Involving non-governmental org. in the process of changing the management policy for prey species
About this good practice
This practice was developed under the LIFE Lynx project by SFS associates in close cooperation with regional managers (hunting management planners at SFS) and local hunting ground managers. Using a participatory approach, they jointly established science-based quotas for game culling, considering the presence of large carnivores. These guidelines were integrated into hunting management plans and were harmonized across Slovenia to ensure that the recovering lynx population had a sufficient and stable prey base. Special attention was given to roe deer management, as this species was the primary prey of lynx in the region. As a result, adult roe deer culling was reduced, which improved population fecundity and overall abundance. Hunters were the key stakeholders throughout the process. To keep them informed and collect feedback, numerous meetings and workshops were organized during the project period. Hunters actively contributed to adapting management plans and participated in lynx monitoring and the reintroduction of new individuals into their hunting grounds, which helped increase their tolerance for large carnivores. The entire process was closely linked to policy, as SFS planned and implemented interventions in ungulate populations together with relevant hunting managers, ensuring long-term, coordinated execution.
Resources needed
For that policy: 32.233,00 €
To implement this policy, €32,233 was allocated, covering expert input (biology, hunting, forestry), 106 working days, travel costs, and four hunter workshops (including venue rental and refreshments) to ensure participatory guideline development.
Evidence of success
The guidelines successfully addressed the main prey species (roe deer), reducing conflicts between hunters and lynx. Evidence of success includes the active participation of over 60 hunters and managers in 4 dedicated workshops, integration of guidelines into management plans, and strengthened stakeholder support, ensuring science-based, harmonized practices for managing large carnivores across Slovenia.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice demonstrates that early and continuous involvement of key stakeholders (SH), such as hunters and local managers, is critical for the successful development and acceptance of conservation policies. By applying a participatory approach from the outset, the LIFE Lynx team ensured that the guidelines for managing ungulate culling were already harmonized with SH needs before formal adoption. This approach not only improved trust and reduced conflict but also guaranteed that the guidelines were effectively integrated into regional long-term hunting management plans. Valuable lessons from this practise: involving local actors early aligns scientific data with on-the-ground knowledge, creating policies that are both evidence-based and socially acceptable. This practice can inspire improvements in wildlife and natural resource management policies elsewhere, particularly where human-wildlife interactions require balancing conservation goals with local community interests.
Further information
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