World Bank Document

I E1016 Volume 2

Government of Islamic Republic of Iran l Public Disclosure Authorized | Supplementary Environmental and Social Assessment of

Alborz Integrated Land and Water Management Project

.. q .-.... - Public Disclosure Authorized I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*

I Public Disclosure Authorized

DRAFT 16 September 2004 Public Disclosure Authorized

Prepared by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers ' FILE COPY I I Table of Contents Acronyms and Abbreviations | 0 Executive Summary i

1 Introduction and Background | 1.1 Government Preparation of the Alborz Dam and the AILWMP 1-2 1.2 Design, Objectives and World Bank Involvement 1-4 1.3 Background of the Supplementary Environmental and Social Assessment (ESA) 1-6 1.3.1 Justification and Scope of the Supplementary ESA 1-6 1.3.2 Key Environmental and Social Issues for the ESA 1-7 3 2 Supplementary Information on Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework 2.1 National Legal Framework 2-1 2.1.1 Environmental Issues Addressed in the Third Five-year Development Plan 2-2 I 2.2 National Regulations and Decrees 2-3 2.3 International treaties 2-4 2.4 Policy Framework 2-5 I 2.4.1 National Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies 2-5 2.4.2 World Bank Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies 2-10 2.5 Administrative Framework 2-11

3 Project Description: Alborz Integrated Land and Water Management Project 3.1 Project Title 3-1 4 3.2 Objectives and Justification 3-1 3.3 Project Location 3-2 3.4 Project Components 3-6 || 3.5 Implementation, Oversight and Monitoring 3-24 3.6 Project Phases 3-25 3.7 Other Projects in Project Area 3-27

4 Environmental and Social Baseline Conditions 4.1 Physical and Chemical Environment 4-1 4.1.1 Topographic and Physiographic Conditions 4-1 4.1.2 Geology 4-2 4.1.3 Soils 4-3 4.1.4 Geo-tectonics 4-4 4.1.5 Erosion 4-5 4.1.6 Climate 4-6 9I4.1.7 Hydrology 4-10 4.1.8 Groundwater 4-21 4.1.9 Water Consumption 4-25 3 4.1.10 Ab-bandans (Surface Storage ponds) 4-28 4.1.11 Water Quality 4-29 4.1.12 Waste Water 4-45 3 4.1.13 Solid Waste 4-50 4.1.14 Pollution from Agriculture 4-54 I l | 4.2 Biological Environment 4-58 4.2.1 Flora & Fauna in the Ecological Sections 4-58 4.2.2 Protected areas natural habitats and areas of high biodiversity 4-70 4.2.3 Threatened species and their habitat requirements 4-73 4.2.4 Existing activities affecting the fauna and flora 4-77 4.3 Supplementary Socio-economic Baseline 4-80 a 4.3.1 Population 4-80 4.3.2 Economy 4-81 4.3.3 Services 4-82 J 4.3.4 Religion 4-84 4.3.4 Cultural Environment 4-84 4.4 Public Consultation on the AILWMP 4-85 4.4.1 Assessment of People's Perception of the AILWMP - Public Consultation 4-85

5 Supplementary Assessment of Environmental and Social Impacts 5.1 Supplementary Assessment of Impacts on Physical and Chemical Environment 5-3 5.1.1 Potential Impacts of the Project 5-3 5.2 Supplementary Assessment of Impacts on Biological Environment 5-11 || 5.2.1 Potential Impacts of the Project 5-12 5.3 Supplementary Assessment of Social Impacts 5-14 5.3.1 Potential Impacts of the Project 5-15 I 5.3.4 Resettlement Impacts of the Alborz Dam 5-18 5.4 Cumulative Project Specific Impacts 5-22 5.4.1 Analysis of Project Cumulative Impacts 5-23 5.4.3 Summary of Project Cumulative Impacts 5-24

6 Analysis of Alternatives I 6.1 Analysis of Alternative Components and Sub-Components 6-1 6.1.1 Without Project Alternative 6-1 6.1.2 With Partial Project Alternative 6-2 X 6.1.3 With Project Alternative 6-2 6.2 Project Alternatives 6-3 6.2.1 Dam and Irrigation and Drainage Network 6-3 Xt 6.2.2 Inclusion of Fish Farming 6-4 6.2.3 Water Use Scenarios 6-4 6.3 Justification for the Selected Project Alternative 6-6

7 Mitigation: Environmental and Social Management Plan 7.1 Forest and Wildlife Monitoring 7-3 3 7.2 Water Quality and Quantity Monitoring 7-9 7.2.1 Ab-bandan Management and Monitoring 7-13 7.3 River Ecology Monitoring and Mitigation 7-17 I 7.4 Basin Water Fund 7-22 7.5 Pest Management Plan 7-23 7.5.1 Pest Management in Project Area 7-25 1 7.6 Dam Safety Plan 7-30 7.6.1 Existing Dams and Dams under Construction 7-30 I | 7.6.2 Panel of Experts 7-30 7.6.3 Main Findings and Recommendations 7-31 7.6.5 Dam Safety Action Plan 7-33 I 7.7 Resettlement Action Plan and Policy Frameworks 7-37 7.7.1 Overview and Categorization 7-37 7.7.2 Supplementary Resettlement Plan for Alborz Dam 7-38 I 7.7.3 Additional Resettlement Plan Provisions 7-39 7.7.4 Resettlement Policy Framework - Upper Watershed 7-41 7.7.5 Resettlement Policy Framework - Lower Watershed 7-43 I 7.8 Physical Cultural Property 7-47 7.9 Proposed Budget for the ESMP 7-49 7.9.1 Overview 7-49 7.9.2 Summary of ESMP and Proposed Budget 7-49 7.9.3 Institutional Arrangements 7-62 7.9.4 Implementation Schedule 7-62 I 7.9.5 Reporting Program 7-63 7.9.6 Transparency and Public Participation 7-63 I I l

I I Il 11 | List of Annexes Annex A: Maps

* No. Map Number Subject 1 I-60-GL-01 Base Map (the detail of the Project Area and its Sections) 2 1-60-PE-01 Geological Formations * 3 I-60-PE-02 Location of the Existing Faults 4 1-60-PE-03 Location of the Gauging Stations 5 1-60-PO-01 Location of Major Industries J6 I-60-PO-02 Zone of Agricultural Lands 7 1-60-BO-01 Distribution of Salmo trutta 8 I-60-BO-02 Distribution Panthera pardus 9 I-60-BO-03 Distribution of Cervus&Capreolus 10 I-60-BO-04 Distribution of Ursus Arctos 11 I-60-BO-05 Distribution of Onkorrhynchos mykiss * 12 I-60-BO-06 Suitable Wetland for Habitat and Breeding of chlidonias 13 I-60-BO-07 Distribution of Ecologic Bird 14 I-60-BO-08 Lafoor Hunting Forbidden U 15 I-60-BO-09 High Biodiversity Area 16 I-60-BO-10 Vegetation Map 17 I-60-BO- 11 Vulnerable Communities I 18 I-59-MM-01 Surface Water Monitoring Points 19 I-59-MM-02 Location of Monitoring Wellls

| Annex B Socio-economic and Culture Questionnaires Annex BlLife Quality, Cultural, Social and Economical Questionnaires (Questionnaire No. 1) Annex B2 Public opinion and Public Participation Questionnaire (Questionnaire No.2) Annex C List of Plant Species and Physiognomic Characters (Cl) and (C2) List and Taxonomy of Fish in 5 Babolrood Annex D Pest Management Plan (Prepared by MOJA) Annex E Resettlement Plan and Resettlement Policy Frameworks Annex F Governmental Approval Documents for Implementation of Alborz Dam & its Irrigation and Drainage Network in Project Area Annex G List of ESA Report Preparers Annex H Without-AILWMP Alternatives 5 Annex I Additional Impact Information Annex J Water Demand and Balances Worksheet | Annex K Worksheet in EIA Matrix Annex L Worksheets for Partial Costing of ESMP | Annex M Original ESA CD-ROM I I List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

AILWMP Alborz Integrated Land and Water Management Project ANOVA Analysis of Variance * a.s.l. above sea level ASC Agricultural Service Centers BOD Biological Oxygen Demand I BP Bank Procedure (World Bank) BWC Basin-Wide Committee BWF Basin Water Fund I BWMF Basin Water Management Fund CAS Country Assistance Strategy CDD Community Driven Development * CEP Caspian Environmental Program CHO Cultural Heritage Office CLO Central Liaison Office I COD Chemical Oxygen Demand CWRAS Country Water Resources Assistance Strategy DDT dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane * DO Dissolved Oxygen DOE Department of Environment EA Environmental Assessment J EAWRP Eastern Anatolia Watershed Rehabilitation Project (World Bank) EC Electric Conductivity EFS Extension and Farming Systems I EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan EPP Emergency Preparedness Plan I ESA Environmental and Social Assessment ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan FFS Farmer Field School I FRWO Forest, Rangeland and Watershed Organisation (of MOJA) GIS Geographic Information System GOI Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran I GPS Global Positioning System GSRC Government Stakeholder Representation Committee GW Groundwater I ha Hectares IAS Interim Assistance Strategy (of World Bank) I&D Irrigation and Drainage I IMS Information Management System IPM Integrated Pest Management IPPPM Integrated Pest and Plant Protection Management * I.R. Islamic Republic IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature & Natural Resources l I

1,iwmv Integrated Water Resources Management IWRM Integrated Water Resources Management IWMU Integrated Water Management Unit JIUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources km Kilometer LO Liaison Office I LUP Land Use Planning M&E Monitoring and Evaluation " mcm Million cubic meters I MCC Main Conveyance Canal MEF Ministry of Economy and Finance MDOE Mazandaran Provincial Department of Environment I MDOFA Mazandaran Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture MGCE Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers meq Micro-equivalent I MGCE Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers MGRWC Mazandaran and Golestan Regional Water Company MGW Mega Watts * MIS Management Information Systems Unit MJAD Mazandaran Jihad and Agriculture Department mmZ Millimeter I MNA Middle East/North Africa MOE Ministry of Energy MOH Ministry of Health * MOEF Ministry of Economics and Finance MOH Ministry of Health MOJA Ministry of Jihad Agriculture I MPO Management & Planning Organization (Govt. of I.R. Iran) O&M Operation and Maintenance MPPO Mazandaran Plant Protection Office I OMC Mazandaran Operation and Maintenance Company (irrigation) MR Million Rial MRWA Mazandaran Regional Water Authority U NCAP National Caspian Action Plan NDB National Development Budget NGO Non-governmental Organization I O&M Operation and Management OP Operational Policy (of the World Bank) OMC Operation and Maintenance Company I PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyls PDRI Plantpest and Disease Research Institute pH Chemistry potential of Hydrogen I PIPP Priority Investment Project Portfolio PIC Prior Informed Consent PIU Project Implementation Unit J PMF Probable Maximum Flood POE Panel of Experts I PPD Plant Protection Directorate PPDR Pest and Disease Research Institute POP Persistent Organic Pollutants I PPO Plant Protection Organization (of MOJA) PSI Pollution Standard Index RP Resettlement Plan RPF Resettlement Policy Framework SAP Strategic Action Program SPSS Standard Procedure of Scientific Studies I STD Socio-institutional Development Teams TDA Transboundary Diagnostic Oxygen TDS Total Dissolved Solids I TSS Total Suspended Solids UNDP Untied Nations Development Program UNEP United Nations Environment Program I US$ United States Dollars WB World Bank WHO World Health Organization i| WQ Water Quality WUA Water User Association WUG Water User Group I I l I I I I l I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 3

| | List of Annexes

Annex A: Maps No. Nlap Number Subject 1 I-60-GL-01 Base Map (the detail of the Project Area and its Sections) 2 I-60-PE-0 1 Geological Formations 3 I-60-PE-02 Location of the Existing Faults 4 I-60-PE-03 Location of the Gauging Stations 5 1-60-PO-O0 Location of Major Industries 6 I-60-PO-02 Zone of Agricultural Lands 7 I-60-BO-01 Distribution of Salmo trutta 8 I-60-BO-02 Distribution Panthera pardus 9 I-60-BO-03 Distribution of Cervus&Capreolus 10 I-60-BO-04 Distribution of Ursus Arctos 3 11 1-60-BO-05 Distribution of Onkorrhynchos mykiss 12 I-60-BO-06 Suitable Wetland for Habitat and Breeding of chlidonias 13 I-60-BO-07 Distribution of Ecologic Bird 14 I-60-BO-08 Lafoor Hunting Forbidden 15 I-60-BO-09 High Biodiversity Area 16 1-60-BO-10 Vegetation Map 17 I-60-BO-1 1 Vulnerable Communities 18 I-59-MM-01 Surface Water Monitoring Points * 19 I-59-MM-02 Location of Monitoring Wellls

* Annex B 1|. Annex B]

1. Life Quality, Cultural, Social and Economical Questionnaire (Questionnaire No.1) 2. Tables 1 to 75 related to Questionnaire No.1 as following: 1. Location and Number of samples 2. Living Status of your Parents * GROUP samples 3 3. number of children under 6 years old * GROUP samples 4. number of live birth in your household in current year * GROUP samples 5. number of mortality in household during current year * GROUP samples | 6. Education of house master * GROUP samples 7. mother's education * GROUP samples 8. Religious Belief * GROUP samples | 9. immigration during past years * GROUP samples 10. Residence Location during the Last Couple of years * GROUP samples 11. Residence location now. Group samples I 12. Ownership of Residence * GROUP samples 13. No. of bed room * GROUP samples 14. No. of Room & Hall * GROUP samples I 15. Facilities of Electricity * GROUP samples 16. Facilities of Gas * GROUP samples I l l

17. Facilities of Tel * GROUP samples 18. Facilities of Water supply * GROUP samples 19. Facilities of Heating & Cooling * GROUP samples 20. Facilities of Kitchen * GROUP samples 21. Facilities of shower * GROUP samples 22. Facilities of Toilet * GROUP samples 23. Type of building * GROUP samples 24. Condition of room (light) * GROUP samples 25. Condition of room (walls) * GROUP samples 26. Condition of room (floor) * GROUP samples 27. Condition of room (ceiling) * GROUP samples 28. type of energy usage * GROUP samples 29. Drinking water services * GROUP samples 30. Water supply source * GROUP samples 31. sanitary Bath * GROUP samples 32. Sanitary Toilet * GROUP samples 33. Type of waste water Disposal * GROUP samples 34. monthly Income * GROUP samples 35. Monthly expense * GROUP samples 36. monthly saving * GROUP samples 37. does house master has a second job * GROUP samples 38. second job income * GROUP samples 39. Father's job position_ * GROUP samples 40. animal husbandry * GROUP samples 41. handicrafts * GROUP samples 42. fish cultivation * GROUP samples 43. forestation & wood cutting * GROUP sample 44. agricultural equipment & instrument * GROUP samples 45. sericulture * GROUP samples 46. beekeeping * GROUP samples 47. which kind of cultural institutions or sport facilities exist in your village * GROUP samples 48. is there any health care center in vicinity of your house * GROUP samples 49. type of heath care center * GROUP samples 50. did you get sick during the last month * GROUP samples 51. what sort of following diseases apparent as hereditary in first and second degree of your family * GROUP samples 52. is there any handicapped in your household * GROUP samples 53. number of disabled elderly in your household * GROUP samples 54. are you satisfy with the health services provided * GROUP samples 55. which kind of public services in your area * GROUP samples 56. which kind of public services in your area * GROUP samples 57. which kind of public services in your area * GROUP samples 58. which kind of public services in your area * GROUP samples 59. which kind of public services in your area * GROUP samples 60. solid waste disposal situation * GROUP samples

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| 61. crowded area * GROUP samples 62. Noise pollution * GROUP samples 63. Complain about air pollution * GROUP samples I 64. visiual pollution(building facing is dirty * GROUP samples 65. solid waste in vicinity * GROUP samples 66. surface water pollution, insufficient waste water disposal * GROUP samples * 67. vendors interference * GROUP samples 68. existence of undesirable surroundings, cat & dog * GROUP samples 69. do you have a vehicle * GROUP samples I 70. Agricultural promotion society * GROUP samples 71. cooperative organization * GROUP samples 72. Collaboration association * GROUP samples 73. in which following social activities do you participate * GROUP samples 74. are you member of environmental association or environmental friendly * GROUP samples 75. Correlation between education of house master and monthly income

| * ~~Annex B2

1. Public opinion and Public Participation Questionnaire (Questionnaire No.2) 2. Tables 1 to 25 related to Questionnaire No.2 as following: I 1.Residential &The No. of Sample 2. Education * GROUP Sample 3. WORK PLACE *of Sample GROUP 1 4. are you aboriginal * GROUP Samples 5. DO YOU KNOW ABOUT PASHAKOLAH PROJECT * GROUP Samples 6. HOW DID YOU GET FAMILAR WITH THIS PROJECT * GROUP 3 Sample 7. HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THE ACTIVITIES OF THIS PROJECT * GROUP Samples N 8.how much do you know about the environment * GROUP Samples 9. do you know about forest protection law * GROUP Samples 10. what is your opinion about implementing activities of the Project * GROUP I Samples 11. what is your opinion about civilians relocation * GROUP Samples 12. do you have any comment on wastewater discharge to Babol River * I GROUP Samples 13. what is your opinion about exiting of livestocks from forest * GROUP Samples I 14. define your agreement rate * GROUP Samples 15. in your opinion, is fish cultivation economical in ab-bandan * GROUP Samples U 16. are you ready to take a share for improving activities such as forestation animal husbandry cultivation * GROUP Samples I ! 1 17. Types of participation * GROUP Samples 18. do you know an appropriate solution for River Pollution * GROUP Samples 19. Cross tabulation between education and agreement/disagreement I 20. HOW DID YOU GET FAMILAR WITH THIS PROJECT * Education Cross tabulation Count 21. Correlations * 22. ANOVA(b) 23. Coefficients(a) 24. Coefficient Correlations(a) 25. Co linearity Diagnostics(a)

* Annex C Cl List of Plant Species and Physiognomic Characters C2 List and Taxonomy of Fish in Babolrood

* Annex D Pest Management Plan (Prepared by MOJA) 3 * Annex E Resettlement Plan and Resettlement Policy Frameworks * Annex F 1 1.Governmental Approval Documents for Implementation of Alborz Dam & its Irrigation and Drainage Network in Project Area | 2.No Objection for Minestrone Excavation in Lafoor Area

* Annex G List of ESA Report Preparers

* Annex H Without-AILWMP Alternatives

| * Annex I Additional Impact Information

* Annex J Water Demand and Balances Worksheet

* Annex K Worksheet in EIA Matrix

1 * Annex L Worksheets for Partial Costing of ESMP

| * Annex M Original ESA CD-ROM l l I l l l

1. Introduction and Background

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Alborz Dam, including the irrigation and drainage network, was prepared in 1997 by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers of Iran and, after sev- I eral revisions, approved by the Department of Environment (DOE) in 2003. An English translation of the EIA was prepared in 2002. As part of the preparation of the AILWMP, the Government of Iran (GOI) has decided to conduct further studies and complement the original EIA with a Supple- I mentary Environmental and Social Assessment (ESA), 31 March 2004; the two reports together constituting a full environmental and social assessment. An electronic version of the original EIA (on CD-ROM) is available together with this Supplementary ESA.

The Project is proposed for partial financing by the World Bank and as such will have to comply with World Bank guidelines relative to environmental and social safeguard policies as well as appli- J cable laws and regulations of the GOI.

The ESA was prepared on behalf of the GOI by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers, with the assistance of several consultants listed in Annex H.

The Alborz Dam is being constructed on the Babol River and is located just downstream of the con- | fluence of the tributaries Azar, Karsang and Eskelim. The main purpose of the Alborz Dam is to provide a reliable supply of water for irrigation of the agricultural plains between the Alborz Moun- tains and the Caspian Sea in Mazandaran Province. The construction of the dam commenced in 1999 with funding from the GOI and is expected to be completed in 2006.

While the Alborz Dam is exclusively funded and constructed by the GOI, the GOI has requested a I loan from the World Bank to support the construction of an irrigation and drainage network to be irrigated by the dam in Mazandaran. The GOI agreed to integrate this irrigation and drainage network into a comprehensive project introducing integrated watershed planning and management in I Iran. This integrated project is referred to as the AIL WMP. l I

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1 9/16/2004 l I Figure 1-1 Map of Iran showing location of ProjectArea

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1.1 Government Preparation of the Alborz Dam and the Alborz Integrated | ~~Land and Water Management Project (AILWMP) Following the First Socio-economic & Cultural Development Plan of GOI (1989-1993), the Minis- | ~~~try of Energy approved the construction of 47 dams and drainage-irrigation systems. One of these * ~~~dams was the Alborz Dam in the Pashakola area in Mazandaran Province in northern Iran.

| -~ ~~~The~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Alborz Dam is being constructed on Babol River and will have a 78m high rock fill embank- * ~~~ment. The dam is located just downstream of the confluence of the tributaries Azarrood, Karsan- grood and Eskelimrood, where Babol River starts. Additional inflow to the reservoir will be secured | ~~~by the diversion of the tribut ary Babolak River. The dam will create approximately 150mcm of total * ~~~storage (122 million cubic meters live storage) for irrigation releases. The main purpose of the dam is to provide a reliable supply of irrigation water to the plains between the Alborz Mountains and | ~~~the Caspian Sea.

According to the acts of Second and Third Socio-economic & Cultural Development Plans (1994- | ~~~2005), continuation of the activities including the implementation of Alborz Dam project and the * ~~~establishment of an irrigation and drainage network was re-approved and programmed.

1 -2 g ~~~~~~~~~~~~9/16/2004 l l A screening for cultural heritage or archaeological sites has been carried out. The Cultural Heritage Office in Sari, Mazandaran, has confirmed that the projects, both the ongoing construction work for the dam site area and for the diversion structures, have no conflict with cultural and religious properties. Chance find procedures are in place during construction in compliance with GOI and World Bank safeguard policies.

The irrigation and drainage network will consist of main conveyance and distribution canals to * develop and supply water for 52,000 ha of irrigation, of which 33,000 ha are traditional irrigation areas and 19,000 ha will be new irrigation areas. The main canals are 119 km long and the lateral canals are 110 km long. The construction of a hydropower plant at the Alborz Dam with two 5 MGW turbines has been considered.

Studies for the Talar, Babol and Haraz river basins water resource development were completed in 1369 (1990). After completion of the studies, it was decided to construct the Alborz Dam on Babolrood and Ganj-Aflooz and Raeskola diversion weirs downstream of the dam.

The initial plan was to use water from the Alborz reservoir as the main source of water supply for irrigation, and the lands under small dams or traditional stream systems to be used for supplementary water supply. However, to reduce the project cost and the risk of water shortage the Mazandaran and Golestan Regional Water Company (MGRWC) recommended that small dams were to be used for several purposes and traditional stream systems were to be preserved and | used as integrated elements in the irrigation and drainage network.

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report on the dam and irrigation and drainage pro- 3 jject was prepared by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers of Iran and a preliminary EIA was accepted by MGRWC in 1376 (1997). After several rounds of modifications, the EIA report was approved by Department of Environment (DOE) in 1381 (2003). An English translation 3 was made available in November 2002. The construction of the Alborz Dam commenced on 1st July 1999 under a contract awarded to 3 the Sabir Construction Company. The excavation of the diversion tunnels was completed under an earlier contract. The dam project is due for completion in 2006. The works were designed by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers who are supervising construction. The project is managed by the MGRWC.

Although construction of both the Alborz Dam and the irrigation and drainage network com- | menced in 1999, the Economic Council only approved the implementation of the projects on August 23, 2003. At this time, and at the request of MGRWC and Ministry of Jihad and Agri- culture (MOJA), both agencies assumed responsibility for the financing of the project.

The Management & Planning Organization (MPO) proclaimed the project implementation approval' to the Ministries of Energy and Jihad-Agriculture. This organization allowed the em-

3 i Letter No. 111394 dated September 6, 2003, MPO. 1-3 9/16/2004 ployment of foreign financial facilities (World Bank) according to the article 85 (item 1 of I clause C) of the Act of the Third Socio-Economic & Cultural Development Plan. MPO notified the Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance (MOEF) of the issue and approved the repayment of credit facilities on behalf of the GOI. The chairman of the board of directors and the managing director of Mazandaran Regional Water Board notified the Projects Director General of the MGRWC through letter No.278121/101 dated October 6 2003 and asked the Un- dersecretary of Energy in Water Affairs for official arrangements and orders through letter 27954/101 dated October 7, 2003.

1.2 Design, Objectives and World Bank Involvement The World Bank's Interim Assistance Strategy (IAS) of May 2001 supports the GOI priorities of economic reforms, social protection, environmental and natural resource management. Based on the achievements of the previous Bank-financed Irrigation Improvement Project, the IAS advocates a comprehensive river basin approach to water resource management, which is consistent with the Bank's Water Resources Sector Strategy. The IAS states that any new World Bank involvement in water management and agricultural development of a river basin should link catchment management of the upper reaches of the river basin with conservation of water resources in the lower reaches. In the upper area, catchment management would include soil conservation with forestry management and restoration of productivity of the rangeland, which has been degraded by overgrazing. In the lower area, where water is used for irrigation, urban water supply and aquaculture, surface and ground water resources need to be managed comprehensively. A key challenge is to improve the operation and maintenance (O&M) of all hydraulic infrastructure.

The design process for the AILWMP started in 2002, from the outset with close collaboration between GOI and the World Bank. Although the Alborz Dam is not financed by the AILWMP, it falls within the project area and therefore the aforementioned EIA was reviewed for compliance with the Bank environmental and social safeguard policies. In general, the Supplementary ESA covers a larger project area than the original EIA, it considers all aspects of an integrated water basin approach (rather than a stand-alone dam water storage project), and it provides a supplemental social and environmental mitigation, monitoring and capacity building measures, as will be fully described below.

With regards to the World Bank safeguard policies, several major issues have been addressed within the Supplementary ESA. For example, the GOI recently established the Dam Safety Panel of Ex- perts (POE) in order to examine the soundness of the design, construction plan, and O&M aspects, as outlined in Operational Policy (OP) 4.37 Safety of Dams. The Dam Safety POE provided its findings and recommendations in order to secure the safety of the dam as well as optimized operation and sustainable reservoir management.

The GOI has also prepared three resettlement instruments in accordance with the Bank's OP 4.12, which included mechanisms for those who have already been relocated with compensation according to Iranian law, and for retrospective compensation. These are examples where Bank support has

3Letter No.101/124431 dated September 27, 2003, MPO 1-4 9/16/2004 l

proved beneficial for all stakeholders, particularly the poor living in the upper watershed who are | frequently left without adequate compensation.

The AILWMP is designed to be in compliance with the strategic approaches of the IAS and with the I general economic development priorities of GOI. The objective of the proposed project is to enhance current GOI efforts to achieve sustainable integrated land and water management at the river 3 basin level through: (i) sustainably increasing agricultural productivity through the improved irrigation and drainage system and participatory management mechanism;

(ii) reducing soil erosion and sediment yields into the Alborz Dam, which is currently under 3 construction using GOI funds, through the improved upper watershed management; and (iii) protecting the water environment downstream of the Babol River and other water bodies through improved hydrological/water quality monitoring, reservoir operation, and pest management.

To meet these objectives, five project components have been designed:

I Upper Watershed and ForestryManagement Component 2 Irrigationand DrainageNetwork Component I 3 Integrated Water Resources Management Component 4 Environmental and Social Management Plan 5 Project Co-ordination and Implementation Support

The five components and their objectives and main activities are described in Chapter 3, Project De- |3scription.

Two agencies, MGRWC and MOJA, will take joint responsibility for implementing the AILWMP, and both ministries have accepted an important supervisory/monitoring role on behalf of the third key stakeholder, Department of Environment (DOE).

The project will enable water resources of the project area to be managed in a sustainable man- I ner. Improving forest, catchment and livestock management in the catchment area of the Alborz Dam will reduce sedimentation in the reservoir, while improving irrigation infrastructure and operation downstream will benefit all stakeholders in rural and urban areas. The project will I support decision-making on water resources management at the lowest appropriate levels by including key stakeholders through farm-level Water Users Associations (WUAs), sub-basin level catchment management / forest cooperatives, and an apex Basin Water Committee (BWC). A comprehensive river basin development approach will facilitate solutions to basin- level water allocation and water quality problems, which will eventually lead to better natural 3 resource management and conservation.

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1.3 Background of the Supplementary Environmental and Social | Assessment (ESA) The proposed AILWMP is designed to address a wide range of significant environmental and social issues. The original 1997 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report' prepared by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers for the GOI addresses several key environmental issues and includes some relevant information on social issues and on planned resettlement activities. Yet the EIA covered only the dam site and some issues within the lower, irrigated areas, but not the upper catchment.

In addition to the aforementioned dam safety and resettlement aspects, the EIA review also concluded that a number of the expected joint environmental and social impacts of the Alborz Dam Pro- ject and the AILWMP were not covered in sufficient detail. As part of the preparation of the AILWMP, the GOI therefore decided to conduct further studies and complement the original EIA with a Supplementary Environmental and Social Assessment (ESA); the two reports together constituting a full environmental and social assessment. An electronic version of the original EIA (on CD-ROM) is available together with this Supplementary ESA.

The Supplementary ESA covers the entire area of the AILWMP (including the upper catchments, middle section and lower lands) and addresses issues that were not fully covered in the original EIA. Reference is therefore made to the original EIA, when relevant, and in a few cases to other preparation studies.

The Supplementary ESA is also consistent with the recommendations of the Country Water Re- sources Management Strategy (CWRAS) recently prepared by the Bank, which indicated that many dam projects have not produced positive impacts on the ground due to uncoordinated downstream irrigation and on-farm management practices, and poor upper watershed management leading to the rapid siltation of dam reservoirs. I 1.3.1 Justification and Scope of the Supplementary ESA A review of the 1997 EIA report for the dam and the irrigation and drainage network estimated that 3 about one third of all the potential environmental and social impacts of the AILWMP were covered. More coverage is required in terms of the following issues:

| A larger project area. The original EIA covers only the lower area from the Caspian Sea (25m below oceanic sea level) to the middle lands (up to 200m a.s.l.) where the dam is located. The AILWMP will cover the upper catchment (3300m a.s.l.) through the hilly middle lands (200-150m a.s.l.) to the lower, irrigated plains and the Caspian Sea (-25m a.s.l.). With the larger project area, new physical, chemical, biological and social baseline data should be analysed for all areas and the possible project impacts on these should be assessed. In addition, the larger project area and the broader scope of the AILWMP necessitates additional review and analysis of the existing policy and legal frameworks

(I) An EIA of the Alborz Dam, including the irrigation and drainage network, was prepared in 1997 by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers of Iran and, after several revisions, approved by the DOE in 2003. 1-6 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ l

I Assessment of cumulative impacts. Cumulative impacts are assessed within the entire watershed (upper, middle and lower lands) and the assessment includes secondary and tertiary order impacts arising from the project on the environment and people of the area * Analysis of Alternatives (including the "without-project" alternative!. The EIA mainly cov- I ered alternative sites and locations for the dam and irrigation and drainage network. It is necessary also to evaluate the "without-project" alternative, and analyse project specific alternatives for the various project components * Safeguard Policies. The Alborz Dam is being constructed within the project area and affects both upstream and downstream areas. Therefore, this project is categorized by WB as a Category A project, triggering seven WB safeguards policies: Environmental Assessment (OP 4.01), I Pest Management (OP 4.09), Cultural Property (OPN 11.03, drafted as OP 4. 11), Involun- tary Resettlement (OP 4.12), Forests (OP 4.36), Safety of Dams (OP 4.37), and International Waterways (the Caspian Sea) (OP 7.50). * Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP). Though approved by the Iranian DOE, the original EIA did not comply fully with the World Bank safeguard policy requirements for preparation of an Environmental and Social Management Plan because it does not I include a schedule of mitigation and monitoring of project impacts with a preliminary budget for these activities. Of particular importance are the requirements for a Dam Safety Plan, a Pest Management Plan, a Resettlement Policy Framework/ Resettlement Action I Plan, a Forest Management Plan, and the requirements for public consultations and disclosure.

The scope of the supplementary ESA may be summarised as: * to provide supplementary information on the policy, legal and administrativeframeworks of the project, I * to provide additionalphysical, biological and socio-economic baseline datafor the larger project area * to ensure compliance with World Bank Safeguard Policies I * to provide additionalanalysis of cumulative effects and project alternatives(including the without-project alternative) * to prepare an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) * to carry out additionalpublic disclosure and consultations

I Supplementary public consultations were undertaken during the ESA process, including disclosure to the public of the terms of reference for the new ESA and the interventions to be implemented under the AILWMP. Interviews and meetings have been held with the inhabitants of the upper, middle I and lower areas of the project area three times during construction phase. This will be followed by disclosure of the draft ESA in the project area (in Farsi) and at the World Bank "InfoShop" in Washington, DC (in English), and by additional consultations during implementation phase.

1.3.2 Key Environmental and Social Issues for the ESA The TOR for the Supplementary ESA highlight a number of key environmental and social issues that need to be addressed with particular attention. These include:

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1. Changes in river flow regime and minimum base flow for fish spawning and habitat in rivers: The impacts of changes in the Babol River flow regime after the dam is operational have not been adequately analysed in the original EIA. In addition, there has been controversy as to the minimum flow requirements for fish spawning in the Babol River and its tributaries. The original EIA partly addresses this is- * sue, but additional mitigation and monitoring measures need to be addressed to quantify, on a monthly basis, sustainable river flows for further discussion with fisheries experts.

2. Degraded water quality: There is substantial data to show pollution within the lower project area from non-point agricultural run-off (pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides) as well as point source pollution from small industries and workshops. The ESA should recommend an extensive program of mitigation (in- I cluding integrated pest management-IPM), capacity building and monitoring to improve the current status in the lower lands.

3. Protection of ab-bandans and groundwater resources: prevention of salt water intrusions: The abban- dans (ponds) are a valued community resource that will continue to be used as reservoirs in the irrigation and drainage network. However the complex water use and water balance interactions within the project area needs to be carefully monitored to assure continued use of the ab-bandans, sustainable yields of groundwater and prevention of saline intrusion.

4. Sustainable Management of Upper Catchment: Tree-Cutting and Management of Special Hunting Area(s): The reservoir area will be cleared of trees and vegetation, and there will be moderate impacts to this part of the project area. The improved access to the area may increase hunting pressures (mainly on pheasants), and proper mitigation and integrated land management plans should be developed for the reservoir area and the upper catchment.

1 5.Resettlement Framework: Significant resettlement is necessary in the middle and lower lands due to project construction. The resettlement of households from the Alborz Dam area has been carried out in accordance with the legal and policy provisions that are applicable to such projects in Iran. How- * ever, based on a recent assessment of the resettlement strategy, the plan has been modified to align it with the World Bank's safeguard policies. As a result, a supplementary Resettlement Plan (RP) for the Alborz Dam area has been developed. In addition, two Resettlement Policy Frameworks I (RPF) for the upper watershed and the lower lands have been prepared, using data obtained from the social assessment carried out as part of the current ESA. I The GOI prepared the supplementary ESA with technical assistance from Mahab Ghodss Consult- ing Engineers (Iran) and submitted it to the World Bank for review. In order to fulfil its due diligence, the World Bank conducted a compliance review and quality control of the ESA report with I assistance from COWI A/S (Denmark) and Environmental Resources Management (ERM) in the USA.

1-8 * 9/16/2004 l I I I 2 Supplementary Information on Policy, Legal and 3 Administrative Framework 2.1 National Legal Framework | Iran has a comprehensive legal framework guiding water resources management and environmental management and protection. Article 50 of the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Iran declares that protection of the environment is a public obligation and therefore "economic and I any other activity, which results in pollution or irremediable destruction of the environment, is prohibited". 3 Important legal instruments relevant to the project include: - Law preventing establishment of premises and workshops, whose operations have negative impacts on public health, adjacent to cities. (1949) - Law on Fishing and Hunting (1965) - Law on plants protection (1966) - Law on protection and reclamation of environment (1967) I - Law on protection of the natural parks, protected areas and sensitive areas. (1975) - Law on forest and ranges exploitation (Article 31 amended- note (4))(1975) - Law of the coast and reclaimed lands from the sea (1976) I - Statutory bill on illegal fishing in the Caspian sea and Persian Gulf (1980) - Statutory bill on purchase and acquisition of lands and properties for the implementation of general development and military plans of the government (1980) I - Legal bill to preserve and expand urban parts (1981) - Law on proper use of water resources (1982) - Law on equal distribution of water (1983) I - Law on settling disputes over lands (related to article 56 of the Law on forests and ranges (1989)) - Law on establishment of water and sewage companies (1991) iLI - Law on prevention air pollution (1996) - Law on establishment of rural water and sewage companies (1996) - Law on protection and exploitation of national aquatics (1996) - Law on conservation and protection of natural and forest resources in Iran (1996) - Law on co-operatives, articles 24 and 25 (1999) | - Law on endangered species of wild fauna and flora (1999)

3 2-1 9/16/2004 2.1.1 Environmental Issues Addressed in the Third Five-year Development Plan In addition, the executive regulations (subsidiary legislation) of the current 3rd Five-Year Development Plan address relevant water and environmental aspects. The Executive Bylaw for Paragraph (c) of articles 104 and 134 include (i) categorization of water bodies based on their environmental sensitivity; (ii) establishment of national discharge standards; and (iii) 3 establishment of an enforcement mechanism for discharge standards, based on fines.' Article 104 of the regulations states that, in order to protect environment and to exploit natural | resources throughout the country, the following points should be taken into account:

(104) A: The natural resources throughout the country shall be exploited based on the potential 3 of these resources. Therefore, the government shall take necessary measures to ensure environmental sustainability while helping growth of production and exploitation of the resources. The government can do this by following principles such as: "An equilibrium | between cattle and the rangeland", "Excluding cattle from the forests", "Providing adequate grazing or fodder for cattle", "Providing fuel for the forest dwellers", "Protection of basic and genetic resources", "Supporting an integrated management for the basic resources", and I "Establishing public cooperation in planning, decision making and execution procedures". (104) B: In order to support and strengthen the non-governmental organizations that are I protectors of the environment and natural resources it is necessary to receive any donations from individuals, and legal entities. Then donations are deposited in a special account in the central treasury that are later granted to the mentioned organization based on a regulation that is put J forth in common by the DOE as well as the MOJA. It is finally enforced after the cabinet's approval. 1 (104) C: In order to reduce environmental pollutants, especially in relation to the natural and water resources in the country, all production and industrial units shall comply with the standards for protecting the environment and reducing pollution. All costs in doing so shall be * covered by the industrial units. Offenders whose operations result in damage to the environment will be fined in proportion to the damage caused. The fines are deposited in the treasury and later, as a part of the annual budget, are allocated to environmental reclamation projects. The law associated with this paragraph specifies the amount of the fine, the way it is received and how it is spent.

(104) D: In order to control pollution and to protect coastal areas, the government shall move any production unit from there. In order to encourage the industrial units to leave urban areas, the following measures shall be taken:

1- The activities of workshops and plants shall be in accordance with the standards of the municipalities and based on agreement with individual or legal owners.

(') The DOE shall provide practical and executive mechanisms for development and employment projects in protected areas so that the implementation of community development plans does not come to a standstill while environment standards are taken 3 into account. 2-2 | ~~~~~~~~~~~~~9/16/2004 2- The Oil, Energy and Telecommunication Ministries shall buy all rights and other permissions related to gas, water, electricity and telephone systems from the person or unit that holds them based on a fair price or shall transfer these royalties to the individuals or legal identities that the right-holder introduces. This last measure shall be enforced in short time without compensation. U Article 105: All large industrial and service proj ects, before commencing operation and during feasibility and site studies, shall be assessed based on the environment standards determined and approved respectively by the Head of the Council of Environment and the Cabinet. MPO is responsible for enforcement of this article.

Article 134: the issuance of any permission to large industrial, service, stock raising units or other plants, which produce large amounts of wastewater, to exploit surface, subsurface water resources, or these of urban supplying systems, depends on the quality of equipment for sewage | collection, treatment and hygienic disposal of residue. Offenders shall pay a fine until they establish adequate pollution control measures. This is enforced based on regulation and tariffs enacted by the cabinet. In this procedure, water type and pollution rate are taken into account. I This fine is transferred to the treasury and through annual budget is entrusted to the DOE that is supposed to allocate this budget to operating those projects that result in protection of water resources, treatment and hygienic disposal of sewage. The MOE along with the DOE and the 3 competent executive authorities shall provide the executive regulation of this article and propose it to the cabinet for final approval.

2.2 National Regulations and Decrees

I Other relevant regulationsand decrees approved by DOE are asfollows: - Executive regulation on law of protection and reclamation of environment (1976) - Executive regulation on law of fishing and hunting (1967) amendment (1996) - Regulation on preventing water pollution (1995) - Executive regulation on law of how to prevent air pollution (2001) I - Executive regulation on how to prevent noise pollution (2000) - Executive regulation on land of conservation and exploitation of national aquatics (2000) - Regulation related on the beds and banks of rivers, streams, floodways, swamps, natural I ponds, water supplying, irrigation and drainage systems (2001) - Regulation related to using lands, establishment of premises outside of legal urban areas (1977) amended (1995) - Decree approved by the cabinet on standards for exhausted gases produced by the industrial plants and factories (law on prevention of air pollution, article 15-2000). - Decree approved by the cabinet on the establishment of industries in Gilan and Mazandaran provinces (2001) - Decree on regional plan for Gilan and Mazandaran (1995) - Regulation on sanitation (1993) - Executive regulation on proper control on toxins and chemicals (2000)

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- Executive regulation to law of preserving efficiency of agricultural lands and gardens (1996) - Amended executive regulation of law for settling disputes on lands, article 56 of law for X national forests and ranges 1989 (1995) - Executive regulation of article 1, law on conservation and protection of natural and forest resources in Iran (1993-amended 1995) e - Decree on import and export of wild birds and animals (supplement of export and import regulations)- 1004

Decrees on human environment:

- Decree no. 68, dated Aug. 1977, on selected areas to enforce articles 11,12, and 13 of law for protection and reclamation of environment. - Decree no. 108, dated Jun.1988, on enforcing regulations, of articles 11 and 12 of law for protection and reclamation of environment throughout the country including coastal areas and main land. | - Decree no.156, dated j an.1998, on regulation for environmental assessment.

| Decrees on naturalenvironment:

- Decree no. 164, dated Jan. 1999, on protecting 10% of whole national forests. 3 - Identification and classification of wild animal species included in law of fishing and hunting - Decree on trading, keeping and exporting of wild animals (no.170,2001) U - Decree on 4 areas controlled by the environment organization, paragraph A, article 3, law of protection and reclamation of environment. - Standard for sewage discharge J - Prohibited areas for hunting - Stall-feeding cattle in protected areas - Certificate to enter the determined four areas. - Certificate to import and export wild animals.

2.3 International treaties Iran has taken several measures to enhance international cooperation with relation to environmental affairs and has accepted international legal responsibilities by adhering to a substantial number of international conventions such as:

1. Principals on the conservation of the forests (Rio - 1992) 2. International Union Conservation Water and Natural Resources (1974) 3. Convention on wetlands of international importance especially as waterfowl habitat (convention on wet land) - Ramsar (1971) 4. Convention on international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora (1973) 5. Convention on biological diversity (Rio 1992)

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6. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, 7. The World Heritage Convention, CITES, 8. Rotterdam Convention on the prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous J Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade, 9. Stockholm convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, 10. Montreal Protocol on Ozone Depleting Substances Phase-out 11. Kyoto convention on climate Change (since 1997).

2.4 Policy Framework The AILWMP will be implemented in accordance with the overall policies of the GOI's five year I development plans, of which the fourth is currently under preparation. In addition, the project is being implemented under the GOI's environmental strategies. In 1993 the NationalStrategyfor Environmental Sustainable Development was adopted. The aims of this strategy included creating I a framework document comprising an environmentally-oriented set of policies in the 2nd Five- Year Development Plan (1994-1999) and increasing public awareness of issues related to sustainable development in the country and their relationship to international environmental I concerns. The National Environmental Protection Strategy's goal is to put 10% of the national land area under protection. 3 Due to the nature of the AILWMP and the construction of the Alborz Dam and the irrigation and drainage network, a number of World Bank and GOI environmental and social policies must be considered.

One of the key safeguard requirements for this project (by the GOI and by the World Bank) is the requirement for an Environmental and Social Management Plan that describes the mitigation of I negative project impacts and the monitoring of the environmental impact. This plan constitutes one of the five components of the AILWMP and is presented in detail in this report with * associated activity and budget proposals (Chapter 7).

2.4.1 National Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies The Project triggers a number of GOI safeguard policies. These have been developed over the years to ensure environmental and social protection. GOI has approved the objectives of safeguard I criteria for the following six issues: - Public health preservation 3 - Environmental health preservation - Prevention of and compensation for damage caused to public and environmental health - Rehabilitation of damaged areas 5 - Improvement of the quality of life, culture, environment and public welfare - Sustainable development in socio-economic and cultural affairs and public participation and co-operation

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| Iranian social and environmental safeguard criteria are set on the following four major divisions: - Natural environment protection - Environmental impact assessment J - Standards for effluents, air, noise and solid wastes and guideline for adherence by industries - Large-scale environmental monitoring such as investigation into greenhouse gasses, temperature change and ozone layer change.

Naturalenvironment protection Criteria for environmental protection have been developed by DOE, FRWO and the Fisheries Organization based on the approved laws and regulations. One part of the approved laws and regulations relates to general regulations on environmental protection and two other parts include natural and human environment regulations. The safeguard criteria for forestlands and pasturelands will be discussed separately below. I Forest safeguardcriteria Iranian forest safeguard criteria are more or less similar to those of the World Bank. GOI has a forestry strategy to employ overall planning of forest exploitation together with intensive afforestation and forest protection. It is a national goal to increase the forest cover tol O% of the national land area from the present 7.5%. It is intended that protected forests and areas with other 3 levels of protection will increase markedly in the future. The GOI is pursuing a strategy of multiple forest utilization and is launching a vigorous national I reforestation and afforestation program to reclaim degraded forests and rangelands, protect watersheds and manage industrial forests on a sustained yield basis. It also aims to give private enterprises long-term concessions for the industrial utilization and sustained yield management of 3 large forest areas. The government has encouraged the creation of forest cooperative societies that are organized by catchment. The cooperatives carry out various forest maintenance and harvesting activities in the watershed under contract with the government.

Iranian laws and regulations on forest and natural resource (pastures) protection have been set regarding the following:

- Balance between the number of livestock and carrying capacity of the pasturelands. - Settlement of livestock keepers in forests - Land ownership demarcation 3 The major policies for forest and pasture development are as follows: * Integrating the public participation based approaches with development and planning * Using public cooperation and participation in resource management I * Sustainable exploitation of forests and natural resources * Organizational improvement and enhancement * Assurance of the continuation of forestry management and policies and cooperative plans

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| Forest& pasture safeguardaspects The following three aspects have been defined for Iranian forests and pastures safeguard: "- Public cooperation and participation I - Forest roads - Integrated pest management

| Social indicators are: (1) Overall public cooperation and participation in decision-making, (2) per capita income and improvement of the quality of the life of the forest-dwellers, (3) in/out migration.

Physical indicators include: (1) sediment, erosion (2) poisons and chemical residues including insecticides, (3) vegetation cover of forests and pastures, (4) illegal cutting of trees, illegal haulage of wood (the number of offense and penalties).

Dam safety criteria There is no specific dam safety legislation in Iran, but there are internal procedures within the MGRWC for the monitoring of large dams. The procedure works at three levels: lnOperation At dam site Dam Safety Group Data collection Routine reporting Emergency inspection

Regional Management responsibility lRegional Water Authority Annual reports Contracts & case studies Emergency warning l National Central Safety Group Policy responsibility Specialized studies Emergency action

At each level responsibilities and procedures are defined. These range from routine duties at the I Dam Safety Group level to overall policy and specialized studies and actions at a national level. The procedure requires an inspection of each dam by a panel of engineers, independent of the * designer, on an annual basis with a more detailed inspection every five years.

This procedure will meet the requirement of the World Bank safeguard policy OP 4.37 for periodic safety inspections following completion. The dam safety procedure also requires that dam construction schedule and monitoring of work progress including the raising of the embankment

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| should be defined, including assessment of materials used, supervision of dam construction, and observance of dam safety instructions in accordance with the design. In addition there are requirements for installation of monitoring and instrumentation equipment to record the dam behavior including piezometers, seismographs and other safety equipment. Operation and maintenance instructions are prepared for each dam, and the personnel involved trained in I reporting and record keeping. Emergency preparedness measures include training of and instructions to the personnel responsible in each construction section and identification of specific responsibilities in case of emergencies.

PesticideManagement Policies GOI has developed the following pest management policies, which aim at the protection of agricultural products against harmful organisms and assurance of food security and human health in accordance with the Plant Protection Act and GOI's principles of environmental protection: - Regulation of import permits, release from customs, production, processing, packing and distribution of pesticides and other plant pest control chemicals as well issue of license for pest control companies, laboratories and health clinics and insectariums - Prevention of the entry of plant pests and diseases with the import of agricultural products and plant parts, contain the spread of domestic pests and diseases and carry out control activities where necessary. - Inspection of agricultural products in transit - Inspection agricultural export products and issuance of phytosanitary certificates l - Promotion of non-chemical control (cultivation, biological, etc.) and reduction of chemical control in the interest of the environment - Observe the scientific principles in carrying out IPM by setting up monitoring networks I and early warning systems - Phase out the use of hazardous pesticides which are banned or whose use is restricted by WHO and other relevant international bodies. Replace high dose pesticides from the I national list of authorized pesticides with new low dose chemicals - Involve the private sector in licensing private plant protection clinics and insectariums, pesticide retailers and pest control companies.

Policies on Involuntary Resettlement Policies and provisions related to the involuntary resettlement are formulated within the I framework of the "Statutory Bill on Purchase and Acquisition of Lands and Propertiesfor the Implementation of the General Development and Military Plans of The Government" of January 3 27, 1980 (hereinafter referred to as Land Acquisition Law). Additional guidance is provided through Ministry of Reconstruction and Jihad Order no.1948/S1O/V (1996) and the subsequent amendments of 2001 and 2003, which guide * resettlement of forest dwellers and relocation of livestock from degraded rangeland and forests. The Order is applicable to all settlements and animal husbandry units located within the forests designated. Compensation and other benefits prescribed under the Order will be available only to those who participate voluntarily in the resettlement program, remove all livestock from the forest,

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| surrender all exemptions they enjoyed within the forest area and formally give up all claims/rights they had inside the forest areas.

| The Land Acquisition Law, while allowing the government to speedily acquire private lands for economic development or military purpose, protects the rights of property owners and ensures 3 just compensation. The important features of the Law are:

* The final compensation is decided through negotiated agreement between the acquiring agency and the property owner. If there is disagreement about the value of I the property the dispute is referred to an independent board of arbitrators acceptable to both parties. This process generally assures compensation higher than the prevailing market price of similar properties; I * Owners are entitled to an additional 15% compensation if the property under acquisition is a place of residence or source of livelihood; 3 * The Law recognizes established customs and conventions with respect to ownership titles, lease rights and other similar rights. This helps the owners of the rights to claim the compensation without lengthy legal processes.

One of the main provisions of the Law is that it authorizes government agencies or "Administrative Organizations" to take over private land and other immovable properties if it |3has been deterrnined that such lands and properties are required for public purposes. "Administrative Organizations" include ministries and organizations or offices affiliated to the government as well as municipalities, banks, state universities and other organizations named in I the Law. "Public purposes" include developmental as well as military projects that are deemed necessary and vital for public good and security of the country.

Under the Land Acquisition Law, acquisition of private land and other immovable properties is allowed only when nationalized or state land suitable for the project is not available. Acquisition of private property in such cases requires the approval of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development or other designated agencies.

The acquisition process can be initiated only when it has been authorized by the highest ranking I official of the Administrative Organization and the necessary funds for the purpose has been secured from the Bureau of Budget and Planning. Acquisition and compensation principles apply to all types of rights such as ownership rights, third party rights such as lease rights, business rights, etc.

For the project area, it is important to note that the government currently has a program for I resettlement of people who live in forest areas, which is being guided by Order no. 1948/S1 O/V (1996). The FRWO announces resettlement plans, evaluates and verifies assets, and enters license cancellation and compensation agreements with forest dwellers being resettled under this program. I

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| 2.4.2 World Bank Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies The World Bank's safeguard policy on Environment Assessment (Operational Policy 4.01) applies to the AILWMP. The Project has been placed in environmental screening category "A". A project is classified as Category A if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are sensitive, diverse, or unprecedented. These impacts may affect an area outside the sites or facilities subject to physical works. The EA process for a Category A project examines the project's potential negative and positive environmental impacts, compares them with those of feasible alternatives (including the "without project" situation) and recommends any measures needed to prevent, minimize, mitigate, or compensate for adverse impacts and improve environmental performance. For a Category A project, the Borrower is responsible for preparing an EA Report.

The nature of the potential impacts for the AILWMP mandate the preparation of a full Environmental Assessment supported by public consultation and disclosure of information. In addition, it is mandatory to develop an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) that describes measures to mitigate negative project impacts and environmental monitoring arrangements. The ESMP constitutes one of the five components of the AILWMP and includes a detailed list of mitigation activities as well as a budget plan for the implementation of the ESMP.

In addition to OP 4.01, the AILWMP triggers six World Bank environmental and social safeguard policies. These are outlines below:

OP 4.01 - Environmental Assessment: A category "A" environmental assessment is required due to the use of water resources, scope of impacts from the construction and operation phases and the I potentially controversial nature of the AILWMP. The environmental assessment should include an analysis of the potential positive and negative physical, biological, socio-economic and cultural property impacts of the proposed Project. It should identify and evaluate both the direct and I indirect impacts of the proposed Project in a larger project area, referred to in this project as the "extended project area". Under the current procedures of the World Bank all environmental assessments for category "A" projects require that the studies be prepared by an independent consultant (as is the case of this report).

O.P 4.09 Pest Management: The Project envisages about 18,000 ha under new irrigation * development. Pollution levels in the lower parts of rivers and streams in Mazandaran and the southern coastal part of the Caspian Sea are high. Agricultural activities have increased pollution due to the heavy use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers in Mazandaran. The use of chemicals * has been encouraged by the government policy of subsidizing agricultural chemicals and fertilizers, a policy that is now gradually being abandoned. Since new areas are going to be put into production which will result in the additional use of pesticides, a pest management plan I addressing all relevant pest management issues and proposing mitigation measures such as integrated pest management (IPM) programs should be prepared for the Project and integrated in 5 the Environmental and Social Management Plan (see Chapter 7 of this report) OPN 11.03, being revised as O.P 4.11 (draft) Cultural Property: The Cultural Heritage Office in Sari, Mazandaran confirmed that there are no valuable cultural and religious properties in the areas * of the Alborz Dam project and the diversion structures under construction. A detailed field survey will be carried out for the AILWMP prior to construction activities, and chance find procedures

2-10 1 9/16/2004 | during construction will be implemented to ensure compliance with World Bank safeguard policies.

| OP 4.12 - Involuntary Resettlement: Due to the construction of the Alborz Dam in the project area, 17 villages have been affected involving a population of about 3000 who have been affected in varying degrees. The safeguard policy requires a Resettlement Plan (RP) for the reservoir area and * Resettlement Policy Frameworks (RPF's) for the upper catchments and the lower areas where land acquisition is, and involuntary resettlement may be an issue. In the upper areas, the grazing management restrictions and the forestry management practices envisaged under the project and the on-going government programs on resettlement of forest dwellers necessitates the development and use of the policy framework. In the lower areas the construction of canals and diversion weirs 1 will require considerable land acquisition. The two RPFs and the RP have been prepared. OP 4.36 Forests: The AILWMP envisages a number of different activities in the forested upper catchment of the project area. A participatory community-based forest management program will be designed under the AILWMP Upper Watershed and Forestry Management Component. This component includes participatory master planning of forestry and water resource protection activities during the inception phase of the component as well as community-based implementation and management arrangements.

O.P 4.37 Safety of Dams: The Alborz Dam (150 mcm capacity) is currently under construction and is expected to be complete by 2006. The dam is being financed by the GOI without external assistance. The project area also has several other small dams (e.g., Shiahdeh dam, Berenjestnak | dam, Bozrood dam). The Bank's O.P 4.37 on Dam Safety is thus triggered and an independent panel of experts (POE) needs to be constituted by the GOI. The Bank has requested that the Dam Safety Panel of Experts (POE) be convened for the following reasons: (i) the significance of the | Alborz Dam in terms of irrigation water supply and possible severe flooding of downstream cities/villages; (ii) the necessity of integrating the operation of the dam with basin wide water resources management and the proposed project; and (iii) various technical issues warranting three 3 or more experts related to hydrology, seismicity and geology. The Dam Safety POE has been established and held its first round of meetings and a site visit in February 2004. The panel reviewed the planning, investigation, design, construction supervision, and operation and I maintenance aspects of the dam and submitted a dam safety report to the MGRWC/MOE in February 2004.

3 O.P 7.50 Project on International Waterways: As the rivers originating in the project area may have an effect on the water quality or water quantity of the Caspian Sea, the AILWMP triggers OP 7.50. The impact of the rivers of the project area on the Caspian Sea has been assessed and found I insignificant both in terms of water quantity and quality. In order to comply with the policy, project notification letters have been issued and sent to the riparian countries of the Caspian Sea, I i.e. Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

2.5 Administrative Framework Regional development programs, such as the AILWMP, proposed by provincial ministry offices are submitted to the respective central government ministries for approval. After review and

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I adjustment, they are included in the National Development Program that is submitted to the Majlis for approval. The individual programs and associated budgets are then passed to each ministry for implementation. The Alborz Dam itself has, as mentioned in Chapter 1, recently been finally approved.

