue has the highest number of executed projects. The aim of these projects is: - renovation, reconstruction of existing buildings and spaces as well as construction of new public buildings and spaces, reconstruction and construction of municipal technical facilities, informatization of municipality and install sewage system and sewage treatment plants. Development of Tourism The PPP Horehron has a huge natural and cultural heritage potential for development of: rural tourism and agrotourism, hiking and cycling, downhill and cross-country skiing and free ride skiing, watermanship and sightseeing tourism. This region is characterized by the preservation of folk traditions as evidenced by the fact that a local folklore group or ensemble is in almost every municipality and there are organized many cultural events in the course of the year.
2.2.3. New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. The PPP Horehron let elaborate Integrated Territorial Development Strategy (ITDS), which incorporates the aims, measures and activities leading to economy strengthening in the region. Table 5: ITDS review Specific aim Measures Activities To support The Support of - building, reconstruction and modernization of innovations in the Alternative objects with aim of processing, storage and economic base and Energy Sources utilization of renewable energy resources (e.g. to support of Using biomass production and its processing, building of employment in the biogas stations, change of fuel basis based on the region use of renewable energy resources The Support of - marketing and promotion of sales of local Production, products; Sales and - creation of the quality labeling and creation of Marketing of the the regional product of Horehron; Regional Products (Farm - construction, reconstruction and modernization sales, Crafts, of buildings for the direct sale of agricultural
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Propagation) products – establishment of small saleoutlets directly in companies where the beneficiary will be able to sell his/her products (with the exception of fish products) – “private producers“; - acquisition and modernization of technical and technological facilities for the necessary facilities of selling places and for the install of an Internet connection in companies, including software and hardware (PC + printers); - construction, acquisition and reconstruction of facilities and technologies connected with processing, storage and distribution of agricultural products; - construction, acquisition and modernization of technical and technological facilities for planting, reconstruction and modernization of orchards and for planting medicinal herbs; Use of existing - construction, reconstruction and modernization buildings in of manufacture halls and sales outlets, and order to increase purchase of machinery, technologies and facilities employment in for the production and processing of traditional the region materials and products (e.g. production of flax linen, wooden products,…) – building investment, investment in internal equipment, facilities and technologies including Internet connection; - reconstruction and modernization farms in plant and animal production area , and mechanization; - acquisition and modernization of technical and technological facilities in plant production To develop existing Support of rural - marketing of rural tourism services potential in tourism tourism activities - reconstruction and modernization of low- capacity accommodation facilities up to 10 beds (building investment, investment in internal equipment including the installation of an Internet connection); - rebuilding family houses and vacant buildings, which are part of family houses to low-capacity accommodation facilities up to 10 beds (investment in internal equipment including the installation of an Internet connection) ;
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- construction, reconstruction and modernization of camping accommodation including fencing, lighting and sanitary facilities; - construction, reconstruction and modernization of additional relaxation facilities (sauna, fireplace, pool,…). Develop of - reconstruction and modernization of recreational Secondary and accommodation facilities with capacity from Supply of 11 to 40 beds – building investment, investment in Tourism internal equipment and technologies including installation of an Internet connection; - reconstruction of existing agricultural buildings (which lost its original purpose) for agro-touristic buildings with capacity from 11 to 40 beds – building investment, investment in internal equipment and technologies including installation of an Internet connection ; Support of - creation of complete tourism product – Activities to promotion of cultural-sightseeing routes; build of Complex Tourism Product of the Region Horehron To support local Creation of - construction, reconstruction and modernization development and Conditions for of public lighting; the village renewal the better - construction, reconstruction and modernization with the aim of Quality of of water supply and sewage; raising the life Environment quality in the and - construction and extension of public water municipalities infrastructural supply; Facilities of - construction and extension of sewage system Municipalities and sewage treatment plants;
Municipalities - construction, reconstruction and modernization development of pavements, cycle routes, public lighting and Renovation (lighting in parks and spaces), public spaces and parks; - construction, reconstruction and modernization of local roads and bridges; - construction, reconstruction and modernization of bus stops; Basic Services - reconstruction and modernization of recreational
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for Rural zones; Population - construction, reconstruction and modernization of playgrounds and sports grounds and small architecture elements; - reconstruction and modernization of municipal authorities, amphitheatres, market places, including their surroundings (excluding buildings, which are recorded by The Ministry of Culture of The Slovak Republic in the registry of immovable cultural monuments and UNESCO localities) ;
The possibilities of financial resources (development tools) of particular activities of municipalities to support of local and regional development are: - the state budget, budget of Banská Bystrica Self-governing region, municipal budget, non-refundable subsidies of Village Renewal Programme, budget of Environmental Fund and European Union (Rural Development Programme, Regional Operational Programme, Operational Programme - Employment and Social Inclusion, Operational Programme - Education, Operational Programme - Environment, Operational Programme - Informatization of Society, etc.).
2.2.4. Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products Table 6: List of the target groups and stakeholders Target groups and stakeholders Reason for participation PPP Horehron Municipalities Municipality: ensures and coordinates the elaboration and realization programme of economic and social development of municipality, monitors it regularly and evaluates its fulfillment annually, creates conditions for establishment and development of territorial cooperation and partnership, supports development of entrepreneurial activities needed for development of municipality. Banská Bystrica Self Government Region Self Government Region: ensures and coordinates the elaboration and realization programme of economic
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and social development self governing region, monitors it regularly and evaluates its fulfillment annually. elaborates proposals of regional innovation strategy and regional innovation policy and other sector strategies and policies. participates in fulfillment of tasks relating to target of the support of regional development in cooperation with the Ministry and other socio-economic partners in self governing region, creates conditions for establishment and development of territorial cooperation and partnerships, supports development of entrepreneurial activities needed for development of municipality Administrations of the National Park Nízke Administrations of national parks: ensure: Tatry, the Natioanal Park Muránska planina protection of ecosystems and natural and the National Park Slovenský raj) processes running in them, protection of landscape character, relief, protection of plant and animal species, research and monitoring, environmental education, sustainable tourism and recreation in the territory under their administration. State enterprise Forests of the Slovak State-owned enterprise manages a major Republic, Banská Bystrica – Forest Enterprise part of forest lands in the PPP Horehron Beňuš territory . Entrepreneurs in the area of the PPP Entrepreneurs as driving force of economic Horehron development in the territory.
Elementary schools and kindergartens in the Raising awareness in relation to utilization of region natural resources of the territory and to preservation and development of local traditions. NGO´s Third sector substantially participates in
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cultural and social development of territory Disadvantaged marginalized populations It is necessary to give particular attention to (population with low degree of education, these population groups on account of a Roma community, ...) considerable problem with their participation in any projects. Public Local population living in the specific region and being the recipient and the executor of activities aimed at support of regional and local development.
2.2.5. Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis). Strengths Weaknesses region with high environmental quality, inefficient utilization of natural presence of protected territories potential of the region production potential of forests, agriculturally disadvantaged – agricultural land, particularly of meadows mountain region and pastures economic instability of agricultural headwater area companies conditions for breeding extension of unsettled proprietary legal traditional animal breeds, fishery and relationships with land hunting change of typical landscape scenery in conditions for development of cultural consequence of non-managing of meadows tourism, recreational and sport tourism, and pastures – - abandoning the arable cycling strong soil erosion organizing social, cultural and sports dissolution of industrial companies in events of regional and supra-regional the region significance negative population trend, population preserved tradition architecture and migration rich cultural heritage high unemployment, lack of job development and preservation of opportunities traditions, handicraft and folklore low purchasing power of population outward: promotion of municipalities by web pages, promotion materials, inward: construction restrictions resulting from information newspaper in particular legislative in force in nature and land municipalities protection issues undeveloped services for needs of
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sightseeing tourism and recreational sport tourism non-complex information system of the region absence of complex tourism product seasonality in tourism unfinished tourism centers insufficient state of state and local roads building of basic technical infrastructure of municipalities has not finished yet inadaptable populous Roma community Opportunities Threats diversification of economic activities in Internal direction of non-agricultural activities population aging utilization of local natural resources efflux of educated workforce to re-managing of meadows and pastures towns/abroad opportunities for implementation of rising unemployment new technologies (utilization of alternative devastation of environment energy sources) change of typical landscape scenery improvement of competitiveness of resulting from non-managing of meadows agro-food and forestry sector and pastures entrance of foreign investors into joint insufficient financial resources for agricultural companies necessary structural changes utilization of state assistance programs insufficient presentation of region and programs financed by EU funds growing inadaptable Roma community revitalization of public places in municipalities creation of complete tourism product External assistance in creating new jobs in small climate change – warming – short and middle entrepreneurship and services winter assistance to private producers – without natural snow –winter tourist honey, sheep products, support of medicinal season in danger herbs growing natural calamities – floods, windstorms creation of regional label “Product of economic crisis
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Horehronie” delay of investors entrance to lagging creation of social enterprise - rural areas protected workshop aimed at e.g. folk great administrative challenges for costume embroidery acquiring finances from state subsidies and EU funds clientelism and corruption
2.2.6. Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories The PPP Horehron municipalities practice ecologic farming and the agro-companies focus on diversification into non-agricultural activities (agrotourism). Traditional crafts are retained and the traditional and regional products are produced in the territory till now.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 2.3. POLICIES AND PLANS
2.3.1. General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. National level: . government policy, national legislative standards, their implementation at national level, . impacts of resorts and their strategic documents, policies and instruments of the EP, especially the interests of nature conservation (The Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic), . impacts of nationwide corporations, associations and societies. Regional level: . development and sustainability policy of the self-governing region, representative system, . performance of programs and measures implementing national strategies for nature and landscape conservation, regulated by territorial governance of protected areas (in the organizational structure of the SNC of the SR), . regional institutions and interest associations. Local level: . municipality: o by decisions and performance of the self-governing region (Civic association, Mayor, Office) o interest groups, enterprises . common organizational bodies: common offices to exercise the powers of the self-governing region (Building Authority, Office of Education, Office of Social Affairs ... ) Public Private Partnership, Microregional Associations of Municipalities. PPP Horehron territory comprises 10 municipalities with own municipal office. Under the Art. 4, Par. 3 of the Act no. 369/1990 Coll. on Municipalities, the competencies of municipal authorities in regional development are following: municipality procures and approves spatial planning documentation of residential units and zones, the development concept of various aspects of life within the municipality, procures and approves housing development programs and participates in the formation of favourable living conditions in the village, municipality provides preservation of cultural monuments in the range of special regulations and ensures the conservation of natural values,
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municipality provides construction, maintenance and management of local roads, public spaces, municipal cemetery, cultural, sporting and other municipal facilities, cultural monuments, historic sites and landmarks of the municipality. In the interest of quality, rational and efficient performance of the transferred tasks of the state administration in the field of spatial planning and building code, roads, conservation of nature and water management in accordance with § 20 and § 20a/ of the Act. no. 369/1990 Coll. on Municipalities as amended, the municipality signed an agreement on the establishment of: common Building Authority (registered office: Beňuš, Polomka), common Office of Education (registered office: Polomka, Heľpa), common municipal Office for Social Assistance (registered office: Heľpa). PPP Horehron comprises the municipalities within the Microregion Horehron representing the public sector; private sector is represented by enterprises and the third sector is represented by non-profit organizations and civic associations. The ratio of public sector to private sector and third sector meets one of the basic conditions of the Local Action Group (LAG) and is as follows: public sector: 10 members, private sector: 12 members and civil sector: 10 members. Since the establishment of the PPP Horehron several strategic documents have been drafted with one purpose - to coordinate the support of territorial development. In 2008, the PPP Horehron decided to promote endogenous development through the LEADER approach. The PPP ensured the mobilization of human potential of the given area by building long-term cooperation with all groups involved in the development of the territory, a functional partnership in the region on the principles of the LEADER approach, strengthening the participation of actors in the formation of local policies, creation of an Integrated Territorial Development Strategy (ITDS) for PPP Horehron as the basic document for territorial development, education of the eligible members, promotion and presentation of the strategy. The strategy itself has been elaborated in an interactive way with active participation of all the territorial "movers" and influencer of the local development. This approach has already brought a change into the current situation of local problems in the area that has strengthened the cooperation between local municipalities and their inhabitants. The strategy has been implemented by strategic priorities of the documents at regional, national and European level. Preparation of the ITDS originates in facilitated meetings held at local and regional level. The meetings were facilitated by local needs, as well as by external experts. The actual meetings were held always in local conditions to realize the potential of individual municipalities. The organizational structure of PPP Horehron: . General Assembly (all members) . PPP Council (executive authority) . Chair person (statutory) . Review commission (control authority)
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2.3.2. Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). Under the Act no. 543/2002 Coll. on Nature and Landscape Protection as subsequently amended, the Protected Area Management Plan document is considered to be: The Conservation Program of Specially Protected Nature and Landscapes Territories and of Areas of International Importance. Preservation programs are being developed for individual protected areas. Due to the Nature and Landscape Protection, the localities which contain the habitats of European significance and the habitats of national significance, habitats of species of European significance and habitats of species of national significance, and the habitats of birds, including migratory species, can be declared as protected areas, which are: protected landscape area, national park, protected area, nature reserve, natural monument, protected landscape element and protected bird area. The National Park Conservation Program is procured by The Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic and approved by the Government of the Slovak Republic. These programs are the basis for the development of spatial planning documentation for areas with nature and landscape protection. These programs are publicly available. Three national parks meet in the territory of PPP Horehron: The National Park Nízke Tatry, The National Park Muránska planina, The National Park Slovenský raj Status of completion of the Conservation program: The National Park Nízke Tatry (NP) had a processed Conservation Program for the National Park Nízke Tatry in the period from 1998 to 2008. Currently, there is no conservation program processed or developed for NP Nízke Tatry, the territorial management utilizes management measures for individual habitats of protected species of plants and habitats of European and national significance. The aim of the management measures is to save the most valuable residues of various types of habitats in the area proclaimed for small-sized protected areas, proposed territories of European importance (NATURA 2000) and the gene pool surfaces in the protection zone of the National Park Nízke Tatry, which is also the habitat of protected and endangered species of flora and fauna. National Park Muránska planina does not have any Conservation Program processed for Muránska planina NP. National Park Slovenský raj is covered by a processed Conservation Program for NP Slovenský raj and the Territory of European Importance – Slovenský raj – for the years 2012 - 2021, its submission to the Government of the Slovak Republic is expected for December 2011 - January 2012.
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Table 7: Aims for eco-functional spaces of National Park Slovenský raj eco-functional space aim Forests and non-forest Undisturbed, spontaneous development of habitat, without habitats left to human intervention. spontaneous development Forests for rebuilding into Long-term reconstruction of natural vegetation towards the natural forests natural woods later in maximum of 30 years after reaching the target parameters transfer the natural vegetation to the zone A. Forests with extensive Nature-friendly forest management utilizing the finest sustainable management methods with respect to the indicators of favourable habitat conditions. Forests with aim to Change of original tree species composition, removal of change their the invasive woody species consistence from woody to natural Extensive permanent Sustainable, extensive utilization of habitats, preservation of grassland semi-natural and natural grassland habitats Intensive permanent Intensive agricultural utilization leading to progressive grasslands improvement in terms of grassland conservation and population maintenance of the European Suslik. Permanent grassland with To provide basic conditions for maintaining the subject matter occasional tree felling of preservation through occasional felling. Other non-forest habitats To maintain the current status of habitats with extensive with extensive utilization utilisation for specific purposes. Anthropogenic habitats Utilization according to specific functions. Arable land Suitable for the gradual conversion of permanent grasslands and split of the blocks by shrub zones.
PPP Horehron Integrated Territory Development Strategy The PPP Horehron territory has a processed and approved Integrated Territory Development Strategy for the PPP Horehron (ITDS). The ITDS was developed in 2010 on the principles of the Leader approach. Vision: PP Horehron will become a successful, competitiveness area, where the innovative processes of the local development will be applied, with the aim to ensure sustainable development, on the principles of the nature protection and quality management of the natural and cultural heritage
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Strategic objective: Improve the life quality of the PPP Horehron population, support diversification of rural economy and increase competitiveness of the territory on the principles of using the natural, human, cultural and historical potential of the area. Strategic priorities: 1. Support for innovation in the economic base and support for employment in the region 2. Support for rural tourism development 3. Local development and village renewal 4. Education, local activism and cooperation 5. Protection, planning and management of landscape, natural and cultural-historical heritage Specific objectives: 1. To support innovations in the economic base and to support of employment in the region 2. To develop existing potential in tourism 3. To support local development and the village renewal with the aim of raising the life quality in the municipalities 4. To support education, local activism and cooperation with the aim of region local identity conservation 5. To ensure landscape, natural and culture-historical heritage management, planning and protection
2.3.3. Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. Cooperation and public participation in the elaboration of the Conservation Program for Protected Areas: In the Conservation Program, the strategic goals of upkeep of the area of national park, including its protection zones, are proposed differentially by the individual components of the environment and in relation to units of territory spatial division with the same care; they contain principles and regulations of land use in relation to different sectors of human activity. The proposed measures of practical care will be discussed between the body procuring the Conservation Program and known landowners (factors, tenants). The elaboration of the Conservation Program for the national park procures the Ministry of Environment of the SR and is approved by the Government of the Slovak Republic. The elaboration of the Conservation Program is provided by a professionally qualified person. Cooperation and public involvement in the elaboration/development of ITDS of PPP Horehron:
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At the elaboration of ITDS participated in an interactive way the area residents, local governments, enterprises and local civic associations involving local and external facilitators. Land and Resources Audit PPP Horehron (analytical part of the Strategy) was elaborated by external experts from the Slovak Environmental Agency and its results were presented to the territory, with the possibility of commenting. SWOT analyses of individual municipalities were prepared by internal and external facilitators. The procedure for preparation of a SWOT analysis of the territory was divided into 2 levels: Local level - public meetings at municipal level - SWOT analysis-processing, the processed SWOT was published after the public meeting – comments. Regional level - followed the processing and commenting of SWOT analysis of all PPP Horehron municipalities, the Vision and SWOT analysis of PPP Horehron territory were prepared at two public meetings. Citizen participation in the process of SWOT analysis - area residents, concerning mainly the active citizens working in the private sector or civic associations, clubs and groupings of PPP Horehron took part on public meetings despite the workload, or, conversely, high apathy.
. Problem analysis was prepared according to the methodology of the Problem-solving matrix. Coupled matrix helped to identify the most important issues addressed as priorities in this area and allows easy comparison of different priorities within it. The problem analysis was processed at three meetings and into it was approached and engaged also the public of PPP Horehron municipalities by representation of all three sectors - public, private and civil sector. . Linking of the vision, strategic goals, priorities, specific objectives and measures is provided by a logical framework of ITDS.
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2.3.4. Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. n/c
2.3.5. The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis).
Strengths Weaknesses plan processing in an interactive way - unsolved functioning of the PPP office involving public, private and civil sector insufficiency of funds to keep qualified territorial management provided by workers in the region experienced managers,
provided information on the intentions of the territory, common vision of the territory co-operation with the State Nature Conservancy of the SR Opportunities Threats possibility of raising financial resources exchange of mayors within the for the territory management from the EU municipalities funds unwillingness to participate in mutual cooperation with experts cooperation
2.3.6. Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. Implementation of the strategy formation managed to wake the territory and initiate various activities within the cooperation of public, private and civil sector. The general public became interested in the public affairs, expressed its opinion and was involved in the processing of the logical framework of the strategy area. Currently, the activities defined in the Strategic Action Plan are pursued through the implementation of public, private and civil sector projects.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 2.4. AWARENESS RAISING
2.4.1. Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. The success of a sustainable developed territory is based on a human potential that is able to use of territory values in accordance with the principles of sustainability in order to improve the quality of life for rural inhabitants. Territory development is based on the utilization of local resources, which also includes human resources that are also characterized by its quality. To ensure optimal qualitative development based on the use of local resources is one of the necessary conditions to ensure local stakeholders in the education area, education and awareness of the population itself. One recent and very effective ways of learning itself is an exchange of experience, the range of activities addressed in a separate measure of the Integrated Territory Development Strategy. Education, information and awareness-raising of target groups in the model area are defined in the following strategic priorities and specific targets of Integrated Territory Development Strategy: Strategic Priority 4: Education, local activism and cooperation Specific objective 4: To support education, local activism and cooperation with the aim of regional local identity conservation Measure: 4.1: Training and information Activities: short-time courses, training, training to acquire necessary knowledge and skills in the field of crafts and self-employment opportunities; educational activities devoted to the protection of the environment, alternative energy sources, landscape upkeep and rural landscape quality objectives; touring activities to target groups; preparation, printing and distribution of printed publications; Strategic Priority 5: Protection, planning and management of landscape, natural and cultural-historical heritage Specific objective 5: To ensure landscape, natural and culture-historical heritage management, planning and protection Measure 5.1: Support for projects aimed at improving landscape management
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Activities: regional environmental education and training; joint activities with the aim of enhancing environmental quality; The measure is designed to care for the country itself in terms of implementation of the European Landscape Convention and the Convention on biological diversity, as well as to eliminate negative phenomena that threaten high-quality environmental areas. Finally, it is also the need to support the learning and application of regional education with the aim of enhancing the quality of life in the target area.
2.4.2. Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. Information, education, and thereby increasing awareness on this issue are in competence in these operating entities: Public-private partnership Horehron - mainly coordinates the regional and spatial development of production restructuring, development of small and medium enterprises, tourism, services, education and culture, transport and technical infrastructure, conservation, environment and natural resources. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) - provide a dynamic base of ongoing education and awareness programs for all age groups in the model area, mostly made from a variety of financial grants (eg the European Social Fund, national financial mechanisms etc.). Municipalities - provide education and increase the adaptability of its employees and employees of the institution established by municipalities; increase the managerial skills, language skills, project management skills or other skills to increase their adaptability to the labor market (courses, training, information seminars, training etc.). These activities ensure the municipalities through projects alone or in cooperation with the NGO sector as partners in the project: Project POZRI - support of professional skills, management, implementation. The project beneficiary was the village Bacúch, who arranged the staff training of itself and of partner municipalities (Beňuš, Braväcovo, Polomka, Závadka over Hronom, help, Vaľkovňa, Pohorelá, Šumiac, Telgárt) in the field of managerial skills, language and computer literacy of the target group. Project: Training and cooperation for better task implementation. The project beneficiary was the civic association IT for prosperity, which is located outside the model area, but the project partners were also the municipalities of the PPP Horehron (Pohorelá, Vaľkovňa, Bacúch, Šumiac, Závadka over Hronom Beňuš, Braväcovo) . The project is aimed at the increasing of the knowledge level of the target group in general, specific and digital literacy and of the improving of conditions for cooperation of the applicant and partners. European Training Centre in Závadka nad Hronom - centre has a wide range of activities and operates at different levels. At the regional level it is a close cooperation with local organizations, municipalities, businesses. At the national level the activity is focused on
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training, consulting and coordinating activities. At international level, it is the cooperation with foreign entities, associations and expansion through projects and partial activities of partner organizations network. The aim of the European Training Centre is to be active and helpful in education at various levels, as well as to offer their capabilities and capacities for regional development. Training and Development Agency n. o. - provides services to support regional development and employment, education, social services and humanitarian aid care. State Nature Conservancy of the Slovak Republic (ŠOP SR) - is a state organization with nationwide scope, which provides professional activities in the field of nature and landscape protection. Table 8: Projects of ŠOP SR, in which the model area of PPP Horehron was included Strengthening of Infrastructure in the National Park Slovak Paradise in order 1. to secure commitments related to Natura 2000 Aim of the Improvement of conditions for ensuring the protection of nature, in particular project Natura 2000 within the territory of National Park Slovak Paradise Preparation and monitoring of habitats and species implementation and 2. improvement of public information Implementation of habitats and species monitoring in Slovakia. Aim of the Improvement of dissemination of information concerning nature and landscape project in Slovakia 3. Promotion of Natura 2000 protected areas and species Increase of the environmental awareness in relation to the protection of NATURA 2000 areas and species Aim of the project Specific objective 1: Improve the promotion of sites and species NATURA 2000 Specific objective 2: Increase information of visitors on NATURA 2000 protected areas and species
Administrations of the National Park (National Park Nízke Tatry, National Park Slovenský raj, National Park Muránska planina) – by using of legislative instruments they carry out practical nature and landscape protection in their areas. They are active in different ways of education (environmental education in schools, education of specialists) and in information activities of general public. Together with partners, within various projects, provide education aimed at improving the ability of both state and private conservationists to present their mission, to communicate with public and stakeholders and thus systematically raise awareness about conservation. In this regard, they are focusing in particular on the relationship between nature conservation and tourism and also on the communication with other stakeholders (landowners and forest authorities, large investors, etc.). Slovak Environmental Agency (SEA) - organizes training of state and self-government staff in the field of environment. It is a system of continuous education in the field of nature and landscape protection. For target group of rural municipalities and micro-regional
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associations of municipalities, SEA organizes so called School of Village Renewal in different areas (living environment restoration, landscape revitalization, environmentally friendly solutions to rural infrastructure, planning and programming).
2.4.3. Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. educatio conferenc information educatio nal es, activities informa interac nal projects educatio target group / seminars, (newspaper tion tive projects of nal information workshop s, leaflets, meeting meetin of Administ activities tools s, banners, s gs municipa rations of of PPP informati brochures,... lities National on days ) Park municipality x x x x x x x municipal x x x x x council employees of x x x x x x the village private sector - x x x x x x entrepreneurs civic x x x x x x associations public x x x x x x marginalized x x x x x groups Methods in terms of stakeholders participation: interactive: direct involvement of stakeholders and facilitator, creating on the spot active: direct involvement of stakeholders in order to transfer specific information, knowledge passive: without direct participation Tools for interactive methods: interactive sessions - target group: all sectors operating in the territory, way of organizing: creation of SWOT analysis separately in each municipality and final meeting at level of PPP Horehron - developing a joint SWOT analysis, problem analysis, vision, strategy and logical framework.
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Tools for active methods: information meetings - organized at the beginning of creation of the territory development strategy, target groups: all sector operating in the territory, way of organizing: separately in each municipality, it is given the information about the importance of strategy and ways of its execution, in order to involve of interested groups in the design of territory strategy; conferences, seminars, workshops, information days - organized during development of the strategy - providing information on outputs and intermediate follow-up of strategy to ensure information to stakeholders and exchange of experience with partner PPP; training of PPP Horehron members: preparation of the strategy were executed following activities: Education and training of the RDP and the LEADER approach (10 trained people), Project preparation and implementation, financial management of projects (7 trained people) and Study Tour - 35 participants on the study inspirational journey to Polish partners; educational projects of municipalities - to career self-government employees; educational projects of Administrations of National Parks – with the aim of raising awareness about the systematic nature protection, communicating with stakeholders (landowners and forest authorities, major investors, etc.). Tools for passive methods: information activities (newspapers, leaflets, banners, brochures,...) – published continuously, if necessary: information newspaper - provide information on strategy preparation in the area (delivered to every household) posters - during the strategy preparation located on a public accessible place in each village of PPP - provide information to all sectors on strategy creation Info Bulletin - issued at the end of strategy creation in order to inform all sectors on processed strategy - vision, strategic priorities, specific targets (delivered to every household) map of the area – creation of a common icon map of the territory, promoting the area (natural, cultural and historical values) in order to inform the public outside this territory (national and international level) banners - promotional banners of territory aimed at the information and promotion the territory outwards cookbook – brochure of common traditional dishes of territory in order to promote the territory outwards
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2.4.4. Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis)
Strengths Weaknesses strong human potential underdeveloped human resource capacity the existence of PPP Horehron - lack of expertise and information cooperation between the public, private and lack of funds to keep skilled workers in the civil sector together area public awareness - general and regional low level of education - the problem of newspapers, websites and municipal PPPs, applying for the labor market cable TV and internet information system for municipalities citizen’s indifference to education, information on public affairs, participation the existence of entities involved in the on education education high percentage of marginalized active work of managements of national population groups parks Low Tatras NP, Slovak Paradise NP, Muranska Planina NP Opportunities Threatens possibility of getting grants from EU funds deepening of isolation from the education and other financial resources system from labor market needs development of lifelong learning as a non-systemic solutions for learning guarantee of workforce adaptability support development low wage assessment for project and new forms of advertising and use of leisure-time managers information and communication technology legislative barriers to promote education (ICT) in education and awareness Lifelong Learning missing update of Conception of collaboration with different sectors environmental education in Slovakia training of marginalized population groups sinking quality of human resources outflow of young and educated population to work elsewhere
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2.4.5. Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. Developed of the PPP Horehron Integrated Strategy as the basic strategic territory document was secured on the principles: LEADER approach - bottom-up approach, cooperation within the PPP, innovation and networking. European Landscape Convention responding to the public's wish to utilize high quality landscapes and play an active role in its development; convinced that the country is a key element of the life of the individual and society and its protection, management and planning entail rights and responsibilities for everyone; wishing to respond to the publics wish to enjoy high quality landscapes and to play an active part in the development of landscapes; believing that the landscape is a key element of individual and social well-being and that its protection, management and planning entail rights and responsibilities for everyone; increasing awareness among the civil society, private organizations, and public authorities of the value of landscapes, their role and changes to them. training and education: support and training for specialists in landscape appraisal and operations; multidisciplinary training programs in landscape policy, protection, management and planning, for professionals in the private and public sectors and for associations concerned; school and university courses which, in the relevant subject areas, address the values attaching to landscapes and the issues raised by their protection, management and planning.
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3. ESA report BULGARIA
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3.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
3.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. At national level: Environmental Protection Law The law is а framework in respect of other laws relating to the environment. It regulates a general frame for the conservation of components of the environment - air, water, soils, landscapes, biodiversity, and the procedures for Environmental Assessment (EA) and Evaluation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), permitting, management and financing. Water Act The law provides a unified and balanced water management as a key component of the environment, as a resource in the public interest, protection of health population and sustainable development of the country. Forestry Act This law regulates to the relations connected with ownership and management - management, reproduction, use and protection of forests in Bulgaria. Law for Soil This law regulates the social relations connected with conservation of soils and their functions, as well as their sustainable use and sustained recovery as a component of the environment. Law for Clean Air The law regulates the determination of indicators and standards for air quality, emission limitation, the rights and obligations of the authority control, management and maintenance of air quality. The law regulates the emission limitation of pollutants from mobile and stationary sources. Biodiversity Act The law regulates relations between the state, municipalities, companies and individuals for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in Bulgaria. The law sets requirements for monitoring biodiversity - to organize a system for monitoring the status of biodiversity and creation of databases and geographic information systems for state and determine changes in biodiversity. Protected Areas Act This law regulates categories of protected areas, their purpose and model of preservation and use, announce and governance. The law aims at protection and conservation of protected areas as they are national and human wealth and as a special form of protection of native nature, conducive to the development of culture and science and public welfare.
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At the regional level: Regional Development Plan of SCR Development Strategy of Region Smolyan 2005-2015 At the local level:
3.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. Municipality Development Plans Smolyan region is situated in South Bulgaria, in the central part of the Rhodopes, on a territory of 3194 sq.km, that takes 2,9% of the whole territory of the country. It has borders with the regions of Plovdiv, Pazardjik, Kardjally, Blagoevgrad and to the south - with The Greek Republic. Woodland stretches on a big part of the territory - 2531 thousand decares (70%) and agricultural lands cover 825 thousands decares (25%). The average temperature of the air during the year is 5 – 10’C. The altitude of the region varies from 600 m up to 2191 m. above the sea level. The highest peak is Perelik - 2191 m. There are 10 municipalities on the territory of Smolyan region (Banite, Borino, Devin, Dospat, Zlatograd, Madan, Nedelino, Roudozem, Smolyan, Chepelare), comprising 242 settlements, 8 of them - towns. The population of the region is 135 029 inhabitants. The biggest municipality is Smolyan with 45 626 inhabitants, and the smallest one is Borino - 3997 inhabitants. The region of Smolyan has a wide range of natural and anthropogenic recreation resources and is therefore the most prominent tourist area in the South-East Bulgaria. There are several industrial centers - Smolyan, Roudozem, Chepelare, Zlatograd, Dospat and Devin. Protected natural sites, spacious woodlands, clean rivers and water basins, mineral springs
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3.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. Areas under Natura 2000 in region Smolyan Decision of the In accordence of which EU Name of the Council of State Gazette Directive is identified area Ministers Tsigansko Directive 92/43/ЕЕС for natural Number 85 / gradishte habitats 611 /16.10.2007 23.10.2007 Directive 92/43/ЕЕС for natural Number 85 / Rhodopes - West habitats 611 /16.10.2007 23.10.2007 Rhodopes - Directive 92/43/ЕЕС for natural 611 / Number 85 / Mean habitats 16.10.2007 23.10.2007 802 / Number 107 / Dobrostan EU Birds Directive79/409/ЕЕС 04.12.2007 18.12.2007 122 / 02 март Number 21 / Persenk EU Birds Directive 79/409/ЕЕС 2007 09.03.2007 Trigrad- Number 107 Mursalitsa EU Birds Directive 79/409/ЕЕС 802 /04.12.2007 /18.12.2007
Rhodope mountains - the home of Orpheus, are an oasis of pure and wild nature. The Rhodope Mountains resemble a sea of dark-green hills merging into one another. A single instant of feasting your eye on the beautiful panorama and breathing in the crystal pure air is enough to make you fall in love forever with the magic Rhodopes. For thousands of years people here have been living in harmony with nature, preserving in the mountains recesses wild and untouched corners of beauty combined with an unbelievable variety of plants and wildlife. The Smolyan district has natural protected sites, large forests, rivers and water basins, as well as mineral springs and varied relief. There is a great number of tourist sites like: beautiful scenery along the ‘Dospat’ dam lake (the second biggest dam lake in Bulgaria), which offers opportunities for sports fishing; the unique natural phenomena ‘Trigrad Gorge’, ‘Devil’s Throat’ and ‘Yagodina’ Caves; the ‘Kastrakli’ reserve; Lisichevo, Mursalitza, Chairite neighborhoods; the rocky formation called ‘The Elephant’; the mineral water in Devin; the architectural reserves of Shiroka Luka, and Raykovo (residential district of Smolyan); the wonderful Smolyan Lakes; the architectural monuments in Zlatograd; the historical places of ‘St. Nedelya’ and ‘St. Atanasii’, as well as the ‘Rupite’ Cave. There are a number of important protected areas within the municipality, including the following 4 reserves: Soskovcheto - famous for the rich biodiversity and picturesque scenery; Каzanite - distinguished by its unique wild nature, virgin forest, comprising fir tree, Austrian pine, beech, spruce; Momchilovski Dol- created for the purposes of preserving the century- old Austrian pine forests, whereas Amzovo is for the purposes of maintaining and recovering the Loddon lily. The areas Padala and Rozhenski klabuch are protected under a less strict
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regime. A number of natural sights contribute to the image of the municipality, which has been recognized as a region endowed with beautiful natural scenery. Some of them are Momata, Glavata, Lyatnata gora, Chernoka,Dalboki dol, Katsinsko blato, the famous Smolyanski ezera (Smolyan lakes) and Smolyanski vodopad (Smolyan Waterfall), the rock massifs - Neviastata, Tourlata, Orfeevite Skali.
3.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). Region Smolyan participates in the following established networks: • International Cooperation network, which includes all areas bordered by Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey (11 areas) • Partnership with the Greek border municipalities to develop joint projects and finding partners on the Programme Phare, TBC Bulgaria-Greece, Fund "Small projects", INTERREG III A and INTERREG ІVC • Balkan committee of the Conference of Peripheral and Maritime Regions of Europe, which includes representatives from Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Romania, Albania, Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro and Italy • USAID-LGI-Local Government Initiative • Stability Pact-RIP • UNDP-project "Rodopi" • GTZ-project "Rodopi
3.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. The territory of the Region Smolyan is entirely mountainous. It is located in the Rhodope Mountains, which is one of the most preserved territories with the point of view of biological diversity in Bulgaria and in European Union (EU). One of the main priorities is the development of the tourism. On this base is extremely important building A Sustainable Development Model for Green Mountain Areas. Many projects, relevant to the preserving the biological diversity and supporting the economical development, implement on the territory of the Region /the Project Rhodope and the project for development the tourist cluster in the region/. As particular needs we may describe as follows: The protection of the environment, along these lines are undertaken a set of measures; Improvement of the economical situation of the population by using the specific priorities of the region; Providing the information for the population and guests about the priorities of the preserved environment;
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Supporting the pilot activities, directed to sustainable use of the mountain potential; Development of habits for protection the nature and cleanliness; Providing the preventive activities for monitoring, control and observation the sensitive areas; Providing the preparation and execution of the innovative model for supporting the moving on the territory of sensitive areas; Providing the coordination and support in case of critical situations in the sensitive areas, their outskirts and the region; Supporting the activities in the perimeter around the sensitive areas.
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3.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
3.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. The Development Strategy of the Region Smolyan 2005-2015 is set the following vision: By united efforts to transform the unique characteristics of Region Smolyan into attractive, favorites and prosperous area Some of the objectives with priorities, part of this strategy, are: Objective 3: NATURAL RESOURCES - THE BENEFIT OF THE PEOPLE Priority: The development of tourism with use of natural and historical resources. Measure: The development of tourism with use of natural resources, cultural-historical heritage and opportunities of the region. Increasing competitiveness of tourism through building Sports and Tourist Center “Perelik”. Priority : Environment. Measure: Construction of modern equipment for treatment of waste and eradication of dumpsites. Improving the management and control of the activities for environmental protection. Monitoring of water and wastewater. Wastewater Treatment Plant. Measure: Protection and maintain the biodiversity in protected areas as well as in the whole region. Prevent the erosion processes, stabilizing the landslides, cleaning and enhancement of watercourses and water management. Priority: Development of biological agriculture. Measure: Development of environmental production and use of products suitable for soil and climatic conditions traditional and alternative crops. Refurbishment and modernization of irrigation systems.
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Regional Development Plan of SCR, where the Region Smolyan is located, is developed for the period 2007-2013, which coincide with the period of National Development Plan, National Operation Programme for Regional Development and Municipal Development Plans. Priorities and related measures are: Priority: Conservation and sustainable use of natural and cultural heritage. Measure: Stabilizing the network of protected areas and places of the European network "Natura 2000". Removing the effects of industrial pollution and their limitation.
