(Projects submitting final reports after 1 January 2014 must use this format.)

LIFE Project Number LIFE10 NAT/LT/117 FINAL Report Covering the project activities from 01/01/2012to 31/12/2016

Reporting Date 17/07/2017

LIFE+ PROJECT NAME or Acronym Buveini ų tvarkymas

Project Data Project location Lithuania, Klaip ėda County, Skuodas district, Šaukli ų riedulynas (LTSKU0002) and Šiauliai County, Šiauli ų district Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais (LTSIA0007) and Kelm ė district, Vijurk ų pievos (LTKEL0017) Project start date: 01/01/2012 Project end date: 31/12/2016 Total Project duration (in months) 60 months Total budget € 634992.78 Total eligible budget € 634992.78 EU contribution: € € 315519.00 (%) of total costs 50 (%) of eligible costs 50

Beneficiary Data Name Beneficiary Directorate of Salantai Regional Park Contact person Mr. Robertas Staponkus Postal address Laiviai str., 9, LT, 97314, Salantai, Kretinga district Visit address Laiviai str., 9, LT, 97314, Salantai, Kretinga district Telephone +370 698 15232 Fax: +370 445 58761 E-mail [email protected]; [email protected] Project Website lifeplius.salanturp.lt; www.naturaliospievos.lt

1. List of contents

1. List of contents

2. Executive Summary...... 5 3. Introduction…...... 10 4. Administrative part ...... 11 4.1. Description of the management system...... 11 4.1.1. Action E.2 Project management by Directorate of Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park11 4.1.2. Action E.3 Project management by Directorate of Salantai Regional Park…12 4.2. Evaluation of the management system...... 14 5. Technical part ...... 14 5.1. Technical progress, per task...... 14 5.1.1. Action A.1 Preparation of Management Plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais (LTSIA0007)...... 14 5.1.2. Action C.1 Cutting and removal of self-seeded bushes and trees ...... 15 5.1.3. Action C.2 Mowing...... 17 5.1.4. Action C.3 Fencing of Šaukli ų riedulynas in Salantai RP and project areas in Kurtuv ėnai RP...... 19 5.1.5. Action C.4 Grazing of mouflon herd in Šauklių riedulynas...... 21 5.1.6. Action C.5 Pasturing of winter conditions resistant cattle...... 23 5.1.7. Action C.6 Reconstruction of wooden bridges...... 25 5.1.8. Action E.1 Monitoring of the impact on habitats and restoration of rare plant species populations caused by management measures...... 27 5.1.9. Action E.4 Preparation of After-LIFE conservation plan...... 29 5.1.10. Action E.5 Networking with other projects...... 30 5.1.11. Action E.6 Project audit...... 31 5.2. Dissemination actions...... 32 5.2.1. Objectives...... 32 5.2.2. Dissemination: overview per activity...... 33 5.2.2.1. Action D.1 Construction of observation tower in Šaukli ų riedulynas...... 33 5.2.2.2. Action D.2 Construction of information display boards and information plates...... 34 5.2.2.3. Action D.3 Construction of wooden footpath in Šaukli ų riedulynas...... 35 5.2.2.4. Action D.4 Publishing of project leaflets...... 36 5.2.2.5. Action D.5 Project web page...... 37 5.2.2.6. Action D.6 Seminars, conferences, meetings and dissemination of project activities...... 38 5.2.2.7. Action D.7 Preparation of educational program...... 39 5.2.2.8. Action D.8 Preparation of photo exhibition...... 40 5.2.2.9. Action D.9 Preparation and publication of articles...... 41 5.2.2.10. Action D.10 Preparation of Layman's report...... 44 5.3. Evaluation of Project Implementation...... 45 5.4. Analysis of long-term benefits...... 47

2 6. Comments on the financial report...... 52 6.1. Summary of Costs Incurred...... 52 6.2. Accounting system...... 58 6.3. Partnership arrangements...... 58 6.4. Auditor's report/declaration...... 59 6.5. Summary of costs per action...... 59 7. Annexes...... 61 7.1. Deliverables...... 61 7.2. Dissemination materials...... 61 7.3. Requested documents by EC...... 61 7.4. Final table of indicators...... 61 8. Financial report and annexes...... 62

3 1. List of keywords and abbreviations CB - Coordinating Beneficiary AB - Associated Beneficiary ME - The Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania SRPD - Salantai Regional Park Directorate SRP - Salantai Regional Park KRPD - Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park Directorate KRP - Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park KFE - Kretinga Forest Enterprise EC - European Commission SCI - Special Areas of Conservation MoE – Ministry of Environment

4 2. Executive Summary

This is the Final Report on the project LIFE 10 NAT/LT/117. The Report covers the period from 01/01/2012 to 31/12/2016. It includes a description of the activities undertaken within the project span and evaluation of the project results and impact.

The overall aim of the project was to restore favourable conservation status degraded habitats in three pSCI in Lithuania: Šaukli ų riedulynas LTSKU0002, Vijurk ų pievos LTKEL0017 and Dubysos up ė ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007.

The project objective was to restore and conserve Juniperus, heath and grassland habitats that are listed in Habitat directive annexes in Salantai and Kurtuv ėnai Regional parks by equipping best practice of previous LIFE+ project.

The conservation actions targeted the fallowing habitats present in these Natura2000 sites: 4030 European dry heaths, 5130 Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands, 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas, in Continental Europe), 6410 Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils ( Molinion caeruleae ), 2330 Inland dunes with open Corynephorus and Agrostis grasslands, 6120* Xeric sand calcareous grasslands, 6210 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates ( Festuco-Brometalia ) (*important orchid sites), 6270 * Fennoscandian lowland species-rich dry to mesic grasslands, 6430 Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels, 6450 Northern boreal alluvial meadows and 6510 Lowland hay meadows ( Alopecurus pratensis , Sanguisorba officinalis )

The key deliverables and expected results of the project were: I. Planning documents - Management Plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais II. Access and restoration of open habitats - reconstruction of two bridges to reach previously inaccessible habitats in KRP, removal of self-seeded trees and shrubs from 98 ha area in SRP and KRP (including 2 ha of 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas and 0.3 ha of ), monitoring of the habitats III. Introduction of concrete management measures – mowing, extensive grazing of mouflons in SRP and beef cattle in KRP, construction of feeders for animals IV. Public involvement activities – erected 4 notice boards, published 5 articles on the project in national and local press (10000 readers reached), construction of infrastructure to attract visitors to the project area in SRP, 4 seminars and meetings with local communities, members of municipalities, teachers and naturalists (100 participants). 2 Project webpages for project areas in SRP (1200 copies) and KRP (500 copies), developed education programme for schoolchildren (60 pupils), 2 leaflets on project areas in SRP and KRP, Layman’s report (1000 copies).

LIFE+ project “Buveini ų tvarkymas” delivered a broad range of project outputs in terms of habitat restoration, planning documents and public involvement/educational activities and measures. The outputs and quantified achievements were:

5

I Planning documents: 1) Nature Management plan for NATURA 2000 site - pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais

II Restoration and access to open habitats: 1) 1 bridge with reinforced the banks and 1 pipe culvert constructed 2) Self-seed trees and scrubs removal from open habitats– 80.3 ha 3) 4 ha 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas 4) 1.44 ha 6120* Xeric sand calcareous grasslands

III Introduction of concrete management measures: 1) 5000 m of electric fence installed in KRP and 2820 m fence installed in SRP 2) 2 feeders and 5 covered mangers for mouflons installed 3) Mouflon grazing - 40 ha 3) Angus beef cattle grazing - 27.4 ha 4) Mowing – 29.7 ha

III Tourism infrastructure: 1) 300 m of boardwalk installed in nature trail in SRP 2) Observation tower constructed in nature trail in SRP 3) 4 notice boards erected in project areas

IV Awareness raising, dissemination of results: 1) 5 published articles on the project in national and local press (100 participants). 2) 5 seminars and meetings with local communities, members of municipalities, teachers and naturalists (198 participants) 3) 2 project web pages for SRP and KRP 4) Preparation of photo exhibition in KRPD 5) 1200 project leaflets for project area in SRP 6) 500 project brochure for project areas in KRP 7) Educational programme prepared and education for schoolchildren (171 pupils reached) 8) Layman’s report (1000 copies)

This final Report includes Technical and Financial part. Technical part has the following chapters – Executive Summary, Introduction, Administrative part, Technical part (Action description and results, Evaluation, Analysis of long-term benefits, Dissemination issues), Comments on the financial report, Technical Annexes including Final table of indicators, Financial report and other Annexes.

To reach these project objectives, 23 specific actions were implemented. The following table summarizes the main achievements within a framework of individual actions at the project end 31/12/2016.

6 Action (Number – Title) Status Deliverables and outputs A. Preparatory actions, elaboration of management plans and/or of action plans A.1 Preparation of Completed • Contracted Nature Heritage Fund for preparation of Management Plan for pSCI nature management plan Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties • Nature Management plan prepared 18/10/2014 • Nature Management Plan approved by Minister of Bazilionais Environment of the Republic of Lithuania 20/02/2015 C. Concrete conservation actions C.1 Cutting down self-seeded Completed • Purchased equipment for removal of self-seeded shrubs and trees shrub and trees. By KFE tractor, 15/11/2012 and trailer 26/08/2014, by KRPD tractor and frail mower 26/06/2012, wheel rake 28/06/2013, hay baler and round bale wrapper 23/05/2013 • 37.3 ha mulched or cut self-seeded shrubs and trees in Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park • 43 ha cleared self-seeded shrubs and trees in Salantai Regional Park C.2 Mowing Completed • Equipment for habitat management purchased and • 16.7 ha mowed in 2013 continued • 16.7 ha mowed and 6.6 ha grazed in 2014 • 23 ha mowed and 14 ha grazed in 2015 • 27.3 ha mowed and self-seeded shrubs and trees C.3 Fencing of pSCI Šaukli ų Completed • Prepared construction project of infrastructure in riedulynas in Salantai RP and pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas project areas in Kurtuv ėnai RP • Contractor: Elena Vengrien ė individual enterprise • 2820 m of fenced installed in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas • Contractor: JSC Plung ės Jonis-S • 2500 m of fences installed in pSCI pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais • Contractors: inner resources of KRPD and SP Girinink ų projektai • 2500 m of fences installed in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos • Contractors: JSC Baltijos tvoros C.4 Grazing of mouflon herd Completed • Permission to keep animal in enclose in Šaukli ų riedulynas and • Built 2 feeders and 5 covered mangers continued • Purchased of 18 mouflons from Panev ėžys Forest Enterprise, Lithuania • Purchased of 2 rams from Delong Jan Delio- Develop, Poland C.5 Pasturing of winter Completed • Trailer for livestock transportation purchased conditions resistant cattle and 28/04/2015 continued • Trailer for hay bale transportation purchased 06/03/2013 • Purchase of 9 heifers 29/09/2014 • Acquisition of bull 08/07/2017 • Construction of winter shed and feeders 30/12/2014 C.6 Reconstruction of wooden Completed • Prepared construction project for bridges in pSCI bridges Vijurk ų pievos • Contractor: Juozas Lukoši ūnas • Construction of bridge and pipe culvert • Contractor: JSC Kelm ės drena D. Public awareness and dissemination of results D.1 Construction of Completed • Preparation of infrastructure construction project for observation tower in Šaukli ų pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas • Contractor: Elena Vengrien ė individual enterprise

7 riedulynas • Construction of observation tower • Contractor: JSC Plung ės Jonis-S • More than 40000 visitors D.2 Construction of Completed • Preparation of material and design for information information display boards display boards and information plates • 1 notice board installed at pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas • Contractor: Arvydas Klovas • 2 notice boards installed at pSCI Dubysos up ė ties Bazilionais • 1 notice board installed at pSCI Vijurk ų pievos • Contractor: JSC Jautmalk ės l ėpis • More than 50000 visitors accessed information on the project D.3 Construction of Completed • Preparation of infrastructure construction project for boardwalk in Šaukli ų pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas riedulynas • Contractor: Elena Vengrien ė individual enterprise • Construction of 300 m length boardwalk in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas • Contractor: JSC Plung ės Jonis-S D.4 Publishing of project Completed • Leaflet on pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas printed, 1200 leaflets pcs. • Brochure on pSCI Dubysos up ė ties Bazilionais and pSCI Vijurk ų pievos printed, 500 pcs. D.5 Project website Completed • Project websites launched at www.naturaliospievos.lt lifeplius.salanturp.lt • Lithuanian and English versions available • Since 4/7/2012 3,427 visits to lifeplius.salanturp.lt D.6 Seminars, conferences Completed • 3 seminars for stakeholders and meetings and • 4 field trips for representatives of municipalities and dissemination of project local communities activities • 1 meetings with local community and • Commemoration of the European Natura 2000 Day in 2016 D.7 Preparation of educational Completed • Prepared educational program program • More than 60 pupils reached D.8 Preparation of photo Completed • Organized photo contest-exhibition 18/11/2016 exhibition D.9 Preparation and Completed • Prepared and published 5 articles publication of articles • Information about the project reached 10000 people D.10 Preparation of Layman's Completed • Layman’s report printed in 1000 copies report E. Overall project operation and monitoring E.1 Monitoring of the impact Completed • Report on monitoring of pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas on habitats and restoration of habitats for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 rare plant species populations elaborated • Report on monitoring of pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and caused by management pSCI Dubysos up ė ties Bazilionais habitats for measures 2012, 2015 and 2016 elaborated E.2 Project management by Completed • Project manager selected Directorate of Kurtuv ėnai • Appointed accountant to the project Regional Park • 2 workers hired for management measures which require manual labour E.3 Project management by Completed • Project manager in SRPD and coordinator in KFE Directorate of Salantai selected Regional Park • Project accountant appointed in SRPD and KFE • Additional staff to the project appointed

8 • System for managing of finances was developed and implemented by SRPD • Coordination of preparation of reports • Inception Report produced in 24/09/2012 • Midterm Report produced and midterm payment request submitted in in 14/04/2014 • First Progress report produced in 20/03/2015 • Second Progress report produced in 01/03/2016 • Request for the Project budget amendments produced in 31/09/2016, approved in 10/11/2016 • Final Report produced and final payment request submitted in 17/07/2017 E.4 Preparation of After-LIFE Completed • After-LIFE conservation plan elaborated conservation plan E.5 Networking with other Completed • Visit to Slovensky Raj National Park projects Conservation of Habitat Diversity in Slovensky raj National Park (no. LIFE04 NAT/SK/000244). E.6 Project audit Completed • Audit Report elaborated 26/04/2017

9 3. Introduction The overall aim was to restore and secure favourable conservation status of 11 habitats types of Community interest, secure accessibility of the areas and long-term sustainability by extensive grazing and mowing. To reach this aim was set project objective: By utilizing the best practice of LIFE+ projects to restore and preserve favourable conservation status of degraded heath, juniper and grassland habitats in Salantai and Kurtuv ėnai Regional Parks.

