Acta Scientiarum Polonorum
Silvarum Colendarum Ratio et Industria Lignaria

The article defines the expectations and the role of local communities and social organizations in the process of initial planning areas defined as „forests with increased social functions” located in the Gubin Forest District. The study used information obtained through surveys supplemented by data from interviews about expectations and needs related to the active use of forests areas in the vicinity of the of Gubin. The research showed the need for active participation and the impact of local communities on the location, scope and the managment of forest and identified the needs for the future infrastructure development in those areas. The model of preliminary pre-project consultations, which gives local communities and social organizations the opportunity to have a real impact on the location and the way of conducting forest management, including the tourist development, was approved by the communities, therefor eliminate the likelihood of possible future conflicts.