3.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. We implemented a project RIMADIMA /Risk-, Disaster-Management & prevention of natural hazards in mountainous and/or forested regions, Funded by the INTERREG III B CADSES and co-financed by the PHARE programme in Bulgaria. RIMADIMA aimed to set up a common concept of a "Decision Support System" as tool for an improved decision making process, for planning departments and "Crisis Management Centers". This gave possibilities of interaction between planning and crises intervention. The structure of the concept as well as the demo-version of the DSS software is adaptable for every type of risks and every region of the CADSES area. The total amount of the project budget was 110 495 Euro. The partners on the project came from 7 European countries – Italy, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Bulgaria – the Smolyan Region with Administrative Centre, Smolyan, National Association of small and medium-size business, Sofia /, Republic of Macedonia, Serbia. We were partners on the IBIS project under the Cross Border Co-operation Programme Bulgaria Greece BG 2005/017-454.02.01-10. The project aimed to achieve maximum social and economical cohesion between the border regions developing Internet Business Information System /IBIS/ which was collecting, upgrading and providing business information services and thus increasing the capacity of the participants and users of the network. It provided indirect support to SME’s in the Cross - Border Region (CBR) in order to improve their competitiveness. IBIS improved the environment for establishment of partnerships in CBR and to increase the capacity of the organizations, regional and local authorities and SMEs. It implemented integrated activities with clear cross - border influence. The PLEDGE PARTNERS for Economic Development Foundation and The Region Smolyan start the first cluster in Bulgaria in the region, because of the tourist potential due to the existence of a developed network among tourist and manufacturing companies and organizations that creates a competitive advantage. This region of Rhodope Mountain is recognized as the prime Bulgarian location for all season vacation because of its unique rural, ecological,
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cultural and balneological tourism. Tourists are offered high quality tourist products, manufactured locally. The goal of the UNDP/GEF Rhodope Project is to protect globally significant biodiversity and to promote its sustainable use in the Rhodope Region. The project aims to conserve the unique natural and anthropogenic mosaic of habitats, species and land uses that form the Eastern and Western Rhodope landscapes. Activities are focused in areas with sensitive ecosystems and landscape components, such as priority conservation areas, buffer zones and corridors, as well as more general forest, pasture and agricultural lands. The project is implemented within the whole Rhodope Region, with a focus on two sub- regions – the Eastern Rhodope and the Western Rhodope – comprising more than 40 priority municipalities.
3.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. Opportunities to focus on the Rhodopes, as an attractive destination, with pure nature, clean air, green agricultural products, the favorite tourist services, are the development of a certification mark "Made in the Rhodopes" and "Tourism in the Rhodope Mountains." These ensure that agricultural products and tourism services, carriers of these brands are quality assured. These trademarks will be promoted and will be grounds for raising the standard of living in the Rhodopes, as will attract lovers of environmentally friendly products and tourists who prefer hiking in unspoiled nature. This idea is the base of developed project, with which we applied the program INTERREG IV C, but we did not find a partner.
3.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. Target groups are all 10 municipalities in the Smolyan region, and NGOs with a focus on environmental protection in mountain areas and biodiversity. Stakeholders are following state bodies: Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Water / RIEW / Regional Directorate "Agriculture and forests" State Fund "Agriculture" Forest Association
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3.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis) According to us the major task is to restore the practice of planning at regional level and to find a suitable mechanism for commissioning and development of spatial plans for mountain areas. This practice should be subject for the preparation and approval of a law for the mountain The need for such law is dictated by the specific problems of mountain regions - depopulation and deterioration of social structure, high unemployment, economic backwardness, inefficient farming and animal husbandry, undeveloped infrastructure, problems with environmental protection. In Bulgaria there are 110 mountain communities, which represent almost half of the municipalities in the country. In these areas is focus around 70% of forests in Bulgaria. By analogy with some European laws have provided a number of concessions and incentives to promote economic development and conversion of mountain areas in an attractive location for manufacturing, tourism and providing better public services. SWOT ANALYSIS Of Region Smolyan
Strengths Weaknesses Low income and low purchasing power 1. Preservation of the environment 1. of the population. Availability of natural resources – ore, High unemployment and low educational 2. mineral water, woodland. 2. level. Tourist center with national importance - Minor foreign investments in the region 3. Pamporovo 3. in recent years. New checkpoint on the border with Undeveloped and poorly maintain 4. Greece. 4. infrastructure. 5. Ecologically clean area 5. Decline of major industries. Recreation areas and historical sites for 6. Isolation of main administrative and 6. tourism. industrial centers. Production experience and traditions in 7. Access of the region only “on wheels”, tourism, ski production, food, rural only road. tourism, etc.. 7. 8. Well developed electricity. Opportunities Threats Building new and expanding of the existing Lack of means of financial investment
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1. infrastructure. 1. regional projects. Project applications to European Very limited production of many 2. investment funds. 2. industries. Use of employment programmes to reduce Limited interest of foreign investors in 3. the unemployment. 3. the area and smaller municipalities. 4. Increasing trade with Greek companies. 4. World economic crisis
5. Develop appropriate form of tourism: 5. Depopulation of the region. rural, cultural, etc…
3.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories Local initial groups created by the approach "Leader". The "Leader" is an opportunity to finance projects of the Program for rural development in a given territory, which is a local development strategy that is designed and implemented by local action group of the territory. The "Leader" was founded in 1991 in the EU Member States and was a separate program untills 2007. From 2007 to 2013 it is included in the Program for Rural Development. In French it means the relationship between activities in the areas for rural development. There are several such groups on the territory of Smolyan. Rhodopes Tourist Fair Rhodope tourism fair entitled "MOUNTAINS OF BULGARIA - hospitality in four seasons" - 10.2003, 10.2004, 10.2005, 10.2006, 10.2007, 10.2008, 10.2009 accompanied by discussion seminars on the problems of tourism. In 10.2011 will be the next exchange. Together with the project with the Local Government Initiative / IMS / - LGI - Sofia with the assistance of the U.S. Agency for International Development, USAID, and with the participation of the Regional Administration Smolyan was created a model of partnership and cooperation of local authorities, state institutions, cultural and educational institutions, businesses and NGOs, which is very successful.
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Tourist Cluster: "Tourism Cluster" - a pilot project PLEDGE / USAID Continuing to upgrade the objectives and priorities of the area after completion of the draft the Local Government Initiative / IMS / - LGI - Sofia with the support of USAID, we continued work to improve the competitiveness of the tourism industry, and we manage to attract a new donor program in the face of the PLEDGE U.S.Agency for International Development. The regional Administration Smolyan is working on the project "Development of tourist cluster in Smolyan." with PLEDGE program since November 2003. Project Objectives: The project aims to increase the competitiveness of the region, based on best international experience – creation of networking. In March this year was created a group in the European Parliament for "specific areas". The specific challenges of mountain areas, the outermost islands and sparsely populated areas will be strategic elements of the debate of the European Parliament regarding the future of cohesion policy and the coordination of sectoral policies such as the common agricultural policy, environment, energy, transport, small and medium enterprises, research etc. ..
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 3.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
Typical for the area are forest ecosystems. For millennia there is harmony in the Rhodope Mountains between people and nature. In today's environment and ecosystems are an important policy for the society and government. As a result our mountain has a well preserved biodiversity. 3.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. Management of natural resources and protected areas in the Rhodope Mountains is the result of applying a series of special laws relating to the conservation and sustainable use of mountain. Between different institutions is built a good partnership. Regional Administration - Smolyan has unifying features, while various forms of governance are designed for specific activities, such as committees and advisory councils – for example of forests. Leading state institutions that conservation and management of natural resources and protected areas are the main responsibilities are regional Inspectorate if Environment and water – RIEW – Smolyan – territorial structure of the Ministry of Environment and Water; Regional Forest Directorate – Smolyan – territorial structure of the Executive Directorate of Forestry EFA , State forestry and hunting - united entity, Regional Directorate - Agriculture, Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture - Smolyan Bureau and others. Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water - Smolyan controls over all components and environmental factors - air, water, soil, subsoil, biodiversity. The institution controls all protected areas and areas Natura 2000. Regional Forest Directorate - Smolyan supervise the conservation and use of forests, regardless of their ownership State forest and hunting entries - control the use of state forests and wildlife of the territory they control. Regional Directorate - Agriculture is a leader in conservation of agricultural land. At local and regional lever the importantt role for planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas have the following institutions and documents: - a / institutions like: - Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water - Smolyan - a regional unit of the Ministry. It has a key role in planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas on local and regional level regarding the overall policy environment and Water. - Regional Forest Directorate - Smolyan – it is regional unit of EAF / Executive Forestry Agency / and plays an important role in planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas on local and regional level in the forest. Regional Forest Directorate - Smolyan named after the town of Smolyan, which is also the seat of hits administration. The territory of the Regional Forest Directorate
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Smolyan covers the southern parts of Central Southern Bulgaria and is bordered to the northwest with Regional Forest Directorate - Pazardzhik, north of Regional Forest Directorate - Plovdiv, east of Regional Forest Directorate - Kardzhali, south of Greece and west Regional Forest Directorate - Blagoevgrad. - Regional Administration - Smolyan ( Regional Governor) is a state-regional level, conduct a comprehensive policy for development of the region, including in the field of environmental protection, natural resource use in a certain mode, etc..; - Municipalities - representing local authorities and conduct a comprehensive policy on local level planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas. - Non-government organizations - NGO's - have an active role in the overall process of planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas on local and regional level. Participate in discussion boards and adoption of management plans for protected areas. They are active correctives and express the opinion of citizenship. - State forest enterprises - 6 for the country, one is based in Smolyan. Have important implications for policy planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas of local and regional level for forests. Their main activities are: implementation of forest management in state forests and hunting in the breeding projects; forest management of state forest fund, organization of forest protection and antierosion control measures in forests and forest lands plan and construction in forests and lands in state forests establishment of forests over agricultural lands, forest protection and forest lands and conservation of wildlife and fisheries and other treasures. - Forest cooperatives - have an active role in the overall process of planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas on local and regional level. Participate in discussion boards and adoption of management plans for protected areas. They are representatives of the interests of private forest owners in the region. - Travel Companies - an active role in the overall process of planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas on local and regional level. Participate in discussion boards and adoption of management plans for protected areas. - Bulgarian Red Cross - have an active role in the overall process of planning and management of natural resources and protected mountain areas on local and regional level. Participate in discussions, advices and adoption of management plans for protected areas.
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- Public hunting reserves: preserve and enrich the diversity of the game, breeding, displacement, protection and security of the game; improving habitat; ensuring the biological minimum; achieving and maintaining permitted reserves; organization of the forest fund; conservation of forests and forest lands; reproduction of forests, etc.. - Hunting groups – associations, belong to the Union of Hunters and Anglers in Bulgaria - the preservation and enrichment of the diversity of wildlife, habitat improvement, etc.. - Regional Directorate "Fire Safety and Protection of Population" - a major role in the prevention of fire safety, fire and other forest fires, disaster response, emergencies and accidents of different kinds. - Others. b planning documents such as: - Development Strategy for Smolyan 2005 – 2015; - Rules for the NATURA 2000 areas; - Management plans for protected areas; - Municipal programs for environmental protection; - National strategy for sustainable development of forestry sector in Bulgaria 2006 - 2015 " - Certified forests; - Challenges and priorities in national policy for environmental protection in 2011 - Implement the Conventions for the Integration of environmental issues in regional planning and spatial planning in Bulgaria.
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3.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). For conservation and management of natural resources and mountain on the regional level there is no management plan prepared. Policies for conservation and sustainable use of natural resources are the base in series of strategic documents on the local level – ecotourism plan, municipality environment programmes, operational development plans, etc…
Management plans are done for 5 reserves. NGOs have made 2 more plans for protected areas / with low status /. We are faced with preparation of management plans for protected areas Natura 2000. This activity is expected to start immediately after the announcement with an order in State Newspaper for protected areas according to the Habitats Directive. For some - specific plants and animals have developed separate action plans. For the territory of Smolyan such series are brown bear, chamois, Rhodope cream. On the territory of Smolyan there are 6 reserves that are in good condition and are taking a perfect care of them. In 2004, it was a public discussion for management plans for the5 of reserves - "Soskovcheto", "Shabanitsa", "Kastrakli", "Kazanite," and "Momchilovski dol."
3.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. The management of protected areas is the main function of Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water - Smolyan. The control of protected areas has also the staff of the Regional Directorate of Forestry. The management of these areas is carried out by their owners – for the reserves it belongs to RIEW - Smolyan, and for other categories of property is different, but mainly the control belongs to the state forest funds. Overall coordination and implementation of cooperation between local stakeholders regarding the establishment of management plans are led by the Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water, together with support of programs and active participation of other institutions in the process. It is covered the methods of study of habitats and species, environmental assessment and evaluation of conformity - if it is necessary also the discussions on the wide forums, including the involvement of local communities in decision-making, long-term monitoring and comparative analysis of state and others.
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3.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. To engage the public in the process of establishing management plans is used the approach of discussion and consultation with experts, NGO's, interviews, questionnaires and consultation with stakeholders and others. The objective is higher - a wide range of people, institutions and organizations to feel involved and engaged in conservation, management and sustainable use of natural resources. In the management plans, except the conservation activities for species, ecosystems and landscapes - the objects of protection, they are also directed to opportunities for cognitive and ecotourism. In this connection it is essential to attract representatives of local communities in the process of drafting and approval. Except for reserves and protected species in the Rhodopes are developed also management plans for river basins. This is a good example of cooperation between various institutions, NGOs and citizens. It was held several discussions, which were thoroughly examined the possibility of declaring a particular area of natural park. Active participation was taken by experts as well as representatives of public institutions and all stakeholders. In connection with the policy for protected species, mostly of the brown bear, meetings with people and holding discussions is a compulsory element in the formation of a complex approach, which must ensure both the conservation of species and to ensure rights of the local population. It is necessary to be established a comprehensive, complex, connected with the institutions policy in order to be achieved the sustainable development of the region. Its implementations should be linked to the plans of different organizations and to be coordinated by regional level.
3.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths Weaknesses Low income and low purchasing power of the population. 1. Preservation of the environment 1. Availability of natural resources – ore, High unemployment and low educational 2. mineral water, woodland. 2. level. Many active institutions and good Not enough inter-institutional 3. cooperation. 3. cooperation regarding the activity. Very active non-economic sectors and Lack of necessary resources or their 4. press. 4. central use.
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5. Ecologically clean area 5. Not enough rights and obligations of the Regional Governor and connected Regional Management Very big area belonging to protected are 6. Isolation of main administrative and 6. Natura 2000. industrial centers. 7. Work on projects
Opportunities Threats Establish of complex policy for integration Lack of financial and resources of the 1. protection of environment, sustainable 1. policies. development of the region and better incomes of the population. Project applications to European Lack of sustainable regional model. 2. investment funds for investments. 2. Use of employment programmes in the Limited connection between the results 3. context of environmental protection and 3. for the population and policies and plans. socializing of some objects. 4. Increasing the coordination with 4. Lack of adequate mechanisms, which will institutions and organizations from Greece. lead to fast results regarding the quality of life and incomes of the population, as well as protection of the biodiversity and environment. 5. Development of appropriate forms of cooperation in formulation and implementing the policies on regional level.
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3.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised Preparation of management plans for protected areas is regulated by the Protected Areas Act. For preparation of plans for the reserves in Region Smolyan was assured the state funding. As a good approach and initiative concerning the creation of management plans and policies is drawing up plans on projects. For some protected areas - Trigrad Gorge -the funding for establishing of the management plan was provided by Project "Rodopi" UNDP. The same organization financed a few smaller management plans for protected species. It shall be elaborated the management plans for protected areas - NATURA 2000. As a national policy to provide funding for these plans is the Operational Programme Environment. Similar opportunities gives also the financial regulation LIFE +. The reason that this process of preparing the proposals has not started is that the zones under the Directive of habitats protection did not yet prepared the orders for announcements. It is expected this process to end this year or the beginning of the next
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 3.4 AWARENESS RAISING
3.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. Systematization and dissemination of information aimed at understanding the importance of natural resources of the area was carried out on various projects from different organizations and institutions. Information can be classified in several ways: Specialized and focused on specific scientists and specialists; Specialized on specific target group - cavers, ornithologists, etc.; Aimed at more mainstream visitors, at the local population, tourists, students and others. It is important to note the need for comprehensive coverage of different types of information to be disseminated and promoted, both among tourists and local populations. For millennia there is harmony between local people and nature in the Rhodope Mountains. However, a number of courses are carried out, which are aimed at protecting the environment and the opportunities of the program "Rural Development", as well the special features of Natura 2000. The trainings are for different target groups - children, the engaged in biodiversity conservation, to farmers, a number of regular training and information campaigns are held on the occasion of the week of the forest, carryed out are "green schools" on various projects, and others. The objectives and priorities regarding the overall policy of awareness of the importance of natural resources of the territory, territorial identity, highlighting the natural / protected mountain area, promoting the development of protection of areas and summarize the political, economic and societal activities are reflected in Development Strategy of Region Smolyan 2005-2015, Regional Development Plan of SCR and will be reflected in future plans for protected areas network of protected areas and places of the European Network "Natura 2000",as well as the plans of municipalities.
3.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. Except the state bodies and municipalities, the conservation of natural resources and protected areas are important for NGOs and educational institutions. Educational institutions contribute to the formation of ecological culture. Similar functions have regional Medias, which are open and positives to such topics. Thus is created a public commitment for protection the mountain.
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NGOs work mainly on projects aiming to raise funds for essential tasks associated with the environment. The large numbers of these institutions work on ecological projects. On the territory of the region Smolyan work also all national NGOs. Much of the implemented projects are focus on conservation of endangered plant and animal species. At the moment is implementing a project aimed at reducing conflict bear - man. Most of the projects that implement educational institutions are directed to cleaning and landscaping of land. Other regional projects related to improving opportunities for ecotourism and the creation of eco- paths and information materials. Weakness is that different NGOs do not coordinate among themselves. There is a university in Smolyan with subject "Ecology". Future specialists are prepared there, who are professionally engage in activities for conservation and environmental protection. We have a center for children where are held a number of educational initiatives, drawing competitions, essay, photos, posters and more. List of public-private bodies and organizations are involved in information, training and awareness.
3.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. All residents of the region are interested in being surrounded with clean and preserved nature. As a target group may designate the organizations that use natural resources as raw materials - for example, forest cooperatives, hunting associations, etc. It is necessary more information to reach these groups about opportunities to compensate for the loss of their business when it was needed for sustainable management of resources / compensation because of NATURA 2000 /. All institutions, involved in the problem, are also stakeholders, and for them is very important to increase administrative capacity and to be organized specialized trainings. NGOs are also target group. It is important the NGOs to be informed about what is going on in order to be able to prepare projects to reduce environmental threats. The Business is also a target group, with a particular focus, both local and to potential investors. Target groups are also: Tourists – in different age categories Local people – in different age categories; The owners – of real estate in the region - local people and foreigners.
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3.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis) SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths Weaknesses 1. Very active institutions and Medias 1. Not very well developed and used ICT Availability of universities, schools and Very poorly innovative methods for 2. youth centers. 2. informing training raising awareness Very active non-economic sector. High unemployment and low educational 3. 3. level. Low incomes and purchase possibilities of the population Very big area belonging to protected are Not developed an bad maintain 4. Natura 2000. 4. infrastructure 5. Availability of many natural resources- 5. Isolation from the big administrative and conservation biodiversity, mineral water, economical centers forest lands, protected environment 6. Work on projects Opportunities Threats Building the new and expand the existing Lack of financial and resources for 1. infrastructure 1. complex approach for information, training and awareness Project applications to European Lack of sustainable regional model for 2. investment funds for investments. 2. information, training and awareness. Integrated the innovative methods for Limited connection between the 3. informing, training and raising awareness. 3. information and final results for the population. 4. Improving the coordination between 4. Lack of adequate mechanisms, for institutions and training schools. Providing integrating innovative methods for for a mechanism for informing, training information, training and awareness and raising awareness. 5. Forming of complex policy for information, training and raising awareness.
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3.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. Basic methods used in connection with information, training and awareness are the formation of a maximum range of participants in focus groups. These groups were organized at the establishment of the Regional Tourism Council, development the approaches, formation of tourist cluster, creation of tourism associations, operating under various programs and projects related to environmental protection and balanced development of the mountain. The basic principle is to cover the stakeholders for the target group, allowing for participation of institutions, NGOs, experts, representatives of public and professional organizations. On the basis of voluntary participation, individual representatives may be included in the work of different target groups. There is no overall strategy regarding information, training and conscious actions and activities performed for the target group. As a rule we try to use the upgrade approach made so far. Initiative - a project "Let's change the way". The idea for the project was born from the fact that inspections by regulatory authorities consistently identified that the roads are significantly contaminated. The reason is the disposal of bottles, containers, etc…thrown from passing cars. In this regard, the project was developed with two main directions Improving the conditions - putting bins in roadside. Educational reform - putting billboards with the message of environmental protection and announcing for not disposing of waste at unauthorized locations. Such an initiative is implemented for the first time in Bulgaria, the target group are all traveling in the area. The result may indicate that Region Smolyan is one of the leading area of cleanliness and lack of illegal dumpsites. Reported the usefulness of the project this year by the MEW are provided funds for 2 new billboard and renew the old . Project - Reducing the conflict bear – person The project is still being implemented by leading organizations in Bulgaria Ministry of Environment and Waters and the association "Balkans". The aim is through awareness campaigns and preventive measures to reduce tensions between protected species and local residents, giving rise to a series of damages that bear applied to agricultural property. As a target group can identify farmers in the Rhodopes. For sustainability of results, RIEW - Smolyan also developed a similar project. Such project proposals can be made for other protected species, important for biodiversity conservation, which cause damage to agricultural property - such as cormorants, predators, birds of prey. The aim is to provide a balance between conservation of protected species and protect the interests of local people.
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Projects aimed at promoting the network of protected areas Natura 2000 In the region are realized several similar projects, the objective of which is maximum number of people to be familiar with both opportunities and with the prohibitions related to protected areas. Depending on the beneficiary of the project, respectively, the target groups are different - farmers, forest owners, operators in tourism etc. As a general impression is that ignorance of information is the leading cause of opposition to the network, but after an awareness campaign the attitude has completely changed and seek funding opportunities for protection environment activities. Projects for forest certification Several similar projects are realized, and as a result several forest enterprises are certified. Narrow target group here are foresters working in these areas, but overall benefits are for the entire population in these areas. Priority is given to conservation forestry practices, with lower production but higher costs, but at the expense of higher price of the material and preserved forest ecosystems. This approach partly duplicated the purpose of conservation of protected areas in the Habitats Directive. Projects for creation of ecotourism. Similar projects have been implemented throughout the area. The objective is on the based of natural resources to enable the development of new tourism product. Target group is the population of project areas. Similar projects have been implemented in municipalities, where the leading industry years ago was mining. Thus, seeking an alternative of heavy economy, as all efforts are aimed at creating a new ecological livelihoods for local people. Projects for protection the importance species. On the territory of the region was implemented a series of projects, aimed to protect or priority species for conservation of wild flora and fauna. The aim is to raise awareness of local population for conservation status and benefits of protection of the species. As a result of these projects have created attractive tourist products - observations of the brown bear and other wild animals.
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3.5 CONCLUSIONS
Starting from the highest unemployment in the country and the low standard of living in Region Smolyan, it is important to develop and implement as fast as possible complex policy and mechanisms, binding mountain living, a clean natural environment and preserved biodiversity with real income of the people now, not in the future. Of utmost importance is the realization of fast, clear, effective mechanisms to support the harmonious co-existence and life in the mountains with the standard of living in real terms, not relying on future benefits. In summary it can be noted that in many guidelines relating to the conservation of protected and sensitive areas, still there is lack of sufficient information. The available information is often too specialized, scientific and can not easily be interpreted and understood by local communities. Ignorance of the benefits and fear of restrictions is significant reason for a negative attitude towards protected species, protected areas and territories. In this connection it is necessary to continue the process of actively informing and involving different groups of local populations in decision-making, including preparation of management plans. It would be useful to present best practices from other countries which have achieved good results in this area. The examples can be with following direction: Reducing the conflict between protected species and man – presenting the legislation of other countries, as well as their direct action, taken on national and regional level; Establish, manage and control the network of protected areas - NATURA 2000. The use of protected areas, protected territories and protected species for sustainable tourism product. Examples of small businesses at the regional level, based on the preserved nature. Examples of policies aimed at population in mountain areas - legislative incentives, tax breaks, allowances, deductions and concession rights for local communities, forming of local and regional funds and budgets, etc…
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4. ESA report HUNGARY
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4.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
4.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. Act LIII of 1995 on the General Protection of the Environment Act LIII of 1996 on the Protection of Nature 27/2004 (XI.1) Regulation of the City Council of the Local Government of the city of Kőszeg on the Local Protection of Natural Values and on the Local Rules of Nature Protection 10/2008 (IV.1.) Regulation of the City Council of the Local Government of the city of Kőszeg on the Amendments of Regulation 27/2004. (XI.1) on Local Protection of Natural Values and on the Local Rules of Nature Protection
4.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area The Kőszeg micro-region is situated in the north-western part of Hungary, on the Austrian border. It is part of County Vas in the Western Transdanubia Region of the country. The micro-region is at a roughly equal distance from Budapest and Vienna, the nearest larger town is the county seat, Szombathely. The area is situated on the eastern side of the Kőszeg Mountains, the easternmost foothills of the Alps. The highest peak is Mount Írottkő (Geschriebenstein, “Carvenrock” or “Written stone”) with 882 m. It also includes part of the Vas Hills. It is a region of transition from the mountains in the west to the soft hills of the east, with a multitude of small springs, hidden valleys, picturesque villages, and the stream Gyöngyös as its spine. The subalpine climate (cool summers and mild winters) makes the region an ideal place for various open-air activities (hiking, biking etc.). Due to the favorable climate of the area, the lack of heavy industry, and the high level of forestation, the air is much purer and better than in other parts of the county, making the micro-region a preferred destination for people suffering from asthma and other respiratory problems. The area is spotted with small villages (a characteristic feature of the whole county); the only town is Köszeg with its cca. 12.000 inhabitants (2/3 of the micro-region’s population). As most rural areas, it is affected by the aging of the population and – though less than most – migration to urban hubs. During the communist era, the micro-region was next to – and in a sense a part of - the Iron Curtain, thus forbidden to regular tourists and visitors for at least 3 decades. This seclusion had a twofold effect. On the one hand, by the late 1970s-early 1980s the area became neglected, the infrastructure outdated, the people moving away. The only notable exception was the town of Kőszeg, which has become a showcase town for foreign (mostly Austrian) tourists. The 1980/90s saw the boom of what could be called “dental tourism”, i.e. the relatively cheap dental services attracted a huge number of Austrian visitors. This (together with some
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other services) generated a good number of small businesses and a fair income for Kőszeg and Szombathely. The other effect the relative seclusion had on the micro-region was that it was left untouched. No new developments were allowed in the border region, thus the natural environment and the ecosystem remained more or less intact. While this had a lasting effect on the region’s development, it also contributed to the survival of the green landscape and the traditional culture and livelihood of the people The micro-region has been a calm spot throughout the turmoils of Hungarian history, thus the people here have acquired a rather tolerant attitude, and the peaceful coexistence of ethnic groups – Hungarians, Croatians and the German-speaking Swabians has a long tradition here. The preservation of the language and culture of minorities, as well as of the local traditions of the majority Hungarians is a priority of the municipalities of the micro- region .
4.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. The geomorphological features of the terrain are very varied. Its most dominant part is the Kőszeg mountains, with its 300-700 meter height, which slopes south-eastwardly and is divided from the 200-300 meter high formations of the Vas hills by valley of the Gyöngyös. The western part of the micro-region consist of and forest-covered mountains. The mountains are characterised mostly by slate and schist. Due to the geological structure of the mountains, the region abounds in springs. The flora and fauna show Alpine influences. The dominant trees are oaks, beeches and hornbeams. A characteristic feature of the area is the great number of chesnut trees. These have become a symbol of the micro-region, and have been an inspiration to various local products and activities. The region is home to several protected species, e.g. the Alpine cyclamen, the martagon (lilium martagon), the three-leaved bittercress (Cardamine trifolia), or the rare deer fern (Blechnum spicant). The wildlife is also mainly Alpine in character. Some rare species are the bullfinch, the fire salamander, the stone crayfish, or the pericallia matronula. In the valleys and in the eastern part of the micro-region small streams run, often surrounded with marshy fields, alder swamps, to the Gyöngyös, the main stream of the micro-region. A special note must be made of the so-called Cák conglomerate, a unique association of plants, named after the nearby village. These areas are particularly exposed to damage, as they more accessible than the mountains, and are often situated near a village. The micro-region roughly covers the territory of the Írottkő Nature Park (4.305 ha). established in 1997 as an extension of the former Kőszeg Protected Area. The Park’s 25 % is Natura 2000 area, 90% is Protected Area (overlapping with Natura 2000), 13% of which are under special protection. It contains 7 nationally protected areas and a number of locally protected spots. Apart from the natural environment, the micro-region has a rich historic and cultural heritage that is almost as sensitive as the ecosystem. The most famous monument is the Castle of Kőszeg, known for halting the invasion of the Turkish Empire in 1532. After the
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Turkish siege, the town – under the direct rule of the king as a free royal town - prospered for a long time. As wars in later centuries mostly avoided it, the Kőszeg of today boasts of a variety of historic buildings, and a town centre than seems unchanged since the 15th-16th century. The small villages have managed to preserve at least a part of their heritage. The row of historic wine cellars in Cák is listed as a national monument. The St. Vitus Chapel in Velem is a local site of pilgrimage as well as an important archeological site.
4.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). European Destinations of Excellence 2009. The Írottkő Nature Park received the title of winning destination in a 2008/2009 tender of the European Commission. The goal of the project is to draw attention to the value and diversity of European touristic destinations and to support those destinations that develop a socially, culturally and environmentally sustainable form of tourism. Alpannonia Austrian- Hungarian cross border cooperation (2008-2011.) As a result of the Alpannonia Austrian- Hungarian cross border cooperation programme, a nearly 150 km long hiking path was created, which leads from the south Austrian Semmering to Fischbach and finally to the city of Kőszeg. This hiking trail is filled with natural and cultural treasures alike and can be traversed in 6-7 days in 15-20 km long segments from the eastern part of the Alps all the way to Pannonia. The goal of the project is to advance the touristic utilisation of the „Alpannonia” hiking path, the renewal of its present natural and cultural capabilities, the creation of new touristic spots, increasing the attraction of the Kőszegi mountain range in the eyes of investors, and the strengthening of its touristic profile. In the event that this happens, Kőszeg could become the capital of Hungarian hikers, being the endpoint of the national „blue tour” and the „alpannonia” trail, which leads from southern Austria, Burgenland, and to Vas County. The Írottkő Natúrpark Association provides the coordination between the Austrian and Hungarian partners, attending tourism fairs, preparation of publications, tour events, the development of nature trails in the Kőszegi Mountains, and painting the alpannonia lane markings and the placement of instructional boards. The Styrian Joglland-Waldheimat and Wiener Alpen region in Lower Austria, use their funds mainly on marketing activities, map editing, travel to participate in exhibitions, study tours and workshop organization, website development, tour guides training. Hungary and Burgenland in contrast, have large-scale infrastructure investments implemented, including the renovation of the Írottkő tower, rest areas, information points, and playgrounds. Kőszeg’s project includes the renovation of historic sites and creating new tourist attractions. Bozsok is establishing a recreational park and information tables in the municipality, Cakó is renovating the Hordómosó spring, and building a playground and a rain parking, in Velem they are building the bridge that leads to the Nuchy promenade, renovating the water supply for the fountain, and adding additional items to their playground. Vas County’s
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largest project in the Archaeological Park in Velem, but is also organising study tours and events, and also undertook to publish journal articles.
4.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities.
Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Unique sub-alpine 4 settlements are Environmental The streams may climate affected by protection program become swamps if pollution of public already set in the flow of water is roads along main motion in many not solved road 87 settlements Attractive natural Areas of Burning is restricted Management of sorrounding, unmanaged due to pollution the ragweed is special natural ragweed concerns needed values Clean air, there is Littering along the Illegal waste-dump no industry nearby roads and the edge areas not managed of the forest The condition of the water is generally good Noise pollution is within the normal range Under the maintenance of the Őrségi National Park Directorate
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4.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
4.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. There seems to be a lack of an integrated strategy regarding the protection of the environment, sustainable development and related issues. The documents, policy papers we gathered list a number of priorities from waste management to the local protection of eg. historic trees. The most important priorities of the micro-region have been outlined in the 2007-2013 Development Strategy. The strategy paper names three overall aims: 1. Enhancing the economic and tourism potential of the micro-region through developing attractions (cultural, academic, leisure etc.) 2. Creating an attractive way of life making it worthwhile (and safe) to work and relax in the region. 3. Strengthening mutual respect and trust to increase civil/public involvement in decision-making. Based on these, the Strategy enumerates four objectives: 1. Development of the economy: increasing competitiveness of local enterprises and creating jobs 2. Development of tourism: increasing the number of visitors and lengthening the tourist season to increase income 3. Development of public services: meeting the public demand, offering higher standards of service 4. Development of infrastructure, protection of the environment The strategy maintains that all the above objectives must be implemented with economic and environmental sustainability in sight. Local enactments that are in place: 27/2004 (XI.1) Regulation of the City Council of the Local Government of the city of Kőszeg on the Local Protection of Natural Values and on the Local Rules of Nature Protection 10/2008 (IV.1.) Regulation of the City Council of the Local Government of the city of Kőszeg on the Amendments of Regulation 27/2004. (XI.1) on Local Protection of Natural Values and on the Local Rules of Nature Protection The municipality of the nature park has the opportunity to create environment protecting laws that can be used on their territory. These enactments can make the existing laws more strict and can expand the list of values to be protected. They can declare any natural object/creature protected that is deemed worthy by the nature park. If these municipalities take advantage of these opportunities and coordinate their activities, they can achieve a great deal of progress in altering the future of the nature parks for the better. A perfect example for this in Hungary is the work of the Pro Vértes Conservationist Foundation, which
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has declared thousands of hectars of land protected with the help of the municipalities near the Vértes mountain range. The enactments should encompass the below topics: create a chain of locally protected territories declare local fauna and flora under protection kipusztulással veszélyeztetett fajok vörös listájának elkészítése unified conservational regulations
4.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. In the region there is almost a complete lack of local products and economy. This is surprising, since the region has a favorable geographic location, climate and soil. There is a significant amount of wine, fruit and vegetable crops, however the wine is only of touristic relevance while the fruit and vegetable produce are for self-sufficiency. The local economy is on a level where the production and consumption are directly linked. This type of economy is traditional, as it is present in many different places in the world, and it is proven to be effective as many are discovering it to be the alternative to consumerism, while also being one of the tools of economic development in areas that are financially depressed. The local economic development is not simply just local economic policy, rather it is the stimulus of the local market and the encouragement and expansion of regional economic and commercial relations according to the local development methods. It is an economic stimulus, thus sustaining and creating employment opportunities as well as mobilising the community, expanding the local cooperation, strengthening local identity and improving the relations between the cities and the countryside. The stimulation of local production (products, services, foods) develops the regional economy, creates jobs, expands the region’s income capabilities, and strengthens its autonomy. In numerous cases, the lack of knowledge inhibits the production of local goods. This is why it is important to initiate courses that teach these methods. New entrepreneurial areas must be found in which the traditions should be kept, then after the designation of the area, the business and the product development should be realised. A continuous business and professional counseling system must be maintained for both the operating and the new businesses. Emphasis should be placed on influencing the citizens/consumers, entrepreneurs and municipalities, the purpose being dissemination of a sustainable lifestyle, which aids the autonomy and self-sustenance of striving settlements and regions. It is important to increase the number of producers in the region and to implement a cooperation that breeds unified production and sales. Also missing is the presence of a unified body that helps the local products reach the market. Lawmaking in the recent past has been beneficial to rural income and employment expansion.
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The main amendments of the 4/2010 VM Regulation on small producers (previously 52/2010) its most important amendment is that animal products (milk, eggs, raw meat) and refined small producers products (cheese, jam, sausage) are vendable in the said county or Budapest, or at the most at a 40 km distance to the seller, as well as shops or restaurants.
4.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. Organisation of companies’ cooperation to ensure market access for local products - Regional Employment Pact of Kőszeg and Felső-Répcement project plan (2012-2013) The goal of the project: creation of new employment opportunities and the aid of sustainable business operation through the production of local goods. Furthermore, the propagation of a sustainable lifestyle, encouraging the consumption of healthy food products, the strengthening of local businesses through the sale of local products, stimulating employment, increase of local taxation of businesses. Direct goals: Development of the kőszeg market in order to aid the sale of local goods, expand the market for environment friendly local food products, and the implementation and marketing of new local brands. Developing the cooperation of local producers. It is important to increase the number of producers in the region and to implement a cooperation that breeds unified production and sales. Must continue the construction and development of facilities that ensure the sale of local products (markets, market halls, local shops), as well as the infrastructural development of production and processing (cold storage, food refinery). The market of kőszeg is a suitable location for supplying local products, but infrustructural development is needed for this. Activities: Integrating the market of Kőszeg to sell local products (technical planning, image development, public procurement) Induction of a trademark: development and induction of a frame of criteria and a trademark that reflects the region’s environmental attitude for the local products that are to be issued Procurement of tools communications campaign, organizational development: providing food information sites and services, dissemination and promotion of the local trademarks and qualified products shops among the locals, information on the environmental benefits of local trade in foodstuffs to customers of the shops/markets and the public alike, and development of the sales network that connects local producers. Required information and publicity
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New Széchenyi Plan- Enterprise Development Program The local farmers' markets need development that is necessary to create the opportunity for farmers to sell their products in their place of residence taking into consideration the rural characteristics, wherethe infrastructure of small markets are needed. This can establish that the local farmers can sell their products in a cultured sorrounding. In regard of local and complex conservationist initiatives it is important to have local products and services, sales of proprietary design These systems serve the resident society's products and facilitates, the sale of which contributes to increased employment in rural areas and strengthens the role of rural population retention.
