Objectives

The objective of the project is to improve the conservation status of the Natura 2000 forest sites in Hungary, by identifying, developing and implementing a set of tools that support skills development,active communication and cooperation of the key stakeholders in the management and conservation of Natura 2000 forests.

The project is about to create a common viewpoint on the implementation of the Natura 2000 objectives, as well as develop a theoretical and practical knowledge base, and ensure knowledge transfer to the stakeholders to demonstrate the management practices of forests that support the achievement of Natura 2000 goals.

1. Improve and broaden the existing knowledge base on forest habitats and species of the Pannonian ecoregion, and share it to be used in conservation and forest management on Natura 2000 sites.

2. Enhance the adaption in Hungary of the European best practices of stakeholder involvement in Natura 2000 management, and of successfully implemented forest management and conservation methodologies.

3. Promote communication and improve cooperation among the Natura 2000 forest managers, conservation experts and forest planning professionals in order to establish a consensual basis regarding the sustainable management and conservation principles in line with the Natura 2000 objectives.

4. Enhance the integration of biodiversity aspects in forest planning and forest management implementation. Increase the extension of Natura 2000 forests where appropriate management practices are implemented by 20% in the project focus area, in forestry districts where forest planning occurs by 2017.

5. Raise awareness on the requirements of Natura 2000, and on the ecological and socio-economic benefits of close-to-nature forest management among the foresters managing Natura 2000 forests by at least 10%.

6. Improve the effective utilization of the EU funds available for conservation and management of Natura 2000 forests.