Doc Hab 12-04/04
Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora
and
Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds
PRIORITISED ACTION FRAMEWORK (PAF) FOR NATURA 2000
DENMARK
For the EU Multiannual Financing Period 2014-2020
Finalised 31 January 2013
2 A. Introductory overview of Natura 2000 network for territory
A.1 Short introduction to the habitat types of Annex I and species of Annex II of the Habitats Directive and Annex I and migratory bird species for which Natura 2000 sites are designated
Denmark hosts 60 habitat types of Annex I and 38 species of Annex II under the Habitats Directive. Among those habitats and species, Denmark has 12 priority habitat type and 2 priority species under the terms of the Habitats Directive.
Furthermore, Denmark has designated sites under the Birds Directive for app. 85 species of which app. 50 species are annex 1 species.
See Annex I, II and III of this report for more detailed information.
A.2 Number and area of Natura 2000 sites
Sites of Community Number and Area Importance (SCIs) Reference to Commission Atlantic Region Commission Decision: Decisions on SCIs 2011/63/EU of 10 January 2011 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive Kommentar [lar1]: The recent 92/43/EEC, a fourth updated list of sites of Community importance for the 2012 decisions not included Atlantic biogeographical region (notified under document number
3 C(2010) 9666)
2010/43/EU of 22 December 2009 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, a third updated list of sites of Community importance for the Atlantic biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2009) 10405)
2009/96/EC of 12 December 2008 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, a second updated list of sites of Community importance for the Atlantic biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2008) 8119)
2008/23/EC of 12 November 2007 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, a first updated list of sites of Community importance for the Atlantic biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2007) 5396)
2004/813/EC of 7 December 2004 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, the list of sites of Community importance for the Atlantic biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2004) 4032)
Continental Region:
2011/64/EU of 10 January 2011 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, Kommentar [lar2]: The recent a fourth updated list of sites of Community importance for the Continental 2012 decisions not included biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2010) 9669)
2010/44/EU of 22 December 2009 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, a third updated list of sites of Community importance for the Continental biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2009) 10422)
2009/93/EC Commission Decision of 12 December 2008 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, a second updated list of sites of Community importance for the Continental biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2008) 8039)
2008/25/EC of 13 November 2007 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, a first updated list of sites of Community importance for the Continental biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2007) 5403)
2004/798/EC of 7 December 2004 adopting, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, the list of sites of Community importance for the Continental biogeographical region (notified under document number C(2004) 4031)
Link to Decisions at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/sites_hab/biogeog_regio ns/index_en.htm Special Areas of Number of sites: 261 Conservation (SACs) Total SAC area: 1.824.312 hectares Total SCI area: 133.204 (not included in the SAC area) Special Protection Areas (SPAs) Number of sites: 112 SPA area: 1.471.813 hectares Total Natura 2000 terrestrial area 353.628 hectares
Total Natura 2000 marine area 1,909,779 hectares
4 A.3 Main land use cover and ecosystem categories for Natura 2000 sites
Land Cover Types 4,58%
3,43% Agriculture 6,34% 2,26% Coastal ecosystems 0,00%
0,16% Forests 3,50% Grasslands
Open spaces with little or no vegetation Other
Wetlands 79,73% Marine
5 B. Status of the Habitats and Species
B.1 Most recent assessment of conservation status of species and habitat types for territory
B.1.a Habitat and species of Habitats Directive
B.1.b Bird species of Birds Directive
Under preparation as part of the reporting exercise under Birds Directive, article 12.
6 B.2 Overall assessment of conservation status by Habitat category / species group
B.3 Overview of pressures and threats to species and habitats
7 C. LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FOR THE PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT OF THE NATURA 2000 SITES
C.1 Relevant legal provisions
I. Designation and legal framework for the Natura 2000 planning system:
Act on Environmental Objectives for Water Bodies and Internationally Protected Sites
(https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=127102, legal basis for a number of statuatory orders on designation of sites, planning procedures etc.)
II. Legal framework for the appropriate assessment regime (“passive protection” - article 6.3 and 6.4 procedures)
For all relevant legislation within the responsibility of the Ministry of the Environment article 6.3 and 6.4 procedures are laid down in the crosscutting statuatory order no 408 on the Designation and Administration of Internationally Protected Sites and the Protection of Selected Species. This includes art. 6.3 and 6.4 procedures for sector legislation on e.g.
- raw material extraction (except for energy purposes), - water management, incl. ground water extraction - forestry, - marine protection (incl. dumping and authorisation of high speed ferries) - environmental protection (incl. environmental authorisation of enterprices, IPPC etc.), - environmental authorisation of animal farms - watercourses (incl. regulation and use of watercourses) - spatial planning - nature protection - contaminated soil - game and wildlife administration
Please find the statuatory order here: https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=13043
The vast majority of the relevant plans and projects in the open countryside require either the adoption of a spatial plan or an authorisation which are covered by the provisions of this statuatory order.