4.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. The council of the micro-region, as project partner (self-explanatory), and also as a forum for all the municipalities of the micro-region. The Írottkő Nature Park: it is the single most important organisation in the micro-region focusing on the protection of the environment. It is also an important tourist destination, with a growing number of visitors from Hungary and all over Europe. It has extensive experience in cross-border and transnational projects, especially in the field of active and green tourism. Due to the involvement in various international activities, the Nature Park has a large network of various actors on all levels (local to European) and in most sectors. The current project, with its “holistic” approach is at the heart of the Nature Park’s work, and will provide the Nature Park with the opportunity to learn from the experience of the partner regions facing similar challenges, and to expand its network. The municipality of Kőszeg: it is the centre of the micro-region in every sense of the word. As such, it has a decisive role in all decision- and policy-making processes. Most historic monuments, museums, as well as cultural events are situated here. The town council has extensive experience in cross-border and transnational projects, a know-how that – through this project – might be transferred to smaller municipalities and other organisations in the micro-region. The project will also provide the town with the opportunity to learn from the experience of the partner regions facing similar challenges, and to develop and implement an integrated strategy within its competence area. The Kőszeg Enterprise Guild (“Ipartestület”): as the local equivalent of the chamber of commerce, the Guild is an umbrella organisation of the entrepreneurs of the micro-region. Although membership is optional, most of the local enterprises are guild members. Thus the organisation has close ties with local businesses, and knows the local economy, its problems and needs.
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4.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis) Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Advantageous A complete lack of mobilize the local Some laws make it geographical the region’s own community, harder to sell the situation, climate local products and expanding the local local products and and soil economy cooperation the marketing network, channels are not well strengthening the regulated local identity, renews the city's rural relationship
Many wine, fruit and A lack of a local the local production A lack of marketing vegetable crops economy spurring of products and communication strategy developed by (absence of funds) encouraging the local economy, creates jobs, increasing the income earning capacity of the region
Income and Lack of knowledge Developing the Agricultural employment inhibits the cooperation of the companies and increase in the production of local local manufacturers, manufacturers co- countryside due to products producers ops have the advantageous (establishment of a transformed or have law changes manufacturers sales gone bankrupt and (4/2010 VM decree) organisation) the structure of ownership and manufacture has changed Initiative in order to Lack of course and The Hungarian domestic economy sell local products: training initiation landownership does not allow for organisation of needs revision self-employment, programs, events because the economic scale of production would remain below normal and sales are
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not solved Social Arrangement of Input prices have metamorphosis has undivided common increased (fertilizer, changed the territories plant protector) structure of the local product prices have towns decreased The change of The regulation of Agriculture is consumer habits markets is overregulated and because of the indispensible inspection by the appearance of chain authorities does not stores help production A decrease of Project Regulation of income is considered Development: countryside tourism typical in local organisation of and hospitality is not agriculture business sufficient cooperation, in order to access local produce market New Széchenyi plan- enterprise development program
4.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories Biotájház -Lukácsháza It is a multi-purpose enterprise which aims at showcasing the traditional rural lifestyle at the turn of the 20th century. Far from being a museum-like establishment, it has managed to maintain the balance between economic success and environmental protection. Objectives: - showcasing traditional rural life as a sustainable, environmentally friendly way - promoting local products (esp. in gastronomy) - increasing active visitor participation - promoting local culture Main activities: - Buildings constructed with traditional technologies - Presenting traditional life and work (animal husbandry, crafts)
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- Interactive activities to enhance the experience and promote participation - Offering authentic accommodation - Promoting/selling local products (eg. honey, wine) - Guided tours of the area - Special programmes for schools - Major role in creating a local brand (“Zöldhatár”- Green Border) Target groups/beneficiaries - Tourists interested in local culture/traditions - Schools and pupils (local identity, awareness-raising) - Local businesses (marketing/promotion opportunity) Zöldhatár internet webshop- www.zoldhatar.hu The Írott-kő Region Leader action group and the Zöldhatár website can be found in Alpokalja, which holds together the settlements of the Kőszegi mountains, Kőszeghegyalja and the valley of the Gyöngyös stream (18 settlements, population: 10,173). The region's agriculture, next to the remaining small number of large plants, traditional small-plot of individual and family-based agriculture, where the technological sophistication is not significant. Because of this there is an opportunity to view all the different kinds of products made with traditional and ecologic procedures by the hands of professionals in a stunning environment. The site intends to provide assistance so that anyone interested gets comprehensive information about the Alpokalja agriculture. Application for an honorific title- Írottkő Nature park Association The undersigned Natúrparkért Stone Association announced the honorific title applications every year, for which the settlements’ citizens, service providers, artisans, primary producers may submit applications in several categories: Hotels, restaurants, products, hosts and tidyest reception. The winning of the title is based on the jury’s set of certain criteria to see if the subject is worthy to obtain the copperplate. For the contest a kind of rating system was developed so not only the house, garden or products, and the work invested in it would be known, but the arriving tourists can look at the recipients of the award in a different manner. Flavours of the Nature Park- open air event series (every year in October- location: Kőszeg) Flavors of the Nature Park title refers to the first established Írottkő Nature park, which draws the agglomeration of settlements near Kőszeg that are related economically and naturally. The goal of the event is the research and presentation of local traditions in gastronomy, but other regional cultural traditions can be found here also, such as the market held on Orsolya day. The event has takes place since 2003. The visitors can taste all the different flavours of fall that is distinctive in the vicinity of Kőszeg, such as local wines, honeys, „mézeskalács”, and „kürtöskalács”. The locals can sign up for a race with their brought baked goods, which can be bought, and the income is donated to a charity of their choice.
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Saint George day craftsmen fair (every year- April location: Kőszeg) The purpose of the Saint George fair is to give a chance to the most talented craftsmen in the region to showcase their talent. In the colourful fair not only the region’s craftsmen visit, but even masters from the most distant lands come to show their tradition bearing skills. There are numerous cultural and entertainment programs for visitors. The fair displays the local bio products. Day of open cellars- (every year-June location: Kőszeg ad vicinity) The goal of the event is to give an opportunity to people interested in wine culture to get to know the country’s wine producing territories, wine makers and cellars. The intention of the organisation is to boost the wine tourism and to endear cellar visitations with a larger audience, which is one of the purposes of this event. In 2010 more than 150 wineries, and nationwide around 10,000 visitor took part in the festival. The visitors were awaited by professional crew, who had to serve at least three of their wines for a cheaper price to the guests. The event planners offer many types of promotional opportunities to the partaking wineries, which can mean appearance in different types of media.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 4.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
4.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. The basic objective of development programs, to ensure the successful development of the Nature Park in the individual fields within corresponding developmental directions and specific projects to identify, with an indication of priority. These priorities are not, however, to be designated as long as a single definition does not specify what is a nature park, the ensurance of its establishment, its developmental concept and the duties of its basic program directives. Concept of the natural park: The Natural Park of the European model, large areas of uniform cultural landscape, has uniform image, is partially situated on a landscaped area, the majority is divided into areas visitable by the public and protected areas, and realises the sustainable development that is built upon complex territorial development. Its existence stems from the cooperation between its surrounding settlements and other entities, and through its operation it creates harmony between environmental protection and economy, the land- foremost due the beauty of nature- is well suited for tourism, relaxation and vacation. The establishment of general criteria: nature conservation, cultural unified, coherent identity, financial background, the background of existing infrastructure, policies. Function: value protection, education, recreation, tourism, regional development Objective: Complex area development based on the principle of sustainable development, inter-municipal co-operation so as to ensure the long-term retention of population, equality of opportunity, coordination of the natural and artificial environment in high-quality operation. On the territory of Írottkő Nature park there are two national and three locally significant protected natural areas. Of these, the Landscape Conserving Area of Kőszeg is the leading area. Currently, this area, as well as the closely related Kőszegi sphagnum Wetland conservation area and the garden of Chernel has the necessary management and technical personnel to carry out maintenance works. Two more nature conservation areas of local importance are the Kőszegdoroszlói csarabos and the Kőszegi and sycamore tree, which are less known to the general public. The diversity of the landscape and the uniqueness and beauty of the natural park is largely determined by the value of experience. The unique features must be preserved, as they increase the value of the cultural landscape. To develop, protect, care for the nature and the landscape! Natural assets to be spared! Every effort should be made in order to reduce the environmental burden and the to use the gentlest possible technology. The leisure and recreation offered by the land should be ensured. The territorial plan of the settlements should be done in harmony with the nature park. One can still find historic buildings and the renovation of historical type buildings must be done. The natural park is responsible for supporting the conservation of cultural traditions.
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Denomination of bodies and cooperatives Objectives County institutions, offices Rural development, shaping of financial support, need to help entrepreneurs Settlement municipalities Territorial governing, preparation of territory utilisation plans, development for mass tourism Scientific and training institutions Establishment of environmental awareness, cultural events sharing knowledge of local geography, fauna, flora and history with tourists and locals Local, regional mediums Setting higher standards for public work Social and economic bodies (authorities, Reconciliation and solution of conflicts professional organisations, non-profit arising from differing goals and interests organisations) The general objectives of the tasks can be designated as follows: National and local development initiatives, organization, order of appointment ensures that the tight framework of the European Union, regional development grants accordance with the principles being used, thus creating the possibility of a self-indicating process that results in the advancement of the territory. The 5 EU basic principles are the following: subsidiarity, partnership, programming, addition, source concentration Past the direct regional needs, the development program should emphasize the demands of tourism, the relevant territorial development as well as the minimalisation of environmental burden.
4.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). Handling plan- Írottkő Nature Írottkő Nature park’s logical structuring of the development plan: In the system of the natural park conservation provides the most fundamental limitation. Nature of operation of the park is fully aligned with the nature conservation legislation. Along with tourism, nature conservation is the factor which has the greatest responsibility in the nature park. Besides the fact that the natural values must be introduced to the widest spectrum of visitors we must also take care not to forget conservational values. Tourism represents the development area, which is in accordance with the principles of sustainable development of natural and artificially preserved and recovered values in the natural park and are sold to the outside world, the visiting tourists. Transport and accessibility is essentially the area uprooted from infrastructure. Separate treatment is justified because it
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is a "channel" on which the arrival of tourists to the nature park changes their location, situation. Strategies for nature conservation: Nature conservation: Management of conservation Guarding, inspection, creation of boundaries, sustenance and reconstruction of habitat, reintroduction of fauna, individual protection
Education, demonstration Lectures, field trips, tours, establishment and maintenance of museums and sightseeing trails
Research Exploration of nature reserves, recording changes and disclosing it to the public
Conservational propoganda Distribution of guidebooks, posters, stickers, postcards, badges, fliers, presence in the media
Official work Administrational activities employed in the name of conservation under existing written law
From the 5 basic activities, the first 4 must be utilised in the conservation strategy of the nature park. The official work stemming from a lack of the base activity will not be executed due to the fact that the nature park is a NGO and cannot replace the activities of the government. CONSERVATIONAL MANAGEMENT: Guarding, inspection: conservational guard service, (conservator: Principality of Fertő- Hanság National Park ) at present 1 person. With the increase of tourism, the damage to the park will also grow, therefore constant guard duty is needed. Objective is to increase the number of guards. Utilisation of civil park guards- a new opportunity Establishment of volunteer civil park guard- can be utilised, however with a lack of legal regulation, it can only be based on citizens’ rights.
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Territorial separation- means the marking of all protected natural areas, borders and values with information carrying devices. It is important to devise a table system that fits in the environment, is universal, maintainable, and in time replaceable. Sustenance of habitat- preservation of protected natural areas Habitat mosaic sustenance- a unique technique that usually requires manual labor Sustenance of larger habitats- forest, grassland farming can not be separated if maintaining the status management control, to influence the main form of activity. Traditional usage to fit into the landscape, nature-friendly technologies, promoting the use of the target. Maintenance of the park’s scenery- this activity builds upon the previous two, expanded with the planned landscaping of the relevant settlements. Fauna reintroduction- Reintroduction of animals who have lost their natural habitats, but could potentially survive. In the case of plants, this process is already under way with some success: the plant named „árnika” has been reintroduced to Kőszeg. It would be a realistic attempt to try to reintroduce the „uhu” and the „siketfajd” from the animal world. Individual protection- Special protection of sensitive and endangered creatures from specific threats. At the moment it is utilised in two instances in the area of the park. The „széles levelű harangvirág” is protected by an electric fence, while the „vörös áfonya” is surrounded by a barbed wire fence. EDUCATION: Lectures, field exercises and tours- At the moment the Fertő-Hanság national park provides tours only from time to time or when it is scheduled for schools- environmental awareness must be awoken in adults and not just youth. Target groups are kindergartens, schools, tourist groups, educational programs, etc. Museums- At the moment there are two museums in operation that are relevant to nature conservation. In the „Stájer” houses there is a forestry musem, while in Kőszeg in the Chernel garden, one can take a glance at the memorial museum of Chernel István. There is a planned establishment of a natural history museum inside the Óház look-out tower. Footpaths- Continuation of the Kőszegi Conservational Footpath, and the establishment of a footpath that showcases the species of local trees and sylviculture. RESEARCH: The Kőszeg mountain range is botanically one of the most explored areas in our country. In respect of animals, this is not so. The last complex exploration of fauna was 50 years ago on this territory. At the moment the investigation of amphibians, reptiles, avians and insects is under way with varying intensity. The monitoring of specific animal types will have to play a bigger role in the future. With the specific species will have to be tracked continuously to see the effects on the environment of the growing amount of tourism. The nature park has to encompass this research activity, and for the organised initiation of zoological studies the induction of the College of Sopron would be practical. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION PROPAGANDA:
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Next to adequate supply it is a profitable activity. In its present form, the sale of postcards, stickers, badges, posters, publications, is limited. In the future, need to develop in two directions: the Írottkő Nature Park typical propaganda materials shall be produced to broaden the range of products. THE FUTURE GOALS AND PHILOSOPHIES OF ÍROTTKŐ NATURE PARK: The nature park carries the seeds of change that can bring many opportunities. Many settlements of the nature park will have their own unique offerings, which under the brand name Írottkő Nature Park would have a tremendous impact on tourism. Mainly cultural, historic, environmental, folk and lifestyle tradition values are what the park offers as attractions. 1. Protection functions related to tourism development goals 2. Training functions associated to tourism development goals 3. Holiday Function fulfillment overall objectives 4. Area Development function, the general control objectives for tourism, agriculture, industry
4.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. Regional and international linkages, collaborative projects and partnerships
Development of connecting points to Őrségi Nature Park Goal: action of the first two hungarian nature parks Objective: description of the fields of cooperation, including the entities and realisation of conception Formalisation of professional relationships between twin cities, nature parks inland and abroad Goal: attend to the relationship between foreign settlements to advance formal and informal diplomatic structures. Objective: Kőszeg, Velem, and Kőszegszerdahely have strong international links. The other municipalities also seem willing. The organization of maintenance is a municipal duty. In the field of professional relations develops and formalizes relationships especially with sibling nature parks and their organizations. Preparation is under way to develop a relationship with the Austrian nature park. It is also important to maintain relationships with organisations inside the country: National Rural and Agrotourism Alliance, County and Rural Tourism Alliance Integrating famous people into the affairs of the Nature Park
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Goal: Including of famous citizens of the Kőszeg vicinity in the activities of the Nature Park Objective: Protocol invitations to important personalities who patron the event and also open the celebration, act as an active participant of the event, broadcast the Nature Park’s interests and philosophies,
4.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. One of the most important tasks of Írottkő Nature Park is to draw the public's awareness onto the nature park, and what it means to live and be there. Therefore the Park’s workers' attitudes and deeds are very important especially because by their behavior they identify the Park. Special emphasis is paid to marketing communications activities. Marketing communication activities of Írottkő Nature Park, management plan written, printed media: Preparation of the relevant information brochures and documents Creation of postcards of the park Designing multilingual guiding materials Event calender Park guidebooks Designing an Írottkő Park card PR- activities: Establishing and maintaining channels of dissemination Didactic development of info materials Establishment of a press officer position to keep in contact with the press A minimum of one annual season opening press conference to convey the yearly plans The organisational employees are to represent the park in every national and foreign vocational forum with the appropriate informative material Taking part in tourism exhibitions Establishing a Tourinform office Suitable internal and public relations measures disseminated to public to win them over Invitation of the public to park events through civil organisations Organisation of informative lectures in the winter season
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Electronic publications, press material: Create and advertise an online home page Filming of touristic commercials Establishing and spreading of a systematic newsletter in the neighbouring settlements Informing nearby residents through the local newspaper, radio
4.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Entrepreneurs in Cooperation Development of a There is no park tourism offer quality between the „nature park” specific touristic plan service entrepreneurs is specific tourism layed out difficult to achieve Classical hospitality A lack of non-profit Touristic programs There is a lack of target organisations are well organised group oriented dealing with tourism (leisure time, program offers and culture, eco- thematic issues tourism, confrerences) Positive Sales of touristic Waste management is entrepreneurial products is constant, an unsolved issue spirit but not effective Fast reaction to Lack of a specific Overconstruction market changes image Educated, well- The city of Kőszeg Price standards are prepared colleagues has streets without high- there is a lack of proper drainage attention payed to quality Special, enticing The healing nature touristic products of the regional that are constantly climate is not selling appreciated Touristic capability Programs are usually compared to the not aimed at the rest of the country is nature park unparalelled Easily accessible by
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any means Unique ecosystem and climate with very little polluting industries Kőszeg has a rich history and culture with many monuments
4.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. Our birds- protection of our avians Birds are quite interesting and varied creatures. Due to their lifestyle it is easy to observe them, and many of their kind live directly next to humans. Due to their nature, they are the best candidates to promote the park. The families that volunteer receive a birdfeeder and a birdhouse from the park. In exchange for these items, the families have to report yearly what they have done for the protection of the birds. The report can take many forms (children’s drawing, short essay, gifts that depict birds). From these items there will be a constant exhibition at the center of the park.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 4.4 AWARENESS RAISING
4.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. In the interest of the information service advancement for local inhabitants and the tourists alike, the Irottkő Nature Park Co-op has contacted the Kőszeg and Köszeg foothill institutions, organisations, entrepreneurs, and civilians in order to establish more touristic information points on the grounds of the park. The outcome of this initiation is that already there are 11 places, where they can give general information and about programs to the inquirers. In Kőszeg there are 7 such points and 1 more for each settlement in the region. Bechtold István Conservationist visitor’s centre- Kőszeg (www.buboscinege.hu) The Visitor Centre was opened in 2006. The 540-square-metre park visitor center was built with the help of the National Park of Őrség and the European Union near Chernel garden that was inherited from Fertő-Hanság National Park. Purpose: to provide high quality information of the nature park and the importance of local natural assets, which confirmed the identity of the area in support of land protection and development. Basic principle, spirit: display of high quality. The information center of the Nature Park has to display the highest quality in every aspect, including the information service of the employees, to recycling. The area that welcomes the guest has to suggest that nature has to be respected. Nature is wonderful and is full of secrets. In the centre that was built with the aid of the EU, one can view exhibitions that display the lifeforms of the region. In the interactive exhibition room, children can familiarise themselves with nature in a playful manner. In the seven exhibition sections one can view the life of birds, can listen to the nighttime birdsong in the dark room, and with the aid of a camera it is also possible to get a glimpse of the "siketfajd". There are many different species of endangered avians in the region. Next to the center is an arboretum where there is a bird nurturing grounds where they nurture wounded owls and birds of prey. In the visitor's centre there is a multimedia conference room, a giant puzzle and a hedge labyrinth in the park, while in the nature store there are issues of informative magazines, commercial items. Range of information supplied by the Centre Scientific dissemination Natural Science, Geology, Flora, Fauna, Ethnography, Civics, Monuments
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Tourism: Accomodations, Dining possibilities, Museums open, Programs, Program offerings, Persistent events, Seasonal events, Singles events The way of the informaton services: Telephone information transfer, Written information transfer Oral information transfer Tourist information service about of the naturepark’s attractions (natural, architectural values, events, etc.) about the available services (accomodations, hospitality, sports and information of any other possibilities) – this includes the transfer of the informations of prospects and the oral public information.
4.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. National Park of Őrség Tasks: elaboration of marketing communication, compilation and construction of adequate knowledge, project preparation and implementaion, supervisory body, etc. National park of Felső-Hanság Tasks: elaboration of marketing communication, compilation and construction of adequate knowledge, project preparation and implementaion, supervisory body, etc. Organization for Naturepak of Írottkő Tasks: nature and environmental programs, events, project preparation and implementation; implementation of marketing communications and promotional tools (promotional brochures, postcards, souvenirs, etc.); organisation of professional events, conferences and training paths; themed itineraries presentations and publicatons; external interconnections and to develop close cooperation with municipalities, entrepreneurs, program administrators, etc., and active civil society organizations. Park Visitor Centre of Bechtold István Tasks: dissemination of scientific knowledge, tourist information service, events, organizing and implementing exhibitions, arranging appropriate information staff, internal and external system connections, etc..
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4.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. The target groups for information sharing: The local population of the Nature park General - high-school classes, groups College and university students Natural Park visitors The groups coming to the information centre for a detailed presentation receive a high- quality slide show and/or video film of the nature park and natural values. Particular attention is paid to the visitors in the reception area where high quality exhibition brochures can be found, which serves the high quality informative services. The center's staff will ensure that the self-service and / or interactive information tools of high quality are operational. The Information Center will present the local craftsmanship, and they can also purchase a variety of these products. (aim is to send artisans additional income to help in marketing their work.) Tools of information: Office equipment, which are used by the information service staff: A separate phone line for the information desk A separate fax machine for the information desk Computer with internet connectivity Self service information tools which the visitors may use freely: Reading desk: information can be read on many different subjects (nature park flora, fauna, cultural values) Interactive coputer monitor: through which the visitor can navigate through the themes on the screen with the touch of a finger. This requires an interactive educational computer programs development with scientific knowledge and the topics of tourism and events. Open counters: on which the freely useable printable documents are placed Continuous and periodic exhibitions in the waiting room: serves the purpose of information to the visitors about the nature park and its cultural and natural values.
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4.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis)
Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats close cooperation lack of media Use of project- labor shortages, with the cooperation related domestic and skills shortages municipalities, international sources (Press Officer entrepreneurs, funding Position) program administrators, with active local civil society organizations
inner and outer well few sponsors and Completion of lack of capital established patron partner information relationships management system
available few local civil development of aging of the information, initiatives nature trails population could awareness-raising jeopardize the materials effective implementation of development plans
well-organized region's cultural and Developing, private partnerships tourist services and operating events coordinator distribution channels networks are missing Information Centre Locally no one knows Participation in operation in Kőszeg the local natural, national and and in the economic and international forums surrounding cultural values. communities Continuous issue of participation in Nature Park tourism fairs newsletter
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4.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. Írottkő Nature Park tourist card In 2009 the city of Kőszeg with the funds from winning ÖM touristic development application, developed the tourist card. Those tourists that stay at least three nights at any 16 of the regional settlements can receive these cards for free, which contains a booklet full of discounts. There are over 25 services that they can choose from including restaurants, swimming pools, fishing, bike rental and museum visiting. Every card owner receives a free informational package at the Turinform office. Working and planned projects: Naturepark booklets- thematic issue relating to function Goal: familiarisation of the concept of a nature park and recording of action in hungarian, german, and english Target group: people interested in the nature park Informative directional system spread out in the nature park Goal: full implementation of the information hardware of the Nature Park Target group: population and tourists Creation and publication of nature park commercial Goal: In addition to traditional advertising tools, use of an innovative, cost effective implementation of tools Target group: tourists Development of the channels of the nature park commercial Goal: All advertising should be effective, and reach the target customer Target group: tourists
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4.5 CONCLUSIONS
Short summary of the results of the ESA: The individuality of the region of Kőszeg and Írottkő Nature Park are the borderline situation, the sub-alpine, mountainous environment give a thriving scene for active hiking tourism, while the climate makes it ideal for health spa foundation. The uniquely preserved downtown area of Kőszeg is also a center for regional tourism. The rural territories hide numerous developmental potential in themselves, which could lead to a better lifestyle and future. The Írottkő Nature Park is actually a particularly valuable characteristic landscapes, generally protected natural area that is suitable for recreational purposes. The Natural Parks are Cultural Landscape units that are effective forms of exploitation of the countryside. Their character is retained by cultivating, and with a special construction of infrastructure (eg, hiking trails, nature trails, museums, etc) is becoming more open to the general public. Conservational territories that are outstandingly suitable for leisure and spending of free time, relaxation and for presenting its natural and historic values and the mediation of relevant knowledge, and where one can find professional informational services. During the situation analysis we presented Kőszeg’s natural characteristics and geographical location, local products and activities on projects, methods, the Írottkő Nature Park’s conservation strategy and methods and strategies for information sharing. According to the completed situation report, there are 3 main areas to be developed: Development of local products, distribution channels, overcoming the lack of knowledge, changes in legal systems, local economic development strategies, awareness-raising activities to develop trust between local entrepreneurs. The natural park conservation strategy works well, but lacks a comprehensive marketing plan, a healing climate, as a concept is under-valued, which is a problem that could be helped. Development of marketing/communication, new ideas and tools to introduce to the media to resolve the lack of cooperation, establishment of coordination network, which brings together the region's cultural and touristic services and events.
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5. ESA report BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA
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5.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
5.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. In accordance with the Dayton agreement, all legal environmental legislation of the former SR BH was maintained and was in force until the enactment of new laws. Announcement of the nature park Blidinje 1995 years in the area between the mountains in the west jet, Neretva canyon to the east and the canyon Doljanka the north and the south canyon Drežnica was the first big step in the institutional protection of the observed area. It is also made and the Master Plan for the PP Blidinje (Faculty of Architecture University of Zagreb), and the Blidinje held the First International Symposium Blidinje 2005. In the middle of 2003rd in the FBH (the RS in 2002.) adopted a set of environmental laws, among which is the Nature Conservation Act. The text of these laws based on EU legislation on environmental protection and access to use by the EU and its member states in regulating and environmental management. Time to Bosnia and Herzegovina wanted to create preconditions for effective environmental protection in accordance with the latest knowledge and European tendencies. In this way, the two BH entities have received the primary legislation in the field of environmental protection. That the law is fully applied it is necessary to harmonize the laws of the cantonal (FBH), and it is necessary to adopt a series of bylaws. Environmental laws are: 1st Environmental Protection Law (general) FBH ("Official Gazette of FBH" No. 33/03 and 38/09) 2nd Nature Protection Law of the FBH ("Official Gazette of FBH" No. 33/03) in the parliamentary procedure of the new draft Law on the Protection of Nature 3rd Water Protection Law of the FBH ("Official Gazette of FBH”, No. 70/06) 4th Air Protection Act FBH ("Official Gazette FBH” No. 33/03 and 04/10) 5th The Law on Waste Management Federation / "Official Gazette FBH No. 33/03 and 72/09) 6th Law on Fund for Environmental Protection ("Official Gazette FBH”, No. 33/03). The current Law on Nature Protection Federation includes four (4) visions of protected areas: 1st Protected areas (Ia, Ib and IV IUCN category); 2nd National Park (IUCN category II-a); 3rd Monument of Nature (IUCN category III-a); 4th Protected area (IUCN categories V-a).
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Nature Conservation Act HNC / K was adopted at the county level in Article 3 explicitly states: "The nature enjoys the protection of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton / Canton (hereinafter County) as its fundamental value and resource development. Nature is the purpose of this Act, the overall biological and landscape diversity. Protected nature areas in accordance with this Act are of interest for the County and enjoy its special protection.
5.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. Blidinje Nature Park was established on 30 April 1995 year. It is located in the central part of the high mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It covers an area of 364 km2, the greatest offense in the area of three municipalities Posusje, Tomislavgrad and Jablanica. The central part of the park is dominated by a long field Blidinje lake which is situated in the southeastern part of the park. Western boundary of the park makes Vran Mountains in the southeast are the Neretva River and the mountains Cvrsnica, and the Northeast Doljanka. Area Prenj, Cvrsnica, Cabulja, Vran and is located in the central part of the Dinarides. Geologically, the park is characterized by deposits formed in sedimentary system of the Mesozoic carbonate platform before 180 million years. In geomorphologic terms can be distinguished four regions: Cvrsnica massif (2228 m) mountain range Vrana (2074 m) mountain ridge west Cabulje and valleys of the Long Field. Park is located at only two hour’s drive from the Adriatic Sea. To the park can be reached from the direction of Rama, Jablanica, Tomislavgrada or Posusja. Blidinjsko Lake is the largest mountain lake in BH. It was built in the basin ranges of Cvrsnica and Vrana in a small concave recesses with karts features of the bay. An area lake varies from 2.5 to 6 km2, while the average depth is about 1.9 m. During the dry years the lake nearly dried up. The area is unique in terms of geomorphology, lithology, hydrogeology, climate, vegetation, fauna and traditions of land use. Although the average precipitation is high 1590 mm/year, most of the areas with scarce water during the summer season. Its tributaries - Rama, Doljanka, Diva Grabovica Drežanka more springs drain (drain) water from the area. From surface waters except Lake Blidinje there is only a steady stream Brčanj, and several sources Masna Luka (Crèche, Fratarski vrilo Juriljevo and spring) in the Upper Barama (Soldini and horse fountain) and 4 smaller lakes in Čvrsnica, and several small crack sources and temporary ponds. Čabulja and Vrana have a Mediterranean climate. Valley of the Neretva River and its tributaries the right Mediterranean climate penetrates to Jablanica and deeper into the interior. The northern slopes of the mountains and upper parts of a surface under the influence of the continental climate. With increasing altitude there is a fall of temperature and prolonged retention of snow cover. Winters are long cool with lots of snow that falls from October to May is particularly good for the development of winter tourism. The average rainfall is 1590 mm per year, of which most of it snow. Traces of Illyrian graves and remains of Roman roads indicate that the Blidinje was settled 2,500 years ago. A large necropolis in Dugo Polje indicates that the Slavic tribes that arrived in the 7th Century of Blidinje made his home.
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5.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. The park also provides important environmental factors affecting the biodiversity of the geographic location, geomorphology, litho logical composition, glaciations and recent climatic conditions, and certainly human (anthropogenic) influence. Special significance is given to the water arriving surface flows, and underground streams and springs, especially in the rainy period of the year. On the importance of this area in the biological and ecological terms indicating the fact that this area represented about 235 plant communities, which is about 75% of plant communities established on the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina, or more than 50% of plant communities established from the sea coast to the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The area is rich in endemic plant species and subendemic by botanists-Phytogeographers the high mountains above the middle of the river Neretva, Cvrsnica, Cabulja, Vran and Herzegovina's development called endemic to the center, since in thisareas identified more than 200 endemic, subendemical and relict plant species. Natural features of the area are: Eljna Bellard, Desirable Belardi known only in Cvrsnica Handel, (Minuratica handelii Mattf) inhabits an area of only a few acres on the Veliki Vilinac Cvrsnica Dryas octopetala, Droct opetalyas characteristic of glacial or lednik Siberia Croatica, is from 1750-1800 m asl, (Cvrsnica and Cabulja) Campanula Herzegovina (Campanula Hercegovina), Petteria ramentacea (Petteria ramentacea), Viola Zoysii (Viola Zoysii) Valeriana Bertiscea (Valeriana Bertiscea), Lilium cattaniae (Lily cattaniae), Asperola Hercegovina (Asperola Hercegovina), The broader environment is characterized by hornbeam- Eastern Carpini (Carpinus orientalis), hornbeam -Caroinus BIRCH (Caroinus betulus), chub Sharp pitched (Acer campestre), Montpelier maple Acer monospressulanum (Acer monospressulanum), sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus (Acer pseudoplatanus), black ash exelsior (Fraxinus exelsior), MOUNTAIN ASH (Fraxinum ornus), wild cherry-tree of birds (Cerasus avium), mahaleb cherry-tree (Cerasus mahaleb), wild pear-tree burgsd (Pirus burgsd.), stands of black pine (Pinus nigra), something Aleppo pine halepensis pine (pinus halepensis), low habit of JUNIPER the common (Juniperus communis). The lower floors appear as single thorn Palurus thorn of Christ (Palurus spina Christi), Rosa spinossima (Rosa spinossima), RUGGED Evonymus (Evonymus verrucosa), In the meadows and sunny places cranberry, raspberry Rubus ideus (Rubus ideus) and in some places Daphne blagyane (Daphne blagyane).
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Endemic sub-mountainous forest stands of whitebark pine occur on the mountains around the river Neretva. In various ecosystems appear isolated fitoceneza whitebark pine Pinetum heldreichii hercegovinicum where munika located individually or in the more in group’s fitoceneza high mountain swards or in communities and sub-mountainous beech forest curve.
5.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). Area Cvrsnica, Cabulje, Vrana and Prenj is extremely important natural area, large biological, geomorphological, hydrological and landscape diversity, while it has largely been preserved in a substantial part uninhabited. This karst area belongs to the Dinaric range, and a valuable part of the Mediterranean basin, which is one of 30 "hot spots" are important for biodiversity conservation on a global level, and because of this and because of the large number of recorded endemic species designated as a future "endemic center" Dinaric zone in Bosnia. Field and Long Field Svinjaca centuries used as a summer grazing area for herds of the local population, mostly from the southwestern part of Herzegovina. The western part of the mountain and Vran, Podgorje, Štitar and Podgorje Prenj occupy economically valuable forests that are still used today. The whole area of protection, from a crow to the mountain Prenj, more than a century it has been recognized as a rich hunting ground valuable animals, whose use is not regulated. On the outskirts of the area considering the quarries and Neretva is used to generate electricity for fish farm. Through an area undergoing significant transport corridors and boundary area is relatively densely populated with a variety of economic activities. Recently, within the region there are facilities associated with recreational tourism, and even entire villages secondary housing, linked to local attractions (Risovac, Boracko Lake, Konjic Neretva canyon above). Especially valuable is the Diva Grabovica area, which lies between the massive scare Cvrsnica, as the most beautiful geological and botanical living open air museum. This area is destined for a high level of protection, and except to designate areas of special interest to the Federation, arguably belongs to the rare areas in Europe that have regional and global importance for biodiversity conservation. Therefore unquestionable need of institutional care in this area, and that subordinate all other interests of current and future users of the same space. In addition to preserving the biodiversity of this area, which is the main purpose of the protection Cvrsnica, Cabulje, Vrana and Prenj, it is necessary to identify other reasons for institutional care for the area
5.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. Loss of habitat and its fragmentation due to human activity is rapidly leading to a reduction in biodiversity.
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The systematic neglect of the Herzegovinian region, poverty and lack of economic activity, lack of transport and communication infrastructure have left a long time space Vrana, Cvrsnica and Cabulja sealed and intact. Today we are faced with a series of environmental problems in this area are a reflection of unresolved political and economic situation. Basic human activities that lead to changes in natural conditions in this area are: Changes in agricultural production, abandonment and neglect of traditional herbal and livestock production Uncontrolled deforestation Lack of data Sensitivity and interest in the biodiversity of the area Construction of major infrastructure (roads) Unplanned construction Urbanization and industrialization of the village The emergence of ever-increasing volume of wastewater discharged into receiving waters Waste that is disposed in sanitary manner Disorganized tourism Poaching of protected and sensitive species, Environmental devastation caused by excessive and uncontrolled gathering of plants Increasing trade with the protected and rare species of birds and eggs Disease outbreaks and loss of genetic variability in the sequence of fragmentation of land and wetlands caused by human activities through unsustainable management of natural resources in the area, such as agriculture, forestry, tourism, energy, raw materials use, etc. Exploitation of mineral resources There is an obvious impossibility of preventing the degradation and destruction of the environment as a basic natural resources (forests, soil, water, etc.) in conditions of poverty only possibility of achieving economic activities, and recruitment and survival of the population. The complexity of environmental issues in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the importance of the environment for economic development, health and social balance, it sets the guidelines on the road to sustainable development, which are created with the financial assistance of the European Union. Bosnia and Herzegovina necessarily speed up the reform path and the field of environmental protection. Environmental protection has become a development and affirmative and not restrictive component.
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5.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
5.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. Area Blidinje has a natural, functional and aesthetic value with unique preserved eco- systems, which require long-term combined action for the protection and enhancement of this area. The system of protection of natural areas based on the need to protect landscape values and biodiversity. Establishing such a system is achieved most successfully planning and implementing conservation plans that recognize and protect the natural values and areas. Long experience in protecting natural areas directing further improve the protection system. Generally applicable rule is that the protection of biodiversity is based largely on the preservation of the natural environment in its entirety, then in the wider area around the protected areas and then special measures for protection of protected natural areas. Development of a system of protection of natural areas is rarely classified, focused and fully thought-out process. Some of the objectives of protection has yet to be established, and some will be hard to fathom or even unattainable. Common to all efforts to protect nature in its entirety, especially it’s most valuable parts.
5.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. The strategic plan document spatial PP "Blidinje" in its content very accurately describes the general characteristics of PP "Blidinje", and specifies the objectives and tasks of long-term development, protection and improvement of space. Elaborated the concept of development and preservation of program planning zones and localities, a detailed program for the protection of the landscape, the solution to traffic problems, for guidance on water supply and drainage, etc. As part of this important project are made and sector studies: 1st Hydro geological study of PP "Blidinje» 2nd Study of natural geographic features of PP "Blidinje» 3rd Ethnological studies of the site and buildings in the PP "Blidinje» 4th Study the possibility of development of tourism in the PP "Blidinje." At present it is possible to see some of the obstacles and conflicts that must be resolved in the short term, realizing the development documents. It is necessary above all to build appropriate institutional structure for environmental management in BH. We assess that the level of government are aware of the need for the inauguration of such a process. With the help of the EU and its institutions in a unique environmental space PP "Blidinje" to develop an integrated environmental management system to help remove the many conflicts of interests and conflicts in land use and natural resources.