The Project targeted three proposed Sites of Community Importance (pSCI) in Lithuania: Šaukli ų riedulynas LTSKU0002, Vijurk ų pievos LTKEL0017 and Dubysos up ė ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007. The following habitats are present in these sites: 4030 European dry heaths, 5130 Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands, 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas, in Continental Europe), 6410 Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt- laden soils ( Molinion caeruleae ), 2330 Inland dunes with open Corynephorus and Agrostis grasslands, 6120* Xeric sand calcareous grasslands, 6210 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates ( Festuco-Brometalia ) (*important orchid sites), 6270* Fennoscandian lowland species-rich dry to mesic grasslands, 6430 Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels, 6450 Northern boreal alluvial meadows and 6510 Lowland hay meadows ( Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis ) Due to a reduction in traditional and extensive farming practices both nationally and locally, open habitats suffered overgrowth by bushes and trees. The project areas had been abandoned for more than 10 years which led to degradation of targeted habitats. Furthermore, state institutions have inadequate capacity to address this problem annually which resulted in unfavourable status. Long-term socio-economic effects: increase of knowledge in the region, i.e. specialists of the local authorities, landowners and farmers, local pupil were trained on the need and benefits of habitat management. Overall effects: increase of the value of the landscape by restoring both unique and traditional elements.

Long-term results of Project: 1. Habitats restored and regular management started: - Trees and shrubs removal from open habitats – 80.3 ha - 11 habitats types of Community interest (including 4 ha 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas) grazed of – 97.1 ha - bridge and pipe culvert for further management of pSCI Vijurk ų pievos 2. Planning documents for further implementation and reaching favourable conservation status for habitats: - Nature Management plan for NATURA 2000 site - Dubysos up ė ties Bazilionais 3. People educated and informed: - pupil - local communities and landowners - specialists of municipalities and state institution - general public 4. Minor tourism and educational infrastructure installed: - boardwalk in the nature trail - notice boards - observation tower

10 4. Administrative part (maximum 3 pages)

4.1 Description of the management system The coordinating beneficiary (CB) of the project was Directorate of Salantai Regional Park (CB) that was responsible for project management, as well ensured everyday work of Project and communication between partners, stakeholders and responsible institutions. In both the coordinating and associated beneficiaries (AB) have been appointed or employed project managers/coordinators and project accountants. Project manager in SRPD was responsible for implementation of actions and targets in Šaukli ų riedulynas. Project manager in SRPD as well was responsible for general supervision of the project and compilation of technical reports. Project manager in Directorate of Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park was in charge of implementation of actions and targets in Vijurk ų pievos and Dubysos up ės ties Bazilionai, manager as well supplied CB with the necessary technical and financial information for reporting. Project coordinator in KFE was responsible for jointly with SRPD implemented concrete conservation actions C.1, C.3, C.4. Accountants in CB and AB were appointed to deal with general accountancy and help project managers keep track on project budget and help in reporting expenses. For monitoring of the project areas were employer environmental experts and for manual labour were employed two workers under a rolling work schedule.

European External Commission Co-financier of the Monitoring Team Project. The Ministry (NEEMO) of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania Monitoring of of Monitoring Project Progress Assosiated beneficiary: Coordinating Assosiated beneficiary: Directorate of Kurtuv ėnai beneficiary: Kretinga Forest Regional Park Directorate of Salantai Entreprise Project manager Irma Coordinator Sigitas Kupšys Jauzdauskait ė Regional Park Project manager Robertas Staponkus

Contractors

Finances, Monitoring of Contracts Reporting Project Progress

4.1.1. Action E.2 Project management by Directorate of Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park

On 11 of April 2012, the partnership agreement was signed between SRPD and KRPD. On 2 nd May 2012 Monika Goryt ė (former Ilina) was appointed as a Project Accountant. Since 30 th April 2012, Irma Jazdauskait ė was employed as a project manager in KRPD. Two KRPD owned cars were assigned for implementation of project activities: VW Caddy Combo (Plate No. DZO 477) and the VW Tiguan (Plate No. DTV 188). KRPD officers consult specialists of implementation of project actions, have meetings with project contractors and partners, and regularly visit project areas. In the project proposal all the fuel for the implementation of

11 cutting and removal of shrubs and trees vegetation (C.1), mowing (C.2) and the transport of animals (C.5) were placed under administrative cost (E.2). After a request to redistribute these costs among activities permission has been received from EC in letter No. ENV.E3 PC/pl Ares (2012) 1536203 on 20 th of December 2012.

In 2014 Irma Jazdauskait ė gave up her position of project manager due to maternity leave. Since 2nd of June 2014 for this position was recruited project manager Akvil ė Jagu čanskyt ė. She devoted most of her work time to execution project activities according to schedule and ensured effective communication with SRPD and external monitoring group. The project manager was also responsible for the dissemination activities: updating Project website, publishing article, presenting the project in workshops (Annexed in Progress report No. 2). On 23 rd of June 2014 KRPD of the accountant Monika Goryt ė has withdrawn from financial manager position. In July of 2015, Project Manager in KRPD Akvil ė Jagu čanskyt ė resigned. From November 2015, a former manager of this Project Irma Jazdauskait ė took over the management again. In spite of the lack of project manager in KRPD for several months, management activities continued. Implementation was carried out by the KRPD specialists and project officers. Until 1 st of February 2016, the project accountant was not employed. Therefore, Akvil ė Jagu čanskyt ė had to conduct both technical and financial management of the project, although basic financial operations have been performed by KRPD chief accountant Laima Buikien ė. On 1 st of February 2016, accountant Monika Goryt ė was reappointed for the project. She was responsible for the financial management records, financial reporting, and financial operations of orders and staff records. She is responsible for supplying the necessary financial information to CB.

KRPD also employed two workers under a rolling work schedule to the project. Their responsibilities included care of cattle and enclosures, preparation of livestock feed for winter and site management activities (mowing, removing self-seeded shrubs and tress).

4.1.2. Project management by Directorate of Salantai Regional Park

On 30 th of April 2012 Rimant ė Vitkauskait ė was employed by fixed term contract as a project manager in SRPD. She was responsible for the implementation of SRPD activities and communication with EC, AB and monitoring group (monitoring experts), representative of project co-financer (MoE), as well consulted with project managers of other LIFE projects carried out in Lithuania. In May 2012 senior Officer Zita Tertelien ė was appointed as a project accountant and on 19 th of February 2012 senior officer (senior ecologist) Asta Bago čien ė been assigned to the project. Her responsibilities included regular visits to the project area, as well as meetings with project partners and external monitoring group. To ensure smooth and efficient proceeding of the project is SRPD developed and implemented a system for managing finances. The AB agreed on the rules for recording, accounting and presenting costs at the early stages of the project. The project participants were sending reports on the project eligible expenses and copies of the supporting communication to the project manager and appointed officers who kept the project financial reports and compile statements of the project expenditures, including those attached to the Financial Report. SRPD owned cars were assigned for implementation of project o activities: at first VW Caddy Combo which later on was changed to VW Transporter (Plate No. BFO 712). SRPD faced even bigger rotation of project managers than KRPD that is presented in the table below.

12 Project managers in SRPD Position Name Period Project manager Rimant ė Vitkauskait ė Since 30/04/2012 To 30/05/2013 Audrius Vai čius Since 03/07/2013 To 24/09/2013 Robertas Radavi čius Since 13/09/2013 To 09/12/2013 Asta Bago čien ė Since 03/02/2014 To 08/10/2014 Rūta Alšauskyt ė Since 04/01/2016 To 02/02/2016 Robertas Staponkus Since 04/02/2016 To 31/12/2016

After the retirement of Senior Accountant Zita Tertelien ė on 6 November 2015 who was appointed as project accountant, new accountant Erika Lukoši ūtė replaced her in SRPD and was appointed for the financial management of the project. Since 4th February 2016, Robertas Staponkus was employed as the project manager. KFE appointed a coordinator and financial officer for the implementation of project activities. The project financial officer was appointed Zenonas Valasinavi čius, who since August 2014 is replaced by Regina Zajan čauskyt ė. Project coordinator FFE is deputy leader Sigitas Kupšys, who have actively participated in some of the project activities and provided consultations.

4.2 Evaluation of the management system

Constant contact was kept between the partners. Periodical meetings of AB with CB were held at least once half a year. During the meetings the progress of the project actions was being discussed, further actions planned, the methods how to carry out the actions discussed. The biggest problems encountered during the project was a rapid change of project management personnel resulting delays in planned actions and disrupted communication between partners. Added value of this partnership was a useful division of the roles in remote project areas where each partner was strong in local expertise. Partnership agreements were attached as Annex in inception report.

Constant communication with the European Commission and Monitoring team was secured during the whole duration of the project. This communication helped to fulfil the actions of the project in the best way.

13 5. Technical part

5.1. Technical progress, per task

5.1.1. Action A.1 Preparation of Management Plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007

Deliverable Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Nature Management Plan 2012-12-31 2013-12-31 Completed by for pSCI Dubysos up ės 2015-02-20 sl ėnis ties Bazilionais Milestone Prepared and approved 2012-12-31 2013-12-31 Completed by Nature Management Plan 2015-02-20

Expected results : nature management plan prepared for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais and approved by MoE.

Results of action: External services were used to prepare Nature Management Plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais (LTSIA0007). The foreseen date for the preparation has been postponed from IV quarter of 2012 to IV quarter of 2013 due to exceeded budget and search for an alternative funding source. The European Commission has been informed of this delay in the Inception report and the monitoring team reports. After improvements according to the comments of concerned institutions, Management Plan was approved by Order No. D1-141 by the Minister of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania of 20 th February 2015. The delay of this action has subsequently caused a delay in cutting and removal of self-seeded shrubs and trees from pSCI Dubysos up ės ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007. The removal of bushes and trees was completed only by 31st of March 2014. The mowing of the areas was delayed as well and started only in 2014. Nature Management plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais is valid till 2024. After end of Nature Management Plan the effect of carried out measures will be evaluated. If the objectives of Nature management plan are reached the plan is abolished otherwise it is going to be updated and continued.

14

5.1.2. Action C.1 Cutting and removal of self-seeded bushes and trees

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Action I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV Planned removal of

bushes and trees Actual removal of

bushes and trees

Milestone Purchase of necessary 2012-12-31 2013-03-31 Completed by equipment 2014-08-26

Expected results: Cutting of self-seeded trees and shrubs in 40 ha area in SRP, pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas and 58 ha in KRP

Results of action: Before any development of infrastructure in SRP, construction sites had to be cleaned of shrubs and trees. To save time and budget cutting of shrubs and trees was postponed till the preparation of a technical project for all the planned infrastructure (C.3, C.4 D.1, D.3) and precise locality of each piece of infrastructure is known. In the Inception Report requested approval for single construction project was received in EC letter (no. ENV.E3 PC/pl Ares (2012) 1536203) on 20 th of December 2012.

KFE fallowing the restricted procurement procedure acquired tractor for management pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas and maintenance mouflon herd (pictures of tractor Annexed in Mid-term Report, Annex 1 invoice No. 012566). The tractor was purchased on 14th of November 2012.

Bushes and trees were cut down and removed in within enclosure as well in 3 m strip around the planned fence. This activity in SRP was completed on 21st of January 2014. A total of 43 ha cleared of pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas (pictures Annexed in Mid-term Report) and prepared for mouflon grazing (C.4).

For the implementation of project actions and management of the project areas in KRP, project proposal provided the purchase of tractors Annex 2 invoice GAL No. 008185 and frail mower. During purchase process, the technical requirements for tractor have been changed, as it was decided to obtain tractor less powerful, but more suitable for management of alluvial meadows. A lightweight tractor has less pressure on the soil and does not damage turf. During implementation of activity, it turned out that the frail mower can’t be transported while attached to the tractor as it can damage the tractor's hydraulic suspension system. Therefore, in the Inception report there had been requested permission to use saved budget from the tractor and the flail mower to purchase transportation trailer. Such approval was received on 20 th of December 2012 in EC letter No. ENV.E3 PC/pl ARES (2012) 1536203). However, the purchase of requested trailer was not implemented as KRPD receiver trailer from the managing authority - the State Service for Protected Areas. It was handed over to KRPD by an act of entrustment.

15 During 2012 – 2014 the self-seeded bushes and trees were removed from the 37.1 ha in KRP, of which 5.7 ha landowners removed on their own initiative. In 2015, the offshoots (3.7 ha) were cut from the pSCI Vijurk ų pievos southern part. One of the landowners carried out thinings on the banks of oxbow (about 0.2 ha).This action is provided in the Management Plan to improve Dytiscus latissimus habitats.

