Synthesis report: Wildlife as part of a conflict : experiences and recommendations

Abstract

This synthesis report addresses the management of human-wildlife conflicts in Finland. It describes the solutions that reconcile the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of livelihoods. Effective conflict management has positive impacts on the well-being of both wildlife and people. The report describes different examples that have been successful in conflict mitigation. For example, the accommodation fields have been a working solution to mitigate the conflict between the barnacle geese and humans. Further, tools have helped in coordinating the reindeer herding with other land use. In conflict mitigation work on case of the Saimaa ringed seal, changing attitudes of local people and developing seal-safe fishing gear have been important. The work demonstrates that successful conflict management is based on a shared knowledge base, which allows the understanding of root causes and identifying possible solutions. Ecological, social, and economic perspectives should be always considered. Collaboration between different actors is essential, creating a foundation for open ja clear communication, and enabling long-term commitments. The report provides six development proposals that can be used to prevent and resolve human-wildlife conflicts. The proposals emphasize the need for support for dialogue and collaboration, requiring the creation of peer support networks. A multidisciplinary knowledge base and an evaluation tool for assessing the management impacts enables the adaptation of the management system to the changing environment. The development proposals are: 1) More research on the impacts of conflict species on ecosystems, natural resources, and human activities 2) More participatory, interdisciplinary and crossdisciplinary research 3) Improve the knowledge and competence of scientists, decision-makers, stakeholders 4) Increase the peer support for those working in human-wildlife conflicts 5) Develop the collaboration between authorities and civil society 6) More impact assessment and research on conflict management