Different ministries and organizations are responsible for different aspects of the safeguard * policies depending on their mandate. For example, the MGRWC and the MOJA are responsible for water and food supply respectively and Ministry of Industries is partially responsible for environmental and human health. The Ministry of Justice is responsible fore the establishment of I civil laws, human rights and social justice and the MOJA is responsible for preserving and supervising the rights of pasture-owners or those who exploit pastures. The vice-president for the Women's Affairs is responsible for protecting women's rights. MOJA and the Council for Islamic Guidance jointly supervise tribal affairs. Other ministries and organizations are responsible for supervising the observance and preservation of public social rights such as accessibility to health services, training services, roads, transportation and telecommunication facilities, water and electrical power.

DOE holds the overall responsibility for protecting the environment in Iran, including the natural and human environment. The natural environment refers to natural areas such as rivers, forests, pastures, coastal areas, etc. Human environment refers to the human habitats where people enjoy natural blessings and resources and dispose their waste and refuse including solid, liquid and gas. A clear division of environment into natural and human environments is not possible. DOE has the responsibility to 'guarantee wise and permanent use of the environment in compliance with sustainable development' as well as 'preventing the destruction and pollution of the environment, and taking decisive action to control critical environmental situations including extreme pollution'. The functions of the DoE will, in connection this project, mainly include I supervision, monitoring and in some cases enforcement of the environmental regulations.

Regional development programs are prepared by the provincial ministry offices and submitted to 1 the central government and respective ministries for approval. After review and modifications, the regional development programs are consolidated into the NationalDevelopment Program, which is then submitted for approval. The individual programs and associated budgets are then passed to each ministry for implementation.

I' I

2-12 9/16/2004 3 Project Description: I Alborz Integrated Land and Water Management Project This project description of the Alborz Integrated Land and Water Management Project I (AILWMP) is based on the project preparation documents prepared by GOI prior to the appraisal stage. Revisions to or adjustments of the project, its components and/or its sub- components may be made before project commencement.

3.1 Project Title The proposed project was formerly referred to as Pashakola Integrated Land and Water Man- agement Project, but in December 2003, the GOI requested that the name of the project be changed to the Alborz Integrated Land and Water Management Project.

1 3.2 Objectives and Justification The overall objective for the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran in relation to the AILWMP is to provide water for sustainable development of the region in such a way that the 1 agricultural potentials of the area are realized, the available water is used optimally, and all the country's need for rice is met. In addition, the environmental and social conditions in the project area will be improved.

During the winter and springtime, the Babol River carries some 130 million m3 (mcm) water through a short distance between Azarood and Babolsar and discharges that into the Caspian I Sea. Flooding from the river is common in this period. During the first two months of the summer, when water is vital for the rice fields, the river carries very little flow. The justification for the project is therefore to store the rainfall from winter and springtime in the Alborz reservoir I and release this for irrigation in summer. The lower project area, between the Alborz Mountains and the Caspian Sea are currently irrigated using traditional methods, but often suffer from water shortages in summer. The soils are excellently suited for rice cultivation. However, in order to prevent soil salinization, construction of an effective drainage system is included.

At present, planning and management of water resources are not carried out in an integrated I manner and a basin approach is not applied. In order to optimise utilisation of the dam and irrigation and drainage network, comprehensive capacity building of relevant institutions (including the water users) is of prime importance. In addition, the project will take social and envi-

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ronmental impacts into consideration and mitigate these in compliance with the development objectives of the government.

The development objective of the AILWMIP proposed project is therefore to enhance current government efforts to achieve sustainable integrated land and water management at the river basin level through:

* Sustainably increasing agricultural productivity through the improved irrigation and drainage system and participatory management mechanism; * Reducing soil erosion and sediment yields into the Alborz Dam, which is currently under con- I struction using the GOI funds, through the improved upper watershed management; and * Protecting the water environment downstream of the Babol River and other water bodies through 3 improved hydrological / water quality monitoring, reservoir operation, and pest management.

The project will ensure the sustainable management of water resources throughout the Alborz River Basin in Mazandaran Province. Improving the management of forests and rangeland in the upper I watershed of the Alborz Dam will reduce watershed degradation, soil erosion and siltation, thereby benefiting all stakeholders in the rural and urban areas downstream. By including water users in farm-level Water Users Associations (WUA), the development offorest cooperatives at the micro- * catchment level, and a Basin Water Committee (BWC), the project adopts the subsidiarity principle and supports decision making on water resources management and implementation at the lowest appropriate administrative and institutional levels. A comprehensive river basin development approach will facilitate solutions to basin-level water allocation and water quality problems, which will eventually lead to better natural resource management and conservation.

I The design of the project represents an attempt to solve inter-sectoral water conflicts of ground and surface water allocation and usage in an efficient, economic and equitable manner for long-term implementation. This will provide valuable lessons for potential replication in other river basins of the

country in the forthcoming 4th Five-Year Development Plan of the GOI. 3.3 Project Location

Project Area 3 The project area, shown in Figure 3.1, includes the: (i) upper watershed lands, covering temperate forests and alpine rangelands; (ii) middle lands, which are comprised of irrigated valley bottoms and mostly degraded forests on hill sides; and (iii) lower lands, which are composed of irrigated plains I close to the Caspian Sea. In all, the AILWMP covers a total area of 1,347 kmi2, of which the upper watershed covers 346 kM2, the middle lands 110 km2, and the lower lands 891 km2.

3 The upper watershed ranges from mountain tops at 3,300 meters a.s.l. down to the Alborz Dam site at 190 meters a.s.l. The middle section is defined as the area between the Alborz Dam and the be- ginning of the main irrigation canal, at an elevation of 150 meters a.s.l. The lower lands are located 4 between 150 to -25 meters a.s.l (Caspian Sea coast). They are densely populated and predominantly used for irrigation agriculture. The six main cities of the project area (Babol, Babolsar,

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Amirkola, Azizkia, Joybar and Bahmanmir) are also located in the lower lands, where the vast majority of the 1 million population in the project area lives (1).

It should be noted that the Alborz Dam falls within the project area; however, it is not a component of the AILWMP itself. The AILWMP was developed to mitigate potential negative impacts and en- | hance positive impacts of the dam on the surrounding environment. However, since the dam falls within the project area of the AILWMP, a due diligence was conducted on the dam prior to project 3 inception.

Extended Project Area I In addition to the above, there is also an extended project area which encompasses the entire catchment of the Talar and Siah Rivers in addition to the Babol River, as illustrated in Figure 3.2. I Due to the hydrological connection that exists between the extended project area and the lower lands in the main project area, activities in the former will influence conditions in the latter, but not vice versa. For this reason, project activities include a limited hydrological data collection program I in the extended project area in order to provide inputs to water balance modeling and forecasting analyses in the project area. I I I' I l I l

(1) Of this population, approximnately 214,000 (the rural population) will be beneficiaries of the AILWMP, in addition to approximately 3400 inhabitants in the upper watershed.

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I, I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ l 3.4 Project Components The AILWMP will comprise the following five components:

1. Upper Watershed. Forestry and Rangeland Management (Base Cost - US$ 13 million): This will include: (i) technical assistance for preparing an upper watershed master plan and capacity building for community management organizations; (ii) forest and rangeland rehabilitation and management including nursery construction and natural / artificial stands regeneration (51,500 ha); and (iii) soil and water protection measures, such as gabion check structures and other vegetative measures, over the upper watershed area. This component aims at establishing effective soil and water protection measures by improving sustainable and participatory community-based forest and rangeland management including the establishment of cooperatives in the upper watershed;

2. Irrigation and Drainage Management (Base Cost - US$ 130 million): This will include: (i) rehabilitation and construction of irrigation and drainage systems covering a total area of about 52,000 ha, comprising 33,000 ha of traditional irrigation areas, and 19,000 ha of new irrigation areas which are currently being rainfed with supplementary irrigation by groundwater; (ii) capacity building and technical assistance for establishment of WUAs to manage secondary networks and cost recovery of O&M expenditures, and (iii) agricultural extension and research activities to support farmers for improved water management, crop diversification and increased income. This component aims at supporting the enhancement of irrigation water use efficiency and agriculture production/income by rehabilitation and modernization of the irrigation/drainage systems, together with improved O&M, diffusion of participatory water management, and training and support for agriculture extension/research.

3. Integrated Water Resources Management (Base Cost - US$ 7 million): This component will finance: (i) technical assistance to establish a Basin Water Committee (BWC); (ii) a Basin Water Fund (BWF) providing assistance for community based activities for water and natural resource conservation, and (iii) the establishment of a support system that enables the BWC to discharge its mandate of involving stakeholders by sharing information on environmental impacts, benefits of the project, and promoting water conservation in the basin.

4. Environment Management (Base Cost - US$ 8.5 million!: This will include the following subjects as identified in the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP): (i) water quality monitoring in rivers, aquifers and ab-bandans, (ii) river ecology monitoring and mitigation; (iii) forest monitoring and management; (iv) an integrated pest management plan; (v) resettlement instruments; (vi) a dam safety plan; (vii) physical cultural property; and (viii) public participation and awareness raising. These will be provided in the form of technical assistance for special studies, monitoring equipment provision and capacity building trainings for governmental staff and users as well as pri- oritized mitigatory measures.

5. Proiect Implementation and Coordination Support (Base Cost - US$ 4 million): This component will provide support for project implementation and coordination at the national and basin level. The component will also provide institutional support for MOJA and MGRWC including strategic sectoral and feasibility studies for future projects.

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The total cost of the project including physical and financial contingencies is estimated at about US$ 213 million. It is expected that the IBRD loan would be US$ 140 million with the remainder I funded by GOI counterpart financing and beneficiary contributions.

The five components and their associated sub-components are described in detail below.

AILWMP Component 1: Upper Watershed and Forestry Management (Base Cost US$13 million) This component addresses problems of rural poverty and natural resource degradation. The Alborz Watershed located in the northern slopes of the Alborz Mountain Range of Iran includes five sub- I catchments covering a total area of 500 square kilometers. In parts, these catchments are still densely forested but in other parts already heavily degraded. Widespread encroachment, unsustainable grazing and timber harvesting practices as well as illegal logging pose significant immediate and future threats to the ecological integrity of the watershed and, if unchecked, will lead to large- scale degradation of the fragile mountainous ecosystems and cause negative effects on downstream agricultural areas. The specific objectives of this component, hence, are to (i) reduce erosion and * sedimentation in the upper watershed with a particular focus on protecting the Alborz Dam reservoir; (ii) restore and protect natural rangeland and forests; and (iii) increase productivity and incomes of communities and forest cooperatives in the area.

These objectives will be pursued through the following sets of interventions: (i) construction of water and soil erosion structures, such as gabion check dams and biological protection measures; (ii) I restoration of alpine rangelands through seeding, closures and participatory grazing control regimes; (iii) improving forest productivity through replanting and subsequent protection of cut-over areas and degraded stands; (iv) facilitating forest management improvements through the adoption of a I1 community forestry approach and new silvicultural and timber management and marketing; (v) improving upland communities' livelihoods through introducing alternative income-generating measures; and (vi) ensuring increased responsibility and involvement of local communities in the plan- mng and management of natural resources in the upper watershed.

The component will extensively draw on the implementation experiences and lessons learned of the I Eastern Anatolia Watershed RehabilitationProject (EA WRP) in Turkey, which is considered a flag- ship project for the Bank demonstrating best practices in watershed management, and other similar projects. The EA WRP successfully piloted key features of participatory watershed rehabilitation, U biodiversity conservation and resources management in geo-morphological and socio-economic set- tings similar to those prevailing in the Alborz Mountains. The lessons of the EA WRP would need to be adapted to the specific context in Iran in order to be replicated.

The interventions envisaged under this component are designed as a continuous process that allows for flexibility and adaptation as the project evolves. Initial community awareness building and par- I ticipatory planning would be followed by the implementation of forest and rangeland rehabilitation measures. The speed of implementation would need to determined according to priorities set by communities and in agreements with the local government departments. The sustainable manage- *Iment of the resource base would need to ensure that adequate production, income and employment levels are achieved through the project.

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The means for implementation of this component would be through an interactive planning process, whereby the local implementing agencies, such as the Forest, Rangeland and Watershed Organiza- tion (FRWO) and the Department of Environment (DOE), work together with local communities to prepare and implement plans across micro-catchments, specifying interventions for soil and water protection, improved range management and forest rehabilitation, and income generation measures. The proposed participatory community-driven approach for the upper watershed includes the following sub-components:

Sub-component 1: Participatory watershed design, community planning and capacity building Participatory community organization and intervention design and phasing will be conducted during the first two years of the project to lay the groundwork for subsequent implementation. Design exercises will be conducted separately for the respective sub-catchments areas and will build on existing community and cooperative institutions. Where those institutions do not exist, the design exercise would elaborate and recommend adequate forms of community organization. Technical expertise and the long-standing relationship between upland communities/cooperatives and the local forestry and watershed protection department will be crucial in this regard. Specifically, the sub-component would include: (i) the development of an overall framework including micro-catchment plans for mechanical water and soil protection structures and other infrastructure measures such as access roads according to needs and priorities of local communities; (ii) awareness building, organization and training of upland communities to enhance capacity in organizing management of rangeland and forests and to form a partnership with the FRWO and the DOE; (iii) agreement on mechanisms to develop annual work plans and budget plans and to monitor implementation progress; (iv) socio- economic baseline studies in order to subsequently monitor community impacts; and (v) technical training, study tours and equipments for project staff from the FRWO and DOE.

Sub-component 2: Soil and water protection structures Given the severity of current debris flow and amounts of silt loads transported in the tributaries of the upper watershed, mechanical soil and water protection measures would be constructed to control sediment inflow within the upper and medium segments of the main streams. Based on the priorities to be developed in the watershed design framework and micro-catchment plans, the sub-component would aim at facilitating the construction of light erosion control works at higher elevations as well as gabion check dams in the middle ranges to retain sediment and reduce the influx of silt into the Alborz reservoir. The planning and implementation of such measures would ensure that communities are to the largest extent possible involved in the process and benefit in form of short-term income opportunities.

Sub-component 3: Rangeland and Forest Conservation and Management Interventions in the alpine areas would focus on rangeland restoration, increased productivity, and the introduction of participatory grazing management regimes. Specific activities would include: (i) enrichment seeding and fertilizing of degraded rangeland capable of increased production; (ii) maintenance of natural springs and installation of water pipes and animal troughs; and (iii) introduction of a rotational grazing management systems based on participatory planning process. In the forested areas, focus would be on rehabilitation of degraded and over-logged forest stands and to increase overall productivity of forest and timber management operations. Specific activities would include: (iv) the rehabilitation of degraded natural stands; (v) the replanting and protection of forest clear- ings; (vi) assisted natural and artificial stand regeneration; (vii) protection and thinning operations to maintain and enhance productivity of natural forest stands; (viii) forest road construction and maintenance in areas where the current road network is underdeveloped and poses a significant bottle-

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l neck toward sustainable forest management; and (ix) technical assistance to the local forestry department and forest cooperatives to enhance quality of timber production, including fuelwood and industrial timber, and marketing.

Community income support activities (Basin Water Fund under component 3.2) I Soil and water protection measures and forest rehabilitation activities would serve as short-term income sources for local communities. These, however, would need to be complemented by additional income generating activities to sustain and improve livelihoods in the upper watershed in the me- | dium and long-term. Depending on the particular preferences and needs, communities as well as individual villagers would be offered a menu of interventions for implementation. Investment support would be provided on a cost-sharing basis through the Water Basin Fundtogether with techni- I cal assistance. The FRWO/DOE would assist local communities in prioritizing activities, approach- ing the fund, securing investments, and monitoring impacts against the upper watershed socioeco- nomic baseline study.

As communities and villagers will determine their medium-term priorities in the course of the overall community framework development, the specific costs of supporting income generation activi- I ties cannot be determined in advance with satisfactory accuracy. During preparation and appraisal, the mission suggested that a total amount of around US$2 million would be allocated under the 3 BWF for community development interventions in the upper watershed.

The broad menu of possible interventions would include: (i) forest management equipment and investment support for small-scale timber processing facilities to strengthen efficiency of harvesting I operations, product specification and marketing; (ii) support to innovative livestock breeding through strengthening extension services for cattle breeding, chicken production, pen feeding, forage production and conservation, and genetic upgrading of the livestock population; (iii) support to I horticulture on farmland plots to produce high value fruit, nuts etc., to meet household demand or serve local markets; (iv) investment support and training to develop and manage eco-tourism facilities around the Alborz Dam site and forest protected areas, such as basic infrastructure, restaurants, I guesthouses, forest trails, hunting lots etc.; (v) extension and investment support to dryland agriculture such as the construction of small-scale terraces to reduce erosion and runoff and retain soil moisture; (vi) promotion of food and forage legumes (chickpeas, lentils, vetch) on existing fallow *Iland to enhance soil fertility and expand food production and the availability of forage; (vii) promotion of fuel-efficient household heating and cooking stoves and development of community fuel- 3 wood plantations to reduce its consumption from natural forests. AILWMP Component 2: Irrigation and Drainage Management (Base Cost US$130 million) The objective of the project's irrigation and drainage management component is to increase agricul- I tural production and incomes in the areas of intervention by (i) rehabilitating and expanding irrigation and drainage systems to improve irrigation water use efficiency and productivity, (ii) instituting participatory irrigation management (PIM) and sustainable operation and maintenance (O&M) through relevant institutional developments and training, and (iii) implementing irrigated agriculture extension and improvement programs. This would be achieved by: I (1) Implementing the irrigation and drainage system rehabilitation and development works to serve a total area of about 52,000 ha, of which about 33,000 ha are traditional irrigation areas and about 19,000 ha would be new irrigation areas including main, secondary, tertiary canals and on farm development (US$ 118.1 million);

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(2) Promoting socio-institutional developments for sustainable O&M, the establishment of I about 10 Water User Associations (WUAs) covering the full development area, and training of system users and operators in Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM) and O&M (US$ 6.5 * million); and

(3) Strengthening the agricultural advisory and extension services, as a basis for support and assistance to farmers in achieving increased irrigated agriculture production and water conserva- I tion through improved use of water, irrigation techniques and pest management (US$ 5.1 million). 3 ProiectBackground The project will, by utilizing the water of the new Alborz Dam, irrigate an area of 51,000 ha which is currently suffering from shortage of irrigation water, in addition to providing an adequate drain- I age system. The area also benefits from storage capacity of about 134 ab-bandans, which are small service reservoirs built to store floodwater from the rivers, for use in irrigation during the dry seasons. The three main rivers have about 350 streams off-taking to irrigate the traditional irrigation * areas on which there are also about 270 motorized pumps to lift water for irrigation when the river water levels drop below gravity command levels. There are furthermore about 21,690 wells discharging about 250 million cubic meters per annum for irrigation use. The present cropping inten- * sity in the project area is about 110% with rice being the main cash crop. It is intended to increase the cropping intensity with the project for the improved traditional irrigated areas to 126% and in the new development areas, to between 133% and 145%, for the various cropping patterns reviewed in the project feasibility studies.

Subcomponent 1: Irrigation/Drainage System Rehabilitation and Development I The projected physical infrastructure development forms part of a long-standing Mazandaran province water resources development plan, and in particular is linked to the Alborz Dam development. The Alborz Dam, currently under construction, is located on the Babol River upstream from (to the * south of) the development area. Below the dam and to the north on the same river, at the top (southwest) end of the development area, construction of the Gange-Afrooze diversion weir, and of the first 3.7 km of a right bank Main Conveyance Canal (MCC) to serve the development area, is also I ongoing. Construction of a further 8.9 km of the MCC is planned to commence prior to project initiation. The irrigation and drainage infrastructure works to be implemented under the project are intended to rehabilitate, improve and supplement (but not normally to replace) the traditional irrigation systems, and to provide full modern surface water irrigation systems for the currently rainfed agriculture areas.

I While the traditional water management system by local water masters called mirabs and abiar would be retained and provide the basis for future water management, it is not suited to cope with the current demands of modern water management. The mirabs conduct water distribution for lower I canal system empirically at intakes and turnouts by controlling water levels through stop logs and makeshift weirs made of stone, earth, or wooden boards according to the abdang (pre-fixed distribution ratio.) Furthermore, no measurement facility is equipped to handle existing intakes and turnouts. The introduction of a more advanced water distribution system will increase overall water distribution efficiency while a modern measurement facility will be able to monitor delivered water volume more efficiently, constituting the basis for future volumetric water charges.

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The sub-component will also include a pilot on-farm water management and benchmarking program as well as participatory M&E activities. The objectives of the program are to: (i) improve the efficiency of on-farm water application through proper water management and precise land leveling, (ii) organize farmers into irrigating and cultivating the tertiary block units under a pre-arranged rotation schedule, (iii) assure timely and frequent maintenance of tertiary canals, I drains, and on-farm ditches, (iv) introduce other irrigation methods for various crops such as furrow and pressurized irrigation, and (v) carry out participatory M&E programs to demonstrate project impacts.

Representative tertiary blocks would be selected at upper and lower ends of the system with a different mix of crops. The tertiary laterals of these blocks would be provided with water measuring * devices and simple control structures for diversion of water to the quaternary laterals and the farm ditch. The procedure and program related to surveys, field measurements and monitoring would be established by irrigation consultants who would also train field technical staff of MJAD during the initial phase of project implementation. Irrigation water measurement and water charges collection based on volumetric water use will be conducted on a pilot basis in the new area. Other benchmarking exercises will also be conducted in detail to formulate benchmark data and subsequent M&E programs.

Sub-Component 2:Institutional Development for Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM)

InstitutionalEstablishment The socio-institutional development program is intended to establish and/or consolidate a rational * organizational framework and capacity for sustainable PIM and O&M, such that the water using communities on the one hand and the OMC on the other hand can assume joint system management responsibilities and activities to their mutual benefit. To this end, an initial awareness, information I dissemination, consensus-building and water user mobilization process will be undertaken at village level. Legally-constituted WUAs are then to be formed at secondary or primary system levels (cor- responding to command area sizes normally in the order of 4,000 ha), and contractual arrangements * and procedures between the WUAs and the RWA/OMC are to be established to cover water deliver- ies, irrigation management, systems O&M, provision of irrigation and drainage services, and payment of fees. To a great extent this will, in the traditional irrigation system areas, formalize and I strengthen the already existing current arrangements. WlUAs in these areas are normally to be formed around one or more river irrigation intakes and would assume management responsibilities for the systems served by these intakes. The MCC and other new conveyance systems, for which I the OMC will assume management responsibilities, will traverse these existing systems, but normally this will cause no major physical or operational changes to them other than the provision of a new water-taking point for supplementary irrigation flow supply. The river intakes and conveyance I canal outlets will be the points of contact and transfer between the OMC and the WUAs. Within the new irrigation development areas, to be served by two lateral (branch) conveyance canals managed by the OMC, WUAs are in principle to be formed based on one or more primary canal outlets from I the lateral conveyance canals, but additional considerations will include command area sizes, final system layout characteristics and the relationship of these to village boundaries. I Implementation Approach For each WUA, it is required that prior to the construction of works relating to systems for which the W[JA will assume management and O&M responsibilities, it should (i) be legally constituted, (ii) have formalized contracts with the RWA/OMC to cover future irrigation and drainage services,

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systems O&M, water charge collection and (iii) have a formal WUA membership agreement and approval on record concerning the planned and designed works. Mechanisms will then be put in I place whereby the WUA can participate in works construction supervision and approval on matters that could affect its future systems management and O&M performance. Management and O&M training programs will continue during the period of construction, in preparation for commencement of these activities following completion of the works.

Following initial survey and consultant engagement activities, implementation of the physical infra- I structure works development program will proceed in parallel with the implementation of the socio- institutional development program. During the WUA establishment period, water user representatives would be involved in the initial social mobilization and training programs, and would also participate with the RWA/OMC and project consultants in the finalization and approval of surveys, plans and designs for infrastructure works layouts, rehabilitation, improvements and construction. I Training for PIM Support Training and capacity building programs are to be an integral part of the socio-institutional development program. In the first instance they will be aimed at conveying to the project stakeholders I the concepts of, reasons for, and previous relevant experiences elsewhere with, PIM and WUAs. This would support the key initial awareness, dissemination, consensus-building and mobilization activities. There would then be more informal general irrigation development training in conjunc- *Ition with the intended participatory planning, design and supervision approach to implementation of the infrastructure works. Also, during the process of establishment and then operational start-up and functioning of the WUAs, and of implementation of the infrastructure developments, formal training i * will focus on organizational and financial management and administration, and on water management and systems O&M. It is intended that, through both the RWA/OMC and the MJAD, expertise and advice on these topics would continue to be provided to WUAs on a long-term basis as needed, through irrigation management extension services to be initially supported by the project.

Study tours constitute an indispensable tool to gaining hands-on experience on WUA operation. Be- sides the in-country training program, it would be important to expose the main project staff and some WUA representatives to experiences in WUA development and transfer of irrigation management in other countries, especially those with similar economic conditions. This would provide insights into the requirements for accepting full responsibility for O&M and financial management of large service areas.

O&M Support The MJAD, MGRWA and the newly established BWC, with the assistance of consultants, would undertake a review of current and future projected O&M activities in order to: I (i) develop a program for adequate O&M while outlining requirements for staffing, equipment and financial resources; (ii) initiate the implementation of the agreed program and (iii) provide an adequate annual budget for O&M purposes. Items to be analyzed and reviewed include: maintenance I priorities, frequencies and schedules, work procedures and controls. Annual O&M activities would be carefully monitored and evaluated by the concerned agencies with the objective of improving management and procedures.

The project will provide some essential O&M equipment and spare parts for the WUAs. The issuing of any such equipment to the beneficiaries would be subject to the establishment and formalization of their WUA, of which 10 are anticipated in the project area. For each WIUA, the equipment will

3-12 I 9/16/2004 l l include two small tractor backhoe/loader type machines for clearing smaller canals and drains, forming the backbone of mechanized and decentralized O&M activities. The project will also provide two tractor/trailers with implements, two pick up trucks, a small office/ store with furnishing, to be the meeting point of the WUA, and small tools for O&M.

| As regards cost sharing of on farm works, it was agreed, in principle, that a cost sharing arrange- ment be put in place whereby on farm capital investments by the project (irrigation channels, on farm subsurface and surface drainage, land leveling works) are recovered from beneficiaries after a * three year grace period and a ten year interest free repayment period. It is suggested that this be organized through the WUAs and repayments may also be deposited into a revolving fund overseen by the BOD in the BWC. The money from this revolving fund may similarly be used after project completion for introduction of further improvements to existing infrastructure such as the introduction of modern pressurized irrigation systems including drainage and land leveling.

I Sub-Component 3: Agriculture Extension Service Support This sub-component will provide additional office and operational facilities, houses, vehicles, and special equipment for agricultural extension and research purposes, including farm machinery and * mobile film units will also be provided. To facilitate the introduction of new production technologies and crops, some equipment would be provided to be tested and introduced under research and extension programs carried out jointly by local research and extension staff. A pilot program to test * ways of developing a women's extension unit would be set up, building on the existing women's departments at the provincial level. Furthermore, integrated pest management training, which is funded under the environment management component, will be conducted by the agricultural extension service for farmers to encourage optimal use of pesticides and fertilizers for better agronomical and environmental aspects. I Extension Service The public extension service falls under the Extension and Farming Systems (EFS) Deputy of MOJA, which has the responsibility for overall administration, coordination and management of extension programs. In Mazandaran province, there are 15 Agricultural Service Centers (ASCs) with a total staff of 103 including about 10 women, of which 28 have BSc or MSc degrees. The ASCs serve some 396 villages in the project area with around 77,100 land owners. The functions of * the ASCs include not only the provision of extension advice for irrigation water, crop diversification, and pest management, but they also have other tasks such as the allocation of inputs and machinery and providing support to strategic government programs such as the land consolidation program.

The project would focus on providing enhanced extension services in order to allow the farmers to I take the best advantage of the irrigation and drainage improvements under the project. Furthermore, the project would provide support for women's activities under the extension sub-component. Good strides have already been made as a result of the IIP to establish a participatory demand-driven ser- * vice with improved farmer-extension-research linkages in Mazandaran Province (Tajan sub-project area), and the project would primarily support the efforts to widen and deepen these existing efforts in the Alborz area. The project would:

* Work with key farmers and cooperative groups through workshops and farmer-to-farmer field trips; * Prepare a number of mass media activities

3-13 * 9/16/2004 Establish demonstrations both for irrigation practices, crop diversification, livestock management and for women's activities; I * Carry out economic and social studies of extension programs; * Provide training, including overseas studies for experts and in-country training programs for 3 technical staff. Improved research-extension farmer linkages would be developed by supporting field research sites (including on-farm adaptive research sites) and by supporting a join extension-research program of non-farm adaptive research trials and demonstrations.

Women in Agriculture U Matters related to women in Agriculture are the responsibility of the Rural Women Affairs Office (RWAO) under the Extension and Farming Systems (EFS) Service in MOJA. In Mazandaran, the rural Women's Affairs Department falls within the Provincial Extension Service and consists of I three women specialists. Furthermore, there are a few women extension agents, with only 10 women out of the total of 103 staff in the 15 ASCs. Mazandaran is characterized by the important role of women on the farm. Farms are generally small with limited mechanization, so that women's I involvement in cultivation is increased. On average, 85% of the work done in rice fields is done by women, 80% for livestock and by-product production, 90% in handicrafts, and 30% in forestry. Health problems may also arise because of the high use of pesticides in rice and limited use of protective gear.

The project will provide assistance to the government's program to support rural women, primarily I through the extension program and the Rural Women's Office in Mazandaran. The program will place a woman extension officer in each ASC, along with a vehicle and driver, which would allow them to carry out programs specifically targeted for women. These extension officers will carry out J workshops and training programs in order to develop a network of 'key' women or pioneer women in the same way that there is already a network of key farmers. These women would act as facilita- tors at the village level to pass on information to other village women on technical issues, and on availability of extension programs and other support.

AILWMP Component 3: Integrated Water Resources Management (Base Cost US$7 I million) The objective of this component will be to facilitate coordination and planning across the entire basin and further developing the tools that all the organizations require in achieving a higher level of integrated basin planning and management. In particular, the needs are: (i) enhanced partnership among all stakeholders; (ii) sound knowledge of the basin's resources (data / information, systems, and models) for informed decision-making and optimized water distribution, and (iii) enhanced community-driven activities for water and natural resources management in the Basin. This component is subdivided into three sub-components: I * The Basin Water Council (BWC) * The Basin Water Fund (BWF) I * IWRM Support System establishment

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Sub-Component 1: The Basin Water Council 3 Roles and Responsibilities The project will assist the GOI in establishing a Basin Water Council (BWC) as a coordinating body between existing executing agencies, including the MGRWA and MJAD and with other stake- * J holders in the basin. The BWC will consist of representatives from the RWA, MJAD, MOE, MOJA, DOE, water users associations and community groups. The specific objectives and mandates of the BWC would be to:

* review current and emerging issues of land and water resources management on a basin scale in a comprehensive manner, * propose policies, strategies and action plans (in a form of a basin master plan in the end) in coordination with MJAD, MGRWA as well as stakeholders for improving resource management in the long term, I * serve as a focal point for monitoring the state of water and other natural resources, and changes, the project's impacts, disseminating the information for all agencies and stakeholders, and facilitating dialogue for concerted recommendations, * maintain a basin-wide water knowledge database accessible by the implementing agencies, and * support community-driven pilot activities for land and water conservation natural resources through the creation of a Basin Water Fund (BWF).

The BWC will have limited executive authority that will not conflict with the mandates of existing * government agencies, such as the MGRWA, MJAD, and MDOE and their day-to-day management activities. Specifically, the BWC would not interfere in: (i) irrigation, water supply or hydropower operations (as these will remain the primary responsibility of the existing agencies) and (ii) general water management functions such as water extraction licensing, issuance of waste water permits, and water quality monitoring, as these would all be handled by the MGRWA.

* Structure of the Basin Water Council The BWC will consist of the following entities: (i) Board of Directors, (ii) Coordination Com- 3 mittee, and (iii) a small Secretariat.

Board of Directors The Board of Directors (BOD) will serve as the executive body of the BWC. Its role and responsibilities would be to: (i) review and authorize the overall policy and strategic action plan for basin management and its institutional structure; (ii) oversee the development of new water knowledge database that will promote interaction between various agencies and serve as the basis for M&E activities and preparation of semi-annual progress reports; and (iii) develop and authorize the general procedure and criteria of the BWF and guide its operations. I The BOD will consist of representatives from the MGRWA, the MJAD's Irrigation Department and Forestry Department, the O&M Company, the Department of Environment, as well as two representatives from the upper watershed and downstream irrigation areas (WlUAs and Forestry Groups). The BOD would meet every other month.

3-15 I 9/16/2004 It was principally agreed with the GOI that: (i) the BWC will be approved as a legal entity by the Council of Ministers; (ii) an independent budget line will be established for the BWC separate from I those of MOJA and RWA; and (iii) the MOEF's financial controller will delegate its financial management responsibility to a designated official of the BWC. During the first year of project implementation the GOI will conduct further review and analyses regarding the institutional design of the BWC and the administrative arrangements of the BWF with the technical assistance from the Bank. The Bank will assist the GOI in organizing workshops with its WBI in order to review worldwide lessons and best practices not only with the MOE and MOJA but also MOEF and MPO.

CoordinatingCommittee The Coordinating Committee (CC) will serve as an overarching stakeholders forum and advisory * rather than an executing body. The objectives of the CC would be to: (i) discuss the current emerging issues and long-term basin management policies; (ii) enhance coordination among a broad range of stakeholders, seeking innovative ideas for land and water resources management; and (iii) discuss the project's impacts on water and other natural resources conditions basin-wide.

It was agreed that the CC will comprise the existing Government Stakeholder Representation Com- I mittee (GSRC) along with a newly created Community Stakeholder Representation Committee (PCSRC) consisting of 25 stakeholder representatives including MJAD, MGRWA, MDOE, aca- demics and representatives WUAs, Forestry Cooperatives and NGOs. The head of the Basin Water I Committee will be selected by rotation of the head of the MGRWA and MJAD. Where necessary, other members are co-opted on a temporary/permanent basis in order to provide the necessary link- | ages with other concerned agencies or to discuss specific issues.

B WC Secretariat A small Secretariat would be established to support the CC and BOD. The Secretariat will operate under the supervision of the BOD and consist of a manager, an accountant, an engineer, an agrono- mist, an M&E officer, a communication and social mobilization specialist, and a assistant in addition to seconded staff from MGRWA and MOJA.

The main functions of the Secretariat are to: (i) prepare materials for policy and strategic discussions on basin management for the BOD and CC; (ii) propose and regularly review the procedures I and criteria for BWF management and implementation; (iii) review the BWF funding proposals from communities and propose funding allocations for the BOD's approval; and (iv) incorporate the semi-annual progress reports from all concerned agencies with an emphasis on the M&E of the project's impacts.

I Sub-Component 2: Basin Water Fund

Obiective The objective of the Basin Water Fund (BWF) is to support community-driven pilot activities to improve water and land resources management and income generating activities to reduce the pres- 1 sure on natural resource exploitation. I 3-16 * 9/16/2004 The BWF will support the following activities: * assist local communities and users groups in conserving, rehabilitating and managing the natural resource in a sustainable manner through developing appropriate community-based institutions and mechanisms; 1 * promote techniques and sound practices for water use efficiency improvement, land and water quality conservation, sustainable and high value crop, horticulture and livestock production; * promote income generating activities through improved access to technical, financial and commercial services in order to support community development and 1 * address the environmental concerns in the day-to-day management of resources and ensure environmental dimensions (i.e, water quality improvement equipment, awareness raising activities and reducing chemical and pesticide use) while planning and undertaking development activities.

Implementation Procedure I The proposals to be submitted by community groups will be reviewed by the BWC Secretariat based on the previously agreed and accessible criteria and selection procedures. These need to be discussed by the CC and then approved by the BOD. A positive or negative list will be used to ensure a transparent and simple selection process. The criteria will also set budget caps for projects depending on their type and the beneficiaries. 1 To ensure that the Bank's overarching goal of poverty alleviation is supported by the project, it was agreed that the proceeds of the BWF would target the poor as the primary beneficiaries in the region. The PIU will review this matter and establish the appropriate guidelines for the definition of small farmers, herders and foresters within the project area.

The BWF can finance goods and consultancy services for Phase I. Since it is not possible to determine the exact mix of goods and service to be procured, the detailed activities will be provided in the updated annual procurement plans. There will be no differentiation between this and other project components with respect to the use of procurement methods provided by the project. Projects I involving civil works will be included if the BWF runs well for the first two years of Phase I. These criteria will be reviewed during the review of Phase I based on the performance of the initial period. Furthermore, social mobilization activities for the WUAs and forestry cooperatives establishment I will provide opportunities to assess the needs and expectations that the BWF could support and to prepare its criteria and procedure.

The funded activities are principally subject to cost-sharing from the beneficiaries and their community groups. The extent of cost-sharing will depend on the type of activities and will be determined during the initial period of project implementation. It is suggested that all repayments will I allow a three year grace period followed by a ten year repayment period of the capital, interest free. The recovered costs will be deposited into a separate account from the project SA. I A separate account is opened in a commercial bank for the revolving fund in order to receive the beneficiary portion of the costs. The commercial bank keeps accounts and releases funds. The ini- 3 tial capital will be provided by the IBRD loan and the CLO will procure consultancy services, goods

3-17 J 9/16/2004 or works for beneficiary groups in coordination with the MJAD and MGRWC. The beneficiaries 1 will repay their portion (subtracting subsidized portion) into the revolving fund account. Sub-Component 3: IWRM Support System Development The IWRM supporting system will be developed including: (i) Basin-wide water balance simulatory modeling; (ii) Optimized water distribution system development from reservoir to field plots; (iii) Basin-wide water knowledge database development; and (iv) Water right provisory and volumetric I water charge systems interaction on a pilot basis. (i) Basin Wide Water Balance Simulatory Modeling

| A comprehensive surface and groundwater model will be required in order to enable simulation of the water balance for the entire basin based on different operational scenarios. The GOI developed a surface water simulation model from the Alborz Dam based on a monthly basis, which is however not a suitable tool to grasp the more complicated and dynamic water regime changes in the water system covering the Babol and Talal Rivers, aquifer systems, and ab-bandans ponds. Besides, the aquifer model developed is a separate one which would not provide clear ideas about the potential * impacts of increased surface water irrigation, potentially increased groundwater recharge, and water quality implications. A comprehensive water model will be developed during the initial year of the project to ascertain all the interlinkages between dam operation, changes of surface water regime, I aquifer table changes, and possible water pollution by increased chemical use. This model will enable checking of the impacts from various types of reservoir operations so that the optimized water distributions system can taken into account these factors.

(ii) Optimized Dam Reservoir Operation System I Technological advancements in hydrologic data collection, stream flow forecasting, modeling and computer technology can provide opportunities for adjusting daily reservoir operations according to actual water demands. With effective use of real-time data and computer models, the operation of I the Alborz Dam in combination with diversion weirs and the canal network can be upgraded to provide operators with a decision support system whereby reservoir water releases would be optimized to meet water requirements downstream. A consultancy contract is planned to support the devel- I opment of new operational tools (computer models and monitoring equipment) grouped together with capacity building and training programs. The implementation of the system is best managed with the aid of computer models that allow real time, or near real time, decision making based on a regular flow of monitoring information. 3 (iii) Basin-wide Water Knowledge Database Development A new water knowledge database will be developed along with data acquisition, transmission and sharing system for monitoring/managing water supply and demand throughout the basin and the I transmission of that information in both directions between the MGRWC, OMC, BWC, and the WUAs and their representatives (i.e mirabs). Water quality and other water related environmental data should also be collected and stored in order to have a comprehensive database. The database I will be accessed by any stakeholder to understand the current water situation and to make various analytical and planning tasks for all relevant agencies, including the MGRWC, MJAD, MDOE, and other entities. Semi-annual summary reports on water and other natural resource conditions will be prepared by the BWC for information dissemination.

3-18 9/16/2004 I (iv) Water Right Provision and Volumetric Water Charge System Introduction The new water rights will be provided for the new irrigation area in exchange for a subscription fee I from the farmers. Iran has not had much experience in water rights given the modem water law. The project would provide technical support for making inventories of all these water rights with clear definition of water use volume and periods. This would also provide an opportunity to develop wa- 1 ter rights and charges based on volumetric use of water in pilot areas in order to encourage users to improve water productivity and crop diversification.

| AILWMP Component 4: Environment Management (Base Cost US$8.5 million) The basic concept of this component is to ensure the mitigation of possible negative impacts of the GOI's ongoing Alborz Dam and irrigation / drainage network development project, as well as the Bank's Integrated Land and Water Management Project. The latter would help complement the institutional development of the original project through intensive technical assistance capacity building support. The GOI has prepared a draft Environmental Social Assessment Report as well as the Environmental Management Plan in compliance with the Bank's seven triggered safeguards policies.

| Furthermore, the project aims to help resolve water related environmental issues on a basin scale. The water quality of Babol and Talar rivers is deteriorating due to increasing pollution loads from cities, such as Babol and Ghaem Shahr, industries, agricultural pesticides and fertilizer use. Many * factories are discharging waste water including heavy metals without proper treatment. Farmers are overusing pesticides and fertilizers due to inadequate agriculture extension services.

The GOI and the Bank are envisioning a waste water treatment facility building in Babol River under the second phase of the Urban Water and Sanitation Project. This project is expected to significantly reduce biological and chemical pollution loads from cities and surrounding areas in that ba- 1F sin. However, it would be difficult for the project alone to deal with all pollution issues such as untreated effluents from many small villages and overused chemicals for irrigation agriculture in vast areas of the basin and for ab-bandans ponds for aquaculture, which have been rapidly increasing since the past few years.

This component would provide essential technical assistance for specialized studies, capacity build- I ing and training programs for concerned government agencies staff, farmers and other stakeholders. It would also provide monitoring equipment so that those agencies and communities groups would be able to fulfill their duties and responsibilities for environmental monitoring and conservation in addition to meeting the requirements and mitigation measures identified in the ESA report.

Principally, the MGRWC and MJAD are the two project implementing agencies while the MDOE is I a beneficiary agency which would receive technical support from the project in the form of TA, equipment and training. Procurement will be undertaken by the project liaison office in coordination with the technical units of the regional agencies, including the MDOE, so that the TOR of technical studies, training programs, and equipment specifications can be formulated.

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While the DOE in Tehran is the regulatory agency responsible for formulating environmental policies, by-laws, regulations, standards and monitoring the state of the environment, the MDOE is responsible for taking a lead and / or assisting other line ministries in developing policies, standards and plans related to the environmental aspects in coordination with those agencies in Mazandaran Province. The MDOE is also in charge of research, environmental planning, monitoring and enforcement related to environmental conservation.

The MGRWC, MJAD, and MDOE, are supposed to share collected data, information and results of a their analyses (under their respective mandates) on water quantity and quality and other environment related aspects. The newly created BWC will serve as a focal point and depository to facilitate data sharing and disclosure to a broad range of stakeholders. The system will be designed and built together with the optimized water distribution system covering the Alborz Dam, diversion weirs, irrigation networks, and through farm fields under Component 3.

| The water and environment related data, information and analytical results and other M&E surveys will be summarized as a report on a semi-annual basis by the BWC and sent to the CLO, and eventually to the Bank. The shared information will not only assist the governmental agencies in fulfill- ing their respective responsibilities but also raise the awareness of the general public regarding environmental concerns and the impacts of mitigation measures to be taken by the project.

| As a starter the analytical results of water pollution sources and loads mapped out on the GIS database can be posted on the Internet website together with water quality data from upstream watersheds to the mouth of the rivers. Such a tool could have enormous impacts on behavioral change. 1 Polluters highlighted in the public data base as "red" warning would likely take immediate actions to reduce pollution loads. Furthermore, community-based pilot activities for water quality improvement and conservation would be supported through the Basin Water Fund under Component 3.

Regarding the sub-components, through the preparation process of the EMP, this component is structured based on the seven pillars: (i) water quality monitoring, (ii) ecological studies in rivers * and ab-bandans including migratory fish and birds, (iii) forests and rangeland conservation, (iv) pest management plan, (v) involuntary resettlement, (vi) dam safety plan, and (vii) public participation, awareness raising and consultation.

Sub-Component 1. Water Ouality Monitoring Inadequate monitoring and enforcement capability are seriously undermining water quality monitor- *Iing and management. The MGRWC, MJAD and MDOE are conducting water monitoring based on their respective responsibilities. For instance, the MGRWC is in charge of water resources monitoring (both surface and groundwater), MJAD is in charge of water quality monitoring of ab-bandans I which are historically owned by groups of farmers, while the MDOE is responsible for water quality monitoring under its mandate to protect public health and natural resources.

| However, a reliable water quality dataset is lacking. The GOI was not able to conduct a full assessment of the water quality situation in the Babol and Talar rivers, aquifers, and ab-bandans water due to insufficient reliable data, although initial diagnostic results indicated that water quality is de- I teriorating and major efforts are required to prevent further worsening and serious impacts on human health and the ecosystem. I 3-20 I 9/16/2004 1~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

These issues are clearly attributed to insufficient monitoring equipment, government staff capacity and training opportunities. In particular, the MDOE has limited capacity for environmental regulation enforcement and compliance review. Coordination among those three agencies is also lacking, thus preventing effective data sharing and synergetic effects generation on a basin scale.

| In order to address these issues, the project will help strengthen the agencies' capacities to monitor water quality and improve compliance with water and other environmental issues in the EMP. The project will provide essential water quality monitoring equipment based on the professional's as- *Isessment report (R. Kayal, October 2003). Additional TA will be provided for the agencies to prepare and agree on the monitoring plans, technical specification of monitoring equipment as well as the data sharing protocol through the BWC and the basin-wide water knowledge database.

Special technical studies under component 3 will cover basin-wide water resources assessment and modeling including river flows, aquifers and ab-bandan water. The above-mentioned report also in- * dicated that aquifer table and quality also seems to be declining due to groundwater over-abstraction for irrigation, sea water intrusion and salinization, increased pesticide and fertilizer use. All these elements are interconnected to each other on a basin scale and warrant a sophisticated comprehen- I sive simulation model which enables decision makers (government representatives and stakeholders) to ascertain the impacts given various water use scenarios and other surrounding condi- I tions.

Such a model would not only help fine-tune the project design during implementation but also help assess the global water resources situation on the basin scale, inform all layers of stakeholders of the * results in a visualized manner and allow the responsible agencies (including the BWC) to take appropriate measures in mitigating potential negative impacts in full consultation with the stake- | holders.

Sub-Component 2: Ecological Monitoring and Study A comprehensive set of ecological monitoring, survey and analytical studies is proposed for rivers J and ab-bandans to constitute a solid baseline data related to ecology. For instance, the current condition of migratory fish, such as sturgeons, as well as their behavior and possible measures allowing them to swim up the rivers, would need to be studied in order to support the GOI Fishing Depart- I ment efforts to recover the fish into the rivers. They are releasing the fry of those fish on a pilot commercial basis. Migratory birds in ab-bandans should also be studied in terms of their types, be- haviors and possible protective measures. This study is not necessarily a requirement to mitigate the project's impacts but rather a supporting tool for the GOI's effort, particularly the MDOE, to maintain and enhance the valuable ecosystem in the basin.

| Sub-Component 3: Pest Management High use of pesticides and its impacts on the water environment and public health is a concern for the government and local population. The GOI has been gradually shifting the responsibility of pro- *Icurement and application of pesticides to farmers while tightening the regulation on use and marketing, while encouraging judicious pesticide use and integrated pest management, especially biocontrol. The project will provide training, capacity building, and equipment in order to enhance the I advisory capacity of the extension service in combination with other agriculture advisory and research activities. The project would also provide support for awareness raising campaigns to dis- 5 seminate information on the proper use of pesticides and harmful impacts to educate the farmers.

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Subcomponent 4: Forest and Ranzeland Management An integrated management approach for the upper watershed area including forests and rangeland I areas will be conducted under Component 1. Technical assistance, including the master planning work, equipment, and training programs will be provided by the project. In particular, coordination will be ensured between the Forestry and Watershed Management Department of MJAD and the * MDOE will be ensured and strengthened through the process of master planning, monitoring and evaluation. No particular budget is allocated under component 4, while part of component 1 constitutes the sentential part of the EMP in terms of monitoring and evaluation.

Subcomponent 5: Involuntary Resettlement With regard to the involuntary resettlement safeguard policy, the Resettlement Action Plan for res- I ervoir inundation area and Policy Frameworks for upper watershed and downstream irrigation areas have been prepared as part of the ESA and ESMP. Since all the associated costs for the involuntary resettlement safeguard policy will be borne by the GOI without any cost sharing from this project, * they are not included in this component. However, monitoring and compliance review will be conducted by the CLO and the Bank's supervision missions based on the progress report to be prepared by the line agencies (MGRWC and MJAD).

Subcomponent 6. Dam Safety A Panel of Experts for Dam Safety was held in February 2004 by the MOE in order to ensure the I quality design and construction work of the Alborz Dam, safety related instrumentation, O&M and emergency preparedness plans in compliance with the dam safety safeguard policy. The panelists visited the Alborz Dam under construction as well as three existing dams in order to examine the *Isite conditions and identity required measures to secure dam safety during construction and operational periods.

| The POE recommended the following measures: (a) continuation of POE meetings during implementation, (b) staff training for quality control and O&M including national workshops and seminars, (c) preparation of the O&M and emergency preparedness plans, (d) technical studies for seismic risk analysis, and (e) contingency budget for emergency survey and repair work.

Given the number of dams under construction and planning including heavy reliance on water use I on dams in Iran, the project would provide technical support for efficient dam reservoir operation and safety management on a country level in addition to direct support for monitoring and compliance review of the safeguard policy. The POE will be convened periodically in order to provide guidance on the implementation of this sub-component.

Subcomponent 7. Public Participation.Consultation and Awareness Raising This sub-component will deal with the issues not addressed in the above sub-components as well as the integration aspects of environmental management. The project will provide support for awareness raising activities including seminars, leaflets / brochures / videos/TV spots production and circulation. This sub-component is focused on the water related environment aspects led by the MDOE in consultation with other agencies through the BWC mechanism.

I A A communication needs assessment was carried out during the May 2004 mission and the TOR for a communications strategy and international / national specialists were prepared. Accordingly, the project will provide support to MOJA, MGRWC, and DOE in designing and implementing the

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communications strategy to effectively engage in a dialogue with their respective stakeholders and I concerned constituents.

The communication program will be developed with a baseline study on public perception, knowledge and behavior towards environment issues. A monitoring and evaluation system will be established to detect any changes in the baseline indicators and determine the effectiveness of the investment in the communication program.

| AILWMP Component 5: Project Implementation and Coordination Support Technical Assistance for CLO and PlUs (Base Cost US$4 million)

The project would provide consultant assistance for the CLO in Tehran as well as two PIUs in MGRWC and MJAD and a small secretariat in the BWC in Mazandaran Province in order to strengthen their implementation capacity. Key international and national consultants would be hired in the area of irrigation and water resources management, environment management and procurement. Financial management, monitoring and evaluation, social and institutional specialists will also be hired. Other support staff will also be provided under the project. These specialists are expected to provide overall technical guidance and coordination over various project components and for the preparation of the project progress report, including the monitoring and evaluation, safeguards compliance and fiduciary aspects, to be submitted to the Steering Committee and the World Bank.

3 Training

The project would provide training for staff at the CLO, PIUs, and the BWC secretariat, and other associated government offices (MOJA, MOE, MPO, and DOE) in the area of project management, fiduciary functions (procurement and financial management), and overall technical aspects. Some specific technical training for provincial government staff and stakeholders in the area of water users associations, O&M, extension service and environment management would be provided under respective project components. Furthermore, on the job training would be conducted by various consultants engaged in design, specialized studies, construction supervision, agricultural and environmental aspects. The project would also provide for overseas training through short term visits and through participation in workshops and seminars on management and technical aspects relevant to the subject.

Office Support

The project would provide a minimum set of office buildings, furniture, equipment (computer and software), office supply, and vehicles. This would be in supplement to other incremental operating costs for office maintenance and staff travels for CLO and PRIs as well as a small secretariat of the BWC.

Future Project Preparation

I The project would provide technical assistance and training to MOJA and MGRWC in order for them to conduct strategic sector works and feasibility studies for future project preparation, sector- I wide planning and analysis for water resources, irrigation, agriculture and forestry aspects.

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3.5 Implementation, Institutional Oversight and Monitoring The project will be implemented by MOJA and the MGRWC. MOJA is responsible for on-farm and quaternary irrigation, drainage, agriculture extension as well as forestry and rangeland management. MOJA is a public entity that follows the laws and regulations applicable to the public sector in Iran. This part of the project will be mainly implemented by its provincial office, the Mazandaran Jihad and Agriculture Department (MJAD).

The MGRWC is responsible for the diversion weir and trunk irrigation networks from the main to the tertiary canals system. The MGRWC operates as a private sector entity based on the principles and procedures of the GOI's trading law. However, all capital investments for MGRWC are financed by the central government as grants to MGRWC. Accordingly, the project funds being channeled as grants to MGRWC will be subject to the budget law instead of the trading law under which the company operates.

A national Steering Committee (SC) has been established to oversee project implementation and coordination between various institutions. The SC is chaired by the Vice Minister of MOEF and includes the Vice Ministers of MOJA and MOE, the General Director for Water Resources from the Management and Planning Organization (MPO), and General Director of the Central Bank of Iran.

The CLO has been established to coordinate various activities between MOJA and MGRWC. The functions of the CLO will include: (i) liaising with the Bank on behalf of the GOI; (ii) serving as the secretariat of the SC; (iii) carrying out project management and coordination among the concerned agencies; (iv) carrying out and coordinating procurement actions; (v) performing financial management and reporting functions; (vi) carrying out technical studies and training programs; and (vii) preparing annual progress reports and work plans.

Two Project Implementation Units (PIUs) have already been established within MJAD and MGRWC respectively. The PIUs will: (i) coordinate with the CLO and other agencies at the field level; (ii) supervise actual project implementation; (iii) carry out respective procurement and financial management functions; and (iv) provide overall guidance to beneficiaries.

In order to support stakeholder participation at the lowest appropriate level, two other institutions will be established. First, the project will assist in establishing a BWC as the coordinating body between governmental agencies, NGOs and project beneficiaries. Second, the project will also support the establishment of legally-empowered and financially autonomous WLUAs under the Cooperatives Law. WUAs serve as the nucleus unit of community-based water management efforts.

The project will monitor and evaluate project implementation, including impacts on beneficiaries, water resources and natural resources management through the outcome and results indicators described in Annex 3.

The CLO will be responsible for coordinating all the M&E activities and preparing reports with the assistance of a consultancy service. The BWC will be responsible for sharing project information and data at the basin level. Data collection, analysis, and reporting will be conducted through: (i) an annual quantitative report for project indicators; (ii) semi-annual progress reports on implementation

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progress on all project components outputs, and (iii) periodic evaluations by external consultants and Bank supervision missions.

Staff responsible for M&E activities will be trained in data processing, storage, analysis, with stan- dardized methodologies and reporting formats through the consultancy service. Participatory M&E will assist in building users groups' capacities to monitor and evaluate project impacts in terms of productivity, sustainability, and customers' satisfaction. 3.6 Project Phases The AILWMP is a complex, multi-sector project that has components with considerable infrastructure development (irrigation and drainage network) and "softer" components on institutional capacity development and co-ordination. For some of the activities anticipated under the project further elaboration will be carried out in the first phase of the projects parallel to the starting up of others. Generally, the project can be illustrated in three phases depending on the component or sub-component.

Phase I The first phase (for the first one and half years) will mainly focus on the institutional establishment and capacity building of stakeholders and users management entities such as WUAs, FCs, the BWC and the BWF. In particular, the project would conduct massive social sensitization and mobilization activities for the establishment of WUAs and forestry cooperatives. The PIUs of MJAD and MGRWA will conduct consultations with those users groups in planning and designing of the branch canals (below secondary) at each step to determine water distribution blocks, canals alignment, gate types and operation modes, maintenance procedures, management responsibilities division and irrigation water charges.

In parallel, detailed design, bidding documents preparation, tendering, and construction works will be continued for the diversion weir, main conveyance canals, part of which is being constructed under the GOI financing. This will help the project to produce credible evidence of being able to deliver real and tangible benefits to farmers and promote farmers' interests in participatory irrigation management at the branch canal level.

Detailed schedules for the I&D systems at different hierarchical levels and areas as well as other components are indicated in separate Excel Tables. Those detailed schedules are prepared based on the timing and duration of procurement actions, social consultation and physical construction works.

Capacity building and training programs will be provided for the CLO and PIUs staff in order to familiarize them with the bank's administrative procedures and the new water management, as well as increase their logistical and administrative capacities. The training for users will also be initiated to diffuse the concepts of the participatory irrigation management. The application procedure of the BWF will also be promoted among the local population.

Various key technical studies will also be conducted including the M&E activities, water balance modeling, design of the GIS-based water data sharing system and optimized dam reservoir operation. An Upper Watershed Master Plan will be prepared with stakeholder participation which would serve as a basis for the forestry and rangeland management as well as project's intervention in that area. Other safeguards related to mitigation actions will also be initiated. These will include water

3-25 9/16/2004 quality monitoring, Resettlement Plans preparation in the upstream watershed and irrigation areas, convening the Panel of Experts meetings for dam safety, and implementation of the ecological study for rivers and ab-bandans.