In total, woody vegetation has been removed from the 37.3 ha (Annex 3, Annex 4) . In the project application it was stated that the area which requires restoration is 58 ha, but in the prepared Management Plans, this area was reduced to 20.5 ha. The discrepancy in sizes of areas occurred due to the absence of Nature Management plans for the sites during the application process. In 2010, Management Plan for pSCI Vijurk ų pievos LTKEL0017 was still in development, and for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007 – not initiated. Absence of Nature Management plans for the sites led to discrepancy in area size, as it was assumed that habitat restoration will include not only all former open areas but also riparian zones of water courses. In the Nature Management plans, these areas were adjusted according to the value of specific habitats and expediency of concrete management measures. Regarding this issue, EC was informed in the Mid-term report. And approval received in EC letter ENV.E3 LB/TS/ak ARES (2014) 4146507 on 10 th of December 2014.

The delay in the preparation of nature management plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007 has subsequently caused a delay in cutting and removal of self- seeded shrubs and trees. The implementation of this action in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos also fell behind the schedule, since the construction of the bridge, pipe culvert and the temporary pass were started only in July of 2013. Regarding this issue, the EC has been informed in the Inception Report.

This activity is directly interlinked with mowing (C.2) and grazing (C.5). If the later two activities are continued, there is no need to continue this activity in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais. Thus, the purchased frail mower will be used to manage other territories in Dubysa valley, which do comply with the requirements for habitats of Community importance according to national habitat inventory of 2013 – 2014, but do not fall within the pSCIs.

Self-seeded trees and shrubs removed in SRP and KRP pSCI Dubysos pSCI Vijurk ų pSCI Šaukli ų Foreseen up ės sl ėnis ties pievos riedulynas area Bazilionais Trees and shrubs 43 40 cut by SRPD Trees and shrubs 16.4 ha 15.1 ha 58 cut by KRPD Trees and shrubs cut in KPRD by 0.6 ha 5.2 ha land owners Overall: 80.3 ha 98 ha

16

5.1.3. Action C.2 Mowing

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Mowing 2016-09-30 2016-09-30 Completed by 2016-09-30

Milestone Purchase of necessary 2013-12-31 2013-12-31 Completed by equipment for mowing 2013-12-31

Expected results : management of 70 ha by mowing and beef cattle grazing and in line with Nature Management plans

Results of action: For the Implementation of this activity were acquired wheel rake, hay baler and round bale wrapper. The mower foreseen in the application was not purchased as it was received from the State Service for Protected Areas under the act of entrustment. In addition to the equipment, there was acquired bale net wrap and plastic cling wrap. Approval received in EC letter ENV.E3 LB/TS ARES (2014) 3029125 on 16 th of September. 2014.

There was mowed 20.3 ha meadows in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos LTKEL0017 ( Annex 5) of which 4.7 mowed by landowners. In pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007 (Annex 6) was mowed area of 7.1 ha of which 1 ha mowed by landowner. Due to the delayed Nature Management plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais implementation this activity fell behind the schedule and started in 2015. In 2015 1.1 ha was left unmowed in the latter site; as landowner expressed intentions to take part in National Rural Development Programme and manage the area on their own. However, the particular territory was unmanaged in 2015. In 2016 this issue was settled with the landowner, KRPD undertook mowing of this area. The prepared hay was transported to KRPD where the cattle are kept during winter. It was scheduled to start grazing in 2014 however due to rotation of projects managers and of delays in the procurement process for cattle it was impossible. Grazing of livestock started on 17 th of October 2014 in 6.6 ha of pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007. In 2015 – 2016 this grazing area there increased to 14 ha. Cattle grazing in 15.7 ha of pSCI Vijurk ų pievos started in 2016 after the enclosures were installed.

The project application as expected result provides a total area of 70 ha which has to be either mowed or grazed. However, according to the prepared Management Plans, the area under the need of management measure decreased to 53.5 ha. At the moment there are managed 57.1 ha . EC approved amendments to managed area size in KRP by a letter 12/10/2014 ENV.E3 LB/ts/ak ARES (2014) 4146507.

The continuity of the action will be carried out by KRPD as it owns the necessary machinery for the activity.

17 Territories mowed and grazed in KRP 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Total Total Annexed Annexed Annexed managed, planned in in in in ha management Midterm- Progress Progress Annex 5 plan, ha Report report 1 report 2 Annex 6 Annex 7 Annex 8 Mowed (by KRPD/by land owners), ha PSCI Dubysos up ės 2.7 7.1 sl ėnis ties 0 0 0 7.1 17.5 (1.7 /1) (6.1/1) Bazilionais (LTSIA0007) PSCI Vijurk ų 20.3 16.7 16.7 20.3 20.3 pievos 0 36 (12 /4.7) (12 /4.7) (15.6 /4.7) (15.6 /4.7) (LTKEL0017) Grazed (only by KRPD), ha PSCI Dubysos up ės An sl ėnis ties 0 0 6.6 14 14 14 alternative Bazilionais to mowing (LTSIA0007) PSCI Vijurk ų An pievos 0 0 0 0 15.7 15.7 alternative (LTKEL0017) to mowing Total: 37 57.1 57.1 53,5

18

5.1.4. Action C.3 Fencing of in Salantai RP and project areas in Kurtuv ėnai RP

Milestone Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Enclosures installed 2014-07-31 2014-06-30 Completed by 2016-12-31

Expected results : installed of 2500 m of fence in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas and total length of 5000 m in pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais and pSCI Vijurk ų pievos

Results of action: In Inception Report, EC was addressed with a request to endorse a single construction project for fencing and other infrastructure in pSCI Šauklių riedulynas. The request was approved in EC letter (no. ENV.E3 PC/pl Ares (2012) 1536203 on 20 th of December 2012. Removal of vegetation and installation of fence started after the signing the contract in 24th of October 2013. Construction works were carried out in line with the project schedule. In total, there we installed 2,820 m of fence, gates and 2 pairs of staircases over the enclosure and the territory prepared for mouflon grazing (C.4).

After consultations with beef cattle breeders and mangers of similar projects, it turned out that portable fencing is insufficient for beef cattle. Therefore, a permanent fencing was installed. The request was approved in EC letter ENV-E-3 LB/Ts/ip on 17 th of May 2016. The first segment of 6.6 ha ( Annexed in Progress report 2 ) was installed in 2014 in the northern part pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais LTSIA00072014. The necessary materials for the permanent fence were acquired and fencing works were carried out by park staff, participants of international volunteer camp, students – trainees. Due to the lack of experience, all works took longer than expected. In 2015, KRPD was in lack of inner resources to carry out fencing; therefore, fencing services were purchased. The enclosure in the northern part of pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais was expanded to 14 ha.

As permanent fencing was made of more durable materials to serve a longer period i.e. wooden support stakes instead of plastic, metal wire instead of plastic strips, the cost significantly increased. KRPD have received additional funding from Environmental Protection Programme of Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania in 2016 to complete the construction of permanent enclosures (up to 5 km). This funding from the national budget was used to install 2,500 m of enclosures in the pSCI Vijurk ų pievos in 2016.

In total, there are installed 5 km of the fence. 2,500 m in the northern part of pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais and 2,500 m in the pSCI Vijurkų pievos. In pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais enclosure covers 14 hectares. The enclosure consists of two permanent segments 6.6 ha and 7.4 ha. In the pSCI Vijurk ų pievos enclosure includes three permanent segments 5 ha, 5.2 ha and 5.5 ha.

The length of fencing installed Project area Length of fence Foreseen length of installed fence pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas 2820 m 2500 m pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties 2500 m 2500 m

19 Bazilionais pSCI Vijurk ų pievos 2500 m 2500 m Overall: 7820 m 7500 m

After the completion of the project KFE in Partnership agreement paragraph 5.1.8 committed, to take over maintenance of the entire infrastructure (including fencing) in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas from SRPD. The transfer procedure for the infrastructure and mouflon herd already started and is expected to be completed by 2018 ( Annex 9). KRPN will assure maintenance of fencing in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais until local farmer is contracted for transfer of livestock and grazing of project areas. Meanwhile, the expenses will be covered from bull sale and Rural Development Programme support.

20 5.1.5. Action C.4 Grazing of mouflon herd in Šauklių riedulynas

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Activity I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV Received permissions to keep mouflons in the enclosure Installation of feeders Mouflons introduction to the enclosure in Šaukli ų riedulynas Mouflons herd grazing

in Šaukli ų riedulynas

Expected results : grazing of mouflon herd in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas in order to restore and conserve 40 ha habitats of Community importance including 2 ha of 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas

Results of action: The project application did not foresee the trailer, which was necessary to transport mouflon feed to enclose. As SRPD did not have a suitable trailer, which can transport feed in winter time i.e. grain, vegetables, and hay. Therefore, EC was requested to approve the purchase of a trailer from saved tractor budget (C.1). The approval has been received on 20 th of December 2012 in EC letter No. ENV.E3 PC/pl Ares (2012) 1536203. The trailer was acquired on 26 th of August 2014. As the winter after mouflon release was soft, and as mouflons were expected to significantly reduce offshoots, no hay was not transported to the enclosure and trailer was not used. The trailer was used in winter 2016 to transport hay, grain and mineral supplements to the enclosure.

The authorization to keep in captivity mouflons was received in 2012 ( Annexed in Mid-term Report). The release of mouflon herd was delayed until the end of construction works in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas. Moreover, in the Mid-term report, it was proposed to additionally built 5 covered mangers for mouflons in Šaukli ų riedulynas. The approval has been received on 10th of December 2014 in EC letter No. ENV.E3 LB/TS/ak. The mangers have been scattered across whole 40 ha area. Installation of mangers did not require additional funding since they were built from the savings on the rest of infrastructure. All the works were completed by the end of October 2014 as provided in the project proposal.

The actual mouflon grazing started on the 1 st of December 2015 due to mouflon ecology and delayed EC payment. At that time 18 mouflons were released (14 females and four males) into enclosure, with ages ranging from 6 to 36 months. Mouflon herd gender composition and age distribution has been recommended by specialists from Panev ėžys Forest Enterprise, from which mouflons were purchased. Later on, two mouflon males from the unrelated herd were bought in Poland and released in February 2016. The aim of this purchase is to improve genetic diversity and reduce inbreeding in herd. To forecast how the delayed introduction of the mouflons would impact the targeted habitats, SRPD had consulted the experts. On the 8th of October 2015, a formal request V1-122 was sent to the head of Botanical Institute of Nature Research Centre Dr. Valerijus Rašomavi čius, who visited Šaukli ų riedulynas in October. On 7 th of February 2016, we received his assessment and recommendations. In the reply ( Annexed in Progress Report No 2) he concludes that the beginning of grazing should

21 slow up the spread of offshoots as well that this delay won't have any adverse impact on the habitats. He also recommends to monitor habitats and, if necessary, in 2016 to remove offshoots mechanically from 4030 European dry Heath, 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands and 6410 Molinia meadows on calcareous habitats. He also doubts that mouflons would gnaw offshoots effectively if they were released in spring when there is enough of herbaceous vegetation.

After the completion of the project KFE in the Partnership agreement 5.1.8 committed, to take over maintenance of mouflon herd in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas from SRPD. The transfer procedure of mouflon herd has already started and is expected to be completed by 2018.

22

5.1.6. Action C.5 Pasturing of winter conditions resistant cattle

Action Original deadline Revised Implementation deadline status Purchase of livestock trailer 2014-12-31 2015-06-31 Completed by 2015-04-28 Purchase of hay bale trailer 2014-12-31 2014-12-31 Completed by 2013-03-06 Pasturing of cattle 2016-09-30 2016-09-30 Completed by

Deliverable

Milestone Construction of shed and feeder 2013-12-31 2014-12-31 Completed by 2014-12-31 Purchase of cattle 2014-12-31 2014-12-31 Completed by 2015-07-17 Purchase of equipment for 2014-12-31 2015-06-31 Completed by livestock and hay transportation 2015-04-2

Expected results : management of 70 ha by mowing and beef cattle grazing and in line with Nature Management plans

Results of action: In 2013 there was purchased trailer for hay bale transportation. The trailer was used to take away hay from the mowed areas.

From possible extensive meet cattle breeds i.e. Galloway, Aberdeen Angus, or Hereford, it was decided to choose Aberdeen Angus breed of cattle, because this breed can survive harsh winters with snowfall and storms, and is characterized by endurance and adaptation to different types of ecosystems (especially the steep slopes and difficult terrain). This breed is well tempered, eats shrubs and in general is not picky for feed.

In 2014 cattle were purchased following a public procurement procedure from A category cattle herd in Lithuania. In total nine cattle were bought: 8 year-old heifers and one heifer 1.5- year heifer (photos Annexed in Progress report No 1). The cattle were brought to the enclosures installed in pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007 and cattle grazing started on 17 th of October 2014. One of the purchased heifers was bred and in 2015 calved a bull. In the summer of 2015 the bull was purchased. At the moment there are 15 cattle in the herd.

Construction of winter shed and feeders was postponed from 2013 to 2014 the approval was received in EC letter No. ENV.E3 LB/ARES (2013) 3714023 on 13 th of December 2013. After the purchase of cattle, procurement process was initiated for construction services of shed and feeders. The necessary infrastructure was ready by the end of the year 2014. The trailer was borrowed and the herd was transported to wintering shed at the end of December 2014.