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Past land use is mostly limited to animal husbandry, agriculture and tourism excursions, while stationed shorter stays up to date with the rapid increase of illegal construction, very rarely appropriate ambient qualities. Existing activities conducted in this area, which should be strengthened and more, are given in the following order. Hunting: Because of the extraordinary wealth of wildlife, especially mountain goats, but in the Austro- Hungarian empire was formed on hunting in area of Prenj and Cvrsnica. Forestry: Forest management of protected areas includes: maintaining the stability and biological diversity of these ecosystems, the construction of the optimal structure for the corresponding forest habitat, improving the gene pool in order to achieve a better quality wood, maintaining hygiene and taking integrated measures to protect forests, protection of rare species of plants, animals and fungi, reforestation of bare, reconstruction of degraded low-productive forests, building and maintaining infrastructure, achieving a maximum yield of timber and other forest products in a given habitat, cooperation with scientific- educational and international institutions and cooperation with the public Livestock and Farming: Agriculture in the Nature Park is not very developed, but there are opportunities for local food production. High-mountain cattle breeding is a characteristic of the area that became part of the Nature Park. The protected area is known for cattle rising, and this activity can continue, in line with the objectives of the protected area. For example, it can be directly linked with the development of tourism. A healthy diet is all the more appreciated; a protected area has the capability to produce environmentally suitable food items (meat and meat products, milk and dairy products, etc.) that can be placed only in the park, to meet the needs of potential tourists, and the broader market. This would have a positive impact on reducing the possibility of economic migration, which could make the portion of the proceeds for their own purposes. Tourism: Subject area has exceptional natural resources and attractive cultural and historical heritage. However, these resources have not been adequately evaluated and travel is still under- exploited potential. Mountain tourism Wider environment Blidinje huge mountain lake Vrana and Cvrsnica has high recreational values necessary for the development of mountaineering, and the use of existing and planned facilities provides extensive opportunities for development of this branch of tourism. Health Tourism Mentioned area, given the altitude (above 900m) to the construction of climatic health resort, intended primarily for respiratory system diseases (The Crow, Cvrsnica).
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Fishing Tourism Blidinje Lake, given the distribution of fish stocks, provides a good basis for developing fishing tourism, with strict adherence to measures to improve and protect fish stocks. Winter Tourism Higher elevation, favorable weather conditions for skiing and longer hours of sunshine, there are two very desirable climate conditions for winter tourism. Existing Risovac ski resort, near the ski lifts, a ski slope on an unlimited number of people. Facilities allow skiing from November to April.
5.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. Considering the trend of "return to nature 'and tradition, and that the requested travel product offering peace and relaxation, we can conclude that this area has the potential to develop into a tourist sense and realize the objective of economic effects. In this area there are opportunities for development activities such as hiking, fishing, sport climbing, mountain biking, mountain adventure, photo hunt, photo safaris, horseback riding, extreme sports and recreational tourism activities, harvesting and drying herbs and mushroom picking. Scientific research activities. This area should be used for technical and scientific research. The richness of the phenomenon provides a broad and multidisciplinary approach regarding the many scientific and research institutions The goal of this activity is to improve care, expand knowledge about the phenomenology of space and the application of modern scientific concepts in protecting the space. From scientific research stems directly raise the level of care, quality of cooperation between these institutions from the academic community. The basic method of scientific and technical work within the park is monitoring and tracking of phenomena and interactions within the ecosystem and the experimental method as a way to find an adequate answer to the problems of protection. The usual way of collecting data on the environmental work stations that are the main bases to cover the area and also links with academic institutions
5.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. Inclusion of stakeholders, i.e. the user area that should be included within the new policies and approaches for sustainable economic activities and products are: Representatives of ministries
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Representatives of local governments (cities or municipalities) Public enterprises responsible for forest and water Tourist boards and agencies of counties, cities and small towns in the park and surrounding area Angling and hunting societies that use the Nature Park and its surroundings Non-governmental organizations whose activities are focused on protecting and conserving natural and cultural heritage Organizations and individuals who own or handle the land in the Nature Park and its surroundings, such as agricultural cooperatives and local landowners Experts and scholars interested in the nature park.
5.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis). To manage protected area properly and to provide rights to their biodiversity protection should ensure effective monitoring of all components of the environment. Monitoring activities and their databases must be maintained and operating current. Monitoring is a key component of the protection of biological diversity and the Bosnian compliance with legislation and guidelines of the European Union. Protected areas should be a control zone with respect to the background state of biodiversity at species, populations and ecosystems. These tasks depend on scientific work. For sustainable forest management of protected areas and the safe use of wood and / or other forest products, to fully understand the concept of protection of diversity and the preservation of indigenous building blocks of ecosystems, requires a systematic state policy. Financing the management of these areas should not be based on the sale of timber rather than the state system solution, i.e. environmental policies.
5.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories There are favorable conditions for food production on environmental standards. Economic production is based mainly on animal husbandry, and the conditions allow for the production of organic meat, milk and cheese. Since the species of good conditions for the production of a potato, rye, barley, carrots, beets and cabbage. Production of environmentally friendly food is part of agriculture that the world's fastest growing. The market for these products is provided, and in developed countries is greater demand than supply. It is therefore constantly looking for new areas where such production can be organized.
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In Bosnia, but there is no organized production of such food in several locations, and the area Blidinje also could become one such zone. In this area there are favorable conditions for organic production. First of all, there is enough arable land uncontaminated with pesticides and artificial fertilizers. Industrial pollutants are sufficiently distant that there is no possibility of environmental contamination. Previous experience in the production of some agricultural and vegetable crops has shown that there are good conditions for their successful production. Chance of rounds out the system of production on the farm as the most desirable in organic production: the production of their own fodder, livestock, and use of materials produced on the farm. In addition to animal and plant production, as a core activity, it is possible in this area of collecting the ecologically pure medicinal herbs, as a supplementary activity. Meadow plants is a very good bee pasture in this field when the blooms in the southern warmer areas there are no other fits and this is a good opportunity for professional beekeepers here to deliver their beehives. This area is unique in its vegetation, in which a large proportion is just honey plant species. It is particularly important for beekeepers to come with the bees in this area during the summer when the vegetation is in progress and temperature conditions in Herzegovina unfavorable for the bees. The advantage of this area lies in the fact that the area has a lake and streams used for water supply. The entire area has tremendous potential for ground water that gravitates to the lower terraces, feeding some significant resources in the river basin of the river Neretva. Limiting factors for increasing production of organic products is depopulation, a limited number of plant species for cultivation, lack of environmental culture, and occasional areas of devastation. Relatively well-developed animal husbandry, particularly sheep, for the production of sufficient quantities of manure so that it creates, for organic production, a desirable rounded cycle of farming and livestock on the farm. In this area there are many kinds of wild plants that are used in pharmaceutical, food industry or for some other purpose, and because it grows in ecologically clean area of harvesting such plants may also be involved in organic production. The presence of a large number of endemic plant species and subendemical within the boundaries of the park has just binding to the high mountains above the middle of the Neretva appointed as endemic Herzegovina's development center. It is fortunate that in the past, interesting and rich flora of this region explored by numerous, mostly foreign scientists whose research results have pointed to this richness and diversity. Through several years of systematic floristic and vegetation survey of these mountains have confirmed their great floristic richness, which is one reason that, in addition to other natural and cultural value and interest, 10 years ago, this area was declared a unique nature park, which should evolve into one of the major Southern European national parks.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 5.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
5.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. Nature Park Blidinje'''' established April 30, 1995 and is situated in the central part of the high mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It covers an area of 364 km2 in the territory of three counties and covers an area of five municipalities, Mostar Posusje, Tomislavgrad, Jablanica and Window Frame. That same year he established the Public Enterprise JP Blidinje''Park'', located in the botanical-zoological reserve Masna Luka, which is responsible for managing the protected area. Public company managed by a Steering Committee whose members are nominated by the County in which the territory is a nature park. Public enterprise financed from the budget three counties and the Herzegovina-Neretva and West Herzegovina Herzeg-Bosnia. The fundamental purpose of establishing a nature park Blidinje'''' achievement of the objectives of protection of natural resources, protection and preservation of the natural development of ecosystems and natural processes, conservation of unmodified natural processes, biodiversity, habitats and plant species and allowing visitation to the extent that has the least impact in nature.
5.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). For the area of the park has not been done and the park management plan manages JP Blidinje''Park''. Currently under construction project, ''Preparing for a management plan for PP Blidinje'' that the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism is preparing a consortium Ecoplan Ltd. Mostar and Oikon d.o.o. Zagreb. In accordance with Article 61 Nature Protection Act (''Official Gazette of HNC / K'', No. 3/05) provides that the management of protected natural areas in the category of natural monuments and protected landscapes conducted on the basis of the management plan. Management Plan adopted by the Government on the recommendation of the ministry for a period of ten years. Management plan of Park of Nature' ''Blidinje necessarily contains all the elements set forth in Article 7 Ordinance on the content and manner of protected areas management plans (''Official Gazette of the Federation'', No. 65/06) and comprises: objectives and policies of protected area management with parts purpose, functions and objectives of the protected area, management policies in the protected area
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guidelines for sustainable management of protected areas with areas of assessment of the status of protected areas concept of protection of the entire region and its individual parts (zones) way of monitoring the protected area and its values management of certain natural and cultural values and resources of the protected area guidelines for the appearance of the buildings in the protected area linking protected areas with adjacent areas environmental impact and socio-economic complex guidelines for the implementation of the Plan, with the parts development of management plans through activities per year methods and sources of funding costs of the plan institutional structures and subjects within the protected area management Management plans in part determines the nature of development guidelines, the mode of protecting and preserving the natural values of the area taking into account the needs of the local population. The fundamental goal of management plan with the participation of all stakeholders to achieve that clearly identifies: vision and mission of the Nature Park long-term goals policies, measures and actions to achieve goals method of monitoring the implementation of the Management Plan way of monitoring the Nature Park Nature Park Management Organization Financing Park management Nature Management plan of Park of Nature ''Blidinje has to ensure the achievement of the basic functions of protected areas such as: functions of supervision and protection of flora and fauna, which is conducted through a specially set up supervisory services function is continuous evaluation through field inventory and monitoring of natural and other values of the park function of environmental education implementation of various programs and activities aimed at raising environmental awareness
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function of tourism and recreation that is conducted with the aim of satisfying visitors' needs for an active holiday (cycling, walking, etc.) attending a function organized system that includes developed programs introducing a protected area The principles of zoning in protected areas Zoning of protected areas is one of the basic steps in planning the use and management of space, whose implementation should ensure the preservation of natural values of protected areas. Process of zoning the area of the park is divided according to the objectives of protection and needs to use space. Zoning is enabled planning and defining existing and future use of the values of the park in areas where it is in line with the objectives of nature conservation. Zoning is usually derived from the required level of protection ranging from the level where it is allowed almost no human impact to the area where the use of natural area within the zone can be significantly altered. Zoning is done in accordance with the degree of protection that is determined by the natural habitats and animal communities and human activities permitted in a particular area. All the zones provided for in the system of zoning may not be represented in any protected area. Zone 1 - Zone of strict protection Strict protection zone covers the areas of high natural value whose conservation is of extreme importance and which do not require any intervention or only exceptionally (eg, related to allochthonous invasive species, interventions in emergency situations, etc.). If the purpose of managing the area required, it can be divided into two sub-zones - Zone of the strictest protection (1a) which is not allowed to visit, and very strict protection zone (1b) which may allow limited and controlled visits. Activities that can be run in the zone of strict protection (i.e. both its sub-zone) as scientific research, monitoring of biological and landscape diversity and intervention in emergencies. Zones of strict protection according to IUCN criteria appropriate to the category Ia or Ib. Also, it is often the central zones of national parks of the IUCN category II, which should encompass most of the surface. Zone 2 - Zone of active protection Active protection zone covers the areas of high conservation value where it expects a significant involvement in park management for the preservation, restoration or creation of nature conservation value. This zone usually includes areas where the local population, in line with the objectives of conservation, use of natural resources (such as extensive use of agricultural land and forests). Under the terms of IUCN are active in the protection of national parks Category II can be represented only a minor part of the park (up to 30% of the Park), while in the parks of this nature are most important. Zone of Active protection of the purpose and intention can be divided into a series of sub-zone.
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Zone 3 - Use Zone Zone usage usually covers areas of lower values for the preservation and / or areas where there is traditionally a certain degree of use and because they are mainly managed for other purposes relevant to the development and function of the protected area. This zone generally includes the areas of settlement and tourist use. This zone is a sort of compromise between use and protection of the area, and its use must be consistent with the principles of sustainable development, without compromising the purpose and objective of the protected area. Area of use can be divided according to purpose and intention of a number of sub-zones. According to the guidelines of IUCN's national parks are in category II may be the least represented. Management objective should be to the zone, i.e., their functions, eventually relocated to the area a national park or keep a very limited area. And in areas protected as a nature park, this area should not occupy a significant area.
5.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. In this context it is necessary to support the sustainable development of local communities that will be complementary to the main objectives of establishing a nature park. This primarily relates to agriculture, forestry, tourism, etc. Any use of space shall be in accordance with the nature protection measures. The concept of governance must be based on clear financial mechanisms and specific financial flows that are necessary for normal functioning of the park as well as for achieving the objectives for which the Park was established. Based on the knowledge, ideas and results that were obtained in the process of developing a management plan through consultation with all users of the Nature Park'' Blidinje”, scientific institutions, local and regional governments and local populations defined vision or purpose of management and policies of conservation and development of the Park in the future. Management objectives are based on an assessment of the available biological, geological, aesthetic, cultural and socio-economic values of the area.
5.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans When creating a management plan is necessary to conduct consultations with all stakeholders for the quality preparation of various studies (forestry, agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing, hunting, tourism, infrastructure, etc.), thus, to identify all relevant issues will be considered when establishing goals and measures for the park management of Blidinje.
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Inclusion of stakeholders, i.e. the user area is an important part of the process of protected area management. In the process of plan is necessary to involve as many stakeholders as follows: Representatives of ministries Representatives of local governments (cities or municipalities) Public enterprises responsible for forest and water Tourist boards and agencies of counties, cities and small towns in the park and surrounding area Angling and hunting societies that use the Nature Park and its surroundings Non-governmental organizations whose activities are focused on protecting and conserving natural and cultural heritage Organizations and individuals who own or handle the land in the Nature Park and its surroundings, such as agricultural cooperatives and local landowners Experts and scholars interested in the Nature Park
5.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). rea STRENGHTS OPPORTUNITIES WEAKNESSES THREATS -pure mountain air highland-law under-utilization of -pollution of the high quality -number of national natural resources environment -climate that makes and low-maintenance climate-change snow in winter, a international and tidiness of the (global warming) fresh declarations and environment summer support for -isolation of the high-biodiversity protected mountain diversity of mountain areas areas eco system -the presence of -water sources alternative
-Protected Areas energy sources
-natural beauty (wind, water) -available raw -the popularity of
materials winter sports FEATURES -near -The potential for agricultural
production NATURAL
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-A good geographical -experts - - Under-utilized - Under-utilized position at the "mountain men" resources (natural resources (natural national and - Local Action and economic) and economic) European level Group -excess of -pollution of the -tradition of farming, appropriate spatial- apartments of environment woodworking, documentation different places climate-change hunting and forestry (business zones, -insufficient use of (global warming) -good social ethnic villages, the incentive measures BH-entry into the EU (education, health) tourist zone) (funds, competition (the risk of loss of old infrastructure -the potential for ...) traditions - -a large number of developing tourism -transport slaughtering, cheese trades in relation to - BH entry into the infrastructure is and sour cream, population EU (duty-free open unevenly homemade brandy ...) ski-existence market, increase distributed - Low price forest as an economic quality of services -poor computer competitive products resource and products) literacy -centralized forestry -transport corridors / -Increase the in BH traffic competitiveness of -highway infrastructure the economy and -excessive -Tourist Attraction agriculture administrative -use of funds (EU, fragmentation national and regional incentives) -interest of foreign investors to invest in the economy BH-incentive policy highland-law -decentralization at
the national level ECONOMY -welcoming and - Connect to other -depopulation -Loss of identity peaceful residents areas within the EU -migration -diversity of culture that have similar -high mortality rate (language, customs) problems and learn Low-birthrate to the relatively small from their -passivity area examples high-age -good ethnic relations -lack of jobs -inertness of the - Human resources -lack of trade population (young and educated activity -inadequate local
people) -lack of institutions in
entrepreneurial relation to national spirit minorities and political disunity
POPULATION -lack of unity and
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Solidarity
METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 5.4 AWARENESS RAISING
5.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. The project "Green Mountain" implements by Ministry of Civil Engineering and Physical Planning seeks to inform the public about the importance of natural resources and threatened them with a special focus on protected mountain areas.
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The project itself is, among other things, educational, and represents the multiple meanings of a network of eco-organizations seeking to develop closer cooperation between these and the public. The same is trying to promote specific environmental information will be accessible to a large number of citizens in BH and others. Man's impact to the environment has led to a series of global, regional and local environmental problems that have led to ecological crisis. The importance of environmental awareness, as part of social consciousness, it has enormous importance in establishing a balance between man and his environment. Awareness of environmental problems that exist at the global and local level. Awareness of environmental problems and knowledge about ways of preserving the environment is the most satisfying. Political, economic and public issues of the project objective is achieved through an attempt to preserve, protect and improve environmental quality, protection of human health and the pursuit of prudent and rational utilization of natural resources, especially in mountainous areas.
5.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. In Bosnia and Herzegovina aims at all levels of government is to raise the level of awareness about the importance of the human environment. In line with that adopted a whole series of regulations aimed at facilitating access to information by citizens, in whose implementation involved the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations, Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism (FB), Ministry of Physical Planning, Civil Engineering and Ecology (RS) and cantonal ministries. One of the most important regulations for the purpose of obtaining information, as OTHER and related environmental issues, is the Law on Free Access to Information Act of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although the above Act lex specialis, which means that the restriction of access to information only prescribed in this Act and elsewhere, new laws were passed that law, which he prescribed limit. This law and its application are the mirror of accountability and transparency as well as being the biggest incentive for public participation in decision making at all levels and in all matters. The Freedom of Access to Information in BH has been established harmony between, on the one hand, its basic purpose to all information held by public authorities make the other side of the guaranteed commitment for which disclosure is the rule and publish only exception. The obligation of the entity and cantonal authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to comply with the said Act. The access to information related to the importance of natural resources and improve territorial identity of natural, protected mountain areas, there was a high degree of availability of the same, although the relevant entity laws do not provide full preparation of all relevant documents, as well as their timely disclosure of which is certainly a need for easier access documents.
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In order to improve coordination of citizens and public authorities, or parts thereof dealing with issues of environmental awareness and sustainability, it would be important to prescribe the preparation and timely disclosure of information related to this issue, which would be adapted to the citizens. For this reason it is necessary to actively participate both sides realized the public, transparent, and outreach.
5.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. The importance of a specific project in relation to specific target groups, stakeholders and end users exceptional. The first target groups are people with higher education whose area of operation includes the theme of the project. Another target group is policy makers and public servants-the development and sustainability in raising eco-awareness is important to watch, not as an isolated case or as the sole liability of public bodies, but as opportunities to physical and human capital and business environment. A mixture of skills and knowledge needed I also amongst public servants. This target group expressed the need for the application of the methodology and tools to bring about the attitude that the realization of full potential of the problem must be viewed as a guiding principle that influences the decisions and practices in all sectors dealing with ecological issues. The third target group is the general public-is meant primarily to the environmentally conscious person, considering the theme of "Green Mountain" prefer to stay in the mountains.
5.5 CONCLUSIONS
It was jointly concluded that the priority issues of local development over the next three years: To reduce the depopulation? To protect the natural and cultural resources? To improve and adapt to the entrepreneurial climate conditions specific to the area Blidinje? How to develop tourism and to direct the development of agriculture / traditional crafts in a way that contributes to the development of tourism? To increase the visibility of Blidinje?
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How to use sustainable forestry potential Blidinje? They are critical strategic issues that are important for achieving sustainable development and for which she is most likely to be under the influence of local interventions. These two measures reflect a commitment to strategic planning: Focus on priority needs Focus on topics that the participants can influence the planning or change them It is necessary to seriously consider local capacity (capacity) development, it is necessary to evaluate existing facilities and determine what is necessary for sustainable development. Each strategic issue evaluated by a series of questions such as "Due to the circle of influence, is influenced by external factors or areas?”. Other issues are taken into account the impact on local communities and achieve compliance with the funds. It was found that a few selected questions form the foundation for local development. The choice of critical strategic issues for the priorities determined by the future activities and direction of a strategic plan for sustainable local development. After you define the priority, it is necessary to carry out a detailed analysis (analysis of problems and concerns) to define the measures and actions to be taken in addressing the priorities. To best use resources of the local action groups, members and members are divided into six subgroups, which will be processed in a matter of priority.
6. ESA report MONTENEGRO
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6.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
6.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. National Legislation in the Field of Nature Conservation A. CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS AND DECLARATION Constitution of Montenegro Declaration on Ecological State of Montenegro (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no.39/91) B. REGULATIONS RELATED TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION i. General regulations
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Law on Environment (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no. 48/08) Law on Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment (Official Gazette of the RoM, no 80/05) Decree on assessment of impact of interventions affecting environment (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no. 14/97) ii. Protection of nature Law on Protection of Nature (“Off. Gazette of MNE”, no. 51/08) Law on National Parks (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no. 56/09) Decree on protection of rare, thinned, endemic and endangered plant and animal species (“Off. Gazette of SRoM”, no. 56/06) Ministry ordinance on the types and criteria for determining the types habitat, manner ofmaking maps of habitat, way of monitoring and the threat of habitat content of annual reports, measures of protection and preservation habitat types (“Off. Gazette of MNE”, no. 80/08.). Regulations on closer the content and manner of keeping the register of protected areas ("(“Off. Gazette of MNE, no. 79/09 of 12/04/2009) Regulation on detailed conditions to be met by control of the protected area ("Off. Gazette of MNE no. 35/10) Regulation on the contents of near-annual program of monitoring the state of conservation ofnature and the conditions to be met by a legal entity that monitors ("(“Off. Gazette of MNE no. 35/10) Regulation on the manner of making and risk assessment for the introduction of foreign species of wild plants, animals and fungi (“Off. Gazette of MNE no. 46/10 of 06/08/2010) Regulation on detailed conditions to be met by legal or physical person to store the seized protected wild species of plants, animals and fungi ("Fig. MNE, no. 46/10 of 06/08/2010). iii. Strategical documents: National strategy of sustainable development (2007.) National strategy of biodiversity with action plan for 2010-2015. iv. Spatial development and construction Spatial plan of special purpose areas for National Park "Durmitor" (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no. 20/97) Spatial plan of special purpose areas for National Park "Lovćen" (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no.19/97) Decision on commencement of the development of the Spatial plan of special purpose areas
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for National Park "Biogradska gora" (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no. 47/92) Decision on commencement of the development of the Spatial plan of special purpose areas for National Park "Skadar Lake" (“Off. Gazette of RoM”, no. 47/92)
6.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. The municipality of Pljevlja is located in a mountainous area extreme northern part of Montenegro. It covers an area of 1346 km ² from northwest to southeast or 10% of the total territory of Montenegro. 35806 inhabitants is living in Pljevlja according to the Census 2003. The territory of the Pljevlja municipality is administratively divided into 56 cadastral municipalities, within 159 settlements (according to Census 2003.) Settlements were organized in 20 rural local communities, while 7 other are urban local communities. Administrative, economic and cultural centre of the municipality is city of Pljevlja with 21377 inhabitants or 59% of the total population in the municipality, being of great importance for the region and Montenegro as a whole. Municipal Center, located on three rivers (Ćehotina, Breznica and Vezičnica), located in the central valley Pljevalja an altitude of 780 m, with an average elevation of the entire municipality between 1000 and 1200m. Belongs to the high mountains area dominated by Ljubišnja (2238 m), Obzir (1869m), Bunetina (1838 m), Buren (1805 m), Lisac (1769 m), Stožer (1577 m), Ravna Gora (1554 m), Crni Vrh (1540 m) and Kovač (1532 m). The highest point of the municipality is Dernečište (2238 m) peak of mountain Ljubišnja, while the lowest point in the north-western part of the municipality is in the valley Ćehotina (505 m). The municipality belongs to three river basins Ćehotina (994.6 km ²), Tara (318.8 km ²) and Lim (33.6 km ²). Pljevlja municipality borders with municipalities in the Bosnia and Hercegovina and Serbia and the total border length is 208 km. Pljevlja basin has a moderately modified continental climate, which has the characteristics of mountain climate with very low average annual rainfall (815 lit/m2), in which one of the driest areas in Montenegro. The municipality of Pljevlja was insufficient traffic associated with the environment, almost isolated, with poor network of main and regional roads, with a modest network of local roads, which many settlements in the municipality is difficult to access. The territory of the municipality is connected with neighboring areas exclusively and only by road traffic. The total length of categorized road network (regional and local) is 534 km, or 38.83 km/100 km2, which is a quarter less than the average in Montenegro (50.60 km/km2). The main characteristic of Pljevlja municipality is diversified natural potential and resources. Between different natural resource the mineral are essential and by its variety and quantity Pljevlja is the richest in the Montenegro. Region of Municipality of Pljevlja is characterized by distinct, clearly visible structural elements that give it its special identity to the landscape. Specific and diverse natural resources and valuable cultural and historical heritage are intertwined with each other, with plenty of detail, making it unique - a harmonious unity. Development of local economy in the last 50 years was based on the valorization of natural resources, specifically coal, electricity and wood processing. Due to that in terms of economy
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municipality of Pljevlja is recognized as the industrial center of the northern mountain region of Montenegro. In the structure of the local economy largest share mining, energy and forestry, while the share of other sectors in the formation of domestic product is less.
6.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. As unspoiled nature, sensitive biodiversity and extraordinary natural habitats are the main characteristics of this mountain area rich in pastures and evergreen forests and many endemic and medicinal herbs. Ljubisnja Mountains is the area of outstanding natural value situated in extreme North West of Montenegro, among two rivers Tara and Ćehotina and belongs to the high Dinaric Mountains. Unspoiled mountain territory, sensitive biodiversity and precious natural habitats are the main characteristics of this area. The landscape of it is a diverse mixture of many features, which are both distinctive and attractive. Features such as caves, water springs and forest have a tendency to dominate the landscape at the same time including farmland. In order to contribute to the conservation of natural values of the mountain Ljubišnja area and improve valorisation of natural resources Government of Montenegro proposed protection of this area in the category of Regional Park in accordance to the Law of Nature Protection of Montenegro. The protection of this mountain area is defined under the Spatial plan of Montenegro to 2020 in the objective C2.9.2-1. In addition National Action Plan for Natura 2000 includes Ljubisnja mountain area in the Montenegrin map for EMERALD network, and it is also nominated as a potential IBA area, i.e. area of international importance for birds. The Curve Pine community (Pinetum mughi montenegrinum) that is present in the forests of Ljubišnja Mountain, and covers an area of 900 ha, was protected in the category of Natural Monuments according to the Law on Nature Protection of Montenegro. It is the wooded mountains. Covered with mainly in fir and juniper with beech grow beside them scattered throughout the meadows and rich pastures. Forests of Ljubisnja are interesting feature rarities, so that some juniper trees are high as 40 meters. Rich mountain pastures and rich evergreen forests in which there are many endemic and medicinal plants. Unlike most of the nearby mountains Ljubišnja is rich in water sources as well. On the south side of the mountain there is 77 wells, and with the famous spring called „Vojnovac” at an altitude of almost 1900m.
6.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). Mountainous area Ljubisnja borders with one of four national parks in Montenegro - National Park Durmitor. The Durmitor National Park, founded in 1952, includes the massif of Durmitor, the canyons of Tara, Sušica and Draga rivers. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1980. There are beautiful landscapes and unique nature. A part of the National park Durmitor is also the Tara River Canyon, 80 km long and 1,300 m deep, second largest in the world, just behind Grand Canyon in Arizona. The canyon is protected as a part of National Park Durmitor and is a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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The unique attraction of the crossing area between National Park Durmitor and Mountain Ljubišnja area is the Draga River which originates under the Ljubisnja Mountain. After the Tara River Canyon, Draga River Canyon is the deepest canyon in the Europe. At the one point canyon is only 10m wide, and over 600m deep. Another natural attraction is the Ljubišnja beautiful mountain plateau called „Konjsko polje”, that with the lake in the middle, surrounded by hundreds and whiskey springs acting almost unreal. The highest peak is called Derneciste from where you have a marvellous sight on the surrounding mountains and canyons. A visit to this peak presents an unforgettable experience for every visitor. On the other side mountain area of Ljubisnja borders with Kosanica a picturesque plateau located at the edge of the Tara River Canyon. The plateu has an average altitude of about 1200 m. It is surrounded by mild slopes. The specific of this sensitive area is its untouched natural beauty, clean water, and fresh air. In the nearby households of this plateau, hospitable families are known to invite those passing by for some home-cooked healthy local food. Ljubišnja has exceptional conditions for the construction of ski and summer mountain development, recreation and hunting tourism. The hunting ground called "Ljubišnja" with indigenous species is one more tourist resource. In recent years by engaging non- governmental sector and with the support of local government, the first steps in the valorization of the site were done. As a result of the activities 64.4 km of hiking trails were marked as well as two mountain huts built.
6.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. At present the mountain territory of Pljevlja faces many problems like other mountain territories in the Balkans, such as: depopulation, poverty, high unemployment rate, environmental problems, communication and infrastructure problems social and economic marginality In addition the area faces challenges of bad coordination between stakeholders; lack of local and regional development strategies for protection and sustainable development of the area; lack of awareness of local community on opportunities and benefits of living in area of outstanding natural values; law participation of local community in tourism product development; no marketing plan for territorial visibility; lack of small infrastructure (info points, hiking paths etc.)
Strengths Weaknesses
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- Forest potential - environmental problems, - Potential of rivers Tara and - communication and infrastructure Cehotina problems - Diversity of flora and fauna - social and economic marginality - Preserved land from the use of - Poor age and educational structure of chemicals population - Tradition in agriculture and - No active management nor livestock production Management Plan - Tradition of craft and home- - No management for plant and animal made production species - Potential for development of - Lack of maintenance of meadows and mountain, recreational and pastures adventure tourism - Underdeveloped tourism offer and - Hospitality of local population relevant promotion of mountain as area - Rich cultural and historical of special natural importance heritage - Low level of knowledge and professional competence of local population Opportunities Threats - Development of mountain, recreational and advantage - Depopulation, tourism - Poverty, - Efficient valorisation of natural resources (agricultural land, - High unemployment rate water) - Updating and raising the competitiveness of agricultural production - Certification and promotion of indigenous agricultural products (‘pljevaljski’ cheese, honey, lamb meat and etc.) - Diversification of economic activities (collection and processing of forest fruit, wood processing, fisheries, bee keeping and etc.) - Training and education of rural population
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- Modernisation of the primary sector through resource-efficient investments in new and alternative sectors - Preservation of high quality arable land and ecological functions are essential
6.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
6.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. There are no specific policies both on national and local level of direct relevance and influence to mountain areas. However, Spatial Plan for Montenegro as well as Strategy for Regional Development of Montenegro created general framework for development of mountainous areas in Montenegro. Several local level documents refer to development of mountainous area Local Spatial Plan of Municipality Pljevlja and Strategy for Rural Development of Municipality Pljevlja. Sustainable development of mountain areas mostly concentrated in the central and northern region of Montenegro was taken under consideration within the Strategic
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Framework for Development of Sustainable Tourism in Northern and Central Montenegro2 adopted by Government of Montenegro. The framework is based on The Developmental Directions for Ecological State of Montenegro that was created in 2001 and launched in the World Summit for Sustainable Development (2002) in Johannesburg. This document elaborates ecological and cultural criteria based on which tourism in northern Montenegro should be based. It is emphasized that “while Europe is full of mountains and opportunities for alpine recreation and sightseeing, Montenegro offers one of the last available opportunities to experience accessible ecologically rich mountains and old world villages that have not already been clearly encroached by signs of modern human development. These undeveloped natural and cultural areas are a prime attraction for the market under consideration.” The document bring action plan that is integrated, among the others, under following principles (i) Consolidating and strengthening the vision for sustainable tourism development; (ii) Creating public-private partnership for implementation of projects/initiatives that demonstrate the economic, social, and environmental benefits of sustainable tourism, facilitate expansion of linkages with local suppliers and actively contribute to broad-based development; and (iii) Raising awareness and education of the local people/entrepreneurs to increase their capacity to grasp opportunities in sustainable tourism.
6.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. Nowadays, there are several conservation and protection initiatives underway in relation to Mountain Ljubisnja area on national and local level. These are programmes and action plans that are being implemented with the common goal of protecting agriculture, human and natural sources. Through coordinated partnerships, local governments, non-governmental organizations, private sector interests, and communities frequently work together to contribute for protection, promotion and capacity building for sound management of areas of outstanding natural value (AONV) in purpose of development of tourism and other alternative economic activities with aim of preservation of natural resources. Project called „Sustainable Biking Development” funded by European Union within IPA Cross Border Programme Serbia Montenegro. Project is implemented in partnership of the Municipality Of Pljevlja and the City of Kraljevo. With specific objective to create conditions for development of mountain biking and cycling as a new kind of tourist offer and promote mountain biking and cycling benefits in the cross border region the project will provide more than 220 km of arranged mountain biking trails. In addition promotion of newly created infrastructure will be promoted through maps, guides, web site and numerous cycling events. The initiatives like this will improve sustainable tourism development as well as rural development enabling diversification of economic activities in the rural mountain areas. Specific of this project is promotion of national “Bed and breakfast” standard along the mountaineering trails that mostly extending in the Ljubisnja mountain area.
2 Strategic Framework for Development of Sustainable Tourism In Northern & Central Montenegro: Roadmap for Development of “wild beauty”, United Nations Development Programme 2004, Strategic Framework was adopted by the Government of Montenegro on its session on 6th September 2004 http://www.undp.org/cpsd/countrylaunches/Montenegro-Tourism.pdf
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„Capacity building for sound management of areas with outstanding natural values” funded by European Union IPA 2008 Programme - Civil Society and implemented by Foundation for Development of Northern Montenegro (FORS Montenegro) as Montenegrin partner. The action embraces natural values conservation and development of strategy for protection of protected area in conjunction with community participation, rural development and nature tourism development. Consistent with the country's Spatial Plan and its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, the action has been designed to address issues related to the development strategy for protection of the area of outstanding natural value, the strengthening of the capacity of local population, local administration as well as nongovernmental organizations and increase of awareness of local community on opportunities and benefits of living in area of outstanding natural values. The specific project outputs refer to conservation of traditional products as well as designing of the Platform for the development of the Mountain Ljubisnja. Another project that is directly influencing the sustainable development of mountain Ljubišnja area is called „Growing Sustainable Practices for protection, promotion and management of natural resources”. The project is funded by European Union through IPA Cross Border Programme Bosnia and Hercegovina - Montenegro. Through the set of activities aimed at capacity building for AONVs management and development of sustainable (eco)tourism this project is giving its contribution to raising the level of environmental protection. The basis on which this project is designed is growing sustainable practice for protection, promotion and management of natural resources in a way that final beneficiaries of the project improve their capacities and knowledge. The good practice in developing nature-based tourism that is based on the balance between nature protection, social and economic aspects and the cooperation of competent organizations will be used throughout project activities. This includes not just the awareness raising activities aimed at large group of stakeholders but also real implementation of good practice through development of tools for sustainable management of AONVs, building capacity of stakeholders and improved involvement local community in development of (eco)tourism and tourist activities.
Project of “Establishing an Emerald Network” from 2005-2008 under responsibility of the Government of Montenegro Ministry of Sustainable Development and Tourism. Initiated by the Council of Europe based on the criteria of the Resolutions 4 and 6 of the convention on the conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats and Annexes I and II of the Habitats and Birds directions. The Emerald network data and sites serves as a base for establishment of the NATURA 2000 network in the upcoming period.
6.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. Following sustainable development programs should be initiated in the mountain area: Organization of local communities- The program aims to establish a local action group, which will take care of the development area. The objectives of establishing of such public-private partnership: the improvement of living conditions and quality of life in rural areas, increasing
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the capacity for local development initiatives of rural people, improving the competitiveness of rural areas. Local product offer and sales organization of local products- the main objective is to improve the economic position of farmers in the area of Ljubišnja, which will have more income because of the better organization. Branding- The aim is to increase the added value of local products on the market and increase the credit in the market for branded products. Waste management- the goal is to clean Ljubišnja of waste and organize such way of waste disposal, to prevent long-term disposal of waste in the nature. Tourism development- the main objective is to develop tourist offer in the area of Ljubišnja and recognition as a tourist destination in Montenegro and beyond. Infrastructure- The goal is enhanced state of the infrastructure, which means access to the villages, water supply and regular power supply as much as regular maintenance of infrastructure. Individual projects- The aim of this project is the diversification of services which will contribute to better economic and social situation of the community
6.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. 6.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis) The development of the Ljubisnja mountain area as rural area should take account of the unique characteristics of the territory. This rural and sparely populated territory need to enhance its accessibility, foster entrepreneurship and build strong local capacities. The area is vulnerable but rich in cultural and natural values. In that regard the sustainable development should be focused on sustainable utilization of this territorial capital, the ecological functions and services it provides. In addition facing severe depopulation it should have long-term solutions to maintain the economic activity by enhancing job creation, attractive living conditions and public services for inhabitants and businesses. Since agriculture and forestry are still important forms of land use, modernisation of the primary
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sector through resource-efficient investments in new and alternative sectors and preservation of high quality arable land and ecological functions are essential.
