Enhancing Coverage and Management Effectiveness of the Subsystem of Forest Protected Areas in Turkey’s National System of Protected Areas

The overall objective of the project is to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable use of natural resources in Kure Mountains as a contribution to the objectives of Turkey’s National Biodiversity Strategy and towards global biodiversity conservation. The project has the following specific objectives:To develop a National Park management plan for the Kure Mountains National Park, including a sustainable tourism development strategy, through a consultative process involving government, NGOs and local communities.To promote in-situ conservation of biodiversity in Kure Mountains, supported by relevant management programmes for important species and sensitive habitats developed through research and monitoring studies;To support sustainable forest management and natural resource use, and secure long-term sustainability of forest ecosystems through relevant restoration programmes;To ensure long-term financial sustainability of the park through a visitor management programme supported by education, interpretation and recreation facilities, and consider effective mechanisms for management of Park revenues;To develop alternative livelihood options for local communities (i.e. eco-tourism, non-timber forest products) in order to reduce pressure on forest resources thus securing long term conservation goals;To improve environmental awareness of local communities and visitors by promoting natural and cultural values of Kure Mountains through awareness raising activities, media and outreach through local NGOs.