23 At the end of December 2014, disappeared one of newly purchased heifers. Regarding this issue was informed Šiauliai County police department, which took up the judicial inquiry. After interviews of witnesses (local population, supervisors), police stopped the investigation. The carcass of the heifer was found drowned in Oxbow the fallowing spring. The bull was purchased in the summer of 2015. To reduce the cost of bull transportation from Germany, it was transported with other livestock purchased by Lithuanian farmers and arrived in July 2015. On 10th of December 2015 bull died of peritonitis.

The project application did not foresee funds for livestock insurance; such expenses were approved on 2nd of July 2015 by EC Letter No. ENVE3 LB/TS/ip Ares (2015)2782477. Therefore, the herd was not insured at the time when the heifer drowned. Due to changes in project managing personnel, the newly arrived bull was not included in the total herd insurance. So it was impossible to receive any insurance benefits in both cases.

The drop of cattle did not have a significant impact on the activity. In 2016 were received 6 calves (4 heifers and 2 bulls) of the fallen bull. However, it must be taken into account that due to affinity bulls can’t be kept in the herd longer than a year. Consequently, KRPD signed a cooperation agreement with the Lithuanian Farmers' Union (Zarasai department). Both sides of this agreement committed to exchange free of charge bulls for breeding. In spring 2016, one KRPD bull was sent to Zarasai and it is expected to receive one in KRPD in 2017. Such practice allows maintaining healthy herd and secures the continuity of this activity.

The cattle had to be vaccinated at the end of 2014. However, the project application also did not foresee funds for livestock veterinary equipment and services. This issue was raised during the consultations with external monitoring team, and approval for such expenses was received on 2 nd of July 2015 by EC Letter No. ENVE3 LB/TS/ip Ares (2015)2782477.

KRPD will take care of the herd until it will reach the size of 20 cows. Meanwhile, the expenses will be covered from bull sale and Rural Development Programme support. When target size is reached, the herd will be given free of charge to the farmer under the contract upon agreed period, during which the farmer will be obliged to graze project areas.

24

5.1.7. Action C.6 Reconstruction of wooden bridges

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Registering of 2016-01-05 Completed infrastructure in State Enterprise Register Centre Deliverable Prepared technical design 2012-12-31 2012-12-31 Completed by for reconstruction of 2013-12-31 and wooden bridges submitted with Mid- term Report Milestone Reconstruction of 2013-12-31 2013-12-31 Completed by wooden bridges 2013-12-06 (Annex 10 )

Expected results : reconstructed bridges over watercourses to enable access to the territory of 13 ha with targeted habitats: 2330 Inland dunes with open Corynephorus and Agrostis grasslands, 6120* Xeric sand calcareous grasslands, 6270* Fennoscandian lowland species- rich dry to mesic grasslands, 6450 Northern boreal alluvial meadows, 6510 Lowland hay meadows ( Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis )

Results of action: The Bridge Reconstruction Technical design was prepared on 31 st of October 2012. Before preparation of technical design, agreement has been signed with the Kelm ė district municipality ( Annex 11 ). The agreement foresees handing over built bridges to municipality after it is registered in State Enterprise Register Centre

After the preparation of the technical design project, it became apparent that the bridge over Dubysa is in the state of emergency and instead of reconstruction the bridge it had to be rebuilt. Additionally, the banks and the bridge had to be reinforced due to the high possibility of flooding and effect of aquaculture ponds upstream. Such constructions fall under a category of heavy-duty constructions according to a national legislative system and are under strict construction requirements according to Order No. D1-551 by the Minister of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania of 7 July 2011.

The second bridge over the oxbow was dismantled by local people in 2012 for safety reasons. Since the oxbow is narrow with low current and low water level fluctuations, installation of a culvert over oxbow was selected as the most appropriate option.

The biggest problem faced during the implementation of this action was an increase in complexity and subsequently, the cost of bridge and culvert construction. To finish the construction on time, the Directorate of Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park covered these extra costs by funding received from The Lithuanian Road Administration under the Ministry of Transport and Communications. This funding is additional KRPD contribution to the project.

25 On the course of the project it was noticed that costs of Reconstructions of wooden bridges (C.6) were initially placed under “Other costs” category in the project application. The necessity to re-classify the costs from the budget category “Other costs” to the category “Infrastructure” has been raised in the EC letter No ENV.E3 LB/TS ARES (2014) issued on 16 September 2014. As the sum relocated exceed 30000 € and 10% of cost category a request for project amendment V1-166 have been sent to EC on 7th of September 2016. Amendment to the Grant Agreement was issued on 31 st of December 2016. The bridges are registered in State Enterprise Register Centre as the property of KRPD. The procedure of handing over built infrastructure to Kelm ė district municipality have already started. The transfer property between public bodies requires Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania and is a lengthy process. Until the bridges are handed over, KRPD will assure maintenance of bridges.

After field visit it was noted in No ENV-D4 LB/TS/sp on 28 November 2016 that reconstructed bridges do not bear the LIFE and Natura 2000 logos. Currently, the logos are placed on the infrastructure and are well visible (Annex 12 ).

26

5.1.8. Action E.1 Monitoring of the impact on habitats and restoration of rare plant species populations caused by management measures

Action Purchased equipment for 2012-09-30 2012-09-30 Completed by monitoring 2014-10-01 GIS software purchased 2014-12-31 2015-06-30 Completed by 2015-10-12 Deliverable Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status First monitoring and report 2012-09-30 2012-09-30 Completed 2012-10-28 Second monitoring and 2013-09-30 2013-09-30 Completed by report 2013-10-04 Third monitoring and report 2014-09-30 2014-09-30 Completed by 2014-10-31 Fourth monitoring and 2015-09-30 2015-09-30 Completed by report 2015-12-25 Fifth monitoring and report 2016-09-30 2016-09-30 Completed by 2016-12-27

Expected results : Degradation of 40 ha habitats in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas and 70 ha of natural meadows in KRP is stopped and properly maintained

Results of action: The project application foresees annual monitoring of habitats of community interest in all three project sites: pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas, pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilioniais.

Firstly of all was acquired equipment for the monitoring of areas. For the monitoring in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas, it was planned to obtain a GPS device, camera, and binoculars. The GPS device was obtained at a lower cost that foreseen in the project application, saving enough budget to purchase a laptop which was used to process monitoring data. Use of savings for purchase of laptop was approved by EC Technical desk officer Muriel Drukman on 19 th of March 2012.

In project application, purchase of GIS equipment was listed as a deliverable of activity. In the letter No. ENVE3 LB/ARES (2013) 3714023 received on 13 th of December 2013 EC noted that this cannot be considered a deliverable. Therefore, the deliverable of this activity should be considered monitoring reports of project areas.

Due to project manager rotation in KRPD a tender document for the purchase of GIS software was not prepared on time and purchase was delayed till 2015. The purchased GIS software was used for data processing and preparation of reports.

Habitat monitoring in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas was carried out 4 times. In 2012 for monitoring by a fixed-term contract was hired ecologist Inta Valatkevi čien ė ( Annexed in Mid-term Report) and 2013. - Ecologist Inga Venskutė (Annexed in Mid-term Report). In 2014 monitoring in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas was not carried out as the shrubs and trees were

27 not removed in the territory by the time and changes in habitat status and the area were not expected. This issue was discussed at the meeting with the external monitoring group (Anita Rubene) on 23-24 of September 2014. In July - September 2015, after the removal of shrubs, monitoring in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas was carried out by ecologist dr. Robertas Staponkus (Annexed in Progress report No 2). Removal of shrubs and trees allowed a complete inventory of habitats and their boundaries. Until now, even during the preparation of the Management Plan (2002 and 2005), the inventory of habitat was less detailed. After removal of bushes, there are identified larger areas of Molinia meadows and Nardus grasslands. It was an observed reduction of heaths which is caused by both previous inaccurate data and the fact that they form mosaic cover within juniper habitats. In 2016 monitoring was carried out by Gyt ė Čeplinskait ė (Annex 13 ). The status of Nardus grasslands and heath habitats was assessed as good. However, the status of Molinia meadows is assessed as only favourable due to offshoots in the depressions of the area where Molinia habitats thrive.

Habitat monitoring pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais was carried out 3 times. In 2014 monitoring report of habitats in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais was prepared by the project manager Akvil ė Jagu čanskyt ė (BSc Ecology). ( Annexed in Progress report No. 1). In 2015, KRPD the monitoring was carried by ecologist Vidmantas Lopeta ( Annexed in Progress report No 2). Overall, the results indicated a positive and significant effect of cattle grazing. In a relatively short period, habitat degradation stopped. Not so obvious, but undoubtedly positive effect is also seen in mowed areas. Populations of Red Book plants ( Dactylorhiza baltica and Orchis militaris ) have stabilized in these areas. During EC visit 31 st of May 2016 it was requested to transfer budget from the cost category “Personnel” to “External assistance” for the extended monitoring. Approval to request was receiver in EC letter No. ENV-D4 LB/TS/sp on 31 st of May 2016. In 2016 a monitoring of plant species and habitats was carried out by dr. Dalyt ė Matulevi čiūtė ( 2016 monitoring report in Annex 14)

28

5.1.9. Action E.4 Preparation of After-LIFE conservation plan

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Preparation of After-LIFE 2016-12-31 2016-12-31 Completed conservation plan

Expected results : After-LIFE Conservation Plan delivered with the final report.

Results of action: After-LIFE Conservation Plan was elaborated by the project beneficiaries for the territories at the very end of the project. It is attached as Annex 15 . It contains actions that will be implemented by the project beneficiaries with the aim to maintain the results of the project.

29

5.1.10. Action E.5 Networking with other projects

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Visit to Slovakia 2013-09-30 2014-06-31 Completed by 2014-02-14

Expected results : Visit to similar LIFE Nature project to gain experience in management of territories by grazing

Results of action: During the meeting with the external monitoring group on 8 th of October 2013, it was discussed the possible change of country and institution of the visit and asked for an extension for this activity, as acquisition of mouflons was delayed. The EC approved proposed amendment for activity E.5 and postponed the implementation date till the second quarter of 2014 in Letter No. ENV.E3 LB / ARES (2013) 3714023 received on 13 th of December 2013. Cooperation visit to Slovakia took place on 9-14 of February 2014. During the trip, a meeting was organized in National park Slovensky raj, which in 2004-2008 implemented LIFE + project "Conservation of Habitat Diversity in Slovensky raj National Park (No. LIFE04 NAT/SK/000244). During the meeting with the National Park officials, it was learned more about the park, its values, and activities that were implemented during the project. Additionally, during the field trip inspected the existing infrastructure for mouflons, consulted on the encountered problems and possible ways to address them. Colleagues from Slovakia shared their experience on maintenance and release of mouflons.

During this visit, there have also been organized meetings with the mouflon breeders in Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia. There were received practical advice from experienced breeders on the needs of animals kept in enclosures, inspected the enclosures (photos - Annexed in Mid-term report). Since Robertas Radavi čius left project manager position in SRPD on 9 th of December 2013, the assigned specialists could not devote enough time to organize the visit. Therefore, it was decided to buy this service externally. The contracted company organized the itinerary for the meeting points, provided the vehicle with a driver, and arranged hotel reservation. Cooperation visit involved three SRPD officers: Director Modestas Še čkus, project manager Asta Bago čien ė and senior officer Andrius Kazlauskas. Seniour. Specialist Simona Benetyt ė Nemuno Kilp ų Regional Park, who had previously lived in Slovakia and had the necessary contact to the visited institutions. Since the project coordinator in KFE Sigitas Kupšys got ill before the journey, Kartena district forester Vytautas Lukauskas was enlisted instead of him. The visit was also joined by tourism operator in Salantai regional park - Gintautas Rusteika. He was concerned in how can pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas can be adapted for tourism based on the experience of other countries.

30 5.1.11. Action E.6 Project audit

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Elaborated audit report of 2016-12-31 2016-12-31 Completed by the project 2017-04-26

Expected results : Verified financial statements provided to the EC in the Final Report and certification that all cost incurred under the Project respect the Common Provisions

Results of action: The audit has been carried out after the end of the project in April of 2017. As announced in the Midterm Report, independent audit by an individual enterprise of V.Tamašauskas who was contracted on 27 th of November 2013. The Auditor verified financial statements provided to the EC in the Final Financial Report and certified that all costs incurred according to the LIFE+ Common Provisions. Audit Report is attached to the current Final Report in Annex 16 .

31 5.2. Dissemination actions

5.2.1 Objectives

The main objectives of the Project dissemination plan were:

- to raise awareness and understanding about nature values and fostering positive attitude to nature conservation and NATURA 2000 network; - to disseminate information as wide as possible, to educate general public and bring positive message about different NATURA 2000 sites; - to reach the public awareness about conservation natural meadows and other open habitats; - to demonstrate the nature values of European conservation concern and appropriate management measures to general public; - to raise the public awareness and promote the public support to the nature conservation in general;

32 5.2.2 Dissemination: overview per activity

5.2.2.1 Action D.1 Construction of observation tower in Šaukli ų riedulynas

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Preparation of technical 2013-06-31 2013-06-30 Completed by project for observation 2013-04-11 tower and other buildings Construction of 2014-06-31 2014-06-30 Completed by observation tower 2014-10-24

Expected results : 40000 visitors will be informed about Natura 2000 network, and LIFE+ best nature management practices

Results of action: In pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas along with construction of observation tower were also foreseen constructions of feeders ( С.4) installation of fence (С.4) and boardwalk for visitors of nature trail. In the Inception Report, SRPD addressed the EC with a request to endorse a single construction project for all infrastructures in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas. Construction projects for observation tower (D.1) boardwalk (D.3). Approval was received in EC letter No. ENV.E3 PC/pl Ares (2012) 1536203 on 20 th of December 2012.