Strengths Weaknesses - Forest potential - environmental problems, - Potential of rivers Tara and - communication and infrastructure Cehotina problems - Diversity of flora and fauna - social and economic marginality - Preserved land from the use of - Poor age and educational structure of chemicals population - Tradition in agriculture and - No active management, border areas, livestock production nor Management Plan - Tradition of craft and home- - No management for plant and animal made production species – - Potential for development of - Lack of maintenance of meadows and mountain, recreational and pastures adventure tourism - Underdeveloped tourism offer and - Hospitality of local population relevant promotion of mountain as area - Rich cultural and historical of special natural importance heritage - Low level of knowledge and professional competence of local population
Opportunities Threats - Development of mountain, recreational and advantage - Depopulation, tourism - Poverty, - Efficient valorisation of natural resources (agricultural land, - High unemployment rate water) - Updating and raising the competitiveness of agricultural production - Certification and promotion of indigenous agricultural products (‘pljevaljski’ cheese,
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honey, lamb meat and etc.) - Diversification of economic activities (collection and processing of forest fruit, wood processing, fisheries, bee keeping and etc.) - Training and education of rural population - Modernisation of the primary sector through resource-efficient investments in new and alternative sectors - Preservation of high quality arable land and ecological functions are essential
6.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories
Future in the Alps - Protected Area Logarska dolina
Logarska dolina is a valley on the north-eastern side of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. It is a typical alpine glacial valley offering great views and sheltering the waterfall Rinka at its end, one of the highest waterfalls in Slovenia. To protect the nature of Logarska dolina, the former municipality Mozirje proclaimed Logarska dolina landscape park in 1987 together with a neighbouring valley Robanov kot. But possessing simply a legal status of protected area without management did not stop the negative impacts of tourism, which were particularly strong in the 1980s. In 1992 local landowners and other stakeholders in the valley decided to take action. They established a private company of 14 stakeholders and obtained the concession for the management of the park. The company developed a strategy with two main goals: to protect nature and to stimulate sustainable development (farming, forestry and tourism) of the Logarska valley widening the parc to the Solčavsko area.
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As the only public means of financing an entrance fee for motor vehicles was introduced. The company works as a non-profit organization, all profit is invested into development projects and infrastructure. During the years activities have been focused to arrange the infrastructure in the valley, visitor management and marketing. Company has made important steps for the development of Logarska dolina what was stimulating also for the whole Solčavsko region. Optimistic results in balanced sustainable development and nature protection have resulted in initiatives to establish a regional park in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps with the involvement of five municipalities. The plan is to finish establishment process for the regional park in 2011. The municipality of Solčava has established the institution Center Rinka, which has focus to manage tourism and sustainable development for the whole Solčavsko region. The company Logarska dolina is in this manner relieved of certain tasks for the widen area and so the main projects in the next years will be: focus on visitor management with further reduction of individual motor traffic, oriented tourism and support for secondary activities in the park.
METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 6.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
6.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. According to the Law of Nature Protection of Montenegro protection of sensitive areas under the category of National Park is under the jurisdiction of Local authorities. The protection process involves both local and national levels in Montenegro since the administration in Montenegro is organized in two levels. Firstly, municipality should prepare the Study for protection of the sensitive area. According to the law national Directorate for Nature protection is the only company eligible to design the study.
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Secondly, after the Study for protection of sensitive area in this case Mountain of Ljubisnja it should be submitted to the Ministry for Agriculture and Rural Development of Government of Montenegro for verification. Thirdly, after the study is verified by authorized Ministry the Study should be submitted to the Local Assembly for adoption. After the adoption of the Study Local Assembly in the separate decision defines the Management body for the protected area.
6.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). In case there is no Management Plan, are management objectives/priorities/activities set out in any other specific document (e.g. policy document). If yes describe them. Since Municipality of Pljevlja has just started the process of protection of Mountain Ljubisnja there is no Management plan for this territory. The only document referring to this issue is called „Framework for management of Ljubisnja Mountain”. Within the Project, at first, they did an analysis of threatening circumstances and management of the area, which was the basis for defining tools, prepared in the framework of activities. This analysis showed that key problem in this area is related to reduction of agricultural production, especially for reduction of the number of cattle, which causes overgrowing of the area. The main reasons for the reduction of agricultural production are: The demographic structure of population The opportunity to sell agricultural products.
In other words, number of local residents decreases while an average age of local population is higher every day. Because of this, there is no large demand for livestock production and other agricultural products. Young people do not see their perspective in rural areas, so they move in larger cities. Small number of young families lives in this area. They don’t have an organized sale so prices of their agricultural products are very low. Because of the foregoing, the conclusion of the analysis was that they should start with lots of activities in order to develop their local community. The project was carried out by the motivational workshops in two local communities, at which they intended to direct the community to take responsibility for development of their area. Within the workshops results they proposed several programs that should be implemented in order to launch development activities in the area of Ljubisnja. These programs are set bellow: Organization of local communities- The program aims to establish a local action group, which will take care of the development area. Since there are two separate communities, Bobovo on the south side and Vrba on the north side, it is proposed to establish two organizations that will collaborate in joint projects. The objectives of establishing of such public-private partnership: the improvement of living conditions and quality of life in rural
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areas, increasing the capacity for local development initiatives of rural people, improving the competitiveness of rural areas. Local product offer and sales organization of local products- the main objective is to improve the economic position of farmers in the area of Ljubisnja, which will have more income because of the better organization. Branding- The aim is to increase the added value of local products on the market and increase the credit in the market for branded products. Waste management- the goal is to clean Ljubisnja of waste and organize such way of waste disposal, to prevent long-term disposal of waste in the nature. Tourism development- the mains objective is organized tourist offer in the area of Ljubisnja and recognition as a tourist destination in Montenegro and beyond. Infrastructure- The goal is enhanced state of the infrastructure, which means access to the villages, water supply and regular power supply as much as regular maintenance of infrastructure. Individual projects- The aim of this project is the diversification of services which will contribute to better economic and social situation of the community.
6.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. Since the protection of sensitive nature area requires according to the national law preparation of Study for protection of sensitive nature area the involvement of relevant stakeholders on local level is needed. The main local actors that should be included into designing of Study/Management Plan/policies are: local authority, Local Assembly, Montenegro Forestry Administration, private companies operating in the sensitive area, nongovernmental organizations, local tourism organizations, local communities, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry for Sustainable Development and Tourism, National Directorate for Nature Protection, Agency for Environmental Protection, National Parks of Montenegro. As already has been introduced Municipality of Pljevlja as local authority is the lead of the process of sensitive nature area protection. In addition Local Assembly, National Directorate for Nature Protection, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development are directly involved in the process with different roles assigned in compliance with the Law for Nature Protection. Other stakeholders should take place in participatory assessment of the issues regarding the protection process through set workshops and interviews.
6.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. The Management Plan/policy development process should be participatory, involving the stakeholders affected by management of the protected area. Participation should take place
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as early in the process as possible and continue throughout. The involvement of the local community and other stakeholders in the planning process will significantly increase the degree of local ownership of the process and its product. With both external and internal audiences, the preparatory process would also: be clear and logical, beginning with the identification of management objectives; focus on well-defined issues concerning the protection of the important nature and cultural resources of the protected area; develop specific actions or alternative options in response to these issues and identify who will be responsible for implementing these actions; and identify a clear approach to implementation, including the resources required. In order to implement the process following steps should be undertaken: Step 0 - Establish Management Plan Working Team (team should be consisted of 5 members representing local authority, local assembly, nongovernmental sector, private sector as well as institutions) Step 1 - Organize Kick off Workshop (The event should be organized to present process to the general public as well as to determine the key issues/sectors to be elaborated by Management Plan) Step 2 - Organize Sectoral Workshops (Organize workshops by identified sectors to undertake more detail analysis) Step 3 - Organize individual interviews with representatives of key stakeholders in order to discussed collected information Step 4 - Elaboration of Management Plan by Working Team Step 5 - Public presentation of Management Plan draft Step 6 - Drafting final version of Management Plan
6.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). Summarizing the characteristics of the mountain Ljubišnja we have made a SWOT analysis in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans, in which the advantages and disadvantages are internal factors that could be directly affected by local authorities and local community, while the opportunities and threats are external factors that may be indirectly affected but local authorities can’t make final decisions.
Strengths Weaknesses - Rural Development Strategy - Lack of awareness on EU Cohesion and Territorial policies
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- Municipal Spatial plan - Lack of skilled people - Regional Development Strategy - Lack of regional administrative level - Willingness to develop experimental approaches to integrated local development in diverse territorial contexts Opportunities Threats - Territorial marketing - Local and national administration not - Modernisation of the primary sector through willing to cooperate resource-efficient investments in new and alternative sectors and preservation of high quality arable land and ecological functions are essential.
6.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. Future in the Alps - Protected Area Logarska dolina MANAGEMENT OF THE PARK: • Adoption of development orientation and goals • Preparation of, and signing of the concession contract with the municipality • Introduction of an entry fee for motor vehicles (the first such case in Slovenia) and a system of visitors' management • thirteen-year management and care of the park MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTMENTS THAT THE COMPANY INITIATED, PREPARED AND, TOGETHER WITH PARTNERS, REALIZED: • type-system of marking • construction of an entrance zone with a carpark • district heating using wood biomass (800 kw) • sewerage system (3 km) with a purification device
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DEVELOPMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES: • leading a team for the change of the municipal spatial planning documents • a nature and ethnographical trail • maintenance of 22 natural/cultural sights • registration of a trademark and restoration of an Alpine dairy offering its own products • highly developed additional ecotourist services WIDER AREA • A letter of intent of mayors of five municipalities of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps on the setting-up of a regional park.
METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 6.4 AWARENESS RAISING
6.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. In reference to the project Green Mountain, the overall communication objectives coincide with the achieving and promoting the overall objectives of the project itself. Throughout all of the project’s communicative activities, we must attempt to achieve the following:
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. Familiarizing the public with overall and specific objectives and activities of the project; . Rising the level of environmental protection . Promotion of mountain area as natural resources through improving capacities and knowledge of the final beneficiaries . Familiarizing the large group of stakeholders with good practice through development of tools for sustainable management of mountain area
6.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. The public/private authorities and bodies that should be involved in information, training and awareness raising activities are: Municipality of Pljevlja as local authority, Local Assembly, Montenegro Forestry Administration, private companies operating in the sensitive area, nongovernmental organizations, local tourism organizations, local communities, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry for Sustainable Development and Tourism, National Directorate for Nature Protection, Agency for Environmental Protection, National Parks of Montenegro, Local TV station, local printed media „Pljevljasкe novine” аs well as other electroic and printed media. All listed public/private authorities and bodies should actively participate in information, training and awareness raising activities. The Municipality of Pljevlja as project partner should take care of organizing trainings and information as well as awareness raising activities. Representatives of other stakeholders should participate in reference to their competencies in relation to protection of nature areas in Montenegro with providing materials and other content for information and awareness raising material as well as to provide lectures.
6.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. Target groups Target groups are the general public but specifically: Local administration National administration Private sector Nongovernmental organization
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Electronic and printed media More specifically the target group are listed down below: 1. Municipality of Pljevlja as local authority, 2. Local Assembly, 3. Montenegro Forestry Administration, 4. Private companies operating in the sensitive area, 5. Nongovernmental organizations dealing with nature protection, 6. Local tourism organizations, 7. Local communities, 8. Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, 9. Ministry for Sustainable Development and Tourism, 10. National Directorate for Nature Protection, 11. Agency for Environmental Protection, 12. National Parks of Montenegro. 13. The European Union Delegations to Montenegro; 14. National point for SEE Programme; 15. General public or members of wider community. Following methods would be applied: I Introduction meeting The first activity on the project will be organization of introductory presentations in two project areas. The purpose of this presentation will be threefold: to present the project to wider group of stakeholders, including project objectives, activities and expected results. The project team will also explain the expected role of each stakeholder in achieving the project objectives. The presentation will be organised in an appropriate facility located within the project area. All important stakeholders will be invited including: (i) relevant government administration bodies, (ii)private businesses, nongovernmental organizations, (iii) local community and (iv) media. The concrete results this activity will produce are: . project will be presented to large group of stakeholders, . contacts with stakeholders relevant for this project will be established, and . awareness of local community will be increased related to planed project activities II Designing of printing material (leaflet, brochure) Project leaflet would be prepared three times during the course of the project. The leaflets will be used to disseminate information to wider public and to raise their awareness about
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the EU Cohesion and Territorial policies, project itself as well as the other interesting topics in relation to the Green Mountain Project. Brochure would be prepared in two issues of during the project cycle, for local community that will be printed and distributed free-of-charge in the course of the project activities to wider public. Each brochure will have three chapters: Preface, Activities on the project and two articles related to sustainable management of AONVs. III Web page In order to make visible project activities and results to local and wider public the project team will post information about the project on the following web sites: Web site of Municipality of Pljevlja Web site of another stakeholders (where available), III Media coverage All project activities will be presented to printed and electronic media and they will be invited to all workshops and public events organized. Articles in local press will serve to raise the profile of the issue to the general public. The articles will take the form of informative article, interviews of the project management staff or technical papers in suitable press. Papers submitted to national events where applicable (conferences, exhibitions, workshops) are also included in this category.
6.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis)
Strengths Weaknesses - Experience in organizing trainings - Willingness of different stakeholders to and preparation of information and appoint participant at the trainings awareness raising activities - Willingness of media to cooperate Opportunities Threats - Increased recognition of Mountain - n/a Ljubisnja
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- Improved development of eco tourism - Accession to EU rural and regional development funds
6.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. n/a
6.5 CONCLUSIONS
Municipality of Pljevlja is settled in the extreme mountainous area of the northern Montenegro. It is one of the most important industrial centers of Montenegro and region as well. Thus land use is limited, climatic conditions are generally harder, while access to markets and services is more difficult. There are no specific policies nor national or local of direct relevance and influence to mountain areas. However, Spatial Plan for Montenegro as well as Strategy for Regional Development of Montenegro created general framework for development of mountainous areas in Montenegro. Several local level documents refer to development of mountainous area Local Spatial Plan of Municipality Pljevlja and Strategy for Rural Development of Municipality Pljevlja.
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Sustainable development of mountain areas mostly concentrated in the central and northern region of Montenegro was taken under consideration within the Strategic Framework for Development of Sustainable Tourism in Northern and Central Montenegro3 adopted by Government of Montenegro. The framework is based on The Developmental Directions for Ecological State of Montenegro that was created in 2001 and launched in the World Summit for Sustainable Development (2002) in Johannesburg. In order to address the challenges, and in an effort to maintain the vitality of mountain communities, the Government of Montenegro intervenes extensively under its regional and rural development policies as well as under its different sectoral policies. However, principal policy challenge is therefore one of maximizing the opportunities possessed by mountain regions in fields such as authentic products of high quality or their attractiveness for urban dwellers as a result of a well-preserved environment. At the same time, efforts need to be pursued to limit the effects of the natural handicaps. Concerning mountainous area of Municipality of Pljevlja in general mountain protection and development policies should be concentrated to: Enhance the competitiveness of key rural sectors Nature protection and sustainable management of resources Improved infrastructure in mountainous areas Enhance diversification of economic activities Improved access to the social infrastructure
7. ESA report AUSTRIA
3 Strategic Framework for Development of Sustainable Tourism In Northern & Central Montenegro: Roadmap for Development of “wild beauty”, United Nations Development Programme 2004, Strategic Framework was adopted by the Government of Montenegro on its session on 6th September 2004 http://www.undp.org/cpsd/countrylaunches/Montenegro-Tourism.pdf
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7.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
7.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. The Styrian Nature Conservation Act 1976 establishes the legal framework for landscape protection and nature conservancy areas like Natura 2000 sites or Nature Parks like the Nature Park Soelktaeler. The individual areas are decided on by the Styrian parliament.
7.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. The Soelktaeler Nature Park is located in a part of the Eastern Alps, called Niedere Tauern. It encompasses two valleys, the “Großsölktal” (Big Soelk Valley) and the “Kleinsölktal” (Small Soelk Valley) and three communities: Grosssoelk, Kleinsoelk and St. Nikolai.
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The Nature Park area extends from the Ennstal Alps to the main ridge of the Hochwildstelle (2.700m) as the highest elevation. It connects two Styrian main valleys, the Ennstal (Enns Valley) and the Murtal (Mur Valley) via the Soelkpass, the highest pass of Styria (1.788m). Geologically the mountains are dominated by silicate rock. A specific characteristic is the presence of the “Soelker Marble”, a colorful, approx. 380 million years old marble rock.
7.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. On the 21st October 1982 the Soelktal area was granted the title “Nature Park”. In April 1983 the charter was officially conferred. The main focus of the Nature Park Soelktaeler is based on four pillars: protection, education, recreation and regional development. Conservation Areas The Nature Park comprises a number of protected areas. The largest percentage are landscape protection areas with a total of 25.500 hectare. Conservation areas are defined by: • A notably scenic beauty or distinctive characteristic • A peculiar interplay of countryside usage and buildings which form cultural landscapes • A special recreational value (to be preserved or further developed) The Nature Park Soelktaeler encompasses two officially designated landscape protection areas: Conservation Area No. 11 (Schladminger Tauern) and Conservation Area No. 12 (Woelzer Tauern).
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Natura 2000 Austria is committed to the European Community accession to implement policies in the field of nature conservation. The legal basis to conserve and enhance habitats and species within the European Community territory are primarily the in 1992 adopted "Guidelines for the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora species" (Flora-Fauna- Habitat Directive = DIRECTIVE 92 / 43/EWG COUNCIL) and the in 1979 adopted "Directive on the conservation of wild birds" (Birds Directive = DIRECTIVE 79/409 / EEC COUNCIL). In Soelktaeler Nature Park there are two Natura 2000 sites. The Lower Tauern (18.900ha, site code AT2209000) and the high altitudes of the southeastern Tauern Schladming (82.77ha, site code AT2209003). Nature Reserves Nature conservancy areas are defined by • Their nativeness and naturalness • The diversity of particular animals and plants • Rare or endangered animal and plant species, including their means of livelihood, which are especially worth preserving for scientific reasons In the Nature Park Soelktaeler, the area around the Soelkpass (No. c04, 480ha) was determined as a nature reserve on 09/07/1973 by the Styrian Government.
7.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). All protected areas within the Nature Park Soelktaeler extend beyond the boundaries of the park. The “Berg- und Naturwacht” (mountain and nature watch) monitors the abidance by the law (Styrian Nature Conservation Act) within the various protected areas. The Lower Tauern Natura 2000 sites are taken care of by a specially certified bureau (ZT Kanzlei Kofler, Pernegg).
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See file Schutzgebiete_Soelktaeler.pdf
7.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. Right of Ownership / Estates Within Nature Parks, landowners play a major role. The range of services offered as well as the varying projects are planned with their consent. While the valley regions are agriculturally used areas, divided into many small estates, the forest areas are more often held by great land owners. In addition to the silvicultural usage, the forests are also used as hunting grounds by these landowners. The mountain pastures are partly owned by farmers. Some mountain pastures are managed as land easement (so called “Servitutsalmen”).
Soelker Marble / Primary Product The Soelker Marble represents a very specific characteristic of the Nature Park Soelktaeler. It occurs in several natural places. The excellent structural properties of this approx. 380 million years old beautifully colored marble are long and well known. Many foundations were built with it; the “Schleihuette” (tench hut, Gumpen Mountain Pasture) was built entirely of Soelker Marble.
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Tench Hut – Schleihuette (Copyright Bormann) Demographic Development One of the main challenges is the emigration of young, well-educated people to urban centers because of better job opportunities. Weather Damages 2010 a weather storm with heavy rain destroyed a mountain pasture area of 220ha. The year before strong winds destroyed countless stere of wood. In recent years, an accumulation of natural disasters is to be observed. To what extent these disasters are linked to global warming cannot yet be ascertained.
Damage 2010 (Copyright Markus Mayerl)
7.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
7.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. All three rural communities are rather economically underdeveloped. Most inhabitants are commuters. The largest on-site employer is the Soelker Marble factory.
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Both the Big Soelk Valley and the Small Soelk Valley are agriculturally and silviculturally used areas. There are many farmsteads with small structured landed property. In the mountainous area about 40 pastures are administered. Some mountain pastures sell regional products such as the “Ennstal Steirerkas” (Enns Valley Styrian Cheese).
The Nature Park Soelktaeler has its own tourist board. The region is part of the well-known Schladming-Dachstein tourism region. As recreation is an important part of the Nature Park Soelktaeler, special summer and winter programs for guests are offered. Main focus is to experience nature in a sustainable way. The three communities Grossoelk, Kleinsoelk and St. Nikolai are also members of the Regional Association Liezen (RML) and in the LEADER Region Ennstal. Some LEADER (Liaison entre actions de développement de l'économie rurale) projects are also part of the Nature Park Soelktaeler activities.
7.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. Trademark Nature Park Specialties The Association of Austrian Nature Parks, the umbrella organization for all Austrian Nature Parks like the Nature Park Soelktaeler, created a project called “Nature Park Specialties”. This project promotes and fosters a family branding for locally produced groceries. With the “Hoamatlod’n Kleinsoelk” the Nature Park Soelktaeler hosts a small store, where such specialties can be bought. Local farmers and the “Jesuit Garden” are involved in this
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project.
Education – Science, Tradition and Motor Activity The Nature Park Soelktaeler offers additional programs for schools. The services range from scientific approaches like the biology lab in the Nature Park House Schloss Grosssoelk (a small castle), the experience of traditional knowledge like butter churning to sports like a high ropes course and hiking. The programs are individually planned in collaboration with schools and take between three and five days.
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7.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. Since 2010, the Nature Park Soelktaeler offers a special training certificate, the “Ennstal Almdiplom”. It combines different tasks like milking cows, making cheese, baking doughnuts, acquiring knowledge about mountain pasture plants and animals – just like a traditional mountain pasture custodian. Guests are able to enter a competition where fun, knowledge, the development of traditional skills and the taste of home-made food are offered. The courses are available from June to September, for groups of up to 15 persons. One of the first graduates was Johann Lafer, a famous Styrian TV head chef (see picture).
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Ennstaler Almdiplom (Copyright Hagspiel)
7.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. Conservation Organizations • Berg- und Naturwacht (Mountain and Nature Watch) • Naturschutzbund (Nature Protection Association) Both organizations are well respected and integrated. Their work is essential for nature conservation. Umbrella Organizations and Project Partners • Naturpark Erlebnis Steiermark (Nature Park Experience Styria) • Verband der Naturparke Österreichs (Association of Nature Parks in Austria) These umbrella organizations are most important partners for the implementation of actual projects and the coordination of strategic objectives. Volkhard Maier, managing director of the Nature Park Soelktaeler, is a member of both organizational boards. Political Stakeholder • Land Steiermark (Province of Styria) • Chamber of Agriculture • Municipalities / Mayors For the implementation of projects, especially in terms of financial means, the support of political stakeholder is needed. It is important to keep close contact, especially with the communities and their mayors, who are very important partners on-site.
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Tourism • Tourism Board Nature Park Soelktaeler • Marketing Company Schladming-Dachstein • Styria Tourism The Nature Park Soelktaeler is both organizationally and physically very closely linked with the local tourism board. Both organizations share an office; Volkhard Maier is the CEO of both organizations. The local tourism board is part of the large tourism region Schladming- Dachstein, an umbrella organization for different, adjacent regions and the largest tourism region within Styria. There is a selective co-operation with Styrian Tourism, the umbrella organization of all Styrian tourism regions. Examples include branding, press relations and special projects. Region • Regional unincorporated association and organizations • Religious organizations The Nature Park Soelktaeler works very intensely with regional unincorporated association and organizations. Events are planned concertedly, infrastructural means are shared and mutually used.
7.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis)
There is an increasing need in experiencing nature, a certain longing for natural inviolacy. That is exactly what Austrian Nature Parks like the NP Soelktaeler are able to offer: The sensible usage of natural resources combined with recognizable, individual landscape characteristics. On the other hand, the primary product Soelker Marble offers potential for economic development. Soelker Marble (Copyright Schrefler) In order to use this potential vigilantly it is most important to foster and enhance competences in sustainable development, mediation and communication skills as well as awareness raising.
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Especially the communication strategies offer optimization potential. For example: The Soelkpass is the highest pass of Styria, and it is quite well-known. Nonetheless there is only a small chapel and very little information for guests and travelers concerning the Nature Park and its work.
The mountain pastures are most important for the preservation of the cultural landscape. Some of them offer agricultural products and are popular resting places for travelers, backpackers and mountaineers. The number of overnight stays declined in recent years. One reason is certainly the lack of high quality accommodation facilities. Additionally, the region offers few qualified places of work. Therefore well-educated people emigrate to urban centers. A reversal of these trends – decline in guest-nights and rise in emigration - is one of the biggest future challenges.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 7.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
7.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. There are different organizational cognizance when it comes to the protected area within the Nature Park Soelktaeler. The nature reserve, located at the Soelkpass, overlaps with the Natura 2000 area. Therefore this area is under the responsibility of the state government. It is the same with some conservation areas (landscape protection). For conservation areas outside Natura 2000, the rerponsibility lies with the district administrative authority. The management of NP Soelktaeler is responsible for the management of the park. According to the Nature Conservation Act, the management provides for beneficial conditions by offering knowledge about nature and the design of recreation programs. This is also done by the creation of hiking paths, nature trails, botanical gardens, resting places at scenic spots and playgrounds. The Nature Park Soelktaeler is managed by a Limited Liability Company (GmbH), which is a 100% subsidiary of an unincorporated association. The unincorporated association is thus the sole shareholder of the GmbH.
Unincorporated Association General Meeting Nature Park Soelktaeler Members
Board
Limited Liability Company Nature Park Soelktaeler General Meeting Non-Profit Board of Unincorporated 100% Subsidiary of Association Unincorporated Association
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7.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). There is no specific management plan for the protected areas within the Nature Park Soelktaeler. For Natura 2000 sites certain management plans are in development (publication and implementation planned for 2012). Landscape Plan Based on - the existing vegetation ecological surveys and - the ongoing animal ecological surveys in settlement areas - a landscape plan will be created using aerial photos. Based on the overview of the current distribution of habitats and their condition (settlement, forest, alpine meadows and subalpine areas, water bodies) the necessary data can be provided in order to develop proposals for a sustainable utilization. The results and proposals will be discussed in consultation with the stakeholders (e. g. mayors, community committee, local farmers).
Mountain Pasture Nurture Plans (Almpflegeplan)
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The “Almpflegeplan” is a Styrian pilot project within the LEADER program and was initiated by the Nature Park Soelktaeler. The NP Soelktaler is responsible for the creation of these mountain pasture nurture plans. The necessary preparations are done by the Environmental Office in Klagenfurt. The nurture plans can only be developed for protected areas (conservation areas, nature reserves and Natura 2000 sites). However, the most important partners and promoters are the alpine farmers and mountain pasture custodians. Without their request and consent this project would not be possible.
7.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. For the development of the “Almpflegeplan” the existing laws for protected areas have to be observed. It might become necessary to apply for additional or exceptional by-laws (e. g. selective forest clearance). Therefore a collaboration with the local Agro District Agency will be advisable.
7.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. The landscape plan aims to integrate different interests into the used planning instruments. In the first step as many people as possible were involved – in contrast to the mountain pasture nurture plan, where only the concerned people were involved (no public proceeding). Certain topic clusters like (a) settlement, (b) forest, (c) pastures and subalpine areas as well as (d) waters bodies were created. These topics were worked on with inhabitants, regional managers and representatives from the conservation department. The next step is to integrate the results into the local and regional planning instruments.
7.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). The landscape plan was discussed in four working groups on a very broad, public basis. This resulted in a high acceptance of the landscape plan contents. The results are based on consensus. The biggest challenge is now to integrate the results into the various planning instruments at local, regional and national level. This is particularly difficult because there is no obligation to consider the results. Positive lobbying will become necessary. The chances for the implementation of the “Almpflegeplan” are much higher. It depends mainly on the cooperation with the alpine farmers. A certain risk are the potentially
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necessary additional by-laws. Another factor of success is the consequent application by the alpine farmers. Past experiences show that the measures are rarely implemented by 100%, which might lessen the positive effects.
7.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. The Lavenbergalm (Lavenberg Mountain Pasture) is located in the Small Soelk Valley and part of the Natura 2000 area at an altitude of 1.400m to 1.700m. For 30 years the pastures have not been cared for, which resulted in a overgrowth with shrubs. In 2009 an “Almpflegeplan” was created for the Lavenbergalm. The aim is to restore the pasture. There is only one usable area which was mowed; this area is the starting point for regeneration.
A water body will be established near an avalanche area in order to improve the pasturage management. The shrub growth will be cleared in a tessellated way with power mowers and trimmers. The young spruce growth is cleared, bigger spruces and larches are preserved. With intense grazing the shrub growth shall be lessened, the growth of pasturage and herbage shall improve. The cost for the actions amount to approx. EURO 4.500.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 7.4 AWARENESS RAISING
7.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. The Naturpark Soelktaeler is part of the Association of Austrian Nature Parks, an umbrella organization for selective rural areas where human beings live in a long-lasting, vigilant symbiosis with their natural environs and resources. In contrast to National Parks, where the creation and protection of preserve areas is a most important objective, a Nature Park places emphasis on the mutual inhabitation of human beings, plants and animals. Therefore one important objective is mutual respect and a certain understanding of nature. The creation of programs to educate, experience and inform are a most essential part of the work of the NP Soelktaeler. Project Jesuit Garden The project “Jesuit Garden” is part of these activities. Traditional vegetables, plants and herbs are grown in a special garden, built in terraces with so-called “Trockensteinmauern” (pure stone walls which hold together without mortar). These stone walls enable even very sensitive plants to grow in spite of the tough mountainous climate conditions.
The offered services are interesting for inhabitants and guests, but also for people who are interested in herbal lore and the preservation of traditional gardening knowledge. Therefore interesting network possibilities arise in terms of seminars, lectures and products. Products like juices and teas are also part of the “Nature Park Specialties”.
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7.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. Assoziation of Austrian Nature Parks Overall strategy, financial planning, promotion tools http://naturparke.at/en/VNOe/The_Association_of_Austrian_Nature_Parks
Friends of the Jesuitengarten (Jesuit Garden) Local and regional project partners http://www.jesuitengarten.at
Raumberg-Gumpenstein (Green Mountain project partner) Research partners http://www.raumberg-gumpenstein.at
Leader Region Ennstal Strategic and financial partners (EU programs) http://www.leader-ennstal.at
Municipal Councils / Mayors Implementation and promotion partners on-site http://www.grosssoelk.at // http://www.kleinsoelk.at // http://www.st-nikolai.at
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7.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. There are different target groups for information, training and awareness raising:
Farmers who make their living using the natural resources on-site Inhabitants who live here Guests who come here to relax, re-create and learn Entrepreneurs (main focus on tourism and services) Stakeholder (politics, government, associations) These target groups are not always completely separated, but they have got different priorities. This is important for the chosen communication strategies and training programs. The coordination of activities in terms of communication and awareness raising is “work in progress” and offers huge process optimization potential.
7.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis)
STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES
Existing umbrella organization Few start-ups in the service and and philosophy of Nature Parks tourism sector Personal contact to players Good, important work is not really recognized as such Experience Coordination deficiencies
OPPORTUNITIES THREATS
Optimization potential of Aid money competition communication processes Mass tourism philosophy (greed) Branding Global warming (?) Rootage and identification of inhabitants
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7.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories.
The NP Soelktaeler began to use Social Media such as a Facebook account and uses it quite canny and successfully.
The Austrian Social Media community showed interest in a BarCamp on diversity, which is now planned for October 2011.
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7.5 CONCLUSIONS
The Nature Park Soelktaeler is one of the seven nature reserves in the Steiermark. The work of the Nature Park Soelktaeler is built on the four pillars protection, education, recreation and regional development. The overall organization is challenging, as there are different kinds of protected areas where different organizations are responsible. Native acceptance is of great importance for further development activities. In addition to appropriate information services the inhabitants should be part of the development processes. The region is economically underdeveloped. A lack of adequate jobs causes the emigration of well-educated people. Tourism exists, but there is quite a potential for optimization. It seems that the region is affected by global warming. Some areas are sensitive to storm, wind and water damage. The crystalline rocks of the Lower Tauern shape the landscape of Soelktaeler Nature Park. One result is the existence of beautiful lakes and water reservoirs. At several places within the area the Soelker Marble occurs. Due to its extreme toughness and beautiful coloring, it is well-renowned. The Soelker Marble is a USP of the region, with interesting development potential. The pastures of the Nature Park Soelktaeler are vital for agriculture and the overall appearance of the region, they are an important tourism asset. Additionally these pastures foster biodiversity. With the “Ennstal Almdiplom” the NP Soelktaeler offers an interesting “edutainment” (education and entertainment) program. There are more projects, which can be better coordinated and communicated in a more wholesome, holistic way.
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8. ESA report ITALY
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8.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
8.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. The National Park of Monti Sibillini Authority (Ente Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini) was founded by Presidential Decree (D.P.R.) on 6 August 1993, as published in the Official Gazette n. 275 of November 1993. It claims juridical identity and is under the authority of the Ministry of the Environment and Protection of Territory and Sea. The Park Authority’s legal and administrative headquarters are in the Municipality of Visso. The Park Authority operates in the National Park of Monti Sibillini, as defined by the perimeters marked on the official cartography. The mission of the National Park of Monti Sibillini is outlined in article 1, paragraph 1 of its Statute: “The Park Authority guarantees the conservation and valorisation of the natural, historic and cultural heritage and promotes the sustainable development of communities living in its territory”. This norm underwrites the existing National Law 394 that states that its objective is to “…guarantee and promote, in a coordinated manner, preservation and valorisation of Italy’s natural heritage.” (Art. 1, par. 1, LN 394). The National Law defines the objectives (art. 1, par. 3) as follow: 1. preservation (in the broad sense of the word) 2. application of management methods or environment restoration methods, including the safeguard of particular human activities; 3. promotion of formative and scientific activities; 4. promotion of compatible recreational activities; 5. safeguard of aquatic and hydro-geological equilibrium. The Park’s mission is perfectly expressed by the simple concept of preservation, together with valorisation, as inferred by the relevant norms. This means attributing a value of “quality, uniqueness” and therefore of “necessity and irreplaceability” to its resources. The Park Authority is also in charge of managing and preserving the Siti Natura 2000, located within the protected areas, as per Presidential Decree (D.P.R.) n. 357/1997 (and following additions or integrations), in reception of the European directives “Birds” 79/409/CEE and “Habitat” 92/43/CEE.
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8.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. The National Park of Monti Sibillini covers an area of 69,439 hectares, encompassing two Regions (Le Marche and Umbria), four Provinces (Ascoli Piceno, Fermo, Macerata, Perugia) and 18 Municipalities ((Acquacanina, Amandola, Arquata del Tronto, Bolognola, Castelsantangelo sul Nera, Cessapalombo, Fiastra, Fiordimonte, Montefortino, Montegallo, Montemonaco, Norcia, Pievebovigliana, Pievetorina, Preci, San Ginesio, Ussita, Visso). The Park is characterized by a vast mountain area of calcareous origin that includes territories from approximately 500 m above sea level up to peaks 2476 m above sea level (Mt. Vettore); it hosts rarities and endemisms as well as carsic plateau of great interest: the Castelluccio plateau is the largest national carsic plateau situated over 1500 m. above see level. In the Park is also the highest glacial lake of the Apennines, lake Pilato (1940m above see level). Woodland covers about 36% (25,278 ha.), primary and secondary pastures 34% (23,875 ha.), while cultivated areas cover 16% (11,234 ha.) of the surface of the Park. With regard to vegetation, up to 1000m, oak, Ostrya carpinifolia and Fraxinus ornus are predominant, followed by mixed and then pure beech. The limit of forest vegetation is around 1700-1750 m, that is about 100 m lower then original, due to cuttings de-forestation operated in the past for zoo-technical reasons. Rare and precious species, typical of primary pastures, are: Artemisia petrosa ssp. eriantha, Alpine Stella of the Apennine (Leontopodium alpinum ssp. Nivale), Viola eugeniae, Anemone millefoliata, Gentiana dinarica, Dryas octopetala. Of note, is also the presence of Ephedra nebrodensis in Valnerina and Carex disticha in Pian Grande, one of the two only Italian sites where it can be found. Fauna includes mammals, such as, Wolfs (30-35 specimens), wild Cats, porcupines, wild boars (1500 specimens) and roe deer (about 1200). Thanks to various projects reintroducing them, about 100 deer and 26 Apennine Chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica ornate) of which 8 were born in 2011, can be found in the Park today. Birds including 5 braces of Golden Eagle , Northern Goshawk, Peregrine Falcon, Eurasian Eagle-owl (1 pair), the Rock Partridge the Alpine Chough and the Red-billed Chough (184 pairs) and the Eurasian DotterelAmong reptiles it is of particular interest that the Sibillini Mountains is the north most habitat in Italy of the Ursini viper. Among the invertebrates we note that the Chirocefalo of Marchesoni is endemic around the Pilato Lake. The National Park of Monti Sibillini is characterized, in the hills area, by a widespread presence of centres of medieval origin. They are positioned strategically in respect to the main roads and accesses and are rich in historical and architectural elements.
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Map of the The National Park of Monti Sibillini, showing the administrative division among Municipalities and Provinces. Province of Fermo in red, Province of Ascoli in blue, Macerata in yellow and Perugia in green. Thirteen Municipalities have their main urban area within the boundaries of the protected area; 10 municipalities have more that 50% of their territory in the park area and 4 of these are entirely included in the Park. As other mountainous areas in Italy, the National park of Mount Sibillini is undergoing a steady process of de-population and territorial abandonment. This phenomenon, even if accompanied by events such as the disappearance of traditional activities, the unbalance in the use of resources and the loss of the original life-styles, has, nevertheless some positive connotations. Among them the return of wildlife (Wilderness), the reconstructed integrity of landscape and natural resources, as well as the return of rare and original Flora and Fauna. All these phenomena have a strong impact on the economical and social structure of the mountain areas. Therefore they need innovative, complex and integrated strategies of intervention that target a different model for the development and the valorisation of the territory. The total population of the Municipalities of the Park of Monti Sibillini in 2009 was 23,365 inhabitants, representing a very low decrease since 2001 (- 0,061%). The loss was more significant in the smaller municipalities, with some note worthy exceptions. Within the perimeter of the Park, the estimated population is 13,500. Currently the biggest proportion of the population is made up of older people, in line with the trend in nearly every mountain area. This is also due to the return of emigrants of the 50s and 60s, who in their youth moved to the towns in search of employment. They return to the Park to find a better quality of life such as more clean air and water, as well a life style that corresponds to the so called “the little lifelong happiness”.
