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CASE STUDIES FROM UNDP SUPPORTED, GEF FINANCED PROJEC TS IN THE EUROPE AND CIS REGION
“We succeeded in developing a partnership; this is the only way we can function, because you simply cannot do something on your own anymore, this is the world we are living in.” T H E M AY O R O F B I S T R A C O M M U N E .
The key to these achievements has been developing effective and inclusive forms of governance. Although implementation of the project was led by the National Forest Administration (NFA), the project area extended far beyond the forest estate. The NFA project team had to develop entirely new management approaches, involving a wide range of local stakeholders and building on the foundation established by the Maramureş Biodiversity Consortium, which was established in 2000 with membership from the County Council, the main natural resource agencies and the Ecological Society of Maramureş. The Nature Park Director is now a member of local development committees in the county, and the MMNP management team has become a respected and valued partner in regional development assessments, reviewing investment
and development proposals to ensure that Nature Park regulations are respected, and suggesting alternative approaches for eco-friendly development. The process of developing the management plan for MMNP has been central to building participation and public support. By involving local interests in the planning process, the project team was able to exchange information and ideas with stakeholders and build a consensus about future management. Of particular importance has been the participatory zonation of the Nature Park in a way that reflects the environmental priorities and economic needs of the area. In order to involve stakeholders in governance, two oversight bodies have been established. The Scientific Council comprises 13 regional academic specialists, and reviews all proposed actions or decisions that have potential environmental impacts. The 54 members of the Consultative Council represent the full range of stakeholders and meets to discuss the plans of the Nature Park, to share ideas for future actions and to work together to resolve problems and conflicts. With the project now completed, Maramureş Nature Park is considered by the National Forest Administration to be one of Romania’s leading protected areas in terms of the level and quality of management.
Project facts Duration: 2005-2009. GEF grant: $1.0 million. Cofinancing: $1.37 million. For further information, contact Ms Catalina Bogdan (Director of Maramureş Nature Park): catalina.bogdan@muntiiMaramuresului.ro; Ms Monica Moldovan (UNDPGEF Focal Point): monica.moldovan@undp.org
Prislop pass traditional dance festival in Maramureş. PHOTO: RADU POP
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