The romanian Carpathian: The remnant of virgin forests and refuge of brown bears
2001
Stoiculescu, C.D. | Teusan, A.
The article describes the ample geological, morphological and climatic variety of the Carpathian in Romania and its outstanding biodiversity, despite the enormous regress of virgin forests during the last two centuries. It outlines the struggle of the forestry association Progresul Silvic, founded in 1886, whose objective was to protect virgin forests from complete exploitation by establishing national parks in the mountainous regions. - The authors describe the turbulences caused by World War 1 and 2 and their present day consequences: virgin forests only can be found in mountainous and quasi inaccessible areas. These forests are also a refuge for important wildlife populations, for example, brown bears. To protect and preserve these ecosystems is a matter of international interest (Rio convention). - Immediately after the fall of the communist goverment in 1989, the renaissance of an 100-year old Romanian project commenced. In January 1990, a number of 13 protected areas were declared national parks, another 12 were proposed of planned. The trouble with the legalization of the protected areas is outlined. At present, 17 large areas are under legal protection. - The cooperation between the above mentioned Progresul Silvic and the European forestry association PRO SILVA Europa is described, as are the new projects. Of special interest are the mountainous areas Rodna-Caliman, Giumalau-Rarau in the northern Carpathian (Maramures and Bucovina) and the historical and religious sites of the region.
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