A project to establish a new European bison reserve is taking shape in Brasov County, planned in the commune of Soars, whose territory is almost entirely designated as a Natura 2000 site. The proposal is currently under review by the Technical Commission of the County Environmental Directorate.

The area lies within the Hartibaciu Plateau avifauna protected site, which covers 98% of the commune and is one of Transylvania's largest and best-preserved semi-natural landscapes, marked by high biodiversity. The targeted zone - oak and sessile-oak forests, pastures and meadows - is described as a valuable natural setting suitable for biodiversity-conservation activities and ecotourism.

According to the initiator, the Soars commune, the investment would support active conservation measures by acclimating European bison and creating a pilot ecological-management site within the avifauna protection area, also serving as an educational thematic park and a base for sustainable tourism.

The project notes the European bison's key ecological role in maintaining ecosystem balance through nutrient cycling, vegetation control, plant regeneration, habitat mosaic formation, creation of microhabitats essential for insects, and seed dispersal - all with positive impacts on protected bird species.

Plans include a viewing platform and bird-observation point, a secure perimeter fence, acclimatization and quarantine pens, and a dedicated area for pregnant females or cows with calves. The project also provides for upgrading the access road and visitor trail. AGERPRES (RO - writing by: Diana Dumitru; EN - writing by: Simona Klodnischi)

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