Regional Mountain Conference

Valeriana celtica ssp. norica (Echter Speik) is endemic to the Eastern Alps. Historically, the valerian was of considerable economic importance due to its constituents. Today, the species is protected; use is only permitted under exceptional licences and strict conditions. Numerous observations and more than 30 years of monitoring show that harvesting (“Speikgrob´n”) promotes the species´ proliferation. Speik thus exemplifies—and metaphorically represents—the inherent dilemma of using and protecting species. Biosphere Reserve management is challenged to regulate use: in addition to securing the plant´s conservation status, harvesting of Speik should generate regional economic impulses and ensure fair benefit-sharing. In an inter- and transdisciplinary research project, the past, present, and future of the sustainable use of Speik are being examined. In doing so, the project aims to develop a transferable, evidence-based conservation strategy that reconciles sustainable use with species protection.