MAP-Rezia

The project aims to strengthen the cross-border management of protected areas along the borders of the Raetia region (Lombardy, Grisons, South Tyrol), through the common acquisition and harmonization of spatial data on biodiversity, the digitalization of environmental monitoring, the development of shared practices for ecosystem conservation, and the dissemination and promotion of the territory. The results will be crucial for management bodies, researchers, and policymakers to improve biodiversity conservation in border areas.

This initiative is co-financed by the European Union, the European Regional Development Fund, the Italian State, the Rotational Fund, the Swiss Confederation, and the Cantons as part of the Interreg VI-A Italy-Switzerland Cooperation Program.

---------------------------------------------

The project is structured in the following work packages. The Institute for Alpine Environment is responsible for WP3 "Assessment of forest ecosystems, scenarios, and quantification of ecosystem services"

• WP1. Acquisition and processing of remote sensing data for the characterization of protected areas. Acquiring hyperspectral and LiDAR data from aircraft and drones, as well as in situ data on the areas of the Stelvio and Swiss National Parks and the Val Monastero, to create standardized metrics between the two parks and outline the characteristics of ecosystem diversity in vegetation. With hyperspectral analysis, we will examine the distribution of plant species in forests and grasslands to define their distinctive traits for biodiversity mapping. LiDAR data will be used to analyze the structural component of forest habitats (e.g., structure, dead wood), which is associated with biodiversity. We will also create permanent monitoring areas for drone flights in priority habitats to ensure even more detailed monitoring of certain areas. This approach will be essential for conservation, resource management, and developing common strategies between the two parks to counter climate change in the studied areas.

• WP2. Analysis of biodiversity dynamics of large herbivores-forest-grasslands. Large herbivores are true "ecosystem engineers," capable of modifying vegetation structure and their potential for interspecific competition. The areas of the two Parks host populations of large herbivores with some of the highest densities in Europe, providing an excellent scenario to study their impact on biodiversity.
• WP3. Assessment of forest ecosystems, scenarios, and quantification of ecosystem services. A large portion of the surface area of both national parks is covered by forests that provide a range of essential goods and services. However, they are not exempt from the global impacts of climate change and natural disturbances that affect their natural dynamics and development. These impacts can cause reductions or losses in the provision of ecosystem services. This action will be carried out using remote sensing data on forest cover, structure, and composition, as well as ungulate pressure. These will serve as inputs for dynamic vegetation models to simulate future scenarios, from which outputs the provision of ecosystem services will be quantified through indicators.
• WP4. Enhancement of park synergy. The activities of enhancing park synergy aim to promote cross-border exchange. In particular, the two Parks aim to jointly organize activities aimed both at a specialized audience (technicians working in territorial management bodies) and a general audience, to enhance, disseminate, and promote the content developed throughout the project. Additionally, the parks will promote a biodiversity trail, "The trail of the 2 parks," which will cross the national border from one park to the other, with the addition of points of interest along the route and cross-border signage, including a dedicated event.