New project aims to improve coexistence with large carnivores
Ljubljana, 25 September - The Slovenia Forest Service and its partners have launched LIFE Safe Grazing, a project to develop solutions for preventing conflicts between humans and large carnivores. The premise is that conservation of large carnivores is crucial, but it is also necessary to acknowledge the threat they pose to livestock and property.
Slovenia is one of the European countries that still has all three large carnivore species - the brown bear, wolf and Eurasian lynx.
"Despite significant forest coverage, we lack extensive forested areas that provide self-sustaining habitats for large carnivores, which leads to unavoidable interactions with them. Coexistence with these predators is essential due to the blend of natural and cultural landscapes," the institute said.
In recent years, large carnivores have returned to areas, such as the Alpine region, where they had been absent for decades. This resurgence has raised concern among local communities, especially livestock farmers.
They have launched this project in partnership with several organizations, including the Chamber of Agriculture and Forestry of Slovenia, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Food, and the Slovenian Beekeepers' Association.
The Slovenia Forest Service has previously undertaken international projects such as LIFE Wild Wolf, LIFE Lynx and LIFE Bear, focusing on the conservation of large carnivores in their habitats.
The latest project will primarily focus on reducing damage caused by large carnivores to livestock and property. "We will collaborate with farmers, beekeepers, and local communities to develop or adapt protective measures and enhance support through volunteer involvement," stated project leader Rok Černe.
The project also aims to foster dialogue among various stakeholders and increase knowledge about large carnivores, particularly regarding effective conflict prevention. "Integrating these topics into educational programs in agriculture, forestry and environmental protection will address gaps in education and promote long-term coexistence between large carnivores and humans," the project partners believe.