ENHANCING ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS IN RURAL AREAS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR LANDSCAPE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT IN LESZNO COMMUNE IN CENTRAL POLAND

Aim of the study The paper presents the research aimed at recognition, evaluation, and improvement of ecological connectivity within the area of Leszno commune area, focusing on the establishment of new ecological corridors and the enhancement of existing ones in rural area adjacent to forest ecosystems, part of the Kampinoska Primeval Forest belonging to the Kampinoski National Park, Central Poland, in the middle of Central European Lowland. Material and methods The desk research consisted of two sections: prior to the field study and after the field study. During the field research, the study area, located in the middle and south parts of Leszno municipality in Poland, was observed and documented. The original methodical approach has been used, applying the division of the study area into landscape units for further detailed analysis, and enabling precise addressing of recommendations. By assessing vegetation cover, dominant vegetation levels, and their continuity within and beyond agricultural units, important insights on the ecological value of each unit were gained. Results and conclusions Negative impact of roads on ecological corridors was identified as a major challenge. The importance of vegetation along roads and within habitat passages in mitigating the ecological isolation was recognized. Enhancing vegetation cover and creating various types of green corridors - as linear, stepping stones, and landscape ones - connecting forests, and also along roads, while maintaining a zone free of high vegetation directly next to road (due to the requirement of maintaining visibility for drivers), are proposed as measures to mitigate road impacts, preserve connectivity, and promote the movement of species.