Białowieża Forest

• Logging operations;
• Need for a management plan

IUCN has received the published document ‘Principles of the Bialowieza National Park functioning after its extension onto the entire Polish side of the Bialowieza Primeval Forest (Proposition)’, dated June 2000. The Polish Ministry of Environment and the Parliamentary Commission for Environmental Conservation is recommending the document to guide the organisation and functioning of the proposed extended Park. Conservation NGO’s have welcomed the document, while several representatives of local authorities objecting to the extension believe the document is a sound basis for a compromise. The document is a ‘vision’ for the National Park should it be enlarged. It was prepared in full consultation with all stakeholders as a basis for stimulating sustainable development of the region. A four-tiered zoning approach is proposed, including a strict protection zone (no forestry, no access), a passive protection zone (no forestry but access to the public to pick mushrooms, berries etc.), a transition zone (with moderate restoration management) and a restoration zone (satisfying local demand for wood). The logging intensity in the first year would be set at 70,000 cubic metres (60% of the present level) and is expected to gradually decrease due to the decrease in demand and changes in industry and employment trends.

It is envisaged that tourism development (one of the most important forms of regional economy) will take place at the edge of the Park and not encroach on the Forest. Education and training programmes are considered as ways of extending the tourist season, as well as building public awareness, understanding and trained professionals. IUCN applauds the “Principles Document” but notes that it is still uncertain whether a formal extension of the Park will take place.