In 1999, DANCEE launched a project with the aim of supporting the Bialowieza area in achieving socio-economic development based on the notable natural and cultural values of the area.
COWI - together with a Danish consortium - headed this project over the next four years.
The project aimed at establishing a common vision and a strategy for a sustainable development of the Bialowieza forest area. The area was marked by pronounced conflicts between local interests and the future direction of nature conservation and forest management. The project had to improve living conditions for the local population in nine municipalities primarily dependent on forestry.
The first two-year phase of the project enlisted stakeholder support and developed participatory processes in relation to management and development.
To promote income-earning activities, the project provided and promoted more than 80 small grants ($1-2,000) in close cooperation with local agricultural advisory services and the local government. This covered the fields of eco-tourism, accommodation, special local foods, handicrafts, small-scale processing and marketing of forest products, organic farming, bee-keeping, among others.
In the second two-year phase, cultural aspects of nature protection were added to the management and participation agendas. Building on a united management structure (national park and state forest together), management guidelines were delivered for the Bialowieza Forest. Sustained stakeholder support addressed awareness-raising for nature conservation and the use of natural resources.
Poland
DANCEE
Environment
Project management, advisory and expert assistance, studies and surveys, training, planning, small grants administration, working group processes, study tours.
1999-2003