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Current conditions have seen a re-balancing between the resident population and the territory. Considering the fact that an excess of residents in the highlands has in the past caused difficulties both from the social and economical point of view, this phenomenon presents some negative effects and it needs to be studied and managed carefully.
8.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. The National Park of Monti Sibillini encompasses 21 Community Interest Sites (17 in the Marche Region and 4 in the Umbria Region) and 4 Special Protection Zones, and they constitute 77% of the total area of the Park. CIS and SPZ areas nearly exactly coincide. In the following table the extension of the surface of Rete Natura 2000 is shown.
Special Protection Zones (SPZ) 46,874 ha Partly coinciding with CIS Number of SPZ 5 Community Interest Sites (CIS), 39,381 ha partially coinciding with SPZ Number of CIS 19 Zones of Integral Reserve 9,907 ha (14%) Zones of oriented Reserve 36,457ha (53%) Total highly safeguarded areas 67%
More specifically, the above mentioned Rete Natura covers 53,468.03 ha of the Park, and 94.996,7 ha of the ECST Area (Sustainable Tourism). Under the Frame Law on protected area (394/91), the Park plan has envisaged the division of the territory in 4 zones: A – Integral Reserves (9,907 ha, 14.27%), where natural environment is preserved in its integrity; B – Oriented General Reserves (36,457 ha, 52.5%), where it is forbidden to build any new construction, to enlarge existing ones, or to cause any alteration of the territory. Traditional productive activities such as agriculture, forestry and sheep-farming are nevertheless allowed. C – Protection Areas (21,565 ha, 31.06%), where, in harmony with the institutional objectives of the Park, the traditional agricultural, forestry and farming uses carry on. D – Areas for the economic and social advancement (1,510 ha, 2,17%), areas widely modified by anthropic processes, where, according to the directives of the Plan, residential, productive and service related activities aiming at improving life conditions and socio-cultural perspectives of local communities are carried out and developed.
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The Park zoning has been defined, keeping in mind the need for ecological connections. Therefore, unlike many other mountain parks, where areas with different levels of protections appear as concentric rings, in the Park of Monti Sibillini the areas of higher environmental value (Zones A and B) have been delineated in order to constitute Ecological Corridors to the surrounding territories. As previously described, the Park Plan also envisages the identification, agreed with local stakeholders, of Landscape Units One of the functions of these Landscape Units is to promote the correct management for ecologically and socially homogeneous territories, even when they belong to different administrative areas. Another important function is to create Ecological Corridors connecting areas of high environmental value in the Park with external areas, including other protected areas along the Apennine.
8.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). In the central Apennine, the National Park of Monti Sibillini shares a considerable geographical continuity with the mountains of the National Park of Gran Sasso – Monti della Laga (150,000 ha), situated further south, and with the National Park of Maiella (74,000 ha), the National Park of Abruzzi, Lazio and Molise (50,000 ha) and the Regional Park of Sirente Velino (50,000 ha). With the above mentioned parks, the Park of Monti Sibillini is at the heart of the group of parks that take part to the APE project – Apennine Park of Europe for the preservation of nature and the promotion of sustainable development. The project involves the entire Apennine chain, that runs for about 1500 Km. from Piedmont to Sicily, covering more then one third of the national territory and encompassing more then 2300 municipalities belonging to 64 Provinces and 15 Regions. The National Park of Monti Sibillini has cooperated and still cooperates with several mountain protected areas, situated both in the vicinity and in territories outside of Italy, with whom they share similar problems. On a Regional level, some projects are currently being carried out in cooperation with the Regional Park of Gola della Rossa and Frasassi, as well as with the Natural Reserve “Montagna di Torricchio”. The Park also takes part, as associated beneficiary, to the “Ex-tra” Project, aimed at spreading good practices in the management of big mammals (among the partners: the National Park of Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga, the National Park of the Tosco-Emilian Apennine, as well as partners from Romania, Bulgaria and Greece), and to the Life Project “Coornata”, for the preservation of the Apennine Chamois (other partners: the National Park of Maiella, the National Park of Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga, the National Park of Abruzzi, Lazio and Molise and the Regional Park of Sirente Velino). The Park is also a partner in the Europarc Federation and of Charter Network, as it adheres to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism. The Park also takes part in the Working group for the development of the European Charter, through the Italian section of Europarc.
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8.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. The main environmental problems of the Park are connected to the general anthropic pressure on natural components. Water resources are particularly exploited, primarily for drinking water, hydroelectricity and for fish farming. There are, also, some critical situations caused by the excessive number of recreational and tourist activities and the use of motorized vehicles in sensitive areas. Poaching is quite wide spread, together with the existence of a large number of stray dogs. Recently completed constructions, as well as large scale infrastructure and energy plants in the areas around the Park, constitute a potential threat to the integrity of the eco-systems and of the landscape. Social conflicts are mainly due to the damages caused to agricultural activities by some species, particularly the Wild Boar and the Wolf. Conflicts are also caused by hunting prohibitions and limits in building permits. Other social and economic problems are common to many mountain areas. The creation of the Park is an important opportunity for the social and economic development of the area. This can be achieved through the valorisation of environment resources, the promotion of local products, the support to local traditions and culture, the encouragement of responsible and sustainable tourism. Some projects of the Park, in fact, aim at increasing the natural qualities of the territory, re-introducing some fauna species and re-qualifying environment and tourism (Visitor centres, Park Logo…).
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8.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
8.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. The main priority of the park is preservation, therefore all the other aspects of economic policies have a subordinate (if still very important) role. The economic policies for sustainable development in the Park are defined in the Economic and Social Multi-year Plan (PPES), under the Art. 14 of the Law 394/91. The PPES is elaborated following directions from the Park Community, an organ formed by the Representatives of various local Authorities. In the case of MSNP in the Park Community the Marche Region and Umbria Regions, the Province of Ascoli Piceno, Fermo, Macerata and Perugia, and the 18 municipalities of the Park are represented. The Economic and Social multi-year Plan (PPES) was elaborated and approved by the Park Community in 2000. Following the directive of the Board of Directors (2001) it was then passed to the Regions, that are still evaluating it, together with the Plan of the Park. This constitutes a critical element. The PPES indicates sustainable tourism and food farming as the main activities to be promoted and given incentives. Even though the PPES has not been adopted yet, it has been the point of reference for all interventions done in the park. In particular, the Park has increased planning, introducing two instruments to guarantee sustainable economic development: . A five-year strategy for the sustainable development in the MSNP . The Plan of environmental interpretation With regard to food agriculture, the Plan for sustainable agriculture has been developed. The PPES underlines the necessity to integrate all local policies, in order to act as a “Sibillini System”, overcoming localisms and administrative boundaries. From this point of view, totally embraced by the Park, it is important to highlight the active participation of the Park to the Local Action Groups (Leader and Leader plus EU Programmes), aiming at sharing the development reached through economically sustainable activities. There are also obvious connections to the Rural Development Plans (operating in the Regions). In 2011, thanks to EU funds and the initiative of the Marche Region, an agreement called Agro-Environment Plan was made, with the Park as leader partner. This agreement is currently restricted to 4 municipalities but encompasses more than 10,000 ha of Community Sites. It represents an innovative instrument for the programming of interventions aimed at rural development. Its objective is the promotion, within a defined territory, of a packet of measures aiming at addressing common concerns: soil protection, safeguarding of water resources, reclaiming of the rural landscape, protection of bio- diversity. With regard to the protection of bio-diversity, particularly in the Natura 2000 areas, a packet of measures has been put into place aimed at preserving the natural bio-diversity, through
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agreements among the agriculture entrepreneurs of a given defined area and through a system of compensations. Worth of note is also the development of new professions connected to environment services (see sections 8.2.2 and 8.2.3), as well as the reduction of damage caused by the wild Fauna. While for the development of new professions the process is just starting and is still quite limited, the problem of the reduction of damage caused by wild Fauna is particularly relevant since it is directly connected to the level of “economic” satisfaction of the local residents. In 2010 a total of 232,000 € have been paid as compensation (granted up to 80%) towards damage caused by wild Boars (95%), by Wolf (or canines, 4%, nearly all the remaining), with a considerable increase – nearly double - in respect to 2008. The problem is dealt with by culling (an average of 500/year) and also with use of traps and prevention, even though, in this instance, the effort doesn’t produce adequate results.
8.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. We can summarize them in the following aspects: Concession of the logo of the Park; Plan for a sustainable agriculture; Creation of Guides of the Park. The Park Logo The Park approved in 2006 the regulations for the concession of the emblem of the Park to companies and enterprises that comply with particular requirements for environment quality. The sectors that are eligible for the concession are: agriculture, food production, water hospitality and catering typical and traditional productions handicraft special events The modality of concession of the emblem to the various sectors is defined through special protocols. Currently the approved protocols apply to agriculture, food production, water, hospitality and catering, typical and traditional productions. The regulations for the concession of the Park emblem to tourist activities refers back to the set of rules defined in 2004 by the Ministry of Environment and territory protection and conservation.
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These regulations require that the tourist enterprises commit, following a specific plan, to improve their environmental performances and to respect some quality standards aiming at insuring: increased environmental sustainability of tourist activities ; valorisation of natural resources and of local culture and products; activities for dissemination and awareness raising with regard to the principles of sustainable tourism, directed at the general public. The objectives that the Park aims at achieving through the concession of the emblem are: boost the development of sustainable tourism; improve the touristic offer in the Park , promoting conditions of sustainable and competitive growth; encourage the adoption of gradual improvements of the quality of products and services; encourage people working in the tourism sector to adopt measures and solutions aimed at reducing as much as possible the impact of their activity on the environment; Offer the tourism sector an instrument to increase visibility on the market; Offer a strong synergy between the public and the private sector, in order to produce high quality tourist products able to reinforce the image of environmental quality already expressed by the Park, in accordance with the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism; Include the Park Logo among the important elements of the territorial marketing. Requirements in order to obtain the concession of the logo: • Environmental sustainability, both in relation to global eco-system and to the specific characteristics of the territory of the National Park of Monti Sibillini; • Social sustainability both for the client-user and for the local community; • Economic sustainability for the client-user, for the tourism activity and for the local community. The tourist facilities commit, during the three years of concession, to activate a plan for introducing further measures aimed at reaching quality standards that will guarantee: Increased sustainability of the tourist activity; Valorisation of natural resources and of local culture and products; Dissemination and raising awareness, with regard to the principles of sustainable tourism, directed at the general public. The hospitality and catering structures that have received the emblem are, therefore, an active part of the process that aims at evaluating and improving the quality of the environment and of the services provided in the Park.
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The advantages for the beneficiary can be summarised as follow: Be a “structure advised by the Park” Appear to the client as a “supplier of environmental quality in the park” Associate their image to that of the park Benefit from all communication and promotion activities connected to the “quality route” guaranteed by the park The Park offers promotion by: Offering visibility on the web site among the advised structures Promoting the “supplier of environmental quality” through brochures, advertising, publicity in specialized magazines and on the web site www.parks.it; Involving them in activities and initiatives and project carried out by the park; Printing of specific information material to be distributed to their clients; Making the info boards to be displayed in the various structures; Making a ceramic plate to display outside the structure, with the logo and the “Advised by the Park” phrase. The plan for a sustainable agriculture The entire plan represents, per se, a good practice. The main points of this initiative are described below. Primary objectives of the intervention: A. Valorisation and promotion of so called “traditional” and quality products of the territory in the protected area; B. Valorisation of farms by encouraging the public to buy product directly from the producer. C. Incentives to farmers in mountain areas. Actions carried out in order to reach the above objectives: A. Creation of a packet of guided tours (the paths of taste) in the farms that are involved in the programme. B. Printing of a brochure to be distributed in all info points and welcome points of the National Park of Monti Sibillini. C. Creation of a space, within the official Park’s web site, entirely dedicated to the 70 farms involved. A very important part of the project is the opening of Information Front offices for the Sustainable Agriculture Project and of the Window for the agricultural products of the Park. This section is divided in four phases: Identification of the agricultural products to be promoted
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Identification of the producers Data collecting from the producers Programming of the guided tours Chosen Products The products chosen to be promoted are the products characterized by a strong tradition and very high quality (both in terms of product and of environment). The second phase concerned the research of farms that had products that fulfilled the above criteria and that were selling them directly to the consumers. During this phase assistance was provided by the workers of the Park’s Houses (13), especially trained through a course organized by the consultants and collaborators of the PAS project. Using the map of the farms operating in the territory of the protected area, previously prepared by the working group of PAS, the workers of Park’s Houses have contacted the farms that were not included in the original list. At the same time, a public announcement was made all over the territory, in order to inform all the farmers, including those that could have not been contacted. A total of thirteen farms have answered the announcement and joined the project. In total, 70 farms were found that satisfied the requested criteria. The workers of the Park’s Houses have taken care of the third phase: by using a questionnaire, they have collected a great deal of data concerning the characteristics, the history and the products of the farms involved. This phase was very important not only in order to raise awareness about the activities carried out by the Park within the project, but also to give the possibility to the farmers to offer their cooperation and to give consent for their personal data to be used. Besides, the collected data have been used to put together the promotional material (brochure and web pages). On the web site www.sibillini.net there is an entire section named “Testes / Flavours… of the Park”.
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The fourth phase consists of the guided tour of the farms. It follows a precise procedure and costs € 3,00 per person. 35 itineraries have been suggested and they are called “The Taste Paths”. Development of new professions in the environmental sector. Park guides. The Park has always considered of the uttermost importance education and interpretation of the environment. It has, therefore, sustained instruments and projects that would increase environmental education and awareness and helped in the training of the Park’s Guides. With regard to new professions connected to environmental education, and, consequently, relating to the development of didactic tourism mainly addressed at schools, the Park has supported the creation of qualified Centres for Environmental Education (CEA). These centres are managed privately. The Park has also encouraged the creation of structures suitable to host educational activities (Centre of the Two Parks in Arquata del Tronto, Visitor Centre for the Chamois of Fiastra and connected fauna area, Visit Centre for the deer and connected fauna area, Anthropogeographic Museum in Amandola, Ecomuseum of the Charcoal Kilns in Cessapalombo). Today the Park counts 8 CEA and the personnel running them carry out the educational projects promoted by the Park, offering educational services to the segments of school tourism and educational-recreational tourism. The Park has trained, through 150 hour vocational courses, 102 Park Guides, of which 33 are currently enrolled in the official Register of Park’s Guides. The training course was based on the necessity of forming guides that were able to transmit to the visitors the values of the Park, by using inclusive communication techniques. The title of Park Guide is a professional qualification, but it does not automatically allow the inclusion in the official register. The Park Guides that accompany visitors need to be also registered, under the current national law (alpine guides, mountain guides, tourist guides, etc). Some of the guides also operate in the Park’s Centres or in Cooperatives that offers services in the Park’s Houses. The Park Guides every year prepare a programme rich in activities that includes one day or several day guided tours, environmental education activities, practical and educational laboratories, etc. The average cost of an excursion is € 10 per person, if the minimum number of participants is reached. Some guides’ only or primary occupation is the guiding activity.
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8.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. Among the initiatives that the Park plans to introduce are some aimed at valorising traditional agricultural products. Some of these activities are included in the five-year Strategy for sustainable tourism. Other activities pertain to the sector of eco-sport and, more strictly, to ecology. They are: Project "Sibilla’s Menu"; Park Quality Club; Zones of exceptional fauna-flora and environment value; Certified horse tracks; Faunistic areas. The "Sibilla’s Menu" project has the following objectives: Develop a network of restaurants that promote traditional and local products - Improve, through the Sibilla’ image, local gastronomy - Boost the tourist offer connected to gastronomy By using the Forum planned by ECST as an instrument of encounter and exchange, it will be possible to develop the network of Sibilla’s Restaurants. This apparently very simple intervention is based on long preparation work that has been carried out for some time and that can be synthesized in the following activities: Creation of a short chain of food processing and distribution; Historical investigation and census of the “typical traditional gastronomy dishes”. The Park Quality Club Project represents a development of the concession of the Park’s emblem. In fact, all the hospitality and catering enterprises that have obtained the Park’s emblem belong to the Quality Club. The project Zones of exceptional fauna-flora and environment value has the objective of finding and regulating certain areas - maximum a few hectares . There, eco tourism will be allowed only with Park guides and a charge will be applied. Particular attention will be given to the observation of Deer, Roe deer, Apennine Chamois, Golden Eagle and Wolf. Further projects for hunting and photography from rentable shooting boxes and an Official Herb Path are under evaluation. The project Horse Trucks. Led by an initiative of the Ministry of Environment and territory protection and conservation, a Great path of National Parks has been identified. It connects a 216 Km long ring truck in the National Park of Monti Sibillini with the 416 Km long ring track in the National Park of Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga, with the 157 Km long track of the National Park of Majella. The Great Path is currently practicable only by using the paper map printed for the project promoted by the Ministry itself. The project aims at evaluating
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the opportunity, the feasibility and the convenience of promoting equestrian tourism through the development of horse tourist tracks, with the support of local equestrian associations. The Faunistic Area project aims are the identification and organisation of new faunistic Areas, to be added to the two already existing (Deer and Apennine Chamois), ideally half the municipalities, about nine in total. This could be achieved by concentrating on some attractive species that are easier to manage. Currently these species are still Deer, Roe deer and Wild boar and Avifauna of humid areas (three sites, one inside and two outside the Park, but adjoining). The possibility and economic viability of creating considerably smaller faunistic areas (Faunistic gardens) is under evaluation for the following entities: Passeriformes Herpetofauna Entomofauna Another sub-project is the "The Grandparents Landscape”, the reconstruction of the landscape of the end of 19th and mid 20° century, using a few hectares of landscapes highly used and worked for mere subsistence.
8.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. 1. Institutional actors: - National(Executive Committee, Board of Directors) - EELL components of the Park community 2. Stakeholders:
- Farmers associations and independent farmers - Associations of stockbreeders and/or independent stock breeders - Food processing industries - Environmentalist associations - Cooperative/ Enterprises that manage service structures in th Park (Park’s Houses, Wildlife area of Suede, Wildlife and deer Heritage Center of Castelsantangelo Sul Nera): - Cooperatives and enterprises that provide tourist services - Park’s Guides - Owner/managers of hospitality and catering enterprises - Managers of G.A.S. Refuges (Great Ring of the Sibillini) and of the Centre of the Two Parks.
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Apart from the institutional bodies, all the enterprises, groups and associations listed above are willing to be involved in the projects because they are interested in activities that produce revenue. Some of these activities overlap with existing traditional ones, where the innovative aspects refer mainly to “how” the activity can be done. It must be noticed, though, that modifying an existing activity in order to point it towards eco-compatibility, sustainability and taste, is also a culturally difficult process that presents considerable problems (low quality, tendency to refuse innovation). Most other cases concern new professions that, even if attractive to young people willing to take risks and/or to try out, carry some big disadvantages such as the economic risk, the necessity to raise interest and create needs and the necessity to educate a new and more demanding consumer.
8.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis) The main problems, in this sector, concern the stability of financing. The Park, being a non profit Public Authority, depends largely on contributions coming from the Ministry. This constitutes 85% of its revenue, while 8% (fluctuating) depends on the contributions coming from other Authorities and only 4% comes from the direct sale of products (brochures, catalogues, gadgets, etc.) and services. Since nearly 70% of expenses are running costs (19 employees, 9 Visitor Centres, 6 Refuges, 13 Park Houses, 11 Museums, nearly all entirely financed), it is clear that a further cut to the budget would put at risk the existence of the Park itself, in its current form. Another big disadvantage is the little consideration that local communities give to environmental, historical and landscape values, and the consequent lack of valorisation of the numerous resources. Hospitality and services are often charged too much and still produce scarce revenue. Very little is invested, or the quality of investment is low. Adequate behaviour is often not even expected; in fact this often clashes with the regulations of the Park itself. The Park image has less credibility in comparison to other National Parks and Protected areas and this is not justified either by the objective qualities of the Park, or by its dimension (the Park constitutes 5% of the surface of all National Parks and, for its extension, it is 11th out of 24). The modest image is also confirmed by the low work force (19 employees instead of the 35 planned, as in other park of similar qualities)) Threats are mainly represented by economic initiatives in clear contrast with preservation (new buildings, excessive exploitation of natural resources) and by detrimental sport and recreational activities (driving off-road or extreme and invasive sports). The widespread lack of education of the average national and local tourist is also a problem. The best tourist comes from far away. Opportunities are to be found in the great quality of natural resources. The typical Apennine balance between environment and mountain landscape offers a scenary that is never as harsh and incumbent as the Alpine one. An added fascination is given to the area by the air
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of mystery that popular traditions, myths and legends give to the area, in full accordance with the natural “coyness” of these places. The most important challenge, probably crucial in the near future, is to improve communication and raise the image of the Park. This must be directed externally (at national and international level), to give more credibility to the functions, the objectives, the efforts and the results obtained by the Park in preserving the environment, as well as internally. By internally, we refer to local communities, administrations and residents, and to institutional organizations somehow involved with the Park (starting with the two Regions, the four Provinces and the five Mountain Communities). Different strategies should be used. For the users (tourists), communication will focus on emotions, on the perceived quality, on cultural and spiritual involvement, on physical well being and relaxation. For the Park’s inhabitants and for the administrators it will be necessary to focus on current and future economic opportunities, as well as on the quality of life in the Park areas.
8.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories Besides previously described initiatives (see chapters 8.2.2. and 8.2.3.) it will be necessary to intervene in the following sectors: a. Sport activities. So far, these have been activities not in tune with preservation, sometimes in direct conflict with it. Every year in the Park a considerable number of events are hosted, with the resulting large influx of participants and logistic problems. On top of that, all sport events are free of charge and are based on the outdated concept of the concession (with limitations aimed at reducing the damage). It is necessary to follow a new course of action: 1. Charge for every event or activity; 2. Create a certain level of empathy with Nature. Every sport activity, independent and/or authorized, will have to bring direct benefits to the Park and its inhabitants. Indirect benefits some times might be non-existent, as in the case of extreme sport such as climbing or mountain biking. The Park can not be a free gym! b. parkings and entrance should no longer be free of charge. Parking for cars and campervans should be charged, as in most of Europe, in properly equipped areas. Another good practice could be to apply charges to cross certain paths in particularly valuable sites – both reachable by shuttle bus or on foot. It is believed that applying a charge to access sites and use services will have a positive impact on local economy and will also have an educational connotation, in order to develop an understanding of and a higher sensibility to environmental issues. Appealing educational projects will have to be proposed, so that whenever a charge is applied, there will be an acceptable and suitable reason for it.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 8.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
8.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. The Organization Monti Sibillini National Park is a no profit public body. It institutional bodies are: the President; the Board of Directors, the Executive Council, the Auditing Board and the Park Committee. The President is the legal representative of the Organization and he coordinates the Park’s activities. The Board of Directors is made up of the President and twelve directors, six of those nominated by Local Authorities, it determines the address of Park planning and management and monitors its implementation. The Executive Council is made up of the President, the Vice- President and three persons elected by the Board of Directors. The Auditing Board is made up of three persons who exercise the administrative and financial check on the Park’s documents. The Park Committee is made up of Presidents of all Territorial Authorities (Region, Province, Municipalities, and Mountain Communities) which are included into the Parks’ borders. It is an advisory body. The Director is the only executive of the Park. He is responsible for the park management on the legal framework of the Park legislation. The permanent staff (19- 20 people) has its personnel plant. The Park hasn’t got an own surveillance system, the National Forest Corp trough The Regional Coordination for the Environment (CTA) is responsible for the Park surveillance. The Public Bodies involved in the Park functions are: Ministries, Regions, Provinces, Mountain Communities, Municipalities, Agricultural, Communities, the National Forest Corp, Universities and Research Institutes. 1. Ministries: the Park Organization is under the authority of the Ministry of the Environment and Protection of Territories according to the Law of 6 December 1991 n° 394 and it complies with the disposition under the Law of 20 March 1975 n° 70. The Organization submits its budgets to the Ministry of the Economy while other acts or documents are subjected to the Public Function Department. 2. Marche and Umbria Regions: Regions participate in European Funds and in different projects. They adopt and approve the Park Plan; they can be involved on the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA), on Environment Strategy Assessment (ESA) and on territorial relevant changes. 3. Province of Macerata, Fermo, Ascoli Piceno and Perugia: they interact with the Park on different projects, on administrative procedures (i.e. EIA, ESA, etc), on provincial planning and municipal planning assessment. 4. Mountain Communities of Camerino, Monti Azzurri, Sibillini, Tronto, Valnerina: they present to the Park different proposals and projects about forest management plans in order to receive recommendations and mandates. 5. Municipalities (see the list above): they have permanent contacts with the Park in order to receive different mandates (social and cultural events and activities, urban construction on the territory, general planning, energetic resources, etc.
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6. Agricultural Communities: they are public associations made up of residents and owners who jointly manage large and less productive territories. The Agricultural Communities are important for the Park planning, in terms of potential rents and of safeguard and preservation regulations. 7. National Forest Corp (in case of the Park the Regional Coordination for the Environment -CTA): It is responsible for the surveillance on the Park’s territories and in this activity is under the Park authority. The Station Commands under the Regional Coordination for the Environment are 9 (8 in the Marche region and 1 in the Umbria region). CTA has the following functions: administrative, technical (in the forest framework), surveillance and legal department. The CTA can rely on 36 cars of Park’s property, 3 snow mobiles, 3 trucks for the animal transportation, plus an electric eye tuck. 8. Universities and Research Institutes. The Park cooperated and still cooperate with five Universities (Roma, Siena, Perugia, Camerino and Ancona) in the frame of the Research; the Park submit to the ISPRA (ex National Institute for the Savage Fauna) issues or projects in order to obtain recommendation or in order to jointly decide wildlife management interventions.
8.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). The Park Authority uses programming as a method to perform its institutional role. This activity is carried out mainly through the Park Plan, currently adopted by the Marche and Umbria Regions and waiting to be approved. The Park promotes and favours: gathering in associations, consulting activities, the right to file a petitions or motion, cooperation with different organizations and public or private authorities, cultural and educational initiatives, environment education, research and studies activities, as well as initiatives aiming at improving of socio-cultural conditions of the park’s residents. Within its autonomy, the Park stipulates contracts and financial agreements and takes part in programmes agreements and service conferences. The Park submits for approval its activities to various public Authorities. To the Region of Marche and Umbria it submits the Park’s Plan and the long-term Economic and Social Plan for compatible activities; to the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Finance it submits its budgets. Other acts referring to organizational issues and personnel are under the supervision of the Public Works Department . Priorities. As mentioned before, the Park’s priorities are all connected to preservation. Fruition is not an objective of the Park, but an important instrument to reach better preservation. That is only acceptable where the fruition is eco-compatible. And this is not enough. Every type of possible result should produce a better understanding of and empathy with Nature.
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The same should apply to promotion and research that are not goals per se, but means for better preserving Nature. Following the above statements, it must be noticed, though, that the financial weight of the offices is not completely coherent with this premises. In fact, resources destined to the strategic area of preservation are only marginally higher, with 26% of annual time-budget, than those allocated to tourism and promotion 25%; only 4% is used for research and environmental education (third strategic area). 47% of the time-budget goes on the up- keeping of the administrative functions. The vision of the National Park, seen as a “manifesto” of its ideals, values and aspirations, has undergone two profound changes. At first there was the conception of the Under siege Citadel, to be defended at all costs, followed by the idea of the “Park Gymnasium”, “Open to everybody” without any charge and where everything was allowed as long as it wasn’t harmful. It is not sufficient, today, to consider certain behaviours harmless and to approve of them or even promote them, as long as they supposedly do not cause any damage. In fact, no behaviour is innocuous, when it reaches a certain threshold, given by the number of users. Today’s vision, as opposed to the previous period of de-responsabilisation, is that of the Park Sanctuary. An area endowed with a strong sacral connotation that hosts and welcomes its visitors. It allows and facilitates activity but poses precise rules of behaviour. A Welcoming Sanctuary that helps to grow. The objectives of the management are the preservation of the existing qualities of the environment, landscape and flora and fauna, assisting the natural processes of return of nature. In order to facilitate such process it is necessary to apply: Re-introduction of local fauna (Deer, Apennine Chamois); Monitoring, checking and social validation of problematic species (Wild Boar, Wolf, Dear); Monitoring and planning of eco-tourism using “educational” and manageble species (the ones mentioned before as well as Golden Eagle, Scavenger Raptors - Rock Partridge, Roe Deer; Surveillance over the respect of norms and rules; adoption of safe procedures for the assignment of authorizations and permits. Such limitations will help to maintain, also in urban areas surrounding the Park, a certain level of wilderness (to the advantage of Chiropteras (bats), Passeriformes, Amphibians…); Forming of a naturalistic sensibility and empathy toward the environment; Promotion of eco-compatible activities Expected results are the reaching of a faunistic balance based on the K level (maximum loading capacity for all species, except for wild boar, because of its impact) and a strengthening of the image of the Park as: Occasion of better life conditions for the residents;
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Involvement of the residents in the rational use of renewable natural resources; Guarantee of environment and management quality (both at national and European level). All this to be achieved in 10-15 years. Opportunities and main problems. They were already listed in 8.2.5. The following can be added. 1. Opportunities Improvement of the relationship with the local communities, thanks to direct participation in meetings and contacts with the institutional organisations; Reinforcement of good interpersonal relationships ; Strengthening of listening attitude, moderation ability and negotiation skills when facing critical issues (“getting to yes” strategy”); Adoption of the “win-win” attitude Understanding of the problems of all the stakeholders Increasing attention from the public authorities and organizations to the activities and opportunities of the Park; Round tables also with categories potentially hostile to or not in favour of the Park (hunters, breeders, etc.); Economic incentives, also from Europe; Full introduction of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in order to distinguish themselves Increase of the European and extra-European tourism, often more competent, adequately behaved and less demanding than national tourism. 2. Problems Long bureaucratic times for the adoption of the Park Plan, that is nevertheless operative; Operational deficiencies in the surveillance service (National Forest Corp- CTA) , that the Park functionally depends on but is, in fact, independent; Scarce involvement of the CTA in the problems related to preservation and management of the Park, that results in undervaluation and lack of prevention in manageable situations; Insufficient number – in any case - of personnel in the CTA (40 instead of 70), also because some of their duties are not in line with the objectives of the Park; Shortage of professional figures, also in the operative field. The Park , for example, does not have manual workers Covering up of poaching by the local communities
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Disorganization and lack of programmes and controls in hunting activities around the borders of the park. Prevalence of quarrels, localisms, difficulty in creating partnership (administrators and citizens); Internal micro-conflicts (among the Park’s employees); Slow process of growth of the tourist sector and higher competitiveness of other areas; Lack of motivation in the young generation and resistance in accepting the challenge of new professions, including in highly valuable tourist offer; Local tendency to offer services free of charge, depleting them of their economic potential and depriving them of quality (low standard service – low revenue or no revenue at all); Access of tourists in fragile areas and strong resistance from the local administrators to discipline and make profitable this phenomenon.
8.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. Cooperation and coordination with other local actors in planning, managing and preserving sensitive areas, are quite articulated and involve the majority of the Park’s activities. In particular, the organizations and authorities primarily involved are the Park’s Community and the 18 Municipalities of the Park. Within the Park planning, the Park Authority has guaranteed the participation and coordination with local Authorities and with the Regions, under the Law n. 394/1991 and further amendments. Coordination and cooperation with local actors pertains mainly to: creation and management of structures and infrastructures in the Park (Visitors Centres, Faunistic Centres, Refuges, paths); projects of requalification of sensitive areas (i.e. Foce di Montemonaco and Castelluccio di Norcia); managing and preservation of the fauna. In synthesis, other local actors are: local schools, various associations (cultural, sport, producers, guides and tourism sector), broad groups (hunters, breeders…), citizens or small groups with particular interests. At the individual level, meetings tend to be informal and they are generally held in the Park’s headquarters. At a semi-official level (for projects or small scale initiatives), meetings are held both at the Park’s headquarter or in the institutional office of the municipality or association. At official level, meetings are nearly always held in the Park’s headquarters. Meetings are arranged by writing, phone or e-mail, when they are official, by means of a telephone call or e-mail massage in the other cases. In the majority of cases, informal meetings are organized to exchange information and requests. Formal meetings are often closed after taking a
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series of decisions. The park is an active participant in the meetings and it also takes part in meetings of associations the Park is member of.
8.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. The Park promotes the involvement of general public in planning, managing and preserving sensitive areas and protected species. In particular, in the Plan for the Park, the Park authority has provided the general public with all relevant information and has encouraged citizens to be involved and send their observation, as stated in the Law n. 394/1991. Specific activities are now being carried out in the frame of the Life projects: Life “Ex-Tra” project. Some of the main activities concern the involvement of Sheep farmers in interventions for handling the Wolf and other carnivores. Several meetings have taken place, some at informative levels, other aiming at sharing the problems of sheep farming in areas with predators. The meetings are conducted by specialized members of the staff and supervision of participation is ensured by a university department. "Life Coornata" project. Involvement of local economic actors aiming at valorise the presence of the Apennine Chamois. Volunteers, environmentalist associations and local administrators take part in this project; European Charter for Sustainable Tourism. The Charter envisages the creation of a forum that would allow all the local actors involved in tourist activities, to participate actively. The Forum should provide suggestions and ideas to elaborate the five-year strategy of sustainable tourism and, then, assist in its implementation. The Forum would contribute greatly in the creation of a necessary synergy to work as “Tourist System of Sibillini”. Other initiatives concern and will concern other stakeholders, like: Association of Parks’ employees (Ass. 394), Presidents of Protected Areas (Federparchi), Directors and managers of Protected Areas (AIDAP); Environmentalist associations (Italian Alpine Club, Italia Nostra, WWF, Lega Ambiente, ect.) Organized and not organized groups of hunters and/or selecontrollers (people authorised to keep Wild boars under control, using firearms). Issues and problems are raised and involvement encouraged through meetings, conferences and debates. Formative courses and courses on management of the fauna are offered to hunters and/or selecontrollers in order to improve their preparation and increase their desire to cooperate.
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8.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). Opportunities Improvement of relationships with administrators and citizens due to the numerous contacts; Good synergy with regional and provincial technical offices; increased cooperation with The Mountain Communities. Strenghts Experience and ability of the employees in dealing with complex problems and facing different stakeholders and administrators. Challanges Improve the relationship with hunters, also from the image point of view, by getting them involved in the wildlife operation of the Park (monitoring, reintroduction, control of problematic species); Devise way of getting Wolves to be appreciated as a resource (ecotourism, support to the breeders based on their level of cooperation – not taking into account compensations); Improve the professional level of people working in zootechnics, also as far as the image is concerned; Stimulate the tourist sector to introduce higher quality projects (hospitality, products, etc.) Necessities Create special areas for hunting, at the borders of the Park, based on central European models; Guarantee regular influx of financing; Augment number of staff Direction and effective command over surveillance staff (at least 6 people) Availability of at least 4 manual workers; Problems (weaknesses, constrictions, threats) Absence of cohesion among the Park’s Municipalities; lack of homogeneousness both territorial and administrative (5 Municipalities have territories covering thousands of hectares and less then 500 inhabitants); Subjective perception of the isolation of the Park Overload of work and competences due to insufficient number of staff and absence of Regulations for the internal coordination of the Park;
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Difficulty in accessing European projects due to lack of competent staff, mainly in the sector of fund raising (coordination with other authorities); Presence of a large number of administrators that do not share the objectives of the Park; Further estrangement (detachment) from shared objectives and coordination among various authorities (especially the municipalities), due to lower government funds.
8.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. Good practices 1 European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST) ECST undoubtedly represents an example of good practices for the planning of sustainable activities in protected areas. This Charter has been elaborated, for Euro-park Federation, by European representatives of protected areas, tourism sector and their partners. It is one of the priorities within the “Parks for life” actions of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It conforms to the principles expressed in the World Charter for Sustainable Tourism, elaborated in Lanzarote in 1995. The Charter is not a mere list of principles, but represents a methodology aimed at finding a correct way of managing protected areas and a method that would guarantee the sustainability of tourism in the protected area (environmental, social and economic sustainability). Currently 78 protected areas have obtained the Charter. Specific objectives Improve awareness and support for European protected areas, vital elements of our natural heritage that must be protected and safeguarded for present and future generations; Improve sustainable tourism and promote a form of tourism in protected areas that keeps into account the needs of the environment as well as those of local communities, commercial enterprises and visitors. Essential activities implemented. Work jointly, in order to involve all actors of the tourist sector in the development and management of the protected area; Develop and implement an effective strategy for sustainable tourism and an action plan for the protected area Identify the key factors for safeguarding and improving the natural and cultural legacy of the area, at the same time protecting it from inconsiderate tourist development: offer to the visitors a high standard of quality in all phases of their
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visit; efficiently communicate to the visitors the specific characteristics of the area; encourage a tourism connected to particular products that would help in the understanding and discovery of the territory; Organize courses on UCST for employees and all staff involved in the protected area: create Forums and Round Tables with the various actors operating in the area in the tourism sector; produce an analysis of the tourist market in the protected area, evaluating strategies, opportunities and the environmental, social end economic impact. Target groups. Tourism workers, associations, administrators, tourists. Direct and indirect Beneficiaries. Same as above. Results and impacts. The National Park of Monti Sibillini has obtained the Charter in 2002 and it has been renewed after the 5 year term (further info and documents at http://www.sibillini.net/attivita/turismoSostenibile/index.html) Good Practices 2 Plan for a Sustainable Agriculture (see 3.2.2) Good Practices 3 and 4 Project of Areas of Wildlife - Florist - Environmental Excellence and wildlife areas (to elaborate cf. 3.3.3 and 3.3.5)
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 8.4 AWARENESS RAISING
8.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. Objectives and priorities. Given that the premise highlighted a lack of “image” of the Park, objectives and priorities can be summed up in one: Correctly and efficiently communicate the mission (first of all, conserve – second, promote and sustain cultural, social and economic growth as well as educate and promote research) and the vision (Welcoming Sanctuary) of the Park. Strategy accept confrontation; promote participation; work on emotions in order to pull down the wall of prejudices; introduce new values and new information; reinforce those through demonstrations and examples. Methods and activities: ensure that the values, mission and vision of the Park are well understood and shared by the employees and by the collaborators; include in any action an educational content; transmit the message and the values of the Park through its visitor centres, museums, Park’s Houses, and through every other mean that allows a direct contact with the stakeholders; improve employees’ training, in order to improve their communication and reliability in dealing with the outside; give new life to environmentalist associations and to the allies of the past, trying to encourage their cooperation; All the above thanks to personal contacts, organized thematic public meetings, debates, etc. This is not contained in a specific document (it will be drawn up in the near future), but the guidelines are expressed in the Plan for Performance, published and available on line.