The Basin Water Committee and Fund will be authorized by the Council of Ministers during the I first year with detailed institutional arrangements and operational procedures. Technical assistance will be provided for finalizing the arrangements citing various international experiences. Pilot community-based projects will be funded by the BWF only after those arrangements are officially I authorized. During the first phase, eligible activities will be limited to stakeholders consultation, training, and procurement of small goods.

I Phase II This phase will accelerate the construction of irrigation and drainage systems as well as other systems control devices and equipment instalments. The designing of the systems and specification I must have been completed by the end of Phase I. The contract packages will be combined as much as possible to accelerate physical construction works. The capacity of the CLO and PIUs will have been strengthened in order to carry out heavy procurement and supervision loads by this time.

The GOI would be able to proceed to the construction of branch canals (below secondary) and on- farm activities, only after the community-based management organizations are established as legal entities and function with covenanted O&M contracts with the OMC specifying their respective management and water charges collection responsibilities.

I However, the establishment of the WIUAs is not a pre-condition for the construction of the diversion weir, main conveyance and primary canals, considering the long interactive process of the WUAs establishment and the necessity of producing credible evidence of being able to deliver tangible benefits to stakeholders.

Regarding the upper watershed component, only after the Master Plan is completed with stake- | holders participation along with the establishment of Forestry Cooperatives or similar entities with annual working plans, the GOI would be able to proceed to constructing physical structures including check dams and forestry roads except for pilot and non-structural forest and rangeland management activities.

The eligible programs under the Basin Water Fund will be expanded to pilot works and larger goods * procurement if the initial consultancy activities demonstrate sound implementation and performance records during phase I. The secretariat of the BWC may be expanded to a full PIU in order to enhance its capacity to deal with more needed inter-sectoral coordination and stakeholder participation with the systems in place.

Phase III I This phase will lay more emphasis on the system adjustments during the actual operational period and adaptation of the operational staff and users to the newly created water management system. The Alborz must have been completed and have experienced first impoundment with full monitor- I ing and inspection by the POE. Construction works of branch canals will be continued and finalized along with the functional WUAs establishment. I 3-26 I 9/16/2004 l

Users operational training will be emphasized with hands-on-training using the newly installed operational systems and gates. The M&E program will also be fully implemented to start examining I the increased productivity and efficiency. Users feedback and consultation will be conducted to ensure that the system is functional and whether adjustments are needed.

| Due to the broad scope of the project and the diverse components, project phases will vary between components. The duration period of the two phases might coincide with each other in various parts. For example, the preparation phase for voluntary resettlement of the forest residents or those who live in the reservoir site will not be at the same time as for those in the lower parts. Construction of the canals, even the primary canal, will start one year after dam filling, which has not yet started.

Timeframe Given the complex participatory issues involved in the project (irrigation, natural resources management component) and the necessity of having the social mobilization/beneficiary par- I ticipation carried out during the initial years of implementation, the project implementation period will be 7 years rather than the usual 5 years. Further it is anticipated that the dam, when ready, will take 2 years to fill. The Government of Iran has requested the Bank to expedite the I* processing of this project, because the technical studies have been completed, and bidding I documents have been prepared for Bank review. 3.7 Other Projects in the Project Area 3 The most significant project in the area, which influences the AILWMP is the Alborz Dam project by the GOI, on which construction started in 1999. A brief description of the specifications of the dam and the current construction status is presented below. At least two other projects of 6 significant relevance for the AILWMP has been identified: i) Sewage treatment plants for Babol and Sari are planned and will be financed by the World Bank. None of the projects have been appraised yet, but EIAs are under preparation. ii) The MDOE is working on a master plan for the Northern Provinces which includes improved waste water handling.

3 Alborz Dam Project Description

Layout The Alborz Dam project comprises a rock fill embankment on the Babolrood just downstream of the confluence with the Gazoo and Chakhani tributaries. The dam creates approximately 150 mcm of storage for regulated irrigation and hydropower releases.

River diversion for dam construction is achieved via two tunnels driven through the left abutment. Upstream and downstream coffer dams will be required. Following completion of the I dam one diversion tunnel will be modified to supply irrigation releases and a small hydropower station. The second tunnel will be converted for use as a bottom outlet to permit reservoir draw down.

The dam is protected from overtopping by a morning glory spillway located on the left abut- 5 ment. The discharge is conveyed by a tunnel to an outfall location adjacent to the downstream

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portals of the two diversion tunnels. The layout of the dam, spillway and diversion tunnels is * shown in below.

I Figure 3-3 Layout of Alborz Dam, spillway and diversion tunnels

| ~~~The principal river hydrology and reservoir data is presented in and the key data for the darn, river diversion system and spillway are presented in the tables below.

l ~~Tccble 3.2 Alborz Reservoir, Key Data River hydrology at dam site " ~~~~~~~~~Catchment area 222 kM2 | I ~~~~~~~~Meanannual flow '~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~14.43-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ m3/sI H,,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Peak flood inflow for river diversion 352 m 3/s ( 100 year flood) ~~~~~Peak flood inflow for spillway 1465 m 3/s ( Probable Maximum Flood) | ~~~Reservoir Full supply level (FSL) 301 m * ~~~~~Maximum flood level (MFL) 305.9 m | ~~~~Minimum operating level (MOL) 258 m Reservoir area at FSL 5.1 km2 " ~~~~~~~Reservoir length at FSL 4.5 km | ~~~~~Total storage volume at FSL 150 mcm Live operating storage above MOL 122 mcm

3-28 | ~~~~~~~~~~~~~9/16/2004 Table 3.3: Alborz Dam: Key Data I ~~Dam D Dam type Rock fill with central clay core Crest elevation 307 m Crest width 12 m I Crest length 838 m Fill volume 7.5 mcm Maximum height 78 m to foundation at river section I Upstream slope 1: 2.25 Downstream slope 1 1.8 (upper),l: 1.9 (intermediate) and 1: 2 (lower) slope + 5 m berms between changes in *______slope. Diversion Tunnel No 1 * Length 551 m Diameter 4 m (circular) upstream, 6 m (horseshoe) downstream I Secondary function Irrigation and hydropower delivery

Tunnel No 2 Length 569 m Diameter 4 m (circular) Secondary function Bottom outlet

I Combined capacity 370 m3/s

l ~~~~~Upstream Cofferdam Upstream Cofferdam Type Rock fill with central clay core and transition zones Crest level 255 m. Downstream Cofferdam I Type Homogenous fill Crest level 233 m | ~~~~Spillway I Type Morning glory with separate air vent shaft Discharge capacity at MFL 1010 m3/s Air vent shaft diameter 1.9 m I Sill diameter 24 m Tunnel length 370 m 3 Tunnel diameter 7.6 m

Downstream Release Facilities Each diversion tunnel is provided with a low level intake and a high level intake. During the I early stages of dam construction the river passes through the low level intakes. This arrange- ment provides the full river diversion capacity of 370 m3 /s. Once construction of the dam is completed to elevation 270 m the lower level intake of No 2 tunnel will be closed and the bot- I tom outlet will be constructed within the tunnel. The lower intake of No 1 Tunnel will be closed once the bottom outlet is completed. The reservoir level will then rise and the diverted river flow will pass through the upper intake of No 2 Tunnel and will be discharged via the

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completed bottom outlet. The upper intake of No 1 Tunnel will be temporally sealed by stop logs and the construction of the irrigation outlet system will proceed.

The bottom outlet in Tunnel No 2 (left) comprises a concrete plug and bonneted control gate within the tunnel. A second bonneted gate is provided upstream of the control gate to permit maintenance to be carried out. The high velocity discharge from the control gate passes down the remaining section of tunnel and is returned to the river.

* Tunnel No 1 (right) is converted to the hydropower and irrigation delivery system by the construction of a concrete plug and the provision of a steel conduit from the plug to the outlet portal. This tunnel also provides an access route to the bottom outlet gates in Tunnel No 2. The two tunnels are interconnected by an access gallery for this purpose.

At the downstream portal of Tunnel No 1 a valve house is constructed and equipped with three fixed cone valves which discharge regulated flows back into the river. Each fixed cone valve has an upstream guard valve to permit isolation for maintenance. A branch from this conduit is 3 provided to supply a small hydroelectric power plant adjacent to the downstream portal.

This hydropower station will not be constructed as part of the Alborz Dam project and may be 3 implemented at a later date by a separate authority.

The key data for the downstream release facilities are presented below.

Table 3.4 Alborz Dam Release Facilities:K Data Tunnel No 2 3 Bottom outlet gates 2No 1.5 x 1.9 m bonneted slide gates Capacity 75 m3/s at FSL Tunnel No 1 3 Conduit 2.3 m dia. Steel pipe + upstream butterfly valve Irrigation release valves 2 No 1.2 m dia & 1 No 0.5 m dia fixed cone valves Irrigation discharge capacity 2 x 12 m3/s & 1 x 5 m3/s at FSL 3 Hydropower Scheme Installed capacity 2 x 5 MW Machine type Francis (horizontal axis) Average annual energy 27.6 GWhr

3 Babolak Diversion The flow capture of the Alborz Dam is augmented by a diversion scheme from the Babolak River. The scheme comprises head works on the Babolak which divert a proportion of the river I flow via a transfer tunnel into the reservoir upstream of the Alborz Dam. The head works comprise a homogenous earth fill embankment on the left abutment, a mass concrete overflow weir, a fish pass, a gated spillway and a set of de-sander basins on the right abutment. The gated I spillway provides additional flood discharge capacity and permits the draw down of the head pond. I 3-30 9/16/2004 l l The head works are located in a wide flat alluvial valley and extensive river training dykes are planned downstream of the overspill weir to confine the discharge to the original river bed. The key data for the Babolak diversion system are presented in Table 7.1.5.4.

Table 3.5 Babolak Diversion System: Key Data I Embankment (left bank) Type Homogenous fill + concrete revetment 3 Length 510 m Maximum height 10 m Diversion Weir Type Concrete gravity free overflow weir I Length 70 m Height 7 m to upstream apron, 10 m to downstream | ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~apron * Sluice gates Type 2 No Radial gates (lintel sealed) Size 5 m wide x 3 m high I Fish pass 2 m wide x 8 m vertical height De-sanders Type Parallel settlement channels Size 5 No 10 m long, 3.6 W x 6.4 H Transfer tunnel Length 2600 m Diameter 2.8 m (circular) Capacity 4 m3/s (max), 75.5 mcm/yr, 2.4 m3/s (average) 3 Gradient 0.154%

Construction Status The construction of the Alborz Dam commenced on iSt July 1999 under a contract awarded to the Sabir Construction Company. The excavation of the diversion tunnels was completed under an earlier contract. The project is currently due for completion in 2006. The works were designed by Mahab Ghodss Consulting Engineers who are supervising construction. The project is managed by the Mazandaran Regional Water Authority. At the time of the first Dam Safety 3 Panel of Experts inspection on 25th February 2004 the status of the works was as follows:

* River Diversion: The river was diverted in September 2002 and at the time of the site | visit the river was flowing through the two diversion tunnels under the left abutment. Limited progress had been made with the upper intake concrete works. Substantial slope stabilisation works had been completed above the upstream portals. The upstream 3 coffer dam was completed to crest level.

* Dam: The excavation for the dam was largely complete at the time of the site visit. The | drainage gallery and foundation works on the abutments were largely complete and the embankment fill had been constructed to approximate elevation 240 m.

3-31 I ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~9/16/2004 * Spillway: The excavation of the spillway tunnel, shaft and ventilation shaft were complete. Formwork was in place for the lower bend of the spillway shaft. This will be the first section of concrete work to be undertaken. No progress had been made with the spillway bell mouth structure.

* Babolak Diversion: Tenders for the construction of the Babolak diversion scheme were being invited at the time of the site visit. Construction is expected to commence in Feb- 3 ruary 2005.

* Construction Schedule: The programme for the remaining construction activities was in the process of revision at the time of the site visit. However the outline construction programme is shown below.

Figure 3-4 Alborz Dam Outline Construction Schedule Alborz Dam: Outline Construction Schedule Commenced 2005 2006 ,. Activity . Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Completion

Contract| award ju1-9C 20 2006

River divension s.ep02 F-ill to B_ 270 m}| rT.1: , ;r: l u| '

Embankment fill nov-02

3 Spillway concrete works feb-03 274n :T biversion intake tower jan-03

No 2 Diersion tunnel . 2 L- er . Bottom outlet _C 11Low er take cbsed inigation outlet

Babolac diversion scheme feb-08

Reservoir impounding . . . ___._. __ dec-07

Minor repair works were in progress at all three of the existing dams. These works are:

1 * Shiadeh. Stabilisation works were in progress on the left flank valley side slope downstream of the dam. These works are terracing structures and a major concrete retaining wall at the base of the slope. Culvert construction was in progress at the same location I to capture an underground spring which had contributed to the stability problems and was reported to have pre-existed the dam. * Sombol-Roud. The reservoir was largely drawn down at the time of the site inspection * to permit a replacement bottom outlet valve to be installed. Repair works were also in progress to the spillway apron slab which was being extended to reduce seepage through the left hand dam abutment. * Berenjestonak. Stabilisation works were in progress on the upstream left hand face of the dam abutment to repair a rotational failure which had occurred several years earlier | due to rapid draw down.

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mI m I I l 4 na~~~~~ ~ an ~~ oilB ~ slieCEnio m niin I I

4 Environmental and Social Baseline Conditions This chapter describes the environmental and social baseline conditions of the project area, and includes sections on the physical and chemical environment; the biological environment; and the social, economic and cultural environment. The baseline description is based on the available data and in some cases supplemented by additional studies or surveys.

The total size of the project area is 1347 kM2, and the sizes of the three sub-areas are 346km2 (upper watershed), 1 1Okm 2 (middle lands) and 891km 2 (lower lands), respectively.

The upper watershed land ranges from mountain tops at 3300m a.s.l. down to the Alborz Dam site at 190m a.s.l. The middle lands are defined as the area between the Alborz Dam and the start of the main irrigation canal, at an elevation of 150m a.s.l. The lower lands is predominantly a large agricultural plain between 150m to -25m a.s.l where the five main cities are also located. The western boundary of the area is marked by the Babolrood river ending at Babolsar city by the Caspian Sea and the eastern boundary is marked by the Siahrood river ending at the city of Joybar and the estuary of Siahrood river. Figure 3-1 in the previous chapter shows the project area with the three sub- areas, and many more details are provided in the base map (Map I-60-GL-01 of Annex A).

The analysis of baseline issues focus on the physical, chemical, biological and socio-economic environment. The socio-economic section combines assessment of the economic, social and cultural conditions.

4.1 Physical and Chemical Environment In this section, the physical and chemical baseline issues are presented, analysed and discussed, with the purpose of presenting issues that are, or will be, relevant to the AILWMP. Environmental issues where the project is expected to have very limited or no impact (such as noise and air pollution) are only described very briefly.

4.1.1 Topographic and Physiographic Conditions Three main physiographic regions are identified, namely the mountain region, the piedmont, and the plain, which are then identified in the context of the project as the upper, middle and lower lands.

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The upper lands start from the water divide of Alborz Mountains to the south. The region is mountainous with open grass rangeland at the higher altitudes (above 2800m a.s.l.), forest covered and with irrigated fields in the valleys.

The middle lands (190-150m a.s.l) consists of the hills and hillsides of Alborz range of mountains between Savadkooh and Babol plain. The lower lands has been formed by the transport and deposi- I tion of sediments carried by the rivers and flood waters. Deposition of sediments by water has led to the development of different physiographic units in this region, including plateaus, alluvial fans, alluvial plains, marine deposits and flood plains. The lowest elevation of the region is -25m a.s.l. I (or 25m below oceanic sea level) in the coastal areas by the Caspian Sea, while the highest elevation is 150m a.s.l.

4.1.2 Geology This sub-section contains a brief overview of the geology of the project area, divided into the upper, middle and lower area. A detailed map of the geology is provided in Map 1-60-PE-0 1 of Annex A.

Upper Lands I The mountains in the upper lands formed during the Second (Mesozoic) Era, and the folds are the continuation of the Himalayan folds. The main bedrock of the region is limestone of the upper Ju- rassic, subsequently covered by Tertiary deposits. Due to disconformities, Cretaceous marl is on the I top of limestone in some parts. Shemshak geological formations consisting of conglomerates, sandstone, siltstone, shale, and clay stone, are alternatively present in the area, with interlayer of different thickness of coal (Karsang coal mine is located in upper lands). They are covered by Akchagill I deposits which consists of non-compacted sandy conglomerates, white marl, red sandstone, fossil- containing marl, sand and sandy marls on top of primary deposits and covered by quaternary Cas- pian deposits.

Middle Lands The geological formations of the middle lands belong to the Mesozoic Era and the first signs of I mountain formation in this area began in the Triassic. In the middle of the Secondary era, the sea advanced and, again, left some deposits in the region. In late Jurassic, following the first folding, the area was uplifted above the water completely. The existing deposits between the Babol River and I Talar River were trapped between the great northern fault of Alborz and the Mazandaran-Caspian Fault and, under different pressures, they formned a series of anticlines and synclines with east-west axis. These folds were broken up by north-south faults and the Babol River and Talar River were I formed. During the Quaternary, the process of deposition covered the previous lands and Mazanda- ran coastal plains were developed in the northern foothills and piedmont of Alborz Mountains. The plain of the Middle Region is part of the geological unit of the Gorgan-Rasht zone situated in the north of the Alborz great fault-- a fault that extends from Gorgan to Lahijan.

The bedrock of the area belongs to lower Jurassic to middle Jurassic and is known as the Shemshak I Formation. It consists of conglomerates, sandstone, siltstone, shale, and claystone. Moving from the lower Jurassic to the middle Jurassic, more sandy and calcareous marls with thin grey layers associ- * ated with marl shale are encountered.

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The formation at the site of the dam foundation is of middle to upper Cretaceous and consists of conglomerates, limestone marl, marl, and silty marl.

The Tertiary deposits include the lower, middle, and the upper Miocene deposits, all of which are considered as neogen deposits and cover over the sediments of the Mesozoic Era.

Lower Lands In this region, the Quaternary deposits overlay the tertiary deposits in the form of ancient and recent Caspian deposits and Apeshron Terraces. These terraces consist of blue, gray, and fine sandy marl and occasionally thin layers of volcanic ashes. The ancient Caspian deposits are colorful marls (gray, green, and blue) with sand and gravel, while the recent Caspian deposits are clay deposits and alluvial terraces with 30-160 m thickness. During the Quatemary, the process of erosion has caused the most drastic changes in the northern slopes of Alborz and, eventually, together with tectonic processes, has led to the formation of the coastal plains of the Caspian Sea in the lower project area.

4.1.3 Soils Upper Lands Generally speaking, there are three types of soil found in the upper lands. The type of soil depends on the elevation and topography, degree of erosion, vegetation cover, and the parent rock.

The first type comprise marl and calcareous sandstone, shale with rock outcrops and a soil cover of shallow depth to relatively deep with medium to heavy soil texture. They may be divided into five units depending on the percentage of sand, marl, shale, and silt. The second type consists of sand, gypsum, marl, and some limestone. Soils are developed and are relatively deep to very deep, with a medium to heavy texture. They may be divided into three units depending on percentage of limestone and sediments. The third type consists of alluvial fans containing sand and gravel with a soft soil, undeveloped soils with shallow to deep depth. These soils constitute, mostly, the riverbeds or the river banks and neighboring areas.

In the upper lands, which has steep slopes and a semi-dense forest cover, soils are shallow to deep with a cubic structure and a light to heavy texture. Rainfall distribution and runoff yields are moderate to relatively high. From hydrological point of view, the soils of the watershed are in two groups: (1) soils with a moderate potential for runoff, which include soils with light to medium texture and semi-dense forest cover, moderate to steep slopes, suitable structure, and deep profile, which is capable to allow more infiltration, (2) those with a relatively high potential for runoff, which include the soils with medium texture and poor forest cover, steep slopes and shallow depth. The soil structure is weak and rainfall can not infiltrate the soil in great amounts.

Middle Lands The middle lands includes low elevation hills consisting of marl, silty marl, limestone, and fine deposits with medium depth of soil, and medium to heavy texture with alluvial soils in valley bottoms.

Lower Lands Soil texture in the lower plains is medium to very fine, and infiltration rate is medium to slow. However, light-textured soils with rapid infiltration rates are present as a narrow strip bordering the

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Caspian Sea and in relatively extensive areas to the east of the project area. Most soils close to the rivers have a medium infiltration rate. In other areas, this rate is low. The majority of soils in the area are deep. However, in the lower terraces of the rivers (particularly, the Babolrood), shallow soils occur in small localized spots. Soil salinity and alkalinity is non-existent in the region, except for the coastal areas by the Caspian Sea, and the north-eastern part of the project area. l 4.1.4 Geo-tectonics The most important fault is the Caspian Fault that stretches along the northern arm of the Alborz I range of mountains. Sediments of the Tertiary and Quaternary eras show that this fault is very important and active. Its earthquake potential is 7.2 on the Richter scale. The various faults of the project area are shown in Map I-60-PE-02 of Annex A, and details of the important faults in the upper, middle and lower areas are presented below.

Upper Lands I The geo-tectonic characteristics of the upper area vary with the vicinity to the Alborz and the Cas- pian faults. The Gorgan-Rasht zone along these faults is subsiding and every few years the shaking produced by the accumulation of the energy leads to land movement and damage.

The Caspian Fault is 600 km long and stretches along the northern arm of the Alborz range of mountains. It includes almost all of the northern parts of the upper region.

The Alborz Fault is 400 km long and stretches from Gorgan to Lahijan. It does not cross the upper region directly, but, the stress between this fault and the Caspian Fault has great impact on the geo- U tectonical characteristics of the upper region. In addition to these faults, there are several parallel rock-founded faults at higher elevations in the northeast-southwest direction that have lower impacts compared to the two aforementioned faults. The closest of such faults are those of the Pol-e-sefid I and Shirgah. Many earthquakes have been recorded in the central Alborz region, some which have had intensity between 6.3 to 7 on the Richter scale (those of 11 April, 1962).In Lafoor region, which 3 is in the neighborhood of the Alborz Dam, there were severe earthquakes in 1934 and 1957.

Middle Lands The middle lands and, indeed, the whole watershed of Babol River, is located at the great Alborz * Fault and there are other smaller faults within the vicinity of the dam. The closest fault to the reservoir is the Pashkola Fault that passes the dam construction site at a distance of 0.75km.. The earthquake capability of this fault has been estimated at 6.5 on the Richter scale, while those of the Al- I borz and the Caspian Faults have been predicted respectively as, 7.1 and 7.2. The average distance between the faults close to the dam site is 5km, with an estimated earthquake potential of 5-6.5 on the Richter scale.

Lower Lands 3 In the lower lands, the main faults are the Caspian, Sookhteh-sara, Badeleh and Shirgah faults.

Sookhteh-sara Fault has a length of 27km in east-west direction. The fault has several branches, the closest of which in the Middle Region passes the dam site by a distance of 1.5 km and has an earthquake potential of 6.8 on the Richter scale.

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3 Shirgah Fault with a west-southeast direction and a length of 55km, is bordered by Alborz Fault in the west, and Badeleh Fault in the east. Shirgah Fault has an earthquake potential of 6.8 on the Rich- ter scale. Badeleh Fault is in the northwest-southeast direction with a length of 75 km. The slope of U its fault plane is north-northwest. The earthquake potential of this fault is estimated at 7.3 on the Richter scale.

4.1.5 Erosion The baseline analysis of erosion problems focuses on the upper lands, where erosion problems I mainly occur. Soil erosion risk in the upper lands is high due to relatively high rainfall and steep slopes. Other factors such as tree cutting and deforestation, overgrazing, and early grazing of bushes have aggravated the situation. Erosion is reportedly increasing in the upper area, in particular in the area surrounding the reservoir.

Specific data on soil erosion for the upper area is not available, but erosion rate for the sub- J catchments and hydrological units of Azarrood, Karsangrood, and Esklimrood, the main tributaries of the Babolrood, are estimated in different reports. According to the hydrological report prepared for the Irrigation and Drainage Network', mean annual sediment load by each of the three tributaries to the dam is 127,244 tonnes and specific sediment load is equal to 630 tonnes/year/km 2 . Consider- ing that silting coefficient of the specific erosion for entire basin is equal to 1842.64 tonnes /km2/year2 or 18.42 tonnes/ha/year which indicates a relatively high, but not yet alarming erosion level. Table 4-1 below shows the erosion in Sub basins of Babolrood.

Name of River Area (kn 2) Erosion U (tonnes/year) Azar-rood 72.2 133,038 Karsag-rood 69.7 128,450 Eskilim-rood 60.1 110,724 Total 202.0 374,213 3 Table 4-1 Erosion in main sub-basin of Babol-rood The causes of erosion in the upper areas are predominantly livestock movement and destruction/removal of vegetation cover by livestock. Forest dwellers graze their livestock in the forests and the high alpine grassland, but also the residents of the villages bordering the forests take their livestock, particularly the cattle, to the forests for grazing.

The cattle feed on grass, bushes and young trees and compact the soil of the wet forestland on steep slopes while moving about. Soil compaction decreases infiltration rate and thereby intensifies runoff and soil erosion. In addition, the construction of forest roads for the purpose of exploiting the coal mines and transport of wood contributes to further increase in soil erosion in the forestlands of the region. Transport of Shemshak and limestone marl formations in areas close to the waterways, riv- 3 erbeds, and faults has increased erosion and the risk of landslides.

l Mahab Ghodss (1999) Hydrological report of Coast and Bed Stabilization of Talar & Babol Rivers in Pashakola IrrigationNetwork Plan 2Range of sediment yield based on Pesyak model

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In rice growing areas of the upper lands, which are located in the stony lands of the river fans and in the lower terraces of the valleys, the crop is grown on terraces and water for irrigation is supplied from springs. The terraces are constructed using traditional methods and their resistance to erosion is not high; they are susceptible to breaking, which may cause severe erosion during intensive rain- falls. When rainfall duration is long and the soil reaches a certain degree of wetness, landslides and mass movement of soils on slopes steeper than 30% have been observed. When soils are saturated with water, a slow, downward movement may start with a risk of leading to a landslide. At present, soil stabilization by the natural vegetation is an important factor for prevention of landslides and soil movement. If the soil is disturbed and vegetation is degraded, the probability of landslides increases. Landslides caused by the road construction operations of Alborz Steel Mill Company are not uncommon. These can be observed in the Karsangrood Valley and its overlooking slopes. The same phenomenon is observed in deforested areas.

In the lower region, the risk of soil erosion is much lower due to the very low gradients. However, in some areas terraces are not properly constructed and this is in some cases leads to breakages and Il soil erosion.

3 4.1.6 Climate The project area generally has a warm humid climate, but the alpine regions of the upper catchment the climate is semi-humid, with summer temperatures rarely exceeding 25°C. The middle and lower lands are sub-tropical and humid with hot summers.

Rainfall J Statistical analysis of rainfall is based upon 30 years of records (1966-1996). Overall, the rainfall occurrences in the region under study are the result of two different and yet interactive processes. The incoming rain-producing air systems from the western parts of the country, which collect mois- I ture from over the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, are mostly active during the period of Oct-May. The majority of precipitation in this region is the result of advection of polar air masses over the Caspian Sea and the subsequent orographic rise over the northern slopes of * the Alborz Mountains. Precipitation in the upper elevations of the watersheds is mostly in the form of snow, while in the middle and the lower regions it is mainly in the form of rain.

| The annual precipitation in the upper parts is 600-700mm, while the middle lands have the highest rainfall in the project area, up to 1000-1 100mm/year in Qoran-talar. In the lower lands annual rainfall is 800-900mm. Figure 4-1 below shows the isohyets based on 30-year records (water years of 1965-66 to 1995-96).

| ~~~~~~~~~~~~~9/16/2004 / / t I aI I

A '

I' .11

Cl1' \ g

A \\ \\ \\\ 0 - A r

- - ------m m - l l

l 1200 I ~~~~~~~~~1000

600

400

200 J, rb o r rLi. i. r_

E~ W- c-0 E 5:. 2' 5~ El Fz Of, m a z lJI t < z E < < ~< < I< ~ wU) : 23

l Month j o UPPER LAND mMIDDLE LAND * LOW\ER LAND

Figure 4-2 Monthly Rainfall Distributionfor upper, middle and middle lands (2000) Temperature The air temperature decreases from northern to south in the project area i.e. from the Caspian Sea coast to the southern elevations and the Alborz Mountains. The lower lands, close to the Caspian Sea, experiences large annual differences in air temperature, due to the high specific heat of water. According to the data presented in the following table, the maximum mean monthly air temperature occurs in August and is 31.7 °C, while the minimum mean monthly air temperature recorded for the lower lands is 5.40C3 (January). The range of temperature variation in the project area is shown in Table 4-2 below.

* Parameter Temperature Absolute max 42.0 Max - mean 22.4 Mean 16.1 Min - mean 9.7 Absolute min -14/0

Table 4-2 Maximum and Minimum Temperatures in Project Area. Figure 4-3 below shows mean monthly temperature variations in the lower lands 4. There are no stations for temperature measuring in the upper and middle lands and therefore no data are presented in the graph below.

Mahab Ghodss (2002): Water Resources Inventory of Mazandaranand Golestan Provinces and Determination of Excess Water Beyond the Environmental Requirements. Meteorology Report. 4 Ibid.

4-8 I 9/16/2004 l I

1 ~~~~~~~~~~~~35-

I ~~~~~~~~~~~~30* 25

E 15

3 Month

--- 2000 -t----1999 ---- 1998

3 Figure 4-3 Mean Monthly Temperature in lower lands (1996, 1999 and 2000) l Potential Evapo-transpiration and Winds Evaporation increases in proportion to the distance from the Caspian Sea. The annual evaporation for the upper parts at elevations of about 1800 a.s.l. has been reported as 880 mm in the Middle and the Lower Parts, evaporation is low, due to the proximity to the Caspian Sea and the entrapment of air moisture coming from the sea at the foot of Alborz mountains causing high air humidity in these parts. The annual evaporation in the areas between the Caspian Sea and the mountains, up to elevations of about 375m is reported as 750mm.

The relative humidity in the upper region is less than that of the middle and lower parts, mainly because of temperatures and the moisture density accumulation in the latter two areas.

The common direction of wind is from sea to land during the day when hot air over the land rises. At night this is reversed when the sea is relatively warm causing a breeze from land to sea. In the upper lands the wind direction during the day is from the foothills to higher elevations and is reversed during the night.

3 Monthly variations in average evaporation, humidity and wind speed is shown in Table 4-3. I

4-9 I 9/16/2004 l I

6 1-- ~ 6 I ~ l ._ A e _ dc Cs U 6t Parameter -

l Days with frost 0.2 1 5.3 9.7 8.9 4.9 1.7 0 0 0 0 0 31.7

Relative humidity% 80 79 80 78 80 81 79 76 76 76 78 80 78

3 Mean speed of wind m/s 0.8 0.9 1 1 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.1 1.0 0.9 0.9 0.8 1

Evaporationl & Evaporation & 67.1 42.2 27.7 25.1 29.6 44.4 68.5 100.2 122.0 129.8 118.1 93.6 868.4 evapo-transpiration mm _

Table 4-3 Mean monthly and annual number of days with freezing temperatures, I airrelative humidity, wind velocity, and potential evapo-transpiration.

4.1.7 Hydrology Surface Water Quantity The headwaters of the tributaries of the three largest rivers in the extended project area begin in the 3 high elevations of the upper region, to flow northward toward the Caspian Sea. These rivers are called, respectively, Sadjarood, Babolrood and Talar. Other tributaries from the middle, and even from the lower, regions join them in different sections of their stream course. The tributaries that 3 originate in the lower region are, indeed, the collectors of the agricultural drainage waters. The river that marks the eastern boundary of the project area is called Siahrood, and has a relatively small catchment area.

The Babol River is fed by tributaries that originate in the northern front of Alborz at elevations close to 2900m a.s.l. Its main tributaries are Azarrood, Karsangrood, Esklimrood, Azrood, and Babolak. 3 Besides these tributaries, two rivers also join the Babol River, namely Sadjadrood and Kalarood. The confluences are, respectively, Gavzan kola and Pole-e-hasankhan villages. The Babol River passes by the city of Babol and on its way to the Caspian Sea it collects the drainage water of the I surrounding agricultural lands. The annual flow of Babolrood at hydrometric stations of Qoran talar, Babol, and Miandasht is, respectively, 258mcm, 493mcm, and 421mcm.

3 The Talar River also originates from the Alborz Mountains at elevations of nearly 3900 m a.s.l. south of the Alborz Dam and the project intervention area. Its main tributaries are the Sorkhabad river, Aramrood, Kabir-rood, Delavar-rood, Bezla, Shesh roodbar, Choral, Kasilian, Tajoon, and | Tooji. The annual discharge flow rates of this river at hydrometric stations of Talar (Shirgah), and Talar (Kia kola) are, respectively, 237mcm and 31 lmcm. The Kasilian River, which is one of the tributaries of the Talar River, has an annual flow of 103mcm at Shirgah hydrometric station. The | Talar River follows a 58km course from Shirgah to the sea and its bed downstream from Ghaem- shahr city is very wide.

4-10 I 9/16/2004 l l

3 The Siahrood River marks the eastern boundary of the project area and has a small watershed. It originates from the forested elevations in the south and east of Ghaemshahr. The stream flow of this river reaches the valley only during precipitation periods. In other words, downstream sections of this river i.e. south of Ghaemshar and lower, act as a drainage collector for the agricultural lands and the city waste water and sewage. Siahrood is about 60km long and part of its floodwater is stored in the ab-bandans (surface reservoirs) along the river banks. In order to support the (real-time) flow rates of this river and provide water for the pumping stations on its banks, some 1Omcm of water will be annually discharged into the Siahrood River through the Abkasr Canal. The river outlet to the sea is at Larim fishing site. Table 4-4 overleaf shows the average monthly and annual flow rates I at different hydrometric stations5 . It should be noted that the flow of Babolrood is lower at the mouth of the river compared to mid-stream at Babol City. The explanation for this is considerable water abstraction (pumping) for irrigation in the lower reaches of the river. I l l I I l I I

3 5 Mahab Ghodss (2002): Water Resources Inventory of Mazandaran and Golestan Provinces and Determination of Excess Water Beyond the Environmental Requirements. environmnental Report I 4-11 I 9/16/2004 m m m - - m - m m m m m m m

River River Mehr Aban Azar Day Bahman Esfand Farvardin Ordibehesht Khordad Tir Mordad Shahrivar Annual Station (Oct) (Nov) (Dec) (Jan) (Feb) (Mar) (Apr) (May) (Jun) (Jul) (Aug) (Sep)

Babolrood Guran Talar 9.075 8.627 7.323 6.505 7.717 11.038 3.490 .735 5.465 5.800 5.455 9.086 8.2 258 (upper)I Babolrood Babol 20.219 19.999 19.050 16.992 16.763 20.878 23.594 12.485 7.581 8.273 7.847 14.688 15.7 492 Babolrood Miandasht 173.80 18.090 19.890 18.04 16.490 19.09 14.55 9.760 3.9 5.89 5.57 15.57 13.4 420 (Lower) Talar Shirgah 5.780 5.888 6.299 6.101 7.414 11.233 14.329 10.404 6.620 5.765 4.786 5.455 7.5 236 (upper) Talar Kiakola 9.82 10.488 11.658 12.131 14.511 18.796 18.533 7.287 3.471 2.718 2.638 7.082 9.9 310 (lower) I

Table 4-4 Average Monthly Flow Rates in Babol and Talar Rivers (m3 /sec) (1959-1999)

4-12 9/16/2004 l l River Flow Pattern The Babol River flow pattern in natural regime before dam construction and in control regime after dam construction is analysed for justification of the minimum water requirement to be released for the aquatic protection in the river. The main rivers flowing into the Babol River be- I low the Alborz Dam are: Babolak and Sonbolrood in middle lands area (which is the reason for increase of discharge at Gharantalar gauging station), and Sajadrood and Kharonrood in lower lands before Babol gauging station (which is the reason for increase of discharge at Babol I gauging station). Figure 4-4 overleaf provides a schematic overview Babolrood with tributaries, gauging stations, Alborz Dam and Ganj-Afrooz diversion dam. 3 Figure 4-4 below shows the average yearly flow (m3 /sec) at four stations, from Pashakola at the upper part of the catchment to Miandasht near the mouth of the river. It should be noted that in some years the flow at Miandasht is lower than at Babol City, which is because of intensive water abstraction for irrigation between the two stations.

I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~0E 0 I ______

1988-89 89-90 90-91 91-92 92-93 93-94 94-95 95-96 96-97 97-98 98-99

g ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Year -4*- Pashajda ---- OLwantalar -A-Babd ' Miandasht

I Figure 4-4A BabolroodRiver Yearly Average Flow - 10 Years Duration

5 Figure 4-5 illustrates the monthly river flow based on the latest I 0-years average at four gauging stations from upstream to downstream. Basically, the lowest flow period in the river falls in Khordad (Jun), Tir (Jul) and Mordad (Aug). It is unknown what the minimum river flow should be to restore natural spawning and habitats for sturgeon, other fish species and associated aquatic life. But at least in late summer where the river is almost dry and extremely polluted, it must be assessed that the natural minimum requirements are not full filled.

Analysis of the monthly flow (Figure 4-5 overleaf) reveals that in the lowest flow year, at Ba- bol gauging station, the lowest average monthly water flow in the river occur in the months of I Day (Jan.) with 4.6m3/s and Tir (Jul.) with 4.64m3 /s. At Gharantalar gauging station the lowest I 4-13 9/16/2004 discharge rate occurs in the months of Azar (Dec) 3m 3/s and Day (Jan) 2.8 m3/s. Map I-60-PE- 03 of Annex A shows the location of the various gauging stations in the project area.

The current data on ecological water demands are course estimates and will be studies under the river ecology studies in the ESMP during Phase I of the AILWMP. l I I I I I I l l I l I

3I9/16/2004 4-14 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I _ l I ~~~~~Caspian SeaI I K MMandasht Guaging |I) : Station l Lower Lands l | | abol Guaging l ) : ~Station I Rharonrood Ganj-afrooz I 55BG SS552 Diversion Weir

|3aB2BB gggX | Reis-kol Diversion Weir I ,,~~~~~~~~..,,,,,,,,,,,,,,...... ,./''''''''''''''''' ' ''...... / i l ~~~Gharantalar l

| | drod ,a | Guaging Station l Middle Lands

/ t P~ashakola Guaging

Alborz Dami 3Babolak River

| | al zood3ivez| UpperLands

3 ~~~~~~~~Fi'ure4-4B Baholrood River System Scheme 4-15 9/16/2004 10

I 1 ______o

MEHR ABAN AZAR DAY BAH ESF FAR ORD KHO TIR MOR SHA Month

--4-Pashalia --- Qurantalar --- Babol -*- Miardasht - Ecological waterdemand

3 Figure 4-5 BabolroodMonthly Average River Flow atfour stations and estimated ecological water demand - before dam operation Caspian Sea 6 The area of the Caspian Sea is about 422,000 km2 with 6397 km coastline, of which more than 900 km is along the Iranian side. About 128 large and small rivers flow into the Caspian Sea from Iran, among them the four largest rivers are: Sepidrud, Shalman, Shafarood, and Toneka I bon. The highest salinity level reaches 12.7 ppt (about 1/3 of the ocean salinity) during summers. The average water temperature in the coastal regions throughout the year ranges from 15.9°C to 17°C. Temperature difference between the coldest area in the north, and the warmest area in the south is 40C during winter and 16 0C during summer.

The Volga River, the largest in Europe, drains 20% of the European land area and is the source I of 80% of the Caspian's freshwater inflow. Its overall contribution to the Caspian may have diminished somewhat over the years due to extensive dam construction. Its lower reaches are heavily developed with numerous unregulated releases of chemical and biological pollutants. I Although existing data are sparse and of questionable quality, there is ample evidence to suggest that the Volga is one of the principal sources of transboundary contaminants into the Cas- pian.

The level of the Caspian Sea has fluctuated for unknown reasons ever since records have been kept (last couple hundred years at least), rising and falling as much as several meters 2-4 times I a century. The last rise crested in the early 1990s, and the level has since receded a half meter or so with no further changes in the last few years. The sea's rise has confounded scientists and engineers who have monitored the sea level. From 1933-1941, experts recorded that the Cas-

6 The information on the Caspian Sea is extracted from www.eia.doe.org (Official Energy Statistics from the U.S. Government) and from www.caspianenvironment.org (homepage of the GEF-funded Caspian Sea Envi- ronmental Programme, CEP)

4-16 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ l

pian's water level consistently decreased, by a total of 1.68 m. The pattern of sea level increase since 1978 has confused engineers who have attempted to deal with the natural water variation.

The spotlight on the Caspian region's oil and gas reserves has highlighted the appalling state of the environment in and around the Sea. Years of neglect have left the Sea and the surrounding region in a precarious position environmentally. Petrochemical and refining complexes on the Absheron peninsula in Azerbaijan are major sources of land-based pollution, and discharges and spills from oil and gas drilling - both onshore and in the sea itself - have had serious impacts on the environment. Untreated waste from the Volga River, into which half the population of Russia and most of its heavy industry drains its sewage, empties directly into the Caspian Sea, while pesticides and chemicals from agricultural run-off are threats to the Sea's flora and fauna. Thousands of seals that live in the Caspian Sea have died since 2000 due to pollution that weakened their immune systems, and over-fishing, especially of the prized sturgeon, has caused a dramatic decline in fish stocks.

In addition to the existing problems, several other issues could compound the Caspian region's environmental difficulties. Oil and gas production in the Sea inevitably will result in the construction of pipelines and infrastructure to export these resources to consumers, raising the pos- sibility of loss of habitats for marine life as well as the spectre of accidental spills.

While the countries of the region have begun to take added measures to prevent pollution, including conducting oil spill response exercises and increasing state funds for enforcement of environmental regulations, the lack of regional cooperation among the Caspian littoral states continues to undermine individual state efforts to protect the sea and the surrounding region. The absence of a multilateral agreement on the legal status of the Caspian Sea has hampered efforts to craft and to implement an overall regional strategy to safeguard the sea's flora and fauna, as well as human health. The over fishing that threatens the Caspian's sturgeon population is a direct result of the inability to reach a new agreement to divide the sea.

Although a final multilateral solution still eludes the Caspian littoral states, an encouraging sign has been a move towards greater cooperation. Several initiatives have boosted regional cooperation in protecting the environment, including the establishment of the Caspian Environment Programme (CEP) in conjunction with the World Bank's Global Environmental Facility. The aim of the CEP is defined as "environmentally sustainable development and management of the Caspian environment, including living resources and water quality, so as to obtain the utmost long-term benefits for the human populations of the region, while protecting human health, ecological integrity, and the region's sustainability for future generations."

Implementation of these goals will be extremely difficult, especially in light of the region's economic situation, but it is hoped that bilateral agreements between several of the Caspian states will help lead to an overall multilateral agreement. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia have signed bilateral agreements with each other to divide the Caspian seabed into national sectors, a move could facilitate bilateral environmental agreements. As oil and gas extraction in the region continues at a brisk pace, the challenge of protecting the Caspian's environment will be-

4-17 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I

come more difficult. Without increased cooperation by the littoral states, the state of the envi- 3 ronment in the Caspian Sea and surrounding areas will remain threatened. Crop pattern and irrigated water supply resources | According to the latest existing information and report, (revised studies and updated Alborz sustainable development project and agricultural report of AILWMP -Mahab-Ghods, 2003- 2004) land use in the boundary of irrigation & drainage project, recommended crop pattern and 3 percentage of water supply from surface and ground water resources required for agricultural purposes have been changed, where the summary is as follow.

| Land Use The agricultural lands in the boundary of irrigation & drainage project (down stream region) consist of irrigated lands (paddy), non-paddy (dry farming) and gardens and the area of non- irrigated lands consist of uncultivated and pasture, ab-bandan and fish production, residential, industrial and other areas. The areas occupied by improving and developing sectors in 2003 are shown in the following table:

I' I' I' I l I I

4-18 9/16/2004 l

Table 4-5 Existing land use in the study areas of AILWMP in downstream region Improving areas Developing areas Total study areas Land use 2003 2003 2003 %of total %of total %of total (ha) (ha) (ha) Irrigated lands (paddy) 60.2 28350 35.3 9665 51 38015 3Nonpaddylands (dry 2.1 990 31.3 8570 12.8 9560 farming) Gardens 9 4245 6.1 1665 7.9 5910 Total cultivated lands 71.3 33585 27.7 19900 71.8 53485 Uncultivated & pasture 0.2 85 3.6 990 1.4 1075

Ab-bandans&fishpro- 7.1 3330 1.7 460 5.1 3790 I duction Residential & industrial 19.2 9040 16.7 4580 18.3 13620 3 Other lands* 2.2 1070 5.3 1460 3.4 2530 Total uncultivated lands 28.7 13525 27.3 7490 28.2 21015 Total lands 100 47110 100 27390 100 74500

* other lands consist of main and secondary and access roads, flood ways and rivers, coastal areas and etc.

Agricultural water requirements and crop pattern The highest rate of water requirement amongst recommended agricultural products belongs to rice in Alborz irrigation & drainage project with an average rate of 8051 m 3/ha water during 5 months(March 21 to Aug21). The other recommended crops consist of citrous, wheat, barley, Soya bean, cucumber, tomato, clover, lettuce, rape, broad bean and strawberry. Generally agricultural water requirement belong to the first 6 months of the year, when the least water requirement happens in August.

Present cropping patterns and the anticipated "with project" cropping patterns are presented in Table 4.6. With the project, traditional area cropping patters are expected to shift to planting more rice, with an increase in the cropping intensity from 119% to 126%. Alternatively, a scenario based on the assumption of Iran's access to WTO is analyzed. In this case, rice production decreases by two thirds compared to the present situation and more high valued crops are grown.

For the new irrigated areas, five scenarios were outlined by MG for possible "with project" cropping patterns, starting with cropping pattern CP1 (50% of development area planted to rice) to CP5 (90% of development are planted to rice). Cropping patterns CP4 and CP5 are based on increasing the rice cropping area thereby increasing water requirements per hectare. This limits the total cropping area in cropping patterns because of available irrigation water. A scenario

4-19 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I

based on the assumption of Iran's access to WTO is analyzed (WTO/CP6), with only 30% of the area planted with rice and a large area in high value crops.

Cropping pattern CP3 is used as the base cropping pattern. Farmers, at least in initial stages, are likely to want to plant as much rice as possible, but farrners will also want to cultivate the maximum available area which makes CP3 the most likely initial choice. Later, farmers will likely grow more high valued crops as markets open up with the support from WUAs and agricultural support services. It can then be anticipated that cropping patterns CP2 and CP l would become more attractive to farmers.

At present, this scenario is hypothetical, since no back-up studies concerning the market potential for these products have been conducted. However, the project provides agriculture support services that will help achieve a move towards increasing high valued crop production.

Table 4-6 Present and "With Project" CroppingPatters

Traditional (Improve- New Irrigation (Development) Area Hectares ment) Area Hectares

Present With With Present With Project Alternatives a/ Project Project WTO CP1 CP2 CP3 CP4 CP5 CP6

Main (WTO) Crops Paddy 14,880 15,180 5,308 5,800 4,648 5,577 6,507 6,628 7,067 2,789 (Tarom) Paddy 13,470 13,790 4,645 3,865 4,648 5,577 6,507 6,628 7,067 2,789 (HY) Wheat 300 0 6,635 3,620 3,105 2,324 1,543 696 0 3,160 Soybean 240 0 0 2,510 0 0 0 0 0 0 Tomato 30 0 0 265 1,543 1,171 781 348 0 0 Lettuce 0 0 3,317 1,487 Green 130 0 0 240 0 0 0 0 0 0 Bean Strawberry 25 0 3,317 390 2,789 2,082 1,394 613 0 3,718 Faba 85 0 0 310 0 0 0 0 0 0 Rapeseed 180 0 0 1,235 0 0 0 0 0 0 Citrus 4,245 4,205 9,953 1,665 1,859 1,859 1,859 1,657 1,570 4,647

Total 33,585 33,175 33,175 19,900 18,590 18,590 18,590 16,571 15,704 18,590

Double Cropping Rapeseed 1,635 2,290 1,659 770 1,822 2,194 2,565 2,618 2,795 1,115

4-20 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I

Clover 3,405 4,840 1,991 1,150 2,826 3,383 3,941 4,010 4,287 1,860 Soybean 180 0 4,976 2,110 3,105 2,324 1,543 696 0 3,160 Faba 0 550 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Lettuce 1,170 940 0 260 0 0 0 0 0 0 Tomato 0 0 0 0 1,543 1,171 781 348 0 1,487

Total 6,390 8,620 8,626 4,290 9,295 9,072 8,830 7,672 7,067 7,622

Total 39,975 41,795 41,801 24.190 27,885 27,662 27,420 24,243 22,771 26,212 Cropped Area Cropping 119% 126% 126% 122% 150% 149% 148% 146% 145% 141% Intensity

In the tables in Annex J, the hectarine of cultivated lands and irrigation system in the existing situation and project condition show, this information has solely been prepared for irrigation and drainage project areas. The chart of existing situation show totally 423.18 x 106 m 3/year water are supplied by surface and ground water resources for agricultural purpose (rice), where 108.64 x 106 m 3(25.7%) by surface water, 164.97 x 106 m 3(39%) by Ab-bandan and return flow, 149.57 x 106m3 (35.3%) by ground water.

In the project condition the total water consumption reaches to 464.2 x 106 m3 where 205.4 x 10 6 m3 44.3 %) by surface water, 117.17 x 106m3 (25.2%) by ground water and 141.63 x 106 m3 (30.5%) by Ab-bandan and return flow. It means about 10% reduction in ground water consumption which causes to preserve the ability of ground water supply.

A detailed water balance analysis will be conducted based on a surface/groundwater model during Phase I of the AlLWMP.

4.1.8 Groundwater Groundwater in the project area is represented by one aquifer. The groundwater table is relatively deep in the upper lands, and shallow in the lower and middle lands, in some cases as high a Im below ground level.

Water table contour lines are shown in Figure 4-6. In the coastal plain, the direction of the hydraulic gradient is east-west, while in the areas located in the fans, the direction tilts to the north, due to recharge action of the rivers. In other words, the convexity of the (contour) curves is toward the Caspian Sea. But in the areas between the rivers and where the rivers act as a drain for the ground water aquifers, the convexity is directed toward the elevated parts in the south.

4-21 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I

The direction of the groundwater flow is perpendicular from south to north. The hydraulic gra- I dient of the groundwater is high (10-15 per thousand) in the southern parts and the water table contours are close to each other, while the distance between these lines increases as they approach the north. In the vicinity of the sea, these distances reach their maximum and the hy- I draulic gradient in the coastal plains of the Caspian Sea reaches values less than 2 per thousand. Water table elevation in the vicinity of Babolsar is less than 30m a.s.l.

CItytNItlage 7 ~~~~~~~~~Cosi:anSea Lake

Lands Influncipd bDyfloodi Grourflaer CDfltOUr Line

l | ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Conlour

l~~ ///RalRd~~~~~~~~ e"

Figure 4-6 Groundwater Contour Lines in Project Area

Data of water table depths is available for the period of 2000-2001. The water table depth in I 3Babol and downstream is only 2-3.5m. Due to the groundwater abstractions (mainly for agricul-

4-22 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ U ture), the water table falls during some parts of the year, but is recharged during winter and returns to the original level after the rainy season (Figure 4-7).

1 MarchApril J-n July A.g Sept Oct Nov dev J.n Feb March Apl may J.r July A.g Sept Oct Nov D., Jan Feb 1 2 ..... --- ..---...... ---...... - ...... -.--...... -..-.