Šaukli ų riedulynas is one of the few tourist attractions in Skuodas district. The closest attraction site is Vaclovas Intas Museum of Rare Stones located in Mos ėdis. As there is no visitor monitoring on a nature trail in Šaukli ų riedulynas, we assume that annually number of visitors is roughly the same as in V. Intas stone museum of 10000-12000 visitors. According to this data, since the construction of observation tower, the territory was visited by 30000- 36000. However, after the coverage received by national press on the mouflon release, we noticed significant increase in visitor numbers. Therefore we are confident that the expected result of 40000 visitors till the end of the project was exceeded.

33

5.2.2.2 Action D.2 Construction of information display boards and information plates

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Erection of notice display 2012-12-31 2012-12-31 Completed by boards 2012-12-27 Update of information in 2016-12-31 2016-12-31 Completed by notice boards 2016-12-31

Expected results : 4 notice boards erected and updated during the project span

Results of action: Notice board in SRPD in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas was erected in May of 2012.

Another 3 notice boards were erected in KRP. The most visited places in the project areas were selected for the boards. 2 boards were erected at pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais in the vicinity of villages Bazilionai and Jusai čiai. Another one was erected at the bridges over the Dubysa river in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos (photos - Annex 17 ) (map - Annexed in Mid-term report). The Boards inform visitors on national and Natura 2000 networks of protected areas, natural values in the territories, gives a review of project activities and sources of funding. None of the display boards were broken during the project and the content of boards was still well preserved. Despite this, in 2016 information display plates on notice boards were updated providing new information on the benefits of the project to the sites.

It is estimated that pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas receive 10000-12000 visitors annually and we assume that the same number of visitors have access to the information of notice boards as it is located next to a nature trail (Annex 18). However, notice boards in KRPD were erected in less visited place. Boards at pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais were mostly accessed by inhabitants of Bazilionai and Jusai čiai villages. And the board at pSCI Vijurk ų pievos was accessed by passers-by. Although monitoring in the territories was not performed, it is estimated that 400 people accessed the information on notice boards in KRPD.

34 5.2.2.3 Action D.3 Construction of wooden footpath in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas

Actions Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Preparation of technical 2013-06-31 2013-06-31 Completed by project for the boardwalk 2013-04-11 (and other buildings) in Šaukli ų riedulynas Construction of 2014-06-31 2014-06-31 Completed by boardwalk 2013-12-31

Expected results : Construction of 300 m of boardwalk in pSCI Šauklių riedulynas

Results of action: The single construction project was prepared for boardwalk and enclosure (C.3) observation tower (D.1) feeders (C.4) in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas.

According to the application, the construction of boardwalk was scheduled to the II quarter of 2014. Thus, it was finished on 31st of December 2013. In total 300 m of wooden boardwalk was built. The boardwalk together with the rest infrastructure is to be handed over to KFE. Property acceptance request and letter of acceptance attached in Annex 9.

35

5.2.2.4 Action D.4 Publishing of project leaflets

Deliverable Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Leaflet in SRPD 2015-06-31 2015-06-31 Completed 2016-01-30 Leaflet in KRPD 2016-06-31 2016-06-31 Paid on 2016-12-22 Received on 2017-02-23

Expected results : information regarding conservation of Natura2000 sites and best agriculture practices will reach about 3000 people. Published material will also focus on LIFE+ programme and restoration and management activities carried out under the programme.

Results of action: Leaflet regarding project activities (Annexed in Progress report No. 2) in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas was published with a slight delay (in January 2016). It was partly due to the wish to have images of mouflons being released in the territory, which could be captured only as early as December 2015. Selection of other pictures and preparation of leaflet text were made before December. The leaflets were printed in 1200 copies. The leaflet looks like a small pocket guide, which helps visitors (both children and adults) actively use it while visiting the site.

500 leaflets in KRPD were also printed out with a slight delay (Annex 19 ). Although the invoices were issued on 22 nd of December 2016 and payment made on 29 th of December, the actual publishing took longer than expected and the printouts were received after the end of the project in 2017.

36 5.2.2.5 Action D.5 Project web page

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Preparing 2 project web 2012-09-30 2012-09-30 Completed pages 2013-03-31

Expected results : Webpages for project activities in SRPD and KRPD developed and visited by 100-700 visitors per week.

Results of action: The website of SRPD project activities in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas is lifeplius.salanturp.lt. Information on the website is constantly updated in both Lithuanian and English languages: uploaded the latest news, pictures as well republished articles related to the project which are brought out in mass media. Since 4th of July 2012 lifeplius.salanturp.lt website recorded 3,427 visits.

KRPD website www.naturaliospievos.lt (the website in 2014 changed hosting server and website address from www.kurtuva.lt/life10. During the development the layout of the website, there was no option to add for promotional banners, therefore the link to SRPD webpage was placed under the category "Partners". The website didn’t have installed visitor counter and at the moment number of visitor is unknown.

Websites are available in Lithuanian and English languages and frequently updated. All the publications, reports and other deliverables and outputs i.e. action plans, monitoring reports, etc. are available on the project website. The websites will be maintained at least 5 years after the end of the project.

37 5.2.2.6 Action D.6 Seminars, conferences, meetings, and dissemination of project activities

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Organization of the first 2012-06-31 2012-10-31 Completed seminar (conference) 2012-12-11 Organization of the second 2013-12-31 2013-12-31 Completed seminar 2014-02-27 2014-10-09 Organization of the third 2015-09-30 2016-05-30 Completed by seminar (conference) 2016-05-20 Organization of the fourth 2016-09-30 2016-09-30 Completed by seminar (conference) 2016-11-17

Expected results : Organize 4 seminars and conferences

Results of action: On 19 th of June 2012 Muriel Drukman via email was asked to postpone the date for the first meeting till the autumn when it more suitable time for local farmers. The approval was received on 19 th of June 2012. • On 12 th of September 2012 was organized the meeting with the community of Šaukliai village (Annexes in Inception Report). The community was introduced to the project and planned activities. 19 participants. • In December of 2012 there was organized conference „Gamtotvarkini ų darb ų įgyvendinimas, žini ų ir patirties sklaida“, 29 participants. (Annexes in Mid-term Report). • In February of 2014 was organized a second meeting with the community of Šaukliai. 15 participants. (Annexes in Mid-term Report). • On 9 th of October 2014 SRPD organized a seminar to present project activities to the members of local municipalities (Annex). In total in the seminar participated 31 representative from AB, members of local communities and officers of Kretinga district municipality. There were discussed LIFE+ programme and its environmental and social benefits. All the participants visited nature trail in pSCI Šaukliai riedulynas. (Annexes in Progress report No. 1) • On 20 th of May 2016 there was organised a final seminar in SRPD which also aimed to commemorate the European Natura 2000 Day. In Šauklių riedulynas the participants of seminar were joined by pupils of Salantai, Ylakiai gymnasiums and Gr ūšlauk ė principal school to take photos of butterfly gesture together and awareness on the importance of Natura 2000 sites. In total there have been 62 participants in this event. Annex 20, Annex 21, Annex 22, Annex 23. • On 17 th of November 2016 there was organised a final seminar in KRPD there were presented implementation and results of the project. The target groups of these events are residents, representatives of Šiauliai district environmental agency, people, who have contributed to the project, and other organizations which are running similar projects. Senior officer Dovil ė Staponkien ė presented implementation of the project in Salantai Regional Park and in Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park by project manager Irma Jazdauskait ė and ecologist Vidmantas Lopeta. Summarizing the results of the project, it was stated that there is observed an obvious positive impact on habitats and species in project areas. 42 participants. Annex 24, Annex 25, Annex 26, Annex 27.

38 5.2.2.7 Action D.7 Preparation of educational program

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Preparation of educational 2015-12-31 2015-12-31 Completed program 2015-04-10 Methodological material 2015-12-31 2016-06-31 Recalled publishing Purchase of drawing board 2015-12-31 2016-06-31 Recalled

Expected results : Preparation of educational program and engaging 60 pupil to nature lectures.

Results of action: The educational program was prepared in spring of 2015. The program is designed to introduce park visitors (students) to the meadows of Dubysa valley, highlight the difference between the cultural, natural and sown grasslands, instruct on identifying native and invasive plant species. Lectures were held in the territory of the project: pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and in neighbouring agricultural fields. Participants could get familiar with different types of grasslands, cultivated fields, and the composition of sown grasslands, as well have the opportunity to watch insects, amphibians, discuss succession processes in grasslands, and explore the invasive plants and their advantages over native species. The program is adapted for primary and secondary school children. At the end of the lectures, participants taste different herbal teas. In total in this program attended by 71 pupils in 2015 - 2016.

A frequent rotation the project manager caused a delay in implementation of this action as well. It was foreseen to purchase the drawing board and printing methodological material for the program (plant identification cards and LoTo puzzles). KRPD purchased high-definition colour printer (outside LIFE project), which was used to print methodological material, therefore the purchase of the board was unnecessary due to changed concept of educational program. During the preparation of project proposal it was planned to have lectures in Jautmalk ė nature centre, however the best place for lectures turned out to be outdoors were different plants can be handpicked in natural habitats. Programme materials are presented in Annex 28.

39 5.2.2.8 Action D.8 Preparation of photo exhibition

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Nature trails with 2016-09-30 2016-09-30 Not started photographers Photos printing and 2016-09-30 2016-09-30 Activity not started framing

Expected results : prepare photograph exposition and exhibit in visitor centre of KRPD for half a year

Results of action: Kurtuv ėnai Regional Park officer from start of the project took photographs of the managed sites. In 2016, began intensive cooperation with the photographers' club Photography House and it was offered for club members to take pictures of the project areas. KRPD undertook the printing of the photography. Photographers gave their permission to use photography free of charge, if the authorship is indicated. In order to attract more members of the club to this activity was announced best picture contest. Park ecologists together with photographers organized 3 trips to the pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilioniais on different seasons. 15 authors submitted their photographs to the Contest commission which was formed of KRPD officers. 50 photographs were selected for exhibition. Opening of the exhibition was held in together with the conference of the LIFE10NAT/NAT/117 project in KRPD in 17th of December 2016. During the opening ceremony authors of the best 3 were rewarded. Photographs of KRPD officer did not participate in the contest they were primarily used in published materials.

This action was implemented with a slight delay which was caused by technical reasons such as selection of best photography for contest and printing. KRPD decided to exceed the budget foreseen in project application the surplus to cover from KRPD funds. Photo exhibition is on display in the main hall of Kurtuv ėnai visitor centre. Since the opening to February of 2017 the exhibition received 470 visitors.

40

5.2.2.9 Action D.9 Preparation and publication of articles

Action Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Prepared and published first 2012-12-31 2012-12-31 Completed article 2012-12-27 Prepared and published 2013-09-30 2014-03-07 Completed second article 2015-03-31 Prepared and published 2014-12-31 2014-12-31 Completed third article 2015-12-31 Prepared and published 2015-12-31 2015-12-31 Completed fourth article Prepared and published fifth 2016-12-31 2016-12-31 Completed article

Expected results : 5 articles on project scope prepared and published

Results of action: In The project application it was foreseen to publish 5 articles in the local and national press: 3 by KRPD and 2 by SRPD. • In 2012 an article was published by KRPD in the daily newspaper of Šiauliai County Šiauli ų kraštas (Annex in Mid-term report). The article with colour photographs and occupied 2 pages of the newspaper. Daily newspaper is printed in 12,000 pcs. and 90% are distributed among subscribers. We estimate that the information was available for at least 10,000 people.

• On 20th March 2015, Vidmantas Lopeta article was published in the largest regional newspaper of Šiauliai County "Šiauliai plus "(Annexed in Progress report No. 2). The published article highlighted the value of grasslands; the threats they are facing and both planned and already implemented project activities. The newspaper is printed in 18,564 pcs.

• In December 2015, SRPD article regarding the project in Šaukli ų riedulynas was published in the journal "Žurnalas apie gamt ą" (Annexed in Progress report No. 2) with a print run of 2,500 pcs. It is the only journal in Lithuania focused on environment and environment protection. This journal can be purchased at most of the newspaper stand. The journal is ordered by the libraries, therefore, it has long-term value and presumably will reach numerous readers.

• In 2016 article by KRPD was published in the weekly distributed newspaper "Žaliasis pasaulis" (Annex 29). Article delivered Kurtuv ėnai Salantai and regional parks, the project. Pursued preserve the values, activities implemented and the results achieved. The newspaper is printed 1435 pcs. weekly, of which 1,300 pcs. are distributed to subscribers. The newspaper is also distributed to Regional Parks, libraries.

