| Abstract |
This paper focuses on the establishment of a bilateral and transboundary management of the Halti mountain area. The area is located on the border between Finland and Norway The region holds a special place in many different aspects. For Finns in general and many tourists Halti holds a national symbolic value as it is the highest mountain in the country. The pristine nature is also attracting many tourists annually, but mainly on the Finnish side of the border. On the Norwegian, just like on the Finnish side, outdoor recreation, hunting, angling and reindeer husbandry are the prominent activities. Reindeer husbandry and cultural heritage are also important attributes that characterize the region. The area is also recognized for its biodiversity as an alpine landscape that connects the coast and boreal taiga forest. As an important wilderness area in Scandinavia that covers this diverse landscape, biology and history on both sides of the border there is a common interest and expressed need to secure a sustainable development for the region. By establishing a lasting cooperative organization – Halti landscape area cooperative board – one will work to secure a holistic management of the area that enhances the regions unique value in terms of cultural heritage, biology and landscape qualities which makes it attractive for recreational use. Through forming a common body of management one overcome some of the challenges that borders represents as the region share many interests, tasks and obligations to the preservation and development of the area. |