______* 0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~alanaghib la ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-U--.barik kala 6 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*ab-faaselbbbabol~ -t-valokala

Groundwater Balance______-- -______damlaan ag

0balance The ~~water from ~almost En~ zero ~ 0 1986aca~~~~~~~ declined to 0-25 mc E 19 a

EIIi~~~~~Z~~i2o0~~~~Z~Month 1380-2001

Figure 4- 7 Monthly Variations in Groundwater Table (2000 and 2001)

Groundwater Balance The ground water condition for two years 1986 and 1999 has been compared in a recent study 7 . U ~ ~~Thewater balance from almost zero in 1986 declined to -25 mcm in 1999. This trend shows the intensive pressure on groundwater resources due to abstraction. With this trend, intrusion of salt water from the Caspian Sea shore is a severe risk. I I

3 7 Mahab Ghodss (2002): Water Resources Inventory of Mazandaranand Golestan Provinces and Determina- tion of Excess Water Beyond the Environmental Requirements. Irrigation & Drainage Report l

4-23 9/16/2004 | AbstractionAbtaction fromDom wa ll 3 6 Abstraction from well Abstraction from springs grou nat a

<~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

11926 1.1 8. - .6- 7201 5240 98

250095 .3 03 0fl07 0 - 26. 8. 256 19

| ready m~~~~ovd iwrabou 6k inrcn>er,detosgiiatdfeenei e ae ee

- ~~~and hydrodynamic characteristics of the water table. Groundwater quality in the lower lands has degraded heavily in recent years due to slope influence of saline water and high evaporation. | ~~~Therefore, in this part of the project area, the ground water abstraction must be restricted and action must be taken to push back the saline intrusion line with increased groundwater recharge. Ab-bandans (traditional ponds) represent water bodies that supply a continuous re- | ~~~charge of groundwater and thereby raise the water table through infiltration. It has been decided in the design of the irrigation and drainage network to maintain ab-bandans for storage, and this is important for groundwater recharge and to avoid salt water intrusion.

w ~~~Determination of the Interface between Saline Sea Water and the Coastal Freshwater I Aquifers | ~~~In the coastal alluvial regions, there is a general flow of fresh groundwater from inlands toward the sea. The greater this flow becomes, the less sea water intrusion into the fresh aquifers. Ab- straction and utilization of freshwater from inland aquifers will decrease the sea-ward flow and | ~~~will lead to the intrusion of sea water into the coastal aquifers. The difference in the specific density of saline and fresh waters is such that the latter will remain on top while saline water will occupy the lower parts of the aquifer until equilibrium is established. By using a finite element model and the available geo-electrical sections, the interface of saline and fresh waters has been estimated and is shown in Figure 4-8 below.

6Qanat is a traditional type of underground channel for gravity-based flow of groundwater for irrigation water ronabstraction.

4-24 g ~~~~~~~~~~~~~9/16/2004 l I I I

GeoptectricaL Section Sof't%Fresh lInterioce- Roll Road Asphalt Roac Rlver

| Figure 4-8 Fresh and Salt Water Interface in ProjectArea In the northeast sections of Talar plain, Babol, and Haraz plain, saline sea water has intruded into the coastal fresh water aquifers due to the lack of adequate elevation differences between I the sea and the ground surface. This intrusion is prevailing in most parts of the eastern coastal areas of the plain, continuing from Babolsar all the way to the outlet of the Siahrood River. In some of these areas, this intrusion has entered the inland areas as far as 6-8km from the sea. 5 Therefore, in order to prevent the intrusion of sea water, the first principle to follow is to keep the level of ground water must be kept higher than the sea surface by ensuring adequate groundwater recharge, which, in fact, the reservoir of the Alborz Dam will contribute to.

4.1.9 Water Consumption The relative distribution of water consumption between different sectors at Amol, Babol, Ghaemshahr, and Joybar is as follows: Agriculture 93.5-96.5%; Drinking water 3.6-6%, and Industry 0. 1-0.5%. In addition it should be noted that 97% of the total water is consumed in the I lower and middle areas, while only 3% is consumed in the upper lands. The consumption of water according to different sectors in the upper and middle/lower lands is shown in Figure 4-8 g overleaf.

I 4-25 9/16/2004 I I In the upper lands only represents 3% of the total water consumption in the project area. 74.3% | of the water consumed in this area is provided from the surface waters and 25.7% from groundwater resources. The groundwater used in the industrial sector is 65.1% while it is 34.9% for drinking. The consumption of surface resources (including springs) is divided be- 3 tween agriculture (51.8%) and drinking (48.5%).

In the middle and lower lands areas 63.1% of the total water consumed is provided from 3 groundwater resources (springs and wells), and 36.9% from surface sources. The groundwater is used in different sectors as following: agriculture 87.8%, drinking 11.4%, and industry 0.9%. Surface resources are consumed by: agriculture 99.3%, drinking 0.5%. Water consumption in the industrial sector and for drinking is very low, and the groundwater is the main source for drinking in lower and middle lands of the area.

The per capita water consumption is estimated at 218.6 1/capita/day for cities and 73 I/capita/day for rural areas. The overall consumption of water in the urban and rural communities in the area equal to 107 million 1/day and 33million 1/day, respectively, of which 87% is I used in the lower and middle lands.

The preliminary estimates of the water consumption volume will be updated through a rigour- I ous water balance study during Phase I of the AILWMP. l I I l I I

4-26 9/16/2004 mm m - aS - - - - - M - m

Total Consumto 525.54

Upper Lands Middle and Lower Lands

3 97 16.72 508.82

Surface water Groundwater Surface water Groundwater

14.3 25.7 36.9 63.1 1 .42 4.3 187 .83 320.99 0) 113%5%(; 0 CA0 11 y CD 0.5 5. 7% Industry Agriculture Drinking Industry Agriculture Drinking Industry Agriculture Drinking Industry Agriculture Drinking 51.5 48.5 65.1 34.9 99.3 0.7 0.9 87.8 11.4 6.4 6.02 2.8 1.5 186.5 1.33 2.75 281.7 36.51

Legend: ll| ( Percentage of total onsumption

Consumption Sector

Relative consumption

Actual consumption

(mcm) . Figure 4-8 Water consumption in differentt sectionis of the project area (MCM! (2002 - 2003) 9/16/4-27 9/16/2004 l

4.1.10 Ab-bandans (Surface Storage ponds) Development of these ponds were created where the natural conditions were optimum. In low lying areas that were occasionally flooded small dams have been constructed (gradually over many years) to allow the areas to keep water for agriculture and fish cultivation.

| Water intake for old ab-bandans is achieved by gravity, while for the new ones water is pumped into the pond. In addition to water storage capacity, ab-bandans have other useful properties such as regulation of water use, fish culture, environmental values and benefits, hunting site, and in some cases, a * buffering medium to recharge groundwater so as to prevent sea water intrusion. The old ab-bandans are state property and/or are considered to be part of the natural resources that cannot be owned privately. However, the new ones are owned by private sector or, in some rural communities, part of the village lands are used for this purpose.

Usually, water inflows to ab-bandans that are used for fish culture starts in mid winter and is stopped I by the end of that season. For fish culture, the amount of water used is about 30,000 m3/ha. Out of this total volume, about 10,00Om 3 is lost through evaporation and deep percolation, 1500lm 3 is used for the water level maintenance, and 500S m3 is needed for water exchange (aeration) and renewal during the period. 3 Details of the 82 ab-bandans in the project area are provided below.

l Ab-bandans between Ab-bandabs between Total Babolroud and Talar Talar and Siahroud Number of ab-bandans: 41 41 82 I Area of ab-bandans(ha): 1972 1738 3710 Effective volume(mcm): 50.22 43.1 93.32 3 Irrigated area served by ab-bandans (ha): 4428 2950 7378 Table 4-8 Ab-bandans: Number, Surface Area, Effective Volume andArea Served by.

In addition, to the economic value of ab-bandans as reservoirs for fish farming and storage of water for irrigation, the ab-bandans are also environmentally important as sources of water for groundwater recharge (and thereby preventing saline water intrusion) and as habitats for migratory birds (see section 4.2 Biological Baseline).

I According to the field observations, water for ab-bandans is provided from rivers (65%), groundwater (18%), and from surface runoff and return flows from agricultural lands (17%). I In the AILWMP, it is planned that ab-bandans will be protected and utilized as water storage to supply irrigation water for cultivation (mainly rice) similar to the existing situation. Usually the major loss, excess to evaporation and seepage, is infiltration from the bed which ultimately influences the groundwater aquifer positively.

4-28 9/16/2004 l

I There is no observation record and data to evaluate the real amount of groundwater recharge from ab- bandans, but generally the seepage from natural and other earthen ponds in similar conditions is not less than 10%, which could also be anticipated for the ab-bandans in the project area. Recharge to I groundwater from ab-bandans continuously through the year is important to halt the salt water intrusion. Wells in area between Babolsar and Siahrood River, have saline water already. Therefore, the ab-bandans in the lowest part of the lower area act as a buffer preventing salt water intrusion and their protection is important for maintaining the groundwater balance and hence prevent saline intrusion.

| 4.1.11 Water Quality Surface waters in the project area are mostly used for agriculture and are rarely used for drinking, except in some parts of the upper watershed. The most important water body in the area is the Babol River. Other important surface water bodies are the Talar and Siah rivers and the ab-bandans (ponds) that are used for irrigation supply and (in some cases) aquaculture in the lower lands.

Irrigation water will be diverted at two diversions weirs, Ganj-Afrooz and Reis-kol, located on the Babol River within the project area. At these two diversion weirs there is good water quality, and the diverted water is considered suitable for irrigation use. However in the lower parts of the Babol River * the water quality becomes degraded due to contamination by general agricultural run-off and due to many point sources of industrial and commercial outfalls near the urban areas. The water quality in | the lower reaches of the Babol River is usually not suitable for irrigation uses.

While the data available on physical water quality parameters are reasonably good, the available data on the chemical environment, especially water chemical water quality parameters and pollution lev- I els, are insufficient to establish a clear and detailed picture of the current situation of water resources. There is a particular shortage of data on water quality both for surface water and groundwater resources, and the reliability of the available data are questionable in some cases.

The assessment below of the baseline conditions is therefore incomplete and inadequate for the establishment of a complete set of baseline data against which project impacts can be evaluated. The es- * tablishment of a reliable set of baseline data on water quality and pollution levels will therefore be a priority activity under the AILWMP. Comprehensive support to strengthening water quality and pollution monitoring is included in the ESMP.

Surface Water Quality in the Upper Watershed In the upper watershed, the Azar, Eskelim and Karsang rivers represent the main tributaries of the Babol River above the Alborz Dam site. Since these rivers are located in high mountainous areas with little human activity, chemical and biological pollution levels are not expected to be high. I The water quality of these rivers is not recorded regularly, but samples were taken in 1997 for the EIA of the Alborz Dam, as shown in Table 4-8. These indicated that overall water quality appears to be fairly good in all three tributaries, with reasonably high dissolved oxygen levels (in excess of 10 * mg/l) and relatively low conductivity, nutrient and BOD levels. In all, the water quality appears to be reasonably good for both water supply purposes and for fisheries and aquatic life. I

4-29 I 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ l

Parameter No pH EC (T.) (m 1) (P 1) Bmg T DO 3_____ River gs~~~~~~~~~M/ cm (mng/I) (mg/i) (mg/I) (OC) (g1 1 Azarrood 8 453 0 0-2.66 0 - 0.24 0.85-1.9 6-14.9 10.5-10.6 2 Karsang 8.9 183.5 0-2.66 0-2.66 0 - 0.24 0.8-1.2 6-15.5 10.2-10.5 3 Eskilim 8.1 263 0-2.66 0-2.66 0 - 0.24 1.2-1.5 7-15 10.5-10.7 - _ _ _ - . ______Table 4-9 Quality of Rivers in the Upper Lands (1997)8

Surface Water Quality in the Middle Lands In the middle lands, the two main rivers are the Babol and Babolak. The latter joins the Babol just 3 downstream of the Alborz Dam site. Whilst the level of industrial and, in particular, agricultural activity is increased from that in the upper watershed, the quality in these rivers still appears to be fairly good, and suitable for both water supply purposes and ecological habitats.

Water quality monitoring data collected between 1999 and 2003 at Tamar station on the Babolak River, and Pashakola and Guran Talar stations on the Babol River (shown in Table 4-9) indicate rela- O tively low levels of total dissolved solids and major ions in these rivers - all indicators that pollution levels are relatively low. These data were supported by a one-off sampling exercise during the EIA of the in 1997 (Table 4-10), which showed reasonably high dissolved oxygen levels and relatively low nutrient and BOD levels.

arameter EC Anion (mg/I) Cation (mg/I( Quality pH gsm /cm mgT mgA ClT SH HCO2 2a Mg Na K SAR for drink- Class mg/I mg/I 2 ing River CL so HCO~~~ Mg Babolak (Tamar 7.8 392 258 170 9.2 12 5 192 39.2 17.3 9.2 1.2 0.31 Good C2-51

Babolrood (Pashakola 7.9 351 232 146 10 16.8 161 32.8 15.6 10.4 1.2 0.36 Good C2-S1 station) ____ BabOolnr)ood (Qoranta- 7.9 370 243 141 14.5 21.6 155.5 31.2 15.3 15.6 1.3 0.56 Good C2-51 lar)___ _ _ Kelarood (Diva 7.9 434 284 174 19.5 10.8 194 40 17.7 15.6 1.5 0.51 Good C2-SI station) I I_ 1 I1

3 Table 4-10 Average Chemical Quality of Surface Water in Middle lands (1999 - 2003)9 I l

8 Source: Mahab Ghodss (2002): Environmental Impact Assessment ofAlborz Dam 9Source: MGRWA - results of qualitative tests.

4-30 9/16/2004 l

No Parameter (mg/i) (N) (O.P) (P04) BOD5 T DO River (mg/I) (mg/I) (mg/I) (mg/i) (OC) (mg/)

3 I _____4 Babolak 0-2.6 0 0 0 - 0.24 0.6-0.9 8-20.9 9.6-9.9 5 Sajadrood 2.6 0 0 0 - 0.24 1-1.5 9-18.3 9.5-9.6 3 Table 4-11 Range of Biological Quality of Rivers in the Middle Lands (1997)IO However, whilst still within reasonable limits, conductivity and acidity levels are slightly raised above upper watershed conditions indicating the presence of pollution in this part of the project area. I It would therefore be appropriate to collect water quality data more systematically in this area in order to more precisely define the impacts of existing agricultural and industrial activities, and importantly to include an analysis of both nutrients and heavy metals in this analysis. This is also advisable due to I the apparent discrepancies in data collected in the lower lands over this period - as discussed in the next section.

Surface Water Quality in the Lower Lands In addition to the Babol, there are three other major rivers within the lower lands of the project area: the Talar, Siah and Sadjad rivers. The latter is a western tributary of the Babol that joins just down- I stream of the middle lands. The lower lands are also characterized by a series of ab-bandans (82 in all), or surface water storage ponds, that are used for irrigation supply and in some cases for fish cultivation. Several of these ponds (approximately 9) now have significant ecological value.

Agricultural activity in the lower lands is intense, in addition to which there are several major cities and about 300 recorded industrial units, of which Babolsar Fibre Factory is the largest, discharging I waste water directly into the Babol River. Surface water quality would therefore be expected to be poor. However, there are some deficiencies in the water quality data that have been collected in the area to support this analysis. Official data collected between 1999 and 2003 (Table 4-1 1 and Figures 4-13 and 4-14) ) remain inconclusive as regards to demonstrating whether quality is poor, with relatively low levels of total dissolved solids and major ions in these rivers (with the exception of chlorine levels, which are several times higher than WHO guidelines for drinking water supply). How- | ever, several parameters related to agricultural and industrial pollution were not measured. Conduc- tivity readings are higher than the upper catchment, which together with the higher levels of total dissolved solids and major ions is an indicator of increased pollution in the lower lands. Saline intrusion I in the lower reaches of the rivers will also play a part in this. I

10 Source: Mahab Ghodss (2002): Environmental Impact Assessment ofAlborz Dam and Irrigationand Drainage 3 Network 4-31 9/16/2004 U

I \tarameter Anion (mg/I) Cation (mg/Il( Quality pH EC TDS TH 2P SAR for drink- Class 2 2 River ~~~~~mg/IMmg C- So - HCO- ~ Mg Na' K' n

Babolrood (Koshtar- 7.9 700 232 230 65 52 231 50 25 50 2 I1.43 Good C2-S I " ~~~gahstation)

*ISadjadrood (Galoogah 8 414 291 180 21.3 20.6 190 40 19.2 15.2 1.5 0.5 Good C2-S 1 station) I Talar (Kiakola 8 610 400 230 33 60 221 50 25.5 30 1.92 0.84 Good C2-SI station) Siahrood Accept- (Sarakola 7.8 700 459 275 40 41 285 63 28 29 2.3 0.76 able- C2-SI station) Good 3 Table 4-12 Water Quality of Rivers in Lower Lands (1999 - 2003)

3 .. , 3._1_

207 l~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~3---L-:'-: 2 4 3 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~229

* Upper land Middle land Lower land

I|+-EC (pmh/cm) -+ TDS (mg/l) ATH (mg/1) I

Figure 4-9 Surface Water Quality Changes (EDS, TDS and TH) from Upper to Lower Lands (2002-2003) I U I

4-32 9/16/2004 l

10.5 3 ~~~~~~10 9es

I3 SR -uDg -4~ .--- *( 3

Upper land Middle land Lower land

3 -- SAR DO(mg/1) BODS(mg/l) >< Phosphate(mg/l)

Figure 4-10 Surface Water Quality Changes (SAR, DO, BOD5 and P04 in Middle and Lower Lands (2002-2003)

While the official data collected between 1999 and 2003 were inconclusive in demonstrating pollu- | tion levels in the lower lands surface waters, a more extensive range of data was collected in 1997 for the Alborz Dam EIA, as shown in Tables 4.12 and 4.13. These data demonstrated significant levels of both heavy metal contamination and coliforms in all of the major rivers, suggesting that the water J bodies suffer extensive pollution from a range of municipal, industrial and agricultural sources. The monitoring results indicated extensive contamination from three heavy metals in particular - mercury, lead and zinc - with pollution levels in several cases far exceeding WHO guidelines for drinking wa- I ter supply, particularly those of zinc and mercury. Moreover, the data were taken at various points in each river, and in each case showed an overall decline in quality from upstream to downstream (Fig- ures 4-14 to 4-19).

I l I

4-33 3 9/16/2004 m m m ------m m m m m m m -

Table 4-53 Waler Quality in Babolroodatfour different locations (1997)

Babolrood downstream of Babolrood upstream of Babol Babolrood downstream of Babolrood upstream of Babol- Parameter Unit Sadjadrood Babol sar 1 2 3 4 1 2 - 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 (EC) pLsm / cm 286 340 458 376 435 560 718 602 485 604 611 739 474 591 889 878 (pH) 8 8.2 8.2 8 8 8.2 8 8.1 8 8.3 8.1 8.1 7.9 8.4 8.4 8

(Na) meq/1 0 22 0.3 0.58 0.39 0.74 1.2 1.53 1.49 1 1.5 0.84 1.83 1.4 1.5 3.10 2.74 (Ca) meg/l 1.1 3 3.4 1.8 1 3.4 4.15 2.2 0.8 3.5 4.6 2.1 3 3 4.2 1.9 (Mg) meq/1 1.4 0.45 0.65 1.9 2.7 1.1 1.7 2.7 3.9 1.4 0.8 3.5 0.5 1.6 1.7 4.6 (CI) meq/l 0.8 1.35 1.7 1.4 1 1.60 0.35 2 1.1 1.65 3 2.8 (HCO3) meq/I - 2.9 3.6 5.1 4.3 2.5 3.5 5.5 4.8 2.1 3.3 5.2 5.1 (CO3) meq/I 0 0.4 0 0 0 0.8 0 0 0 1 0 0 (S04) meq/I - 0.9 0.5 0.35 0.55 1.45 0.6 0.2 0.7 1.6 0.3 0.9 1.2 (O.N) mg/l 5.3 0 2.66 0 2.66 0 0 - 2.6 2.6 2.66 - 0 2.66 0 - (N) mg/l 0 0 0 0 0 2.66 - 0 0 0 - 0 0 0 - (O.P) mg/l 0 0 0 0 0 0 - 0 0 0 - 0 0 0 -

(P0 4 ) mg/l 0 0 0 0.5 0.03 0.025 - 0.12 0 0 - 0.5 0 0 - (TDS) mg/l - - - 308 378 495 395 330 395 425 490 340 399 590 525 (BOD5) mg/l - 0.9 1.3 - 1.2 1 - - 1.4 1.4 - - 1.6 1.7 - (COD) mg/l 4 5 20 7 4 - 26 10 6 - 18 6 7 (B) mg/I (Se) mg/l - 0 0 0 0 0 - 0 0 -

Coliform MPN in 100 cc - - >1600 0 - - >1600 - - >1600 (Hg) pg / lit - 300 90 - 0 0 80 0 0 800 41.5 30 500 - (Pb) pg / lit - 50 0 110 15 80 0 3 275 120 0 10.5 5 60 0 (Cr) mg/I - - 0 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 0 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 0 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 0 (Cu) mg/l - <0o005 0.008 <00005 005 <0 005 0.015 0 005 0 005 0.007 0e015 0.007 <0 005 <0 005 0.00o (Zn) mg/I 70 60 240 35 40 50 148 65 100 50 135 30 90 60 (T) °C 9 9.9 17 18.2 9 11 16.8 19.5 10 12 20.8 20.2 9 12 21.4 21

(CaCO3 ) mg/l - - 185 225 292.5 245 185 245 270 280 175 230 295 325 (DO) mg/l - 10.4 9.6 - - 9.5 9.2 - - 8.2 8.8 - - 8.2 8.6 (TOC) mg/l 6.26 1.43 - 3.27 2.75 1.957 - 4.34 3.67 1.814 - 3.6 3.02 6.967 - 3 Flow rate m /sec ------4.84 - - - - - Flow velocity m/sec ------0.3

34 9/16/2004 Table 4-63 Water Quality in Talar and Siahrood Rivers Upstream and Downstream (1997)

Parameter Unit Talar river Upstream) Ta ar river Downstr a) Siahrood river (Upstr am) Siahrood river Downs eam) 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

(EC) VLSM/ cm 437 534 589 654 589 640 745 985 322 512 778 572 2921 2302 2538 1145

(pH) 8.2 8.2 8.1 8.2 8 8.2 8.1 8 7.9 8.25 8 8.1 7.9 8.3 8 8.1 (Na) meq/1 0.52 1.15 1.5 1.35 1.33 1.88 2.2 2.8 0.21 0.31 2.4 0.9 18.8 14.3 18.9 4.35 (Ca) meq/1 3 3.3 3.3 1.4 4.3 3 3.65 4.7 2.5 4.1 4.3 2.2 6.8 5.5 5.15 2.4 (mg) meq/1 0.8 1.6 1.3 4.1 0.7 2.2 1.75 3.6 0.3 1.1 1.7 3.1 4.2 4.4 3.85 5.6 (Cl) meq/1 0.45 1.1 0.9 1.2 1.4 2 2.1 2.8 0.2 0.3 1.9 0.4 19.5 15.5 16.85 3.4 (HCO3) meq/1 3.1 3.8 3.3 3.5 3 3 3.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 5.3 5.5 4.5 3.8 5.3 6.5 (CO3) meq/1 0 1 0 0 0 0.8 0 0 0 0.6 0 0 0 1 0 0 (SO4) meq/1 ------0 -

(O.N) mg/l 0 0 0 - 0 2.66 0 - 2.6 2.66 0 - 2.6 5.32 2.66 -

(N) mg/l 0 0 2.66 - 0 0 2.66 - 0 0 0 - 0 0 0 -

(O.P) mg/l 0 0 0 - 0 0.025 0 - 0 0 0 - 0 0 0 -

(Po 4 ) mg/i 0.14 0.05 0 - 0.3 0 0 - 0.6 0 0 - 0.24 0.025 0 - (BOD,) mg/I - 1.3 0.4 - - 1.9 1.1 - 1.4 1.8 - - 1.6 1.7 - (COD) mg/l ------

Coliform MPN in 100 cc - - >1600 - - - >1600 - - - | >1600 - - - >1600 - (Hg) .g / lit 130 0 300 - 472 670 400 - 20.5 1480 0 - 0 0 0 -

(Pb) ggg/lit 2.5 5 190 - 1.5 20 60 - 592 5 70 - 15 15 150 - (Cr) mg/I <0.01 0.01 <0.01 0 <0.0I <0.01 <0.01 0 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 0 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 0

(Cu) mg/I 0.008 0.005 <0 005 0.08

(CaCO3 ) mg/l 190 245 230 275 250 260 220 365 140 260 300 265 550 495 450 400 (DO) mg/l - - 10.2 10.1 - - 9.3 9 - - 10.1 11.1 - - 9.2 8.3

( I'OC) mg/l 4.51 0.44 1.584 - 5.19 7.72 4.487 - 7.77 5.91 4.487 - 5.94 7.36 7.069 - 3 Flow rate m /sec - - - 5.648 - 6.097 - - 0.08 0.72 - - - - Flow velocity rn/sec - 0.7 - -

35 9/16/2004 U I

I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~I 0 701- .. t' ;

Babolrood after Babolrood before Babol Babolrood after Babol Babolrood before SajadroodZ Babolsar Upsteam ------>------to ------>------Downstrearr

-- EC +pEmnmcmi-- Malax HgP pgIn ) NMaxPt jgIl -( -Max Zn(mgIt11

Figure 4-11 BabolroodRiver Qualitv Changes in Different Locations (1997)

I 11 Ii 4 .

0 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~0.040 107

Babolrood after Sajadrud Babolrood before Baboi Babolrood after Babol Babolrood before Babolsar |Upsteam ------>------to ------>------Downstrearr

3 [ -....r.....Pnospnate U B6D5 imgiI --- D¶irmgl,|

3 Figure 4-12 BabolroodRiver Quality Changes in Different Locations (1997)

4-36 9/16/2004 l l

800- -

600 1 ~~~~~~~~~500 /4--EC (pmh/cm)

400 - / Max Hg( pg/1) 300 1 -~---Max Pb( pg/1) - r- _ _300 Max Zn(mg/1) I~~~ 200

100 1 0

Talar river (Upstream) Talar river (Downstream)

I Figure 4-13 Talar River Quality Changes in Different Locations (1997) l

3 12- 1516~~~~~~1

6 Phosphate ll_BODS (mg11) 3 4 DO(mg1I)

0 Talar river (Upstream) Talar river (Downstream)

Figure 4-14 Talar River Quality Changes in Different Locations (1997) I 4-37 9/16/2004 l l

2500

2000

| -4--1500EC (ymh/cm)

|U0-Max Pb( pg/1) 1000~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~--Max~ ~ Zn(mg/1)

| 500

U ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~Siahroodriver (Upstream) Siahrood nver (Downstream)

Figure 4-15 SiahroodRiver Quality Changes in Different Locations (1997)

I10

* 6 |-Phosphate +BOD5 (mg/1)

l4 D-O(mgI1)

0~~~~~~1 8

Siahrood river (Upstream) Siahrood river (Downstream)

Figure 4-16 SiahroodRiver Quality Changes in Different Locations (1997)

4-38 9/16/2004 l l

The pattern of increases in EC, BOD5 and phosphate and decreases in DO indicate the degradation of the water in the rivers from the upper watershed to the lower lands due to waste water discharge to the rivers from industry, households and non-point source pollution from agricultural land. In par- I ticular, there is clear trend of increased heavy metals due to the deposition of heavy metal particles along with sedimentation of suspended load in the river. As a result, due to the lack of DO and existing anaerobic conditions, the heavy metal compounds are deposited easily.

Though the presence of high levels of Zn indicates agricultural pollution, it would have been expected that heavy metals such as Hg and Cu would also increase markedly downstream due to pollu- I tion from pesticides and other agro-chemicals. However, the 1997 results are not that clear. This is probably due to inadequate accuracy in laboratory tests and indicates the need for more regular sampling and upgrading of laboratory capacity (both human and equipment).

Finally, the declining EC value in the downstream parts of the three rivers is due in part to high levels of pollution. In the Siah River, the problem is about three times more severe than the other two U rivers. The reasons are two-fold: firstly, many of the agricultural drains flow into this river; and sec- ondly, there is a significant coastal (i.e. saline) influence on this river. 3 Yearly Variations in River Water Quality Changes over the years in water quality in Babol River at four different stations (upstream to downstream) are illustrated below. It is noted that changes over the years at the four stations do not show I a clear trend and the levels of the three water quality indicators - EC, SAR and TDS - are more or less stable over the years. With intensifying agriculture along the Babol River, a declining trend would have been expected, but this is not the case. However, the descending quality of water in Ba- I bol River from upstream stations to downstream stations should be noted (as discussed above). l l 3 l l l

4-39 I 9/16/2004 l I

I 1°° X X000

I 10 ______

0.1 l 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 * ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Year -- TDS(mg/D) - EC(pmh/cm) A SAR

I Figure 4-17 BabolroodRiver Quality Changes at PashakolaStation between 1993-2000

* 1000

* ~~~~~ _~~0.1 ______1989 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 Year

l t ~~~~~~~~~~-*TDS(mgI1)) m EC(pmih/cm) SAR| 3 Figure 4-18 BabolroodRiver Quality Changes at QarantalarStation (1989-2000) I 4-40 I 9/16/2004 l I

I ~~~~~~1000 ...... *

100 ______

1 1 - ______1_ _

l 1989 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 Year 3+---TDS(mng/))-u- EC(pmh/cm) -+-SAR

Figure 4-19 BabolroodRiver Quality Changes at Babol Station (1989-2000)

1 ~~~~1000-u= .

0.1 3 1989 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 Year | +.- TDS(mrg/l)) +u- EC(pn1hIcm) -+-- SAR

Figure 4-20 BabolroodRiver Quality Changes at MiandashtStation (1989-1999)

4-41 I 9/16/2004 I I

Quality of Water in Ab-bandans In addition to river water quality, some sporadic water quality sampling in four of the main ab- bandans took place in 1996, as shown in Table 4-16. As would be expected, the water quality char- I acteristics were similar to those of the rivers, including with respect to heavy metal (mercury and zinc) contamination in some cases. This is a particular concern where ab-bandans are being used for aquaculture. Eutrophication was also evident in some cases, with plant species such as Sparganium I neglectum present in large quantities - an indicator of high nutrient levels in the water from agricultural runoff. In addition, whilst most data were collected during the winter months only, in the one ab-bandan (Ramnat) where data were collected during summer as well, the water quality appeared to drop significantly as a result of the reduced volume and depth of water. I I I I I I I I I I I

4-42 I 9/16/2004 ------m m - m - m m m m -

Table 4-74 Water quality in some selected ab-bandans in lower lands (1996)

Paameter EC HCo- \ParameterpH CO,3Co3 O.N N O1P (P04 ) BOD Hg Pb Cr Cu Zn DO TOC T

Ab-bandan c ____/Pl l mg/lit mg/lit mg/l mg/I mg/l mg/I mg/l _ 9 J_ 9 mg/I mg/I mg/I mg/I mg/Il 0.002 0- 3.2- Upstream Ramnat 684 7.6-7.7 4.5-4.6 0.2 0.37-3.66 0-5.4 0-0.53 0 1.2-1.8 230-445 0.20 <0.01 - 20-110 3.2-9 9.4 10-30 0.005 1 9.6 Aghoozben 797 8-8.2 5.7-5.8 0 0 0 0 0.05 1.7 0 10 <0.01 0.02 60 8.4-9.3 5.16 12 10.5- Roshandan 1320 7.9-8 2.8-2.9 0 2.66 0 0.025 0 1 0 15 <0.01 0.006 55 8.8-9.3 10.83 12.5

Downstream Kaadime 823 8.3-8.5 5.2-5.5 0.3-0.5 2.66 0 0 0 1.6 0 0 <0.01 0.014 100 8.6-9 4.43 11-13 anim esi______

4-43 9/16/2004 l I

Although the limited data collected would appear to support the conclusion that surface water qual- I ity is poor in the lower lands, more extensive and systematic data collection needs to be carried out in the major ab-bandans in order to assess the true extent of the problem, particularly in those ab- bandans that are being used for fish cultivation and/or those with high ecological value. This data collection would need to be carried out on a regular basis, and in different seasons.

Groundwater Quality I The availability of groundwater quality data in the project area is fairly limited. Sporadic data collected by the MGRWC from a series of springs and wells in 2002, shown in Table 4-7, appear to indicate that groundwater quality in the upper watershed and middle lands is reasonably good. Total I dissolved solids and major ion content are all within defined thresholds for both agricultural and drinking water supply.

Parameter EC TDS TH Anion (mg/1) Cation (mg/I( Na SA Quality for pH sm/acm me mg/l S- HCO 2 %a R drinking Class Area Mg9/I CF3l Ca' Na drinkin

Lower Lands 8 1590 910 432 184.6 225.6 414.8 104 42 154.1 4 38.3 3.1 Acceptable C3-S1 Middle Lands 7.8 795 533 325 56.8 321.6 103.7 78 31.2 34.5 1.6 18.1 2.81 Acceptable - C3-SI ______~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ IGood I I (Only sprngs) 8 495 316.5 240 8.9 24 250.1 52 26.4 5.75 1.6 4.52 0.16 Good C2-SI U Table 4-85 Average Quality of Groundwater in the Upper, Middle and Lower Lands of the Project Area (2002 - 2003)"

I The quality of groundwater in the lower lands is progressively poorer, as shown in both Table 4-7 and Figure 4-1 1, with higher levels of all contaminants measured. Most of the wells in this area are shallow, and are used for both agricultural and drinking purposes. As a result, they suffer from pol- I lution due to a range of factors, including: (i) leaching of pesticides and fertilizers; (ii) leaching from solid waste dumps; and (iii) waste water discharge into absorption wells, which is the most common method of discharging industrial waste water. I I

3 Source: MGRWA 2003

4-44 I 9/16/2004 l I lI 1800

3 1600

1000

I 800

60053

1 ~~~~400 325

l 200 38 3

0 Upper land Middle land Loaer land

+---EC (pmh/cm) a-TDS (mgA) +TH (mg/l) - o Na% lI Figure 4-21 Groundwater Quality Changesfrom the Upper to the Lower Lands (2002-2003) A major limitation of the available data is the general lack of information about microbiological contamination. Occasional samples collected from wells in the Babol area indicate high coliform levels, which are likely to be prevalent across the area (for example, 36 wells in the Babolsar city region were sampled in 2001 showed particularly high value, well in excess of drinking water standards). Moreover, since drinking water in the area is frequently disinfected with chlorine, more data are required concerning residual chlorine levels in groundwater contaminated by domestic waste water.

3 4.1.12 Waste water Waste water is mainly produced in the lower areas due to the high population density, the intensive agricultural activities and the number of industries located there. This sub-section thus focuses on the lower areas.

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- Agricultural effluent Household effluent Industrial effluent

Area name Discharge Discharge Percent Discharge Discharge Percent Discharge Discharge Percent into Sur-face G of total into Surface ioundwato of total into Surface n of total *hawater(%)Joybar water |A)effluent water(%) (%) effluent water(%) water (o) effluent

_ _Amol-Babol 83.3 16.7 91.1 49.4 50.6 8.7 73.8 26.2 0.2 Ghaemshahr-Joybar 40 60 84.4 53 47 14.6 71.8 28.2

l Table 4-96 Waste water Generated by Different Sectors in the Lower Lands (2001)12

3 The main pollutants of water in the project area are domestic, industrial and agricultural waste water discharged. The majority of this waste water goes to surface waters with the remainder discharging into the groundwater, or absorption wells. In Amol-Babol valley, the agricultural waste water flows 3 mostly into the surface water (83.3%), while in Ghaemshahr-Joybar, it is mostly discharged in the subsurface water (60%). In the case of industrial sector, 70% of the waste water is discharged into the surface water. The waste water produced from domestic activities discharges into the surface 3 waters and disposed wells equally.

Municipal and Rural Waste waters (point & non-point sources) 3 The most important urban areas are Babol (population 185,000), Ghaemshahr (160,000), Babolsar (45,000), Joybar (27,000) and Amirkola (22,000). There are no waste water collection and treatment facilities in the project area. Sewage and treatment facility projects are, however, being prepared in 3 Babol and Babolsar (with support from World Bank). In most of the cities and villages in this area, waste water is discharged in absorbing wells. In some areas, waste water is directly discharged into the rivers. In Babol city, the waste water including household and that from municipal activities is 3 discharged directly into the Babolrood at eight discharge points. Details of the eight points and observations of the colour of waste water is shown in Table 4-10

No. Coordination Address Considerations

I" X = 648696 Babol - under Mouziraj bridge - located in The color of waste water is mod- Y = 4044407 the first of Amol - Babol roud erately clear water is mod- 2 2 Y=Y- 40456956404569 BaoBabol - GeleeeMhlherately Mahaleh The colorclear of waste X= 649100 4 Babol - 300 m upstream of slaughterhouse The color of waste water is clear

4 -Babol - 800 m upstream of slaughterhouse The color of waste water is clear l 5 X-649383 Babol-Ghazi kafi square - near to fire station The color is dark The color is moderately clear but 6 X=649064= 4047854 Babol - Hamzeh kola - Amirkabir avenue it is clear

X= 649353 Babol - Hamzeh kola - Behind Azad univer- I 7 Y= 4048046 sity (300 m downstream of the 6th location) Color is clear 8 X= 4051190 Amirkola - Amirkola Bazar Color is so dark

13 l Table 4-107 Description of DischargePoint of Municipal Waste water into BabolroodRiver

"Source: MOE Technical Office. 13 Source: Field data collection

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| The amount and quality of urban and rural waste water is not being measured regularly. However, during the project for collecting system of urban waste water in Babol and Amirkola cities (Mahab Ghodss - 2002), the per capita urban waste water which was measured can be extended to the other I cities. The household consumption of water is about 2201/capita/day and the conversion coefficient for waste water is 90%. So, the per capita production of waste water in these cities is about 2001/day. The urban population in the project area is about 490,000. Therefore, the waste water pro- I duced totals 98.000 m3/day. If surface runoff and drainage water is added, the total volume of urban waste water totals 1 10,000 m3/day in the project area.

| The daily consumption of water in the rural areas is about 731/capita. With a population of 448,000 and a conversion coefficient of 80%, the total waste water produced in the rural area is about 27,000 m3 /day.

The quality of urban and rural waste water has not been tested, and there is currently no program for this. The responsibility for waste water rests with the Rural and Urban Waste water Organisation (of I MOE). When considering estimates from other parts of Iran and the regional conditions, the amount of daily pollution could be estimated as 50 grams of BOD5/capita and 60 grams of suspended particles/capita. The amount of these pollutions in the urban areas would, according to national average values, be approximately 195 mg/i and 231 mg/l. This is four times higher than the threshold values recommended by DOE.

Agricultural Waste water (non-point pollution) I . - J Agricultural activities are concentrated in the lower lands of the project area, and therefore this area is mainly important AmirkoXa domestic waste water discharge when considering agri- Babol domestic waste water discharge J Amirkola domestic waste water discharge cultural waste water in s- . q terms of amount of effluent, discharge points to rivers, and wa- I :-.- ter quality. According to MGRWA and the earlier studies for preparation of the irrigation and drainage network, the amount of water re- J turned from agricultural areas into the Amol-Babol valley to surface and groundwater is about 470mcm and 80mcm, respectively. In the Ghaemshar-Joybar valley it is 53mcm and 78mcm, respectively.

The two valleys have some of the highest rates of agricultural fertilizer and pesticide use in Mazan- I daran. The dominant crop is rice. Water from the fields is commonly released between mid-August to early September. Before this, when paddy fields are water logged, the effluent seeps through to the shallow groundwater. Agricultural waste water contains high levels of phosphate, nitrogen, pot- I ash, and pesticides. Since the sub-surface waters in the area have not been surveyed completely, the exact amounts of fertilizer and pesticide infiltrated are not known. However, the amount of pollution 3 would be quite significant because of the short distance between effluent and groundwater table.

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The north-western, section of the project area located on the lower lands often suffers from water shortage (which is why the Alborz Dam is being constructed). When water shortage occurs, pollution is concentrated and water quality extremely poor. Near Babolsar (at the mouth of the Babol- rood) 10 larger pumping stations are located. The pump- I ing stations supply water for irrigation to the north- western part of the project area. Due to the low precipita- I tion, in the summer months pumped water is required, and water for pumping is stored behind a temporary (inflatable) dam. This water is likely to be polluted, but I the quality not tested regularly. When testing the water quality, the indices of each fertilizer or pesticide should be taken into account so that movement and penetration I of these materials can be studied and analyzed based on Derazkola village agricultural the concerned index. effluent discharge

Industrial Waste water (point pollution) Although the amount of industrial waste water is less than urban and agricultural effluents, it is of great importance because it contains a variety of materials that are potentially hazardous. In the middle lands, there are a few industries, but no detailed information about the quality or quantity of I discharge of waste water. As mentioned earlier, most of the industries are located around the big cities and along the main roads in the lower lands.

3 Most of the industries are located in Babol city (42.5%), Ghaemshahr city (40%), and Babolsar city (17.5%) respectively. About 46% of the industries are adjacent to the Babolrood River. The types of industries U include food and medicinal industry (8%), textile and leather industry (15%), chemical industry (15%), wood industry (8%), and non-metal mineral industry (54%).

The waste water from slaughterhouses in Babol and Amirkola cities are discharged directly into the Babol- I rood without being treated. This pollution is hazardous to humans and animals. Waste water of the abattoir in Babol is discharged through a pipe that passes along the Babol slaughterhouse waste water I local routes with serious smell nuisance. This kind of discharge pollutes not only soil and water but also the air in the area (highly bad smell). The slaughterhouse in Babolsar city discharges its waste water into the Caspian Sea directly; it is not located along the Babolrood River.

An interesting case is a dairy plant (Govara Messes), which proposed to discharge waste water di- I rectly into the Babolrood River if the local authorities and the citizens accepted the project. The waste water was supposed to be carried into the river through a canal or a pipe 1.5 km long. But the project was cancelled due to massive protests by the citizens. At present, this factory is closed. The example illustrates a growing environmental awareness and concern among the urban population.

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Table 4-11 below shows details of the main polluting industries in the project area and Map 1-60- PO-0 1 in Annex A shows the location of major industries.

* ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Wastewater Waste Waste water No. Industry rate water qual- disposal Address (m3fday) ity I Babol flour plant Absorption well 7th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsar road, west side plants Babol flour Absorption well (Distance from east coast of Babolrood river is 500m) 2 Gostaresh-vasaiel- Absorption well .5h-kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, east side Khodro- Asia 7 3 Bobol Melamin Absorption well 7 .5t -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, east side

pAria Babol-plimer Absorption well 7 51h -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, east side 5 MzRangsazi Gilan & Absorption well 8th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, west side Mazandaran SAlborz beton Absorption well 8th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, west side 7 Sazeb - - Absorption well 8th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, west side TAlborz bAbsorptioncarpet well 10th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, east side 9 Tirche bolok Absorption well 12th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, east side Compressor Absorption well 12th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, east side production 1 Fara sanat -- Absorption well 12.5th -kilometer of Babol to Babolsarrood, east side 12 Shokofe 12.4 It is closed 13 Fiber Babolsar 0.7 Directly discharge Babolsar-Miandasht-Next to rubber dam-Discharge point 13 Fiber Babolsar 0.7 - to Babolrood UTM coordination is :x = 647309 y = 4061371 * 14 Babolkenar Govara Babolsar-between Qoran talar & Sayed-kola-1 .5km- far dairy product from east coast of Babolrood. It is closed Dane - Tala stone Directry discharge Babol to GanjAfrooz and road-300 m upstream of Che- _~~~~~~ 15 cu.n to Baboroo hreh stream - located in west side of Babolrood river. i t d UTM Coordmation: x = 655919, y = 4023974 D ;16 Babol Ghaem stone Directry discharge GanjAfrooz - East side of Babolrood coast - 700 m cutling to Babolrood downstream of the dam 17 Charisang stone Directry discharge Chari village - west side of Babolrood coast - west of X7 cutling to Babolrood chari bridge 1 18 Lahimche stone Directry discharge GanjAfrooz - East side of Babolrood coast near to chari cutling to Babolrood village 19 Babolrood stone to Bdbilrood Paeen GanjAfrooz village - West side of Babolrood coast

20 Lain cooping - Absorption well Siadarka village - 20"' km of Babol road - 3th km of - r ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Babolrood east coast 21 Babol Slaughter- 47 BOD5 = Directry discharge Babol - Geleh Mahalch or Aramgah - east coast of Ba- house 1750 to Babolrood bolrood. UTM coordination: x = 648927, y = 4045699 *22 Amirkola Slaugh- 29 BOD5 = Directry discharge Amirkola - Slaughterhouse - east coast of Babolrood - 22 terhouse 1750 to Babolrood UTM coordination: x = 648992, y= 4050801 23 Textile No.3 16.5 BOD5 = 315 Directry discharge Ghaemshahr - Army road to Talar _24 Central Alborz Coal Directry discharge 24 mine 72 to Talar Near to Zirab nver

25 Shirgah wood 100 8 - Directiy discharge Shirgah cutting to Talar 26 Mazandaran Textile 54 BOD5 = 950 Directry discharge Ghaemshahr- Sari road No. I to Siahrood *I27 Ghaemshahr textile 12.6 BOD5 = 245 Directiy discharge Ghaemshahr - Sari road 27 No.2 to Siahrood 28 Sacking 1.26 BOD5 = 5 Directr discharge Ghaemshahr- Sari road ______to_Siahrood ______29 Conserve produc- 7.5 BOD5 = 280 Directry discharge Ghaemshahr tion I ______I _ _ _ _ to Siahrood ______Table 4-118 Location of PollutingIndustries and type of effluent disposalin Lower Lands I

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I| 4.1.13 Solid Waste

| Urban Solid Waste in Lower Lands In the lower lands, with cities, industries and intensive agriculture, soil pollution is caused by domestic waste, industrial waste and agro-chemicals. There are 5 townships (Babol, Babolsar, Joybar, Amirkola, Zirab and Ghaemshahr) and 18 urban areas in the project area. Solid waste in the lower I lands is generally collected throughout the regions controlled by the municipalities. However, Babol 3 is an exception because municipal solid waste services cover only 80% of the city.

The table below shows that the two largest, and most urbanised cities, Babol and Ghaemshar have the highest total generation of solid waste by far, but it should also be noted that Babolsar and Joy- I bar produce more solid waste per capita than Ghaemshar. With an urban population of about 490,000 the total amount of waste produced in all of the area's cities is estimated at about 384 * ~~~tons/day.

o / .Area Percentage of Rate of genera- Genera on (T,onnes/dav) No City (kmn2 population under tion per capita Spring Summer Fall Winter Average urban services (g/cap/d) 18 17 17.5 17.25 I l _I Amirkola 8 100 700 16.5 2 Babolsar 13.5 100 970 45 50 42 38 44 3 Babol 32 80 1000 145 150 140 140 144 4 Joybar 8.3 100 815 22 24 22 20 22 5 Zirab 5.5 100 450 12 15 10 8 11.25 6 Ghaemshahr 26 100 760 120 130 120 115 120 Average: 96.7 782.5 60 65 59 56 60 Table 4-129 Solid Waste Generation in major cities in the project area (2002-2003)14 Solid waste studies in Babol and Ghaemshahr has determined the municipal solid waste contents as follows.

l __ ___ .__ Percent of contents __ No City Paper Plastic Glass Metal PET Textile Wood Compostable

______m aterials 1 Babol 11.5 9.4 2.2 4 0.4 4.5 3 65 2 Ghaemshahr 5.8 11 1.3 4 0.6 2.7 0 75 Average 8.65 9.7 1.75 4 0.5 4.95 1.5 | 70 I Table 4-20 Solid Waste Contents in in two Cities of Babol and Ghaemshahr (2002-2003)'5 The humidity of municipal waste is reported to be about 70-80%. This is quite critical because such U amount of humidity can cause a high amount of leachate produced by wastes that, in turn, can increase soil and water pollution. Due to inadequate studies and field testing, there is no information about the quality of leachate produced in this area. However based on the average determined for the waste leachate produced in Iran, the amount of BOD5 is about 20,000-30,000 mg/l.

I4 Source: Municipalities' Organization, Ministry of the Interior I~15 Ibid. 4-50 U 9/16/2004 l l

I Table 4-13 shows the equipment and facilities used in the area to collect and transfer municipal solid wastes.

I r Respon sible sector Tpe of collection facilities and number No City Private SldRolling Municipality sector Both Cart Vanette Lorry waste Tractor colling Tiler

I Amirkola 100% 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 Babolsar 100% 18 5 4 0 1 7 0 I ~ ~~3Babol - -* 140 20 9 5 1 0 10 4 Joybar 100% 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 5 Zirab 100% - - 5 I 3 0 0 0 0 6 Ghaemshahr - 100% 60 12 3 1 0 5 0 Total 225 41 23 6 2 12 10 I Table 4-131 Facilities Used to Collect Municipal Wastes in the Area in 2002-2003'6

Municipal waste is generally disposed by unsanitary land filling or open dumping. Babol is the only city where a plan was introduced to improve the sanitary conditions of the landfill. The project is now being implemented but faces several problems due to limited technical capacity and know-how, shortage of suitable land and inadequate facilities for incineration and recycling. In addition, leachate is still a problem. In Babol, a compost plant is also under construction. It is noteworthy that it is difficult to find a suitable place in Mazandaran province to dispose waste due to the population density and the intensity of agricultural and industrial activities. Another challenge is the shallow groundwater table. In 2001-2002, the municipal waste produced in Babol and Amirkola was even disposed at Tehran landfill. The reason was that there was no suitable place to dispose wastes lo- cally. Furthermore, the local people were against the site suggested by the municipalities. During a critical time, garbage was not collected for a month which created many problems for residents. The media released many reports about the case. Now, the waste produced in the area are disposed in an area called "Anjilci", which is 35km from Babol. It is located in western south bank of Babolrood River (outside the project area, but inside the extended project area). Here, waste disposal is handled in a sanitary way. It should be noted, however, that in some parts of the project area waste is disposed directly in rivers, the Caspian Sea, or in neighbouring lands resulting in severe soil and water pollution.

I It should also be noted that only in Babol and Ghaem- * - shahr is hospital waste separately collected. Yet it is disposed in the same place where other kinds of wastes are land filled. In general, the cities in this area produce 1400 kg of hospital wastes. The infectious wastes pro- 3 duced by the hospitals are burnt in non-standard incin-

______Roadside dumping at Babol * 16 Ibid.

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erators (i.e. with air pollution control equipment) in Babol, Amirkola and Zirab.

As mentioned before, the waste collection services do not cover Babol thoroughly. So, in some ar- I eas, people dispose their wastes in the lands adjacent to the roads. The current handling and modes of solid waste are anticipated to lead to severe pollution of soil and I water in the project area. Unfortunately, current monitoring of soil pollution and water quality is highly inadequate, so it is not possible at this stage to establish a clear picture of the specific soil 3 pollutants and the extent of the problem.

Rural Solid Waste According to the estimation for 2002-2003, about 448,000 people live in villages within the project U area. It includes Babolkenar, Getab, and Markazi from Babol Township, Behnamir, Roodbast, and Markazi from Babolsar Township, and all villages in Joybar, Savad-kuh and Ghaemshahr Town- ships. Waste produced per capita in the rural areas is about 1.1 kg/day. The total waste produced in rural areas is therefore around 490 tons/day.

The information about composition of the rural wastes is not complete. However, these wastes are I mainly organic, such as dung, leaves, rotten vegetables and topping residues; i.e. items that are of little danger for the environment because they are easily decomposed naturally and contain little or no hazardous materials.

At present, disposal of rural solid wastes is not carried out in a planned manner, and waste is mainly disposed in lands adjacent to the villages, into the rivers, ab-bandans, and some times trenches sur- I rounding the villages. In order to manage waste disposal in the rural areas (using the same system in collecting municipal wastes) the Recycling Organization in Mazandaran province has proposed measures for recycling, though this is not enforced yet. It should also be noted that municipalities in some of the cities in the area are now collecting and disposing the surrounding rural wastes, too.

The consumption pattern of the villagers is changing toward using packaging materials. At present, the amount of waste from plastics, cans, PET bottles, etc. is increasing in rural areas.

Industrial Waste I In the project area, 97 major industries are located within urban service area. A list covering the most important industries is shown in Table 4-14 below. There are also industries that urban services do not cover. They are distributed along the main roads. The amount of waste produced and the disposed locations are not clearly identified.

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No Name of industry Capacity per Address Product

year ______1 Nasaji Talar 6,000,000 m2 Ghaemshahr- kilometer 3- Army road Textile 2 Nasaji Ghaemshahr 14,000,000 m2 Ghaemshahr- Sari street Textile 3 Gonibafi Ghaemshahr 5,000 tone Ghaemshahr-Sari street Burlap 4 Conserve Ghaemshahr 7,000 tone Ghaemshahr-Sari street Conserve 5 Ahmad and Asgar Rezaie rice 1,000 tone Ghaemshahr-beltiny road next to Rice processing Imam sq. 6 Tavooni Dorodgaran 4,000 tone Ghaemshahr-Sari-Babol road Wooden cupboard 7 1 Fainance spinning 3,000,000 m2 Ghaemshahr-kilometer 2 army road Fiber 8 Bahman steel technology 9,000 tone Metal profiles company 9 Pars clone company 630,000 piece Ghaemshahr-Sari freeway Types of doorknob 10 Nasam company 20,500 stokes Ghaemshahr-kolometer 2 Kiakola Saturated wood 11 North wood Shahram com- 1320 m3 . . Wooden cupboard l____ pany 12 North fodder company 3000 tone Babol- Kilometer 7 Gholshahr road Fodder 3 13 Taksa company 2,100,000 Babol- Shaiekh Tabarsi street VHS tape * ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~piece 14 Kiafarin industry 18,300 tone Amirkola- Dievkola Anti freezer 15 Mahbobkhani flour 24,000 tone Babol-HamzehKola sq Wheat flour 16 . 550,000 piece Babol-Shariati sq-Next to Ogaf Types of nail w ~~~~~Toghi-kar company pamc l ~~~~~~~~~~~~pharmacy 17 Kiafarin 850 tone Amirkola- Dievkola Types of tapper |18 Kiafarin 440 tone Amirkola-Dievkola Plastic pieces 19 Shams Sakieneh clothing 12,000 piece Amirkola-Sajadi way Stretch clothing 20 Shahpour dievkalati 50 tone Amirkola-Shahid Naser street Plastic pieces 21| Kiafarin 1,800 tone Amirkola-Dievkola Metal can 22 475,000 piece Florescent reflector *Mazi < noor company Babol-Moozi bridge lamp

| g 23 Shahid Basir industry affili- Babol-Kilometer I Amol road Vehicle parts ated to air force B 24 Tabarestan textile 5,000,000 m2 Ghaemshahr-Sari street Textile 25 Babolsar fiber 7,500 m3 Babolsar Types of fiber 26 Kiana food industry 3,300 tone Babolsar-Daryakenar-rajkasar street Types of conserves 27 Kosha gin company 6,000 tone Babolsar-Beheshti street Cotton and oil seeds

Table 4-142 List of Important Industries inside Urban Services Area- Year 2002-2003

| According to an initial assessment, it was found that almost all industrial wastes except those produced by the food industries are either sold or returned into production. However, no information is available about the quantities of industrial waste handling. In Babol, industrial waste is generally collected by the municipality. The total industrial waste in Babol is reported as approximately 1.4 I'9/16/2004 4-53 l I

tonnes/day. In Babol, industrial waste is disposed in the same locations as other municipal waste. Industrial waste are generated in much lower quantities than domestic solid waste, but since the properties (concentration of pollutants) in the industrial waste is not known it is not possible to as- I sess the current levels of soil pollution from industries. Solid Waste in the Upper andMiddle Lands Sources of soil pollution in the upper and middle lands are very few. Of the few industries, Kar-sang coal mine near to Savad-kuh is of some importance. The waste resulting from washing coal is discharged in an area in the Talar Basin, close to Zirab, eastern bank of Talar river branches adjacent to I Azadmehr township. 4.1.14 Pollution from Agriculture | Agriculture represents a major source of pollution in the project area through residues of pesticides and excess fertilisers. Quite considerable amounts of agro-chemicals are applied in the lower lands of the project area, which has intensive agricultural production, of rice in particular, but the production of citrus and horticultural products is also of major importance.

Agrochemicals are subsidized by the GOI to facilitate increased production. While fertilizer subsi- U dies remain high, the subsidies for chemicals for pests, weeds and disease control have declined in recent years as a result of a policy to reduce the negative environmental impacts from use of these * chemicals.

Fertilizers Average amounts of fertilizer applied in paddies, dry land farming and citrus production is shown in J Table 4-15 below and shows considerable, but not excessive amounts applied per hectare. Citrus production is obviously a main consumer of fertilisers, with almost one tonne/ha applied per year.

IFertilizer Paddy (kg/ha) Dryland farming (kg/ha) Citrus (kg/ha) Nitrate 207 122 200 Phosphate 180 139 405 Potash 77 187 304 Total 464 448 909 3 Table 4-153 Average annualfertiliserapplication per ha in the project area

I Excess fertilizers, mainly phosphates and nitrates not used by field crops, infiltrate through the soil and eventually reach groundwater, or are carried with drainage water to surface water bodies. The consequence of this is soil and water pollution with hazardous substances and eutrophication of surface water bodies (especially paddies and ab-bandans). One example of the latter, is the recent spreading of flourishing algae in surface waters due to high levels of nutrients which have cause 3 human disease.

The use of fertilizers reaches its peak in the first quarter of the year. There has been a tendency that 3 farmers have believed in "the more the better" in terms of fertilizer, not realising the optimum doses

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3 to apply for best economic return which is not necessarily the highest amounts. Adjustment of the current doses to reduce negative environmental impacts and improve return rates for farmers re- 3 mains a challenge for the agricultural extension services. Pesticides Mazandaran Province uses 35% of the total amount of pesticides used in Iran. The amount of various pesticides used for the main cropping patterns in the project area are shown below.

Type of pesti- Paddy (kg/ha) Dry farming (kg/ha) Gardening (kg/ha)

cid e______Pesticide 5.1 1.7 8.5 Fungicide 1.7 3.2 2 Tickcide - 1.5 3 Herbicide 15 5.5 8 3 Total 21.8 11.9 21.5 Table 4-164 Quantity of Pesticides used based on Cropping Type in the Mazandaran In terms of total quantities in Mazandaran, herbicides (656,384 kg/year) is the most widely used, with pesticides (with 24,320 kg/year), fungicides (with 112,691 kg/year) and tickcides (with 33,762 kg/year) also being consumed in considerable amounts. U In Iran pesticide procurement is the responsibility of the government and is carried out by the Agri- cultural Support Services Company which also has the duty of providing other agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and certain seeds. Based on a list of yearly needs provided by PPO the Agricul- tural Support Services Company invites international companies to tender for the supply of pesticides. Almost 70% of the needs are met by domestic producers and the rest is supplied by importers Gradual privatization of pesticide supply and the phase out of all pesticide subsidies is a policy adopted by the government a few years ago and preparations for implementation are being made by the Ministry of Agricultural Jihad. At present a number of pesticides are being supplied by produc- 3 ers and importers, which is seen as a step forward in pesticide privatization. With all pesticides used in agriculture procured by the government, pesticide imports are carefully controlled. In recent years, GOI has reduced subsidies and restricted the availability of pesticides based on a policy to reduce negative environmental impacts and promote biological pest control. However, despite tight regulatory measures, cases of illegal movement of pesticides between prov- 3 inces have occurred.

Another problem is the farmers' understanding of pesticide use. Pesticides intended for certain crops are commonly used on others, with limited effect and with environmental pollution as the consequence.

Pollution from pesticides increases the levels of metals (for example Cu, Zn, Cr) and poisonous substances in water and soil. In addition, the handling of pesticides poses a health hazard for farmers, who are often not aware of this. Finally, pollution from pesticides also occurs when pesticide con- 3 tainers are disposed of. Usually the containers are burned by farmers or if close to urban areas dis-

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posed with normal waste. There is no organised waste disposal for hazardous chemicals and no incineration capacity to handle such materials in Mazandaran.

Biological control has been the core of integrated management of rice, citrus, cotton and soya bean pests in Mazandaran and certain other provinces, for some time now, making significant achievements. However, laboratory rearing of the natural control agents' maternal bases, efficient species identification, rearing methods, mass release and natural host rearing activities are activities which could need more and better managed research.

Although biological control of pests in rice, citrus and some other crops in the framework of IPM has been going on in Mazandaran for a long time no assessment of the impact of this and other control methods or comparative studies have been carried out yet. Pilot studies in Mazandaran (the project area) on the effectiveness of non-chemical control methods and their development in the future years are recommended.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Integrated Pest Management is being promoted by the Plant Protection Office (PPO) of MOJA, Ma- zandaran. The PPO has 15 staff (2 senior experts, 11 specialises and 2 technicians) and holds responsibility for cultural crop pest control, tree pest control, plant quarantine, pesticides, sprayers and non- chemical control.

One plant protection expert is placed at municipality level. He is assisted by a technician in some towns. There are no plant protection personnel in the rural agricultural service centres, which implies that extension and advisory support to farmers in rural areas is limited.

The provincial plant pest management personnel employ various control methods including cultural and mechanical control, light traps, and natural enemies (biological control); always recommending chemical control as the last option. Monitoring networks and early warning committees study the pest biology and the information carefully collected on growth of the concerned plants to decide on whether and how to carry out control operations.

In addition, the PPO has laboratory facilities to identify of plant pathogens such as fungus, nema- tode, and some viruses and bacteria.

For biological pest control, insectariums are used to rear useful insects such as Trichogramma, Cryptolaemus, Vedalia and Bracon. These are used against field and orchard pests on quite a large I scale in Mazandaran. In total, biological pest control has been or is applied on 28,000ha of the project area (lower lands only). The area where biological pest control is practiced in various municipalities in the project area is shown below. However, it should be noted that Table 4-17, below re- I veals areas where biological control measures are being applied - but this does not imply that agro- chemicals for pest and disease control are no longer used at all. l

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Municipality Area under Biological Pest Control (ha) Savadkuh 1100 Babol 13800 Ghaemshahr 4800 Babolsar 6100 Juybar 2900 Total 28,700 Table 4-175 Area under Biological Pest Control I The PPO has an IPM programme in Mazandaran Province and good intentions to expand this programme. However, limited manpower, inadequate staff capacity (technical) and limited transport facilities renders the expansion of the programme rather slow. There is scope for supporting the ongoing programme under the AILWMP also considering the requirements of World Bank Safeguard l ~~~Policy OP 4.09. U More details on current IPM and pest management activities in Mazandaran and on the overall policy and legal framework for pest management is provided in a Pest Management Plan attached as Annex D of this report. The report also contains lists of main pests and diseases and the common control measures in the project area.

Salinity I* Soil salinity levels in the project area should be monitored closely. Currently there are moderate to high levels of salinity caused by evaporation during flooding of paddy fields. Flushing of irrigated fields and effective drainage systems are required to limit or prevent this type of soil pollution which in the worst case can make the land un-useable for agriculture.