However, a number of activities in the countryside and within forests do not normally require authorisation etc under Danish law. To ensure an appropriate assessment according to art. 6.3, these activities must, before initiated within a Natura 2000 site, be notified by the landowner to the municipality (outside forests) or the Nature Agency (within forests). These provisions are included in the Nature Protection Act para 19 b and the Forest Act para 17. The notification scheme includes among other things
- clearcutting in and conversion of forests - cultivation of non-protected grasslands
8 - afforestation of agricultural areas in SPA’s - significant changes in the use of manure - significant changes in grazing pressure
Furthermore, several sectoral ministries have included legal frameworks for art. 6.3 and 6.4 procedures on activities for which they are fully responsible and which are not already covered by the environmental legislation mentioned above. The main relevant acts are:
- Act on Fisheries - Act on Roads - Acts on the Use of Underground Resources and the Continental Shelf - Act on Energinet.dk - Acts on Electrical Power Supplies - Act on Renewable Energy - Act on Buildings - Defensal activities (the legal framework included in the Nature Protection Act)
III. Legal framework for pro active measures (art. 6.1 and 6.2)
The above mentioned sector legislation also include provisions for the responsible authorities to take the necessary measures to avoid deterioration (art. 6.2) or the necessary conservation measures (art.6.1). It should be noted that all authorities are legally bound to implement the action programme included in the Natura 2000 Management Plans within their area of competence (further information under chapter C.2).
It cannot totally be ruled out that there may emerge cases where the above mentioned legislation despite the intention to cover all situations cannot cover a necessary measure. The Parliament in 2004 amended the Nature Protection Act to include provisions which authorises the municipalities to take the necessary measures to ensure the implementation of necessary measures (chapter 2 a) in the rare cases where authorities may not be legally bound by other legislation.
9 C.2 Progress and perspectives for management planning for the sites
Progress in establishing Conservation objectives have been established for all SAC’s and SPA’s. The conservation objectives conservation objectives were established with the Danish Government decision from December 2011 on 246 Natura 2000 Management Plans.
% of sites with plans SAC’s (as adopted by the Commission until in 2010) and SPA’s: 100 % completed For 6 marine sites, covering 133,204 hectares or less than 7 % of the total area designated under the Habitats Directive, and adopted as SAC’s since 2010: 0 %. A large part of these SAC’s are also SPA’s and management plans thus may be available, but not for the annex 1 habitats and annex 2 species.
% of sites with plans in The plans for the 6 SAC’s are in preparation for the planning period and will be preparation launched together with the draft revised plans for the sites, for which management plans already exist.
% of sites with no App. 2 % plans
Link to web sites with plans & any guidelines http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/
More background The Ministry of the Environment is responsible for elaborating site specific Natura 2000 information on plans Management Plans, covering all sites and all features for which they are designated. Based on an and comment on other analysis of the conservation status of habitats and species and the threats and actual management needs, the plans set up the framework for the actions to be taken within a 6 year period. instruments/approaches for management The Natura 2000 plan is legally binding upon the authorities and implementation of the plan is planning, information obligatory which follows from the Danish act on conservation objectives. Thus, the competent on and plans for authorities must respect the plans and the conservation objectives and work actively to particular sectors (e.g. implement the plans within the 6 year time frame. forestry etc.) - Which types of measures are used to implement the plans (contracts with stakeholders, regulation of land use, restrictions on activities)
Measures include habitat management (grazing, mowing, removal of scrub etc.), combating invasive alien species, conservation of forest habitats, regulation of disturbing activities, , restoring watercourses and lakes and establishing new ponds, conversion of areas to Natura 2000 habitat, regulation of fishery and coastal protection. Moreover, regulation of airborne nitrogen was undertaken through a revision of the act on domestic animals and enhanced water quality will take place through the implementation of the water plans prepared as part of the implementation of the Water Framework Directive. As the point of departure a number of measures will be agreed upon on a voluntarily basis with land owners (please see below on the Danish programme).
10 - Who is in charge of implementing the management plan? What management structures are in place for this?
The Natura 2000 plans are integrating responsibilities for private and municipality land, state land owners and sector ministries. All authorities are in principle obliged to implement the management plan for which part they are responsible and – if they are in charge of land areas - on their respective land. The Danish approach integrates responsibilities for private and municipality land, state land owners and resort ministries and is based on evidence on conservation status, public participation and a financial framework.
11 C.3 Relevant government and non-governmental plans
Government agreement on Green Growth, setting up the financial framework and ambition level for the Natura 2000 management 2010-15: http://www.mim.dk/Nyheder/Temaer/Groen_vaekst/
National Natura 2000 Management Plans: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/
12 D CURRENT EXPERIENCE WITH USE OF EU FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
D1 European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD)
Provide a summary of allocations under relevant provisions of rural development fund for Natura 2000 management, (as well as other relevant national/regional financing)
Fund Provision Level of Use* EAFRD 216 Clearing of scrubs and VS1 2012-13: 85 mio DKK2 preparation of grazing/mowing (Natura 2000) 214 + 216 Improvement of VS1 2012-2013: 86 mio DKK2 hydrology 224 Forest Natura 2000 payments NU 214 Agri-environment (Natura VS1 2012-13: 419 mio DKK3 2000) 225 & 227 forest-environment VS1 2012-13: 44 mio DKK2 measures 214+216 Establishment and VS management of wetlands (WFD- measures)4 Other relevant (national/regional) payment schemes Projects not eligible under the EU- for Territory funds (including municipial projects and heathland management): Budget for 2013: 50 mio DKK Summary of key Natura 2000 related measures being undertaken under fund:
Agriculture: Measure 213 comprises on-off investments as grants to 1) clearing of scrubs etc. using RFO 1698/2005 articles 41 and 57 under measure codes 216 and 323b, 2) preparation for on-going extensive agriculture, grazing and mowing/cutting, using articles 41 and 57 under measure codes 216b and 323b and 3) reestablishment of natural hydrological conditions using article 41 under measure code 216 b.
1 Please see annex 1 for further specification
2 EU co-financing share included. The figures include the budget for 2012-2013 for the state finances for subsidies under the different payment schemes. Non-used budget from 2011 and 2012 under the payment schemes is presumed used in 2013.
