Carpathian biosphere reserve (Ukraine): Towards participatory management

Abstract

The Carpathian Biosphere Reserve (CBR) in Ukrainian Transcarpathia, formally recognized by UNESCO in 1992, is one of the most important protected areas in Europe. In 2007, the beech forests of Uholka were included into the UNESCO World Heritage Site Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians because of their uniqueness. In the course of the reserve's spatial development and the potential integration of populated areas, participatory management arises as a crucial challenge. A first study of local stakeholders (private and state forestry enterprises, local communities), their attitudes and potential conflicts as well as synergies was conducted in 2008. Local communities, especially authorities, generally have a fairly positive attitude towards sustainable development and cooperation. Conflicts exist mainly between the CBR and the forestry sector, which is presently least oriented towards sustainability and rather focussed on economic revenue. We identified a common, but not insurmountable, lack of communication and cooperation between stakeholders. Local acceptance of the CBR is growing. Therefore the CBR can take the lead in applying a more integrative and participatory conservation management approach.