Project was fully implemented concerning production of leaflets, posters, stickers, contacts with farmers with extensive contribution of volunteers (MTOF members, who passed extra training on owls, how to communicate with farmers) and installation of baskets (nests).
A very simple mistake was done by the NSC GEF/SGP and the Stork (previously MTOF); project was too short, not allowing for the monitoring of sites and observations concerning success/failure.So, at the end of project implementation a new proposal was submitted and next project extending whole activities with the main targer - monitorinhg of success/failure of inhabiting artificial baskets was approved.
Project has brought one problem: due to a very extensive contacts with media (radio, local TV), also distribution of laflets, brochures and posters - a false picture was created that long=eared owl is the most important owl, bird in Poland, the most endangered species, etc. People start to recognise (because of local patriotism, our NGO! our long-eared owl!! as the most important issue in Poland in nature conservation!
So - it describes how people can be succesfullin promoting certain values or products, here - something went too far, but on the other hand - in general nature conservation won!
This a tiny project was a good lesson for the NSC GEF/SGP, NC and NGOs.
Project provd also, how with a very minor money, addressing proper message, with skill and emotions, with NGO committment, with journalists seeking "something" to shot during Summer - we can achieve unexpected results.