3 EU co-financing share included. The figures include for 2012 actual commitments from the competent authorities to landowners and for 2013 the budget included in the state finances for subsidies under the payment scheme.
4 The budget for these actions will not be specified here as they are closely linked to the WFD implementation. If necessary, data can be provided. They will, however, have positive impact on Natura 2000 sites by contributing to the reduction of nutrients leak. Please note that the National Environmental Complaint Board recently has declared that the Danish River Basin Management Plans, adopted end 2011, are not legally valid, due to a formal procedure related to public consultation. Thus, a final adoption of the RBMP’s, including the legal framework for the actions to be co-financed, is pending, but expected to be clarified within the coming months.
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Measure code 216/216b covers non productive investments and 323b covers conservation and upgrading of the natural and cultural values in rural areas.
Measure 214 comprises different levels of on-going grants to grazing and mowing as 5-year agreements using RFO 1698/2005 article 39 under measure code 214a covering conservation by grazing or cutting on pasture and natural areas.
Forests: Denmark sent by November 2012 a request to the European Commission for a change in the Danish Rural Development Programme concerning measure 225 Forest- environment payments and measure 227 Non-productive investments.
Based on these changes, it is expected that the following measures in particular will be used to the protection of forest habitats and habitats for forest species in Natura 2000 sites.
Measure 225: Support to the following agreements on special management: - Forest habitat-preserving forestry, which include the following requirements: a continuous forest cover, promotion of the characteristic tree species, nature-friendly rejuvenation, no use of fertilizing, liming or pesticides, reduced soil tillage, no increased drainage, preservation of existing dead wood and hollow trees and possibly coppice management or forest grazing. - Preservation of up to 10 indigenous trees per ha, allowing them to die and decay naturally - Restoration of natural hydrology: Compensation of loss of income. - Untouched forest, where all forest management ends in the area.
Measure 227: Support to the following non-productive investments: - Combating invasive species in forests. - Re-establishing natural hydrological conditions in forests. - Preparation for grazing in forests (putting up fences, establishing a water supply or power supply). - Special actions for species in forests covered by the Habitats and Birds Directives.
Water quality related measures3 Further to the specific Natura 2000 measures mentioned above, a number of measures under the RDP have been taken to reduce nutrient loads to marine waters, following the actions decided under the Water Framework Directive5. More than 80 % of the Danish land surface is within a river catchment area of an aquatic (mostly coastal) Natura 2000 site, and all measures taken to reduce nutrient loads to these waters support the improvement of conservation status of aquatic habitats and species. For further information on the relations between the Natura 2000 management and the River Basin Management regimes, please see below under section F.
5 Please note that the National Environmental Complaint Board recently has declared that the Danish River Basin Management Plans, adopted end 2011, are not legally valid, due to a formal procedure related to public consultation. Thus, a final adoption of the RBMP’s, including the legal framework for the actions to be co-financed, is pending, but expected to be clarified within the coming months.
14 Key lessons learnt and obstacles encountered:
213 Natura 2000 payments and 214 agri-environment For a number of habitats, the agri-environment scheme for e.g. one-off clearing of scrubs etc. and recurrent management (grazing etc.), costs are unfortunately not eligible under the RDR. This includes important habitats like heath land, bog and dune habitats.
Despite a successful cooperation on communication to farmers on the new agri-environmental schemes between the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry of Environment and the Danish Agriculture and Food Council, there has been rather limited uptake of the funding possibilities from landowners. A possibility to support direct communication and facilitation through the RDP could probably have been helpful in order to increase the uptake.
As for the well known subsidy scheme for grazing and mowing, the level of payment/ha has been heavily critizised for being far to low, compared to the actual costs related to the management of small, fragmented habitats.
In a country like Denmark where the habitats in many cases are fragmented, it would have been very helpful if land consolidation schemes could have been supported under the RDP, e.g. in combination with a single payment scheme for less intensive cultivation of arable land or for setting aside land for nature purposes.
Forests: The Danish legislation on the Natura 2000 forest measures prescribes that the actions to be taken to conserve and protect Natura 2000 forest habitats should be based on permanent contracts with the forest owners, paying one-off compensation for the reduction of the real estate value following the implementation of the necessary conservation measures. In relation to the very long term measures to be taken in forests, one-off seems to be the most attractive for forest owners. It has so far not been possible to get a formal approval by the Commission to launch such compensation programme under the Danish RDP.
Alternatively, a number of measures have been established and included in the Danish RDP in order, based on a time limited 20 year compensatory subsidy scheme with annual payments, covering costs related to the measure and loss of income. It is expected that these alternatives will reduce the forest owner’s interest in and willingness to establish such measures.
* Where estimates are available they should be provided. Otherwise indicate as VS Very significant; MU Moderate Use; MI Minor use; NU No use
15 D.2 European Fisheries Fund (EFF)
Provide a summary of allocations under Axis 1-4 of EFF used for Natura 2000 management, (as well as other relevant national/regional funding)
Fund Provision Level of Use* EFF Axis 1 Axis 2 Axis 3 VS 2012-13: 138 mio DKK6 Axis 4 Other (national/regional) payment schemes for Territory Summary of key Natura 2000 related measures being undertaken under fund:
A few projects concerning fisheries management in Natura 2000 areas have been financed under the EMFF, in total app. 6 mio DKK. Furthermore, the implementation of the River Basin Management Plans includes measures, for which funding under the EFF has been provided7. These measures are included in the revised Danish Operational Programme for 2012-2013 under Axis 3, specified as measure 3 "Restoration of rivers and streams" in chapter 6.6.5 "Protection and development of aquatic fauna and flora". The Commission has confirmed these measures to be eligible under the EFF.