The sensitivity of the soil salinity is determined by the amount of clay and level of groundwater. It I was also categorized according to two parameters of EC and SAR. According to a survey in the project area17 , 6 % of the total agricultural fields in the lower lands are highly sensitive, 35% in average, and 16% of low sensitivity. In general, 57% of the lands are sensitive to soil salinity, while I 43% are not (mainly at high elevations). The sensitivity increases from the south to the north (coast of the Caspian Sea). This peaks in the irrigation improvement area (existing irrigation) between Ta- lar and Babolrood rivers. l I

3 "7Mahab Ghodss (2002): EIA of Alborz Dam and Irrigationand DrainageNetwork 4-57 I 9/16/2004 U I

1 4.2 Biological Environment In order to assess the possible impact of the AILWMP the following baseline conditions are addressed in this chapter.

In general terms the upper lands are forest clad with various degrees of pristine, disturbed and degraded forest. The forest is very diverse with some rare species represented. The lower lands consist almost exclusively of cultivated land both agriculture and fish ponds, whereas the middle lands are a mixture of the two on hills in the middle lands one finds forest (often replanted) and on less steep slopes agriculture and in places ab-bandans.

The extended project area can be divided into three ecological sections: lowland, forests and highlands * (areas above the forest). The distinction between these sections are not completely congruent with the distinctions of lower lands, middle lands and upper lands used in the project description, as the upper lands both cover parts of the forested areas and the vegetation above the forest.

The ecological divisions of these ecological sections are determined by the diagnostic species. The natural vegetations in the low land area was dominated by black alders (Alnus subcordata) and Caspian I honey locust (Gleditsia caspica), but almost no natural vegetation remain, as the area is intensively cultivated. In the forested areas area, the vegetation is dominated by different species of trees according to altitude, soil and slope. Some of the most dominant species are alders (Alnus subcordata) and beech * (Fagus orientalis).The area above the forest begins with shrubs such as hornbeam (Carpinus schuschaensis and Carpinus betulus) and ends with Juniper (Juniperus), locoweed (Astragalus), and prickly thrift (Acantholimon). The two last-mentioned are 30 cm tall cushion plants.

In the next pages, natural water and land environments, their sensitivity, outlook, and necessary programs to preserve wild life habitats and herbaceous provenances as well as vulnerable and rare species are discussed.

I 4.2.1 Flora & Fauna in the Ecological Sections

| Upper Lands The forest consists almost entirely of natural forest with a mixture of deciduous trees. The dominant species vary according to altitude, slope and soil. At lower levels near the dam in some places the forest has been planted and consist of monocultures of alder (Alnus), conifers and maple (Acer).

Logging is also carried out. In some places it was observed that only a minor fraction of the lumber * was used. There have been plans to construct a paper mill in the area. This has been strongly opposed by the DoE. I

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| Figure 4.24 View over the orests o the upperlands, here dominated by Fa us orientalis.

4 -4

I~~~~~~~~~~~~~BeloSsw is a ito oeo h otcmo pcenteupr lands s-;LX, I *9 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~'-D

I 9/16/2004' " I

Typical plant species at the upper lands (both forest and disturbed habitat)

Maple (Acer insigne & Acer lacetum), Bugle (Ajuga reptans), Silk tree (Albizzia julibrissin), Alder (Alnus sp), Wormwood (Artemisia sp.),.Wood ruff (Asperula odoratum), Sleen wort (Asplenium trichomanes), Dwale (Atropa bella-donna), I Beet (Beta sylvestris), Hard fern (Blechnum spicant), Box tree (Buxux hyrcana), Bear bind (Calystegia sp), Bellflower (Campanula sp.), Sedge (Carex sp.), Horn- beam (Carpinus betulus), Button (Conyza Canadensis), Hawthorn (Crataegus I monocarpa & Crataegus monogyna), Cyclamen (Cyclamen coum ssp. Caucasi- cum), Laurel herb (Daphne meseorum), Common thorn apple (Daturastramo- nium), Date-plum (Diospyros lotus), Wood fern (Dryopterissp.), Willow weed ( I Epilobium sp.), Barren wort (Epimedium pinatum), Horstail (Equisetum majus), Beech (Fagus orientalis), Fig(Ficus craica), Strawberry (Fragariasylvestris), Bedstraw (Galium odoratum), Avents( Geum urban um), Caspian honey locust * (Gleditsia caspica), Ivy (Hedera helix), Cowparsnip (Heracleum persicum), Johns worts(Hypericum androsaemum), Holly (Ilex aquifolium), Walnut (Juglans regia), Lappa major, Nipple wort (Lapsana communis), Pea wine (Lathyrus aphaca), * Wood rush (Luzulaforsteri), Medic(Medicago sp.), Mercury (Mercurialisperen- nis), Meldar (Mespillus germanicus), Mulberry (Morus alba), (Oplisnemus undulatifolius), Harts tongue (Phyllitis scolopendrium), Plantain(Plantagosp.) Knot * weed (Polygonum sp.), Malefern (Polypodium vulgare), Iron tree (Parotiaper- sica), Cinque foil (Potentilla caspica), Primrose (Primula acaulis & Primula elatior), Seltheal (Prunella laciniata),Plum (Prunus avium & Prunus lauraceasus), Adder-spit (Pteridum aquiliunum), Pterocarya (Pterocaryafraxinifolia), Pear (Py- rus malva), Oak (Quercus castaneifolia), Buttercup (Ranunculus sp.), Currant (Ribes uva-crsipa), Bramble (Rubus hyrcaenus), Willow (Salix sp.), Elder (Sam- bucus ebulus), European sanicule (Sanicula europaea), Sage( Salvia glutinosa), Stone crop (Sedum rubens) Ragwort (Senecio sp.) Green brier(Smilax excelsa), Mountain Ash (Sorbus torminalis), Woundwort (Stachys sp.), Black bind weed (Tamus communis), Yew (Taxus baccata), Linden trees (Tilia rubra,& Tilia platy- phyllus), Clover (Trifolium sp.), Clots foot (Tussilagofarfara), Elm(Ulmus glabra), Nettle (Urtica dioca), Mistletoe (Viscum album), Violet( Viola sp.).

Fieldwork was carried out in November, which does not do the plant diversity any justice. The soil and microclimate is varied and the forest natural to semi-natural and the complete list of plants growing in the forest is probably between 500 and 1000 species. I

4-60 * 9/16/2004 Vegetation types above the high forest include the following plant communities:

3 Hombeam (Carpinusbetulus, & Carpinusschuschaensis) and pear (Pyrus) Pear (Pyrus), Berberry (Berberis), Rose (Rosa), Plum (Prunus) Juniper (Juniperus), Locoweed (Astragalus) and Prickly thrift (Acantholimon) Prickly thrift (Acantholimon), Locoweed (Astragalus), Woundwort (Stachys), Sainfoin (Ono- brychis) and Acanthophyllum.

The forests of the upper lands are diverse natural forests and can be divided in the following types: I (Please see Map I-60-BO-10 in Annex A) a) Beech forest (Fagus orientalis): In hyrcanian area, the beech forest is found at altitudes between approximately 800m and up to 1800 m. The unmixed communities of beech can be seen in a limited * area of Kar-sang valley. In many areas a well developed understory can be found, this comprises of e.g., Ilex and Plum (Prunus laurocerasus).Degraded beech forest is invaded by mixed forest species such as alder (Alnus subcordata), hornbeam (Carpinus) and others. I In the valleys with calcareous and shallow soils, one can see the rare Yew (Taxus baccata) among the beeches. In most places beech trees grow too scattered to be exploited commercially. I b) Hombeam forest (Carpinusorientalis): The hombeam (Carpinus) is a pioneer plant conquering areas where dominant species of the mixed vegetations have disappeared. The overexploitation of maple (Acer), alder (Alnus) and lime (Tilia) result in hombeam replacement. If hornbeam (Carpinus) woodland is not exploited, they will gradually change to the mixed vegetation. In the area, it is impossible to exploit this species economically.

c) Black alder forest (Alnus subcordata): Alder is, like hombeam (Carpinus), a pioneer species and appears when the associated species in the mixed forests are cut. In fact, given the characteristic of hydro-morphology and soil in the area where associate species have disappeared, alder is very im- I portant in preserving woodland. So in order to restore the natural mixed vegetation in the middle lands or upper-middle lands, experience shows that black alder is the best pioneer species. Alder association "Alnusecetum" is one of the plant communities that have great variations in the area. It include species such as hombeam (Carpinus), alder (Alnus), oak (Quercus), Siberianehm (Ulmus), Iron wood (Parrotia).

* d) Mixed forest (Carpinus &Alnus): These are a combination of maple (Acer), black alder (Alnus), hombeam (Carpinus), and beech (Fagus). Depending on age since disturbance the dominant species varies. This type of forest is often disturbed. Some part of these the mixed forest is natural and in other it is the result of cutting of beech trees (Fagus orientalis)

e) Degraded forests (Alnus glutinosa & Mixed forest ) : The upper lands still have a good forest cover, though the forest has been seriously degraded especially around the dam site and near the roads. In other places the forest is disturbed by grazing livestock. In order to allow light to reach the forest

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floor (whereby grass and herbs can grow) the shepherds often prune the trees. In some places (on steeper slopes) the grazing can cause erosion problems.

Fauna in the upperlands: In the forests of the upper lands a wide variety of wildlife thrives. Larger mammals include: Bear (Ur- sus arctos), wild boar (Sus scrofa), red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), wolf (Canis lupus), Marten (Martesfiona), jackal (Canis aureus) (only at lower altitudes) and lynx (Lynx lynx) (very rare). One bear appeared in Babol and was killed by the police. Occasionally leopards can be encountered. One trapped in the region was released in the forest. At the highest altitudes wild goats roam. They are not particular common and licenses are issued to kill only 20 per year in all of Mazan- daran Province.

The most common of the larger mammals seems to be wild boar. Wolf is reportedly more common than the fox and the deers are quite uncommon.

Of smaller mammals squirrels and especially rabbits are common. No data could be obtained for bats and smaller rodents.

Birdlife is prolific in the upper lands. One species regarded an endangered species was seen during a site visit: White-tailed sea eagle. The so-called common pheasant, which due to hunting is considered unusual in Iran, was observed at several occasions. The Eurasian Woodcock is a sought after game bird occurring in the forests.

During a one-day visit in autumn of 2003 the following bird species were observed: Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo), Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), Hooded Crow (Corvus corone), Robin (Erithacus rubecula), Jay (Garrulusglandarius), Blackbird (Turdus merula), Green Woodpecker (Picus viridis), House Sparrow (Passer domesticus), Coal Tit (Parusater), Blue Tit (Parus caeruleus), Spotted Wood- pecker (Dendrocopus)., Hawfinch (Coccothraustescoccothraustes), Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), House-wren (Throglodites throglodites), Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), Rock Bunting (Embriza cia) and Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalus caudatus) . Bird counts in spring time would undoubtedly lead to long lists of breeding birds. Other species known to occur in the area include Greater spotted eagle (Aqula clanga), Cuckooo (Cuculus canorus) , Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) , and Woodcock (Scolopax rusti- cola).

Other wildlife: An inventory of the wildlife in the forests has not been carried out, but the forests are very rich and harbor an amazing range of species of insects, amphibians, reptiles etc. Among the fishes the endemic Red-dotted Trout must be mentioned. This species seems to be threatened by human activities. Local information indicates that this species is only present in very limited numbers in the brooks of Azar and, probably, Eskelim. However, the release of rainbow trout from fish farms into the rivers and the intra-species competition will have a negative impact on the survival of the endemic red dotted trout.

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I Middle Lands

I Figure 4.25 Middle Lands

I .. '

I .

| 'M

The middle lands are a combination of the upper lands and the lower lands. Extensive agriculture is I found in the river valleys. On the steeper slopes forest grows. In most places the forests are replanted and a lot more coniferous trees can be found here than in the upper lands. Especially in the steepest places tracts of pristine forest can still be found. Agriculture is mostly paddy but grazing livestock is also common. I I

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Typical plant species at the middle lands (both forest and disturbed habitat)

I Maple (Acer insigne), Alder (Alnus sp.), Silk tree (Albizziajulibrissin), Worm wood (Artemisia sp.), Dwale (Atropa bella-donna), Box tree (Buxux hyrcana), Bear bind (Calystegia sp), Shepherd purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris), Sedge (Carex sp.), Hombeam (Carpinus betulus), Button (Conyza canadensis), Haw- thorn (Crataegus monocarpa & Crataegus monogyna), Cyperus (Cupressus sp)., Safron (Crocus sp.), Cyclamen (Cyclamen coum ssp. Caucasicum), Laurel (Daphne mezeorum), Datura (Datura stramonium,) (Diospyros lotus)Willow weed, (Epilobium sp).,Fig(Ficuscarica), Straw berry(Fragariasylves- tris),Avents( Geum urbanum),Caspian honey locust( Gleditsia caspica), Cow pars nip(Hercaleumpersicum),Johns worts(Hypericum androsaemum),Holly (Ilex aquifolium )Walnut (Juglans regia), Nipple,(Lapsana communis), Wood rush(Luzulaforsteri),Medic (Medicago sp)., Minth (Mentha sp.)Mercury (Mercurialisperennis), Mulberry (Morus alba), (Oplisnemus undulatifolius), Wood sorrel (Oxalis corniculatus.) Pennisetum (Pannisetum sp). Harts tongue 3 (Phyllitis scolopendrium), Fox-glove (Phytolacca americana), Plantain(Plan- tago sp)., Knote weed(Polygonum sp)., Male fem(Polypodium vulgare), Iron tree( Parotiapersica)Cinquefoil ,( Potentilla caspica),Primrose( Primula I acaulis&, Primula elatior), Self heal (Prunella laciniata)Plum( Prunus avium), Adder-spit(Pteridum aquiliunum), Pterocarya(Pterocaryafraxinifo- lia)Pear (, Pyrus malva), Oak(Quercus castaneifolia)Castorbean (Ricinus I communis) Currant(, Ribes uva-crsipa),Sorrel(Rumexsp).Bramble(, Rubus hyrcaenus),Willoow(Salix) .,Elder (Sambucus ebulus) European sanicule(, Sanicula europaea).,Sage( Salvia glutinosa), Green brier ( Smilax excelsa), I Mountain ash (Sorbus torminalis), Wound wort (Stachys sp) .Black bind weed (Tamus communis), Tansy (Tannacetum parthenium), Linden tree (Tilia rubra &, Tillia platyphyllos), Clots foot ( Tussilagofarfara), Elm( Ulmus glabra), Nettle (Urtica dioca), Violet ( Viola sp.),

Fauna in the middlelands

Mammals: Jackals (Canis aureus) are commonly encountered at the middle lands even during daytime. Porcupines are also found in the middle lands but rarely venture up in the upper lands, where it is too I cold. Wild boars (Sus scrofa) are also common, and most of the mammals mentioned in the upper lands do also occur in the middle lands but at lower densities. I Birds: During the field work, which was carried out in autumn, the below mentioned bird species were observed. Again it must be emphasise that more extensive field work carried out during spring time unavoidably would have led to a much more longer list, perhaps including a few unusual species. Jay (Garrulus glandarius), Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalus caudatus), Black Kite (Milvus migrans), Robin

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I (Erithacus rubecula), Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), White Wagtail (Motacilla alba), Great Tit (Pa- rus major), Cormorant (Phalacrocoraxcarbo), Chaffinch (Fringillacoelebs), Crow (Corvus corone), Rook (Corvus frugilegus) and House sparrow (Passerdomesticus).

Lower Lands

The lower lands consist of entirely cultivated plains with settlements and artificial lakes the so called ab-bandans, which are used for irrigation and fish farming. Orchards with citrus are intermixed in extensive paddy fields. Along road sides and under the orchard trees some weeds grow but no tracts of natural vegetation could be found. In a few places bushes and small native trees grow and a few inac- tive fields were also encountered. Perhaps these fields were not cultivated because they were too wet.

I Figure 4.26 Scenery from the lower lands with Mount Damavand in the background. l

I The lower lands between the coast to the middle-land originally included the following natural vegetation: dunes, pomegranate woodlands with pomegranate (Punica granatum), medlar (Mespilus germanicus), (Gleditsia caspica), and black alder stands. Due to cultivation this type of forest is not found in the project area and can only be seen in two parts of the Iranian coast line (Miankaleh and Lavandevil). The black alder stands have been destroyed due to intensive changes in land use, and only a few small J stands can be found.

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Today the natural vegetation types in areas not cultivated include: Alnus glutinosa, Gleditsia caspica. l Phragmites, Schoenoplectus, Typha, Schoenoplectus, Cyperus longus, Sparganium and Polygonum

Typical plant species in the lower lands (both forest and disturbed habitat), the most abundant species are shown in bold.

Acasia auriculiformis, Alnus glutinosa., Albizzia julibrissin, Allisma plantago- aquatica, Artemisia sp., Arundo donnax, Atropa belladonna, Azolla filiculoides, Ballota sp., Calystegia sp., Capsella bursa pastoris, Carex sp., Chenopdium sp., Conyza canadensis, Datura stramonium, Digitaria sp., Epilobium sp., Ficus carica, Geum urbanum,humulus lupulus, Juglans regia, Juncus sp., Lapsana 3 communis, Lythrum salicaria, Medicago sativum, Mentha sp. Morus alba, Oxalis sp., Pannisetum sp. Populus ps., Phragmites australis, Phyllitis scolopendrium, 3 Phytolaccadecandra, Plantago sp., Polygonum sp., Potamogeton Sp., Prunus avium, Pterocarya fraxinifolia, Quercus castaneifolia, Ricinus communis, Ru- mex sp., Rumex hydrolapathum, Rubus hyrcaenus, Salix sps., Salvinia natans, * Sambucus ebulus, Smilax excelsa, Sonchus sp., Sparganium sp., Tamarixpentan- dra, Urtica dioca.

Mammals: The otherwise common Wild Boar becomes rare in the lower lands. Wolves can be seen in the lower lands but especiallyjackals are common. The porcupine is most numerous at the lowest elevations. It is however the birdlife (described below) which catches attention in the lowland where a long list of wetland species occur.

I Birdlife: is very prolific in the ab-bandans, where a long list of, especially migrating, species occur. Of special interest is the extremely rare West-Siberian population of the critically endangered Siberian Crane, which winters in the area especially in wetlands just west of the project area where all four birds spend their winters. Some of the best ab-bandans near Feridonkaner (a few kms west of Babol Sar) are managed by DoE in Mazandaran and here tens of thousands of ducks can be seen. In one area of wetland covering 60 hectares 30.000 ducks spend the winter. The DoE have forbidden hunting in these areas and feed the birds, but trapping of the birds can be observed just outside the small reserves.

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I Figure 4.27 High concentrations of waterbirds in protected wetlandsjust out side the project area.

I~~~I

I 9

Within the project area nine of the largest ab-bandans arevalued as good wintering areas for birds by the DoE. These ab-bandans are called: Langur, Azisak, Larim-Kola, Anarmaz, Esmacell-Kola, Aghaz- Rooshandan,.bes, Ramnat and Zarin.

Two of these were visited during the field work of November 2003. One had been emptied of water to harvest the farmed fish on the lake. The other had a better diversity of water birds. Below a list of the species observed during a brief visit in November of 2003 can be seen. I I

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I| Bird Species Observed in November, 2003

3 Anarmaz Ab-bandan

Starling (30), Little Gull (1000+), House Sparrow (50), Mallard Duck (25), I Grasshopper Warbler (3), Shelduck (2), White Wagtail (10), Buzzard (1), Chaffinch (5), Crow (20), Green Sandpiper (5), Marsh Harrier (3), I Meadow pipit (20), Water Rail (1), Common Snipe (90), Shikra (1), Cetti Warbler (1), Kingfisher (2), Black-necked Grebe (10), Crested Grebe (3), 3 Coot (150), Gadwall (5), Widgeon (15), Pochard (6), Teal (75), Red- headed Duck (2), Grey Heron (5), Dabchick (11), Magpie (6), Caspian l Tern (1).

Larim Ab-bandan

1WhiteWagtail (20), Mediterranean Gull (1), Black Kite (3), Purple Heron (1), Magpie (15), Chaffinch (20), Starling (50), Tree Sparrow (10), House 1 Sparrow (40), Tree Pipit (2), Kingfisher (1), Montague's Harrier(1), Wood Sandpiper (20), Crow (5), Little Gull (6), Meadow Pipit (120), Green I Sandpiper (2), Citrine Wagtail (1), Avocet (2), Pintail (1), Great White Egret (45), Lapwing (200), Blackbird (2), Robin (3), Hoopoe Lark (1).

| Most of these are common to fairly common birds. But they can be seen in relatively good numbers. The quantity depends very much on the water quality. The cleaner the water is in the ab-bandans, the more water plants and water birds can be seen. In many of the most intensively run fish pond the water quality is too poor to support a significant birdlife.

The hoopoe lark is not a common bird in this area. It was observed in the sand dunes at the coast. The occurrence is usually not mentioned in the literature (at least not in the field guide).

Birds observed in Feridonkaner Ab-bandan that are not included in the lists from the project area itself include: Greylag goose, Bean Goose, Marbled Teal, Whooper Swan, Black-tailed Godwit, Bearded Tit, Rail sp., and Cotton Teal. The Siberian Cranes were in the area according to the wardens, but were not seen.

In the ab-bandans inside the project area the following birds have been observed: 5 species of grebes, 2 species of cormorants, 4 species of egrets, 2 species of geese, 2 species of swan, 3 species of mergan-

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| sers, coot, lapwing, 2 species of plovers, Black-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, 2 species of sandpipers, 6 species of gulls, 4 species of terns, kingfisher, pipit, 3 species of warblers and marsh harrier. 3 Other wildlife: At least 3 species of frogs (presumably 2 species of Rana and one of Pelobatesgen- era), Caucasian Pond Turtle, brown rats are and Crayfish were seen in the ab-bandans. Further studies would reveal a wider variety of animals.

Figure 4.28 Pond turtle - a common resident in the cleaner ab-bandans I I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1 F~~~~~~~~~~~~~04

I~ , .

I . '.-I *

Fish: The Babol River has a high level of fish diversity: 15 species and 15 genus and 5 family appear in the river. Sturgeon species have not been reported for the last 20 years. The lower part of the Babol River is highly polluted and continuous changes to the bed causes the absence of these species. 3 In the upper lands, Brown trout (Salmo truta) is the dominant species. Map 1-60-BO-0 I shows the distribution of species. Rainbow trout is cultivated cages in Babolrood upstream and escaped fishes com- pete with the rare brown trout. In Annex A, Map 1-60-BO-05 shows the distribution of both species. There are eleven species of other fishes including European chub (Leuciscus cephuls), Common carp (Cryprinus carpio), Caspian barbell (Barbus brachycephalus), Common bream (Abramis brama), Roach (Rutilus rutilus), Barbus barbulus, Kurabarb (Capoeta capoeta), Goldfish (Carassiuscaras- sius), Bleak (Chalcalburnuschalcoides), Caspian vimba (Vimba vimba), Mosquitofish (Gambusia hol- brooki,), Pike (Esox lucius), Caspian lamprey (Caspiomyzon vagneri), distributed in the Grayling zone and Bleak (Alburnus alburnus) only appear in the mouth of the Babolrood.

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Fish in the Caspian Sea: There are over 120 fish species in the southern part of the Caspian Sea, which are commercially divided in two groups: sturgeons and bony fishes. The bony fishes are also subdivided into kilka and other species. The most valuable commercial species are the: Sturgeons: Beluga (Huso huso), Russian sturgeon (Acipenser guldenstadti), Iranian sturgeon (A. persicus) and Sevruga (A. stellatus). Iranian Caviar, being a famous and exclusive product worldwide, is produced by these species.

4.2.2 Protected areas natural habitats and areas of high biodiversity

Lafur Hunting Protected Area: Area: 10000 ha, Position: 36007' to 36018' northern latitude and 52037' to 52056' eastern longitude Ac- cess road (s): Shirgah from north eastern, Babol road to Gharan-kola, Javarom road to Boorkhani. The has a good numbers of Pheasant ("Phasianusclochicus") occur in the low-land area, and habitats of Red deer (Cervus elaphus) and Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), are found in the middle-land area. The Roe dear may already have disappeared from the area and Red deer are very rare.

Figure 4.29 Area of high biodiversity

7.,

s ~~~~Among the vulnerable animals potentially found in this area, only pheasants may be noticed regularly. | ~~~~The present ecosystem is not suitable for the preservation of buck, wild goat and trout in the area. I,,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

s ~~~~Other vulnerable animal species potentially present include: I~~~~~~~i~~~~ . 4-.~~~47 | I~~~Wild goat (Capra aegagrus) Mouflon (OvisAmog orientalis)hevuneabe nial ptetill fun i tisara nl peaans9aybenoicd2eglaly s ~~~Pheasant (Phasianuscolchicus) | ~~~Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) l l

The flora includes sensitive and rare species such as: Yew (Taxus baccata) I Iron wood (Parrotiapersica) Maple(Aer velutinum) Maple (Acer insigne) I Lime (Tilia begonifolia) Lime( Tilia rubra) Holley(llex aquifolium)

The natural vegetation has been seriously degraded.

Figure 4.30 Taxus baccata in Azar River Upstream I / '- I '7 / I ,

| Figure 4.31 Buxus hyrcana in the Middle lands 77~~~'

| ~w1

Abshar - Shirgah hunting protected area Abshar - Shirgah protected area is an existing protected area which lies to the east of the project area with just a corner stretching into the project area not far from the dam. It is found between 36005' and 36006' northem latitude and 52°50' and 52058' eastern longitude. The paved road to the Alborz Dam passes the reserve when coming to Shirgah from north east Gharan-Kola, Javarom Road to Boorkhani.. The reserve was created in 1999 by DoE to protect pheasant, leopard, brown bear, wild boar, and the two species of deer. The flora includes rare species such as Yew (Taxus bacata) as well as English Holly (Ilex aquifolia), Maple (Acer sp.) and Iron Wood (Parotiapersica). I 4-71 I 9/16/2004 l

| Proposed Hunting Protected area west of Lafur (Zone 1) An extension area in the forest where hunting is forbidden has been proposed. Originally this was supposed to be directly contiguous to the Lafoor zone near the dam described below; However DOE now is of the opinion that more valuable biodiversity could be protected by assigning a protected area west of Lafoor, called Zone 1, which holds a greater variety of wildlife (marked in black below, covering parts of middle and upper lands). Please see Map 1-60-GL-01 in Annex A.

Given the degraded state of the forest around the reservoir (Lafur Hunting Protected Area) MDOE pre- fers to establish a hunting protected area west of Lafur. This area is marked as Zone I on the map. I (36007' to 36°12' northern latitude, 52049' to 52055' eastern longitude). This reserve will cover all the same species at the Lafur Hunting Protected Area, but the forest is much more intact and the overall diversity is higher.

Areas of high biodiversity Further areas of high biodiversity have been mapped in connection to this study. These do not enjoy any legal protection, but are noted here so that the natural history interests in the hopes that they can be incorporated in the forest management plans to be developed during the first phase of the project.

Figure 4.32 High Biodiversity Area 1, 2 and 3

I ~

l -

1- Area I Important Flora: I Beech (Fagus orientalis) Yew (Taxus baccata) Plum (Prunus laurocerasus)

Important Fauna: Leopard (Pantherapardus )(occasionally) I Stone marten (Martesfoina) (permanent) Jackal (Canis aureus) (seasonal)

1 2- Area 2: Important Flora: Juniper (Juniperus Sabina) Juniper (Juniperus communis)

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| Locoweed (Astragalus glaucachantha)

Important Fauna: Stone marten (Martesfoina) Jackal (Canis aureus)

3-Area 3: Beech forest and mixed forest near upper lands Important flora: Beech (Fagus orientalis) Maple (Acer insigne) Maple (Acer velutinum) * Yew (Taxus baccata) Juniper (Juniperus communis)

Important Fauna: Bear (Ursus arctos) Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Eurasian badger (Meles meles) Lesser spotted eagle (Aquila pomaria) | Spotted eagle (Aquila calnga) Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) Blackbird (Turdus merula)

4- Area 4 Critical ab-bandans for preservation of birds have been identified by DOE and include the following ab-bandans: Eastern Ramnat, Roshandan, Azizak, Anarmarz, Larim, Langoor, Zarin-kola, Esmaeel- kola, and Aghozben. A management program for biodiversity is recommended by DOE, and specific * arrangements need to be developed as the ab-bandans are privately or community owned. Important Flora: Nymphaea alba I Utriculariastellaris Important Fauna: Whooper swan (Cygnus Cygnus) * White-winged Black Tern (Chlidonias leucopterus) Black Tern (Chlidonias hybrida) Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruguginosus)

4.2.3 Threatened species and their habitat requirements

* Plant species International conventions: According to the last list of IUCN none of the species in the area is considered threatened. However, Cyclamen coum falls in the annex II of CITES as a species with cross bor-

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der regulation (to control trade). This plant is common throughout the forested parts of the project area, and extends from Armenia to Golestan National park in west of Mazandaran province.

National regulation: According to the national regulation, Buxus hyrcana, Taxus baccata, Juniperus sabina, and Juniperus communis are considered as vulnerable species and fall in the list of forest species that are protected.

Animal species International conventions: According to the last list of IUCN, none of the species in the area is threatened. However, the wolf Canis lupus, the Brown Bear Ursus arctos, and the Leopard Panthera pardus are listed by CITES at appendix 1 the most threatened species. Of the birds, only the Lesser Spotted Eagle Aquila pomarina falls in the annex 1 of CITES.

The sturgeon is critically endangered. In the 1980s, it was predicted that it would become extinct within a few decades. However, massive release of fry and fingerlings (newly hatched or small) sturgeon have halted the rapid decline. The eggs (caviar) used for the release comes from female sturgeon caught in the wild but kept in captivity for some time until the eggs can be harvested. Raising sturgeon to maturity in captivity is complicated and so far not possible on a commercial basis. The conservation of the habitat of sturgeons is therefore vital. The Sturgeon is covered by CITES (convention on international trade in endangered species) appendix II, meaning all international trade is strictly controlled by both importing and exporting countries. Given the continuing critical situation, CITES has recommended highly reduced international trade until producer countries can show that any proposed trade will not threaten the species in the wild.

Sturgeon comprise of a number of species. The species living in Iran are: Huso huso, Acipenser gueldenstaedtii, Acipenser nudiventris, Acipenserpersicus and Acipenser stelllatus all are red-listed by IUCN as endangered.

National regulation: According to the national regulation, and based on1 DOE, the following species are considered vulnerable: Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), Red deer (Cervus elaphus), Lesser Spotted Eagle (Aquila pomarina), Pheasant (Phasianuscolchicus), Mute swan (Cygnus olor), Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus), Whooper swan (Cygnus Cygnus), Black Tern (Chlidonias sp.), Common Tern (Sterna sp.).

Ecological requirements offlora Cyclamen (Cyclamen coum ssp. caucasicum): This species is plentiful throughout Hyrcanian area. It grows with violet species under shrubs. The corm of this species is one of the favourite foods of Wild Boar (Sus scrofa). This species has become less common due to destruction of the forest in the middle lands and their replacement by agriculture and citrus orchards. This phenomenon can also be seen throughout the coastal areas.

4-74 3 9/16/2004 | Figure 4.33_Cyclamen (Cyclamen coum ssp. caucasicum) is common in the forests I I kb * A-

I l Yew (Taxus baccata) Yew grows both in dense woodland of beech and in deep valleys with shallow I soil. The species has already declined due to its use in wood works. In the forested area it is mostly seen as single trees. In 1996 plots for protection of the Yew were selected upstream of a branch of Azar River. In these plots the yew has recovered considerably, giving hope of that proper management can I help the species. Cutting and exploitation of this tree is prohibited. In the past, throughout Gilan and Mazandaran, the wood of this tree was used in making doors and windows. But at present its habitat is severely endangered due to intensive forest degradation resulting from decreased tree density in the I upper parts. l Boxwood (Buxus hyrcanus): Boxwood is found in semi-open areas and dislikes shade. It can be found from the middlelands to the higher parts of the upperlands. It is usually associated with trees such as hornbeam, alder and others. As this plant reproduces in semi-open areas, the presence of young and I middle age rootstocks indicates that the trees in the upper canopy have been cut in recent years. When the natural habitat is destroyed the root stock can not survive. Between 1995-1998, Boxwood habitat in the project area has been reduced by 50%. The species is in need of a proper management of the wood- 3 land. Itisclassified by IUCN standards as Vulnerable in Iran. Juniper (Juniperus sp): This genus is found in a large area that extends in a ridge line over 2000m high 3 above the beech forest. Both Juniperus sabina and J. communis are found in the area and typically associated with other species such as Ilex and Carpinus. However, Juniperussabina is considered the typical plant of the plant community. Junipers are also affected negatively by agricultural practices. 3 The nomadic farmers graze in the area during the growing season, where the Junipers are susceptible.

4-75 I 9/16/2004 Studies in the upper ridges indicates that this plant can reproduce properly only if the rangelands are not grazed.

Ecological requirements offauna Leopard (Pantherapardus) [threatened]: As the people living in the forested areas have moved to the highlands and now also live on steeper slopes and in dense forest, the leopard has accordingly de- 3 creased significantly. In other parts of the world the leopard is very opportunistic and is primarily threatened by human per- secution. It could be speculated that its preference for the highlands and higher parts of forest in the area is due to human prosecution. How many larger animals that are eaten by the leopard is not known, but the diet of the Leopard includes wild boar. Map number I-60-BO-02 shows potential habitat of the Leopard (or areas where it has recently been observed). Leopards can, however, wander far.

A Leopard was trapped in the area and released in the forest. Another was killed in the lower lands as it attacked people. A public awareness campaign has been established, among others, with close cooperation with the channel NGO 1, which sends one hour television broadcast every Monday. Some of the workers around the mines, local livestock raisers, and the residents of the forest carry fire arms, | which could pose a threat to this species.

Wolf (Canis lupus) [threatened]: The wolf lives in the highlands and upper lands. It is found throughout upper and middle lands. During the summer, this animal feeds in the Mishine-marg Mountains. In wintertime, they follow sheep herds and stay in the upper forest zone. The wolf is relatively common in the area, but is persecuted. People use poisoned bait and rifles. Ac- cording to local reports, the number of wolves has reduced significantly. Since this animal plays an important role in the environment, a number of wolves have been released in some parts of the country.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos): The brown bear eats a large variety of food this together with peoples' fear has helped this animal to survive in the area especially in the upper parts of the forested section. There is no complete information about the actual number of this species. In winter time it needs an undis- turbed place for hibernation, usually in dense forest. In Northern Iran in general its numbers have decreased significantly in recent years.

Lesser Spotted eagle (Aquila pomarina) [threatened]: The Lesser Spotted Eagle is found in the beech woodlands and open mixed forest. It falls in the list of protected species and its survival depends on restoring and preserving these forests. I Sturgeon (Acipenser sp) [endangered]: The Sturgeon used to enter the Babolrood to spawn, the water quality of the river is from time to time as poor as untreated sewage. Hence it is uncertain whether the species still occur in the project area. One individual was observed in 2001. Further obstacles are found I in the river such as a rubber weir near the mouth which creates a temporary barrier and a newly constructed weir further upstream constitutes a permanent barrier. The species is in need of free passage, sufficient water flow in the river and improved water quality. It migrates to the river in early spring, I some say that it also goes up the river in late summer, this might be because more than one species occur in the area. The fisheries department (MDOFA) regularly releases sturgeon fry in the lower reaches of the Babol River.

4-76 9/16/2004 Deer (Cervus elphas and Capreoluscapreolus) [vulnerable]: Recent field studies indicate that deers have disappeared from the area since 1995. The Shirgah hunting protected area was established for the protection of this species. In other parts of their natural distribution both species can live in a variety of I forest, woodland and even rather open woodland. The prime suspects of their reduced numbers in the project area therefore must be hunting.

Pheasant (Phasianus clochicus) [vulnerable]: The Caspian pheasant is indigenous to Iran and has not been mixed with introduced sub-species living in the neighbouring countries. Although the upper canopy of the forests in the coastal areas have been destroyed, the shrubberies formed by Dwarf Elder Sambucus ebulus and the fern Pteridium aquilinum have created a habitat that suits the species How- ever it avoids open areas and therefore sometimes is hindered at spreading from one area to the other, as it is a poor flyer.

* Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruguginosus) [vulnerable]: The Marsh Herrier is found near larger lakes and rivers with reed beds. The bird can be found in Eastern-Ramnat, Roshandan, Azizak, Anarmarz, Larim, Langoor, Zarin-kola, and Esmaeel-kola. In these ab-bandans, one can find a great amount of Schoeno- plectus, Phragimtes,Sparganium, and other aquatic plants. The Marsh Harrier is thriving in the ab- bandans with the mentioned characteristics, these can be found on the base map.

* Whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) [vulnerable]: In recent years, this species has been seen in "Anarmarz" marsh land. Which includes small islands that provide a secure and quiet place for swans, further the ab banadan provides shelter due to its large size. Swans (including Mute Swans) migrate to Iran in winter but in decreasing numbers.

Black terns (Chlidonias leucopterus; Chlidonias hybrida) [vulnerable]: The Black Tern and the White- winged Balck Tern breed in the Larim and Zarin-kola ab-bandans (two of the nine ab-bandans considered to have the highest biodiversity). According to the national regulation, both of them are under DOE protection. Since hatching happens exclusively in this lagoon, it is considered highly important. I The reproduction of these species during 1999 up to now has attracted DOE attention. A precise program to manage the biodiversity in these ab-bandans is recommended to provide quantitative and qualitative data on these wetland areas. Specific arrangements need to be developed as the ab-bandans are privately or community owned.

4.2.4 Existing activities affecting the fauna and flora Forrest dwellers Only a few families live in the upper lands, some in villages and some in solitary huts. The traditional patterns of grazing and cutting and pruning of trees to allow more pasture is destructive to the forest. It creates erosion in some places and degradation of the natural habitat. Shorter return time in connection with slash and burn cultivation can also be observed leading to increased pressure on the forest resources.

Grazing animals eat the young trees, thereby hindering the natural regeneration of the forest. Summer grazing is practiced especially at the higher altitudes of the forest, this implies moving of the cattle * from the lower areas to the higher in spring and vice versa. This practise put extra pressure on the woody plant species at higher elevation, where growth rates are low, and serious degradation can be observed here. (meaning that the treeline is lower than it would have been if no summer grazing had occurred).

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Since there has not been any special protection program or action to conserve the threatened species of the rangelands and brush lands, degradation is taking place, to smaller or larger extent, in the whole area.

Due to the practice of pruning of trees, threatened species like box wood may disappear, as it only thrives in shady conditions.

Other activities Other impacts on the foothills of Mishine-marg Mountain, within the Pashakola and Talar Watersheds (Sheshrood-Bar), includes activities such as logging, traffic, extensive fencing, movement of machinery and activities in connection to the mines. Different tracks and roads have been built in the forest areas.

At present, the majority of the streams and waters for the endemic Red-Dotted Trout have been destroyed by various human interventions. These include forest cuttings that intensifies erosion and increases the turbidity of the river water, the influx of petroleum products and other pollutants from the mining activities of Kar-sang Coal mine, and the expansion of Rainbow trout (Onkorkynchus mykiss) fish farms, all of which are considered to be the factors causing decline in the ecological capacity of the habitats. The situation has led to problems in movement and presence of these fish.

Hunting takes place, but it is uncertain to what extent it has an impact on wildlife.

Forestry The major part of the forests in AILWMP watershed are included in the forest exploitation program. Up till 2002, more than 160 km of earth roads had been constructed in these forests. Most of the forested areas of the region are used for timber production. In additions, other forest roads have been established for the development activities of coal mines. Due to lack of a proper reforestation program, the mixed forest vegetation is converted to single species forest.

In disturbed areas in the middle lands the decreasing soil quality has lead to hydro-morphism of the calcareous forest soils. This means that the soil is to wet to allow planting of other forest trees than for example Black alder (Alnus subcordata). It is to be noted that planting of mixed forests is more expensive and requires more complicated management. Therefore, the institutions responsible do not usually plant mixed forests. Indeed, they do not even have the technical knowledge required for this.

Forrest planting with non-indigenous species is also common. Especially in the middle lands large stands of different coniferous trees are found. These activities produce noise and change the soil conditions as well as the vegetation cover.

Extensive fencing is carried out in order to protect forest from livestock. This has changed the exploitation of lands in both areas. In the forest areas, where livestock can no longer enter, the wildlife can no longer spread naturally, especially larger mammals are at risk, when they not able to find each other or sufficient prey. At the same time the areas with livestock will degrade more quickly.

4-78 9/16/2004 l I 1 Activities in the lower lands The lower lands, once black alder forests, wetlands and dunes have been completely transformed into agriculture. One of the most income generating crops in the area is rice, hence land is being transformed into paddy fields. Due to government subsidizing agro-chemicals there are serious problems with fertilizers and pesticides affecting the soil and aquatic environment.

Extensive areas in the plains which were once under rice production are being converted to citrus orchards. The factors that encourage this conversion are untimely water delivery for rice, inadequacy of the irrigation water conveyance system, the very high costs of planting, husbandry, and harvesting rice, and the higher income from citrus at present. The shallow depth of groundwater in these areas makes the construction of a drainage system necessary for establishing citrus.

Fish cultivation is very popular. At the moment a significant number of the ab-bandans are used for fish cultivation and the fishery division wants fish cultivation to take place in all ab-bandans. The number of fish in the ab-bandans is regulated through permits from the fishery division, but this is widely ignored and the actual number of fish exceeds the permitted ab-bandans significantly. The fish cultivation leads to eutrophication of the ab-bandans, with dark murky water unsuitable for plants, birds and other aquatic wildlife.

While some of these ab-bandans have important role in the biodiversity of birds and aquatic organisms, arguments and disputes over the ownership of sensitive ab-bandans, such as Larim, has become a threat to their proper management.

The intake of water for agricultural practices and the outlet of wastewater mean that the Babolrood dries out every summer or has a limited flow of water of a quality like concentrated sewage.

A number of small dams and cascades today make fish migration (among others for the sturgeon) impossible. Near the mouth of the Babolrood there is an inflatable dam, which is usually inflated in summer.

Outside the project area wetlands for water birds have been created. These have a good vegetation of aquatic plants, but the water birds are fed. Feeding of water birds has the same impact on water quality as fertilizers. Depending on the amount of food provided for the birds, there is a risk of serious deterioration of the water quality.

It is expected that different water schemes are going to improve water quality in the rivers a foreseeable future. Sewage treatments plants are being constructed in the larger cities and better control of industrial waste is also expected to occur. I The recent expansion of the road system and the construction of inter-basin roads (Haraz-Talar) has led to a reduction in habitat security as well as uncontrolled hunting in the lower lands.

Waste disposal is taking place in most of the ab-bandans, and some are used directly as dump sites.

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4.3 Supplementary Socio-economic Baseline A comprehensive Social Assessment (SA) for the AILWMP is being finalized for the GOI by a team of consultants from Mazandaran University during the preparation of the ESA. The social, socio- economic, and cultural baseline conditions are only briefly addressed in the current report from the draft Social Assessment. However, a thorough description of the socio-economic situation in the project area was presented in the EIA for the Alborz Dam and the Irrigation and Drainage Network (Ma- hab Ghodss 2002).

In addition, three resettlement documents have been prepared for the AILWMP: i) Resettlement Plan for the Dam Site; ii) Resettlement Policy Framework for the upper lands; and iii) Resettlement Policy Framework for lower areas affected by the Irrigation and Drainage Network. These three documents contain important supplementary information on the socio-economic and cultural situation in the project area. The three resettlement papers are annexed to this report as Annex E.

The information presented below is therefore only a short analysis based on available statistics and the outcome of a fast socio-economic survey carried out with special attention to the people that will 3 be affected by the AILWMPl.

3 4.3.1 Population The total population in Mazandaran more than 3 million, and of these just below 1 million live in the project area. According to the latest administrative boundaries, the project area compasses all or parts of Babol, Babolsar, Joybar, and Ghaemshahr and Savadkooh municipalities. In the upper watershed there is an estimate of 933 herdsmen families and another 267 families currently living in scattered settlements inside the forest. There are 871 households in the middle lands and 46,520 households in 3 the lower lands. The largest towns are: Babol (185,000 pop.), Ghaemshahr (160,000 pop.), Babolsar (45,000 pop.), 3 Joybar (27,000 pop.), Amirkola (22,000 pop.), Shirgah (10,000 pop.), Bahnamir (6000 pop.), and Ki- akola (5000 pop.). l Table 4-25 below shows the rural and urban population in the main municipalities in 1375 (1997):

Table 4-26 Rural, Urban and Total Population in ProjectArea ,MunicipalityUrban Rural Total Population Population Babol 184,136 236,950 421,086 Babolsar 75,819 79,446 155,265 Jooybar 25,761 38,684 64,445 Savadkooh 30,421 38,819 69,240 3 Ghaemshahr 147,605 115,189 262,794 Total 463,793 509,088 972,881

IDetails of the survey are shown in Annex B

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U Population density in the upper lands is much lower than the two other sub-areas of the project. The upper lands are generally forested with scattered small settlements and no important urban centres. Seven villages in the upper area will be inundated by the Alborz Dam reservoir (all together 15 ad- 1 minstrative villages will be affected by the construction of the dam), and the people of these villages are, or will be, resettled. The lower lands are the most densely populated and has a high level of economic activities with urban areas, small and large industries and of course the main agricultural activities and irrigation-farmer communities. All the important towns and cities of the project area are located in this region. I Population Growth Rate According to the latest census, the population growth rate in this region is on average 1.39 % per year, however in Babol City as high as 3.05 % (due to in-migration). As commonly seen, birth rates are higher in rural areas than in urban areas- the further away from cities, the higher birth rate.

Immigration U Generally in Mazandaran Province, about 78.7% of the population live in their urban and rural birthplace, and about 21.3% have migrated. 7.4% have migrated from village to town, 4.7% have migrated 3 from town to town, 6.4% from village to village, and 2% from town to village.

4.3.2 Economy Mazandaran is one of the wealthier provinces of Iran due to its high agricultural productivity and the tourism activities at for example Babolsar and other locations near the Caspian Sea. Industries flour- 3 | ish in the lower lands - with considerable environmental impacts, as described in section 4.1. According to the available data for Mazandaran Province, 57.4 % of total income is related to urban households and 43.6 % to villages. Average annual household income was in (1986) 6.5 MR (Million J Rial)(1986) in urban area and 4.8 MR in rural areas. Poor families earn as little as $70/month, and only about half of all families have savings. In families with savings, the head of household often has | two jobs.

Economic activities in the upper lands are mainly livestock keeping, forestry and agriculture, while in the lower lands, agriculture is the major activity, but urban activities such as trading and service provision are also important. The population in the upper lands is generally poorer than in middle and lower lands. The average annual household income in upper lands have been estimated as only 52% 3 of that in lower lands.

Some parts of the lower lands are quite wealthy for Iranian standards. However, poor areas also exist 3 in the lower lands, for example Babolkenar village at Babol, or the villages around Joybar.

In the lower lands, 41% of the landowners have less than one hectare of land (see below). Rice is the main crop and nearly 67% of land is under rice cultivation. In addition, small quantities of wheat, different kinds of beans and vegetable are also grown. About 5000 ha are under fruit crops, mainly citrus. U

4-81 3 9/16/2004 l Table 4-27 Land Ow ership of the ProjectArea Categories of Own- Percentage of Land Percentage of Own- Average Ownership ership ers Under 1 hectare 11 41 0.46 1-3 hectares 31 44 1.58 3-5 hectares 21 10 3.5 a5-10 hectares 17 4 6.5 Over 10 hectares 10 1 14.7

1 4.3.3 Services Roads 3 In lower lands, about 78 % of roads are tarmac, 7 % gravel, 10 % earth and 5 % animal road. In middle lands about 74 % of the roads are tarmac, 17 % graveled, and 9 % earth roads. In upper lands, roads are mostly of gravel and animal type. These roads are mostly located in the forest zones.

Education According to available statistics 75 % of people living in upper, middle and lower lands are literate, 3 from which the share of men is 80 % and the share of women is 70 %. In the upper area there are only primary educational facilities, while all educational levels are covered in the lower lands, including higher education. University of Mazandaran has six faculties located at different cities in the province, including the Faculty of Arts in Babolsar, Faculty of Engineering in Babol and Faculty of Agri- culture in Sari.

| Medical and Health Services Medical and health services are mostly focused in the lower lands including hospitals, pharmacies, medical centres, doctors, dentists, veterinaries etc. In the upper lands and some parts of the middle 5 lands, medical and health service include only smaller clinics. Common death causes in Mazandaran (2003) include infectious diseases such as Tuberculosis, Diar- rhoea and viral Hepatitis. Pollution, especially chemical and biological pollutants, is very important and waterborne diseases are quite common.

Communication and Media Almost 100% of the population in the project area has access to radio and more than 90% has access to TV. In the lower lands 80% have telephone, while in the middle and upper lands this is only 42% and 35% respectively.

Housing and other Infrastructure Affairs 3 Almost 80% of the population in the project area own their family house, and details on the type of building are provided below: l l

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| Table 4-28 Types Houses in Pro ect Area epof OJ Brick Brick Ce- Fully Mud /f Materal Steel Skele- Reinforced brick or Fully 11 / ton Concrete ~~~~~~~~/Stone/wood ment stn n od an d Mud Others ton Concrete & te rsoe bok stone and wood wo X ~~~~~~~~~~~~&Steel or stone block bnkwood gion ______~~ ~~~brick 3 Babol region 4 2.8 14.8 23.9 32.5 9.7 0.7 6.2 4.3 1.7

Urban areas 8.4 4.4 21.8 24 30.4 5.9 0 1.6 1.9 1.6

3 Rural areas 0.6 1.6 9.3 23.4 34.2 11.6 1.2 9.9 6.1 2.1 Mazandaran province (equiva- Mazantddlandprovince(equi 3 2.9 20.7 32 18.2 8.1 0.9 7.9 4.1 2.2 lent to middle lands)

Urban areas 6 5 32.4 26.4 14.8 9 0.6 2.5 1.6 1.7

3 Rural area 0.6 1.2 11.2 36.4 20.9 7.4 1.1 12.4 6 2.8

Water, Electricity and Gas Supply The service level in terms of water and sanitation, electricity and gas in the project area is illustrated below as percentage of total households with services. As expected, the service level in the lower lands is quite high, while in the upper lands, only 40% of houses have piped water supply and sewage is almost absent. However, it should also be noted that 64% of the houses in the upper lands are supplied with electricity.

I Table 4-29 Water, Electricity and Gas Suppy in the Project Area (% o] total households l ~ Piped water Water treatment system Electricity Gas

Lower lands 91 50 100 15

3 Middle lands 78 23 100 10

Upper lands 40 4 64

Kinship Though the people in the project area generally belong to the same ethnic group, people in the upper * lands identify themselves as Lafoor. Family ties and kinship networks are strong in the upper affected area. There are many prominent kinship networks are these are kept alive and active through mar- riages; even the out-migration has not completely weakened this strong social networks. Possible dis- I ruption of this traditionally strong network is one of the main concerns of the households affected by construction of the Alborz Dam. For instance, a small group of better off displaced people from villages Esboukola has managed to establish a neighborhood (known as "Mozi Bagh") based on kinship U even after moving to the city of Ghaemshehr. However, a majority of the displaced households fear that kinship ties will be weakened after resettlement. 3 Social criteria based on kinship, age, education, family history and the number of male children always have had a major role in the leadership structure of the villages and management of the Com- g munity Based Organizations (CBO). In recent years some of these criteria are loosing its importance

4-83 9/16/2004 (e.g. number of male children) while others are gaining more prominence (e.g.: education). It seems these changes in the degree of the importance of social criteria have resulted in a different pattern in collective responsibilities.

In addition to the informal networks based on kinship, there are a number of formal Community Based Organizations (CBO) in all project affected villages. These include Village Islamic Council, Basij, Rural Cooperative, Financial Fund, and Haiat Omana. Each of these organizations has different functions and responsibilities.

Female-headedfamilies Accurate estimate of the number of women headed families in the project area is difficult. According to common official definition, only widows with children are considered as woman headed households. A majority of the actual women headed households are those where the husband is missing, disabled, unemployed or otherwise incapacitated. Such households are not usually counted as women headed households even though the entire responsibility of the family is borne by woman. Accord- ing to the census of 1996, only 7.6% of women (136 women -10 years and above of age) in the upper lands were economically active, a majority of them are likely to be female-headed families. A majority of the women headed households in the project area are poor and live on kinship supports or on charities. A few of them also own agricultural lands, which they usually rent out to sharecroppers.

1 4.3.4 Religion Nearly all of people who live in the region are Moslem, with small communities of other religions. J An overview of religions represented and the number of is listed below.

4.3.5 Cultural Environment The project area has been inhabited for thousands of years, and Mazandaran possesses a long historical background, yet relatively few historical sites have been preserved. The most important cultural 5 characteristics of the province and Babol city are presented below.

CulturalHeritage In spite of its age, the city of Babol has only a few sites of historical importance such as hills, buildings or monuments. The number of these places in the area is generally very low. However there are a number of sacred religious places in the city of Babol, and, of course, many mosques and cemeteries all over the project area. A list of the most important cultural sites in the lower and upper lands is presented below: l

4-84 9/16/2004 I Table 4-30 Cultural Sites in the Project Area Monument Village Type of Cultural Site Upper Lands * Emamzadeh ali and a martyrs bier Lafork Shrine Emamzadeh Darveesh and a martyrs bier Amirkola Shrine Emamzadeh Zakaria-Emamzadeh Saleh Chashtkhoran Shrine U Emamzadeh Moharnmad taghei Chaksara Shrine Emamzadeh Gazoo and a martyrs bier Kafak Shrine Three biers of martyr Goshnian Shrine Emamzadeh Sayed Ali Kiasoltan Galeshkola Shrine Emamzadeh Mehdi Shrine Mirarkola Mirakola Shrine Lower Lands Mosque and Cemetery Amirkola Ancient structure next to Chehreh Mosque belonging to Naseradin Shah. Currently being rehabilitated. Chhe Shin I Emamzadeh Sayed Ali Chehreh Shrine Emamzadeh All Derazkola Shrine

Table 4-31 Number of Mosques and Religious places in Mazandaran Province and Babol region (2000) Province/region Mosque Shrine hidowed Hossainieh and other Religious Tekeh Religion places school Mazandaran 2812 783 11253 936 1148 26 Babol region 578 72 2709 120 449 4 l 4.4 Public Consultations on the AILWMP

4.4.1 Assessment of People's Perception of the AILWMP - Public Consultation Ever since the planning of the Alborz Dam and the AILWMP was started people in the project area 1 have had opinions about the projects. The opinions have varied between different groups, first of all between those who will benefit directly from the project (irrigation farmers in the lower lands) and those who will loose their livelihood due to the construction of infrastructure (people at the dam area).

A number of fears have also been expressed by people in the project area. Fears that the project will take too much water so that downstream areas may face water shortage have been common. At the same time there has also been support to the project because "it saves water and uses it when there is a need".

An interview-based survey (attached in Annex B2) was carried out to find out what the people think about different aspects of the project. The survey was designed to cover a sufficient number of re- I sponses from the upper, middle and lower lands. The interviewees were common people in the project area with an adequate literacy and information level.

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3 In short, the interviewees were asked to state whether or not they agreed with the project, and to elaborate and qualify the reasons for their findings. l The survey covered four villages in the upper lands (Gashnian, Chaksara,Esbokola, and Lafoork); four villages in the middle lands (Pashakola, Shargholat, Qoran talar, Ganj-Afrooz, and Siahkola Ma- haleh) and six villages in the densely populated lower lands (Darzi takhib, Kasgar mahaleh, Dast- kandehkola, Sookht, Seidkola, and Koohikhail).

Considering the importance of the project implementation and the population for each location, a pre- I liminary survey was conducted to find out the required number of the samples. The results showed that 20 questionnaires per region would be sufficient. Therefore, to ensure reliability of the results, more than this number of questionnaires was distributed in each region. A sample copy of the questionnaire is attached in Annex B 1.

A total of 83 persons were interviewed (24 in upper lands, 27 in middle lands and 32 in lower lands), 5 and all interviewees were rural residents of the project area. In addition to the survey, a social assessment covering 1,091 households was undertaken, and two stakeholder workshops were held: one in Karaj with 87 participants, and one in Sari, the provincial capital of Mazandaran, with 250 partici- I pants (among them about 100 farmers, a number of foresters, some local NGOs and key local and governmental authorities). Some of the key findings from these consultation activities are summa- | rized in Box 1.1.

The subjects covered in the questionnaire are shown below.

I Table 4-32 Subjects of the Public Consultation Questionnaire Item Information of Questionnaire No. 2 I ~ ~~~~No. 2 Educational level 3 Place of work (city or village) 4 Local or outsider. 5 Knowledge of the project 6 How was he/she informed of the project. I 7_Degree of knowledge about the project. 8 Degree of knowledge about the environment. 9 Degree of knowledge about the laws of forest protection. 10 Attitudes/opinion about the project activities. 11 Attitudes/opinion about resettlement. j 12 Attitudes/opinion about waste discharge into Babol River. 13 Attitudes/opinion about livestock continuing to remain in forest. 14 Degree of agreement with the Project. 3 15 Opinion about the economy of fish culture in ab-bandans. 16 Preparedness for cooperating with the project activities. 17 Method of cooperation. I* 18 Suggestions for mitigating/controlling river pollution.

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| Results of the survey The results of the survey are summarised below:

9 - 97.6% of the interviewees were literate. Of these, 68.7% had only been to elementary school, 13.3% were high school graduates, and none had university education.

3 - 91.9% of the interviewees worked in the villages and 8.2% worked in the cities.

- Local people constituted 98.8% of the interviewees and only 1.2% were originally from other I provinces.

- All of the interviewees were informed about the AILWMP, forest activities, and irrigation/drainage activities.

