Mobility and timeliness are especially important for patrolling and rescue operations in protected areas in winter. Most areas of the Carpathians do not have proper transport to travel in conditions of snow cover.

At the same time, snowmobiles are not the best type of transport for all territories. Also, not all types of snowmobiles are suitable for the Carpathians. That is why two types of transport for winter conditions will be tested within the SNPA project before making large investments.

The first type, a snowmobile, will be tested in the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve. Most of the reserve’s territory is located in the highlands, without special transport the access is limited. Rangers walk at least 7-8 hours to get to the point and back, with a snowmobile it will be much faster.

Before the new year, the institution received a high-quality snowmobile with easy maintenance. It was transferred to the Kevelivske Nature Protection and Research Department. About 10,000 tourists visit this area every year. After the winter season, the feasibility of such transport will be assessed and a decision will be made on purchasing snowmobiles for other areas.

In parallel, the project will purchase a pilot ATV with caterpillars for winter to be tested in another target park.