• In December of 2016, SRPD article regarding the project in Šaukli ų riedulynas was published in the regional weekly newspaper "Švyturys" (Annex 30). The newspaper is printed 1450 pcs. weekly

41 • Additionally there have been printer articles concerning the project in press and news portals. 4 articles on the project activities have been published in press and 5 articles in news portals. Newspaper or Realise No. and date Article name Beneficiary journal Foreseen articles Daily newspaper No. 300 (6373) Dubysos sl ėniuose KRPD “Šiauli ų kraštas“ 2012-12-27 saugomos nat ūralios pievos Weekly newspaper No. 565 Dubysos sl ėni ų pievos KRPD „Šiauliai plius“ 2015-03-20 atgauna savo „veid ą“ Monthly journal No. 2015.3 (69) Šaukli ų riedulyno SRPD "Žurnalas apie gamt ą" 2015-03 kadagyn ą pad ės priži ūrėti muflonai Weekly regional No. 91 (8801) Įgyvendintas projektas SRPD newspaper „Švyturys“ 2016-12-03 unikaliai teritorijai išsaugoti Weekly newspaper No.43(1029) Regioniniuose KRPD, SRPD „Žaliasis pasaulis“ 2016-12-15 parkuose tvarkomos gamtin ės buvein ės Additional coverage of the project by the press Weekly regional No. 13 (7883); Viduržiem į galvoja KRPD newspaper „Bi čiulis“ 2012-02-15 apie... pievas 2792 pcs Journal Miškai No. 9 Poledynme čio reliktai SRPD 2500 pcs. monthly 2012-09 atgauna viet ą po saule Weekly regional 2014-03-07 Darbai Šaukli ų SRPD newspaper “M ūsų riedulyne žodis” 3500 pcs. Journal of culture and No. 2(5) Dubysos aukštupio KRPD history “Padubysio 2015 sl ėni ų pievos kronikos” Additional coverage of the project by news portals Žurnalas „Veidas“ Nr. 32; Paradoksas: juos vis KRPD 2012-08-6 to12 labiau saugo, o jie vis labiau nyksta www.grynas.lt 2012-09-20 Kadagyn ų apsaugai - SRPD muflon ų kaimen ė http://lzinios.lt 2013-07-30 Draustiniui saugoti SRPD pirks kaln ų avinus www.grynas.lt 2015-04-01 Vienos gražiausi ų upi ų KRPD pakrant ės neatpaž įstamai pakeis savo veid ą www.grynas.lt 2015-12-04 Unikalioje Lietuvos SRPD vietov ėje įkurdinti kaln ų gali ūnai http://lzinios.lt 2015-12-05 Žemai čių tundr ą SRPD

42 priži ūri kaln ų avinai

43

5.2.2.10 Action D.10 Preparation of Layman's report

Deliverable Original deadline Revised deadline Implementation status Preparation and 2016-12-31 2016-12-31 Completed by publishing of Layman's report

Expected results : Layman report 5-10 pages printed in 1000 copies in Lithuanian and English languages

Results of action: Layman report published 5-10 pages 1000 copies Lithuanian and English languages in the same book. It describes project’s activities, the main results and achievements. The book is added to the report (Annex 31). After the publishing of Layman’s report, comments on a few drawbacks of were received from the monitoring team. Therefore, the layout of Layman’s report was updated and currently published online. To reach the foreseen target group was prepared additional dissemination plan, which is attached as Annex 32.

44 5.3 Evaluation of Project Implementation

In all three Natura2000 sites have been applied the best available practice and methods from previous LIFE+ projects. From the financial perspective, KRPD chose the option to purchase equipment and use staff of the Directorate to manage sites. While alternatively, SRPD used external assistance for removal of self-seeded shrubs and fencing of territory. From the available experience, it is clear that the purchase removal shrubs require is costly and results are short-termed. Purchase of machinery requires large initial investment but this secures a management of the territory on a long-term. This also enables to undertake management of other territories of natural value. Project partners that purchased machinery as well employ mechanical personnel. Therefore maintenance costs were minimised and only fuel and spare parts are required to secure further management the sites. However, during removal of bushes and installing fencing KRPD faced lack of capacity, practical knowledge or limited access or machinery to the sites. In those cases it was more efficient to purchase external services.

Task Foreseen in the Achieved Evaluation revised proposal Restore and Restored and Restored and The restored and managed maintain the open managed 110 ha of managed 98 ha of area was 12 ha smaller than habitats with their open habitats of open habitats of foreseen in application. typical structure Community interest, Community However, due to the and species including priority interest, including implemented management composition, habitats: 6230* priority habitats: measures and thorough improve and Species-rich Nardus Species-rich inventory of habitats, maintain the grasslands, on Nardus grasslands, priority habitats increased existing siliceous substrates on siliceous more than expected 6230* conditions and in mountain areas - substrates in by 2 ha and 6120* by 1.14 conservation 2 ha, 6120* Xeric mountain areas - 4 ha status sand calcareous ha, Xeric sand grasslands - 0.3 ha. calcareous grasslands – 1.44 ha. Create conditions - Self-seed trees and - Self-seed trees According to the developed for grazing by scrubs removed and scrubs removed management plans during cutting and from 98 ha of open from 80.3 ha of the project. Self-seed trees removing low habitats, open habitats and scrubs were removed value shrubs and - Installed 2500 m - Installed 2820 m in 18 ha smaller area. It trees, ensure of fence and 5000 m of fence and 5000 became clear that is very further habitat of portable electric m of permanent hard to predict the maintenance fence, electric fence, necessary management - Purchased 20 - Purchased 20 areas even using the latest mouflons and 10 mouflons and 10 data. Comprehensive harsh winter harsh winter management plans are resistant beef cattle resistant beef cattle essential to have proper -3 feeders, 1 winter -3 feeders, 1 winter management measure in shed. shed and 5 covered place in well-defined mangers. habitats. Set the conditions - 4 seminars, - 5 seminars and All the objectives were for public to learn - 3 project meetings, reached. Additional about habitats of brochures and - 3 project coverage has been received

45 NATURA 2000 leaflets, brochures and by inviting different media areas and their - project webpage, leaflets, to various events. However, protection - prepared - 2 project this does not guarantee that methods and educational program webpages all the necessary links are measures for pupil - prepared given project and LIFE - 5 articles on educational programme. Therefore, the project scope in program for pupil foreseen publishing of regional and - 5 articles on articles was essential to national press project scope on meet requirements - 4 notice boards, regional and dissemination materials. - 2 pairs of staircase national press over enclosure, - additional - observation tower, coverage in 4 -300 m of articles in press and boardwalk 5 articles in news - Organized photo portals contest-exhibition - 4 notice boards, - 2 pairs of staircase over enclosure, - observation tower - 300 m of boardwalk - Organized photo contest-exhibition

Cutting down self-seeded bushes and trees (C.1) opened the landscape that led to restoration and immediate improvement of habitat conservation status. The management measure led to habitat improvement, although improvement the in grazed areas was not that well pronounced. It has to be taken into consideration that restoration of typical habitat structure takes time and is to be achieved in 2-3 years after the project After the first two years of beef cattle grazing (C.5) and mowing (C.2) of pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais the areas occupied by habitats have increased from 32.14 ha to 50.78 ha.

The improvement of habitat status is much more visible in KRP than in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas. This is mostly due to difference in implementation periods of actual management measures. The release of mouflons was delayed and the size of the herd still did not reach the numbers that would have significant impact on the area. Nevertheless, mouflons are still considered as the most appropriate species to graze this specific site. Sheep and goat could have been alternative to mouflons. Thus, cattle herd require more care and none of the local farmers expressed a wish to participate in the project (district is dominated by dairy cattle and crop cultivation). Construction of bridges also has positive effect on pSCI Vijurk ų pievos. At the moment, it is possible for machinery to access the territory; therefore, land owners have possibility to mow the grasslands. Currently, 4.7 ha of the site is managed by land owners. The bridges are as well used by farmers who own the land next to Natura 2000 site.

In order to raise awareness of the project activities there have been implemented all of the project dissemination actions. The most effective communication tools were press articles as they have reached the largest public. Unexpectedly, release of mouflons received a lot of additional press coverage by local and national press and the Internet portal. Tourism infrastructure and notice board in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas also reached large number of

46 visitors. This was one of the most visited sites in SRP and it has further increased its value as tourist attraction. This is due to both new infrastructure and released mouflons. Project websites lifeplius.salanturp.lt and naturaliospievos.lt can be named as major drawback. They were visited by fewer people than expected. The most probable explanation of low popularity of webpages that none of the park officers have experience in public relations and didn’t succeed to keep visitors interest in habitat management and related issues. However, websites will be maintained at least 5 years after the end of the project, so it is likely that their attendance will increase. At the moment just a fraction of published leaflets are distributed, it is expected to be done in first year after the finish of project and dissemination activities will be carried after the project.

5.4 Analysis of long-term benefits

Environmental benefits

Direct / quantitative environmental benefits: • Nature management plan for Natura 2000 site (Dubysos sl ėnis ties Bazilionais) prepared, approved and is operational. • The inventory of species and habitats during the preparation of for pSCI Dubysos sl ėnis ties Bazilionais revealed that some habitats of Community interest do not fall within the current pSCI. Current Nature management plan recommends include these areas into pSCI Dubysos sl ėnis ties Bazilionais • 80.3 ha of 4030 European dry heaths, 5130 Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands, 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas, in Continental Europe), 6410 Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils ( Molinion caeruleae ), 2330 Inland dunes with open Corynephorus and Agrostis grasslands, 6120* Xeric sand calcareous grasslands, 6210 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates ( Festuco-Brometalia ), 6270* Fennoscandian lowland species-rich dry to mesic grasslands, 6430 Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels, 6450 Northern boreal alluvial meadows and 6510 Lowland hay meadows ( Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis ) restored. • Area of 6230* Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas increased to 4 ha • Area of 6120* Xeric sand calcareous grasslands increased to 1.44 ha • Channelling tourism in one Natura 2000 site ( pSCIŠaukli ų riedulynas). • Longterm management measures implemented in 3 Natura 2000 sites. • Habitat conditions in one locality of Lycaenia dispar (species code: 1061) improved. • Habitat conditions in one locality of Dysticus latissimus (species code: 4030) improved.

On the basis of gained experience KRPD and Gražut ė Regional Park initiated a development of a strategic document "Program of open habitat restoration and maintenance of good

47 conservation status in Gražut ė and Kurtuv ėnai and regional parks” which was approved by the director of State Service for Protected Areas on 31st of October 2016by order No. 186. The program emphasizes open habitats, provided necessary management measures and possible sources of funding. It also makes recommendations for to what specific financial support can claim each landowner under the Rural Development Program. As well as provide measures that should be integrated in Forest management documents. The pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas is a state-owned forest land. The management of this state- owned land is entrusted to KFE. In 2017, were elaborated new Forest management plan. Almost all of the pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas territory was included in the list of forest glades which are protected from overgrowing by trees and bushes. KFE holds FSC certificate, therefore it is obliged to carry out nature management measures in part of the entrusted forest land. Nature Management Plan expired on 9th of January 2017.Currently, SRP management plan is being prepared, under which will be provided management measures for pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas. All the listed documents guarantee protection of the territory from overgrowth, plowing or other activities that could pose a threat to the habitats.

Relevance for environmentally significant issues or policy areas: All of the project activities were implemented in compliance with the EU habitats Directive and in view of the Ramsar (1975), Berne (1982), Bonn (1983) and Florence (2000) Conventions, and the national laws, such as the Law on Environmental Protection and the Law on Protected Areas, as well as related secondary legislation. The results of the project are consistent with the 1st priority objective of 7th EU Environment Action Programme, i.e.: To protect, conserve and enhance the Union’s natural capital. The results of the project contributes to the EU Green Infrastructure Strategy, 'to promote the deployment of green infrastructure in the EU in urban and rural areas', as well as implementing the EU 2020 Biodiversity Strategy and specifically Target 2 that requires that 'by 2020, ecosystems and their services are maintained and enhanced by establishing green infrastructure and restoring at least 15% of degraded ecosystems.

Long-term benefits and sustainability Major threats of targeted habitats were overgrowing, losing the characteristic values and with high need of large-scale restoration efforts. The purchased equipment and developed infrastructure during the project directly contribute to restoration and securing long-term management of habitats. Upon completion of the project, it is foreseen to carry out maintenance and further improvement of habitats.

Long-term / qualitative economic benefits: In pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas mouflon grazing was selected as a most appropriate measure. Mouflons do not require as much care as cattle and their diet consists of both grass and shrubs. There is a risk that the herd can grow slower than expected, as mouflon lambs are easy prey for foxes and other predators. Regular inspection of the fence is to be carried to prevent escape of lambs or possible incursion of predators. After the transfer of herd to KFE all the maintenance will be done by appointed specialists, in turn with SRPD officers will keep track on the herd and grazing in this Natura2000 site. It is planned to install video cameras to monitor mouflons and visitor behaviour in an enclosure using financing from Environmental Protection Programme of

48 Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania. Till mouflon herd reaches sufficient size, offshoots and shrubs will be removed once in a 1-2 years using Environmental Protection Programme or KFE funds. If the number of mouflons will increase at a slower pace than expected, the herd will be increased by purchasing additional animals by KFE. (Annex 15 After-LIFE conservation plan).

Angus breed of cattle were purchased to maintain open habitats in areas that are not accessible by machinery in KRPD. This breed was selected due to endurance and adaptation to different types of ecosystems. This breed is not picky for feed and gain weight quicker than some other extensive beef cattle breeds. Because of these physiological properties, Angus is considered medium extensive breed. These properties of Angus cattle allow receiving the economic benefits quicker and reducing the expenses necessary to feed intensive beef cattle breeds. Currently, 15 Cattle herd is owned by KRPD which is still too small to fully graze two Natura2000 sites. Therefore, KRPD plans to keep the heifers until the herd will reach 20 cows size. Angus bulls are going to be annually exchanged with other Angus breeders to have a different hold and unrelated sires. The first exchange has already taken place in 2016. Some bulls is going to be sold for breeding, since KRPD do have not enough infrastructure to keep them separated from the herd. The funds received will be used for livestock expenses: veterinary care, insurance. Due to of the lack of infrastructure KRPD will not be able keep bulls to full maturity, when carried out pedigree evaluation and it is not possible to sell bulls at maximum price.

Long-term / qualitative social benefits: The infrastructure developed during Project implementation in SRP (observation tower, mouflon enclosure, and boardwalk) will help to attract more visitors to this remote region, offering opportunity to sell local products and services. Therefore, the additional profit to local entrepreneurs could give positive impact to regional development. The area already had a nature trail on the site. However, the newly installed tourism infrastructure resulted in higher surplus of visitors to the area and in whole region.

