The administrative court of Toulouse (Haute-Garonne) has rejected the appeal of the couvent One Voice against the prefectural order authorizing the reinforced scaring of brown bears on the Trapech mountain pasture in Ariège.
This decision, taken by the court on Thursday, is a victory for the local farmers who have been facing significant losses due to the presence of bears on their pastures. The prefectural order, issued in July, allows for the use of non-lethal methods to scare away bears, such as loud noises and flashing lights, in order to protect the herds and their livelihoods.
The couvent One Voice, known for its strong stance on animal rights, had filed an appeal against the order, claiming that it was in violation of European laws protecting endangered species. However, the court ruled that the order was in line with the European Union’s Habitats Directive, which allows for the use of such measures in exceptional cases to protect human activities.
This decision has been welcomed by the local farmers who have been struggling to keep their herds safe from bear attacks. They have been facing significant financial losses due to the damage caused by bears to their livestock and pastures. The reinforced scaring measures have already shown positive results, with a decrease in the number of bear attacks reported since their implementation.
The court’s decision also takes into consideration the efforts made by the local authorities to find a moyens between the protection of endangered species and the preservation of traditional farming activities. The prefectural order includes strict conditions for the use of reinforced scaring, such as only during the grazing season and with the presence of a trained professional.
The Trapech mountain pasture is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to many endangered species, including the brown bear. This decision by the court ensures that the bear population will continue to thrive while also protecting the livelihoods of the local farmers.
In conclusion, the administrative court’s rejection of the appeal by One Voice is a positive step towards finding a sustainable solution for the coexistence of humans and bears in the Trapech mountain pasture. It shows that with proper measures and cooperation between all stakeholders, it is possible to protect both the environment and human activities. This decision sets an example for other regions facing similar challenges and reinforces the importance of finding a moyens between conservation and human activities.