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To integrate conservation into
local sustainable development. |
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The Carpathian Large Carnivore Project (CLCP) has developed a comprehensive conservation programme for large carnivores in Romania. The project started in 1993, and is scheduled until the end of 2003. Our intention is to integrate all environmental, economic, and social factors relevant for the large carnivore-human relationship into management and land-use planning.
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The overall goal of the programme is to establish a community-based conservation of large carnivores, and their habitat in a model region in the southern Carpathians through an integrated management approach.
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 Research
The research component provides the basis for wildlife management decisions and serves as an attraction for media and eco-tourism. Research objectives are:
- to generate knowledge about basic ecological parameters;
- to document the threats for large carnivore species;
- to understand the relationship between human and wildlife interests;.
Management and Conservation
This component helps in the implementation of conservation methods. We:
- lobby for and assist in the development of large carnivore management plans;
- assist in advanced wildlife monitoring systems;
- implement advanced livestock protection methods, such as electric fences, to reduce carnivore-livestock conflicts.
Rural Development
In this field we develop the necessary economic instruments to support conservation: An eco-tourism programme based on local services creates revenues for the local population through the existence of large carnivores. We have trained guides and assisted in the set-up of guesthouses, transport services, and leisure activities.
Donations from eco-tourists have enabled us to set up a Community Development and Conservation Fund.
Public Awareness
Numerous national and international media reports have made the area and our approach well known. Locally, we run extensive education programmes for schools and universities, and provide information for specific interest groups about large carnivores and methods for successful management.
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