Conservation biology in practice: nature conservation management and landscape-level rehabilitation in the Egyek-Pusztakócs LIFE-Nature programme (Hortobágy, Hungary)
Abstract
The practical application of conservation biology often involves difficulties worldwide due to the lack of available information or to the neglect of such information. This paper provides an example on using knowledge from conservation biology in practice by describing the second, EU LIFE-Nature-supported phase of the rehabilitation of the Egyek-Pusztakócs marsh system (Hortobágy National Park). In the landscape-level rehabilitation, grassland reconstruction, afforestation and extensive cultivation of lands for small mammals occur on a total 920 ha arable land, whereas conservation management (grazing, controlled burning) aiming to restore the mosaic-like habitat structures takes place on a total 720 ha marshes and grasslands. The programme will result in increasing habitat diversity, a more favourable landscape structure and a landscape use better adjusted to ecological conditions. The experience gained may contribute to the further advancement of evidence-based conservation in Hungary.
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