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The main goal of our protection activity is to build and keep stable the local population of bison - so it will become a natural and constant part of environment on this region - but at the same time to minimize the economic costs of its presence . We would like to create free living population the of around 80- 100 individuals , as according to research such a number guaranties proper functioning of population . It will be necessary however to bring new animals as a fresh injection of genes . The population would develop and stay healthy only if exchange of animals takes place . To make such a exchange possible the population should be composed of a few herds distanced 20- 30 km each other we call it satellite herds . Satellite system has also huge impact on reducing mortality - adults bulls regularly leave the herds to find new females , most of such attempts sadly end fatally causing a loss for whole population.
In August 2006 , one of the just brought males ( 3yrs old called Podziw ) made a very long journey ( 150 km) towards Goleniow Primeval Forest .Emergency steps were to be taken to stop him - a plan to bring a small group of females onto his way was accepted . Unfortunately Podziw died in car accident on 24 September near Gryfice . Small satellite herds would have been enough to keep the males in safe areas - and risk of car accidents and illegal shooting would be eliminated , or strongly minimized.
All the herds should be controlled and monitored , the information will be used to minimize any impact on the local economy - it is very important to secure crops so farmers will not take the costs on themselves . To protect forest from any damage winter and autumn feeding must be provided .
ZTP has made all necessary steps to secure the founding to run the project and make it safe for both the animals and economy. However our sponsors and donors would like to develop the population so it could become - genetic potential , and this depends on attracting further funding .