- They had been informed by mass media (20.5%), through hearing (word of mouth) (39.8%), I local news (19%), and the rest were informed through a mixture of these methods. - Degree of information about project activities was low (45.8%), medium (48.25%), and suffi- I cient to comprehensive (6%). - Degree of information about the environment was low (46.6%), medium (30.5%), and sufficient to comprehensive (4.9%).

- As to the laws and regulations regarding forest protection, 18.1% were informed while 81.9% were not.

- A total of 81.1 % of the interviewees agreed with the intentions of the AILWMP, while 18.5% I disagreed with it. It should be noted hat in the lower lands, 100%, in the middle lands, 80.8%, and in the upper lands 56.8% of the interviewees agreed with the project. This illustrates a 5 somewhat limited, or hesitant, support in the upper area. - As to the resettlement issue, 55.4% agreed and 44.6% disagreed. It is interesting to note that agreement with resettlement was much higher in the upper lands compared with middle and I lower lands. Those who agreed with resettlement constituted 66.7%, 55.6%, and 44.9% of, respectively, the upper lands, middle lands, and lower lands.

1 - As to the issue of accepting wastewater discharge into the Babol River, 6.2% of the interviewees agreed while 93.8% disagreed.

| - 50% percent of the interviewees agreed with the livestock remaining in the forest and 50% disagreed. 3 - As to the degree of agreement with the forest and livestock project, 13.3% were low, 41% medium, 30.1% strong, and 15.7% very strong.

| - On the question of fish culture in ab-bandans, 80.5% agreed and 19.5% disagreed.

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I - -As to preparedness for cooperation with AILWMP and carrying out activities for forest and rangeland management, cultivation, or livestock production, 82.9% agreed and 17.1% dis- 3 agreed or were not prepared to cooperate.

- Type of cooperation and participation of the public was answered as follows: 63.4% as practical work and providing consultation/ideas, 32% providing consultation/ideas, 2.8% as writ- ings and extension works, and 1.4% had no answer.

- On the question concerning pollution control and mitigation, 6.1% gave a positive answer while 93.9% said that they knew of no solution for the problem.

- Most farmers surveyed were either partially satisfied or dissatisfied with their current irrigation methods, and as a result, increasing water supply through the new irrigation methods is motivating to them. About 60% are willing to pay up to 10% or more for water fees in the event water quantities did increase, and the majority supported the scheme.

- The impact of a new irrigation system on the economic well being of the community is seen as either very positive or partially positive (98.0%). Residents are positive on all related aspects of the new irrigation methods.

- However, within the irrigation area itself, the majority of farmers surveyed (55%) were un- a aware of the new irrigation systems/patterns that will emerge after the project. The implications are that many residents don't understand the proposed W[JA's, and/or don't understand, 3| appreciate or even trust the participatory process, which is embedded in the WUA's concept

- The end beneficiaries at the workshops raised a number of questions and concerns about the project, including the impact on their land; how the project would ensure that the design of I the secondary and tertiary canals are done with the participation of the farmers; and a need for more explanation and information about the WUAs

| - NGOs are especially concerned with environmental issues, such as water quality, fish breeding, ab-bandans etc. Farmers, on the other hand, were mainly concerned with understanding -" how the project will help them to increase crop production.

- However, about 83% of respondents stated that they were willing and ready to cooperate under the AILWMP and carry out forest and rangeland management and protection activities as I well as better livestock management. Moreover, half of the respondents supported the removal of livestock from the forest area (the remainder were against this measure).

J - However, about 83% of respondents stated that they were willing and ready to cooperate under the AILWMP and carry out forest and rangeland management and protection activities as well as better livestock management. Moreover, half of the respondents supported the removal of livestock from the forest area (the remainder were against this measure).

The above findings have been used to further refine project design, particularly of those components I relating to participatory forestry management and resettlement. Moreover, in response to the evident lack of project awareness amongst many beneficiaries, it is planned that further workshops and 3 awareness campaigns will be conducted throughout the life of the project to raise awareness of 4-88 9/16/2004 l

I ~~NGOs, farmers and local communities. Consultations with the public in the project area and timely disclosure of information to stakeholders will remain a priority for the AILWMP. Details of the sur- 3 ~~vey are attached in Annex B. l l l l I

Il I I I

l ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~4-89 3 9~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~/16/2004 l l

5 Supplementary Assessment of Environmental and Social I Impacts In this chapter the impacts of the AILWMP are assessed. Impacts of the Alborz Dam and Irrigation and Drainage Network were assessed in the EIA report (Mahab Ghodss 2002) and therefore the im- I pacts of the project are only described briefly with supplementary assessment in this chapter focusing on the additional key issues not described in the original EIA.

This chapter comprises four main sections: 5.1 Physical and Chemical Impacts Assessment; 5.2 Biological Impacts Assessment; 5.3 Assessment of Social Impacts; and 5.4 Assessment of Cumula- tive Impacts. In each of the first three sections, the impacts of the project are discussed. When rele- I vant, the assessment of impacts is further divided according to the upper, middle and lower lands of the project area. Table 5-1 defines the terms used during this assessment. 3 Table 5-1 Impact Assessment Terninology Term Definition /I.ipaCI ..'a,i, iL I Negative Impact . An impact that is considered to represent an adverse change from the baseline, or introduces a new undesirable factor Positive Impact . An impact that is considered to represent an improvement on the baseline I or introduces a new desirable factor Neutral Impact . An impact that is considered to represent neither an improvement nor dete- Impact Categoiy rioration in baseline conditions IImpact Categoi Direct Impact . Impacts that result from a direct interaction between a planned project activity and the receiving environment (e.g. between occupation of an area of I seabed and the habitats which are lost) Secondary Impact . Impacts that follow on from the primary interactions between the project and its environment as a result of subsequent interactions within the environment (e.g. loss of part of a habitat affects the viability of a species population over a wider area) Indirect Impact . Impacts that result from other activities that are encouraged to happen as a I consequence of the Project (e.g. project implementation promotes service industries in the region) Cumulative Impact . Impacts that act together with other impacts to affect the same environmental resource or receptor

5-1 9/16/2004 I Term Definirion 1,,ipaL;r Di, .7Z..-oi Temporary . Impacts are predicted to be of short duration and intermittent/ occasional in nature Short-term * Impacts that are predicted to last only for a limited period (e.g. during facility de-construction) but will cease on completion of the activity, or as a re- l sult of mitigation/ reinstatement measures and natural recovery Long-term . Impacts that will continue over an extended period. These will include impacts that may be intermittent or repeated rather than continuous if they * occur over an extended time period Permanent . Impacts that occur once on development of the Project and cause a permanent change in the affected receptor or resource (e.g. the loss of a sensitive * habitat) that endures substantially beyond the Project lifetime Impac lta Local . Impacts are on a local scale 3 National * Impacts are on a national scale (effects extend well beyond the immediate vicinity of the facilities and affect an entire region) Global * Impacts are on a global scale (e.g. global warming)

Impact Magnitude . Estimate of the size of the impact (e.g. the size of the area damaged or im- 3 pacted, the % of aresource that islost or affected etc.)

The AILWMP has a strong environmental and social focus. All project components aim at achieving positive environmental impacts in the project area. Measures to mitigate the potentially negative impacts of the Alborz Dam and the construction of the irrigation and drainage network have been designed and are presented in the ESMP. The AILWMP also focuses on institutional capacity strengthening, inter-agency co-ordination, and public participation. The overall design of the AILWMP will ensure the sustainability of positive environmental impacts of the project and that negative environmental impacts will be minimal.

* The most important environmental and social impacts are as follows:

1. Reliable irrigation water supply for increased agricultural production; 2. Impacts on the flow regime of the Babol River; 3. Impacts on soil, groundwater and surface water quality from intensified irrigated agricultural production and agro-chemical use; 4. Forest management and improvements in forest cover and quality in the upper watershed; and 3 5. Socio-economic impacts, including resettlement and land acquisition. I

5-2 3 9/16/2004 l l 1 5.1 Supplementary Assessment of Impacts on Physical and Chemical Environmental

5.1.1 Potential Impacts of the Project In the following section, the impacts of the three project phases are assessed. The activities of the first phase will mainly focus on the institutional establishment and capacity building of stakeholders and users management entities. The second phase will accelerate the construction of the irrigation and drainage systems as well as other systems control devices and equipment. The third phase will lay more emphasis on the system adjustments during the actual operational period and adaptation of the operational staff and users to the newly created water management system.

Topography, Physiography & Morphology Upper lands: The most significant change in the upper lands is replanting of forest combined with a reduction in livestock through improved forest and livestock management and creation of alternative income generating activities. The activities related to the integrated water & soil management will not affect the topography directly (apart from erosion control), but it will change the physiography of the area. It is assessed that erosion control structures and initiation of improved watershed and forestry management in the upper lands will lead to less deterioration of landscape and morphology.

Overgrazing and forest clearing will be reduced. Fencing has been carried out extensively in the upper watershed in an attempt to exclude livestock from the forest areas and allow for natural forest regeneration. The options for fencing will be evaluated during preparation of the upper watershed management plan, but it is not envisaged that additional fences will be erected under the project. Illegal logging will decrease, because of better patrolling. All these conditions are beneficial for the physiography of the forest. However, illegal logging may lead to clear-fell forest lots, because there will be fewer forest-dwellers in the forest to report the illegal activities. Therefore, improvement of the upper lands completely depends on the design of Component 1 of the AILWMP and the Forest Master Plan to be prepared.

Middle lands: The topography and physiography has totally changed around the dam, but this is not an impact related to the AILWMP. Changes in the topography caused by the AILWMP are less spectacular. But the increased forest cover will mean better erosion protection, as well as positive 3 changes in the physiography. Cutting of forest trees at the reservoir area and relocation of residents in the dam site area will lead to land disturbance in the middle lands. The relocation of power transmission lines will lead to more destruction of a part of forestland.

The impacts in upper and middle lands are assessed as positive for the project, due to replanting causing soil protection. The negative impacts arising from the dam construction are not caused by the AILWMP (and are described in the original EIA). I Lower lands: The two major activities affecting the topography at the lower lands are the Ganj- Afrooz and Reis-kola diversion weirs, the main conveyance canal, other supply and drainage canals 3 and the change of 19,000 hectares of rainfed agricultural land into irrigated farmland.

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Construction of drainage and irrigation systems and access roads around channels are the most important actions, which will lead to slight change in the topography, physiography and morphology of the lower lands. These activities will not affect the topography of the area, but excavation operation and construction of channels, will change the physiography of the area.

As a whole, however, the effect will be insignificant considering the type of impacts and the total size of the lower lands. The effect of these activities on the physiography of the area is positive, certain, and permanent from a cultivation point of view, from an environmental point of view they must be regarded as neutral or slightly negative.

Geology, Morphology and Soils Upper lands: The quality of soil on the upper lands will improve as a consequence of less soil disturbance by human and less passage of livestock, decrease in the livestock waste and grazing. The impact will not be very significant, but the porosity and water intake potential of the soil as well as plants growth and nitrogen stabilization will increase. The integrated management will prevent the use of pesticides and fertilizers in the upper lands. Therefore, the integrated project approach to land and water management will have positive, certain and permanent impact on soils in the upper lands.

Middle lands: The agricultural activities will be intensified and the vegetation cover of the forest and pasture located around the lake will increase. The impacts on soil humidity and soil imperme- ability have been assessed to be negative, while the improvement of other areas has been assessed to be positive. Therefore, according to the assessment team, the impact from the operation phase on the soil type at the middle lands will be positive.

In small, confined areas near the dam site and construction sites of the irrigation and drainage network some soil disturbance is expected. Haulage of gravel, cobbles and borrow material, concrete grouting, ramping of beds and sides will lead to mining of soil of the area with rock and chalk will have impacts. Soil grains and soil properties such as its porosity will change. This is a negative impact.

Lower lands: An area of about 19,000 hectare of lower lands will benefit from increased irrigation and 33,000 hectare will change from traditional rainfed farming to irrigated farming. The soil of those parts over will change with increased water availability. The soil on new lands will improve, but to maintain production, fertilizers will be used and pesticides may be used. From a cultivation point of view soil will improve due to ploughing, irrigation and sufficient humidity. However, if pesticides are employed and fertilizer is overused, soil quality will deteriorate especially from an environmental point of view. After discussions and analysis, the assessment team has assessed that the environmental impact from the operation phase of the integrated water & soil management on the soil quality at lower lands will be negative, weak, but certain and permanent.

In the lower lands, only the route of water irrigation main channels and/or drainage system will be affected (change in soil texture and compaction). Construction of irrigation drainage system will not affect the stratigraphy of the area, but soil will be disturbed, its type will change and its compaction increase. I

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Installation of secondary irrigation canals will have negative impact on the soil of the area. The type of effects will be the same as those arising from construction, but their intensity will be less. The infrastructure construction phase will have no significant impact on stratigraphy and soil type. Rainfed farming will change to irrigation-based farming, and a vast area of land will be levelled so that irrigation and drainage systems can be applied.

All the above mentioned factors will affect the morphology of the land. The AILWMP impacts on the geology and soil of the lower lands has been assessed as weak but negative.

Erosion Upper lands Replanting of forest, preservation of pastures and forest vegetation cover, prevention of livestock overgrazing, decrease in passage and traffic in the forest and non-development of forest routes are the factors which will certainly prevent soil erosion. Obviously, the integrated water and soil management and forest-dwellers management will have positive, certain and permanent impact on soil erosion at the upper lands. In addition, the soil erosion control and reforestation activities have a highly important, positive impact by reducing sedimentation loads in the three Babolrood tributaries supplying the Alborz Reservoir. This increases the lifespan of the dam. This is a highly positive and economically valuable impact.

Middle lands: The creation of a game reserve with preservation of forest around the dam, will, if successful, efficiently control erosion in this area, so will forest replanting and the decreased pressure on the forest resource through other income generating activities. These impacts are therefore positive and long lasting.

However, in the areas of resettlement there is the potential for a greater degree of erosion due to land use. This potential impact is considered negative.

Lower lands: The management of the water resources will secure a steady minimum flow and hinder sudden floods that would otherwise have lead to erosion, and farmlands will be irrigated properly. Therefore, the normal rate of erosion on the lower lands will decrease. According to the assessment team, the impact from the operation phase on the erosion at lower lands will be positive, certain, and permanent. I I l

5-5 I 9/16/2004 Tectonic Pasha-Kola fault lies at a distance of 750 meters from the dam site. The AILWMP will not affect the tectonic of the upper lands and it will not affect the number and intensity of earth quakes at the middle lands. The only impact on seismicity will be from the dam it self. The weight of the water body may increase the risk or frequency of earth quakes, but at the same time decrease the magnitude. The energy of the earthquakes comes from the movements in the earth's plates; the amount of energy to be released thus is permanent over a long time perspective. The tectonics are independent of the project. At lower lands constructional activities relating to drainage and water supply will not affect the seismicity or landslide potential of the lower lands.

Climate Upper lands: Forest management, prevention of tree cutting, equilibrium between timber take and growth of trees and pasture management will increase the growth of vegetation and plant biomass leading to improvement of climatic condition. Evapotranspiration will increase somewhat. But the effect of such improvement of forest condition on the rate of precipitation and temperature will be very weak. There may be a slight impact on the speed of wind due to increased forest cover, but as a whole, the project will not have any significant impact on the climate.

Middle lands: Some of the trees and part of the vegetation cover will be degraded due to dam construction, and preparation for the reservoir. The inhabitants of the reservoir site will have to be relocated and as a result, other parts of the forest will be affected. These impacts, however, come from the dam construction itself and not the AILWMP project.

Under the AILWMP replanting of forest will take place in parts middle lands and as such the impact from AILWMP on climate could be assessed as positive due to positive changes in microclimate. The changes in the macroclimate are, however, insignificant.

Lower lands: Activities related to drainage irrigation system will have no significant effect on the climate of lower lands.

As a whole, the project will not affect the general climatic conditions of the area and will not change its classification.

Surface Water Quality and Quantity Upper lands: Forest and pasture management in Pashakola drainage basin will not affect surface water quantity, but surface water quality will improve owing to slower speed of water movement through the forest and less erosion due to the existence of better vegetation cover as well as decrease in livestock waste. The impact arising from forest and pasture management on the surface water quality ad quantity has been assessed to be positive, weak, certain and permanent.

Middle lands: Water quantity will improve in the middle lands, because the volume of water from short heavy fall flowing into the sea will be collected and stored in the reservoir. The most significant positive aspect is that water will be available and accessible and will be directed toward farmlands by gravity method in the seasons when the need for water is greatest. Seasonal distribution of surface water at the lower lands has been improved and moderated. The impact arising from the in-

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tegrated water & soil management of Pashakola drainage basin on the surface water quantity at the middle lands has been assessed to be positive, strong, certain, and permanent.

The quality of surface water at the middle lands will improve overall. Construction activities including that of the Babolak diversion tunnel together with the relocation of inhabitants from the dam site will affect the surface water quality. The most important impact will be an increase in the surface water turbidity at this area and increased sediment load in the Babol riverbed. These impacts are assessed as slightly negative, but are expected to decrease after the construction is completed. This will be more observable in the flood seasons. The amount of organic matter in Azarrud, Eskalim, Karsang and other tributaries is low and will not have any significant effect on the dissolved oxygen of the water behind the dam. The increase of nitrogen and phosphorus (nutrients) will not be so great as to cause eutrophication. The impact from the project implementation on the quality of surface water at the middle lands has been assessed to be positive, modest, certain and permanent. The irrigation water to be diverted at Ganj-Afrooz and Reisikola diversion weirs will not be affected by the urban waste water discharge in the lower lands.

Lower lands: Figure 5. l(below) shows the planned monthly river flow of the Babol River at two different stations after the dam is operational. The figure also includes an estimated "Biological Wa- ter Demand"', which has been established to assess the ecological water needs for flora and fauna in the river over the year as a qualified demand contrary to the earlier proposed lm 3/sec fixed minimum base flow. The figure shows that during three months (Mehr (Oct), Khordad (Jun), Tir (Jul), and Mordad (Aug)), biological water demand in Babolrood is critical and given the planned flow passing Ganj-Afrooz. However, some inflow is expected from drainage channels and small tributaries downstream of Ganj-Afrooz, and with the planned minimum base-flow, the conditions for river ecology are expected to improve markedly compared to the baseline situation, where the river almost runs dry in the summer. l I l I I

The biological water demands are a course estimate and will be more thoroughly studied under the river ecology component of the ESMP.

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l Figure 5. IfBabol River Monthly Discharge at Gauging Stations - With and Without Project U Babol River Monthly Discharge at Main Points -10-year average(1989-1999) With * Project

* ~~~~~~20 1 < -: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~25 E 15

o , ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 10

I O O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~A

Apr. May. Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar.

| + After Alborz Dam CP2 -U- After GanjAf rooz CP2 x Ecological water demand

Babol River Monthly Discharge at Guaging stations - 10-year average(1 989-1999) Without Project

80 30 U= 70 E ; jXE . , . i__ * '_70 25.

~~~~~~~~~E 40 i 10 * 20 t.~~~V 0

Apr. May. Jun. Jul Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar.

- Fashakola -U-- Qaran talar Babol I

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It may be necessary to release more water from Alborz Dam first reach and from Ganj-Afrooz to the second reach for compensation of the shortages, but this will have to monitored closely by the AILWMP, as already planned under Component 3, Integrated Water Resources Management.

While the estimates of the planned releases from the Alborz Dam and Ganj-Afrooz diversion weir are based on the feasibility study of Alborz Dam and related Irrigation and Drainage Scheme, the new alternatives for water requirement of irrigation and drainage scheme considering different new cropping patterns are still under preparation by Mahab Ghodss Water Resources Dept. In the feasibility study water resources planning, the ecological demand in the Babolrood is an assuption and taken as a constant 1 m3/sec for all months of the year. This assumption of lm 3/sec is also the figure agreed with the regional authorities.

With the dam and the AILWMP, the quantity of surface water in the lower lands will improve considerably, because Babolrood will have its minimum flow all year and, contrary to the existing condition, which is resulting in a "dry" River bed due to illegal irrigation pumping. Canals will supply water to farmlands especially in summer. In the present situation (without implementation of the project), traditional channels are dry in summer. With the project water will flow in channels in summer and will be accessible wherever needed.

The traditional, man-made reservoirs for irrigation water, the ab-bandans, will be preserved for multiple purposes, especially fish-farming. In addition, there are plans to improve biodiversity management of nine of these as sanctuaries for migratory birds. These plans will not be affected by the project; on the contrary, the project will have a positive impact on water supply for ab-bandans. During the rainy season, the additional water of ab-bandan will be directed to rivers and the sea.

The impact from the project implementation on the quantity of surface water in the lower lands has been assessed to be strongly positive, certain and permanent.

The quality of surface water at the lower lands will also improve greatly. In the present condition, rivers act as sewers in summer. In Phase II of the project the minimum base flow in Babolrood will increase the dilution of pollution. This impact will be combined with that of the planned sewage treatment plants. Together these will improve water quality significantly.

Decrease in sedimentation will lead to the gradual increase in the river depth and development of improved biological conditions over the riverbeds and riverbanks, which will indirectly improve water quality. The impacts arising from the implementation of the AILWMP on the quality of surface water at the lower lands are therefore assessed as positive and long lasting.

Impacts on International Waterways The three main rivers of the project area (Babolrood, Talar and Siahrood) drain into the Caspian Sea, which is an international water body shared by Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Russia and Azerbaijan. Therefore WB safeguard policy OP 7.50 is triggered by the AILWMP.

As described in chapter 4 (Baseline Conditions) the Volga is by far the most important river draining into the Caspian Sea. The average discharge rate of the Volga (on annual basis) is 8076 m3/sec. In total, all the rivers of Iran only contribute only 6% of the annual amount of water discharged into

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the Caspian Sea. The average discharge rate of Babolrood into the Caspian Sea is 2.9m3 /sec. The contribution of the Babolrood is thus only 0.04% of the Volga.

The water contribution to the Caspian Sea by the three rivers in the project area is negligible, and since the water quality of the three rivers in the project area is expected to be improved by the AILWMP, the impacts on international waterways are slightly positive but generally insignificant.

Since WB Safeguard Policy OP7.50 is triggered, the riparian countries of the Caspian have been notified by the WB on behalf of the GOI about the AILWMP.

Ground Water Quality & Quantity Upper lands: Activities related to downstream construction of drainage and water supply system, auxiliary installations and infrastructure will not affect the quality and quantity of the ground water of the upper lands. However, pasture and forest management as well as a decrease in the number of livestock will have a weak positive impact on the groundwater quality and quantity. Better vegetation cover will mean increased rainwater infiltration into the ground and the quantity of ground water will increase. The assessment team has assessed the impact from forest management on the quantity and quality of the groundwater in the upper lands to be positive.

Middle lands: Dam and diversion dams will not affect the quality of the groundwater in the middle lands, because operations will be carried out in an area where there will be no need to take groundwater for construction activities. Moreover all the springs and wells used by local people are located uphill of the areas where construction activities are to be performed. The impacts from AILWMP construction on the groundwater of the middle lands during construction are assessed as negative. The implementation of the integrated water and soil management along with dam operation and recharge will cause a high volume of water to be reserved at the middle lands all year round. Water elevation will be increased to about 70m. Both the speed of infiltration into the ground water and the percolation area will increase. As a result the ground water table will rise and probably a number of springs will appear at foothills near the river and in addition the yield of the existing springs will increase. The impact arising from the project implementation on the quantity of ground water at middle lands during implementation has been assessed to be highly positive and permanent.

Groundwater quality in the middle lands will improve owing to the infiltration of more water with better quality. In the northeast of the project area, including sections of the Talar, Babol, and Haraz plains, saline seawater is intruding into the coastal fresh water aquifers due to minor elevation differences between the sea and the ground surface and the unsustainable extraction of groundwater. This intrusion is occurring in most parts of the eastern coastal areas of the plain, starting from Ba- bolsar all the way to the outlet of the Siah River. The reservoir of the Alborz Dam will contribute to raising current groundwater levels which will prevent the further intrusion of seawater, through ensuring adequate groundwater recharge and establishing a ground water level that is permanently above the sea surface. On the other hand, the water table coming near the surface will cause the groundwater to come into more contact with the existing sewage and waste water in the absorption wells. Therefore, the impact arising from the implementation of the integrated management on the quality of the groundwater at the middle lands has been assessed to be slightly positive, weak, but long lasting.

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Lower lands: The construction activities related to irrigation and drainage network and ab-bandans improvement will be carried out at the lower lands. Due to soil disturbance, ground water quality I will deteriorate slightly. The quantity of groundwater at the lower lands will not be affected by the first phase of AILWMP. The groundwater level will be unchanged. The groundwater will enter the drains at the areas where ground water level is currently 1.5 meters below the surface. The aquifer I volume will decrease slightly, but always remains at the drain level. The impact on the quantity of the groundwater at the lower lands has been assessed to slightly negative during construction.

3 The implementation of the integrated management will increase the quantity of the groundwater at the lower lands (such increase will be nearly constant), because of the following reasons: 1. There will be an increase in infiltration assuring a positive flow of ground water to the Cas- I pian Sea, 2. Water availability in the ab-bandans will increase in summer, 3. A greater area of land will be irrigated (19,000 hectare of newly irrigated agricultural land).

The project impact on the quantity of the groundwater at the lower lands is assessed as moderate, certain and permanent.

The quality of the groundwater at the lower lands depends on the following factors: i. Sewage collection and treatment U ii. Proper disposal of urban and rural solid waste and prevention of leaching from penetrating into the groundwater iii. Control of the use of fertilizers on the farmlands iv. Controlled use of phosphate fertilizers bearing heavy metals over the permissible level v. Controlled use of pesticides, especially chlorinated ones and those that are non-biodegradable. vi. Following the instructions for the proper irrigation of the farmlands as well as controlling the I good performance of drainage system

If the above aspects are effectively addressed, the quality of the groundwater of the area will defi- I nitely improve. The project will actively address the latter four items, while items i) and ii) are beyond the project scope. The impact of the project in Phase II on groundwater quality at the lower lands is assessed as positive, permanent and long-lasting, but the impact from untreated sewage, I waste and waste water may be of such magnitude that groundwater quality in the project area will decline regardless the efforts and positive impacts caused by the AILWMP. It should therefore also be noted that groundwater quality improvements will not be a very good indicator of positive pro- I ject impacts. 5.2 Supplementary Assessment of Impacts on Biological Environment * For convenience the impacts of the two project phases have been combined in this section. It should be noted that the major construction works are likely to be implemented even without the AILWMP. I

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5.2.1 Potential Impacts of the Project Upper lands Over the long term, water quality in the rivers will increase as better forest cover leads to less silta- I tion and turbidity in the rivers. However, in the first years of implementation, when diversion weirs and canals are constructed, this will cause increased turbidity in the rivers. I Impacts on flora with the proiect: The project will introduce watershed management (46,500 ha) and forestry and rangeland management (55,000 ha), which will include replanting of forest adding to the existing forest. Voluntary I resettlement and a decrease in the number of livestock will significantly reduce the pressure on the forest resource. Better planning, management and monitoring of forestry in the upper watershed will mean better protection of existing forest and increased forest cover due to natural regeneration. Spe- I cies composition in the forest will also be more diverse compared to the without-project alternative. The number of forest roads will be kept at a minimum, which will hinder further encroachment on * the forest resource and reduce erosion.

The increased turbidity in the first years could possibly affect the aquatic plants negatively, however, during fieldwork it was noted that problems of turbidity exist, already affecting the flora. Re- planting of forest will decrease erosion and siltation thereby improving conditions for aquatic plants.

All in all, the project will, if successfully implemented, have substantial positive impacts on the natural environment by changing the current negative development into a positive, more sustainable development. I Impacts on fauna with the proiect: The project will lead to an increased natural vegetation in the upper lands supporting a higher biodiversity. The true forest species can only survive with large tracts of forest, but along roads and vil- I lages some more opportunistic species will also occur. Without the project only the opportunistic species will prevail. All of the larger species of mammals occurring in the area thrive in dense forest and will benefit from better forest cover.

It is hoped that fencing of the forest can be limited through better planning and by a decrease in the number of livestock. The options for fencing will be evaluated during preparation of the upper watershed management plan, but it is not envisaged that additional fences will be erected under the project.

I With increased patrolling hunting will be controlled better and to the benefit of the animals.

In the rivers some turbidity will occur in the first phase, it is uncertain whether this will significantly affect the aquatic animals, as there is some turbidity under the existing conditions. In a longer perspective turbidity will decrease and the living conditions for aquatic animals (among others, the endemic red-dotted trout) will improve. The project will secure a minimum flow in the river, which will secure the aquatic animals from drastic population declines when the river dries out.

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Impacts on protected areas with the project. The game reserve areas will only be established if the project is implemented.

The areas of high biodiversity can be incorporated in the master planning of the forestry activities, implying extra gentle management and assignment of core areas for in-situ conservation of the forest seed gene pool.

Impacts on threatenedspecies with the project: With the project, more closed forest; better conditions for the threatened species of flora and less f erosion are expected.

For the upper lands in general some substantial permanent positive impacts are anticipated if the I project is implemented successfully.

Middle lands Impacts on flora and protected areas with the project: In the middle lands the most conspicuous impact from the project will be if the forest master planning succeeds in planting mixed forests and indigenous trees instead of the ubiquitous coniferous trees. This will also affect the soil positively. There are no protected areas in the middle lands and no plans to create any in connection with the project.

Better pest management will mean that less pesticides will enter the rivers, this positive impact could, together with less turbidity and stable water flow, probably mean that improvements will be * seen with the naked eye (clearer water and more aquatic plants).

Impacts on fauna and threatenedspecies with the proiect: Larger mammals in the middle lands are mostly stragglers from the highlands. If the project is im- I plemented these stragglers will be more commonly seen and some may even survive in the middle lands if hunting can be controlled. The threatened Boxwood is still found in stands of mixed forest in the middle lands, these can probably only survive if the project is implemented.

All in all a very significant and visual positive impact is anticipated if the project is properly implemented.

Lower lands Impacts on flora and protected areas with the project: As has been mentioned the flora in the lower lands is so extensively altered by man, that the only flora to be affected with or without the project is the aquatic flora both in the rivers and in the ab- bandans. Among the species to benefit from this, are the uncommon water lilies that have dwindled * in numbers.

With the project it is expected that not all ab-bandans will be used for fish cultivation and hence some of them will develop a richer flora. The ab-bandans will have a secure water source with the AILWMP and will not be allowed to be drained.

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It is possible that the nutrient load will still play a role in the ab-bandans and that some experiment- ing with nutrient removal must be carried out.

Nine ab-bandans will be considered for improved biodiversity management, mainly as bird sanctuaries. These are: Larim, Zarin-kola, Anarmarz, Roshandan, Esmaeel-kola, Azizak, Langoor, Ag- hoozben, and Eastern Ramnat. Feeding of birds in the ab-bandans designated for bird preservation could lead to poor water quality, although perhaps not as poor as with fish cultivation (because the amount of fodder applied is smaller) but still this could pose an eutrophication problem.

A secured minimum base flow of the Babolrood, together with less use of herbicides will secure better conditions for the water plants.

Impacts on the fauna and threatenedspecies in the lower lands with the project: One of the most endangered species of birds, the west Siberian population of Siberian Cranes, counting only four individuals are now only present outside the project area. They may visit the ab- bandans proposed as bird sanctuaries if the project is implemented.

Improved protection of the nine ab-bandans means that the rare species of black terns will be able to continue to breed in the project area (unique to this region of the world). Fishes other than the cultivated carps which can survive poor water quality will also benefit from the bird sanctuaries.

Fishes and other aquatic wildlife will also have improve living conditions in the rivers in the "with project situation" as a minimum flow will allow them to be there all year round. Modification of old weirs or possible "fish ladders" could enable the critically endangered sturgeon to spawn again in the Babolrood (provided that the water quality also improves, as is anticipated with the ongoing construction of sewage treatment plants). Full re-establishment of the Babolrood for fish spawning will require careful study of the conditions required by this specialised fish and the taking of the necessary steps to ensure that the required conditions pertain in the river.

Summary of Biological Impacts To summarize the impacts with the project, it must be concluded that all the negative impacts on fauna and flora are expected to continue if the project is not implemented, but that there will be very significant positive impacts for the unique fauna and flora if the project is implemented. Even a moderate success with the implementation will make a huge difference compared to the "without project" alternative.

This conclusion is not surprising as the negative development is expected to continue without the project, as the dam has been constructed and the agricultural sector will benefit from this considerable investment. This development project is going to incorporate protection of the environment in an integrated manner. In other words, without the AILWMP the environment will suffer from the investment in the dam and irrigation and drainage network.

5.3 Supplementary Assessment of Social Impacts The following assessment assesses the major impacts of the project on social, socio-economic and cultural issues. The first three sub-sections include assessment of the impacts for the duration of the

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project. In addition to these three sub-sections, this section contains a supplementary assessment of the direct social impacts of the Alborz Dam (extracted from the Resettlement Action Plan, attached to this report as Annex E) and of the project impacts as perceived by people in the project area. This I latter information was compiled during the public participation sessions held at the end of 2003.

5.3.1 Potential Impacts of the Project

Upper lands Social impacts Under the current GOI programme for resettlement from forests, there are plans to encourage about 267 single household, and 933 herdsmen from the upper lands to be relocated from the forest to I other areas. The impact of this resettlement activity will have to be in accordance with the resettlement policy framework (RPF) developed for the upper lands (Annex E of this report).

I Encouraging a number of forest-dwellers to relocate (from the forest to other areas) through resettlement or without resettlement or cash compensation will result in loss of their attachment to their relatives and birthplace. Loss of birthplace has livelihood implications for the resettled people and also implies loss of spiritual attachment to their previous location. These impacts will be similar to those experienced by the people resettled, or prone to resettlement, at the reservoir area.

I Decrease in population and population density at the forest is regarded an environmentally positive effect, but compulsory migration from the forest is assessed as a negative social impact. The most important negative impact relates to the loss of attachment to relatives and birthplace and the loss of I the forest-based livelihood. Compensation or resettlement will compensate a part of negative impacts for a short period of time. However, other adverse effects must be compensated over a longer * period of time.

The number of livestock will be reduced but improved livestock management practices will be introduced (zero or semi-zero grazing). This may have some social impacts, but generally improve the I social situation for livestock keepers, with improved food security and more effective use of their labour input in production, allowing more time for social activities or leisure. Income generating activities as proposed by the project may also have a positive impact on the social conditions. The social impacts on the upper lands under the project are positive.

Economic impacts There will be three groups of people on the upper lands during construction:

A) People who have received compensation and have left the forest, or receiving a portion of compensation have been resettled, remaining who will be resettled after the master plan.

B) People who have entered the area or travel to the area for implementing different parts of the I project, such as technicians for watershed management, road construction, forest management, afforestation and pasture management. I

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C) Forest-dwellers who are not subject to resettlement, but will be affected by project implementation.

People of the third group will have new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods in the forest. They will be involved in participatory planning and realise new productive and income generating opportunities during the construction phase of the project. In addition, occasional employment opportunities as labourers may arise from project implementation.

The forest and rangeland development will become more sustainable and have a positive impact on the economy in the area, as mentioned above. Job opportunities may also be created in relation to implementation of project interventions in the upper lands. In addition, eco-tourism may be developed around the Alborz Reservoir or in the surrounding forest lands, which will have a considerable positive impact on the economy of the area; including positive impacts for the inhabitants, who may access job opportunities as labourers, guides, etc.

The economic impacts in the upper lands are assessed as highly positive for the people remaining in the project are, but may be uncertain for the people who volunteer to be resettled under the GOI program.

Cultural Impacts Involvement of people in the upper lands in planning and management of the forest areas will have a positive impact on the cultural situation and people's sense of belonging to the area, which will now be managed sustainably. The possible eco-tourism activities, may cause some changes in the cultural pattern and behaviour due to the exposure to tourists.

Middle lands The AILWMP has severe impacts for the resettled people from the dam area in terms of loss of livelihood and possibly also social aspects. Therefore the specific impacts related to resettlement are described separately in section 5.3.4. Other social, economic and cultural impacts in the middle lands are described below.

Social Impacts Public participation, training and provision of information on the AILWMP and the holistic management approach will have a positive social effect on people in the middle lands. Negotiation with the people and implementation of interventions acceptable to the people will be positive. However, the social impacts for the people in the middle lands prone to resettlement in the construction phase are uncertain and may be negative.

Economic Situation Implementation of the AILWMP will facilitate the economic improvement and development in the middle lands by ensuring adequate surface water supply for irrigation and thereby ensuring agricultural production. This will allow further investment in the area and considerable economic growth, with associated employment and business opportunities. The only restrictions that may be posed by the project could be related to the seasonal migration with livestock to upper lands. In order to conserve the upper lands and reduce erosion, dwellers in the middle lands may have to find other oppor-

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5 tunities for feeding their livestock. Support to this will be provided by the project. Therefore, the economic impacts in the middle lands are assessed as highly positive. 3 Moreover, the economic improvement will increase the employment rate and lead to improved land use and, possibly, welfare facilities. Welfare facilities may be improved because of increased currency circulation. By accessibility to water between Reiskola and Ganj-Afrooz diversion weirs, it will be possible to cultivate more lands or to change the cropping pattern and to develop auxiliary industries. Obviously, agricultural and livestock keeping will gradually become industrial. The economic impacts are assessed as positive.

CulturalSituation The project is not expected to cause any major cultural impacts for people in the middle lands.

Lower lands Social Impacts Implementation of the AILWMP will gradually develop modern drainage and irrigation water supply in the lower lands. 19,000 ha of new agricultural land will be developed and 33,000 ha will be rehabilitated during construction phase and the impacts will come gradually. The project is expected I to result in major positive social impacts through i) increased welfare because of increased economic growth, and ii) increased farmer participation in planning, management and monitoring of water resources management in irrigation through WUGs and WUAs. Through training and exten- I sion service delivery people will improve their skills in irrigation management and, for example, biological pest control. The organisational capacities of people will improve which may have social impacts far beyond irrigation and agriculture.

An important social impacts is also the mobilisation and formation of WUAs and WUGs, where farmers in the lower lands will organise themselves to manage their water resources. The mobilisa- I tion and organisation process has potentially important, positive social dimensions.

People whose lands is located in the new irrigation area will experience major benefits from access | to reliable water supply for irrigation and this will lead to positive economic as well as social impacts. However, to manage modern irrigation, a considerable training effort is required for farmers in this area, which will also lead to positive social impact and upgrading of the farming skills of I these inhabitants. Migration into the area will probably increase due to the increased level of economic activities.

3 A negative impact may be for the people whose land will be acquired for construction of canals and drains. They will be financially compensated, but the impact may still be regarded as negative.

Economic situation Implementation of the AILWMP will directly affect currency circulation and employment through ensuring water supply for irrigation. By improving the lands and upgrading the skills of farmers I through training and capacity development cultivation methods and subsequently yields increase and become more reliable. This will result in major economic impacts and stimulate growth and investments in both agro-related and non-agricultural businesses. Implementation of the project will I increase employment rates and the level of expertise in the area.

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Stable water supply will to some extent reduce the requirement for pumping water from rivers or wells and will ensure sufficient amounts of water in ab-bandans. Increase in incomes will increase 3 consumption and demand, so goods and services will become more expensive, but also more available. The unemployment rate may be reduced with additional labour opportunities in farming and farm related businesses, but this may be counteracted by migration to this area, which will now be a J major growth area in Mazandaran. The economic impacts are assessed as long lasting and highly positive.

| Land and service prices will increase. Increase in prices may be good for local residents, but for people who want to start farming, it creates difficulties due to higher investment costs at start-up. This is a negative, but unavoidable impact. Increased land prices may tempt poor people to sell their I farm.

| Culturalsituation The AILWMP will not disturb shrines, mosques or cemeteries in the project area. It is common practice in civil works in Iran to avoid damaging any kind of cultural or religious properties. There- | fore, in the construction phase of the irrigation and drainage network, if any case arises, the alignment will be changed and re-planned according to the conditions to avoid damage to cultural or religious properties, in conformity to national regulations.

The Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance of the Islamic Republic of Iran does not allow direct archaeological field surveys by others than the Ministry itself. In Mazandaran, this implies that all 3 archaeological surveys must be carried out by the Cultural Heritage Office in Sari. Mazandaran has been generally surveyed by the Office, and the finds cause no restrictions for the implementation of the AILWMP. Still a field survey of the planned alignments for the main irrigation canal is planed prior to construction. The cultural impacts in the lower lands are therefore assessed as neutral.

Implementation of AILWMP will not have major cultural impacts in the short term. But in the long I term it may enhance the public culture and the wealth generated may change people's cultural behaviour in various ways. However, the overall assessment of cultural impacts is neutral. l 5.3.2 Resettlement Impacts of the Alborz Dam This sub-section assesses the direct impacts of resettlement at Alborz Dam. Though the dam is not a * direct part of the project, the resettlement issues are of importance to the AILWMP in several ways and therefore a Resettlement Plan (RP) for the dam area has been developed. In addition, Resettle- ment Policy Frameworks have been developed for the upper and lower lands, where resettlement activities may take place, and where land acquisition will definitely take place.

The directly impacted area at Alborz Dam extends over altogether 18 rural settlements (15 administrative villages). These may be divided into the following three groups:

Group A: 4 settlements - Nafchal, Bourkhani, Pashakola, Dehkalan - are located near the dam site. The first two are losing all theirpaddy land but their orchards and residential areas are not affected.

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I The other two are marginally affected by acquisition of part of their farmlands for the purpose dam related works. They can continue to live at their present location and cultivate remainder of their lands even after the completion of the dam.

Group B: 7 settlements - Deotak, Gashnian, Esboukola, Lafourak, Mirarkola, Chashtkoran and Chaksara - All but Deotak village are located within the reservoir impoundment area and will be l entirely submerged and therefore need to be evacuated. Deotak is a small market center with no settlement, which also is fully affected. This is the most seriously affected group of villages.

| Group C: 7 settlements - Kafak, Hajikola, Amirkola, Tangosar, Roudbarsara and Largechal - are located at the periphery of the reservoir and only party affected by reservoir impoundment. How- ever, these villages will be evacuated entirely for the catchment area/forest protection purpose. The I last three of these seven villages are small with population of less than 20 households and are being evacuated by the Forest Organization whereas the other four villages will be evacuated by the Re- gional Water Organization. In effect, these villages are affected as seriously as the seven villages located in the reservoir region.

Figure 5.2 Map ofAlborz Dam area with affected villages

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Various types of losses and impacts are assessed below:

Loss of land | Construction of the dam and the storage reservoir will involve acquisition of a total 804 ha of land of the 15 administrative villages. This includes: - 545 ha of paddy land; 3 - 93 ha of orchards - 84 ha of homesteads including area under structures and yards/gardens - 47 ha of unutilised land 3 - 15 ha of pastures and forests - 20 ha of miscellaneous kinds of land used for public buildings, shops and businesses

The affected land and properties belong to 1401 landowners. An estimated 25% of the affected are absentee landowners currently residing outside the project-affected area.

The most important asset and consequently the greatest loss is that of paddy land. All but two villages (Dehkalan and Pashakola) are losing their entire paddy land. Orchards and residential areas of Naftchal and Bourkhani are above the reservoir impoundment area and the owners can continue to live in their village even after the completion of the dam.

Displacement 3 Some 885 households (population 3674 - 1996 census) from 15 administrative villages are affected by the project. However, every village is not affected to the same extent.

3 * 14 villages are fully affected. The 550 households living in these villages will be displaced. * Four villages are only partially affected. 335 households from these four villages are losing part/whole of their farmlands but their orchards and houses are outside the project affected area. Loss of land will not have a significant impact on their livelihood;

This first is the most seriously affected group. They would have to move to a new location and re- | establish themselves both economically and socially.

Impacts on Livestock Practices 3 Livestock keeping is the second most important economic activity in the affected villages. Almost all households keep a few heads of cattle around the homestead. In addition, a large number of households also practice semi-migratory pastoral activities based on summer-winter pastures. Con- 3 struction of the dam and the impoundment of the reservoir will affect this activity in the following manner: * Impoundment of the reservoir will entail submergence of small area of pastureland and dis- | ruption of some of the migratory routes between summer-winter pastures. However, this in itself is not considered as a serious problem as alternate routes exist; * Currently, the pastoral practices of the affected communities are dependent on use of forests I as free rangeland. As the carrying capacity of forestlands has been far exceeded, the Forest Department is trying to totally stop grazing through its ongoing "Program for Relocation from the Northern Forests and Relocation of the Scattered Forest Dwellers". This program 3 will be extended to the seven project affected villages located at the periphery of the reser-

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voir. Resettlement activities associated with this activity are addressed separately as a part of the AILWMP - Natural Resource Management Component. * Loss of farmland and displacement will make it difficult to continue even with the home- | stead based livestock keeping (katool).

Discontinuation of livestock activities has serious economic implication for villages such as Mir- | arkola, Amirkola and Gashnian where a majority of the pastoral communities are living.

Impacts on other economic activities I Loss of land and displacement has direct and indirect impacts on supplementary income generating activities such as sharecropping, bee keeping and silk cocoon production widely practiced by the affected communities: * Submergence of almost the entire area of paddy land will substantially reduce the land available for sharecropping. This would mean loss of livelihood for those households who are mainly dependent on sharecropping even though they may not be directly affected by land I acquisition; * Both beekeeping and silk cocoon production are dependent on land. For instance, the feed for silk worms - mulberry leaves - is grown on marginal and forestlands around summer I pastures. Affected communities will not be able to continue these activities for lack of land or lack of access to the forests. * For wage earners, displacement and relocation will mean greater distance between home and I workplace, and consequently higher costs on transportation. Some of them may be com- pelled to even give up their present job. Similarly, small businesses and enterprises servicing primarily the affected communities will not be able to continue in the absence of clientele.

Impacts on Public Infrastructure Community assets such as shrines, mosques and cemeteries and public infrastructures such schools, I clinics and other facilities will be affected by the project. * Community cultural properties such as shrines are not only religious symbols but also an important source of income for the village community who owns such shrines (Pilgrims to such shrines contribute significantly to the village economy). Loss of shrines therefore means not only disruption of traditional cultural activities, but also loss of income for the village community; I * Demolition of public facilities such as schools, clinics etc. have implications for smaller villages which are outside the affected area but are currently dependent on neighbouring village facilities in the affected area; * Power transmission lines and water supply networks of villages such as Lafourak, Esbokola, Gashnian, Chashtkoran and Hajikola will be affected by the impoundment of reservoir. Since all these villages are fully affected and therefore to be relocated, loss of these infrastructure has no long-term implications; * Submergence of access roads and disruption normal routes on account of construction activities would cause temporary difficulties for partially affected villages.

Social Impacts from Resettlement Family ties and kinship networks are strong in the project-affected area. At present, their social and 3 economic lives are inter-dependent and are built on kinship ties, mutual help, strong sense of com-

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munity and collective responsibility and close cooperation between households in all agricultural activities. Displacement and consequent dispersal of households will result in breakdown of these closely knit and culturally homogeneous communities. Absence of these support structures after displacement is likely to affect their ability to cope with the new social and economic demands after relocation. Particularly vulnerable would be elderly couples living alone and female headed households. 5.4 Cumulative Project Specific Impacts In this section the assessment of cumulative impacts is presented. Cumulative (environmental) ef- I fects can be defined as effects that are caused by more than one activity; they may result from AILWMP component projects or from the combination of AILWMP project activities and from 3 other actions/developments that are stimulated to occur as a result of the project.

Therefore, cumulative effects can result from individually minor, but collectively significnat actions, taking place over a temporal and spatial scale.

It is recognised that the assessment of cumulative effects represents best practice in conducting environmental assessments. The overall aim being to ensure that the interactions between all impacts I of developments projects, plans and programes have been assessed and evaluated such that a true prediction of the environmental effects can be achieved. Such an assessment are expected to:

| * Assess effects over a larger area than would normally be considered during a project-level assessment; * Assess impacts over a longer time period, both past, present and future; * Consider impacts of other actions, not just the project, under review; and a Evaluate direct and indirect impacts and interactions between these impacts.

| Because cumulative impacts are often very vaguely defined and are based on a large spatial and temporal scale, it is often difficult to meaningfully quantify their effects. This is particularly the case where there is a lack of data. Cumulative impact assessment is therefore often based on a significant I amount of uncertainty and analyses based on assumptions. The aim is not, however, to be perfectly accurate, but rather to raise awareness and to predict as far as is possible the cumulative effects such that informed decisions can be made.

The majority of cumulative effects identified under this project are pre-existing issues, which have been taken into consideration during project design. It is indeed the negative issues amongst these, I which the project is designed to alleviate. The AILWMP has a strong environmental and social focus, with all project components aiming to ensure the sustainability of positive environmental impacts in the project area. It will be important, however, that the key potential cumulative impacts identified be monitored throughout project implementation in order to more accurately determine their effects and take action, where needed.

| The following section describes the key potential cumulative impacts identified. It is important to note that the ESA of the AILWMP will focus particularly on the cumulative effects on humans in- I 5-22 I 9/16/2004 side the project area. Cumulative impacts arising from project implementation are therefore considered from two perspectives:

3 (i) Indirect and secondary impacts arising from different interactions of primary impacts. This includes the effects arising from accumulation of materials in living tissues or environmental parameters, as well as increases in vulnerability and/or chain effects.

(ii) Cumulative impacts arising from all projects2 implemented in the area (past, present and reasonable foreseeable future) and the effects resulting from each project. Each project may well meet all I environmental standards, but the accumulation of the effects from all projects generates a more significant impact.

According to the Iranian practice of EIA, the effect stated in (i) must be forecast and assessed with the effects mentioned in (ii) of other developments and land use projects in the area.

5.4.1 Analysis of Project Cumulative Impacts Cumulative impacts are assessed within the entire watershed (upper, middle and lower lands) and I the assessment includes secondary and tertiary order impacts arising from the project on the environment and people of the area. Potential cumulative impacts are described in full in Figure 5-3 overleaf. However, the following provides a brief overview of the key cumulative impacts to be considered and closely monitored during project implementation.

Soil Erosion I A key component of the AILWMP is the management of forest and pasture. These activities will result in increased vegetation cover and a resultant decrease in soil erosion. Topsoil erosion in the upper lands has been a significant problem, resulting in increased turbidity and decreased water I quality in receiving water sources, which in turn reduces biological capacity and biodiversity. An additional effect of soil erosion would be siltation of the Alborz reservoir and hence a shortened life of the dam. Therefore the efforts for combating soil erosion, as described in AILWMP component 1, * have very broad and important cumulative impacts, not only for soils, but also for water resources, biodiversity, livelihood opportunities of forest dwellers and of course investment returns in relation to the Alborz Dam.

Fertilizer and Pesticide Use Under the AILWMP agricultural development is the main objective. Development of agricultural activities will increase the use of fertilizers and pesticides. This will need careful monitoring as a * number of potential negative cumulative impacts can be identified:

* Excessive use of chemical fertilizer use disturbs soil equilibrium, decreasing porosity and hence the ability of plants to take up vital elements; * The use of pesticides can alter the natural flora resulting in a decrease in useful species;

3 (2) "All projects" refers not only to the AILWMP and its subcomponents, but also all other projects/developments in the area.

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* Fertilizers and pesticides entering surface and ground water causes water pollution and can lead to eutrophication. This would be particularly problematic in the ab-bandans, nine of which have been identified as ecologically sensitive and important as bird nesting sites; *I* Use of inferior quality phosphate fertilizers can increase the amount of cadmium in soil and water, which can lead to secondary effects in plants, animals and eventually humans, in the form of | serious health impacts.

A key part of the implementation of the integrated water and soil management of Pashakola drainage basin relates to scientific training and capacity building, as well as contamination monitoring - especially of surface and ground water.

IndustrialPollution Implementation of the AILWMP is expected to result in increased agricultural production. A possible effect of this will be an increase in agricultural food processing plants and other associated industries. Such developments will need to be closely monitored, as a number of potential negative I cumulative impacts could arise. For example, any increases in waste water, if not treated, may be discharged into the groundwater via soak-away pits or wells and hence increase groundwater pollution. This in turn may lead to the transmission of pathogens to humans, plants and animals in the lower lands.

A further consideration is the level of the water table. There is a suggestion that this may rise under I the AILWMP. If this is the case, such pollution of groundwater may contaminate surface water as well as ab-bandans located in the lower lands. This could lead to serious health impacts in humans, * as well as the degradation of ecologically sensitive and important areas.

5.4.2 Summary of Project Cumulative Impacts In figure 5.3 (below), positive and negative impacts are divided into direct and indirect. The cumulative impacts have almost been described as a final essence, in the form of primary, secondary and tertiary. To make them easier to understand, the impact assessment results of the project are shown as a flow chart on the next page.

The consequences impacts effects human, vegetation, animals and finally peoples demands / expec- tation and life quality and the way of communities relationship and physical and psychological welfare of the people.

As the final evaluation of the AILWMP the assessment flowchart clearly indicates much more positive impacts for project implementation rather than negative impact. l

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slaudtul laafoij I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ l l l I

6 Analysis of Alternatives 1 6.1 Analysis of Alternative Components and Sub-Components The Alborz Dam, one diversion weir and the major conveyance and distribution canals are already under construction. This means that the Irrigation and Drainage Component will be implemented by GOI with or without the project.

In connection to the dam construction 6 villages will be inundated, while inhabitants of 7 other villages will be resettled. Land acquisition includes 400 ha of forestry land in the middle lands and 1000 ha of agricultural land for constructing canals, drainage and access roads. These acquisitions are currently being addressed by the government and further policy frameworks and action plans are being developed under the project in compliance with the resettlement safeguard policy OP 4.12.

The five components of the AILWMP (1. Upper Catchment and Forestry Management; 2. Irrigation and Drainage Component; 3. Integrated Basin Water Management; 4. Environmental and Social Management Plan; and 5. Project Co-ordination and Implementation Support) are designed to minimise negative impacts of the Dam and Irrigation Network Projects by contributing to integrated, sustainable management of natural resources and minimisation of negative environmental impacts from the project.

6.1.1 Without Project Alternative The Alborz Dam, one diversion weir and major conveyance and distribution canals are already under construction by the GOI. Even without the AILWMP, these construction projects will be completed and put into operation by the GOI. The AILWMP is hence designed to complement the ongoing construction projects of the GOI, contribute to a more integrated and sustainable management of water and other natural resources in the entire watershed, and minimize the potential negative environmental impacts of the ongoing construction projects. I Were the project not to go ahead, the following outcomes are envisaged:

* Without the Irrigationand DrainageNetwork Component, the infrastructure for the irrigation and drainage network would still be implemented through the GOI, but the formation of WUA would be slower, less significant and with much less institutional support and capacity building. 3 Hence, the capacity of WUA for managing water resources sustainably would be considerably

6-1 I 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ l

3 lower. Grassroots activities for improved water use and control would not be supported leading to less optimal water use. Also, without the AILWMP, capacity building in agricultural extension services would be considerably less.

* Without the Integrated Water Resource Management Component, there would be no basin- wide coordination of water resources management in the project area. The lack of coordination f could potentially have serious consequences for the environment in general and for the efficient allocation of water resources among farmers and other users in particular. Without the institutional support to the operation of the Alborz Dam and Reservoir through the establishment of a I hydrometric network and hydrometric modeling and to the BWC, the GOI investment in the Al- borz Dam would result in lower economic and environmental returns. In addition, without establishment of the BWMF, there would be fewer opportunities for establishing community- I based income generating activities for stakeholders in the project area.

* Without the Environmental and Social Management Component, data for water quality moni- I toring (rivers, ab-bandans, groundwater), and water quantity would not necessarily be available to stakeholders and used by all institutions involved in water resources management. Duplica- tion of data collection efforts and overlapping activities would continue while data sharing I would still be insufficient. The implementation of the currently existing IPM program in Ma- zandaran Province would only cover the rehabilitated irrigation areas. The outreach of the program would expand at a slow pace and not be expanded to adequately encompass the newly de- | veloped irrigation areas. Without the AILWMP, social issues would not be integrated into other components of the management plan.

6.1.2 With Partial Project Alternative Were the AILWMP to only include activities in the middle and lower areas, i.e. were it to go ahead without the Upper Watershed and ForestManagement Component, forest and rangeland rehabilitation would not keep up with uncontrolled ongoing deforestation and take place at a considerably slower pace as under the AILWMP. In addition, the overall degradation of the upper watershed would further increase due to continued population pressure and uncontrolled encroachment on the forests, especially in areas which currently are still intact. Forest and watershed degradation would foster erosion, loss of topsoil and accelerated siltation of water protection structures and the Alborz Dam itself. Further forest and rangeland degradation would eventually also result in loss of biodi- I versity. Finally, without the AILWMP, the participation of forest dwellers in planning of natural resource management in the upper watershed would remain at insufficient levels as no new ap- * proaches to community forest management and institutional arrangements would be introduced.

6.1.3 With Project Alternative 3 With the project, a holistic and integrated catchment management approach will be introduced. The integrated basin approach to catchment management planning and the institutionalisation of a multi- stakeholder Basin-wide Committee represent a pilot project in Iran in this regard, and a first oppor- I tunity to test modalities for coordinated efforts to manage natural resources in general, and water resources in particular, in an integrated way. In many ways, the difficulties experienced with past investments in Iran have arisen because the institutional and financial designs of projects did not I adequately follow the three principles of integrated water resources management, namely:

6-2 I 9/16/2004 l

* The ecological principle, which argues that land and water in a river basin needs to be managed holistically to protect the environment. * The institutional principle, which argues that water resources management is best carried out when managed at the lowest appropriate level with the participation of all stakeholders; and * The instrument principle, which argues that water is a scarce resource, and needs to be managed as an economic good through the design of appropriate incentives that improve allocation and enhance quality.