A number of the specific project applications under this measure concerns rivers or streams within Natura 2000 sites to the explicit benefit for riverine habitats and species, for which these sites are designated and should be mentioned here. Furthermore, a number of project applications are related to watercourses outside Natura 2000 sites, but where the measures taken can be of relevance for habitats and species.
Key lessons learnt and obstacles encountered:
Where estimates are available they should be provided. Otherwise indicate as VS Very significant; MU Moderate Use; MI Minor use; NU No use
6 EU co-financing share included. The figures include the budget for 2012-2013 on the state finances for subsidies under the payment schemes. Non-used budget from 2012 under the payment schemes is presumed used in 2013.
7 Please note that the National Environmental Complaint Board recently has declared that the Danish River Basin Management Plans, adopted end 2011, are not legally valid, due to a formal procedure related to public consultation. Thus, a final adoption of the RBMP’s, including the legal framework for the actions to be co-financed, is pending, but expected to be clarified within the coming months.
16 D.3 Structural Funds and the Cohesion Fund
Provide a summary of allocations under relevant provisions of structural funds used for Natura 2000 management, (as well as other relevant national/regional funding)
Fund Provision Level of Use* ERDF Category 51 Category 55 Category 56 INTERREG MU European Social Fund (ESF) Summary of key Natura 2000 related measures being undertaken under fund: A limited number of projects dedicated to nature have been launched under the Interreg Programme.
Key lessons learnt and obstacles encountered: The Danish experience in the use of Regional Funds is very limited and could be explored further in the upcoming Financial Period.
Where estimates are available they should be provided. Otherwise indicate as VS Very significant; MU Moderate Use; MI Minor use; NU No use
17 D.4 LIFE+
Provide a summary of allocations under LIFE+ for Natura 2000 management,
Fund Provision Level of Use* LIFE+ Nature and Biodiversity VS 2007-11: 11 Nature and Biodiversity projects (including 1 Information project) amounts to m 30.1 €, whereof m 17 have been granted from the LIFE+ programme. 73 % of the LIFE+ grants obtained by Denmark have been targeted to nature projects. Summary of key Natura 2000 related measures being undertaken under fund:
The projects are targeted towards the following nature types
Dry grassland 3 Raised bogs 3 Wet grassland 2 Alkaline fens 1 Riparian nature 1 Information re. farmers’ N2000 management 1
Key lessons learnt and obstacles encountered:
It is the general experience that the projects have been successful in the sense that they deliver improved conservation status for the sites targeted. The “AfterLIFE” plan ensures the up- keeping of the improved status.
The project organisation of the LIFE programme makes it very efficient as a dedicate project organisation may be established. It is, however, at times causing a “stand-alone” approach, to which also contributes the concept of negative complementarity to avoid double financing.
Where estimates are available they should be provided. Otherwise indicate as VS Very significant; MU Moderate Use; MI Minor use; NU No use
18 D.5 Other key funding sources
Fund Level of Use* 7th Framework Programme for Research (FP7) Public/Private Partnership financing schemes Use of innovative financing Other (specify) Summary of key Natura 2000 related measures being undertaken under fund:
Key lessons learnt and obstacles encountered:
Where estimates are available they should be provided. Otherwise indicate as VS Very significant; MU Moderate Use; MI Minor use; NU No use
19 E Current estimate of financial needs for management of Natura 2000 for the territory
The following information has earlier been communicated to the Commission, following the latest Habitats Directive article 8 CION exercise in order to get an overall EU estimate of the financial needs for Natura 2000 management.
The Danish estimate is based on the work done in relation to the Government decision within the framework of the Green Growth Agreement which covers the period 2010-15. Please find more information below in section F and annex 4 on the more specific financial conditions. Implementing the Green Growth Agreement in 2014-2015 will depend on the final EU co- financing framework within the MFF and the final national priorities related to the national programmes under the different EU funds.
A consolidated estimate on the annual costs for the period 2016-20 has not yet been established. Please see section F for more qualitative considerations on the perspectives for the period 2016-20.
20 F STRATEGIC CONSERVATION PRIORITIES FOR NATURA 2000 FOR THE TERRITORY FOR PERIOD 2014-2020
F.1 Summary of priorities for period (and expected outcomes), for priority habitat types and species having regard to the to the need for measurable progress on the nature sub-target under EU 2020 biodiversity strategy and for ensuring good functioning of Natura 2000 network (SACs + SPAs)
Denmark elaborates Natura 2000 management plans for each Natura 2000 site. The plans are issued for a six year period during which the actions decided in the plans are to be implemented, copying the planning concept from the Water Framework Directive. The Natura 2000 plans are legally binding and the competent authorities are bound to take the necessary measures to implement the plans. The plans cover both SAC’s and SPA’s.
After 6 years, the plans will be revised in order to take into account the actual conservation status of species and habitats and to decide which further management measures should be adopted, meeting the conservation objectives (favourable conservation status). Further information on the legal framework, the planning procedures, including public consultation, and the actual plans site by site can be found here (only in Danish): http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Natura2000/Natura_2000_planer/
Strategic priorities 2011-15 The actual plans run until 2015 (included) and are to be replaced by revised plans by the end of 2015. The revised plans will cover the period 2016-21. Thus the actual plans cover the first two years of the upcoming EU budget period, including site specific action programmes based on the specific management needs and challenges in terms of both recurring management and nature restoration.
