PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
The Jura mountains support important populations of two forest grouse species: the capercaille (Tetrao urogallus) c. 500 birds; and the Hazel hen (Bonasa bonasia). Both species are of major conservation concern as their numbers have declined dramatically across their historical range in western and central Europe. Importantly, the Jura populations are an important strategic link between these increasingly isolated populations. Both species require structurally diverse mixed forest and their presence indicates forests of high ecological value. Such forests are becoming increasingly rare as modern forestry practices lead to the development of dense uniform strands of a few selected species.
The Jura supports 50 000 ha of suitable forest for both species of which 25 000 ha have been identified as a potential reserve.
OBJECTIVES
The project’s main objective was to halt and reverse the decline of both forest grouse species by addressing the main causes of their decline in the Jura forests: i.e. habitat degradation as a result of inappropriate forestry practices; and increasing levels of disturbance through tourism and leisure activities. The following measures were planned to achieve these aims:
1. Scientific studies and monitoring.
Surveys would be carried out to determine: (a) the condition of forest habitats and their suitability for both species forest grouse; (b) current forestry practices and recreational use, and (c) capercaille distribution across the Jura.
2. Habitat protection.
To create a series of forest nature reserves (réserve biologiques domaniales); contribute to the creation of a substantial nature reserve in the Haute Chaîne du Jura, and instigate the declaration of protected areas (SPAs) for both species.
3. Habitat management.
Implementation of forestry practices favourable to maintaining optimal grouse habitat.
4. Raising awareness of issues affecting both grouse species among forest stakeholders (owners, workers, tourism interests).
5. Reducing disturbance caused by recreational activities (e.g. cross-country skiing, hiking with snow-shoes, hunting etc).
RESULTS
Overall, the objectives of the project were achieved and most of the measures planned were successfully carried out. The majority of forest management agreements with forest stakeholders, both private and public, are on a voluntary and contractual basis and are not obligatory.
1. Scientific studies and monitoring.
A series of maps for each forest unit was produced, showing the potential suitability of each site for capercaille in summer and winter, and which can be used to target habitat management and protection measures
2. Habitat protection.
10 800 ha was declared a nature reserve in the Haute Chaîne du Jura in 1993 and two SPAs were proposed. The new charter for the Regional Natural Park includes the protection of capercaille habitat as an objective in its forestry management practices. No new forest nature reserves have been declared by the state forest service as planned.
3. Habitat management.
33 voluntary management agreements, covering 1 084 ha, were agreed with private owners and the state forest service (l’ONF), to develop ‘grouse-friendly’ forestry management techniques. Modifications to forest operations in an additional 2 378 ha of public owned forest were also agreed.
Specific guidelines for the management of the 11 most common forest types to benefit both species of forest grouse were produced and distributed to forest managers.
4. Raising awareness among forest stakeholders.
Forest owners (private and local authorities) and workers were successfully targeted through a series of seminars and training courses and a promotional booklet.
5. Reducing disturbance caused by recreational activities.
A few forest roads were closed and a greater awareness was raised among some hunting organisations, but little impact was achieved on tourist and recreational interests.Overall, the objectives of the project were achieved and most of the measures planned were successfully carried out. The majority of forest management agreements with forest stakeholders, both private and public, are on a voluntary and contractual basis and are not obligatory.
1. Scientific studies and monitoring.
A series of maps for each forest unit was produced, showing the potential suitability of each site for capercaille in summer and winter, and which can be used to target habitat management and protection measures
2. Habitat protection.
10 800 ha was declared a nature reserve in the Haute Chaîne du Jura in 1993 and two SPAs were proposed. The new charter for the Regional Natural Park includes the protection of capercaille habitat as an objective in its forestry management practices. No new forest nature reserves have been declared by the state forest service as planned.
3. Habitat management.
33 voluntary management agreements, covering 1 084 ha, were agreed with private owners and the state forest service (l’ONF), to develop ‘grouse-friendly’ forestry management techniques. Modifications to forest operations in an additional 2 378 ha of public owned forest were also agreed.
Specific guidelines for the management of the 11 most common forest types to benefit both species of forest grouse were produced and distributed to forest managers.
4. Raising awareness among forest stakeholders.
Forest owners (private and local authorities) and workers were successfully targeted through a series of seminars and training courses and a promotional booklet.
5. Reducing disturbance caused by recreational activities.
A few forest roads were closed and a greater awareness was raised among some hunting organisations, but little impact was achieved on tourist and recreational interests.