For instance, pricing of irrigation water does not generate incentives for resource conservation. Wa- ter allocations between the OMCs and urban water utilities do not meet any 'market' test, enforcement of pollution standards has been virtually non existent, and the governmental capacity to protect upper watersheds from unsustainable exploitation by herders and loggers have been weak. Sub- components such as those on tree planting, integrated pest management, the basin water management fund, income generating activities and participatory planning will lead to comprehensive benefits for all stakeholders in the project area while leading to more sustainable management of the natural resources and, in some instances, protection of the environment.

In addition to the positive benefits arising from the various project components described above, implementation of the full AILWMP as currently designed will allow a holistic watershed management approach to be introduced to Iran that is fully consistent with all of the above principles, in- corporating a basin-wide perspective to watershed planning and management and the institutionali- zation of the multi-stakeholder BWC. Iranian water concerns suggests that there is tremendous scope for improving productivity of water use in agriculture by pricing and institutional reforms. Unless these measures are taken immediately, unsustainable water use could seriously constrain Iran's competitiveness in the global economy, thereby constraining future economic growth.

The project will enable water resources in the Alborz river basin to be managed in a sustainable manner and will lead to improved water use efficiency and increased productivity in the irrigated areas. Improving forest, catchment, and livestock management in the catchment area of the Alborz Dam will reduce the siltation of the reservoir, while improving irrigation infrastructure and operation in downstream will benefit all stakeholders in rural and urban areas. By including users through farm-level Water Users Associations (WUAs), sub-basin level catchment management / forest cooperatives, and an apex Basin Water Committee (BWC), the project supports decision-making on water resources management at the lowest appropriate levels. A comprehensive river basin development approach will facilitate solutions to basin-level water allocation and water quality problems, which will eventually lead to better natural resource management and conservation.

6.2 Project Alternatives

6.2.1 Dam and Irrigation and Drainage Network The location of development and rehabilitation areas for irrigation and drainage provides several suitable options, but the location and project specific alternatives for the irrigation network and for the dam are not under consideration here. These have been addressed in the previous EIA, prepared by Mahab Ghodss for GOI (see CD-ROM in Annex). The detailed design work during the project

6-3 9/16/2004 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ l

implementation will provide the most suitable alignment of the canals, in consultation with the stakeholders.

6.2.2 Inclusion of Fish Farming During project preparation, it was suggested that the project should support aquaculture, or fish farming, in ab-bandans and an analysis of the potentials were initiated. In spite of considerable potential for income generation, fish farming has several potential negative impacts, including nutrient pollution of surface waters. This alternative is therefore not recommended for the project. Small- scale fish farming could, however, be considered for support under the Basin Water Fund, on the condition that possible negative environmental impacts are addressed in a satisfactory manner.

6.2.3 Water Use Scenarios The Alborz Dam will inevitably result in major changes in the water flow regime in the project area. Without the project, seasonal flows in the Babolrood will change dramatically, with higher flows in summer, where the river has in the past nearly dried out, while winter flows will be less than in the past due to storage in the reservoir. The project will increase surface water supply for the irrigation period in summer using the stored water during the winter flooding period.

While the Alborz Dam, the Ganj-Afrooz diversion weir, and the MC conveyance canal are under construction by the GOI, the AILWMP will conduct studies on (i) water balance, (ii) river ecological flow requirements, and (iii) optimized reservoir operation. The results of these studies will be reflected in the final design of the irrigation network system and the operational rules.

A preliminary reservoir simulation study based on 38 years water flow data has revealed the following results:

I l I

6-4 I 9/16/2004 l l l Table 6-2 Compensation Flow Description Quantity Comment (mcm/year) Inflow to Alborz Reservoir 215 Mean, including Babolak diversion Reservoir gross capacity 150 Reservoir dead storage 28 Live storage capacity 122 Inflows from middle basin 48 i.e. inflow downstream of dam Agricultural demands 195 Representing maximum demands for mainly * irrigated cropping. If other cropping patterns are applied (e.g. high value, but less water demand- |______ing crops) the agricultural demands will be less. Water required for environment 32 Equivalent to lm 3/s compensation flow for migrating fish Spill 46 Return flow from irrigation Average annual deficiency of water mcm/year implying a deficit in 17 of 38 years and a deficit with compensation flow for spawning -5.8% of more than 10% of demand in over 20% of the

I Average annual suMlus of water with- year out compensation flow for fish migra- = +10% 3 ~~~~~tion.

The above illustrates that a permanent compensation flow for fish spawning of lm3/s (equal to 32mcm/year) will imply an average annual deficit of 1 lmcm of the agricultural demands are to be met. Without the compensation flow there will be a surplus of water of 21mcm/year. However, this may be a bit speculative and a more detailed analysis of water resources utilisation is highly required - and under preparation by Mahab Ghodss.

It should be considered to which extent Babol River could be rehabilitated for fish spawning. At the moment, fish spawning is hindered by obstacles (weirs, bridges and dams) during the time of migration upstream for spawning (March-May), where the water table is low and water is also needed for 3 irrigation.

It is also important to consider that the minimum base flow for fish spawning should be accompa- nied by construction of fish steps, or fish passes, at least four sites on the lower parts of the Babol- I rood. The extent to which sturgeon is prepared to "jump" up fish steps must be explored and appropriate designs developed for such interventions.

There is a strong support among regional authorities (for example Mazandaran Fish Research Or- ganisation and MDOE) to change Babol back into a river where in particular the sturgeon is allowed to spawn. The minimum base flow of lm 3/second has been assessed by these authorities as appro- * priate because there will also be additional inflow from tributary streams downstream of the diversion dam indicating a higher flow than just lm3/sec. Sturgeon requires at least lm deep water and

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high turbidity to migrate up a river, which implies a flow of considerably more than lm 3/second depending on the river profile.

The water quality in Babolrood has allegedly improved in recent years due to improvements in industrial waste water control, and water quality in the river will further improve once the planned sewage treatment works for Babol town is implemented. However, the regional authorities need to I justify this, and the water quality requirements for sturgeon must be juxtaposed against current and foreseen water quality parameters.

I 6.3 Justification for the Selected Project Alternative In many ways, the difficulties experienced with past investments in Iran have arisen because the in- | stitutional and financial designs of projects did not adequately follow the three principles of integrated water resources management, namely:

I- * The ecological principle, which argues that land and water in a river basin needs to be managed holistically to protect the environment. * The institutional principle, which argues that WR1VM is best carried out when managed at the I lowest appropriate level with the participation of all stakeholders; and * The instrument principle, which argues that water is a scarce resource, and needs to be managed as an economic good through the design of appropriate incentives that improve allocation and enhance quality.

For instance, pricing of irrigation water does not generate incentives for resource conservation. Wa- I ter allocations between the Operation and Maintenance Companies (OMCs) and urban water utilities do not meet any 'market' test, enforcement of pollution standards has been virtually non existent, and the governmental capacity to protect upper watersheds from unsustainable exploitation by herders and loggers have been weak.

In addition to the positive benefits arising from the various project components described above, I implementation of the full AILWMP as currently designed will allow a holistic watershed management approach to be introduced to Iran that is fully consistent with all of the above principles, in- corporating a basin-wide perspective to watershed planning and management and the institutionali- * zation of the multi-stakeholder BWC. Iranian water concerns suggests that there is tremendous scope for improving productivity of water use in agriculture by pricing and institutional reforms. Unless these measures are taken immediately, unsustainable water use could seriously constrain Iran's competitiveness in the global economy, thereby constraining future economic growth.

* Further detailed "with" and "without" alternatives analysis is provided in Annex H. l

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7 Mitigation: Environmental and Social Management Plan Based on the analyses of project impacts and of project alternatives an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) has been prepared, comprising the following eight sub-components:

(7.1) Forest and Wildlife Mitigation and Monitoring for Environmental Protection (7.2) Water Quality and Quantity Monitoring (7.3) River Ecology Monitoring and Mitigation (7.4) Basin Water Fund (7.5) Pest Management Plan (7.6) Dam Safety Plan (7.7) Resettlement Plan (7.8) Physical Cultural Property

The components will result in targeted monitoring of project (and dam) impacts and include comprehensive capacity building activities for all stakeholders, including government staff (training, seminars, study tours, and workshops) and procurement of equipment (for upgrading of laboratories and environmental monitoring). The capacities of natural resources users and provincial government agencies will be strengthened to take joint and co-ordinated responsibilities for implementing and monitoring and subsequent mitigation measures.

Public participation and disclosure of information will be integrated as an important aspect in all components to ensure dissemination of results and initiatives, and to ensure public awareness and consultation regarding important social and environmental and related matters.

The detailed ESMP table is found below and discussed further in the following sections. I I

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Table 7-1 Summary of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for AIL WMP

Component Reiponsible .Agency Cost (UTSS) Forest Mlonitoring and Mlanagement - Compliance Entorcement Support Staff (3 technicians and 1 biologist) MDOE/FRWO 117,600 Digitalization of forest maps FRWO 50,000 Equipment MDOE/FRWO 11,800 Vehicles MDOE 20,000 Institutional co-ordination MDOE/FRWO 16,800 Training, study tours, workshops, and seminars MDOE/FRWO 157,000 Subtotal 373,200 Wkater Qua3ltr and Quantic, Nloniioring - Compliance Enribrcement Field monitoring and support equipment (incl. O&M) MGRWC/MDOE 823,250 Computer hardware and accessories to interface with current unit MGRWC/MDOE 38,250 Laboratory equipment MGRWC/MDOE 1,089,200 Training MGRWC/MDOE 267,500 Technical assistance MGRWC/MDOE 340,000 Technical assistance for Ab-bandan management MDOE 50,000 Subtotal 2,608,200 Basini %%ater Fund - Screening for Safeguards The Basin Water Fund is an ESMS, detailed in the MINA CDD 250,000 Framework. Mitigation, monitoring and capacity building is recommended by the framework as needed. River EcologN Nlonitorinig and MliLigation (Babolrood minimum base tlo%% i Public awareness campaigns and enforcement of regulations MGRWC/MDOE 150,000 Rehabilitation of Babolrood for fish species (including surgeon) MGRWC/MDOE 150,000 Studies on river modification options MDOE/MGRWC 300,000 Baseline monitoring and reporting on river ecology status MDOE 150,000 Technical assistance for design of monitoring program MDOE 100,000 Training and capacity building MGRWC/MDOE 100,000 Subtotal 950,000 Pest Mlanagement Plan I Strengthening of IPM staff at rural service centre MPPO 178,000 Monitor specific pollutant parameters MPPO 24,000 Technical assistance (national/international) MPPO 40,000 I Implementation of pilot studies MPPO 50,000 Institutional capacity building at all levels of MPPO MPPO 310,000 Set up of monitoring network and database MPPO 40,000 I Competitive grants for innovative concepts in PM MPPO 165,000 Laboratory equipment and supplies MPPO 250,000 Contingencies and misc. MPPO 64,500 Subtotal 1,121,500 Dam Safet-, Plan Panel of Experts (fees, per diem, travel) MGRWC 75,000 Preparation of dam safety plans MGRWC 400,000

7-2 I 9/16/2004 I l

Component Responsible Agency Cost (US$) Re-analysis of seismic risks and seismic risk surveys (national TA) MGRWC 100,000 Periodic safety inspections MGRWC 208,000 I Training of Foremen and Supervisors in health and safety issues MGRWC 40,000 National workshops and seminars on Dam Safety issues MGRWC 80,000 Subtotal 903,000 I Resettlement Instruments Management and Monitoring cost estimate 500,000 |Phsical Cultural Propert Field surveys 50,000 Coniponent Manaagement and Coordination Technical Assistance to all agencies responsible for the ESMP for MGRWC 1,360,000 above listed mitigation, monitoring and capacity building activities. This component will include quality assurance, evaluation and coordination. It will also include an outreach campaign to build awareness through meetings, NGOs, seminars, public hearings, etc. (provisional sum) Total 8,115.900

7.1 Forest and Wildlife Monitoring: Mitigation and Monitoring for Environmental Protection

Mitigation through strengtheningforestdata and management activities

In AILWMP Component 1 (Upper Watershed and Forest Management), forestry planning and conservation efforts will be addressed in a forest master plan. Planning of monitoring and capacity building will also take place during this first phase, as will the preparation of detailed forest management plans for each sub-catchment area in the upper watershed. Already existing plans (available in Farsi) with very detailed maps (scale 1:10.000) covering slope, species and age distribution, as well as 10 year silvicultural and rehabilitation plans need to be digitized and integrated into a GIS based monitoring system that can be used jointly by MGRWC and the FRWO. The digitization of forest maps is an important initial activity in the ESMP component 7.1 - Forest and Wildlife Moni- toring and Management.

Updates of the forestry management plans will be made by the FRWO in cooperation with forest cooperatives. Overall forest management plans will be updated every ten years under the guidance of the FRWO, while it is envisioned that annual updates of work plans will be done through site visits by FRWO staff in close consultation with the involved communities. Updated information will be integrated into a GIS system that is managed by the FRWO and the MGRWC. This form of en- hancing mitigation will ensure compliance with WB safeguards as laid out in the ESMP. The monitoring of forestry implementation activities will be the responsibility of the FRWO.

7-3 I ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~9/16/2004 l I

Reforestation activities will be implemented using indigenous species that are adapted to the climatic and ecological conditions prevailing in the Alborz mountains. The master planning exercise will decide on species composition for forest rehabilitation as well as on nursery establishment and operation that adequately takes genetically suitable species into consideration and focuses on local seed and sapling procurement. It will also address issues of biodiversity protection and establishment and realignment of protected areas. Proposals for protected areas will include concepts for community co-management and sustainable financing.

Forest replanting and implementation monitoring of this activity, will be carried out under AILWMP Component 1, Upper Watershed and ForestryManagement, by FRWO. Only the specific needs for environmental protection training are addressed in this ESMP.

3 Minimizing impacts offorest roads The construction of forest roads, some of which are planned in connection with the project for the management of forests, are likely to have some negative impacts in the form of soil erosion (particularly if poorly designed/constructed and maintained) and, more importantly, through provision of ready access to previously inaccessible forest areas. The master planning exercise in the upper wa- I tershed will help to prioritize (and minimize) road construction proposals and focus road construction exclusively on removing bottlenecks to sustainable forest management. Road construction for other purposes will not take place. Environmental protection compliance monitoring will be coordinated between the FRWO and the MGRWC, under the ESMP.

The FRWO is aware of the risks associated with road construction and has developed a number of I environmental mitigation measures for forest road construction that are aimed to minimize environmental impact. Box 7.1 below lists some of these key mitigation measures.

I Box 7.1 EnvironmentalMitigation Measuresfor ForestRoad Construction

* careful planning, placement and design of the roads to avoid erodable or otherwise sensitive areas, avoid ex- 3 treme grades, and to assure that proper hydrological management measures are included to minimize erosion at and downslope of the road. The local forest/watershed cornmunities will participate in the planning, 3 * the prohibition of the use of bulldozers in the construction effort, * trees removed in the road construction belong to the FRWO and cannot be sold or used for any purpose other than determined by the aforementioned department, I * any blasting (if needed in rocky area) will require approval of the FRWO and can only be carried out under its supervision, I * once established the road will be gated and access by vehicles will be controlled. (temporary roads will also be gated). Trucks larger than one ton will require special permit to enter the area, * the same rules apply to temporary roads such as those used for watershed rehabilitation efforts. These roads will be removed after the planned works are completed, and the roadbed will be replanted.

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Improving mitigation for habitats

Although fencing has been carried out extensively in the upper watershed, it is not clear that it is an effective form of environmental protection. The goal is to exclude livestock from the forest areas and allow for natural forest regeneration. Reportedly, some recovery of the vegetation is taking place inside fenced areas. However, fencing of large forest areas only is a costly method for forest regeneration; and it is difficult to ensure the effectiveness of fences if local communities are not in full support of such measures or compensated for potential economic losses resulting from lack of access to pasture areas. Fences are also difficult to supervise, costly to maintain, and pose significant barriers for larger wild mammals, restricting their natural seasonal movements.

The options for fencing will be evaluated during AILWMP Component 1, Upper Watershed and Forestry Management, but it is not envisaged that additional fences will be erected under the pro- j ect.

Wildlife Monitoring

The protection of wildlife in the upper lands is an integrated part of the project, with conservation of the upper forests and habitats addressed through the conservation and sustainable forest management activities of the Upper Watershed and ForestryManagement component. During the monitoring of forest cover, quality notes on the occurrence of larger mammal species will also be recorded, both by rangers and through non-systematic notes made by the technicians who carry out the forest surveys.

A small part of the Abshar-e-Shirgah ProtectedArea lies within the project area. Around the Dam, there is the Lafur ProtectedHunting Area where hunting of certain species is prohibited. In addition, to the west and the east of Lafur ProtectedArea, some additional forests areas of high biodiversity occur that have been proposed by the DOE to be included into the Lafur ProtectedArea.

However, notwithstanding their importance in a regional context, as these areas are not considered to be critical natural habitats of international significance and the project does not convert natural habitats World Bank OP 4.04 is not triggered.

The above-mentioned mitigation and monitoring activities will also involve capacity building and training in the following fields:

* Training for Digitization of existing forestry data: The existing data on forest cover and plans for replanting need to be integrated into a comprehensive database. This system will need to be designed and the staff of both MGRWC and FRWO trained in its use. The database must be an open source available to everybody (e.g., through the internet) and edited by MGRWC/FRWO.

* Strengthening of Data collection: The database and datasheets for the data collection (during monitoring) will have to be developed. The datasheets must be designed so that they are directly comparable. Individual sub-areas (of few hectares) will then be designated and quantifi- able measurements (e.g., approximate cover of species) taken. The data sheets will also have

7-5 I 9/16/2004 5 fields for miscellaneous information (e.g., observations of rare mammals) which is not quantifi- able.

3 * Training for GPS: the staff of MGRWC and FRWO will have to be trained in the use of GPS. This does not just apply to office staff, but also field assistants, as it is essential that they can use the GPS in connection with maps and be able to fill in the datasheets in an efficient and J consistent manner.

* Strengthening of Wildlife monitoring: In addition to non-systematic observation of large | mammal populations during the forest cover and quality monitoring, an efficient monitoring system will have to be designed. This will include the training of 3 rangers (2 technicians and lbiologist), who will study population trends through the project area, both within and without I the no-hunting areas including the lower lands. Technical equipment will include 2 vehicles and binoculars.

I * Training for Field Equipment: Staff carrying out forest and wildlife monitoring will require training in the use of technical equipment as well as identification of the tree species, tracks of the larger species of mammals and practical use of maps, compasses etc.

Strengthening Institutional co-ordination: For the environmental management plan to work successfully, it is important that the co-operation, particularly between FRWO and MGRWC is I as good as possible (otherwise conflicts might arise from different approaches). It is therefore suggested that monthly co-ordination meetings (including dinner) be held for the parties, and that combined field trips are made by the technical staff of both institutions.

Study Tour: A study tour to the nearby Eastern Anatolia Watershed Management Program in Eastern Turkey would be highly beneficial to the officials of the implementing institutions I (MGRWC and FRWO). The executive officials of MGRWC and FRWO, as well as the technicians/environmental engineers/biologists, should participate with the intent that this experience g would serve as a source inspiration for a successful implementation of the AILWMP.

The detailed implementation plan is found in the Table 7-2 below. I

7-6 9/16/2004 - m - m - - - - m m mm

7-7 Table 7.2 Implementation planfor Forest and wildlife ESMP activities

Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Mitigation/EnhancementMeasure Lack of coordinated forestry data sets Digitize and integrate forest maps into GIS system MOJA Phase I (Inception) - 50,000 YR 1,3,5 & 7 Requirement for planned forest manage- Create detailed forest management plan for each sub-catchmcnt MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) No incremental costs (incor- ment activities area in upper watershed ...... -- ...... - _ - ...._ _...... - ...... -.._ ._.._ - ...... _...... -- __ ... _. _ porated- elsewhere) Lack of local consultation/participation in Consultation with communities as part of community-based MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) & As above planning process forestry management program Phase 11 (Implementa-

.._ ____.__ ...... _. _ ...... _ ...... ______.__...... __...... _. tio n ) Forest degradation Forest replanting of indigenous species adapted to climate and MGRWC/FRWO Phase 11 (Implementa- As above

______~~~~ecological conditions of site ______...... ec olo...... _tin of sit ._._...... ------. tion) ...... _. ___ _. ___._...... _ Decrease in ecologically significant species Creation of hunting controlled area near dam MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) As above l As above Strengthen management of legally designated protected areas MGRWC/FRWO Phase 11 (Implementa- As above

_ _~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ...... _._.__.__ ...... _...... _...... __.... _.___...... -.. _ - __ .-...... tion______As above Consolidate and strengthen current protected area system MGRWC/FRWO Phase 11 (Implementa- As above

_ _ _ - - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-~~~~t ...... ___...... _...... --...... __...... ------.------...... i n. - _-. -. .-----.------Illegal logging and encroachment associated Prioritize road construction proposals exclusively designed to MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Construction) As above with road construction remove bottlenecks to sustainable forest management. Avoid- ance of erosion-prone and ecologically sensitive areas Monitoring Limited monitoring capacity of Provision of Support Staff (3 technicians and I biologist): MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (inception) 117,600 MGRWC/FRWO > Mitigation activities (described above) > Monitoring forest cover > Monitoring of wildlife biodiversity; > Monitoring designated protected areas; > Compliance monitoring of road design and construction; > Monitoring of WB environmental safeguards compliance ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~...... _._...... _...... _._...... _ Lack of equipment Provision of Equipment and Vehicles MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) 31,800 Capacity Building l- - m ur ------

7-8 Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Lack of trained staff to carry out technical Workshops, seminars and training: MGRWCIFRWO Phase I (Inception) & 157,000 activities > Training for the digitalization of forest cover and mgmt Phase 11 (Implementa- plan database; tion) > Provide for professional staff to strengthen M&E activities of the DOE and FRWO; > GPS training; > Training for correct wildlife and forest cover monitoring (technical and biological) > Study tour of the Eastern Anatolia Watershed Mgmt Pro- gram in Eastern Turkey for implementing officials;

_ Provision of equipment and vehicles; Lack of coordination between FWRO and Strengthening institutional coordination between the FWRO and MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) & 16,800 MGRWC DOE: Phase 11 (Implementa- > Promote joint supervision of new M&E system; tion) > Integration of data collection and evaluation systems, such as GIS; > Monthly coordination meetings between MGRWC and l ______FRW O l Subtotal 373,200

Monitornng of forest cover and quality will be included in the AILWMP Upper watershed and ForestManagement component. I l

7.2 Water Quality and Quantity Monitoring Various institutions analyze water quality in Mazandaran Province, and there is a need to improve I inter-agency cooperation and results sharing among the different agencies involved in water management and allocation.

| In order to reduce current overlaps in monitoring and ensure more efficient monitoring implementation, data sharing, and use of monitoring results, a Joint Water Quality MonitoringProgram is presented below to be coordinated between all relevant institutions in Mazandaran. A detailed imple- I mentation plan will be formulated during the inception phase of the AILWMP that specifies the responsibilities of the three different agencies, DOE, MGRWC and the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (DOFA) to be involved in the water quality monitoring program in Mazandaran. A proposed organization and responsibility structure is presented in the figure below. l Basin W\'ide

Committee Ensironmenial

Mtanagengent Lirii

11 ~~Compliance F/tf' I orldEsliz I~~~~~~~~~~~IOliloniloring

Dischargc River Sedimentl X ~~~~~~~~Efnuentl|a nd Fish l n ltl~~~~~~Nonitoring I Sainplin I e . .t ~~~ ~ ~~ID;E AID/09E l

E~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~NI L[11init

| |l ~~~~~~~~~~SurfaceW\ager || Ground\\Water A||b-bandans MSchemeingtNonitoring Scheme Monitoring Scheme l J .,;,~~~~~~~~'1R,I4 Al0 Ril 4 AIDEOF4

7-9 U 9/16/2004 I

The following stations are proposed as stations for the river monitoring scheme.

p Table 7.3 ProposedStations for the River Monitoring Scheme River Total Number of Stations Description Babol Rood 17 3 existing MRWA stations located within the upper watershed area: one station on each of the 3 main tributaries 3 new stations located within the upper watershed: one new station along each of the three main tributaries down- gradient of all the villages and just before the reservoir 4 new stations located within the agricultural plain 3 existing MRWA stations located within the agricultural plain

4 existing MGRWC stations located within the agricultural I plain Talar Rood 6 1 existing MRWA station located within the upper watershed 2 existing MRWA stations located within the agricultural plains 3 existing MGRWC stations located within the agricultural I plain Siah Rood 2 2 existing MRWA stations located within the agricultural plains

Furthermore, a number of important water quality parameters and indicators are currently not monitored and need to be developed and added to the monitoring program (Table 7.4). During AILWMP I implementation, a Water Quality MonitoringProtocol will be designed that defines a set of primary ecological water quality indicators. These indicators will be based on scientific requirements for en- 1 vironmental monitoring and replace current institution-specific monitoring indicators and efforts. i l I

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I Table 7.4 List ofAnalytical Parametersfor the River Sampling Scheme Parameter In-Situ Meas- Grab Water Sediment Fish Tissue I urements in Samples Sample Sample River Water Water Level/Flow X X I pH X X - - Temperature X X - - Electrical Conductivity/Total Dissolved X X - - I Solid Total Suspended Solid - X - - Turbidity X X - - I Dissolved Oxygen X BOD5 - X - - COD - x I Total Hardness - X - - Alkalinity - X - - Chlorides - X - - I Sulfates - X - - Nitrates - X - - Nitrites - X - - I Calcium - X - - Magnesium - X - - Sodium - X - - I Potassium - X - - Total Phosphates - X - - Total Nitrogen - X - - I Metals (Fe, Mn, Zn, Pb, Cd, Hg, and Ni) - X X X Chromium 3+ and 6+ X X Total Organic Carbon (TOC) - X X - I Oil and Grease - X X - Grain Size Analysis - - X - Acid Volatile Sulfide Content - - X - I Volatile Organic Compounds - - X - Pesticides (Aldrine, Dialdrine, Diazinone, - X X X DDT, Heptachlore, Pyretroides) I PCBs - X X X Bacteriological (Fecal Coliforms and Total - X Coliforms) _* Plankton - X X

I TheWater Quality Monitoring program will be managed by a special Management Information Sys- tems Unit (MIS) established within the Study Department of MGRWC. This departmnent is already responsible for carrying out water resource monitoring program for the entire province. The MIS unit will be responsible for the overall establishment and operation of the Water Quality Monitoring Pro-

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3 gram of the AILWMP. This will include the installation of a computer center and the development of a groundwater model as part of the MIS. A consulting company would be hired to provide TA to establish the computer center, while the MIS surface and groundwater monitoring (sampling and analy- I sis) will be conducted by MGRWC.

The existing sampling and analytical programs of each of the DOE, MGRWC and the DOFA would | be upgraded and integrated into a single system. The laboratories of the DOE and MGRWC would be upgraded to a standard that allows for analyzing and monitoring the required environmental water quality parameters. The laboratory of the DOFA appears to have already the capacity to handle most I of the required parameters required for the ab-bandan monitoring scheme. The responsibility of monitoring pesticide influx will have to be developed when formulating the implementation plan. I Table 7.5 Schedule of Training and Workshop Sessions

Type of Train- Consultant No. of Par- Main Participants No. of No. of ing/ Workshop ticipants Training days per Sessions session I Training on Locals 225 Professionals and techni- 10 3 Sampling Proce- cians from MGRWC, dures MDOFA, and NGOs I Training on Ana- Mainly locals with the 25 Professionals and techni- 1 5 lytical Methods assistance of an inter- cians from MGRWC and & Procedures nationals MDOFA U Training on Op- Mainly locals with the 25 Professionals and techni- 1 5 eration of GC assistance of an inter- cians from MGRWC and and Atomic Ad- nationals MDOFA I sorption Training on Data Locals 50 Professionals and techni- 1 3 Interpretation cians from MGRWC and

I NGOs Training on Op- Mainly locals with the 15 Manager and assistant 1I erational and assistance of an inter- managers of Monitoring I Management of nationals Unit at MRWA, Monitoring Unit MGRWC, and MDOFA Workshops on Mainly local with the 20 Decision Makers on local I I Environmental assistance of an inter- levels (MGRWC, implications nationals MDOFA, MOH, and related to poor MOP), NGOs, and Pro- _* quality fessional Associations

| MDOE is proposed to be responsible for compliance monitoring for environmental protection. In addition to spot-checking of surface and groundwater would also carry out the river sediment and fish tissue sampling program, as well as the discharge effluent scheme. This latter activity may be delegated to MDOFA.

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It is suggested to use the services of international experts/consulting firms to provide technical assistance to their key institutions (MGRWC, MDOFA, and DOE) in: (1) the detailed design of the continuous monitoring system in the river; (2) the preparation of detailed equipment specifications and technical specifications for the establishment of the MIS in accordance with the World Bank procurement requirements; (3) The preparation of the detailed specifications for the laboratory equipment; (4) the review of tender(s) and preparation of recommendations for the selection of the sup- plier(s); (5) supervision of the equipment installation; and (6) preparation and delivery of training and awareness sessions.

MGRWC and MDOFA would implement the monitoring program, and the MDOE which will conduct the compliance monitoring scheme, will report the analytical results to the MIS Unit. The MIS Unit will process the data and enter it into the MIS database.

7.2.1 Ab-bandan Management and Monitoring In some ab-bandans, despite the inadequate data (most samples are from winter), high levels of heavy metals, would suggest direct WQ impacts from agro-chemicals. Biological indicator plants (for example Sparganium negletum) indicate high levels of nitrate and phosphate - presumably also related to high application levels of agro-chemicals. In addition, the absence of water plants and murky water would indicate high levels of nutrients (eutrophication).

With regard to water quality monitoring in ab-bandans, which is currently under the responsibility of the DOE, it is proposed to complement the Water Quality MonitoringProgram with low-tech visual inspection procedures designed for ab-bandans. Such visual inspection will provide reasonably detailed insights into the water quality of ab-bandans. Monitoring personnel will be equipped with handheld GPS and topographical maps. Ab-bandans will be inspected annually (preferably during June to August). Simple questionnaire surveys will be conducted covering topics such as abundance of water plants, visibility, fish cultivation etc. In addition, samples will be taken for simplified chemical analysis, including measuring of N, P, K, dissolved oxygen, etc. Chemical sampling of all ab-bandans will be costly.

Table 7.6 ProposedList of Parametersfor the Ab-bandans

* PH COD NH4+

Electrical Conductivity HCO3 - Cupper 2 Temperature HCO3 - Sodium I Dissolved Oxygen CI- Magnesium Total Suspended Solids (TSS) Sulfate Calcium Pesticides (Aldrine, Dialdrine, Diazinone, Phosphate Zinc I DDT, Heptachlore, Pyretroides) Hardness Nitrate Fe3` Turbidity Nitrite Fe2+

BOD5 Ammonia Potassium

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Collected data will be entered into the GIS allowing for the production of status maps and pattern and trend analyses. The DOE will closely cooperate with the DOFA on the control for fish cultivation in ab-bandans. Responding to current to increase fish cultivation in ab-bandans and the potential threats J to important bird resting and wintering sites, guidelines for improved ab-bandan management with specific focus on bird preservation will be developed as part of the project.

The activities described above are summarized and costed in Table 7-7 below: I l I I I I l I I I I

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Table 7.7 Water Quality Cost Table

Potential Issues/impacts ESMP Response/Activity | Agency Timin Cost Estimate

Mitigation/EnhancementMeasure Lack of inter-agency coordination > Create WQ monitoring program for DOE, MGRWC & DOFA; MGRWC/DOFA Phase I (Incep- 300,000 . Installation of computer center and development of groundwater model; tion) > Development of implementation plan for water quality monitoring program at the following sites: Babolrood (1 7 stations), Talar Rood (6 stations), Siah Rood (2 stations). > Develop WQ parameters and indicators (and add to monitoring activities via ...... _... WQ Monitor ng Protoco l_-.. _ _ __ _ - Pollution of ab-bandans used for fish culti- Ab-bandan water quality improvement - protection of nine, ecologically sensitive ab- MGRWC Duration of Pro- 40,000 vation and/or valued ecological habitats bandans (Ramnat, Aghaz-benm, Langur, Azizak, Rooshandan, Esmaeeil-Kola, Anar- ject mnarz, Zarin, Larini-Kola):

' Control of permissions for fish cultivation; ' Development of guidelines for improved ab-bandan management, with specific focus on bird preservation; Monitoring Limited monitoring capacity of DOE, > Establish Management Information Systems Unit (MIS) under MGRWC; MGRWC Phase I (Incep- 1,950,700 MGRWC, and DOFA > Field monitoring and support equipment (incl. O&M); tion) & Phase II > Computer hardware and accessories to interface with current unit; (Operation) > Integration of existing sampling and analytical programs of DOE, MGRWC and DOFA into a single system;

______. ______~~ Upgrade of DOE and MGRWC_laboratories;__ Pollution of ab-bandans used for fish culti- Ab-bandan monitoring: (surface water and fish sampling) MGRWC Annually (pref- 50,000 vation and/or valued ecological habitats > Visual inspection monitoring with GPS and topographical maps; erably June to > Fauna and flora monitoring; August) ' Simple chemical analysis (N, P, K, dissolved 02 etc); . Production of status maps and patter and trend analyses using GIS; Lack of baseline river flow data in project > Hydrological monitoring (water quantity) as part of AILWMP Component 3 MGRWC Monthly Cost included in area (particularly Babol River) (Integrated Water Resources Management) AILWMP Compo- ...... ---- -...... _._...._...... ne nt.3 ...... 7-15 9/16/2004 - mi mnin i m m m

Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity A ec Timin Cost Estimate Capacity Building Lack of inter-agency cooperation and > GPS and WQ Training; MGRWC Phase I (Incep- 267,500 results sharing: > Installation of computer center; tion) & Phase 11 (Implementation) Subtotal 2,608,200

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7.3 River Ecology Monitoring and Mitigation The Babol River (Babolrood) is one of nine major rivers in Iran draining into the Caspian Sea. It is N representative for northern Iran in many respects including the types of existing water resource management structures, degradation and other environmental issues and problems in water resources management. Hence, the Babol River is well suited to serve as an important pilot for the restoration I of freshwater ecosystems in northern Iran. The given environment is well suited to address water resource management issues in a comprehensive, participatory and cost effective manner.

3 Under Component 2 of AILWMP (Integrated Watershed Management) it is proposed to establish a hydrometric network on Babol River, which will provide the necessary baseline quantitative data required to for optimization of releases from the dam, that will take irrigation requirements as well as I environmental requirements into consideration. A specific objective for the maintenance of a sustainable environmental flow regime in the Babol River is the preservation and rehabilitation of fish habitats and population, including sturgeon and other warm water species. Specifically, environmental I management of the Babol River will aim at the return of natural habitats and fish life to the area from Chare Village to the Caspian Sea (about 5 kilometers downstream of the Ganj-Afrooz). As the spawning season of the sturgeon extends from mid March to May, there is generally no conflict with the U main irrigation season during the summer months. It has been proposed by the regional authorities in Mazandaran to maintain a minimum base flow of lm 3/sec in the Baborood; and whether this is sufficient or not to significantly improve the ecological conditions in the Babolrood and even to attract the return of other fish species will have to be monitored closely.

Changes in river ecology will need to be monitored closely and a flexible approach to the minimum i| environmental base flow would be adopted to achieve the desired goal (return of sturgeon). It is suggested here that the minimum baseflow lm 3/sec is tried the first 1-2 years and that the impacts of the minimum flow are closely monitored. Based on evaluation of the impacts on the river ecology in general, recommendations would be developed regarding the need to maintain, scale up or scale down the minimum flow (also considering ecological water demand in different seasons, as discussed earlier in this report). In the evaluation, the environmental impact of the minimum flow should be juxta- I posed against the scenario where the water is used for agricultural purposes. Similarly, scenarios would be developed for a possible higher minimum flow of the Babolrood and possible removal of obstacles. The sub-component will include the following activities:

- A study of the channel morphology and water flow and quality and assessment of feasibility of modifying Babolrood and recommendations and cost estimates.

- Technical assistance for design of river ecology monitoring and river modifications

3 - River ecology monitoring (algae, macrophytes, fish population, and basic WQ at the time of sampling) and preparation of reports for BWC on the impact of the lm 3/sec base flow.

| - Feasibility of modification of physical barriers (fish ladders) for fish following the recommendations of the above study

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3 More questions rise than will be assessed in a study on river ecology and fish life to be supplement the simple baseline information.

3 Some claim that sturgeons enter the rivers in Northern Iran both in spring and autumn (this could be because two or more species are involved). The successful growth and return of fingerlings depend on water quality and unhindered passage of the fish. These aspects will be investigated further. The rub- 3 ber dam at Babolsar at the mouth of the Babolrood, which is inflated in late summer, might not be a problem for the returning fingerlings. It would also be important to know how far upstream of the Babolrood fish are likely to spawn, if they are likely to migrate beyond the diversion weirs this might 3 pose a problem. The activities, responsible institution for implementation and procurement as well as implementation schedule of this sub-component are shown Table 7-8 below.

| The DOFA of MOJA, according to the Law on Operation and Maintenance of Aquaculture in Iran (1995), is responsible for the management of aquaculture and fisheries of in the Caspian Sea. DOFA responsibilities extend inland for about 1 km beyond the estuary of the Babol River. Beyond this 3 point, responsibilities are with the DOE, which is in charge of regulating the management of freshwater fisheries in the river. However, due to the close institutional relationship between the DOFA and DOE, the responsibilities for river management have been transferred to DOFA.

To address the above-mentioned issues the following activities are planned for implementation in this sub-component:

i. Seminars and public awareness campaigns for the local population in Mazandaran on major issues of environmental/ecological river management, also covering the Shilat River Improve- I ment Program. ii. Detailed scientific research on the requirements for sustaining environmental flows in the Ba- bol River. In particular, evaluation of the proposed minimum base flow of Im3 /second and I required depth and turbidity of the different river sections. This will included a study on river morphology, ecology, water flow and quality on rivers where the sturgeon is still found - including a feasibility assessment, recommendations, and cost estimate of rehabilitating the 3 Babol River. It will also include a sub-study on specific fish species occurring and their ecological niches. iii. Awareness building programs on the need for waste water reduction and waste water man- 3 agement in order to improve river water quality issues in the medium term. iv. Research on estuary preparation and small-craft traffic control and management and preparation of an estuary management plan. I v. Action plan to strengthen the enforcement and implementation of existing regulations through municipalities and districts near the main rivers in the project area. Municipalities and districts would be encouraged to implement jointly agreed measures such as garbage reduction and col- I lection from rivers, safe recycling of construction debris, and addressing illegal fish introduction into the river systems. vi. Expansion and upgrading of the department's research stations to strengthen the observation I and monitoring stations along the Babol River. vii. Drafting a river management master plan that includes, among others, proposals for the removal of existing rubber dams and the introduction of fish ladders; action program to improve

7-18 U 9/16/2004 l l 3 aquaculture in order to fishing pressure etc. Technical assistance will be provided for the design of river ecology monitoring and river modifications. 3 Based on evaluation of the impacts on river ecology and on the return of important fish species during the trial period, recommendations will be developed with regard to the appropriate minimum base flow for the long-term. The evaluation will also take the seasonal needs for irrigation water for agricultural purposes into account. The evaluation results will be of use in identifying water management plans for the other major rivers in Iran draining into the Caspian Sea. l I l l l l I I I I' I I

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Table 7-8 Implementation plan for mitigation measures, monitoring and capacity buildingfor the Babol River Sub-Componenlt 7.3

Potential Impact/Issue ESMP Response/Activitv Agency Timning Cost Estimate

Mitigation Enforce existing regulations and change > Seminars and pubic awareness campaigns on major issues of environ- MGRWC/MDOE Phase I (Inception) and 150,000 public attitudes on use of river resources mental/ ecological river management Phase 11 (Implementation) (e.g. pumping for irrigation, gravel extraction in river beds and banks, over- fishing, discharging domestic and industrial waste water, etc)_) . __._ __ _ _._ ...... Conserve aquatic ecology conditions in > Study on river morphology and water flow and quality on other rivers MGRWC Phase I (Inception) - YR 1 300,000 river (including for salmon and sur- and sturgeon; 6 man months geon) > Feasibility study and cost estimates for Babol River; > Detailed scientific research on the requirements for sustaining environ- 3 man months mental flows in the Babol River (morphology, ecology, water flow and quality) - feasibility assessment, recommendations & cost estimate of rehabilitation; > Regulation of minimum environmental base flow; Annual Reports > Recommendations for appropriate minimum base flow as a result of research and monitoring > Research on estuary preparation and leisure/fishing port traffic control and management > Action plan to strengthen the enforcement and implementation of existing regulations (e.g. garbage reduction, recycling; illegal fish introduction) > Strengthen enforcement and implementation of current regulations > Design and implement programs on waste water reduction and management Negative impacts on sturgeon fisheries Studies on river modification options, including economic evaluation of caviar MGRWC Phase I (Inception) 150,000 production.

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Potential Impact/Issue ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing 1 __.__.____~~~~...... _._...... ____....I.... . _...... __ _ CCost o s EEstimate s t m a t I As above Drafting a river basin management master plan to include: DOFA Phase I (Inception) Costs incorporated > Proposal for removal of existing rubber dams; elsewhere > Introduction of fish ladders; Action program.to.mpovauaculture ...... __..... I. _._...... co ....tov...... qucre__ 9 .' Ti _a _...... - ---...... As above Modification of river barriers to sturgeon, following recommendations of MGRWC Phase II (Implementation) Depends on feasi- above study. Possible dredging following recommendations of above study. bility study (not included in project

l______l______.______costs)______costs Monitoring _ Lack of baseline ecological data on Baseline monitoring and reporting on river ecology status (fish populations, MGRWC Quarterly, seasonally or 150,000 Babol River especially indicator species (Sturgeon and Kyte) algae, macrophytes, river annually (depending on profile, benthos and basic WQ) species), starting in Phase I l ______(Inception Capacity Building Lack of technical programme design Technical assistance for design of monitoring program and river modifications MGRWC Phase I (Inception) 100,000 cap _ ...... Lack of suitably technically trained staff Training and capacity building as follows: MGRWC Phase I (Inception) - YR 1- 100,000 * Design, modification and monitoring of river (data extraction, analysis, 2 report preparation - IMS, Databases, GIS based report). * Refresher course for lab staff on limnological analysis, * Seminars and public awareness campaigns on major issues of environ- l ______mental/ecological river management Subtotal 950,000

7-21 9/16/2004 1 7.4 Basin Water Fund: Screening Sub-Projects for Safeguards The Basin Water Fund (BWF), discussed in Section 3.4.3 Component 3: Integrated Water Re- I sources Management, is a small-scale community driven development framework. The BWF aims to support community-driven activities to improve water and land resources management through direct support for pilot activities relating to water, land or forest management proposed by community users groups.

One of the main features of a BWF is its demand-driven approach. The proposed activities from community organizations, such as WtUAs and forestry cooperatives, will be financed based on pre- determined eligibility criteria. The BWC will inform those community groups of the BWF objectives, selection criteria, methods of implementation, and conditions for funding through initial sensi- I tizing programs undertaken by the PIU of the BWC. There will be a screening procedure to ensure the safeguard compliance of all community proposed projects based on the approached described in the Manualfor Safeguard Compliance in Demand-Driven and Community Development Projects in the Middle East and North Africa Region (March 2004).

The BWF will play a complementary role for other specified investment programs under the project, focusing on community-driven activities to improve current natural resource degradation and poverty. The objective of this BWF will be to help reduce poverty while reducing pressure on the natural resources at the same time. This will be achieved through the following specific objectives: I * assist local communities and users groups in conserving, rehabilitating and managing the land and water resource in a sustainable manner through developing appropriate commu- | nity-based institutions and mechanisms; * promote techniques and sound practices for water use efficiency improvement and land / water quality conservation as well as establishing sustainable / high value crop, horticulture and livestock production; * promote income generating activities with improved access to technical, financial and commercial services in order to support community development and reduce the pressure on Land and Water resource exploitation; and * address the environmental concerns in the day-to-day management of resources and maintain sustainable environmental criteria while planning and undertaking development activities

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7.5 Pest Management Plan Compliance with the World Bank safeguard requirements complements the recent policy change in Iran with respect to pest management that, apart form changing the input supply system, requires efforts to (i) reduce chemical control; (ii) expand non-chemical control; (iii) promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM); and (iv) phase out hazardous pesticides. The detailed Pest Management Plan is attached (Annex D). I Overall Objectives of the Pest Management Plan

The baseline and impact assessment chapters of the ESA have clearly revealed that reduction in the use of pesticides and agrochemicals is highly necessary to reduce the potential negative impacts from intensified agriculture in an expanded area under irrigation. In response to this impact, a pest | management plan has been prepared and is attached as Annex D of this report.

Table 7-9 Components and Costs of Pesticides and Chemical Fertilizers

Parameter Monitoring Testing No.of Test Fre- Time of Responsibl Responsible Cost Parameter Subject Methodology Sampling quency Sampling for Moni- for Supervi- (3) toig sin( ) Fom The Water (l) 1 Standard First year MGWA MDOE 4200 Water(1) Method () Saoay till the 7TH 00

______~~~year 250 Tests 2000 l . . Crop (2) ASTM in whole Annually -do- MJAA MOH 00 Pesticides area During Pesti- I Human Kolin Strose 20 Persons side Use -do- MHA MOH 1000 Health Test-WHO Randomly (Min.2 times in 00 the year) U Kolin Strose Animal TestrO 20 Ran- Once in 6 3500 Health Test-WHO do-l ots-do- MVA MOJA Health Fat Tissue domly Months 0 Nitrate Test Fertilizer Water Nitrite Test (4) Seasonaly -do- MGWA MDOE 3665 Phosphate 00 ______T est _h_ N * Standard Methods for the Examination of water and wastewater 20t ed. or up (for N03 & P04) 1- Methodology for Pestiside Monitoring is given in the section Water Monitoring of ESMP report. I 2- Rice to be selected since it is dominan crop in the project area. The sample is to taken from the rice leaf. 3- The Monitorong Cost comprises: Sampling, Test and Supervision on sampling.

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4- Please refer to section: ESMP- Surface and Ground Water Monitoring. In first year the sample is to be taken from the Pilot area, in case of considerable changes are observed, then sampling points are expanded over the entire area. | Currently a pest management program implemented by the Plant Protection Office (PPO) of MOJA in Mazandaran has promoted biological pest control for some years, and introduced IPM all over the province, including on 28,000ha of the project area. However, a more comprehensive effort is re- | quired to mitigate the potential negative impacts of the AILWMP and therefore a pest management plan has been prepared.

Table 7-10 Mitigation of Environmental Impacts of Pesticide and Fertilizers

Parameters Mitigation l Optimum use and Prevention of Excessive use Replacement of Pesticides with less effect pesticides Pesticides * Use of Biological and Mechanical Methods Use of reformed seeds and resistant to Pests Farmers Training to how use the Pesticide adequately I Farmers Health Test Periodicaly Farmners Health Use of personal safety facilities * ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Useof less dangerous pesticides to human Farmers Training Fertilizer Use of adequate pesticides according to experts advisory Use of Pesticides with adequate quality or Organic pesticides( if possible) *Pesticides here comprises to all type of chemicals which are used against pests as: Fungicides, Herbicides and Pesticides and with different type of, Chloride, Phosphate, Carbamite

The plan includes strengthening of the presence of IPM staff at rural service centre level in the project area as well as institutional capacity development at all levels of the PPO of MOJA in Mazan- daran. These rural-based staff will strengthen the implementation of the Farmer Field School approach and be able to provide technical advice and support directly to farmers much more effectively than at present. With the overall institutional support (including training and equipment) it is anticipated that biological pest control and environmental awareness of farmers will increase con- | siderably.

Analysis of the current situation in terms of pesticide management at national and provincial levels have revealed a number of key issues that need to be addressed to reach the desired impacts of re- I ducing pesticide use to a minimum. In terms of the specific requirements in Mazandaran, the following issues have been identified in collaboration with the provincial PPO for support to pest 3 management:

i. Use of international experts for IPPPM set up in the Province of Mazandaran (project area)

7-24 I 9/16/2004 ii. Farmer Field School (FFS) training in the framework of IPPPM using public and private sector specialists

iii. NGO technical, equipment and financial support for IPM set up in project area

iv. Provision of technical personnel to strengthen implementation and monitoring networks in the project area (at rural service centers)

v. Provision of transport support (a major constraint for current IPM program) and equipment I lab equipment and spore-traps for early warning).

vi. Biological control has been the core of integrated management of rice, citrus, cotton and U Soya bean pests in Mazandaran with significant achievements. However, in lab rearing of the natural control agents maternal bases, efficient species identification, rearing methods, mass release and natural host rearing activities are not carried out as scientifically-based as could | be desired. In this connection a training course in a country with highly advanced biological control and experienced personnel seems quite necessary.

| vii. There has been no assessment of the impact of the IPM program and other control methods or comparative studies have been carried out yet. Pilot studies in Mazandaran (in the project area) on the effectiveness of non-chemical control methods and their development in the future years are suggested.

In addition to the above activities, a number of internal staff capacity building activities are proposed as well as international training courses and study tours, covering subjects like

* integrated control of rice pests, diseases and weeds; | * integrated management of citrus pests, diseases and weeds; * monitoring and early warning networks for pest and disease control; * spraying technologies and equipment for the control of orchard, cultural and greenhouse I crops pests; * methods of rearing Rodalia cardinalis(Icerya purchasi biocontrol agent),Cryptolaemus montrouzierie( Pseudococcus citri biocontrol agent),and Prospaltellafasciataand Prospal- J tella berlesi (Pseudaulaspispentagona biocontrol agent) * laboratory rearing of rice stem borer(Chilo suppressalis)withnatural and artificial feeding, * improved methods of rearing of biocontrol agent of the pest (Trichogramma spp) and most I common methods of release of trichogramma in paddy fields. 7.5.3. Pest management in the project area

The Pest Management Plan includes institutional capacity development at all levels of the PPO of MOJA in Mazandaran as well as strengthening the presence of IPM extension staff at the rural service center level in the project area. Field-based extension staff will strengthen the implementation through on-site training of farmers and provide improved technical advice and support directly to farrners. With the overall institutional support, including training and equipment, under the project,

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biological pest control and environmental awareness among farmers are expected to increase considerably.

The following strategy is envisaged to comply with the OP 4.09 Pest Management and prevent an increase in pesticide use throughout the province after project completion:

(1) Further advance the use of IPM i. Introducing international experiences in IPM by engaging international biological control experts in Mazandaran; I ii. Strengthening Farmer Field School (FFS) training in the framework of IPM by engaging public and private sector specialists to provide training to users; iii. Providing assistance through NGOs, technical equipment, and financial support for I IPM in project area; iv. Providing specific scientific support and training to upgrade applied biological research for IPM, including raising of natural control agents, efficient species identifi- I cation, rearing methods, mass release and natural host rearing activities, etc; v. Implementing pilot studies in the project area in Mazandaran on the effectiveness of non-chemical control methods such as IPM and recommendations on their future * improvement and development;

(2) Strengthen monitoring of sustainablepest control and pesticide application I vi. Support laboratory and field equipment for early detection and warning; vii. Field-based extension staff will strengthen the implementation through on-site training of farmers and provide improved technical advice and support directly to farm- I ers; viii. Training and supervision of traders of pesticides and pest control tools in products safety; I ix. Monitoring of specific pollution parameters, including regular determination of selected pesticide residues in water and in agricultural products as well as monitoring the health of farm workers.

The Pest Management Plan includes institutional capacity development at all levels of the PPO. Implementation of these strategies listed above will include the following actions:

i. Elimination of dangerous chemicals: The purchase of or support to class Ia and class Tb pesticides in the project area will be prohibited, and the use of hazardous chemicals as listed in I the Stockholm Convention will be eliminated prior to project startup; ii. Redesign and improvement in IPM training, including the FSS and other models targeted at farmers and crops in the new irrigation development area will be carried out. For this pur- I pose, a training plan and an implementation plan will be designed by the PPO and local NGOs in the first year of the project with inputs from international expertise. This training plan includes training of trainers programs tentatively designed as

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3 Training (received): i. Foreign study tour of about 10 pest management- and extension staff from Mazanda- ran to review prevalent methods for integrated control of rice pests. These staff will then be appointed to serve as core group to prepare an IPM training manual. ii. Medium-term (foreign/local) training in IPM of rice pests, weeds and diseases, and citrus pests, weeds and diseases of about 8 PPO staff. iii. Long-term (academic) training in bio-control of no more than 2 staff.

A training manual will be prepared and a training schedule will be confirmed and implemented. Tentatively such the training schedule includes:

Training (to be provided) i. All extension staff working at the rural service center level in the project area will be trained in (i) proper storage, transport and application of chemical pesticide, including recognition and prevention of pesticide poisoning, use of protective clothing, and dis- I posal of pesticide and packing materials; ii. All extension staff will also be trained in the principles of IPM and in the various training tools awareness presence of IPM extension staff; iii. Pilot training in IPM using different training methods (including FFS) will be designed and executed in collaboration with non-governmental groups.

Improved Bio-control

During the first year of the project, short-term intemational consulting expertise, from commercial sources, will be recruited to assist in the improvement of identification, production/rearing methods and release/distribution of natural control agents. The international expert will identify and recommend further training needs, especially with respect to Rodalia, Cryptolaemus, Prospaltellaand I Trichogramma spp. as well as cultivation of the rice stemborer (Chilo suppressalis).

Improvement in pest early warning and monitoring

Training and equipment will be provided to improve the monitoring and early warning network for pest and disease control. Equipment will include weather monitoring equipment, diagnostic tools as I well as information dissemination tools. Training of no more than 4 staff of the provincial PPO and extension staff will include pest/disease monitoring, economic threshold determination, risk man- s agement, and information dissemination.

Improvement in monitoring ofpesticide residues and produce and environment

3 The MGRWC analytical toxicology laboratory (as well as the Water Quality Laboratory) in Mazan- daran will be equipped and staff trained to enable regular monitoring of pesticide residues in water and agricultural produce. The Mazandaran Provincial Health, Treatment and Medical Education I Administrations, together with DOE of Mazandaran together with the provincial Environment De- partment will be provided limited support to analyze and report on farm workers poisoning events * on an annual basis.

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Table 7-11 Implementation Plan

Potential Impact/lssues ESMP Response/Action Agency Timing Cost Estimate

- k*e,sl-ulh*,>"s - -xElazt*Xl fI. - =ltu E ht

Capacity Building Lack of knowledge of IPM Introduce worldwide cxperience in IPM through engaging MPPO Years I and 2 40,000 __...... _ __._ .intemational. _ biological control experts in Manzadaran___ . ____ As above Strengthening of IPM staff by expanding Farmer Field School MPPO Years I and 2 178,000 training mode, and by engaging public and private sector specialists * Training of trainers for extension and NGO staff (20 trained) * Participatory IPM training for new farmers in project areas at 4 different sites ~~~~~~...... __...... _.... _...... - ---...... __ _ .- __----._-._. As above Strengthen NGOs promoting sustainable pest management (TA MPPO Years I and 2 165,000 __ __ _-__ ...... d iP men9._ ..... -.-.-...... _ ..... ___ As above Provide scientific support and training to upgrade applied biologi- MPPO Years I and 2 40,000 cal research in context of IPM

> Study visits of Iranian technicians (Public sector) to China for cultivation of biocontrol > Study visits of two Iranian technicians (NGO) to commercial biocontrol producers in Europe ._...... Lack of capacity for monitoring of sustainable Implementation of pilot studies - in the project area - on the ef- MPPO Years I and 2 50,000 pest control and pesticide application fectiveness of non-chemical control methods in the context of IPM, and recommendations on future improvement and main streaming As above Laboratory equipment and supplies for two detection labs (early MPPO Phase I (Inception) 250,000

_ ...... warnin and demo-equipment).- - - -._ .._ ...'...._ ._ ...... _...... _..... -- --- ...... _...... ------As above Field -based extension staff to provide on-site training and techni- MPPO Duration of project 50,000 cal advice to farmers As above Training and supervision of traders of pesticides and pest control MPPO Duration of Project 50,000 tools for product safety Monitoring

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Potential Impact/issues ESMP Response/Action Agency Timing Cost Estimate Requirement to increase monitoring of specific Monitor specific pollutant parameters, including regular determi- MPPO Years I to 4 24,000 pollution parameters, including regular deter- nation of selected pesticide residues in water (100 samples annu- mination of selected pesticide residues in water ally) and agricultural products (200 samples annually) and agriculture products as well as monitoring the health of farm workers _.___. As above Monitoring the health of farm workers Duration of Project 90,000 * Training medical staff in the identification and management of pesticide poisoning * Set up of monitoring network and database (hardware and software).. Contingencies and miscellaneous 184,500 Subtotal 1,121,500

7-29 9/16/2004 l Is 1 7.6 Dam Safety Plan 3 7.6.1 Existing dams and dams under construction

Besides the Alborz Dam, which is currently under construction, three other dams exist within the larger project area of the AILWMP. The Alborz Dam is anticipated to have major impacts on the project area in terms of water supply patterns and dam safety issues. The existing dams of Shiadeh, Sonbol-Roud, and Berenjestonak have much smaller impacts on the project. According to the * World Bank's classification of dams under OP 4.37, the Alborz Dam and the three other dams are categorized as a large dams. l Table 7-12: Overview over dams existing or under construction in the project area

* Dam Type Status Comple- Total Storage Max. Height tion Year Volume (MCM) (m) Alborz Rockfill & Under Con- 2006 150 78 clay core struction Shiadeh Rockfill & In Operation 1999 5 27 clay core Sonbol-Roud Rockfill & In Operation 1996 1.2 18.5 clay core II Berenjestonak Rockfill & In Operation 1994 3.1 25.7

clay core l 7.6.2 Panel of Experts (POE)

The World Bank operational policy OP 4.37 requires that borrower establishes an independent Panel of Experts (POE) for the construction of new dams. The POE should consist of three or more experts acceptable to the Bank. The primary purpose of the POE is to: I (i) Inspect and evaluate the safety status of the existing dam or dam under construction, together with its appurtenances, and its performance history; (ii) Review and evaluate the owners operation and maintenance procedures, and; and I (iii) Provide a written report of findings and recommendations for any remedial work or safety related measures necessary to upgrade the existing dam or dam under construc- 3 tion to an acceptable standard of safety. Due to the significance of the dams in the AILWMP project area in terms of scale of construction, scale of impacts, and active seismic conditions and possible severe flooding impacts on downstream population centres, a Panel of Experts (POE) has been appointed by the Ministry of Energy comprising the following members listed in the table below.