The elaboration of the plans was based on a set of governmentally adopted strategic priorities, issued as guidelines, prioritising the actions to be included in the plans for habitats and species for which the sites are designated. The guidelines can be found here (in Danish): http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/NR/rdonlyres/0D8D570E-AC8C-46C1-99F1- 0AB004FF848A/113208/Retningslinjer_Natura2000.pdf.
The strategic priorities do not distinguish explicitly between prioritised and non-prioritised habitats and species. However, the conservation status of the 13 priority habitats and the two priority species occurring in Denmark triggered in almost all sites with priority habitats and species management actions to be included in the plans (for further specifications, please se below). Already, major steps have been taken regarding in the recent years, e.g. for the priority species the North Sea Houting (Coregonus oxyrhyncus), including the so far second largest restoration project in Denmark, supported by LIFE-Nature (LIFE05 NAT/DK/000153), and a number of projects aimed at restoration of raised bogs, e.g. the large on going project in Lille Vildmose (LIFE10 NAT/DK/000102).
The strategic priorities were based on the overall EU 2010 biodiversity goal: to halt the decline in biodiversity. The main priorities were:
21 1) Safeguarding the actual conservation status of existing habitats and habitats for species This priority includes measures for continuous active management of a broad range of habitats, covering a large proportion of the areas with existing habitats and habitats for species. The overall objective is to ensure that the area of the habitats is not reduced and that the conservation status is not deteriorated. In most cases the habitats are protected by law but not by deterioration following natural succession, invasive alien species, bad hydrology etc.
Measures include in particular grazing or mowing of grassland, heaths and other habitats, dependent on agricultural praxis, but also the conservation of forest habitats, raised bogs and dune habitats. The plans identified a wide range of one-off actions necessary in order to safeguard the existing habitats, typically the need to clear scrubs and semi-wooded areas or to restore natural hydrology.
2) Safeguarding the conservation status of fragmented habitats and biotopes Due to the extensive agricultural use of the Danish landscape, a number of the habitats within the Natura 2000 sites are quite small and fragmented with a conservation status severely influenced by the surrounding land use, e.g. grassland habitats and heaths. To ensure the conservation status of these habitats, the plans identify needs to link fragmented habitats, to reduce the impact from the surrounding areas by establishing buffer zones etc.
In most cases the actions to fulfil this priority can be launched within the Natura 2000 sites. However, in some cases actions outside a Natura 2000 site are necessary.
3) Establishing long term protection of habitats, covered by interim protection measures (terrestrial), or not protected (marine) A number of habitats are covered by protection measures which are inappropriate in terms of a long term protection. This includes forest habitats, grassland habitats and small habitats not covered by the general habitat protection of the Nature Protection Act (para 3). Land owners are obliged to notify any changes in the land use of these habitats to the competent authority which has to assess the change under art. 6.3 of the Habitats Directive and if necessary take action and decide specific protective measures (Nature Protection Act para 19 b and Forest Act para 17). From both an authority and landowners point of view a more long term protection would be appropriate in order to avoid the heavy administrative burden and the uncertainties related to the notification arrangements.
Furthermore, the marine habitats reefs and submarine structures created by leaking gas (habitat types 1170 and 1180) are not protected from impact from fisheries activities and it has been decided that they should be covered by site specific protection.
4) Special actions for threatened habitats and species According to the Danish Article 17 report, a number of habitats and species are at an unfavourable conservation status with very bad near future prospects. These habitats and species are together with priority habitats at a unknown or bad conservation status (to some extent overlap between the two categories) prioritised together with the above mentioned under 1-3. This includes alkaline fens (7230), Firebellied Toad (Bombina bombina) and the Hermite Beetle (Osmoderma eremita). The plans also include actions
22 for threatened breeding bird species like the Southern Dunlin (Calidris alpina schinzii), the Black Tern (Chlidonias nigra) and the Ruff (Philomachus pugnax)
Expected outcome of the implementation of the measures decided with the adoption of the Natura 2000 management plans – 2014-2015
Below are listed the most important and rather specific conservation measures decided with the adoption of the Natura 2000-plans. In section G and the attached annex 4, the measures are broken down into the different EU-co-financing instruments which are budgeted as financing means in 2012-13 or which are potential funding sources for 2014- 15, dependent on the outcome of the MFF negotiations and the following national priorities in the national programmes under the different funding mechanisms.
The measures adopted were:
– Better maintenance of habitats, especially grasslands and heathlands on app. 140,000 ha, which require clearing of scrubs, grazing, mowing or the like
- Better hydrology on 16,000 ha wet heathlands, humid meadows etc.
– Permanent protection of and restoration of natural conditions on 20.000 ha forest habitats.
– Raised bogs (7110): Enlarge the current habitat area on 4,000 ha by app. 30%.
– Alkaline fens (7230): Enlarge the current habitat area on 2,500 ha by app. 30 %.
– Reefs (1170) and marine structures made by leaking gases (1180): Establish measures to prevent destruction of the habitats. The Ministry for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries is as competent authority working actively on proposals for the reduction of harmful fisheries.
– Analyse the need for further measures to reduce disturbing activities for species, including birds, in all sites and propose measures where necessary to be implemented by the end of 2015 (e.g. by reducing disturbance of species by establishing further disturbance free core zones).
– Restore and establish an extensive number of breeding sites for amphibians (fire- bellied toad and great crested newt)
A large proportion of the Danish Natura 2000 sites are aquatic and the conservation status of aquatic species and habitats in these sites are dependent on the fundamental quality of watercourses, lakes and marine waters. The measures decided with the adoption of the River Basin Management Plans to be implemented before the end of 2015 are of great importance to support the work towards favourable conservation status. 85 % of the Danish land surface is within a river catchment area, running off to a coastal Natura 2000 site, and large parts of a number of central water courses and biologically important lakes are designated as Natura 2000 sites.
