Stakeholder-driven management strategies for recovering large herbivores

In modern landscapes, the sustainable coexistence of humans and wildlife depends on involving stakeholders in the development and implementation of management strategies. This is particularly important for species like the European bison (Bison bonasus) and Eurasian moose (Alces alces), which are re...

Descripción completa

Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Hibler, Sophia, Kiffner, Christian, König, Hannes J., Blaum, Niels, Ostermann-Miyashita, Emu-Felicitas
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)
Repositorio:IRTA Pubpro. Open Digital Archive
OAI Identifier:oai:repositori.irta.cat:20.500.12327/4650
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12327/4650
https://doi.org/10.1111/csp2.70068
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:574
Descripción
Sumario:In modern landscapes, the sustainable coexistence of humans and wildlife depends on involving stakeholders in the development and implementation of management strategies. This is particularly important for species like the European bison (Bison bonasus) and Eurasian moose (Alces alces), which are reoccupying regions between Germany and Poland after a prolonged absence. The return of these species generates mixed emotions, as interactions with these species are associated with both costs and benefits to people. Addressing the apparent unpreparedness in managing these trade-offs, we implemented a digital participatory impact assessment in two steps. First, we engaged bison and moose experts to develop management scenarios and assessment criteria. Then, in a subsequent virtual workshop, stakeholders evaluated four scenarios along economic, social, and ecological dimensions. Quantitative and qualitative analyses revealed divergent perspectives and priorities, yet consensus emerged on the necessary future steps: formulating a comprehensive management strategy with guidelines and protocols for managing specific conflict scenarios, such as the incursion of large herbivores onto highways. Our approach underscores the importance of early stakeholder engagement in fostering a more equitable and sustainable management of human-wildlife interactions. Moreover, demonstrating the feasibility of remote stakeholder involvement, our study presents a robust model for enhancing coexistence, adaptable even where in-person meetings are challenging.