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8.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. The Authorities and public organizations, as well as the associations involved in this series of actions are the ones listed in chapter 8.3.1 and 8.3.3. Their structure and area of competence is also described in those chapters. Many of those categories listed in chapter 8.3.3, though, are receptors and not actors of the above mentioned activities.
8.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. Brief list of stakeholders and target groups: Stakeholders: authorities institutionally involved in the Park’s activities (chapter 8.3.1), individuals, groups, associations listed in chapter 8.3.3. Target groups: a) foreign tourist and tourists coming from Regions not bordering on the Park; b) bordering tourist (coming from the municipalities, provinces and regions of the Park); c) people working in the tourist sector; d) National and foreign tourists; e) farmers and breeders (in the Park); f) hunters who reside in the Park and hunt in the adjoining areas Methods and communication strategies. With reference to the target group listed in point a) and b), of the uttermost importance is to provide correct and thorough information, in their language of choice. Exiting suggestions should also be provided and the enthusiasm and pride of the communicator are crucial. For target groups c) and d) contacts, apart from providing adequate information, communication should be very professional and interesting and offer new ideas. Being that category c) is part of the social community of the Park, the relationship with it should be very personalized and aimed at promoting involvement (see Forum). For farmers and breeders - cat. e) – communication should focus on the concept of the Park as a possible source of revenue and on the necessity of aiming at high quality standards. Great space should be given to their demands and complaints. It is better to avoid, with them, the issue of preservation. When dealing with hunters and dog lovers, keeping in mind that hunting and dog handling are forbidden in the Park, it’s necessary to focus on the recognition of their role and give them trust, without being permissive. Part of this group contributes to the selective control of Wild Boar and to the census of Ungulates, therefore it is paramount to secure their cooperation, also as direct or indirect surveillance against poaching.
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The other categories, institutional and local ones, are contacted in appropriated fashion, according to the role and importance of the institution itself. Perception of the tourist. This action, connected to the monitoring of the strategy, has been only marginally activated, due to the reasons expressed in the premises. In 2010 questionnaires were prepared, but their distribution and consequent analysis of the collected data will start in 2011. Instruments. For categories a), b) and d) mainly informative material. For group e) and f) mainly direct contacts. For group c) mixed instruments.
8.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis) Opportunities. Summer tourism growing, increase in the number of tourists coming also from abroad. Increased number of local events where the involvement of the Park is requested. Increase of school tourism, ideal target for the preparation and fruition of educational baths. Strengths. Enthusiasm and creativity of the great majority of Park’s guides and of the staff of the Environment Educational Centres and cooperatives. Challanges. Promote winter tourism (not necessarily connected to sport and skiing) and tourism in the shoulder season. Create stabile alliances with hunters, based on shared projects, also outside the boundaries of the Park, such as the creation of Adjoining Areas (see art.32, National Law 394/91). Persuade local administrations to perceive the Park as an ally, not as an adversary. This could be achieved by joining projects even when marginal to the Park’s mission, in order to create strategic alliances. Promote structural and functional connections among local special events (see problems), including in those the mission and vision of the Park; Discourage sport events or individual sports not in line with preservation. Expect from these a money contribution, in order to raise the understanding of the value of the Park. Train the employees to explain, spread and, if necessary, defend the mission and vision of the Park, using the same communication style
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Necessities. Increase the number of Info points and Visitor Centres (strategy highly dependent on financing). Improve specific training of the guides and increase their number. Improve the professional training of breeders. Improve competences and ethics of hunters (and dog-lovers). Problems (weaknesses, constrictions and threats). Lack / absence of signs at the main entrances of the Park. Signs and posters not emotionally involving. Lack of real entrances to the Park. Inadequacy of the perimeter of the Park (difficult to signpost and patrol). Lack of coordination and technical inadequacy in the initiatives of the various municipalities concerning the Park’s paths (every administration would like to have their own paths). Special events not connected by common projects, often repetitive if not in direct competition with each other.
8.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. Regarding the ECST (chapter 8.3.6) and PAS (chapter 3.1.2) (on top of PAA, chapter 3.1.3), it can be referred to the specific sections. The Project of Areas of Wildlife - Florist - Environmental Excellence and the Wildlife Areas Project have in common the following charecteristics: Objectives. Promotion of qualified economy and increased standards of environment sensitivity. Implemented essential activities. Specific planning. Target groups. Tourists (mainly outside the region and foreign), guides, local operators administrators (in order of priority). Direct and indirect beneficiaries. Residents, people that work in the local tourism sector. Results and impact (possible, desirable and expectable). External Improvement of the image of the Park. Credibility at national and international level. Increased importance and consequent increase of public financing. Internal
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Production of economic results and consequent change in positive of the perceived opinion by the locals on the utility of the Park. Creation of a greater sensitivity in the local residents towards environmental issues. Greater pride of the employees for working in a Park that enjoys high consideration and can express considerable competences.
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8.5 CONCLUSIONS
A. Identification of economic activities and economically sustainable products. It must be underlined that sustainability must be also environmental. Activities and products have already been identified in chapters 8.2.1 , 8.2.2 and 8.2.3., precisely: 1. The Project of Areas of Wildlife - Florist - Environmental Excellence ; 2. the Wildlife Areas Project . B. Methods and strategies for the coordinated management of policies and planning Policies and planning are described, briefly, in chapter 8.3. They can be listed as follow: 1. Wildlife projects (re-introductions, control, monitoring); 2. Responsible eco-tourism; 3. Surveillance on the quality of the territory; 4. Promotion of ecocompatible production activities (above chapter). As per methods and strategies, it’s necessary to follow the rules of concerted negotiation. That is: 0. Know very well your own necessity (objectives, quality and continuity of the relationships, and so on) and limits (institutional, economic …). 1. Do not negotiate from fixed positions. In the other side there are neither enemies nor adversaries, but people that wish to solve a problem. The objective is not to win or to agree, but to reach a good result in an amicable and efficient way; 2. Keep people separated from the problem (problems need to be faced, not people: soft with people, tough with the problem; concentrate on common interests, not on positions; devise advantageous solution for all parties, etc.); 3. Good communication (listen and understand, make ourselves understood, talk about us, not about other people…); 4. Insist on objective criteria (agreements based on objective criteria or on principles turn out to be amicable and efficient); Always adopt Good Negotiation practices (i.e. do not set out insurmountable limits; find a possible alternative to the agreement being negotiated; do not attach other positions, find out the reasons C. Methods and strategies to improve training dell'informazione, della formazione and awraness raising Methods and strategies were listed in Chapter 8.4.1, they briefly are: accept confrontation and promote participation;
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diversify communication strategies: talk about economy to the residents and to the administrators; talk about emotions to the tourists; make more clearly understood the mission and vision of the Park; include in any action an educational content; research new alliances, on top of the existing ones Priorities Regarding the objectives: Re-introductions and control of problematic species, surveillance on the quality of the territory, (Natura 2000 areas), implementation of ECST, wildlife Areas, areas of excellence, new professions. Regarding the solution of critical issues: cohesion between local administrations and the Park in order to join common projects; image of the Park; raising environmental awareness during sport activities and events.
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9. ESA report Greece
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9.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
9.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. There is a variety of European and Greek legislation regarding the establishment, protection and management of protected areas in Greece, including those located on mountainous areas. The first National Park in our country (Mt. Olympus) was founded in 1938 and the first National Park in Pindus mountain range (Mt. Pindus- Valia Calda) in 1966. The legislation regarding the establishment of protected areas is mainly related to the incorporation of European Directives, particular the two concerning the Protection of Birds ("Birds" 79/409/CEE) and the Habitats and Species ("Habitat" 92 / 43/CEE).
9.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. Pindus mountain range Pindus is the most extensive mountain range in the Greek peninsula. It extends from NW to SE between the Region of Epirus at west and the Regions of West Macedonia and Thessaly at the north and east. It is part of the geological arc that cross the Balkan Peninsula stretching from the Dinaric Alps to Greece and continues to the Taurus Mountains of Asia Minor. Pindus mountain range is a complex of high mountains, plateaus, valleys and gorges. In fact constitutes the watershed between the Ionian and Aegean Sea. More than half of the Greek rivers have their springs on the high altitudes of this mountain range. It exceeds 150 Km from north to south and 55 Km from east to west, covering a surface of about 9.000 Km2. Pindus mountain range is divided into three main sections: • Timfea (Northern Pindus) located on one side in Epirus and on the other side in Western Macedonia, • Athamaniki (Central Pindos), located on one side in Epirus and on the other side in Thessaly, • Dolopiki (Southern Pindos) located in Thessaly and Evritania. Pindus mountain range in the region of Epirus (Pindus- Epirus) The Region of Epirus participates in the Green Mountain project with the part of Pindus mountain range which belongs to the territory of the Region of Epirus and includes Northern Pindus (Municipalities of Konitsa, Zagori, Metsovo and Pogoni) and Central Pindos (Municipalities of Northern and Central Tzoumerka). For practical reasons, for now on the reference territory of the Region of Epirus which participates in the Green Mountain project will be called: “Pindus-Epirus”. Several protected areas with a great variety in size, category and ecological importance have been established in Pindus- Epirus the last decades (National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Beauty, Natural Monuments, Wildlife Refuges etc). However all these protected areas recently have been incorporated in three major units, corresponded in four extensive
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protected areas. Two of them have already been established (Northen Pindus National Park, Tzoumerka- Peristeri- Arachtos gorge National Park) and two of them are in process of being established (Mt. Grammos National Park, Eco-development Area of Pogoni- Konitsa).
Surface in Surface the Region Natura Category of the Protected Unit Name (Km2 in of Epirus 2000 Protected Area Status proximity) ((Km2 in sites proximity) Northern Pindus Northern National Park (Vikos- 2000 1500 established 13 Pindus Aoos gorge & Pindus) Tzoumerka- Central Peristeri- National Park 850 500 established 2 Pindus Arachtos gorge Grammos- Mt. Konitsa- National Park 1000 600 proposal 1 Grammos Pogoni Grammos- Eco-Development Konitsa- Konitsa- 300 300 proposal 1 Area Pogoni Pogoni
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The Region of Epirus. The project area (Pindus- Epirus) is defined by the black line
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The vegetation in Pindus- Epirus Evergreen schlerophyllous shrubs, with most common species the kermes oak (Quercus coccifera), the strawberry tree (Arburus unedo) and some other species of trees and shrubs, such as the holm oak (Quercus ilex), spread at the lower altitude zone (400 m-700 m). At the next altitude zone (700m – 800m) there are scrub areas, consisting mainly of oriental hornbeam (Carpinus orientalis), (Carpinus betulus), hop hornbeam (Ostrya carpinifolia) and quite often kermes oak. Further up the slopes covered with oak woods (800m-1000m), which consist mainly from several oak species (Quercus frainetto, Quercus pubescens, Quercus dalechampii, Quercus cerris and Quercus trojana). In the middle altitude zone (1000m-1600m) exist mixed and pure forests of black pine (Pinus nigra), fir (Abies borisii- regis) and beech (Fagus sylvatica). In Northern Pindus National Park and to a limited extent on Mt. Grammos the upper altitude zone (1600m-2000m) consists of a characteristic species of conifer, the Balkan pine (or Bosnian pine) (Pinus leucodermis or Pinus heldreichi). In the highest altitude zone (1800m/ 2000m till 2637m) extend alpine and subalpine meadows formed by a variety of herbaceous plants and some typical low thorny bushes. Spectacular cliffs and gorges, as the Aoos, Vikos, and Arachtos ones, characterize the steepness of Pindus- Epirus. On the banks of the rivers there are oriental plane (Platanus orientalis), black poplar and aspen (Populus nigra and P. tremula), several willow species (Salix sp.) and common alder (Alnus glutinosa). Pindus-Epirus hosts more than 2.000 plant taxa. The fauna of Pindus- Epirus The fauna of the National Park is very rich. About 50 mammal species, 180 bird species, 30 reptile species, 15 amphibian species and 25 fish species exist in the area. Among the large mammals, theer are rare species such us the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), wild boar (Sus scrofa), Balkan chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), brown bear (Ursus arctos), wolf (Canis lupus), wild cat (Felis sylvestris) etc. These mammals form significant populations in Greek even in European level. Regarding the birds, some of the rare species occurred in the area are: the Golden eagle (Aquilla chrysaetos), Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), Aegyptius vulture (Neophron percnopterus), Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) etc. Regarding reptiles we mention the presence of Marginate tortoise (Testudo marginata), from the amphibians the Alpine newt (Triturus alpestris) and from fish the endemic species of Aoos river (Oxynoemachelius pindus). a) Northern Pindus National Park The high mountains within the limits of the National Park are: Smolikas the second highest mountain in Greece (2637m.), Tymfi (2497m.), Vasilitsa (2249m.), Ligos (2177m.), Zigos (1820m ), and several other smaller in range and altitude such as Trapezitsa (2022m.), Tsouka Rossa (1987m.), Flambouro (1914m.), Mitsikeli (1810m) and Koukourountzos (1785m.). From the territory of the Northern Pindus National springs Aoos river and its largest tributary Voidomatis as well as those of the tributaries of Arahthos river: Vardas and Zagorikos. In the high altitude zone of the National Park exist small alpine lakes, called Dragonlakes, such as Drakolimni of Tymfi and Smolika and the lakes of Flegga. The total number of plant taxa recorded in the national Park is more than 1700 species, many of which are rare, endemic and protected (Viola albanica, Soldanella pindicola, Thlaspi
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tymphaeum. Ramonda serbica, Leptoplax emarginata, Bormellera tymphaea, Centaurea pawlowskii, Centaurea vlachoroum, Silene pindicola etc). Additionally, within the territory of the National Park exist a vast network of mountain villages consist by one hundred villages and two towns. The most important settlements of the National Park belong, are: Zagori, Konitsa, the area of Metsovo and the typical Vlach villages on the sub-alpine pastures. The settlements in the Northern Pindus National Park belong to 3 municipalities (Konitsa, Zagori, Metsovo). Ioannina, Metsovo and Konitsa are the largest urban centres with all the necessary administrative, health and educational infrastructures. The settlements are located at an altitude ranging from 400m (Kallithea) to 1450 m (Samarina). Over 70% of villages located at altitudes between 800 m - 1100 m, above 1100 m there are 6 settlements (Vradeto, Fourka Kapesovo, Skamneli, Milea and Pades). The local population lives in the area for several hundred years and each one has developed its own culture and habits. One of the most interesting characteristics of the territory is the local architecture and the anthropogenic environment. The main occupations of the local residents are logging, stock breeding , agriculture and tourism. b) Tzoumerka-Peristeri-Arachtos Gorge National Park The territory belongs mainly to the Region of Epirus. It covers an area of about 900 km2 and comprises 61 villages, and 2 municipalities (Northern and Central Tzoumerka). It includes two major mountain massifs: Mt Lakmos (or Mt Peristeri ) (2221m) and Mts Athamanika (or Tzoumerka) with highest peaks those of Kakarditsa (2429m) and Katafidi (2393m). In addition, it includes the half of the water basin of river Metsovitikos and the whole Arachtos gorge. c) Proposed Protected Area of Grammos- Pogoni- Konitsa The area includes Mount Grammos (2520m) in the north, the valley Sarantaporos and the plain of Konitsa in the center and the region of Pogoni and Mt Nemertsika (2200m) to the south. The whole area is in close proximity to the Greek-Albanian border. The total land area is approximately 1.400 km2. The largest part of that area contained in Epirus belongs to the Municipalities of Konitsa and Pogoni A recent Environmental Study proposes the establishment of a National Park in the northern part of the area (Mt. Grammos National Park line) and an Eco-development area in the southern part (Area of Pogoni-Konitsa).
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9.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. Each of the two existing protected areas (Northern Pindus National Park, Tzoumerka- Peristeri- Arachtos gorge National Park) and the two proposed protected areas in the Pindos Mountains (Grammos National Park and Eco-development Area of Pogoni-Konitsa) are divided into 4 distinct protection zones with different protection status where measures and rules are specified and varied accordingly, from the most strict zone number 1, where the most important parts of protected areas from ecological aspect are identified, to the looser zone number 4. The 4 distinct areas of each protected area are: Zone 1: Area of Protected Nature Zone 2: Area of Species and Habitats Conservation Zone 3: Main area of the Protected Area (National Park or Eco-Development Area) Zone 4: Peripheral zone Each one of the four established or proposed protected areas includes several additional micro sites with a different protected status regarding either nature or culture: (a) Northern Pindus National Park: 2 National Parks (according the former regime: Pindus- Valia Calda National Park & Vikos- Aoos National Park) 11 Wildlife Refuges 64 traditional settlemets Several Areas of Outstanding Beauty, Several historical, cultural and architectural monuments (mainly from Byzantine or post Byzantine period) 2 Special Protected Areas (SPA), 4 Important Bird Areas (IBA) 9 the Natura 2000 sites: 1 Geopark (Vikos Aoos Geopark) (b) Tzoumerka- Peristeri- Arachtos Gorge National Park : 1 Special Protected Area (SPA) 2 Sites of Community Interest (SCI), 2 Natura 2000 sites: 2 Important Bird Areas (IBA). 5 Wildlife Refuges 3 traditional settlements , 4 Areas of Outstanding Beauty
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Several historical, cultural and architectural monuments (mainly from Byzantine or post Byzantine period) c) The proposed Protected areas of Grammos- Pogoni- Konitsa 1 Special Protected Area (SPA) 1 Site of Community Interest (SCI), 2 Natura 2000 sites: 2 Important Bird Areas (IBA). 6 Wildlife Refuges 3 traditional settlements , 5 Areas of Outstanding Beauty Several historical, cultural and architectural monuments (mainly from Byzantine or post Byzantine period) 2 Archeological sites 1 Geopark (Vikos Aoos Geopark) Protected Area (SPA) 1 Site of Community Interest (SCI), 2 Natura 2000 sites: 2 Important Bird Areas (IBA). 6 Wildlife Refuges 3 traditional settlements , 5 Areas of Outstanding Beauty Several historical, cultural and architectural monuments (mainly from Byzantine or post Byzantine period) 2 Archeological sites 1 Geopark (Vikos Aoos Geopark)
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9.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). The creation of National Parks and other protected areas in Northern Pindos Mountains is part of a strategic plan for the protection and proper management of the entire mountain range of Pindos. The small and isolated protected areas that existed until the late 90's are gradually joined together and create large protected areas covering almost the entire mountain range of Pindus in the Region of Epirus (Pindus-Epirus). Thus, the establishment of the Northern Pindus National Park in 2005, was followed by the establishment of the Tzoumerka-Peristeri- Arachtos gorge National Park while the establishment of the Grammos National Park and the Region of Economic Development in Pogoni and Konitsa are underway. The National and European planning of protected areas for sustainable management include all the 13 sites of the Natura network of the Northern Pindos Mountains. The protection and management of the nearby protected areas is based on the continuous cooperation of all the responsible institutions, organisations and agencies.
9.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. Greece has not developed a national mountain policy despite the fact that mountain areas are a potential lever of growth for the country. Pindus- Epirus is a remote area, difficult to access, with low population density where the primary and secondary productions are not properly developed and gradually they are abandoned. However, Pindus- Epirus already constitutes an attractive tourism destination where job and profit opportunities arise, but uncontrolled tourism in some parts of the area leads to biodiversity, landscape and local architecture features degradation. A large part of Pindus- Epirus –including many settlements- is located within the limits of the existing or the potential protected areas. The main problem that comes up here is the high diversification of the status of the protected areas regarding legislation, administration (management body) personnel, funding etc. In some cases, a specific site with high ecological importance, is under a double (or even more), not well clarified protected status. Moreover, it has not been developed a liaison among the managing Bodies of the Protected areas, the local stakeholders and inhabitants. The inhabitants usually do not embrace the principles of sustainable development or a common vision for the protected area and do not contribute to the conservation of the environment, , on the contrary there are times that they put up a fight against the implementation of policies for the Protected areas. More specific the main problems and threats for this area are: Demography: the population decrease and aging, the percentage of productive population falls and augments the unproductive population Primary sector: agricultural land has been abandoned mostly during the period 1946- 1985. Fall of stock breeding and forest production characterize the area as well.
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Environment: traditional cultivations and construction methods (dry stones etc) that protect the soil erosion are abandoned. Erosion and deforestation are obvious in some locations. The high natural reforestation of the last 50 years has caused loss of biodiversity and decrease of populations of rare wild fauna. Some additional factors that affect negatively to the environment are: poaching, illegal fishing, climate change, inadequate environmental awareness among the local population, lack of an effective warden system of the protected areas, etc. Tourism: There is a lack of efficient integrated tourism management plan in Pindus- Epirus and successive connection among tourism and primary and secondary sector. Living costs for inhabitant: the inhabitants of the territory has to confront a high living cost concerning mainly constructions, heating, work-traveling, tax –including a recently high increase in tax- etc... Challenges and opportunities: Local products: High quality local and traditional products, bio – products, hand made products, handcrafts etc Innovations: New innovative method and productive processes, branding, marketing, advertisement through modern media Environmental friendly tourism : ecotourism Alternative tourism: a variety of possibilities e.g open air activities (trekking, rafting, canoeing, mountaineering), agro tourism, gastronomic tourism, interpretation tourism (nature and culture) etc Development of alternative energy sources Cooperation among the public, private sector and NGO´s. The creation of the Protected areas in Pindus- Epirus is an important opportunity for the social and economic development of the area. This can be achieved through the valorisation of environment resources, the promotion of local products, the support to local traditions and culture, the encouragement of responsible and sustainable tourism.
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9.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
9.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. In Pindus –Epirus livestock breeding is one the main activities that is practised both with extensive and intensive methods. The extensive livestock is divided into the permanent (fixed installations) and the transhumant one, which exists for centuries. The nomadic stock owners use the alpine pastures in summer and the low altitude sites for wintering. The extensive transhumant livestock breeding concerns mainly sheep and cattle. The intensive livestock breeding mainly affects poultry and pig farming and takes place mostly in a certain area of Tzoumerka-Peristeri- Arachtos gorge National Park. Because of the mountainous space and the small-sized agricultural property the agriculture is practiced on a limited scale in order to meet the individual needs of the inhabitants and not for commercial reasons. Hence, traditional methods continue to be used for the agricultural production, while the use of pesticides and fertilization is limited. The exception is the plain of Konitsa, where modern methods and tools are used for mass production. The forestry focuses on conifers and beech forests of the National Park of Northern Pindos and Mt Grammos. As regards the secondary sector of the region, apart from the commercial enterprises, there are also some wineries and small scale diary and wood plants. The tertiary sector focuses mainly on tourism, which become the main occupation of the inhabitants in certain areas. Pindus- Epirus due to the particular geomorphology of the landscape, the rich cultural heritage and the high biodiversity is ideal for developing all kinds of alternative tourism (mountaineering, hiking, kayaking, rafting, cultural tourism, etc.). The area has two Ski Centers (in Vasilitsa and Metsovo) and two Thermal Baths (in Amarantos and Kavasila).
9.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. The first step in the evaluation and assessment of the area was the implementation of three special Environmental Studies that led to the establishment of National Parks and integrated the already existed protected areas (Natura sites, areas of outstanding natural beauty, heritage settlements, etc.), while the institutionalization of the third area is pending. The main result of this enactment is the protection and the proper management, on the base of sustainable development as defined by the national and EU policy. As one of the most mountainous and disadvantaged areas of Greece, Pindus - Epirus participates in European Programs concerning the elimination of economic disparities of regional areas, as “Community Initiative Leader and Projects of Axis 3: Quality of Life in Rural Areas and
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Diversification of the Rural Economy and cross-border programs”. In addition, because of its proximity with other countriesthe region takes part in cross border projects such as the “Interreg- Cross-Border Territorial Co-operation” in order to become more competitive and innovative by the sharing and transferring of the know-how on regional policies. Such examples are the “Dry Stone Routes” and “Net Routes” projects in Zagori and “Wine Net” in Konitsa. Moreover, many studies have been realised concerning the development of the whole Region of Epirus. Some of them are: • Study for the Design of Specifications and Certification of Local Products in the Ioannina Prefecture • Study of Preparation of Construction Specifications and Certification for wooden barrels for Cheese and wine production •Recording Study of Local and Traditional Products of Ioannina • Study for the existing situation and Suggestions for improvement of free grazing breeding cattle Finally, on the initiative of local authorities and after long and elaborated scientific studies , a substantial part of the program area was recognised as a Geopark and it is a member of the European and Global Geopark Network under the auspices of UNESCO (Vikos-Aoos Geopark).
9.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. So far there has not been a specific policy on integrated management of the Pindus-Epirus, with the exception of individual programs and activities. For this reason it is necessary to implement an integrated sustainable development project of the Pindus-Epirus that will take into consideration the existing studies and the protection status of the National Parks and the other protected areas, where the emphasis is on conservation and management of the specific ecological values. However, the economic activities of local communities should not be ignored, but instead they should be integrated in the management plan, as they constitute a vital element of the life of the inhabitants. Thus, the plan of the integrated management of Pindus-Epirus, except for the conservation, should also include the following areas: Livestock: in particular to the extensive Αgriculture Production of local products of geographical indication Forestry Processing plants and methods Tourism: setting standards of tourist facilities (location, number, and other features), determination of carrying capacity on tourism, information and awareness ratings, a network of hiking trails and interpretive natural and cultural heritage.
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9.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. The main target groups and stakeholders of the area appear in the following table:
Region of Epirus
Municipality of Konitsa
Municipality of Zagori
Region
Municipality of Metsovo
Municipality of Voria Tzoumerka
PUBLIC Municipality of Kentrika Tzoumerka SECTOR
Forestry Service of the Regional Unit of Ioannina
Forestry Service of the Regional Unit of Arta
Ministry of Enviroment and climate change- Department of National Epirus
Fire Service of Epirus
Greek National Tourism Organization- Department of Epirus
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Management Body of Northen Pindus National Park
Management Body of Tzoumerka- Peristeri- Arachtos gorge National Park
Enviromental Education Center of Konitsa
Enviromental Education Center of Pramanda
Epirus SA- Development Agency of the Region of Epirus PRIVATE/ PUBLIC Region SECTOR Management Body of Vikos- Aoos Geopark
Union of Forestry Cooperatives of Konitsa- Metsovo- Zagori
Union of livestock keepers of Epirus
PRIVATE Region Union of enterprises on tourism in Zagori SECTOR
Union of enterprises on tourism in Konitsa
Union of enterprises on tourism in Metsovo
National Aktouros NGO
NGO
National WWF- Hellas NGO
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Local Pindos Perivalontiki NGO
National Greek Ornithological Society NGO
controled by the Hunting Assosiation of Epirus State Recreation/ Sport Associations No state control Mountaineering Club of Ioannina
Some complementary target groups and stakeholders are: Farmers associations and independent farmers Associations of stockbreeders and/or independent stock breeders Wine and Cheese processing plants Environmental and Cultural associations (NGOs) Enterprises that provide tourist services (Tourism agencies and alternative form of tourism) Property owners Owners/managers of hospitality and catering enterprises Managers of alpine refuges
9.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis) Problems/ Threats
The aging of the population in the areas of the national Parks combined with the abandonment of the area by young people. The inability to repair and maintain the cultural, religious and architectural monuments. Poaching and illegal fishing. The lack of architectural coherence of the building stock of the settlements. Poor grazing management policy. The non-rational management of solid waste and the lack of sewage treatment.
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The lack of fire prevention and care of forests. Strenghts A strong social identity and rich customs and traditions. The rich natural resources and the natural environment of incomparable beauty. The natural environment of great ecological value, important habitats and rare, endangered and protected species of flora and fauna. The 13 Natura 2000 sites, the two National Parks, and Vikos-Aoos Geopark. The high aesthetic values of the androgenic environment (architectural settlements, bridges, fountains). The richness of archeological sites and monuments (monasteries, churches). Opportunities The cooperation between cultural associations active in the area and the Municipalities on projects for promotion, valorisation and promotion of cultural and cultural heritage. The existence of exploitable renewable energy resources (water resources, forest resources, farm waste, etc.). The existence of infrastructure for environmental tourism (Center for Environmental Education in Asprageli). The completion of Via Egnatia which improved the accessibility to the area The large number of tourism infrastructure (accommodation) operating in the region. The participation of the municipalities into recycling programs and the adoption of good practices in managing waste. The use of human resources of people that have returned to live in Epirus and immigrants. The use of regional operational programs and other national and European projects for funding. Restraints The excessive and unregulated tourist development could affect the carrying capacity of the natural beauty of the area. The lack of a defined framework for the development of alternative forms of tourism. The lack of environmental awareness and education of citizens. The limited financial resources.
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9.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories Good practices from Pindus-Epirus which may serve to Green Mountain project areas concern the following topics: Environmental protection through the enactment of specific terms relating to the construction of new buildings and processing plants and crafts or light industry. Cultural heritage: the establishment and management of a large number of traditional settlements (over 60) to maintain a separate local architectural heritage. Maintenance and enhancement of archaeological sites and hundreds of individual buildings and monuments of historical and architectural significance. The creation of new buildings based on traditional architectural standards and traditional guesthouses for tourist use. Promoting individual and integrated production and processing of products related to wine, diary and wood-carving. A network of interpretive trails as a first attempt to apply the science of interpretation in natural and cultural heritage.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 9.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
9.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. The two existing protected areas of the Pindus-Epirus (Northern Pindus National Park and Tzoumerka-Peristeri-Arachtos gorge National Park) are run by 11-member boards (management bodies) designated by Ministerial order or Presidential Decree. The same model is also proposed for the remaining area of Pindus-Epirus (Mt Grammos National Park and Eco-Development Area of Pogoni-Konitsa). The Boards of Management Bodies have representative membership and usually consist of: The President appointed by the Minister of Environment, a qualified person with scientific knowledge and experience in the protection of natural environment. A representative of the Ministry of Environment, A representative of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food A representative of the Ministry of Development A representative of the relevant departments of the Region of Epirus Three representatives of the Municipalities of the protected Areas, A representative of the productive sector of the region, An expert on natural environment issues, A representative of a non-governmental environmental organization The exact composition of the Management Body is determined at the Presidential Decree (or Ministerial decision). At the Management Body 20 positions for scientific staff and 10 positions of administrative and technical staff are recommended. A position for a Director is also recommended. For the initial phase of the Management Agency it is estimated that the absolutely necessary number of staff is 11 people with the following object of work: A Director. A manager to monitor the parameters of the natural environment and the status of the protected area. A manager to monitor and coordinate the implementation of the Management Plan. An executive with main object the opinion on specific issues etc. Two executives for supervision / retention of the protected area. Two executives responsible for information / awareness and operation of information infrastructures.
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Two supervisors / guides for general tasks (patrolling, tour, contacts with local people in the field etc.) with additional competence and maintenance of infrastructure and equipment. Secretariat (1 secretary). At the present the Northern Pindus National Park has 15 employees. The same number of staff is being recruited by the management body of Tzoumerka-Peristeri-Arachtos gorge National Park. Also in the case of the proposed protected areas mt Grammos and Pogoni- Konitsa the same number of staff is proposed.
9.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). In general terms the objectives of protection include: The conservation of the natural environment which is unique in international, national and local level. The maintenance of elements and characteristics of anthropogenic environment that characterize the identity of the region. The enhancement of development at local level. The compliance with international commitments and policies regarding the protection of the natural environment. Briefly the above give impetus to the key goal of protection which is: The conservation of natural and human environment and the support of local development. The basic guidelines of national and EU policy concerning the protection of the natural and anthropogenic environment are: •Sustainable use of natural resources •Restructuring and urban planning of settlements • Implementation of physical planning and outside urban networks Generally, the rational management of an area should be based on evaluation of the real possibilities. It should also include the growing needs and expectations of the society for sustainable development. To ensure the maintenance of the special characteristics of the study area is required, along with the guiding principles for sustainable development the establishment of protection zones of the natural environment. The establishment of the protected areas for protection, promotion and compatible use of natural and human environment means that we must ensure: • the protection the natural environment, • the maintenance and enhancement of the traditional activities, • the organization and the control of the current activities in parallel with the promotion of alternative activities with less environmental cost,
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• the continuation and strengthening of the dynamic interdependence of natural and human environment, • the promotion and support of the anthropogenic environment features that characterize the area (architecture, economic activities, culture).
9.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. The Board of Management Body of the National Parks of Pindus-Epirus consists of representatives from various public organizations and agencies such as: the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Energy and Climate Change, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food and the Ministry of Development, the Region of Epirus and the local municipalities of the region as well as from an environmental NGO. These actors participate in the decision making process of the National Parks. The rest stakeholders usually are only recipients of these policies.
9.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. Apart from statutory agencies / organizations which participate in the Boards of protected areas of the Pindus-Epirus, there are other bodies of local interest as well as ordinary citizens affected by the policies of the protected areas, but they do not have active participation in the development of the Management Plan.
9.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis). Strong points: The Advisory Board which includes the main stakeholders interested on the management of the park, they contribute to the organisation and preserving of sensitive areas interested local communities involved in promoting of cultural and natural values The area comprises 13 sites of the network Natura 2000 Weak points: poorly informed and interested population environmental degradation and limited subsistence sources insufficient infrastructure insufficient environmental education
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Opportunities: Potential for ecotourism development The possibility for tourism (both form Greece and abroad) to contribute to local economy International promotion of the area as having a variety of special features (landscape, culture, vegetation, flora and fauna ) with many Natura 2000 sites The role of the protected areas in ecotourism promoting and management, through own activities and partnerships Threats: Uncontrolled buildings that does not respect the traditional architecture of the area and the natural environment Natural ressources exploitation (wood exploitation, poaching, etc.) Development of buildings outside the settlements. Necessities Redefine with scientific way the limits of wild life sanctuaries in the protected areas. Promote the economic development and financing influx Augment number of staff Need for surveillance staff and manual workers Improvement of relationships and cooperation between administrators/ authorities and locals
9.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. First of all, all the Natura sites and the Areas of Outstanding beauty should be under a common administrative authority such as the National Park. This will provide better coordination, cooperation and elaboration among the numerous stakeholders and target groups from the national to the local level. The first priority of the management plan should always be the protection and preservation of the distinctive biodiversity, the fauna and flora richness and furthermore rich culture of the area. These areas host populations for centuries, populations that have contributed to the flourishment and the maintenance of a vivid cultural heritage. Consequently, the primary objective should be the protection and conservation of the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Therefore, strict regulations concerning the proper management of the natural resources such as woods, pastures exploitation and hunting should be enacted. Another important aspect is the enhancement of the relationship between the NPs administrations and the local population and the promotion of the cooperation among the various stakeholders.
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Moreover, workshops and seminars should take place for the better training and education of the staff working in the National Parks. The promotion of a more systematic and advanced research for the protected areas can lead to the better understanding of the values and the potentials of the area. In order to achieve all these all the involved actors should work jointly and share a same vision.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 9.4 AWARENESS RAISING
9.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. The first target group should be the people working in the National Parks, first they should realise the importance of their values, vision and mission. In this way, they will improve their reliability and communication skills and they will be able to convey the right message to the visitors and the rest of the society. Regarding public awareness, the one target group is the local population and the schools and the other concerns the visitors- foreign tourists.Thus, environmental education is important in creating consciousness in young people especially students in the primary and secondary schools. The organisation of educational workshops and programs concerning environmental awareness for students can have great results. In this way the spirit of volunteering may be raised. Local young people may express the will to provide their help. A second tool for the development of environmental awareness is the organisation of conferences and meetings for the local population, the local authorities. For visitors and tourists in general, every kind of publication is important, from flyers to books and press releases. In addition, panels and audio visual means make easier the transfer of the useful information to visitors.
9.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. In order to build awareness on the importance of the natural and cultural assets of the protected areas there have been established two Environmental Education Centers, the first in the late nineties and the second one recently: 1. Konitsa Environmental Education Center (Northern Pindus National Park) It has been in operation for 15 years and provides Environmental education in three directions: a) primarily to secondary schools and students from entire Greece but mainly the Region of Epirus b) to teachers of primary and secondary schools and c) to local community Its action involves the organisation of workshops, seminars and conferences as well as the publication of books.
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2. Pramanta Environmental Education Center (Tzoumerka- Peristeri- Arachtos gorge National Park) Its purpose is similar to the Konitsa Environmental Center but has not yet many activities to show. In addition Five Environmental Information Centers have been established in Northern Pindus National Park: Aspraggeli Metsovo Vovousa Milia Mesovouni The purpose of their establishment is to provide environmental information for visitors and public awareness both for visitors and locals. In addition, they occasionally organise conferences for raising awareness of the local societies.
9.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. Brief list of stakeholders and target groups: Stakeholders: authorities involved in the Park’s activities at every level associations and groups of special interests natural and cultural individuals Target groups: Chlildren in schools Teaching staff Local communities Different categories of tourists Economic agents Communication strategies and tools: Elaboration of relevant material for educating the school children Organisation of workshops, short visits and trips for school children Organisation of meetings with public authorities and stakeholders Creation of thematic trails in the Parks and where possible use of the Hermeneutics Science Preparation of informative material to be given for free to visitors Press releases, interviews, conferences
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Preparation of questionnaires that will lead to the categorisation of target groups interested in the National Parks
9.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis) Opportunities. The increasing numbers of tourists visiting the area from Greece and abroad in the summer but also in the winter season. Promote connection between the local authorities and the administration of the National Parks for special events. Strengths. Cooperation with the EU and funding from the EU for management of natural and cultural environment and its promotion. The already established Environmental Education Centers and Environmental Information Centers in the existing National Parks. Challanges. The successful cooperation of the local authorities with the existing University, from which teachers and students can participate in the park’s initiatives. Necessities. Create Info points and increase the number of Visitor Centres in several parts of the National Parks. Train the employees to convey adequately the importance, the value and the mission of the Parks to all the interested parties. Problems (weaknesses, restraints and threats). Lack of actual interest for the Parks. Lack / absence of signs at the main entrances of the National Parks, as well as of informative panels. The territory included in the National parks is too big to be adequately patrolled.
