We know the results of the research conducted as part of the “Assessment of the socio-economic impact of activities carried out under the LIFE.VISTULA.PL project on the local economy and society, as well as on the ecosystem function and tourism”.
The study was based on field research conducted with representatives of various stakeholder groups, including residents, tourists, managers of breeding ponds, anglers, ornithologists, representatives of the tourism sector, representatives of local governments and the project team, which provided a lot of interesting information about the impact of the LIFE project .VISTULA.PL on the local economy and society, as well as on ecosystem function and tourism, ecosystem services and socio-economic aspects of the region.
Research conducted with managers and owners of breeding ponds indicated the benefits of the operation of Natura 2000 areas, but also difficulties related to, for example, the pressure of piscivorous birds, such as cormorants, on fish populations.
The results of research with representatives of local governments and entities related to tourism and education confirmed that Natura 2000 areas in the Upper Vistula Valley bring numerous benefits, including an increase in the tourist attractiveness of the region, the development of agritourism and the protection of cultural heritage.
Tourist traffic monitoring showed that the main visitors are families with children, couples and groups of several people. Visitors usually spend a few hours, mainly on weekends. The main form of spending time is walking, hiking and cycling. The dominant group are the inhabitants of Silesia and Lesser Poland.
A separate group of visitors are anglers who come here mainly individually for more than one day, staying in tents or caravans.
Survey research showed that the LIFE.VISTULA.PL project contributed to improving the state of environmental protection in Natura 2000 areas, increasing ecological awareness among local communities and developing tourism and recreation in the region. Further actions should focus on continuing nature conservation work, supporting the fisheries economy and promoting sustainable tourism development to ensure long-term benefits for the environment and local communities.