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Please note that the National Environmental Complaint Board recently has declared that the Danish River Basin Management Plans, adopted end 2011, are not legally valid, due to a formal procedure related to public consultation. Thus, a final adoption of the RBMP’s, including the legal framework for the actions to be co-financed, is pending, but the further process is to be clarified within the coming months.
When adopting the Natura 2000 plans in 2011 it was decided that the actions related to the fundamental quality of freshwater and marine habitats most appropriately could be integrated in the RBMP’s, following the same timeline as the Natura 2000 management plans.
The main contribution of the River Basin Management Plans is the reduction of nutrients and the restoration of natural conditions in water courses. The actions decided were
– to improve the water quality by the reduction of nutrient leaks to Danish coastal waters (9,000 tonnes nitrate and 210 tonnes phosphorous)
– to restore 5,300 km rivers and streams by reducing maintenance and removing dams etc. Many of the rivers to be restored are found within or in connection to water courses in Natura 2000 sites.
Besides these pro-active measures, the Danish legislation on the authorisation of animal farms has been amended in order to contribute significantly to the reduction of ammonia deposition on Natura 2000 sites by setting up strict standards on deposition levels on mapped, vulnerable habitats. These measures which will be implemented for all animal farms which consider changes in production and will reduce the overall ammonia emissions from animal farms on Natura 2000 sites significantly.
Such measures decided beyond the Natura 2000 management plans are expected to provide substantial support the achievement of measurable improvements in conservation status or population level for both priority and non-priority habitats and species within and beyond the Natura 2000 network.
For a number of species and habitats, the effect on the quality is expected to be measureable immediately after taking the measure, e.g. the restoration of a natural hydrology will have an immediate effect on the structure of habitats requiring dependent on humid soil. Furthermore, measurable progress in the reduction of central pressure factors will be possible, e.g. the reduction in nutrients leaked or deposited.
However, depending on the level of degradation of the area restored or the ecology of the species, the function or structure of the habitat and the effect of pressure factors, which are beyond national measures (e.g. deposition of nutrients from other member states), the effect on conservation status or population level may not be measurable before the end of or beyond the planning period.
Perspectives for strategic priorities for the next Natura 2000-planning period 2016-21
The first generation of Natura 2000 management plans, covering 2011-15, is designed to halt the decline in biodiversity by specific actions for habitats and species, covered by the Natura
24 2000 network, primarily by establishing on-going management and restoring the natural conditions for habitats and species.
The next generation of Natura 2000 management plans will have to reflect the overall obligations of the directives to continuously work towards and maintaining a favourable conservation status, including the necessary measures to restore a favourable conservation status.
Terrestrial habitats Some of the measures taken before 2016 will have a permanent positive impact on the habitats and species, e.g. the measures taken to protect forest habitats, to restore natural hydrology, to enlarge existing habitats and to reduce the impact from disturbing activities.
Other measures established, e.g. the on-going management of grasslands, are necessary to carry out continuously yearly if the legally binding objective of maintaining or restoring favourable conservation status is to be met. Contracts on on-going management under the RDP in 2012-13 and the probable use of similar possible funding instruments during the period 2014-2015, dependent on the potential financing sources under the final MFF and the will continue throughout most of the period covered by the PAF. Further needs for on-going measures beyond 2015 will require the establishment of similar possible financing sources.
In order to meet the conservation provisions of the Habitats and Birds Directives, further steps need to be decided. Decisions on which steps to be included will be based on the implementation experience from the first planning period, the knowledge on the actual conservation status of habitats and species, the results reflected on ground and the financial framework and national priorities established.
A relevant focus for the planning period 2016-21 would be to support the long term maintenance and improvement of the conservation status of a number of habitats by e.g. further reducing the impact from surrounding pressures by establishing buffer areas around mapped habitats, by enlarging the habitats area or further improving hydrology. [This approach could also include linking fragmented habitats in order to optimise them as economically viable manageable areas in terms of grazing/mowing etc.]
Another major focus could be on supporting species conservation status by enhancing the connectivity between Natura 2000 sites, e.g. by establishing green corridors, and by identifying the need for further long term improvements of the quality of habitats for species with ecological requirements which are not covered by the existing management measures.
Another major continuous challenge in relation to the management of Danish habitats is the deterioration caused by invasive alien species, This includes a number of prioritised sand dune and heathland habitats and solutions for permanently reducing the impact of IAS on these non-agricultural habitats should be sought, following the one off clearings of scrubs etc. which is already foreseen to take place before 2016.
Aquatic habitats The fundamental measures necessary to improve the water quality of aquatic Natura 2000 habitats within the first planning period 2011-15 are expected to be implemented based on the final RBMP’s (see section G.1.a, G.1.c, G.1.d and annex 1 for further information on the possible use of EU co financing instruments for this purpose until 2016, dependent on the
25 final financial framework (MFF) and the national priorities in the programmes under the different funds).
This includes substantial reduction in nutrient loads from agriculture and the restoration of the physical environment of watercourses and river banks.
It is expected that further reduction of nutrients leak and the physical restoration of freshwater habitats will similarly be in focus in the action programmes for the planning period 2016-27, following the planning periods from the Water Framework Directive. However, if the general improvement of the water quality following these actions under the WFD shows insufficient in relation to specific Natura 2000 sites, the need for further measures to be taken within the framework of the Natura 2000 planning system cannot be excluded.