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9.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. The Konitsa Environmental Education Center organises for the last ten years a specific project for high school students regarding the Northern Pindus National Park. The Environmental Information Centers has contributed significantly to the visitors’ information and awareness concerning the natural and cultural values of the Park. In addition, several European projects run by local authorities and NGOs have as their main target the protection and promotion of the natural and cultural environment through different actions and in combination with the effort of raising awareness. In conclusion, all the policy measures in regional level regarding the public awareness of the natural and cultural patrimony is considered a good practice following the ‘top- down’ model.
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9.5 CONCLUSIONS
The Region of Epirus and specifically the Protected Areas have a very special and individual character with alpine and sub-alpine, mountainous environment that give a thriving scene for active hiking tourism and generally ecotourism. The uniquely preserved settlements and small villages are ideal for potential regional tourism development. The two established National Parks and those to be established are ideal for recreation and tourism in the framework of sustainable development. The protection and conservation of the natural and anthropogenic landscape is the top priority and this apart from the legislation will only be achieved when the local communities realise their importance and consider them as their patrimony. Thus, education and public awareness are of crucial importance. An overall strategy for conservation with a comprehensive marketing plan would also be useful for the promotion of the area. In addition, the traditional methods of the local products production process together with other traditional crafts should be considered heritage and used for the general promotion of the area. The following are considered of equal importance: Prepare a comprehensive plan to protect and manage the environment in connection with economic development based on the principles of sustainability in Pindus-Epirus. Speed up the establishment of other protected areas in the Pindus-Epirus. Strengthen the function of the management structures of PA and staff them with competent and skilled personnel and equipment. Create a network of PA management at Pindus-Epirus. Further development of environmental awareness, education and awareness of local communities and visitors. More information / education centers and the creation of a network of interpretive paths are needed. Development of truly friendly relations between the management bodies of PA and the local community and local actors is also important. Clarification of the various protection schemes for individual Protected areas. Countervail to economically "affected" (individuals, institutions, regions) from the establishment and operation of the PA. Strengthen the productive forces of the area in key sectors (livestock, agriculture, forestry). Certification and promotion of local products. Determination of the bearing capacity of individual sites in relation to tourism. Develop infrastructure for alternative tourism (eg trail network) Select specific species of flora / fauna (Balkan chamois, brown bear, wolf, Golden eagle, otter etc) and their introduction as a flag-species for enhancing the positive perception of residents for the PA and active participation in conservation actions. Development of programs for protection / management / monitoring of selected species of flora / fauna / habitat. Implementation of environmental legislation and effective supervision and wardening of natural and cultural heritage.
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10. ESA report Ukraine
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10.1 PRESENTATION OF THE TERRITORY
10.1.1 Relevant legislations regarding management/protection/valorisation of natural and protected mountain areas. The basis of organization of environment management and rational use of natural resources is the Law of Ukraine “On preservation of natural environment” (1991). The Law contains 72 articles which are combined in XVI sections. This law not only proclaims but also foresees the system of guarantees of ecologic safety of a human, introduces certain ordering in the management system of environmental industry branch. It secures the right of the citizens of Ukraine for environment which is safe for life, participation in developing and holding the events for environment preservation, rational use of natural resources, associating to environmental NGOs, receiving of full and reliable information on the state of environment. The main principles of environment preservation are: a. priority of requirements of ecologic safety, obligation of complying with ecological standards, normatives and limits of use of natural resources in the course of economic, administrative and other activity; b. guarantee of ecologically safe environment for life and health of the people; c. preventive character of measures concerning environment preservation; d. greening of material production on the basis of complexity of solutions in the issues of environment preservation, use and reproduction of renewable natural resources, extensive introduction of modern technologies; e. preservation of spatial and specific variety and integrity of natural objects and complexes; f. scientifically justified coordination of ecologic, economic and social interests of the society on the basis of combination of interdisciplinary knowledge of ecologic, social, natural and technical sciences and forecasting of the state of environment; g. obligation of ecologic expertise; h. publicity and democratism in decision making, the implementation of which affects the state of environment, forming of ecologic outlook of the population; i. scientifically justified valuation of the impact of economic and other activity on the environment j. gratiousness of the general and payment for the special use of natural resources for economic activity;
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k. recovery of the fee for pollution of environment and deterioration of the quality of natural resources, compensation of the damage caused by violation of the legislation on environment protection; l. solving of the issues of environment protection and of use of natural resources with the consideration of the extent of anthropogenic changeability of the territories and common effect of the factors which adversely affect the ecologic situation; m. combination of the measures for stimulation and responsibility in the cause of environment protection; n. solving of the problems of environment protection on the basis of extensive interstate cooperation; Natural resources of Ukraine are the property of the people of Ukraine, who have the right of ownership, use and disposal of natural riches. Sovereignty of the people of Ukraine in the scope of environment preservation and use of natural resourses is implemented on the basis of the Constitution of Ukraine as directly via holding the referendums so through the public authorities according to the legisaltion of Ukraine. On 22nd May 2003 in Kiev, seven countries of the Carpathian region (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, Slovakia and Ukraine) signed convention on cooperation of the contracted parties for the protection and sustainable development of the Carpathian region with a goal to improve the quality of life, to strengthen local economies and communities and to protect natural values and cultural heritage.
10.1.2 General presentation of the territory in reference to the mountain area. Chernivtsi region (oblast) is a unique area where the historical destiny of Northern Bukovyna and a part of Bessarabia are united. It is situated on the crossing of the high roads of Central, Southern and Eastern Europe, in the south-west of Ukraine in the foothills of the Carpathians along the rivers Dniester and Prut. The region is one of the youngest in Ukraine, it has been created on the 7th of August, 1940, as a result of reunion of the northern part of Bukovyna and Khotyn county of Bessarabia. In the south and east a state border of 404,7 km runs, including that with Romania – 234,7 km, with the Republic of Moldova – 170 km. The region borders Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil, Khmelnytsky and Vinnitsya regions of Ukraine, holds an advantageous transport and geographical position, has a quite dense network of railways, highways, pipelines and power lines. Distance from Chernivtsi to Kyiv is 594 km by railways, 608 km by highways. Total area is 8,1 thousand sq. km, which is 1,3% of the total area of the country. According to the physical and geographical zoning of the territory the terrain of the region is rather complex. There are three zones in Chernivtsi region: mountain, foothill, forest-steppe. Mountain part – Bukovinian Carpathians – is situated in the utmost south-west of the region and occupies approximately ¼ of the territory. The mountains here are of middle height, from 500 m to 1600 m, with characteristic microclimate conditions. They are separated by
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narrow lowlands of Siret and Cheremosh. The tributaries of these rivers flow principally in parallel to the ridges in longitudinal lowlands. The mountains are covered in greenwoods and coniferous forests. The climate of the mountain and high-mountain part is characterized by lasting winter with a persistent snow cover and cool rainy summer.In the Carpathian region arable and perennial plants hold less than one percent in the structure of agricultural lands. Between the Carpathians and the Prut River a sloping piedmont plain with a dissected hilly terrain is situated. On the general more or less plain background a Khotyn ridge stands out with a height of 400-500 m above sea level which stretches out in a wide arc from Chernivtsi to Khotyn. Prykarpattya district in the western part by its climate features belongs to the zone of “optimal comfort” – climate is temperate without strong winds with a sufficient amount of sunny days of early spring and late autumn. In this area the healing mineral springs and muds are located. In the Prykarpattya the agricultural lands prevail, and in the composition of agricultural lands the grasslands and arable predominate. Mountain Carpathian district and the part of Prykarpattya are an extremely valuable area for all the Ukraine due to its natural terrain. In the north-east of the region along the Dniester River a plain area is situated. This is a wavy plain with a valley-girder terrain of erosive type. In Kelmentsi district there exist several elevations which emerged as a result of opening of ancient tertiary limestones. The valley of the Dniester has a width from 0,5 km to 2,0 km, and somewhere up to 6,0 km. Dniester valley terrains by their beauty, recreational and scientific and cognitive value present a highly rich museum of nature. Unique geologic attractions are concentrated here: single in Ukraine and Europe continuous strategic open-cast in the form of continuous exposure from Precambrian solids to middle Paleozoic which has been approved by the international symposium of 1968 as a standard of geological open-cast of Europe and the world; stratigraphic open-casts and exposures of the solids with numerous paleontologic plots; preserved ancient terrains in the from of fossil remains of the desert and ancient reefs, cliffs, pillars of weathering; in the exposures of the solids of Cambrian era, Silurian era, Devonian era and Anthropogen there are fossil remains of animals and plants (marine mussels, crayfish, scorpions, testaceous fish, jellyfish). In the forest-steppe zone the agricultural lands prevail, and in their composition arable predominates. In Prykarpattya agricultural lands are basically represented by meadows and grasslands, less by arable. Total area of agricultural lands is 470,6 thousand hectares, which composes 58,1%. Intensive development of agriculture, wavy terrain of the territory has resulted in significant erosion of the soils: from 92,3 thousand hectares in 1959 to more than 250 thousand hectares in the recent years. This is more than a half of all agricultural land of the region. More than 50% of the territory of Carpathian region is covered with woods: Putyla district – 68, Vyzhnytsya district – 58 and Storozhynets district – 47 percent, while forestation of Kelmentsi district is 9 and of Novoselytsya district – only about 5 percent. In general the forestation of the region is more than 31 percent.
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Carpathian forests are known for their high productivity. Average reserve of ripe and overripe stands per 1 hectare is 450 m3/hectare and more against the average indicator in Ukraine of 237 m3/hectare. In this regard the most intensive cutting is held here, up to 80 percent of timber of the region is harvested. The cutting is held on the basis of calculated cutting area, namely the lesser amount of wood is taken than is accreted, but this does not eliminate the threat for the Carpathians. In the course of wood harvesting a significant damage is inflicted to the nature – the pollution of mountain rivers and streams and the erosion of hillside soils occur. This is because the wood harvesting in the region is largely conducted by the way of clear cutting using tracked vehicles. Chernivtsi region is distincted by a temperate climate, transitive to moderate continental.
10.1.3 Sensitive and protected mountain areas. A serious attention is drawn today to the problems of the development of natural reserve cause, and this obligates to activate a nature preservation activity in this direction in order to enter a higher and more qualitative level of work. Because Bukovyna is one of the few regions of Ukraine where the natural conditions are really beneficial, intrinsic are the variety of landscapes, the considerable arrays of coniferous and broadleaf forests by which a third of the territory of the region is covered, the abundance of flora and fauna, water resourses (4th position in Ukraine by water availability), mineral springs etc. All this requires preservation and careful use for providing the material well-being of our citizens. According to the above, the development of reserve cause is one of the important priorities in the functioning of state administration. One of the main tasks of preservation of Bukovinian Carpathians and Peredkarpattya is a bequest of valuable natural objects, their taking under the state protection, preservation of unique territories and objects has a great practical significance for economic and social life of the region and district. In this regard the creation of the national natural park “Cheremosky” of the area of 7,1 thousand hectares on the territory of Putyla district has become very important. For the implementation of the plan of measures for preservation of Bukovyna subpopulation of European aurochs a decision has been taken to extend the territory of zoological wildlife sanctuary of local significance “Zubrovytsya” at the account of the lands of forest fund on the territory of Vyzhnytsya and Putyla districts which now amounts 27,1 thousand hectares. With a purpose of preservation of unique landscapes of Dniester canyon the national natural park “Khotynsky” has been created on the territory of Khotyn, Kelmentsi and Sokyryany distircts with an area of 9,4 thousand hectares. Creation of these objects is necessary for preservation of valuable species of flora and fauna, unique landscapes, geologic, hydrological objects etc. Along with this there will be an opportunity to reveal the environmental changes caused by a human, compare intact nature
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with a cultural landscape and ultimately develop a strategy of ecologically balanced nature use, and also to solve scientific, recreational, ecologic education and disciplinary problems. Currently there are 331 protected areas and objects in the region with a total area of more than 103 thousand hectares, which is 12,8% of the territory of the region, 25 of them have national significance, namely: national natural parks “Vyzhnytsky”, “Cheremosky” and “Khotynsky”, 10 wildlife sanctuaries, 9 natural monuments, 2 arboretums and Chernivtsi botanical garden; 306 objects have local significance, among them are: 2 regional landscape parks, 47 wildlife sanctuaries, 175 natural monuments, 4 arboretums, 40 parks-monuments of landscape art, 38 reserve tracts.
10.1.4 Relationship and cooperation with any adjacent mountain area(s)/protected/sensitive area(s). Given the border location of Bukovyna an opportunity of organization of cross-border reserve objects is being studied – bilateral interstate natural Ukrainian-Romanian reserve on the basis of regional landscape park “Cheremosky” (Chernivtsi region), adjacent landscape wildlife sanctuary “Chyvchyno-Hrynyavsky” (Ivano-Frankivsk region) and separate territories of national park “Rodna” (Romania).
10.1.5 Major problems, constraints and threats affecting the territory as well as challenges and opportunities. Today the structure and variety of the types of natural landscapes and plants groupings do not fully comply with the international standards. Excessive plowing of the lands, logging complicate the provision of territorial unity of the plots with natural landscapes. Some heads of power structures did not realize the fact that intensive economic activity leads to great burdening of the environment and accordingly to the change in landscapes, depletion of flora and fauna, and that it can be significantly prevented by the way of bequest and taking of these objects under the special protection of the state. For example, the reserve status of Hertsa district is only 0,4% of the territory, of Novoselytsya district – 1,3% of the territory. It is obvious that there are still many objects and territories in these districts which require being a reserve. With a purpose of improving the condition of objects and territories of the natural reserve fund it is necessary to ensure the appropriate order of use of natural resourses, strengthening the protection of wild animals and places of their stay within the natural reserve fund, complying with the requirements of visiting the territories and objects of mentioned fund, prevention of damaging forest plantations because of illegal cutting, taking measures for prevention of forest fires, ensuring the implementation of measures for prophylactics and protection of valuable natural complexes from the pest and diseases. While conducting the work for broadening the network of natural reserve fund, a necessity of solving the issues of increasing the welfare of the people is realized. In this regard it is
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necessary to fully but carefully use the distinctive reserve objects for development of tourism industry, recreation and recovery of the people as a ponderable source of economic growth of the population. The major problems affecting this natural protected area, as well as challenges and opportunities, are: 1. Uncontrolled tourism - at present the park has a high accessibility level, which may be a potential danger towards biodiversity, because of the existing risk of an unorganised and chaotic tourism development 2. The lack of a communication system and public awareness - the lack of the information centers, where local communities and tourists can be informed about the importance of this natural protected area 3. Uncontrolled buildings which don’t take into account the traditional aspect of the area 4. Poaching - the poor economical situation, the lack of public awareness systems and the standing need of resources can lead to a high level of poaching 5. The overgrazing is a major problem because of the loss in what concerns the biodiversity and the invasion of some plant species which aren’t consumed by animals, eg Nardus stricta, Rumex alpinus, Urtica dioica. 6. Cutting junipers for fire and for grasslands expansion 7. The fires - naturals or caused by humans, are one of the most important problems which affects the landscape. On the surface of the park there was a natural fire, in 2000, which affected 90 ha of forest from Domogled massif. 8. The existent hydrotechnical constructions affect directly the aquatic biodiversity of the area, but also the soil and the terrestrial ecosystems. 9. The low capacity of managing the protected areas from what concerns the features and equipments. 10. Illegal forest exploits.
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10.2 ECONOMIC SUSTAINABLE ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
10.2.1 Policy and priorities with regards to economic development and economic activities, formulated or implemented in the sensitive/protected mountain area. Chernivtsi regional state administration, state administration of environment preservation together with local executive authorities and local public authorities, other organizations for nature preservation conduct a corresponding work for formation of ecological network. A coordinating council on the issues of formation of national ecological network of the region is working. The requirements of all-state program of formation of national ecological network of Ukraine by 2015 are brought to the direct executants. The current issue has been discussed at the extended meeting of the board of the state administration of environment preservation with the participation of the representatives of district state administrations, district councils and regional administrations of forestry and agriculture. At the meetings of of the coordinating council the following issues were considered: “On main directions of implementation of the All-state program of formation of national ecological network of Ukraine in Chernivtsi region” and “On creation of working group for justification of recommended territories and objects for bequest”.
10.2.2 The existing initiatives/methods/actions/projects currently/already implemented and aimed at valorising local activities and/or products. Problematic issues of formation of ecological network in Bukovyna are permanently reviewed at the seminars which take place on the basis of ecologic educational center of national nature park “Vyzhnytsky” and international scientific and practical conferences on the basis of Yuri Fedkovych Chernivtsi national university, regularly highlighted in theTV and radio programs under the rubrics “Nature and us”, “Answering your questions”, “From the healing springs” etc. On the pages of local press the articles on the given topic are published. Information and reference illustrated magazines “Green belt of Chernivtsi” and “Bukovyna for everyone” were issued, posters “Flora and fauna of Carpathian region” were issued within the frames of the project “Popularization of The Red Book”. Taking into consideration the border location of Bukovyna an opportunity of organization of cross-border reserve objects is being studied – bilateral interstate natural Ukrainian- Romanian reserve on the basis of regional landscape park “Cheremosky” (Chernivtsi region), adjacent landscape wildlife sanctuary “Chyvchyno-Hrynyavsky” (Ivano-Frankivsk region) and separate territories of national park “Rodna” (Romania). The purposeful practical work for creation of the regional cadastral database of flora and fauna is not being done because of the lack of corresponding instructions and funding. It is being done at the level of separate scientific developments in the higher educational establishments of the region. The development of natural reserve fund, formation of ecological network of the region are the foreground directions of the work of state administration of environment preservation in Chernivtsi region.
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In the scope of preservation, use and reproduction of natural reserve fund during 2010 65 revisions of the territories and objects of natural reserve fund of the region concerning the compliance with the requirements of the Law of Ukraine “On natural reserve fund”, Forest and Land codes of Ukraine have been held.
10.2.3 New and innovative initiatives with concrete possibilities to be introduced to strengthen the mountain economy while preserving/valorising the natural area. National nature park “Vyzhnytsky” has been created with a purpose of preservation, reproduction and rational use of natural landscapes of Bukovinian Carpathians with the unique historical and cultural complexes. By area it is the smallest of national nature parks of Ukrainain Carpathians, but with its emerging a rather orderly nerwork of reserve territories which represent all height-belt structures of mountain country has been formed. Unlike other national parks of the region, where moderate- and partly high-mountain landscapes and vegetation prevail, “Vyzhnytsky” incarnates the low-mountain part of the Carpathians with a quite mild climate and predominance of thermofilic species in the forests – beech and fir. A territory where the national park is located has long since and traditionally been the center of Bukovinian tourism. It has been crossed by the popular touristic routes. Nowadays the trails of the routes of active hiking are restored here, ecologic cognitive trails are laid, green tourism is introduced, ecological educational center in Berehomet town and museum of nature in Zeleniv village are functioning. Touristic base “Cheremosh”, “Nimych” shelter, small pensions are serving the tourists. One- and two-day ecologic routes are offered for park visitors. The most popular among them are the routes “Stone ring of the park”, “By the strand of Voloty”, “Bozna”. Innovative activity of national parks is conducted in the following directions: • inventory of the objects of flora and fauna and also of all natural complexes and separate natural objects on its territory; • research and analysis of the dynamics of change of natural complexes and objects, ecosystems and climate; • studying of natural complexes, objects and their changes in the conditions of recreational use, developing and providing the scientific recommendations on the issues of reducing the impact of recreational activity on natural complexes and objects of the Parks; • creation of scientific basis of preservation, reproduction and use of biodiversity and also of especially valuable natural complexes and objects, separate species of flora and fauna, renovation of disturbed ecosystems, management and effective use of natural resourses of the Parks and providing the corresponding recommendations; • preparing and providing scientific materials and recommendations necessary for implementation of economic, environmental, recreational and ecologic education activities of the Parks;
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• studying of intersystem connections, structures and regularities of the functioning of natural complexes; • holding of complex scientific researches on the issues of preservation of the unique and typical flora and fauna of the Parks; • research and development of environmental measures and recommendations for improving the condition of the preservation of natural complexes, rare and endangered species of flora and fauna within the territories of wildlife sanctuaries, natural monuments, reserve tracts, other territories and objects of nature reserve fund and territories located in the region which are perspective for bequest.
10.2.4 Target groups and stakeholders that should be involved in the framework of new policies and approaches for economic sustainable activities and products. 1. National Parks. On the territory of mountain districts of Chernivtsi region there are located two national parks which are environmental, recreational, culture and education, scientific and research establishments of nationwide significance which are created with a purpose of preservation, reproduction and effective use of natural complexes and objects which have special environmental, sanitary, historical and cultural, scientific, educational and aesthetic value. 2. Local executive authorities of the mountain districts of the region, i.e. district state administrations, which implement the executive authority on the territory of the district within their powers and implement the powers delegated by corresponding district councils. In particular, to the jurisdiction of district state administrations in the limits and forms determined by the Constitution and the Laws of Ukraine belongs solving of the issues of socio- economic development of the territory and use of the land, natural resources, environment preservation. 3. Population represented by local authorities. The population of the mountain districts as well as of the other regions of Ukraine, united in territorial communities (of villages, towns, cities, districts) by common interests of the own livelihood, independent solving of the issues of local significance as directly so via the local authorities within the law. Since it is impossible to cover all the population, it is planned to involve the heads and other staff of the village, town, city and district councils who will directly contact their own territorial communities. 4. Regional branch executive authorities. The main purpose of the functioning of regional branch executive authorities is ensuring of the sustainable development of subordinate scope of responsibility. 5. Branch NGOs. Branch NGOs (first of all those wich work in the scope of ecology and tourism) are created and act with the purpose of satisfaction and protection of legal social and economic and other common interests of the citizens, and also with the purpose of realization of public interests and
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introduction of the principles of self-regulation in the scope, branch or activity sector determined by the statute, which is why they perform an important function from a point of view of civil society. 6. Scientific organizations. The development of science is the determinative factor of the development of the territories and increase of the welfare of its territorial communities. 7. SMEs and state enterprises in such sectors as recreation, agriculture, tourism, forestry since they are the driving force of economic development in the territory. 8. Branch associations perform the function of accumulation of leading branch experience and have the access to the branch information, and also serve as a coordinating body of the enterprises for stable development of the branch.
10.2.5 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to economic sustainable activities and products (SWOT analysis) Strengths: Weaknesses: - The presence of significant quantities of - Lack of land; mineral raw materials, including alternative - The practical absence of domestic energy for Ukraine; resources. - The highest amount of forest resources in Ukraine; - High recreational potential of the region; - One of the highest in Ukraine and various reserves of mineral sources; - High hydropower potential; - The presence of different landscapes and climatic zones; - Rich flora and fauna, including presence of unique species listed in UNESCO protection programs. Oportunities: Threats: - Increasing of use of mineral resource base - Instability of the legislation and regulatory of the region, engage in the production of framework, particularly in terms of licensing new mineral deposits; the use of mineral resources; - The use of water resources for energy - Overuse and depletion of natural resources; purposes; - Overuse and disturbance regeneration of - Improve of the coordination, management forest resources; and regeneration of forest resources; - Destruction of natural resources due to the - Formation of effective land use areas; occurrence of natural disasters; - Investment in mineral exploration; - Lack of control over the use of natural - The use of natural resources in the resources (unauthorized deforestation, use development of recreation and tourism. of quarries, hunting, fishing).
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10.2.6 Local, national and European interesting initiative/practice, in reference to the introduction/valorisation of economic sustainable activities/products that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in project partner territories
The territory where the national parks are situated has long since and traditionally been the center of Bukovinian tourism. It has been crossed by the popular touristic routes. Nowadays the trails of the routes of active hiking are restored here, ecologic cognitive trails are laid, green tourism is introduced, ecological educational center in Berehomet town and museum of nature in Zeleniv village are functioning. Touristic base “Cheremosh”, “Nimych” shelter, small pensions are serving the tourists. One- and two-day ecologic routes are offered for park visitors. The most popular among them are the routes “Stone ring of the park”, “By the strand of Voloty”, “Bozna”.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR COORDINATED MANAGEMENT 10.3 POLICIES AND PLANS
10.3.1 General presentation of natural assets and protected mountain areas management at local/regional level. Typical organizational structure of the National Natural Park in Bukovina: - Director: - Deputy Director on science: . Department of Economic Education; . Department of Science; - Deputy Director – chief naturalist: . Department of State protection and preservation of natural systems . Department of wildlife protection . Environmental R & D facilities - Department of Accounting - Senior Lawyer - Senior HR expert on - Department of Recreation and beautification - Department of Logistics - Lead engineer on occupational safety - Commercial Division
Regional State Department of Environmental Protection (Administration) within its authority is realizing the state policy in the area of environmental protection, rational use and reproduction of natural resources, environmental and within its competence radiation safety in the region. The main objectives of Administration are: - Implementation of national environmental policies to ensure effective use and reproduction of natural resources (land, mineral resources, surface and ground water, air, forests and other flora and fauna), environmental protection and ecological and radiation safety; - The management and regulation of environmental protection, rational use and reproduction of natural resources, environmental and within its competence radiation safety in waste management; - State control over compliance within environmental legislation by enterprises, institutions and organizations regardless of their ownership, and citizens of Ukraine and stateless persons, foreign legal entities and individuals in the
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territory, compliance with environmental requirements on checkpoints across the border and in the area of customs; - Informing the public through the media about the conditions of the environment in the territory, prompt notification of environmental emergencies and the implementation of actions to eliminate them.
Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Ukraine is the central executive authority and is directed by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. Ministry is the main authority in the system of central executive authorities in the formulation and implementation of state policy in the field of: - environmental protection; - environmental and, within its competence, biological, genetic and radiation safety; - waste, pesticides and agrochemicals management; - management, restoration and protection of natural resources (mineral resources, surface and ground waters, inland maritime waters and the territorial sea, air, forests, wildlife (including aquatic resources, hunting and non-hunting species) and fauna and natural resources of the territorial waters, continental shelf and (maritime) economic zone of Ukraine (natural resources); - restoration and land protection; - conservation, restoration and sustainable use of biological and landscape diversity; - formation, preservation and use of ecological network; - organization, protection and use of protected areas; - preservation of the ozone layer, regulation of negative anthropogenic impact on climate change and adaptation to its changes and implementation within the competence of the requirements of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol; - the development of water sector and land reclamation, geological study and rational use of mineral resources; - state supervision (control) over compliance within legislation on environmental protection, rational use, restoration and conservation of natural resources
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10.3.2 Description of Protected Areas Management Plan (priorities, vision, management objectives, expected results, existing and potential opportunities and problems). Regional State Department of Environmental Protection ensures the implementation of state of environmental protection, rational use, restoration and protection of natural resources in accordance to the Law of Ukraine "On the National Environmental Policy Strategy". Strategic regional measures in the field of ecology according to the comprehensive program of environmental protection and rational use of natural resources "Ecology" in Chernivtsi region on 2011 - 2015 years, approved by Chernivtsi Oblast Council, are: - The continuation of the construction and reconstruction of sewage treatment plants and sewage communications in Chernivtsi and in the districts’ centers of the region: Vyzhnytsya, Hlyboka, Kitsman, Novoselytsya, Sokyriany and Berehomet township in Vyzhnytsya district; - ordering of waste dumps in accordance with environmental legislation, implementation of resource saving and wasteless enterprises, introduction of waste’s using as secondary raw materials; - increasing of territories of the protected areas in the region, including the studies on creation of national parks "Mountain forests of Bukovyna" and "Storozhinetskyi"; - implementation of environmentally-friendly technologies for logging jobs in the forests of the Carpathian region, including cable-air units and wheeled tractors during the felling trees process; - Prevent unauthorized use of natural resources and unorganized placement of industrial and household waste; - Increase the share of environmental information and social environmental announcements in media; - Implementation together with Tax Administration of the requirements of section 8 "Environmental Tax" of the Tax Code of Ukraine; - Ensuring the functioning of the state system of environmental monitoring; - Development, implementation and control of state and local environmental programs etc.
10.3.3 Level and extension of cooperation/coordination among local actors both in the setting up of the Management Plan/policy and in the management of sensitive and protected areas. A Public council has been created at the state administration of environment preservation in Chernivtsi region. The participants of the Public council are the registered in the main justice administration environmental NGOs of regional level, and also the registered in the districts organizations of regional level without regional (oblast) submission, representative of state administration (person authorized by a head of state administration).
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Within the competence of the Public council are the consideration of the issues which are introduced independently by the participants or by interested structural subdivisions of state administration and approval of the documents (decrees, statements, decisions framed by the reports, letters or information references etc.). These documents are transferred to the appropriate local authorities and NGOs for competent response, and also to the mass media. Main activities: 1. Submission of generalized requests and proposals from the Public council to the state administration and other executive and local authorities on the issues which are the most important from the view of ecologic NGOs concerning environment preservation. 2. Common discussion with the executive and local authorities of the issues of implementation of state ecological policy and involvement of the public in the execution of implemented environmental measures in the region, ensuring of compliance with the requirements of environmental legislation. 3. Assisting in bringing to the public (through the ecologic NGOs) of the information concerning the decisions and actions of the state administration and other state administrative departments and environmental organizations. 4. Participation in creation of Public ecologic reception desks in the districts and Chernivtsi city and assisting their work. 5. Organization of common environmental events, operations, actions, raid-checks, months of sanitary cleaning and greening of localities, holding of conferences, seminars and meetings with the managing staff of ecologic NGOs.
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10.3.4 Level and extension of involvement of the public in the setting up the Management Plans. The participants of the Public council are the registered in the main justice administration environmental NGOs of regional level, and also the registered in the districts organizations of regional level without regional (oblast) submission, representative of state administration (person authorized by a head of state administration). Public organization of regional-oblast and regional level has one representative in the Public council. The powers of the representatives are justified by the documents of the organization. The candidacy for the board of the Public council is submitted and withdrawn by the administrative body of the NGO. The Public council is opened for accession of existing or newly created NGOs. The accession of NGOs is proceeded by the submission of the official letter from the organization on entering the Public council.
10.3.5 The opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints, threats) in relation to territorial coordination and coordinated management policies and plans (SWOT analysis).
Strengths: Weaknesses: - The presence of a professional team - Weak requisites of national parks; consisting of personnel of national parks; - The practical absence of domestic energy - Active support from the national and resources; regional authorities; - Low level of environmental awareness of - The presence of a strong scientific base citizens edge (Chernivtsi National University named after Yuriy Fedkovych)
Oportunities: Threats: - Promotion of ecotourism; - Overuse and depletion of natural resources; - Attracting of foreign tourists; - Overuse and disturbance regeneration of - Deepening of the ties with neighboring forest resources; national parks in Ukraine and neighboring - Destruction of natural resources due to the countries occurrence of natural disasters; - Lack of control over the use of natural resources (unauthorized deforestation, use of quarries, hunting, fishing).
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10.3.6 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to the setting up of Management Plans/policy and/or the management of sensitive/protected areas that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised. The realization of the project "Formation of a pilot cross-border timber wood cluster based on cooperation of the Carpathian and Alpine conventions in the Danube basin" is as an example of good practice. The main objective was to create the a new system and infrastructure basis for the development of forest-timber industry of Bukovyna using the cluster innovative approach based on the cooperation of the Carpathian-Alpine regions and countries in the Danube Basin for improving of the environment and man-caused environmental safety, innovation and investment attractiveness and competitiveness in the context of the needs of sustainable regional development and successive approximation to EU standards.
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METHODS AND STRATEGIES FOR INFORMATION, TRAINING AND 10.4 AWARENESS RAISING
10.4.1 Information, training and awareness raising objectives, priorities, strategies, methods and activities with the aim to build awareness on the importance of the natural assets and products of the territory, to enhance the territorial identity of natural/protected mountain areas, to promote territorial protection/development and to generate political, economic and public interest and action, etc. Ecological and environmental education activities and propaganda are among the most important tasks of national parks. Its realization is mainly ensured by the functioning of environmental education centers (EEC) as a structural unit of the national park. EEC include a number of internal and external exposures, the main of which is the "Ecological path" Seasons ", equipped with modern specifications and configuration of the observation route according to the logic of environmental education. Educational activities at the above mentioned exposition is realized through eco-tours designed for different age groups. Another object of eco-educational center is a lecture-demonstration hall, where through various methods of communication (lectures, roundtables, workshops, discussions, celebration of environmental dates, etc.) is introduced as the basis of basic theoretical and conceptual environmental and educational activities. Another environmental educational subdivision of the park is the Museum of Nature (Zeleniv village) with a unique collection of fauna of Bukovyna and environmental education class. The lessons dedicated to nature topics are conducted systematically. It is planned that national parks will initiate the implementation of new environmental education in the Chernivtsi region in accordance to the development of appropriate educational programs and maximum utilization of material resources and potential of the parks.
10.4.2 Public and private authorities and bodies involved in information, training and awareness raising activities. 1. Administration of national parks of mountain districts. 2. District state administrations of mountain districts. 3. Representatives of district, city, town and village councils of mountain territories of the region. 4. Regional branch executive authorities in the scope of environment preservation, water resourses, forest resourses and woodworking, agriculture, tourism, territories development, interregional and international cooperation. 6. NGOs which function in the scope of rational nature use, ecology, tourism and entrepreneurship development. 7. Scientific organizations and higher educational establishments.
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8. SMEs and state enterprises in such sectors as recreation, agriculture, tourism (including the owners of private homesteads), forestry. 9. Branch associations including the representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chernivtsi region. All mentioned organizations are information mediums and as a rule have their own network of information dissemination. It is expected that the representatives of the executive authorities and local communities, and also of the NGOs will assist in the dissemination of the new information and new experience among the stakeholders who are first of all the population and representatives of the enterprises, which will facilitate the sustainable development of mountain territories.
10.4.3 Target groups and stakeholders to which information, training and awareness raising activities are targeted. Methods and strategies and tools used in the framework of information, training and awareness raising activities and types of activities implemented for each target group. First and foremost these are: - staff of national parks; - representatives of regional and local executive authorities; - population; - high school pupils and students; - staff of profile enterprises; - owners of private homesteads; - representatives of NGOs; - tourists. The main methods will be the preparation of information materials, preparation and holding of information sessions, trainings, introductory visits, organization of public hearings with representatives of different stakeholders, interviews, press-conferences, working with mass media.
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10.4.4 Opportunities, strengths, challenges and needs as well as the problems (weaknesses, constraints and threats) concerning information, training and awareness raising. (SWOT analysis) Strengths: Weaknesses: - Active support from the national and - Weak infrastructure of national parks; regional authorities; - Low level of environmental awareness of - Interest from schools; citizens edge - Interest from owners of private estates
Opportunities: Threats: - Promotion of ecotourism; - Overuse and depletion of natural resources; - Deepening ties with neighboring national - Overuse and disturbance regeneration of parks in Ukraine and neighboring countries forest resources; - Destruction of natural resources due to the occurrence of natural disasters.
10.4.5 Interesting initiatives and practices in reference to information, training and awareness raising activities or methods that can be used as a Good Practice and be capitalised in the partner territories. Functioning of environmental education centers (EEC) as a structural unit of the national park can be the example of the Good Practice. Details of the EEC are described in 5.1. Primary target groups are pupils and students as well as tourists as the secondary target group. The main beneficiaries of such activity is population of the mountain regions because educated locals and tourist are causing the less harm to the environmental.
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10.5 CONCLUSIONS
The environment is not the only natural habitat of human, but also natural capital, which gives a person a lot of resources and services. Human civilization is moving from the era in which the limiting factor of capital was created by human, the era in which this factor becomes scarce natural capital. Logic effective administrative action under such conditions requires a maximum productivity of natural capital and ongoing investment in increasing capacity of its revolving parts. The core of renewable natural capital of any nation is its nature reserve fund. The major problem is a lack of coordination and inadequate legislation - land, forest, environmental and legislation on local self-government - in terms of protected areas, which requires appropriate amendments to existing legislation and developing new legislation. It is necessary to resolve conflicts between different laws concerning protected areas (Forest and Land Code of Ukraine, the Law of Ukraine "On the Nature Reserve Fund of Ukraine", Law of Ukraine "On licensing of Economic Activity", etc.) legally prioritize conservation natural areas over other types of use. System Protection State of protected areas in Ukraine does not meet modern requirements and international standards. Low professional qualification of the workers, public health, limited their rights and legal insecurity, lack of personal protective equipment and logistics make it impossible to fully ensure the protection of natural systems. Due to the low level of financial and logistical worsens the already poor state of institutions NRF, funded at 35% of the actual needs. Not provided adequate funding for environmental protection, scientific research, environmental education, recreational activities, virtually no funds for capital expenditures. Lack of transport, communications, equipment, office and laboratory space, recreational infrastructure, museums, nature centers and information make it impossible to preserve the unique natural complexes and objects. Under these conditions, the main attention should be paid to the following strategic directions: - To create a legal and institutional framework for the implementation of sustainable development strategies and management model "eco-social market economy" and the integration of their principles in sectoral policies, particularly in the protected work; - To amend and supplement the existing legislation and regulatory framework, to develop and adopt new legislation in the context of modern market economy and globalization; - Rebuild and develop a programmatic approach to the management of natural protected areas and immediately take the necessary government programs; - Provide adequate institutional development reserve affairs in the executive branch; - Increase the number of staff through training and involvement of professionals with current thinking and knowledge;
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- Increase the financial and logistical support of protected areas at national and local levels; - Take effective measures for strengthening environmental education and education of the citizens and officials of state and local governments.
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