Continuation of the project actions by the beneficiary or by other stakeholders: Šaukli ų riedulynas is one of the few tourist attractions in SRP. The chance to see released mouflons attracts even more visitors to the site. Since 2015 State Service for Protected Areas introduced voluntary visitor ticket for park visitors. Collected fees can be used for upgrade or construction infrastructure, publishing educational and dissemination material. Therefore these funds will be available for maintenance of tourism infrastructure in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas. After the herd reaches its limit in the enclosure, it will be necessary to decrease the number of mouflons by selling them to other operators. This will help to raise the necessary funds for maintenance of the enclosure.

Some of Angus bulls will be sold, as KRPD do not own infrastructure to keep bulls separated from the herd. The funds received will be used to cover livestock maintenance expenses: veterinary services, insurance. As KRPD lack infrastructure to raise bulls to full maturity, when pedigree evaluation is carried out and can receive maximum profit from their sale, KRPD plan to introduce the following cooperation scheme with farmers: the herd will be

49 given free of charge to the farmer for the contractual period, during which the farmer will be obliged to graze project areas. All the calves will go to farmers free of charge, but the herd will remain KRPD property. At the end of the contract, the herd will be transferred to another farmer under the same contract. Thus, KRPD will avoid expenses related to cattle grazing. The farmer will be able to form own cattle herds. However, the increase of herd is not as quick as expected. Till the herd will reach the targeted size KRPD will graze the sites and take care of livestock. Additional funds for cattle and related infrastructure maintenance is going to be receiving not only from the sale of bulls, but also get support beef cattle from Rural Development Programme. In pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais and pSCI Vijurk ų pievos most of lands are privately owned. State-owned land in pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais is only 17.4 % and in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos – 42.07%. Both sites have approved Nature Management plans. Also pSCI fall within Vijurkai geomorphological nature reserve, therefore there are valid state reserve restrictions. After the implemented actions the territories comply with the requirements for managed agricultural land and can be declared to receive support from the Rural Development Program.

Replicability: Although similar nature management methods have been used throughout LIFE+ projects in other member states and Lithuania, still few Park-reserve authorities use livestock to preserve open habitats. In case of need, gained experience can be applied in the network of protected areas under State Service for Protected Areas. The created educational program is ready to use tool for education of pupil.

Transferability: This is first LIFE+ Project in Lithuania where the coordinating beneficiary is Regional Park. Therefore, this Project can be considered as pilot in the national network of protected areas. It highlighted major hurdles that Park-reserve authorities face on the course of the Project, i.e. lack of funding sources available due to tight annual budgets and prohibition for governmental institution to borrow money, lack of human resources and lack of the necessary experience. The overcoming highlighted obstacles would increase capacity of Lithuania’s public bodies to submit quality applications for funding under LIFE+ or other programmes. KRPD experience of beef cattle grazing was transferred to Gražut ė Regional Park. Gražut ė Regional Park used best practice of KRPD and in 2016 acquired a herd of Angus cattle herd for management of open habitats. After the implementation of project in Gražut ė Regional Park it is expected a positive impact on habitats and verification of suitability of this management method for solving habitat degradation on a national scale.

Demonstration: Project importance in demonstration aspect was improved ecological stability of landscape and contribution to the preservation of its structure. The infrastructure developed within the Project sites will also serve as a good example of work to increase public interest management of environment.

50 Cooperation: In the framework of the project was developed cooperation with National park Slovensky raj. (No. LIFE04 NAT/SK/000244 Conservation of Habitat Diversity in Slovensky raj National Park). Before the purchase and grazing of cattle, former LIFE+ projects in Lithuanian (WETLIFE LIFE07 NAT/LT/530) and Latvian (LIFE02 NAT/LV/008496 Conservation of wetlands in Kemeri. National Park) were consulted on issues related livestock maintenance.

Best Practice lessons

The best practice lesson learnt, is foreseeing the access for visitors to mouflon enclose. This not only eliminated any negative attitude of the local community but also increased the touristic attractiveness of the territory. As a result, visitors and local community can access site and keep track of improving the landscape and general status of habitats. Another best lesson was a reconstruction of bridges. Constructed bridges not only secured Access the sites for Project equipment but local farmers started to manage previously abandoned lands.

Innovation and demonstration value

The purpose of the Project was to equip best available knowledge on the management of inaccessible sites. Therefore, the Project was based on the best experience of former LIFE+ Projects. This Project sets an example for the management of open habitat and possible usage of LIFE+ programme funding in the network of State Service for Protected Areas. The prepared educational programme for outdoor lessons is also of demonstration value as State Service for Protected Areas has launched Nature schools under EEA funded project „Development of ecological education at the administrations of protected areas”. Furthermore, project staff and external experts participated in several seminars and events to share the experience. All the developed material for educational program will be published online. And everyone interested will be able to download it and while visiting sites.

Long term indicators of the project success

To assess project success in SRP and KRP, annual monitoring of habitats will be ensured by SRPD and KRPD officers. The status of habitats should be defined by habitat area and both presence and abundance of common and indicator species. The target is to maintain the habitats status and size that was reached at the end of the project. Detailed information about continuation of the project actions was included in the After-LIFE Conservation Plan ( Annex 15 ).

51 6. Comments on the financial report

6.1. Summary of Costs Incurred

PROJECT COSTS INCURRED

Cost category Budget according to the Costs incurred within %** grant agreement* the project duration 1. Personnel € 102,094.00 € 66,854.01 65% 2. Travel € 3,649.00 € 3,421.86 94% 3. External assistance € 56,606.00 € 64,758.51 114% 4. Durables: total non- 102% depreciated cost € 432,049.60 € 440,370.00 - Infrastructure sub- 104% € 266,486.02 € 278,410.86 tot. - Equipment sub-tot. € 165,563.58 € 161,959.14 98% 5. Consumables € 23,163.40 € 13,922.36 60% 6. Other costs € 13,477.00 € 6,908.35 51% 7. Overheads € 0.00 € 38,757.69 - TOTAL € 631,039.00 € 634,992.78 101% *) The Commission has officially approved a budget modification on 11 th of November 2016. The revised budget indicated in the breakdown costs on amendment data. **) Calculate the percentages by budget lines: e.g. the % of the budgeted personnel costs that were actually incurred

General comments on budget categories:

In 7 th of September 2016 was sent a request for project amendment which was approved on 11 th of November 2016. In total 101% of planned budget was spent. All the cost categories are either overspent or underspent. However, none of cost categories reached the threshold of 10% and 30 000 €. Expenditures have increased in external assistance and durables cost categories. Expenditures in the rest of categories decreased with other cost category decreasing more than 50%.

Personnel: 66% used, 35,239.99 € less than in original budget It has smaller consumption among budget categories due to absence of technical and financial administrators SRPD and KRPD and worker that had to be employed to care of mouflons. Main factor contributing to underspending is lower daily rate than those foreseen in the project application.

All personnel were specifically seconded for the project by appropriate beneficiary directors’ orders to work for the project. The orders indicate how much time must be dedicated to the project per employee.

52 Calculation of Personnel costs

Personnel costs are calculated on the basis of the annual gross salary of each project employee received in the coordinating and associated beneficiaries. The calculation of real annual gross salary is based on the salary slip from permanent staff. Salary slip indicates 2 amounts: a salary of the employee 100% (income tax and social charges are paid out from this amount) + social contribution of the employer 30.98 %

Time sheets

The actual worked time has been registered in Time sheets. The calculation of annual working hours is based on the time sheets, which are monthly filled in. Time sheets indicate when the project staff has worked, how many hours the staff has worked and the staff has had day-off, public and annual holiday and was sick.

Daily rates

The hourly rate for the permanent staff is calculated by dividing the real annual gross salary by amount of real annual working hours. Daily rate is normally calculated hourly rate multiplied x8 hours (8 hours is a normal working day).

SRPD: actually incurred salary rates are below the foreseen rates of personnel.

KRPD: Part of foreseen rates of personnel is equal or the same or slightly below the incurred salary rates (local manager). Only local ecologist he rate because this specialist has a higher qualification. The local accountant was not foreseen.

KFE: incurred salary rates were higher that foreseen due to the specifics of the employment contracts the salary rates are recalculated every year and depend on economic indicators of the enterprise.

Travel: 3,421.86 € spent, 94% used CB saved 53.14 € on the trip to visit LIFE Nature project area and CB of this project in Slovakia. The cost of organization of the trip by individual enterprise Travel Fiesta and compensation for travel expenses (calculated according travel rules are set by Lithuanian Government act No. 99 of 28-01-2003) was smaller than anticipated. KRPD did not use the foreseen budget of 174 € for transportation of conference participants to the project area.

External assistance: 64.758.51 € spent, 114% used

A.1 The price for the management plans preparation service has increased from 3,475 € to €10,513.21 €.

C.1 CB purchased this activity for 36,413.48 € from planned 42,748 € and saved 6,334.52 €.

53 C.3 In Inception report EC was addressed with a request to endorse a single construction project for fencing and other structures in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas. After examination of market prices, it turned out that the total cost for construction projects for feeders ( С.4) observation tower (D.1) boardwalk (D.3) was 17300 €, and purchasing a single construction project reduced the cost down to around 8700 €. The request was approved in EC letter No. ENV.E3 PC/pl Ares (2012) 1536203 on 20 th of December 2012.

Before releasing cattle KRPD had urgently to fence 3 ha of vegetation in northern part of BAST Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais. The landowner did not allow using machinery in the area due to waterlogged soil. Therefore, for the implementation of this activity SP Girinink ų projektai were contracted. In Progress report No 1 it was asked to cover these cost (1000 €) from saved budget on purchase (cost category “Equipment”).

In 2016 KRPD decided to accomplish fencing of the grazing areas by using savings in Consumables cost category.

C.4 Unforeseen costs of 31.05 € incurred for autopsy and disposal of mouflon female carrion.

C.5 For the preparation of cattle shed design project there was saved 168.12 € (foreseen cost 869 € actual cost 700.88 €). However, the purchased cattle had to be vaccinated at the end of 2014. These and later livestock veterinary services accounted for 264 €. There was also unforeseen cost for bull transportation. In total for this activity was spent 339.67 € more (1,040.55 €).

C.6 During the preparation of bridge reconstruction design it became clear the reconstructions fall under a category of heavy-duty constructions according to a national legislative system and are under strict construction requirements. Consequently, the prise for preparation of design, technical and construction work supervision increased from initially planned 4812 € to 10,846.34 €

Durable goods

Infrastructure: 278,410.86 € spent, 104% used

C.3 On installation of fence in Šaukli ų riedulynas and stairs over enclosure was saved 6,243.83 € (foreseen 96,733€, spent 90489.17 €)

C.4 For the construction of feeders and covered mangers there were spent 23,731.11 € and the initially foreseen costs was 10,861 € (spent 12,870.11 € more).

C.5 On the construction of cattle shed was saved 4,184.25 € from initially foreseen 6,371 €.

C.6

54 In total the construction cost for the bridge and pipe culvert in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos was 88,276.84 €. Initially these costs were put under the budget category “Other costs”. However, on 31 st of December 2016 Amendment to the Grant Agreement was issued and foreseen budget of 38,681 € for bridges were re-classified to “Infrastructure” costs category. Due to unexpected complexity of construction works it was spend 49,595.84 € more than planned.

D.1 For construction of observation tower it was spent 283.14 € than the foreseen budget of 9,369 €.

D.2 KRPD budget for notice boards form “Consumables” cost category was reclassified to “Infrastructure”. In total it was spent 3,961 € and correspond to 54.17 € of savings from foreseen budget of 4,015.17 €.

D.3 This activity included preparation of single construction project for fencing and other infrastructure in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas and construction of boardwalk. Despite additional cost, it was saved 18,671.96 € form planned budget of 57,924 €.

Equipment: 161.959,14 € spent, 98% used

C.1 For the implementation of project actions and management of the project areas in KRPD application provided the purchase of tractors with the necessary attachments accessories (flail mower, mower, wheel rake, baler). First of all in 2012, it was decided to buy a tractor and mulchers, and the other accessories purchase in accordance with the application timetable. During purchase process the technical requirements for tractor have been changed, as it was decided to obtain a less powerful, but more suitable for management of alluvial meadows tractor. A lightweight tractor has less pressure on the soil and does not damage sward. There was also bought compactible mulcher. Due to changed technical requirements the tractor and mulcher were purchased at the price of 48,185.53 €, therefore it was saved 17,802.47 € for the tractor.

For the management of pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas and maintenance of mouflon herd KFE procured tractor (30,326.33 €) for management Šaukli ų riedulynas and maintenance mouflon herd. The tractor was purchased on 15th of November 2012.

In total for both tractors and frail mover it was spent 78,511.86 € from planed 112,327 € and was saved 33,815.14 €.

C.2 There was purchased round baler and wheel raker and mower foreseen in the application was not purchased as it was received from the State Service for Protected Areas. For equipment of this activity was spent 18,303.99 € from planed 27,931€ (saved 9,627.01 €)

C.4 SRPD have faced a problem with the insufficient mouflon purchase budget foreseen in the application. During, the preparation of application in 2010 has been investigating the market and an average price reported for one mouflon was182 €. However in the course of the

55 project, before the purchase of mouflons, investigation of market price revealed that an average price of one mouflon increased to 434 €. The project budget allocated 3,649 €for mouflons, but market price for 20 mouflon herd turned out to be as much as 8,688 €. EC was addressed regarding this issue in the Inception Report which approved the allocation of 5,093 € from C.3 activities, from fence construction in pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas (“Infrastructure” cost category) to “Equipment” cost category.

SRP a tractor trailer necessary to transport feed in winter time i.e. grain, vegetables and hay was not foreseen in the application. Therefore, SRPD requested EC to approve purchase of trailer from saved tractor budget (from saving of € 9644.14). The approval has been received by EC letter (No. ENV.E3 PC/pl Ares (2012) 1536203 on 20 th of December 2012. Following restricted tender procedure KFE acquired trailer from JSC Galuotas for 7,240.5 € in 26 th of August 2014.

