Description
The Pohorje mountains are part of the Natura 2000 ecological network due to their natural features. However, nature in Pohorje is in poor state due to a number of factors, especially due to the development of tourism and recreation. Several bird species, some amphibians and butterflies are decreasing in number. The objective of the SUPORT project is to provide solutions for sustainable development of the Pohorje area which will enable improvement of the state of sites of high nature conservation value and at the same time the existence of leisure activities in nature. The project will ensure adequate management of 4 habitat types and adequate habitats for 5 animal species by implementing protective measures in the field. We will obtain data on 5 species whose conservation status is unknown and increase the number of stakeholders accepting the implementation of the Natura 2000 Management Programme. Guidelines will be included in sectoral plans and two models of sustainable management will be developed, both in cooperation with stakeholders (local communities, organisations, associations, individuals and others) and Donor States.
Summary of project results
Project SUPORT was needed as continuation of already implemented actions (projects NETREG, WETMAN, ALPA) dealing with sustainable management of Pohorje. Therefore Suport enables that the model of multifunctional management will become part of planning process as well as management tool for relevant stakeholders. The overall objective of the project is efficient management and monitoring of Natura 2000 areas.Specific objectives of the project are: improve the condition of wetlands, grassland habitats and protective forests within the project area; obtain information on the status and distribution of the 5 unknown species of birds on Pohorje; increase the surface of target habitat types and habitats of target species by appropriate management; balance the interests of different stakeholders in the project area; establish a model of multifunctional management in areas of high biotope value; integrate conservation policies in sectors strategic documents. The nutritional base in the project area was increased, systems to monitor selected species populations as well as environmental impact of tourist and recreational activities were established. With controlled traffic regime a model of planned management and guidance of visitors was established as well. Transfer of the experiences and new knowledge to local stakeholders and awareness / familiarity with the importance of governance has increased among the local population, through monitoring experts gain new knowledge about endangered species and the management of vulnerable biotope. Project had strong pedagogical effect on school youth which was included in projects activities. Outputs are the following: concrete measures to improve the habitat of endangered species and habitat types were implemented; new technical knowledge/skills were acquired to enable targeted management in vulnerable environments; awareness of forest owners and local communities about the importance of space and their specific management was raised. Stakeholders were involved through joint actions in the field; e.g workshops … Beneficiaries were involved in concrete activities as well; e.g. they draw thematic maps... Exchange of experience with the donor partner of Norway was achieved. A different approach to the management of protected areas was presented to our experts, emphasis was put on environmental protection which is not just a matter of state institutions but is incorporated in communities as well.
Summary of bilateral results