Background of the analysis
It is emphasised in the conservation plan of the European mink that community involvement is a vital aspect for the protection of the mink population. One of the goals of this study was to create a model that can be used by the Environmental Board in similar projects, wherein the involvement of the local population is necessary in the process of nature conservation.
Methods
Qualitative methods
The opinion of the local people is an important factor in reducing the conflicts that may possibly occur during the reintroduction process of the mink. Qualitative methods made it possible to map the issues and concerns that the local people had regarding nature conservation.
Qualitative sociological study
A qualitative sociological study made it possible to gather information about how people felt about the mink and what information they felt they were lacking.
Semiotic analysis
Semiotic analysis made it possible to take into account the interrelationships of interest groups, the meanings which the mink has in society and culture, and how different interest groups interpreted these meanings.
Report
As the result of the analysis, the report "Lessons from European mink reintroduction" (in Estonian) was made. In the report, several recommendations are made regarding how to enhance the involvement of the local community in the reintroduction process. The report is intended also for readers who are interested in the (re)introduction of species in general.