Due to the listed factors the cost of equipment for C.4 activity increase by 9,469.54 € to 13,118.54 €

C.5

For the veterinary services there was purchased cattle locking stall (2,102.64 €), which was not foreseen in the project application. EC approval was received 02.07.2015 EK Letter No. ENVE3 LB/TS/ip Ares (2015)2782477)

During the project, it turned out the frail mower cannot be transported while attached to the tractor as it can damage the tractor's hydraulic suspension system. Therefore, in the Inception report there had been requested permission to use saved budget from tractor and flail mower for purchase of transportation trailer. Such approval was received in EC letter No. ENV.E3 PC/pl ARES (2012) 1536203 on 20 th of December 2012. However, later on the trailer turned out unnecessary as the managing authority - the State Service for Protected Areas.

Despite unforeseen costs, there was spend 42,524.82 € and saved 2,366.18 €

Consumables: € 13,922.36 €, 60% used

C.1 All the fuel for the KRPD activities was listed under the project management in KRPD (E.2) activity; therefore EC was requested to approve the redistribution of expenses for fuel among other activities. For fuel of this activity it was spent 927.07 €.

While exploiting the flail mower there has occurred unexpected exploitation costs. While mowing degraded grasslands flails quickly lose sharpness and frequent sharping makes wear them out. Therefore, it was asked in Progress report No. 1 to include these expenses into consumables cost category and use saved budget from tractor purchase.

KRPD cut down woody vegetation and removed it in a bigger area than provided in Management Plans, thus, smaller that foreseen in project application. Consequently, there are saved 1,700 € of the budget for the fuel.

56 C.2 For fuel and net wrap it was spent 3,887.17 €.

C.3 For fencing of cattle in KRPD it was foreseen 2,671 €, however, it was spent 471.95 € more (3142.95 €).

C.4 As mouflons were released quite late and the winter was light it was spend only 231.56 € for supplements and fuel form planed 5,792 €.

C.5 For fuel it was spent 238.32 €

D.2 It was purchased 3 updated plates for the project notice boards in KRPD for 210 €.

D.6 Cost of catering services for the conference were 201.25 € and were saved 15.75 € for this action.

D.7 There were found alternatives for consumables of educational programme, therefore it was saved all foreseen budget for consumables of this activity (783 €)

D.8 On printing of photographs for the contest it was spent 729.00 € and exceeds the planed cost by 150 €.

E.2 For the management of the Project in KRPD it was spent 986.15 € from the foreseen 13485.85 €

E.3 For the management of the Project in SRPD it was spent 3,318.83 € from the foreseen 6,308 € (2,989.17 € less)

Other costs: 6,908.35 €, 51% used

C.5 In 2015, from savings on purchase of livestock trailer it was purchased insurance for 819.48 €.

C.6 There paid various fees related to construction of the bridges, which were not foreseen in the project application (256.32 € spent).

D.4

57 For publishing Project materials and tenders’ information it was spent 1,016.81 €, 50.81 € more than initially planned.

D.6 For the catering services of seminars and meetings in SPD it was paid 1,158.48 €, that was - 1,304.52 € less than planed.

D.9 For article publishing there was spent 2,990.55 € from foreseen 7,226 € (4235.45 € less).

D.10 For publishing of Layman‘s report was spent 666.71€ from foreseen 2.769 € (2102.29 €).

E.2 The sticker with the LIFE and Natura2000 logos were not printed as they were received form EC (53 € saved).

Overheads: initially unforeseen, 38.757,69 € used

Despite these costs were not foreseen in the project application, CB and Abs was not able to avoid office maintenance costs on the course of project. For calculation of overheads in KRPD and SRPD was flat rate of 7% applied. KFE overhead costs were.

6.2. Accounting system SRPD, KRPD and KFE are public bodies. Therefore the accounting system is based on the Accounting Law (approved by the Parliament of the LR, 18-12- 2003 No.IX-574), Law on Accountability of Public Sector (approved by the Parliament of the LR, 06-06-2007 , No.77- 3046), using standard accountability procedures. Internally the accountability is based on the rules and orders of the directors. Beneficiaries use accounting softwares. SRPD used "STEK" in 2011-2012, from 2013 onwards they use "Profit-W ®SQLVRP and KRPD use accounting software “EDRANA” and KFE used “STEK” in 2011-2014, from 2015 onwards EUROSKAITA. SRPD registered expenses under programme called “Life projektas” financing source No.30 (EU financed). KRPD registered expenses under programme called “LIFE projektas” financing source No.30 (EU financed). KFE registered expenses under code 6232 in „STEK“software and 64032 in EUROSKAITA.

6.3. Partnership arrangements

Partnership agreements were signed with 2 associated beneficiaries (Annexed in Inception report). SRPD did financial transactions according to the time schedule of the agreement after submission of the payment request/approval of the financial report of the associated beneficiary. Financial reporting was requested before compilation of every project report All ABs contributed financially to the project to the extent as indicated in the project original budget. However, up until the compilation of final report there have been left a technical mistake in the FC form of the Grant agreement. In in accordance with the Partnership agreement with SRPD, KFE covered 100% of their costs and the Grant agreement and do not request any of EC co-financing as initially foreseen. Therefore, the received payment will be distributed between SRPD and KRPD in proportion to the eligible cost of beneficiaries, as well securing foreseen financial contribution and avoiding profit situation to any of beneficiaries.

58 6.4. Auditor's report/declaration The audit was performed by private by individual auditor enterprise of V.Tamašauskas who was contracted on 27 November 2013. The audit report is attached in the annex 16. The audit was performed using the LIFE audit guidelines and following the format of the standard audit.

6.5 Summary of costs per action

1. 2. 3. 4.a 4.b 4.c 5. 6. 7. TOTAL Action Short name of Personnel Travel and External Infra- Equipment Prototype Purchase Consumables Other no. action subsistence assistance structure or lease of costs land

Management A.1 0 0 10.513,21 0 0 0 0 0 0 10.513,21 Plan Removal of C.1 0 0 36.413,48 0 78.511,86 0 0 927,07 0 115.852,41 shrubs

C.2 Mowing 0 0 0 0 18.303,99 0 0 3.887,19 0 22.191,17

C.3 Fencing 0 0 1.000 90.489,17 0 0 0 3.142,95 0 94.632,12

Mouflons C.4 0 0 31,05 23.731,11 13.118,54 0 0 231,56 0 37.112,26 grazing

C.5 Cattle grazing 0 0 1.076,58 17.142,35 42.524,82 0 0 288,38 819,48 61.851,61

Reconstruction C.6 0 0 10.951,34 88.276,84 0 0 0 0 256 99.484,50 of bridges Observation D.1 0 0 0 9.085,86 0 0 0 0 0 9.085,86 tower

D.2 Notice boards 0 0 0 4.015,17 0 0 0 210,00 0 4.225,17

D.3 Boardwalk 0 0 0 45.670,36 0 0 0 0 0 45.670,36

D.4 Leaflets 0 0 102,85 0 0 0 0 0 1.016,81 1.119,66

D.5 Websites 0 0 1.220,57 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.220,57

Conferences D.6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 201,25 1.158,48 1.359,73 and seminars Educational D.7 222,67 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 222,67 program Photography D.8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 729 0 729,00 exposition Publishing of D.9 131,70 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.990,55 3.122,25 articles Layman's D.10 0 0 237,14 0 0 0 0 0 667 903,85 report

E.1 Monitoring 3.764,43 0 1.292,90 0 9.362,37 0 0 0 0 14.419,70

Management E.2 23.348,25 0 19 0 137,57 0 0 986,15 0 24.491,37 in KRPD Management E.3 39.386,96 0 0 0 0 0 0 3.318,83 0 42.705,79 in SRPD

E.4 After-LIFE plan 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0,00

Networking E.5 0 3.421,86 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3.421,86 visit

E.6 Audit 0 0 1.900,00 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.900,00

Over- 38.757,69 heads

TOTAL 66.854,01 3.421,86 64.758,51 278.410,86 161.959,14 0,00 0,00 13.922,36 6.908,35 634.992,78

59 Comments on discrepancies between actions

A.1 – Overspent 7,038.21 € due to much higher price for preparation services of Nature Management Plan for pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais LTSIA0007 than initially foreseen. C.1 – 32,222.59 € spent less. The activity was carried out in a smaller area than initially planned. The plan was to carry out this activity in the area of 98 ha: 58 ha in KRPD and 40 ha in SRPD. Thus, trees and shrubs were removed from the area of 80.3 ha: 37.3 ha in KRPD and 43 ha in SRPD. Reduction in area – 17.7 ha. C.2 – 5,739.83 € spent less. Activity carried out in a smaller area than initially planned. The area was adjusted according to the prepared management plans. The managed area decreased from 70 ha to 57.1 ha. Reduction in area – 12.9 ha. C.3 – 4,771.88 spent less. Cost of fencing in SRPD was less than foreseen. C.4 – Overspent by 16,810.26 €, mainly due installation of 2 feeders herewith 5 additional covered mangers (23,731.11 €) and purchase of trailer for feed transportation (8 761 €) as well as the increase mouflon price by 2,229.04 €. C.5 – Overspent 9,720.61 € due to cattle winter enclosure with shed and feeders (17,142.35 €) and unforeseen insurance costs for the herd (819.48 €). C.6 – Overspent 56,041.50 € due to the state of new bridges had to be rebuilt. Increase in complexity and subsequently increased cost for preparation of technical project and construction of a bridge over the Dubysa River. D.1 – 283.14 € spent less. The expected price for observation tower was slightly smaller. D.2 – 128.83 € spent less as the layouts of notice board were prepared by project staff. D.3 – 12,253.64 spent less. Cost for boardwalk construction in SRPD was less than foreseen. D.4 – 0.34 € spent less. Deviation from planned cost is insignificant. D.5 – 227.43 € spent less. The Project website in KRPD till 2014 was hosted in KRPD server and placed in KRPD website. D.6 – 1,494.27 € spent less. The catering cost for the events were smaller than anticipated. D.7 – 942.33 € spent less. There was no need for drawing board and publishing material. KRPD officers have prepared the preparation of the material and its layout. D.8 – Overspent by 150 € due to a large number of pictures exhibited. D.9 – 4,236.75 € spent less. Publication of articles with necessary LIFE logos and links to the project did not require the budget planned. D.10 – 2,217.15 € spent less. During the price quote for preparing of layout and printing services for Layman’s report was one that offered the lowest price. E.1 – 3,762.30 € spent less. In KRPD monitoring was not performed in 2013 and 2014. In SRPD monitoring was not carried out only in 2014. E.2 – 24,762.63 € underspent. This is due to rapid rotation of project managers, the absence of technical and financial managers for time periods and lower daily rates from the ones foreseen in the application. E.3 – 23,906.21 € underspent. This is due to rapid rotation of project managers, the absence of technical and financial managers for time periods and in general lower daily rates from the ones foreseen in the application. E.4 – no changes. E.5 – 53.14 € spent less. There was no need for printing LIFE and Natura2000 stickers. E.6 – 562.00 € spent less. During procurement survey was chosen the supplier which offered the smallest price.

60 7. Annexes 7.1. Deliverables Annex 1 invoice 012566, copy of the contract, the corresponding proof of payment, documentation of the tender Annex 2 invoice GAL No. 008185 copy of the contract, the corresponding proof of payment, documentation of the tender Annex 3 Map of areas cleaned from shrubs and trees in pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais Annex 4 Map of areas cleaned from shrubs and trees in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos Annex 5 Map of mowed areas in pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais Annex 6 Map of mowed areas in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos Annex 7 Map of grazed areas in pSCI Vijurk ų pievos Annex 8 Map of grazed areas in pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais Annex 9 Letter of property transfer from SRPD to KFE Annex 10 Completion act of bridge construction Annex 11 Bridge construction permit Annex 12 Pictures of bridges with LIFE logo Annex 13 2016 monitoring report of pSCI Šaukli ų riedulynas Annex 14 2016 monitoring report of pSCI Vijurk ų pievos and pSCI Dubysos up ės sl ėnis ties Bazilionais Annex 15 After-Life conservation plan Annex 16 Audit report 7.2. Dissemination materials Annex 17 Pictures of updated notice boards in KRP Annex 18 Pictures of updated notice board in SRP Annex 19 KRPD leaflet Annex 20 Announcement to the conference 2016-05-20 Annex 21 Conference registration table 2016-05-20 Annex 22 Conference presentations 2016-05-20 Annex 23 Pictures of conference 2016-05-20 Annex 24 Announcement to the conference 2016-11-17 Annex 25 Conference presentations 2016-11-17 Annex 26 Presentations from conference 2016-11-17 Annex 27 Pictures from conference 2016-11-17 Annex 28 Pictures LoTo with LIFE logo Annex 29 Publication in "Žaliasis pasaulis" in 2016 Annex 30 Publication in "Švyturys" Annex 31 Layman's report Annex 32 Layman's report dissemination plan 7.3. Requested documents by EC Annex 33 Invoice JON-S No. 00575, the corresponding proof of payment and documentation of the tender Annex 34 Employment documents for Irma Jazdauskait ė Annex 35 Employment documents for Sigitas Kupšys Annex 36 Employment documents for Rimant ė Vitkauskait ė Annex 37 Extracts of project costs recorded in project partners analytical accounting system on a sub-code basis Annex 38 Itemized responses to EC letters 7.4. Final table of indicators

61 8. Financial report and annexes

Financial forms are submitted in CD. Independent financial audit report is submitted in Annex 16.

62