Proposed management measures in the protected area of Asterousia: problems and perspectives

In this research, the management measures are presented, which are proposed in the “Management Plan for the mountainous region of Asterousia”, carried out by the Heraklion Forest Service and the Crete – Region Forest Service. Its implementation aims at the preservation and protection of priority species (Gypaetus barbatus, other birds of prey) and their habitats. The present situation is being described, by providing general information about parameters such as the geographic position, property condition, as well as an analysis of the condition of the biotic, abiotic and man-made
environments. Subsequently, an evaluation of the present situation and the development perspectives is presented and the obstacles that block their implementation are mentioned. The management proposals for the whole area of eastern Asterousia and Kofinas are specified into action categories and their aims are evaluated. These measures consist the basic guidelines for the protection and development of the area, referring to: 1. Short-term and long-term actions for forest ecosystems, 2. actions for the range ecosystems, 3. development of forest recreation, ecotourism and information for the local people and 4. measures for the protection of the water resources.