The overall goal of this project is the restoration of the bison to Romanian Carpathians which is critical for the success of re-establishment program for this species in all Carpathian Mountains (Polish, Slovak and Ukrainian Carpathians). The public awareness during the project will be an important factor in spreading information about the importance of this species for Carpathians forest habitats but also for local communities. The experience achieved by VNNP and Ecosilvex 2000 during the implementation of bison reintroduction program will be shared to the representatives of the protected areas administration, local communities and stakeholders.

Assessment of suitable bison reintroduction habitats in VNNP:- Based on this assessment, in 2009, the first bison group will be released in the most suitable area determined in accordance with methodology provided at the RSG 1.

Evaluation of protected areas from Oriental Carpathians:- All national and natural parks discussed in RSG 1 (Calimani, Ceahlau, Cheile Bicazului-Hasmas, Maramures Mountains and Rodnei Mountains parks) will be compared as suitable habitats for bison. The two protected areas which will be determined as the most suitable for bison will be assessed in order to find the most suitable areas for establishing the new bison herds in semi free conditions.

Public awareness:- This component will have two dimensions: the first is addressed to local communities in the area determined as the most suitable for bison reintroduction in freedom in VNNP. The second will address the local communities from the two selected protected areas in order to determine a positive feed back for the presence of bison in their area.

Sharing experience:- Ecosilvex 2000 Foundation’s members will spread the information gained during their involvement in VNNP’s bison reintroduction program. 4 workshops will be developed (2 workshops at Vanatori Neamt at the beginning and at the end of the project and 2 workshops, one of each selected protected area).