Human Pressure on the Environment in the “Mun¸tii Maramure¸sului” Natural Park - Sustainable Development in Mountain Regions: Southeastern Europe - page 264

over 43,000 m 3 of sawdust along rivers and streams). The situations of clear cutting
with no subsequent afforestation are rather frequent and they endanger forest plant
and animal species.
Another important aspect to discuss as referred to deforestation is the removal
of dead wood out of the forest, without taking under consideration the fact that it
represents the only habitat for fungi and Xylophilus insect, moss and lichens, as well
as an excellent shelter for chiropters and micro-mammals.
According to the researches conducted by the “Muntii Maramuresului” Natural
Park Administration, among the species threatened by forest cutting in the park
area, we mention the chamoix ( Ciconia nigra ), the capercaillie ( Tetrao urogallus ),
the black grouse ( Tetrao tetrix ), the black woodpecker ( Dryocopus martius ), the
grey woodpecker, etc.
In 2007, the “Muntii Maramuresului” Natural Park Administration requested a
study on the quantification of goods and services provided by the ecosystems of the
area. The study conducted by Gund Institute for Ecological Economics, University
of Vermont, USA and Earth Economics, was aimed at assisting decision makers in
evaluating environmental costs versus forest goods and services. The findings of
that study have revealed that water flow regulation and carbon sequestration have
the highest environmental costs (Table 21.2 ).
Annual value for carbon sequestration in forest was based on primary data of
standing timber volume and assuming an annual volumetric increment of 6 m 3
per hectare (corresponding to an annual increment in biomass of 342,765.18 tons).
The combined value of carbon sequestration from forests, hayfields and Alpine pas-
tures resulted substantially different depending on whether pricing was based on an
exchange rate of 31.6 RON per ton or a social cost of 205 RON (Romanian Forest
Administration, 2009 ).

21.2.4 Mining Activities

Another economic branch that affects the environment in the Maramures Mountains
is mining, mostly close to the Toroiaga volcanic massif. Historically known for its

Table 21.2 Environmental
costs evaluation in relation to
forest services

Services Value per ha/yr (mil. RON)

Carbon sequestration 26.4

Water flow regulation 43.2

Soil erosion control 3.1

Wilde life habitats 0.8

Fishing 0.7

Recreation 4.8

Cultural heritage 0.7

Traditional landscapes 0.6

Total 80.6

Source: Romanian Forest Administration (2009)