CONSERVE CONNECT

Maintaining ecological connectivity through the provision of drinking water

Callisto is a key partner in the Phase II: Connectivity Conservation Initiative for Fresh Drinking Water, an initiative aimed at maintaining ecological connectivity for the grey wolf and the brown bear, with a particular focus on securing access to fresh drinking water in the mountainous regions of Epirus, Greece.

 

Launched in 2025, the project is implemented in partnership with Boulouki and Callisto. The collaboration focuses on studying and restoring critical ecological corridors in the Mastorochoria region (Smolikas–Kamenik), while actively engaging local communities through a Local Action Group.

 

Project Objectives

 

The project focuses on maintaining ecological connectivity between protected and non-protected areas, enabling large carnivores to move freely across the landscape and access fresh drinking water, thereby strengthening their resilience to climate change. At the same time, it seeks to empower local communities, improve conditions for human–wildlife coexistence, and encourage community participation in climate adaptation and ecological connectivity conservation.

 

Key Objectives

 

  • Habitat Connectivity: Strengthening ecological corridors between core natural areas.
  • Water Resource Restoration: Constructing and maintaining small-scale water infrastructure to provide fresh drinking water for wildlife.
  • Community Engagement: Training local residents, promoting citizen science initiatives, and supporting the operation of a Local Action Group for Water and Connectivity.
  • Environmental Education & Sustainable Tourism: Developing educational nature trails and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives.

 

Callisto’s Role

 

Callisto contributes its specialized expertise in the conservation of grey wolves and brown bears, maps ecological corridors, monitors wildlife populations and ecosystems, and provides scientific guidance for conservation and habitat restoration actions. The organization also supports collaboration with local communities, promotes environmentally and socially responsible management practices, and implements initiatives that strengthen local capacity while improving conditions for coexistence with large carnivores.

 

Project Information

 

Project Duration: 36 months (2025–2028)
Funding: PONT (Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust)
Total Budget: €295,000
Own Contribution: €74,000

 

Callisto Budget

 

Total Budget: €82,000
Own Contribution: €20,000

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