As mentioned earlier, measures are to be taken during the first planning period to prevent the physical destruction of reefs and bubble-reefs by regulating bottom trawl fisheries. Following experience from the LIFE-project Blue Reef (Life project no LIFE06Nat/DK/000159) and from scientific evidence of general positive impact on biodiversity, including fish stocks, and the reduction of nutrient loads, it is considered to further explore the possibilities of restoring reefs. Depending on the progress in techniques and the possibilities for EU co-financing for this economically quite heavy measure, this may be included as a measure for a few sites in the upcoming planning period 2016-21.
Potential fields for action 2016-20
To sum up, actions for the next planning period to further support meeting the obligations towards maintaining and restoring af favourable conservation status for species and habitat could include
- Continuation and – on areas not already covered – establishment of on-going management - to reduce fragmentation of habitats and habitats for species by improving connectivity, e.g. by linking sites and establishing ecological corridors – an action which actually is carried out rather scarcely. - to continue to clear natural habitats from scrubs and trees - to combat the impact from invasive alien species, especially in coastal sites like dunes, - to restore or establish habitats for threatened species, e.g. the Hermite Beetle, a number of breeding birds, freshwater mussel species. - continuous, enforced and improved management of the new nature area following the actions in first planning period; optimise the management on the existing managed sites towards obtaining a favourable conservation status. The management during 2. planning period must be consolidated and further extended to ensure maintenance or restoration of a favourable conservation status. - to improve water quality in sites which are not either covered by the actions under the Water Framework Directive or where higher quality objectives than set by the WFD are necessary to meet the provisions under the nature directives
26 Process towards Natura 2000 management plans 2016-20 The process towards a new generation of Natura 2000 management plans is only at its very beginning. Draft plans are to be launched for public consultation end 2014 and the plans are to be adopted end 2015, replacing the current plans.
Furthermore, the possibilities for co-financing Natura 2000 in the final EU regulations under the MFF will be of substantial importance for the further implementation.
Finally, the results of the reporting under the Habitats Directive art. 17 and the Birds Directive art. 12 which will be launched during 2013 is expected to deliver substantial input for prioritising future actions.
F.2 Summary of priorities for other habitats and species covered by nature Directives having regard to the need for to measurable progress on nature sub- target under EU 2020 biodiversity strategy (Habitats and Birds Directives) and for ensuring good functioning of Natura 2000 network (SACs + SPAs)
A number of nature protection measures beyond Natura 2000 have been decided by the Danish Government with the Green Growth Agreement in 2010, covering the period from 2011-15. The agreement included the measures for Natura 2000 described above, but also a number of measures dedicated habitats outside Natura 2000. Parallelly, other initiatives already launched or launched since Green Growth are expected to contribute.
Measures for active management of 40.000 ha habitats outside Natura 2000. The Danish Nature Protection Act includes provisions which throughout the country prohibits the change of the natural conditions in a number of habitats of certain sizes, e.g. lakes > 100 m2 and bogs, salt marshes, natural grasslands and heaths > 2500 m2. Most of these generally protected habitats constitute or include natural habitats or habitats for species covered by the annexes of the Habitats and Birds Directives.
The prohibition does not include provisions for active management of the habitats. However, the protection prevents further intensification of management. 40 % of these generally protected habitats are found within the Natura 2000 sites, and thus covered by the pro-active measures mentioned above under section F.1.
However, it was included in the Green Growth Agreement that also 40.000 ha generally protected habitats outside Natura 2000 should be covered by a measure for grazing and cutting in either RDP or an article 68 measure (excess single payment funding), focused on managing the habitats. These 40.000 ha constitutes 27 % of the habitat area requiring active management. As the habitats also outside Natura 2000 are core areas for biodiversity, this can contribute substantially to the improvement of conservation status of habitats and species. For more information on RDP and art. 68 measures, please read here: http://2.naturerhverv.fvm.dk/default.aspx?ID=53977 http://2.naturerhverv.fvm.dk/Default.aspx?ID=78511
27 Establishing 50.000 ha of non-cultivated buffer zones along environmentally valuable watercourses. Mainly designed for reducing runoff of nutrients from cultivated areas to the aquatic environment, the decision on establishing buffer zones along water courses throughout the country can support a wider countryside protection of biodiversity. The establishment of the buffer zones is included in the Danish RDP, giving possibilities for compensation for landowners. The buffer zones can be viewed here: http://1.naturerhverv.fvm.dk/randzoner.aspx?ID=14668
Subsidies for establishing breeding or roosting sites for selected Annex IV-species The Nature Agency has elaborated species action plans for a number of annex IV-species as supportive measures in relation to the prohibitive measures following from the Habitats Directive article 12. A specific subsidy scheme has been established for the threatened species the natterjack toad (Bufo calamita) and the green toad (Bufo viridis (variabilis). Read more here: http://2.naturerhverv.fvm.dk/saerlige_levesteder_for_dyrearter.aspx?ID=65154
Subsidies for the establishment and management of wetlands and restoration of watercourses As a part of the general actions on reducing leak of nutrients to the aquatic environment and to restore natural hydraulics and conditions in watercourses, a number of measures have been taken to support the establishment of wetlands which will contribute significantly to the water quality of marine areas and the biodiversity related to these areas. A number of subsidy schemes for state and local authorities has been established, to a large extend co-financed by RDP. These measures are already mentioned above under the Natura 2000-priorities, but are of great relevance for the general natural conditions of habitats and species under the nature directives.
