Intellectual models and sustainable nature use know-how will be implemented within the project in pilot areas of the Green Belt of Fennoscandia (GBF). Also, innovative approaches to promote the efficiency of Protected Areas (PA) operation through development of hunting, amateur fishing, hunting/fishing /educational tourism will be worked out. They further serve as a basis for establishing ecosystem services, sustainable and renewable benefits from nature to man.
The project concept rests on the understanding that wildlife, including fish, is to be viewed as an international resource, and managed concertedly by neighbor countries. The project is to be developed amid increase in understanding that hunting, fishing, hunting/fishing and environmental educational tourism are important constituents of the culture and economy of many countries, with the profits comparable with those from some industrial sectors.
Proceeding from the above principle, maps and conservation regimens will be prepared for transboundary ecological corridors with Muezerka and Kalevala recreational zones and adjacent Finnish territories as pilot areas. Also, management plans will be prepared for private and public game farms, and up-to-date methods for sustainable use and reproduction of fish resources will be introduced.
Concepts for development of scientific and learning tourism in Kostomuksha Strict Nature Reserve and Kalevala National Park will be worked out within the project. Residing on the work done application to establish a Biosphere reserve will be prepared.
The project shall provide information support to hunters, fishermen and education tourists, and implement a number of small infrastructure-building investment projects in selected areas. In the long-term, the project will promote the overall economic activity in the pilot municipalities, as well as contribute to better reproduction of game and a rise in fish populations in GBF on both sides of the border.
Further information in the project website
http://intellgreenbelt.krc.karelia.ru/index.php?plang=e
and Karelia ENPI CBC programme website
http://www.kareliaenpi.eu/fi/teemat/natural-resources/hankkeet/355
