LIFE Varna paša

The main objective of the LIFE VARNA PAŠA project is to establish peaceful coexistence between humans and large carnivores, such as wolves and brown bears, and to ensure the long-term conservation of both animal species as well as agriculture by reducing conflicts.

The LIFE VARNA PAŠA project is based on three separate but interrelated work packages that provide a comprehensive approach to problem-solving by involving work at various levels, from government decision-making institutions to end users in the field. The project focuses on one country – Slovenia.

A diverse consortium of seven partners from the forestry, agriculture, and academic sectors takes a systematic approach to solving the problem of human-large carnivore coexistence. The consortium’s goal is to find appropriate solutions to prevent damage to human property and to include them in the new Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy after 2027. All protective measures and practices will be developed or adapted in cooperation with farmers, agricultural advisors, damage assessment officers, and local communities, including municipalities. Volunteers will also be involved to improve and expand the network of people helping farmers.

The transfer of knowledge between practice and education is crucial. That is why special attention is paid to cooperation with educational centers and universities, with which educational content is developed and introduced into the regular education program in the field of agriculture, nature conservation, and forestry. This will ensure the long-term acquisition of knowledge.

Working in one country allows us to address the environmental, cultural, political, and socio-economic conditions that are characteristic of Slovenia.