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3 Table 7-13: Overview of Panel of Experts (POE) Members appointed by GOI

Panelists Name Occupation Specialty Dr. Assadollah Noorzad Head of Earthquake Engineering, Civil Seismic design (Chairman) Engineering Departmnent, Tehran Uni- ______versity, Iran Dr. Ali Asgar Nir- Assistant Professor, University of Te- Rock fill dam design, geo- ghasemi hran, Civil Engineering, Iran technical engineering Dr. Mohsen Ghaesmian Assistant Professor, Sharif University Instrumentation, concrete of Technology, Iran structure

Dr. Mohammad Hassan Associate Professor, Iran University of Soil mechanics & em- Baziar Science and Technology, Iran bankment design, geo- technical engineering Eng. Carl Simonsen ACRES Intemational, Canada Hydraulic Structures and construction quality control

The panel members cover the full range of specialties required for a project of this nature. The spe- J cific Terms of Reference (TOR) have been widen to cover the spillway, reservoir slope stability and other safety related issues including operations and maintenance. The TOR additionally include the Sombol-Roud, Shiadeh and Berenjestanak dams, all of which impound flows into the AILWMP area.

The first meeting of the POE was held on 22nd February 2004 at the MOE. Panel member Dr. Noorzad was elected as Chairman and Mr. Simonsen was appointed to take the minutes of panel meetings. The Bank sent its dam specialist consultant, Mr. Christopher Grant from Scott Wilson 3 Piesold, UK as an observer to the POE meeting and site visit.

The POE visited the offices of Mahab Ghodss in Tehran on February 23-24, 2004, which designed the Alborz Dam and is also supervising the construction works. The purpose of the visit was to in- I spect and obtain the technical information and reports relating to the project including: site investigation and material testing reports, seismic risk assessment and analysis, embankment and foundation design report, hydrology and flood routing studies, hydraulic model study reports, design report I for the spillway and bottom outlets, reservoir slope stability studies, basic project drawings, and the design report for the Babolak diversion.

3 A site visit to all four dams (Alborz, Shiadeh, Sonbol Roud and Berenjestonak) in Mazandran Prov- ince was undertaken on February 25-26, 2004. Further meetings were held with staff from the MGRWC, Mahab Ghodds, the designer and construction supervisor, and Sabir, the construction contractor.

7.6.3 Main Findings and Recommendations

The POE submitted its report to the Ministry of Energy on February 29, 2004. The POE believes that the design of the Alborz Dam is well conceived and complies with the current international

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standards. It also found that the three existing dams have no anomalies and are generally well maintained. 3 Alborz Dam under construction

The POE provided specific dam-safety related issues and recommendations from the viewpoints of S (i) planning, survey and studies, design, construction supervision and quality control; (ii) instrumentation plan; (iii) operation and maintenance plan; and (iv) emergency preparedness plan as follows:

3 * Flood Hydrology. The POE is concerned with the methodology used to determine the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF). It is recommended that a deterministic approach using the maximiza- tion of historic storms is used in line with international practice. * Spillway Under Drainage. The lack of an under drainage system beneath the spillway stilling basin is of concern. Since this structure has not yet been constructed, the POE recommends a review and possible modification of its design. I * Dam Break Analysis. A study should be undertaken to identify the area of inundation that would result from a catastrophic failure of the dam. Based on this study an emergency evacua- tion and warning plan should be developed. * Babolak Weir Stilling Basin. The POE was concerned to note that weep holes are to be provided through the invert of the stilling basin. This detail will transmit fluctuating stilling basin pressures into the foundation. The POE recommends that this detail is revised. I * Reservoir Slope Stability. The POE recommends that further analysis should be undertaken using the saturated rock strength under conditions of impounding and rapid draw down, particularly for zones which are close to the dam body and appurtenant structures. * Survey Bench Marks. To assist with the monitoring of reservoir side slopes the POE recommends the provision of survey bench marks. * Drainage Curtain. The drainage curtain downstream of the foundation grout curtain can be I equipped with instrumentation to monitor uplift pressures and flow rates. * Fault Rupture Hazard. The POE notes the proximity of a fault near the dam site and recommends that a fault rupture hazard analysis should be conducted to assess the risk of propagation I to the dam site. * Seismic Hazard Analysis. The POE recommends that the seismic hazard analysis (including time history acceleration and response spectra) should be revised to take account of near source effects. * Dynamic Analysis. A dynamic analysis is recommended to investigate stress and strain behaviour within the dam during an earthquake. I * Shell Zone Grading. The POE notes that the gradation curve of shell and core materials must be regularly controlled, especially if the fines in shell cause the permeability of the shell to reduce. It may cause a problem during drawdown. I * Instrument Reading Frequency. The POE advocates that instrument readings should be followed during construction and impoundment based on the recommended table. I

7-32 9/16/2004 I' Shiadeh, Sonbol-Roud, and Berenjestonak Dams Under Operation

Regarding the three operating dams, the POE discussed operation and maintenance and safety in- | spection aspects with the MGRWC. During the visit, minor repair works were in progress at all three of the existing dams. The following observations were made:

* Shiadeh. Instruments in the Shiadeh dam are located at four different sections along the dam axis. There was a land sliding that occurred in the left bank at the downstream side. It is currently stabilized by the installation of a drainage system and the placement of sandy gravel fill. At the toe of the backfill, a retaining wall has been constructed. It seems that the dam is in good shape and there is no indication of abnormal behaviour. * Sombol-Roud. Repair works were also in progress to the spillway apron slab which was being I extended to reduce seepage through the left hand dam abutment. There are about 16 piezometers and observation wells on the downstream and left bank. The visual inspection and readings of instruments show no indication of anomalies. I * Berenjestonak. The visual inspection and readings of instruments showed no indication of anomalies. There was a landslide on the left bank at the upstream side of the dam axis. The landslide occurred after the first impoundment as a result of rapid drawdown of the reservoir. J The slope is being stabilized using sandy gravel backfill with the upstream protection of riprap material.

It is advisable to conduct detailed dam safety inspections and develop detailed O&M plans by the end of 2006 under the project. Necessary dam safety measures and remedial works will be financed by the MOE and MGRWC.

7.6.4 Dam Safety Action Plan

It was agreed that the MGRWC will carry out the following actions listed below based on the POE's recommendations. These items are budgeted, scheduled and incorporated into the EMSP to be funded under the project. It was also agreed that the MOE/MGRWC will provide funds for unex- I pected rehabilitation works if such works become necessary based on additional studies and surveys. The recommended studies, surveys, and analyses will be reviewed by the POE's members in charge of those subjects and sent for review to the World Bank.

PeriodicPOE Meetings

The MOE will maintain the POE and hold meetings periodically. The timing of these will approximately be as follows:

l Table 7-14: Tentative schedule of POE meetings Date Project Activity * January 2005 Commencement of Babolak diversion works.

- January 2006 Closure of Diversion Tunnel No 1. September 2006 Completion of dam construction and commencement of impounding.

7-33 9/16/2004 | It was agreed that an additional visit of POE members to the sites should be provided for. The POE program during the O&M phases will be determined later based on the completion of the O&M plan and other technical assistance studies and capacity building programs. It is assumed that each site I visit, panel meeting and report preparation program will require 5 days of input from each panel member, with an additional 4 days of travel time for the international expert. Besides, the POE will be requested to review documents, if necessarily called, as the recommended survey and studies J make progress. g Construction Supervision and Quality Assurance The design of the drainage system beneath the spillway stilling basin of the Alborz Main Dam as well as the weep holes of the stilling basin of the Babolak diversion weir will be reviewed and the I design revised accordingly. Quality control for the shell zone grading will need to be improved as well in order to reduce the mix of fine materials. The design works of those stilling basins of both the main dam and Babolak weir as well as the improved quality assurance plan for shell zone grad- I ing of the Alborz embankment body will be submitted by December 31, 2004.

Instrumentation

The drainage curtain downstream of the foundation grout curtain of the Alborz Dam will have to be equipped with proper instrumentation to monitor uplift pressures and flow rates. Survey bench I marks should be established for monitoring the stability of reservoir side slopes, particularly for potentially unstable zones close to the dam which may be identified from additional studies using saturated rock strength.

The reading frequency of dam instrumentation during construction, impounding, and operation and maintenance periods for the Alborz Dam needs to be specified. Instrumentation reading frequency I will be specified in the detailed O&M plan which will be developed before the first impoundment takes place.

The instrumentation equipment of the three existing dams will be reviewed and updated based on the detailed dam safety inspection and O&M plans to be prepared by the end of 2006. 3 Technical Studies and Survey a Additional technical studies and surveys for the Alborz Dam include:

(i) Flood hydrology for re-evaluating the size of the probable maximum flood;

3| (ii) Dam break analysis to be fed into the EPP; a (iii) Reservoir slope stability analysis considering the saturated rock strength; (iv) Fault rupture hazard study; and l 7-34 * 9/16/2004 I l 3 (v) Seismic hazard analysis of the embankment body using dynamic analysis will be conducted by June 30, 2005. 3 In particular, the seismic study for the Alborz Dam needs to be conducted under the guidance of the POE earthquake specialist and with additional consultancy services, given the high seismic activities in the region. The results of the analysis will be reflected in the EPP and, if warranted, in the 5 design and construction work.

Operation and Maintenance

A detailed Operation and Maintenance Plan for Alborz Dam will be prepared before the first impoundment takes place. In addition, a risk analysis will be conducted to check the security level against the construction plan that two diversion tunnels will be closed before the dam and spillway are completed. During the first 2 years of the project, a detailed operation plan for optimizing the reservoir release linked to hydrological monitoring will be developed under the component 3 of the project. Consultancy support and workshops for MGRWC will be provided under the project in order to ensure adequate O&M, dam safety inspection, and staff training. The project will also provide support for carrying out detailed safety inspection and preparing the O&M plans for the three existing dams.

In addition, it was agreed that the MOE /MGRWC provide an additional budget to conduct detailed safety surveys and analysis and provide mitigation measures (including rehabilitation of dams body and other structures) for the Alborz Dam and the three other existing dams if the recommended studies, survey, and inspection find safety related problems.

Emergency PreparednessPlan, Disseminationand Training

The EPP will be prepared based on the broad framework plan (which has been prepared), a dam break analysis, and other surveys before the first impoundment takes place. The EPP will be widely | disseminated among the downstream inhabitants through public awareness campaigns. Emergency response training will be provided for operation staff and representatives of the cities and villages. EPP preparation, dissemination and training will be coordinated with the provincial office of the I Ministry of Interior and other concerned authorities. Reservoir Optimization Operation

The Alborz Dam, through the flow regulation it provides, plays a key role in increasing water availability for irrigation. Dam height and storage volume designs are based on existing hydrological 3 records and assumed seasonal cropping patterns and water requirements. The optimization of water use and allocation will require daily analysis and a decision making proc- I ess that is based on the complex interaction of several inflow sources, ground water levels, storage facilities and water demand requirements in the AILWMP area. A hydrometric network will be provided under the project to capture and process inflow and storage data. An associated system for 3 information dissemination will be provided by the project as well.

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A budget estimate for the ESMP activities on dam safety is shown in Table 7-15 below:

I Table 7-15 Costs of ESMP dam safety activities Dam Safety Budget Estimate Total Panel of Erperts - Panel of Experts 75,000 Preparation of dam safety plans 400,000 Safety inspections 208,000 I ;Trdining anid Capacit Building -:-- .. ; . ',,',,s]'.i ' - ; Training of safety issues 40,000 National workshops and seminars 80,000

Re-analysis of seismic risks and seismic risk surveys 100,000 Total 903,000 l l I l

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1 7.7 Resettlement Plan and Policy Frameworks

| 7.7.1 Overview and Categorization

Land acquisition and resettlement issues under the AILWMP are divided into three categories of safeguards compliance implementation.

(i) Supplementary Resettlement Action Plan for the Alborz Reservoir (ii) Resettlement Policy Framework for the Upper Watershed (iii) Resettlement Policy Framework for the Lower Watershed

I During project preparation, agreements were reached with the concerned agencies, namely with MGRWC for the Resettlement Plan (RP) for the Alborz Dam and Reservoir area, with the FRWO for the Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) for the Upper Watershed, and with I MGRWC and MOJA for the RPF for the lower watershed. An overview of these frameworks and plan is presented below in tab. 3.

I Resettlement Interventions and World Bank Safeguard Requirements (tab. 3) a

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3 Area GOI Intervention AILWMP Project Intervention

Alborz Dam and Res- The GOI is in the process of resettling A supplementary Resettlement Plan (RP) has ervoir area 3283 people from the Alborz Reservoir been prepared y the GOI. The RP provides Area. guidance on resettlement policies of the GOI . .. . ~~~~~andthe World Bank. Six villages will be completely inundated by the reservoir, but in total Resettlement is exclusively implemented by the there are 15 administrative villages that GOI according to plans for the Alborz Dam pro- are affected by the dam. ject. The AILWP does not entail any resettlement of people from the dam and reservoir area.

Upper Watershed GOI has an on-going national pro- A Resettlement Policy Framework(RPF) has gramme on gradual resettlement of been prepared, providing guidance on resettle- | forest dwellers from fragile mountain ment policies of the GOI and the World Bank. areas to lower areas. The AILWMP does not include any resettlement of people from the upper watershed. Instead, sustainable natural resource management and protection of existing forests is proposed in the Upper Watershed and Forestry Management Component. Involuntary resettlement may take place under the current GOI national programme of Resettlement of the Livestock form the forest. ffI Middle and lower Land clearing includes 400 ha of for- A Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) has watersheds estry lands in the middle area and 1000 been prepared. Resettlement will only be reha of agricultural land in the lower quired in relation to the construction of con- watershed for the construction of irri- veyor and major canals. In most cases, only gation and drainage canals and access land acquisition of parts of people's land is re- roads. quired, and a plan for compensation is pre- 3 pared.

7.7.2 Supplementary Resettlement Plan for the Alborz Reservoir

| The construction of the Alborz Dam and Storage Reservoir involves the acquisition of about 802 ha of land of 15 administrative villages. Acquisition includes: (a545.09 ha of paddy land; (b) 93 ha of orchards; (c) 84.79 ha of homesteads, including areas under structures and yards/gardens; 3 (d) 14.7 ha of pastures and forests; and (e) 67.51 ha of miscellaneous kinds of land including unutilized land, land used for public buildings, shops and businesses. The affected land and properties belong to 870 households with total population of 3,283 landowners. An estimated I 25 percent of the affected are absentee landowners currently residing outside the project- affected area.

3 About 50 percent of the total affected population has already been compensated (reaming include 355 households and 1,401 people and 464.5 ha of agricultural land). Resettlement was carried out in accordance with the applicable legal and policy provisions in Iran. To comply I with the requirements of the World Bank Policy on Involuntary Resettlement (OP 4.12), the

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3 GOI decided to take extra measures in order to streamline the acquisition process, strengthen the resettlement institutions and improve community participation.

7.7.3 Additional Resettlement Provisions

The GOI decided to make the following additional provisions through appropriate administra- 3 tive measures:

(1) Additional provision for people who have already been compensated 3 Optionsfor allotment of replacementagricultural lands:

(i) Allotment of replacement agricultural land of the government at specified locations I equivalent to the area of their affected land holdings in the project area. Conces- sional loans would be offered to the affected people to help purchase these lands.

(ii) Purchase of privately owned agricultural land in Dahestans (location) identified by the project authorities, with productivity potential equivalent to the land given up under the | resettlement process.

Criteriafor eligibility:

* Since people who have already been resettled and received compensation compensated according to the relevant laws, a number of eligibility criteria met be met to qualify for the land allotment option and other assistance measures. These criteria have been developed as previous compensation pay- ments were very generous.

3 To be eligible for retroactive land allotment option the following criteria apply:

(i) The person has to be the original recipient of the compensation; (ii) The person should not hold a permanent job; (iii) The person should not have a viable business enterprise; (iv) The person should not receive income from real estate; (v) The person should not have any agricultural land from which he/she receives profit; (vi) The person will be working on the replacement land; and (vii) At the time of compensation, the person was not an absentee land owner. I Optionsfor vulnerable households:

For those people who did not lose land due to the Alborz Dam, but classify as "economically vul- I nerable", the following additional measures may be offered:

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3 (i) The Alborz Dam Project will provide financial and credit assistance through charitable institutions to promote self-employment opportunities. The financial assistance will consist of a one-time cash grant of 5 million Rial (about USD 600) and an additional 3 concessional loan of up to 20 million Rial (about USD 2400) at a concessional rate of interest.

| (ii) For vulnerable people who are unable to access any of the above options due to physical, age and labour constraints, a one time cash payment up to an amount of USD 1000 will be made to local charitable institutions, with a request to provide regular monthly 3 assistance in the form of food grains and other essential items.

(2) Provisions to people yet to be assisted and covered by the RP

People who lose more than 25 percent of their land holdings would have the following options, namely to:

(i) Receive cash compensation at the replacement cost of the affected land.

(ii) Receive government land in the "new irrigation development area" equivalent to the land forgone. Irrigation infrastructure will be provided at no additional cost. If a delay in provision of irrigation facilities occurs, the Alborz Dam project would provide additional compensation equivalent to the difference in production on rainfed and irrigated land.

(iii) Receive agricultural land of equivalent productive potential in designated Dahestans (Lafour, Chahar dangeh, Babolkenar and Joybar, the latter in the development area) to be purchased by the Alborz Dam project. These lands would be identified by the people themselves. The project authorities will calculate the productive potential of different types of land in the reservoir area and in the Dahestans (Lafour, Chahar dangeh, Ba- bolkenar and Joybar, the latter in the development area) designated for potential pur- | chase of private land for resettlement.

Other categories of impact regarding:

I (iv) Sharecroppers:These will be compensated at the rate of three times their assessed, annual income from sharecropping.

3 (v) People whose secondary sources of income are affected on account of acquisition/displacement will be given additional compensation, up to 11 years of income from the forgone activity.

(vi) Unviable, redundantparcels of land and structures that are left behind after acquisition of the main property will be acquired by the Alborz Dam Project and compensated if the owner so desires.

(vii) Displaced landless wage earners will receive special financial assistance. The project will also consider special assistance to other vulnerable groups.

7-40 I 9/16/2004 (viii) A resettlemnent unit will be created within the MGR WC to oversee all aspects of land acquisition and resettlement. The unit will include representatives from the affected com- I munities as well as a trained community worker to improve the communication between the project agency and the affected communities.

(ix) An independent grievance unit with adequate representation of affected people will be established to handle complaints and grievances associated with land acquisition and resettlement.

7.7.4 Resettlement Policy Framework - Upper Watershed

This section summarizes the provisions of the RPF for resettlement of animal husbandry I breeders and forest dwellers. The Range, Forest and Watershed Organization (FRWO), as part of a national program, aims at I conserving, rehabilitating and sustaining the use and development of natural forest and rangeland resources. Its objectives are to:

(i) Balance the livestock population with the carrying capacity of the rangelands.

(ii) Remove scattered single families and domestic livestock located within the forest area.

This national program is a phased program which started in 1996 and in Mazandaran and was I implemented in Nour, Sari, Nakah, and Behshar. The program also includes the forests located in the upper watershed of Alborz Mountains covered by the AILWMP. However, the FRWO decided to stop any relocation in the AILWMP area until a Master Plan (MP), which will be carried out in the first one and a half years of the AILWMP in the upper watershed, is completed. Therefore, any relocation in the upper watershed in the AILWMP area will be subject to the result of the MP. The FRWO has decided to use this area as a pilot and use the recommendations of the MP regarding the resettlement of the people living in this area. In case, after the completion of the master plan, which its recommendations will be reviewed by the Bank, there will be some resettlement in the AILWMP the following would be relevant.

Affected Population and Type of Adverse Impacts

The possible affected population includes 933 traditional cattle breeders/herders, 267 single families living within forest areas and, to a lesser extent, communities living in villages adjacent to the project area.

Under the national program currently under implementation by the FRWO, all scattered forest dwellers and single family living within the forest should participate in the relocation program * of livestock from the forest as explained below.

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Principles and Objectives of Resettlement

(i) Traditionalcattle breeders with grazing licenses and legal exemptions in the rangelandsand | pastures: The GOI will buy land and building structures at market rates and encourage the transition to intensive cattle breeding or farming. It will also encourage the trade-in of grazing licences (equal to 14,400 toam per livestock unit) in exchange for I land outside the forest to be granted legal private ownership status. If cattle breeders opt for replacement land, the FRWO would ensure that every affected family receive a basic minimum area of land' adequate to sustain livelihoods at least at cur- I rent levels and prevent impoverishment irrespective of the compensation amount cattle breeders are entitled to receive according to the law.

(ii) Forest dwvellers with legally valid exemptions for living inside the forest (communities with less than 20 households) will compensated as under item (i).

(iii) Sedentany village communltities living at peripwenj offorests consisting of less than 20 households are to be treated as explained under item (i). However, relocation of these all the above categories of people in the AILWMP area will be carried out based on the result and findings of the MP, which will be reviewed by the Bank before implementation

(iv) Communities ozver 20 households: The FRWO will offer incentives such as veterinary services, winter forage etc. to switch to modern cattle breeding. Even though these villages are not included in the national program of forest livestock resettlement, | the access of villages in the periphery of the forest could be restricted in the future. The GOI would initiate a number of economic development activities in these areas to reduce the current dependence on forest resources. Under the Upper Watershed | and Forest Management Component of the AILWMP, a Master Plan will be developed during the first 1-1 1/2 of the project to identify the details of these activities, including the establishment of forest cooperatives, in a participatory manner.

The FRWO agreed to implement the following measures in the area of the AILWMP in addition to the statutory provisions described above:

(i) If affected people opt for replacement agricultural land and form farmer cooperatives, the project will facilitate access to credit on concessional terms for procuring agricultural inputs such as fertilizers, seeds and agricultural implements. This would be carried out under the provisions of the ongoing small farmer assistance programs of MOJA.

* (ii) If secondary sources of income such as small business, silk cocoon production etc. are affected on account of relocation, households would receive additional cash compensation equivalent to an amount of 11 years income from such business. The business income will be assessed by a legal expert assessor.

The replacement land will be provided at the lower watershed areas. This land belong to FRWO and no fresh acquisition will be necessary

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3 (iii) Residential structures will be compensated at full replacement value without taking into account any depreciation losses due to the age of structures. Furthermore, as a special concession, owners of structures will be will be allowed to carry salvageable materials from the structures without any charge.

(iv) An independent grievance unit with adequate representation of affected people will 3 be established to deal with complaints/ grievances associated with land acquisition and resettlement.

3 (v) In order to strengthen the participatory structures and communication process between project agency and the participant households, the FRWO authorities will involve local NGOs. These NGOs will establish close contact with the participating 3 households and ensure that compensation payment and resettlement process is completed without hurdles and hardship to the participants.

3 The planning and implementation of the entire resettlement program will be guided by the following principles:

(i) Transparency and information disclosure: Inventory of immovable property and livestock, its evaluation and compensation and allotment of alternative land and other entitlements will be done in a transparent manner. To this end, the FRWO will carry out an information campaign in areas affected by the project, distribute information booklets/handbills explaining the policy/legal provisions and will ap- point community workers to interact and assist the affected communities. I* (ii) Community Participation: The entire program will be carried out in a participatory manner with active, informed involvement of the affected communities and house- | holds.

(iii) Overall economic improvement through expansion of existing forest cooperatives to create jobs and develop the economy; and improved agricultural training and extension services. l 7.7.5 Resettlement Policy Framework - Lower Watershed I Affected Population and Types of Adverse Impacts

I The construction of new irrigation and drainage networks and improvement of the existing networks will involve acquisition of land for the right of way along the structures. Current estimates indicate that a total of 905 ha of land is required for canal construction and another 526 ha for the construction of drainage infrastructures.

7-43 I 9/16/2004 Affected people include

(i) Landowners loosing all or almost all of their land;

* (ii) Landowners loosing part of the land, but will still have an economically viable property;

(iii) Agricultural laborers, sharecroppers, lessees etc.

Principles & Objectives of Resettlement I The land requirement for the Irrigation and Drainage Component under the AILWMP is limited to the "right of way" of the canal and drainage networks and associated engineering structures and buildings. Compensation of affected persons will be governed by the following general principles:

(i) The project will take all possible steps to minimize the acquisition of productive, privately owned land and avoid acquisition of residential areas.

(ii) The GOI will endeavor to ensure that project affected persons do not suffer impoverishment on account of land acquisition.

(iii) Compensation equivalent to the replacement value of land will be paid to the property/rights owners based on this RPF.

(iv) Landowners losing more than 25 percent of their holding will have the option of receiving replacement land in lieu of cash compensation.

(v) The annual land acquisitions and compensation plan will prepared and implemented in a transparent manner with the participation of affected people and village institutions.

3 (vi) The project will replace infrastructure facilities such as roads, irrigation, and communication networks disrupted by the construction of canal and drainage network.

| Legal and Policy Framework

Under this policy, acquisition and compensation of land required for (a) main canals and 3 drainage and (b) secondary and tertiary and distributaries are governed by different sets of regulations and policies. These are discussed below: 3 (a) Primary and main canals and drains: (i) People losing agricultural land will be provided cash compensation at the full re- 3 placement value of the affected land.

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3 (ii) People losing more than 25 percent of their land holding will also have the option to be allotted an equivalent amount of government land in the "new irrigation development" area.

(iii) Any uneconomic or "odd shaped" land holdings will be acquired by the project at the option of the affected land holder.

(iv) Any crop or other damage incurred during construction will be fully compensated for by the project.

* (v) Any village common property that is affected by the project will be compensated at its replacement cost, based on negotiations with the affected administrative units.

* (vi) The project will cover the initial costs associated with developing and connecting replacement lands to the irrigation system.

* (vii) If secondary sources of income such as small business, silk cocoon production etc. are affected on account of land acquisition, such households will be given additional cash compensation equivalent to 11 years income from such business (the calculation of one year income is done by a legal expert assessor).

(viii) In the unlikely event of displacement, the project will take all necessary measures to relocate families by offering suitable replacement house plots and additional grants equivalent to 15 percent of compensation to cover the cost of relocation and transi- | tional phase expenses.

(ix) Residential structures will be compensated at full replacement value without taking into account any depreciation due to the age of the structures.

(b) Secondary, tertiary and on farm canals and drains and distributaries

| With respect to construction of secondary as well as tertiary canals, land for the construction of canals in a given village can be donated by affected people under the following conditions:

| (i) A WUA is formed in the relevant village.

(ii) The WUA agrees to the land consolidation proposal presented by the project authorities.

(iii) Under the proposed land consolidation scheme, none of the owners of agricultural I land stands to lose more than 10 percent of their original land holding. (iv) The contribution of land is counted towards the mandatory contribution required | for financing of tertiary canals and on-farm works.

(v) The irrigation connection fee (about USD 1200 per ha) will be waived for WUAs | that agree to donate land for construction.

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If any of the above conditions are not fulfilled, land for construction of secondary and tertiary should be acquired using the normal land acquisition procedures.

Implementation:

(i) A resettlement unit will be created within the MGRWC to oversee all aspects of land acquisition and resettlement. The unit will include representative from the affected communities as well as a trained community worker to improve the communication between the project agency and the affected communities.

(ii) An independent grievance unit with adequate representation of affected people will 3 be established to deal with complaints and grievances associated with land acquisition and resettlement.

The implementation of all three resettlement programs, the RP and the RPFs, will be monitored both through internal, official institutional arrangements, as well as by independent, external agencies to be appointed by the respective organization.

I' I' I' l l

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7.8 Physical Cultural Property The GOI, through the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance evaluates individual project pro- I posals prior to approval to ensure that projects are in line with the objectives of preserving important Islamic cultural heritage and historical monuments. The Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance has the sole authority to carry out archaeological field surveys. In Mazandaran, the Cultural Heni- tage Office of the Ministry in Sari is responsible to carry out these archaeological surveys.

Interventions of the AILWMP are unlikely to affect cultural and religious monuments such as I shrines, mosques or cemeteries located in the project area, including the Alborz Reservoir area. In the upper watershed, the only known historical features are a small number of shrines. Religious places and religious theatres exist in the lower watershed. Babol is one of the ancient cities of Iran, but only few ancient buildings remain here today.

The approval documents for the (1) Alborz Dam and Reservoir and (2) Irrigation and Drainage * Network of the Ministry are annexed to the ESA report (Annex G) verifying the Alborz Dam project as part of the 3rd Five Year Socio-economic and Cultural Development Plan. Furthermore, the Ma- zandaran provincial authorities provided written assurances to people in the project area that shrines I and cemeteries, which could possibly be affected by the construction works, will be avoided with maximum consideration. A copy of the letter to the MGRWC with copy to the Dam Site Manager (of 24th Esfand 1381 / March 14th 2003) is attached to the ESA in Annex H. The letter specifies that there is no restriction for excavation mining activities in Behmeck-Lafur sites inside the dam reservoir, where stone quarrying is carried out for construction of the dam.

| In order to ensure that the project is in accordance with the regulations of the GOI and in compliance with World Bank Safeguard Policy O.P. 4.1 1, Cultural Property, the following phased activities are part of the EA process and the ESMP.

Phase I-Field Verification of Physical Cultural Property Issues under On-Going Construction The staff of the Cultural Heritage Office in Sari is carrying out field visits to the construction sites at the Alborz Dam and Reservoir and at the Ganj-Afrooz to verify the following:

i. Implementation of "chance find procedures" by contractors in conformity with the authoriza- I tion letters given by the Cultural Heritage Office in Sari and national regulations; ii. Identification and verification of any required additional investigations or mitigation measures to protect cultural property;

Phase 2 - Office Investigations and Preliminary Field Survey for Physical Cultural Property in the Alborz Reservoir Area and other project areas (upper, middle and lower watersheds) I The second phase work will be completed by the Cultural Heritage Office in Sari prior to the filling of the reservoir and prior to starting construction work on the main irrigation canals. I

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3 The scope of work to be accomplished by the Cultural Heritage Office includes:

i. A background review within the Cultural Heritage Office of all relevant documents on physi- | cal cultural heritage; ii. A review of project maps in the draft ESA to document the locations of all project facilities; maps with the locations of project facilities will be provided by the Water Authority, and a I representative of the Water Authority will consult with the Cultural Heritage Office to properly identify these locations. iii. Identification and documentation of locations of monuments, cemeteries, and recognized I physical cultural sites on a map (with coordinates); iv. Identification of all other areas with a high potential for physical cultural property; v. Preliminary field survey, mainly a visual inspection by qualified archaeologists or similar I specialists of the areas of high potential at: (1) dam reservoir site; (2) main roads in the upper watershed; (3) diversion structures on the Babol River; (4) main irrigation canals; (5) secondary irrigation canals. I vi. Identification of any additional field work by the Cultural Heritage Office; vii. Description of the mitigation and protection measures recommended. viii. Description of monitoring and "chance find procedures" by the Cultural Heritage Office in Sari for construction activities. I I I

Il I

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U 7.9 Proposed BudgetforESMP i| 7.9.1. Overview As previously stated, the AILWMP Project triggers seven safeguard policies. For clarity and to assure that the issues under each safeguard policy are being addressed and mitigated, the structure of * the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) has been organized by safeguard policy, as illustrated in Table 7-17 below. Table 7.17 AIL WMP ESMP Sub-Components with Associated World Bank Safeguards

Sub- Sub-Component Title Safeguard Policy Addressed Component * Number 7.1 Forest and Wildlife Monitoring - Compliance OP 4.36 - Forestry 7.2 Water Quality Monitoring - Compliance OP 4.01 - Environmental Assessment

7.3 River Ecology Monitoring and Mitigation - Compliance OP 4.01 - Environmental Assessment 7.4 Pest Management Plan OP 4.09 - Integrated Pest Manage- ment 7.5 Dam Safety Plan OP 4.37 Safety of Dams 7.6 Resettlement Instrument and Resettlement Policy Frameworks OP 4.12 - Involuntary Resettlement 7.7 Action plan for Preserving Physical Cultural Property OPN 11.03, drafted as OP 4.11 - Cul- *______tural Property

Notes: Compliance with OP 7.50 (International Waterways) requires notification of neighboring states and agreement and notification of the Riparian countries has been carried out by the World Bank on behalf of Gol; no action plan or budget is required, hence there is no specific ESMP component for this safeguard policy.

| The AILWMP will promote targeted monitoring of project impacts, including monitoring of impacts of the Alborz Dam. It will include comprehensive capacity building activities for government staff, such as training, seminars, study tours and workshops, and procurement of equipment for up- I grading of laboratories and environmental monitoring facilities. Enhanced capacities of provincial government agencies and natural resources users will enable stakeholders to take joint and coordinated responsibilities for monitoring and subsequent mitigation measures.

Public participation and disclosure of information will be an important aspect of each component to ensure timely and adequate dissemination of results and initiatives and public awareness and consultation in important environmental matters.

I 7.9.2. Summary of ESMP and Proposed Budget Details of all of the mitigation and monitoring measures described in the table, including monitoring locations and parameters etc., and associated costs, are presented in this section of the ESA report. The Resettlement Plan for the reservoir area and Resettlement Policy Frameworks for the upper watershed and downstream irrigation and drainage area are presented as separate documents, with a summary presented in Appendix 2 of this document.

7-49 I 9/16/2004 The ESMP will constitute the fourth component of the AILWMP. For the implementation of the above described sub-components of the ESMP, a total budget of US$8,115,900 is allocated. A I breakdown of this budget is presented in Table 7-18, and further details of the various budget lines are provide in the main ESA report. I l l I I I I I l I I I

7-50 9/16/2004 ------m - m M

Table 7-18 Detailed ESMP

Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity AgnyTiming/Frequenc CsEstimate

l~~~ln

Mitigation/EnhancementMeasure Lack of coordinated forestry data sets Digitize and integrate forest maps into GIS system MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) - YR 50,000 1,3,5 & 7____ Requirement for planned forest management Create detailed forest management plan for each sub-catchment MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) No incremental costs activities area in upper watershed (incorporated else- . where) ___ Lack of local consultation/participation in plan- Consultation with communities as part of community-based for- MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) & As above ning process estry management program Phase 11 (Implementa-

------_ _...... __._..____...... ---- ...... _ _ _- ...... ------...... __.,.. t )...... _...... _...... __ .._. _ Forest degradation Forest replanting of indigenous species adapted to climate and MGRWC/FRWO Phase 11 (Implementa- As above ecological conditions of site -_-_----tion) _.. . ------| _ - -_ Decrease in ecologically significant species Creation of hunting controlled area near dam MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) As above As above Strengthen management of legally designated protected areas MGRWC/FRWO Phase II (Implementa- As above __ ._ __._ ._ ._ __ __ -. __. ______.. _ _.___tionf) As above Consolidate and strengthen current protected area system MGRWC/FRWO Phase 11 (Implementa- As above __ ...... _. __.._. _.._.___...... __ ...... _._...... __....__ .__...... __...... tion) ...... _ . ..__._..._ l ____l Illegal logging and encroachment associated Prioritize road construction proposals exclusively designed to MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Construction) As above with road construction remove bottlenecks to sustainable forest management. Avoidance of erosion-prone and ecologically sensitive areas Monitoring Limited monitoring capacity of Provision of Support Staff (3 technicians and I biologist): MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (inception) 117,600 MGRWC/FRWO > Mitigation activities (described above) > Monitoring forest cover > Monitoring of wildlife biodiversity; > Monitoring designated protected areas; > Compliance monitoring of road design and construction;

...... > Monitoring of WB environmental.. safeguards compliance L I ...... I...... I...... -...... 7-51 9/16/2004 -m=- mmm-w- on m-

Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timiing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Lack of equipment Provision of Equipment and Vehicles MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) _ 31,800 Capacity Building______Lack of trained staff to carry out technical ac- Workshops, sem-inars and training: MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) & 157,000 tivities Training for the digitalization of forest cover and mgmt plan Phase II (Implementa- database; tion) Provide for professional staff to strengthen M&E activities of the DOE and FRWO; GPS training; Training for correct wildlife and forest cover monitoring (technical and biological) Study tour of the Eastern Anatolia Watershed Mgmt Pro- gram in Eastern Turkey for implementing officials;

Provision of _qyipm~ent and vehicles; __ Lack of coordination between FWRO and Strengthening institutional coordination between the FWRO and MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Inception) & 16,800 MGRWC DOE: Phase II (Implementa- )~ Promote joint supervision of new M&E system; tion) > Integration of data collection and evaluation systems, such as GIS; Monthly coordination meetings between MGRWC and

______F R W O______Subtotal 373,200

Mtgtion/Enhancement Measure

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Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Lack of inter-agency coordination > Create WQ monitoring program for MDOE, MJAD, MGRWC/MJAD/ Phase I (Inception) 300,000 MGRWC & MDOFA; MDOW/MDOFA Installation of computer center and development of groundwater model; Development of implementation plan for water quality monitoring program at the following sites: Babolrood (17 stations), Talar Rood (6 stations), Siah Rood (2 stations). Develop WQ parameters and indicators (and add to moni- __ -.-...... - toring_._. activities._ _ _ via_ _WQ Monitoring Protocol)- Pollution of ab-bandans used for fish cultiva- Ab-bandan water quality improvement - protection of nine, ecol- MGRWC/MJAD/ Duration of Project 40,000 tion and/or valued ecological habitats ogically sensitive ab-bandans (Ramnat, Aghaz-bem, Langur, Azi- MDOE zak, Rooshandan, Esmaeeil-Kola, Anarmarz, Zarin, Larimn-Kola): > Control of permissions for fish cultivation; > Development of guidelines for improved ab-bandan management, with specific focus on bird preservation; ._l Monitoring Limited monitoring capacity of MDOE, > Establish Management Information Systems Unit (MIS) MGRWC/MJAD/ Phase I (Inception) & 1,950,700 MGRWC, and MJAD under MGRWC; MDOE Phase II (Operation)

> Field monitoring and support equipment (incl. O&M);

> Computer hardware and accessories to interface with current unit; > Integration of existing sampling and analytical programs of DOE, MGRWC and DOFA into a single system; ...... …....____ _ > Upgrade of DOE and MGRWC laboratoies; Pollution of ab-bandans used for fish cultiva- Ab-bandan monitoring: (surface water and fish sampling) MGRWC/MJAD/ Annually (preferably 50,000 tion and/or valued ecological habitats > Visual inspection monitoring with GPS and topographical MDOE June to August) maps; > Fauna and flora monitoring; .> Simple chemical analysis (N, P, K, dissolved 02 etc); > Production of status maps and pattem and trend analyses using GIS;

7-53 9/16/2004 m - m m --- mmm ---

Potential Issues/impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Lack of baseline river flow data in project area ' Hydrological monitoring (water quantity) as part of MGRWC/MJAD/ Monthly Cost included in (particularly Babol River) AILWMP Component 3 (Integrated Water Resources Man- MDOE AILWMP Component agement) 3 Capacity Building Lack of inter-agency cooperation and re- > GPS and WQ Training; MGRWC/MJAD/ Phase I (Inception) & 267,500 sults sharing: > Installation of computer center; MDOE Phase 11 (Implementa- tion) Subtotal 2,608,200 mm"Ma _M4

Technical and financial support for community- The Basin Water Fund is designed to provide technical and finan- MGRWC/MJAD/ Phase I (Inception) and 250,000 based initiatives cial support for community-based initiatives for improving land MDOE Phase II (Implementa- and water resources management. with the total budget allocation tion) of $5 million targeted for demand driven mini projects identified by the community at large (e.g., villages, NGOs). The environmental screening procedure will be prepared in the operation manual with reference to the MNA CDD Manual "Environmental and Social Management Framework for World Bank Projects with Multiple Small-Scale Subprojects: A Toolkit". Mitigation, monitoring and capacity building is recommended by the framework as needed. Subtotal 250,000

Mitigation Enforce existing regulations and change public > Seminars and pubic awareness campaigns on major issues MGRWC/MDOE/ Phase I (Inception) and 150,000 attitudes on use of river resources (e.g. pump- of environmental/ ecological river management MJAD Phase 11 (Implementa- ing for irrigation, gravel extraction in river beds tion) and banks, over-fishing, discharging domestic and industrial waste water, etc.)

c q. .l; : tji,%,\ :._.ndi.-..n.l , ,,;,nri - .r PI...... ii,. 1% . ,z, i. r r n.-rp I. v,1.iti%... in,. .l.-o r ii,. .Irl\,li I,i8i ,\ on ki R V:t 1)1hr7I iI In pi ,or,i ', P..l..'l, 7-54 9/16/2004 Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timting/Frequency Cost Estimate

(including for salmon and surgeon) other rivers and sturgeon; MDOFAI Feasibility study and cost estimates for Babol River; 6 man months Detailed scientific research on the requirements for sustaining environmental flows in the Babol River (morphology, 3 man months ecology, water flow and quality) - feasibility assessment, recommendations & cost estimiate of rehabilitation; Regulation of minimum environmental base flow; Recommendations for appropriate minimum base flow as a Ana eot result of research and monitor-ing Research on estuary preparation and leisure/fishing port traffic control and management Action plan to strengthen the enforcement and implementation of existing regulations (e.g. garbage reduction, recycling; illegal fish introduction) Strengthen enforcement and implementation of current regulations Design and implement programs on waste water reduction

- and management - __ . ~ ._ _ Negative impacts on sturgeon fisheries Studies on river modification options, including economic evalua- MGRWC/ Phase I (Inception) 150,000

______~~~~~~~~~tionof caviar production. __ MDOFA As above Drafting a river basin management master plan to include: MGRWC/ Phase I (Inception) Costs incorporated Proposal for removal of existing rubber dams; MDOFA elsewhere Introduction of fish ladders;

______~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~Action prograin to improve auaculture ______As above Modification of river barriers to sturgeon, following recommnen- MGRWC/ Phase IL(Implementa- Depends on feasibility dations of above study. Possible dredging following recommenda- MDOFA tion) study (not included in

tions of above study. ______project costs) Monitoring

7-55 9/16/2004 Potential Issues/impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Lack of baseline ecological data on Babol River Baseline monitoring and reporting on river ecology status (fish MGRWC/ Quarterly, seasonally or 150,000 populations, especially indicator species (Sturgeon and Kyte) MDOFA annually (depending on algae, macrophytes, river profile, benthos and basic WQ) species), starting in Phase I (Inception Capacity Building Lack of technical programme design capacity Technical assistance for design of monitoring program and river MGRWC Phase I (Inception) 100,000 modifications Ldc i-1l Iul,abl, iechr,c.il) rrJuned lr.illIruiningand cipiJiL) building :; f1llolis NIGRWAC lihaM1e I IincepliOn) - IRI Design, modification and monitoring of river (data extrac- 1-2 tion, analysis, report preparation - IMS, Databases, GIS based report). Refresher course for lab staff on limnological analysis, Seminars and public awareness campaigns on major issues of environmental/ecological river management _ Subtotal 950,000

Caacity Building Lak of knowledge of IPM Introduce worldwide experience in IPM through engaging inter- MPPO Years I and 2 40,000

.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~. _.___...... _...... _ ...... ____...... _...._ national biological control experts in Manzadaran As above Strengthening of IPM staff by expanding Farmer Field School MPPO Years I and 2 178,000 training mode, and by engaging public and private sector specialists

> Training of trainers for extension and NGO staff (20 trained)

> Participatory IPM training for new farmers in project areas at 4 different sites ...... _._...... _. - ..-...... -...... - -...... ------....--- _.._.. As above Strengthen NGOs promoting sustainable pest management (TA MPPO Years I and 2 165,000

___ ~~~~~~~~~~andeqsuipment) - --

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Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

As above Provide scientific support and training to upgrade applied biologi- MPPO Years I and 2 40,000 cal research in context of IPM

> Study visits of Iranian technicians (Public sector) to China for cultivation of biocontrol

> Study visits of two Iranian technicians (NGO) to cormmer- cial biocontrol producers in Europe Lack of capacity for monitoring of sustainable Implementation of pilot studies - in the project area - on the ef- MPPO Years I and 2 50,000 pest control and pesticide application fectiveness of non-chemical control methods in the context of IPM, and recommendations on future improvement and main streaming As above Laboratory equipment and supplies for two detection labs (early MPPO Phase I (Inception) 250,000 warning and demo-equipment) l As above Field -based extension staff to provide on-site training and techni- MPPO Duration of project 50,000 cal advice to farmers As above Training and supervision of traders of pesticides and pest control MPPO Duration of Project 50,000 tools for product safety Monitoring Requirement to increase monitoring of specific Monitor specific pollutant parameters, including regular determi- MPPO Years I to 4 24,000 pollution parameters, including regular deter- nation of selected pesticide residues in water (100 samples annu- mination of selected pesticide residues in water ally) and agricultural products (200 samples annually) and agriculture products as well as monitoring the health of farm workers .... _ .... _ ~~~~...... __...... w...... _._.._._. ._...... -. _..._ .._...-...... ___...... _. As above Monitoring the health of farm workers MPPO Duration of Project 90,000

> Training medical staff in the identification and management of pesticide poisoning

> Set up of monitoring network and database (hardware and ...... sof wa e) _ _ . . .

1- Contingencies and miscellaneous MPPO _ 184,500 Subtotal 1,121,500

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Potential Issues/Impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Mitigation Safety of Dam Panel of Experts to inspect and evaluate the safety status of the MGRWC Duration of Project 75,000

. --...... __dam (on a periodic basis) . Inadequate O&M and emergency preparations Preparation of dam safety plans (construction/quality assurance, MGRWC Phase I (Inception) 400,000

instrumentation,..... - ...... em.rgency prep) -- _._ -- -_.- ...... - -- Re-analysis of seismic risks and seismic risk surveys (national MGRWC Phase I (Inception) 100,000 TA):

> Dam break analysis to be fed into the EPP; > Reservoir slope stability analysis considering the saturated rock strength; )> Fault rupture hazard study; > Seismic hazard analysis of the embankment body using dynamic analysis; > Flood hydrology for reevaluating the size of the probable maximum flood; | Requirement for inflow and storage data Develop hydrometric network to capture inflow and storage data MGRWC/MOJA Phase I (Inception) (component 3) Monitoring Inadequate safety inspections and standards Periodic safety inspections MGRWC Duration of Project 208,000 for all moni-

...... _. _._.... J~~Nuircmcntdain safet...... -... to___...... update ...... Re__la--- F-- ...... _.__._._...... _._. _...... _...... _...... totorin ringtandainssectio g and i s e t o menttoupdateda s_fty ns _ Regularly updateda...ans _sa.. to reflect changes MGRWC Duration of Project Requirement to es ablish baseline flow rates Monior ift pressures and flow rates MGRWC Duration of kgcpiirement to monitor damn reservoir Monitor stability of reservoir side slopes for unstable zones MGRWC Duration of Project___ Inadequate emergency preparedness arrange- Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) will be disseminated among MGRWC Phase I (Inception) ments the downstream inhabitants Capacity Building Requirement for training in emergency re- Training of safety issues: MGRWC Phase I (Inception) 40,000 sponse training > Emergency Response training will be provided for opera- - tion staff and representatives from the cities and vi l l ...... …...... -_ ....-...... _ ...... _ ...... _ I...... Requirement to increase public awareness National workshops and seminars on Dam Safety issues MGRWC Phase I (Inception) 80,000 Subtotal 903,000

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IPotential Issues/impacts ESMP Response/Activity Aency Timing/Frequenc CsEstimate

Involuntary resettlement Cash or land compensation for families involuntarily resettled: GOI (MGRWC/ In progress See total budget below

> Additional compensation for those whose secondary source FRWO) of income are affected (equivalent of II years of income from said business); > Unviable, redundant parcels of land/structures after acquisition of property can be acquired and compensated if the owner desires;

> Displaced landless wage earners and vulnerable groups will be provided with special financial assistance;

> Affected sharecroppers compensated at the rate of three times their assessed, annual income; > Landless wage earners and economically vulnerable groups will be provided with special assistance;

> Consideration of replacement land/relocation sites of project affected people if there is demand. Avoiding further resettlement/land use changes Productive/optimum use of existing land to avoid further reset- GOI (MGRWC/ Phase I (Inception) As above __ _ _.. ___ _ . tlement/land use changes FRWO) Disruption of infrastructure facilities Replacement of any infrastructure facilities disrupted by construc- GOI (MGRWC/ Phase I (Construction) As above --- . _ _ tion of canal and drainage network ...-- RWO) . . .-... .. Graduate resettlement of forest dwellers from Graduate resettlement of forest dwellers from fragile mountain GOI (FRWO) Phase II (Implementa- As above fragile mountain areas to lower areas as part of areas to lower areas as part of forest management plan: tion) forest management plan: > Purchase of land and buildings; > Encourage cxchange of grazing license for ownership of land outside the forest; ...... __ .. . .. Econom c incentives to sw-tch to modern.cattle be g - . .. . Avoidance of privately owned land Project will take all steps to minimize acquisition of productive, GOI (MGRWC/ Phases I & II As above privately owned land and avoid acquisition of residential areas in FRWO) middle and lower lands

7-59 9/16/2004 - m m m m m ------

Potential Issues/impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

Monitoring Transparency of procedures Intemal, official institutional monitoring as well as independent, MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Duration of Re- As above extermal agency monitoring of resettlement settlement)

IrJrn-p1aroic ol poc,cdurc; trexii in f iciileiiwni liI[hiflll nJR NtR crse.- i1 - NIGR\\e - R\\-)I t[)ur.iI-l'n Il K- A: ihc'. c

____ ~~~~~~~~~pectsof land acquisition and resettlement settlement) ...... _ - ...... - pe t o f __ _ . ...s...... t o ...... I...... re..... e tl m n ...... _. .. -...... __...... lm. .._...... e .... t . __...... _ ...... cu ...... Community grievances Creation of independent grievance cell with representation of MGRWC/FRWO Phase I (Duration of Re- As above affected people to deal with complaints/grievances associated settlement) with land acquisition and resettlement Capacity Building I, Community participation activities Training and use of community workers for grievance cell GOI (all related Phase I (Inception) As above and resettlement cell agencies) ...... _ ...... _...... _ .. _ _-.- ...... _...... _ ...... -...... _...... lLoss of land and income due to resettle- Agricultural training for displaced landowners GOI (MJAD/ Phase I (Duration of Re- As above ment FRWO) ]Fsettlement)

Subtotal 500,000

Mitigation______Field Verification of Physical Cultural Property Field Verification of Physical Cultural Property issues under on- CHO In progress 10,000 issues under on-going construction: going construction:

> Implementation of "chance find procedures" by contractors in ongoing construction; .. Identification of additional fieldwork if necessary; Disruption of important Islamic cultural heri- Archeological field surveys of the Alborz Dam, Reservoir and CHO Phase I (Construction) 40,000 tage and histofical monuments in the Alborz Irrigation and Drainage Network:

Dam and Reservoir Area. > Background review of all relevant documents on physical cultural heritage;

' Review of project maps to determine exact location of cultural heritage with respect to project construction; > Identification and documentation of locations of monuments, cemeteries, and recognized physical cultural sites on a map (with coordinates); _

7-60 9/16/2004 Potential Issues/impacts ESMP Response/Activity Agency Timing/Frequency Cost Estimate

' Preliminary field study of all project areas;

' Recommended mitigation and protection measures; > Recommended monitoring and "chance find procedures"; > Shrines and cemeteries will be avoided with maximum con- l______sideration. Subtotal 50,000

Technical Assistance to all agencies responsible for the ESMP for GOI (all related 1,360,000 above listed mitigation, monitoring and capacity building activi- agencies) ties. This component will include quality assurance, evaluation and coordination. It will also include an outreach campaign to build awareness through meetings, NGOs, seminars, public hearings, etc. (provisional sum) TOTAL ESMP COSTS 8,115,900

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1 7.9.3. Institutional Arrangements The institutional responsibilities for implementation of the sub-components of the ESMP are out- U lined above. The PIU and the BWC will have overall responsibility for the effective institutional co-ordination between all agencies involved in the project and the implementation of the ESMP, in co-ordination with the Central Liaison Office.

Implementation of activities under the ESMP are delegated to those institutions which are most suitable. MOJA, through the Mazandaran Plant Protection Office will implement the pest management U and biological pest control program. In addition, MOJA and MGRWC will be responsible for procurement for ESMP activities that will be implemented by MDOE solely or by MDOE in collabora- 3 tion with other agencies such as FRWO and MGRWC.

In some cases the mandates of several institutions overlap, for example in the field of water quality monitoring, which will be implemented by the MGRWC, MJAD and MDOE, and similarly in the U case of monitoring of forest rehabilitation and biodiversity conservation in the upper watershed, which will be jointly monitored by the FRWO and the MDOE. In these cases, the ESMP will further define the responsibilities of each institution to avoid duplication of activities and waste of re- I sources, or to improve co-ordination between agencies where monitoring activities are complementary as, for example, in the case of safeguard compliance monitoring in the upper watershed.

| MOJA and MGRWC, which have overall responsibility for the implementation of the AILWMP, will be responsible for the procurement of equipment and other financial arrangements required for the implementation of the ESMP in coordination with CLO.

7.9.4. Implementation Schedule The project will be implemented over a period of seven years. Project implementation consists of three phases: Phase 1 - planning, training and start-up activities; Phase 2 - full implementation of activities; and Phase 3 - emphasis on operational capacity building. Some construction works will be started during Phase I in order to continue the work that the GOI has already embarked on.

The first steps in implementation of the ESMP will be the preparation of a terms of reference for a single technical assistance consultant services contract that would support all the various project agencies. The firm selected for this mandate will be responsible to coordinate training for mitiga- | tion measures and monitoring, and to assist in regular reporting on implementation of the ESMP.

The institutions responsible for implementation under each component and sub-component and the implementation schedule of sub-components is detailed in the main ESA report, along with a detailed schedule. Activities of the ESA will be carefully reviewed by the relevant stakeholders in the project area and revised as needed prior to project implementation.

Most of the training and capacity building activities will be implemented during the first phase of the project. Provisions have been made for additional training courses to upgrade staff skills during the implementation period as well as train incoming new project staff. The design of information

7-62 I 9/16/2004 systems and the installation of computer hard and software will also be implemented during the in the first project phase. There is a need for more detailed information on the river ecology in the project area and on the protection of ab-bandans. These clarifications will also be carried out in the first phase.

7.9.5. Reporting Program Monitoring and evaluation will be essential to ensure successful implementation of the AILWMP. The completion of most of the activities under the ESMP of the AILWMP will not be measured by physical benchmarks, but rather be based on detailed reporting as follows:

1. Clear findings and recommendations that are easy to understand and based on relevant data; | 2. Transparency in reporting through public disclosure procedures; 3. Timely and accurate dissemination of findings and recommendations to authorities (e.g. Ba- sin Water Committee) for improved and informed decision-making. This will also include intra-departmental reporting, inter-departmental reporting and sharing of results.

During project implementation, the BWC will be responsible for monitoring reporting to the MOJA. * The monitoring program will be managed in a flexible way, and monitoring parameters will be adapted according to changing project requirements during implementation and based on lessons learned.

Furthermore, it is recommended that monitoring reports only included summaries of data collected, which are sufficient to draw conclusions and develop recommendations. Full data should be in- J cluded as appendices to the main reports. Reports on water quality and quantity, including the study results on the preservation of ab-bandans and the status of fish species, will first be disseminated to the BWC via MOJA and MDOE. This will allow the BWC to better manage water extraction per- * missions for irrigation and control the minimum river flow. Reports on forest cover and quality as well as the status of wildlife will be made available in form of an open access database on internet. Editing rights will be with the MDOE and the FRWO. All monitoring reports and databases will be disclosed to the public through the internet.

3 7.9.6. Transparency and Public Participation The success of the AILWMP will depend on the level of stakeholder participation. The public consultations held during the preparation of this report revealed that there is scope for improving the I level of awareness among the public which has shown a high interest in being involved. Therefore, it will be important to ensure and fully benefit from the participation of a wide range of stakeholders 3 and the public by considering the following:

i. Complementarity of stakeholder values, needs and requirements and project objectives; ii. Increasing awareness among stakeholders and developing a spirit of cooperation between I stakeholders; iii. Provision of adequate human resources for project implementation; 3 iv. Facilitation of timely and adequate project implementation;

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3 v. Ensuring replication of project outcomes after successful implementation; vi. Cooperation of stakeholder in maintenance operations; vii. Clarification and quantification of project outcomes and impacts; I viii. Thorough consideration of the needs and demands of the society at the point of project inception and in the future; ix. Promoting acceptance of the project among different stakeholders and ownership; and 1 x. Providing relevant information in an effective medium(ia) and format to all stakeholders and civil society in a timely manner. l l l I l l l l l l I

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