Objectives and Key messages

Objectives:

The main aim of the project is to reconcile the high levels of demand for recreation with those of conservation in both the New Forest and Fontainebleau. Within this aim there are specific objectives relating to the ecology of the forests, recreation, communication and the international partnership.

The project aims to:

• promote a feeling of ownership and responsibility towards the forests among both visitors and residents;
• raise awareness of vulnerable wildlife habitats, and enhance visitors’ appreciation of the forests’ conservation needs;
• re-direct people away from the most sensitive sites;
• guide recreation and change the way people use the sites through better communication and education;
• collect up-to-date information on recreation to help reduce any negative impacts and guide future forest management;
• forge closer links with local organisations, user groups, tourism/accommodation providers, etc, encouraging a unified approach and securing sustainable recreation on both sites;
• improve, promote and create more robust facilities for visitors that will have minimal impact on the forests; and,
• develop shared solutions with our international partners and promote our findings to other land managers across Europe.

Key Messages:

There are a number of key messages PROGRESS is promoting throughout the project. They revolve around the following themes:

PROTECTION – PROGRESS aims to raise public awareness of the need to protect valuable natural resources at the New Forest and Fontainebleau. In partnership with local stakeholders, the project seeks to channel and manage recreation to help minimise impacts on the environment.

EDUCATION – The project will conduct an effective public education programme to encourage respect for the landscape and promote responsible use of the environment.

TRANSPARENCY – The project will be open and clear about its structure, aims and purpose, and the constituent partners will be made known.

CONSULTATION – A consultative and co-operative approach will be adopted. Stakeholder groups will be appointed comprising user groups, statutory agencies, residents and other important local interests to help guide project decisions.

METHODS – Core data will be gathered during extensive visitor surveys, and used to highlight areas where the greatest environmental impact is occurring. Pilot actions undertaken at key sites will test out possible solutions, and their results closely monitored to guide future management practices.

COLLABORATION – The project will seek to strengthen relationships between local authorities, residents, user groups, education/health agencies, businesses and tourism groups to promote better understanding and use of forest resources.

PROMOTION – The project must be properly explained and publicised to the widest possible audience. The support of the general public, both local residents and visitors, is essential in ensuring any solutions are effective and sustainable in the long term.

DISSEMINATION – Information about the project’s work and results will be widely disseminated to help other land managers across Europe facing similar problems.