Local communities The local population on both Czech and Slovak territories of the Bílé Karpaty Mts. is of Slavonic origin. From the Middle Ages, Wallachians settled in the region. Gypsies form a small minority scattered across the area. At present, several communities are affected by depopulation or by part-time residents taking the place of farm families. Habitation is mostly concentrated in villages situated in stream valleys. The central area shows a scattered habitation pattern. Culture in all its forms is still rich and alive. The region can be divided into two main ethnographical regions (Slovácko, Valašsko) differing in dialect, foods, costumes, crafts, music, and architecture. Many of these items reflect the close relationship with the natural environment. It is one of the last areas in the Czech Republic to continue traditional celebrations on a regular basis. In several communities well-attended yearly folklore festivals are organised, featuring regional music, dance and costumes. The region counts about 200 officially designated historical monuments. Beside religious objects (churches, belfries), farmhouses, hay barns and a complete wine-vault area are most characteristic. There are also many fruit-drying and smoking chambers. Development & tourism Development is based on the image of a clean and picturesque environment with a simple, healthy lifestyle and rich cultural heritage. At this time the anticipated base for development and income generation is a mixture of organic agriculture (producing e.g. sheep cheese, plum brandy, herbs), cottage industry and eco-tourism. There now exist several farms certified as organic. An Information and Development Office in the centre of the area helps farmers to make the step to organic agriculture. Also fruit-growing has again become popular among private farmers. Local apple juice is being produced in a village called Hostětín. Plum brandy is a popular drink made by many people in the area. Locally, craft products can be obtained. Tourists can make use of six nature trails and receive information about the area at the castle of Brumov and the look-out tower of Tvarožná Lhota. Environmental education Environmental education and teacher training is taken care of by NGOs. The activities include lectures, after-school education, summer camps, work camps, teacher training, conferences, field excursions, operation of information offices, leaflets and brochures, a bilateral periodical (Bílé-Biele Karpaty), nature trails, and exhibitions.