MODEL FOREST

A Model Forest is a voluntary association of people that live in a particular territory, and are interested in discovering, defining, enhancing and guarantying its sustainability; and in sharing their experiences and their knowledge to contribute to global environmental goals... Model Forests are based on an approach that combines the social, cultural and economic needs of local communities with the long-term sustainability of large landscapes in which forests are an important feature. By design they are voluntary, broad-based initiatives linking forestry, research, agriculture, mining, recreation, and other values and interests within a given landscape... Model Forests are as much about the people who sustain themselves from the forest as they are about trees and forest products-they're a fully working landscape of forests, farms, protected areas, rivers and towns.

Also known as: Model Forest "River Mirna Basin", Model Forests