Please find the subsidy schemes here: Wetlands: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Naturprojekter/Projekttyper/Vandprojekter/De n_kommunale-vaadomraadeindsats/for_kommuner/
Restoration of water courses: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Naturprojekter/Projekttyper/Vandprojekter/Va ndloebsrestaurering/
Reduction of pesticides loads in the open countryside (general measure) Please find further information here (in Danish): http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/f11990fd#/f11990fd/30
Supporting multiple forests, afforestation etc. Further to the Natura 2000 forest subsidy scheme, a subsidy scheme for afforestation on privately owned land (look here: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Skov/Privat/Tilskud+til+privatskove/Skovrejs ning/ ) has been established.
Also a subsidy scheme for optimising biodiversity conditions in forests has been established (look here: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Skov/Privat/Tilskud+til+privatskove/Artikel12 and /http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Skov/Privat/Tilskud+til+privatskove/Praksis/)
28 , which among other things opens the possibility to support improvement of habitats for common dormouse or bats.
Optimising state owned land for biodiversity The Nature Agency is in charge of large areas, covered by natural and seminatural habitats, including app. 1/3 of the national area with forests. For all areas, detailed management plans area prepared (for areas within Natura 2000 sites, please see other sections of the PAF).
The plans includes targeted protective measures for threatened and vulnerable species and habitats and pro-active management measures for the benefit of biodiversity and the wider public.
More information can be found here: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/Naturbeskyttelse/Skov/Statsskovene/
F.3 Strategic priorities in relation to investments in Natura 2000 linked to green tourism and jobs, to support climate change mitigation and adaptation or other ecosystem benefits, for research, education, training, awareness and promotion of co-operation (including cross-border) linked to Natura 2000 management
Climate change – sea level rise Climate change has potentially severe impact on e.g. coastal habitats. The impact – except from the more frequent storms etc - will probably not be visible before 2020. However, preparatory steps have to be taken and DK intend to initiate a project, identifying different scenarios, delivering proposals for mitigation and adaption in terms of the protection of species and habitats in Natura 2000 network and scrutinising the potential for the highest possible integration with climate change adaptation in other sectors.
29 G Description of key measures to achieve priorities
G.1.a General Priority Measures for Natura 2000
Type of activity Description of measure Target Potential Financing sources* species/habitats/sites One-off costs Preparation before on-going management through Grassland habitats, salt 2014-15: Already decided financial grazing (e.g. fencing, electricity, irrigation marshes, meadows and framework: Please see attached annex facilities) fens etc. with related 4 species 2016-20: EAFRD/national, ,dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
One-off costs Restoration of degraded terrestrial habitats (e.g. Grassland habitats, salt 2014-15: Already decided financial improved hydrology, clearing of scrubs etc.) marshes, meadows and framework: Please see attached annex. fens, dune habitats, forests heathland etc. with related Heathland and dune habitats are not species eligible under the current RDP-regime
2016-20: EAFRD/national, dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
LIFE+/national/private (larger projects).
30
One-off costs Restoration of degraded aquatic habitats (e.g. Marine (coastal) habitats natural hydraulics in water courses by removal of and species 2014-15: Already decided financial dams and recreation of meanders, restoring Freshwater habitats and framework. Please see attached annex reclaimed lakes or marine areas, reef habitats etc.) species 4
2012-13: EFF/national: 69 mio DKK/year 2014-15: National resources at same level allocated, dependent on EU co- financing possibilities
2016-20: Possible EMFF/national EARFD/national (flooded/humid adjacent agricultural areas) ,dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities LIFE+ /national/private (larger projects) ,dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities One-off costs Compensation for long term conservation of All terrestrial and LIFE+ natural habitats freshwater habitats EAFRD/national (terrestrial) ,dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
31
One-off costs Land purchase for restoring or enlarging habitats, All habitats and species 2014-15: Already decided financial eventually state 1 purchase of farmland with the framework: Please see attached annex intention to re-sell with easement drawn on the 4 land to ensure the permanent conversion of farming of the land into extensive agricultural 2016-20: practises EAFRD/national (terrestrial) and EMFF (aquatic) (not eligible under the current regulations), dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
LIFE+ (large projects)/national/private
One-off costs Eradication of invasive alien species Habitats/species ??? One-off costs Reduction of disturbance of species All relevant species 2012-15: National Recurring costs Management of habitats dependent on on-going Grassland habitats, salt 2014-15: Already decided financial management (grazing, mowing etc), preferably marshes, meadows and framework: Please see attached annex from ecological reasons ensuring long term fens etc. with related 4 management. species 2016-20: EAFRD/national,dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
Single payment Supporting landowners interest in participating in All habitats and species EAFRD – art. 34, dependent on the scheme and Natura 2000 management by sustaining the actual related to areas, potentially EU-cofinancing possibilities and the Natura 2000 possibility to obtain single payment subsidies covered by agro- national priorities under the article 34 exception together with e.g. environmental measures agro-environmental measures under the coming EAFRD targeted for the implementation of Natura 2000 objectives *Funding sources: EAFRD; ERDF, EFF; ESF, LIFE, National public, Private sources
32
G.1.b Priority Measures for Natura 2000 agricultural and forest habitats and species
Type of activity Description of measure Target species/habitats/sites Potential Financing sources* Ongoing Grazing, mowing etc. Grassland habitats, salt marshes, 2014-15: Already decided management of meadows and fens etc. with related financial framework. Please see grassland, species attached annex 4 meadows etc 2016-20: EAFRD/national Preparation Fencing etc. Grassland habitats, salt marshes, before on-going meadows and fens etc. with related management species Clearing of One-off clearing of scrubs etc. Grassland habitats, salt marshes, 2014-15: Already decided habitats meadows and fens etc. with related financial framework. Please see (grasslands etc) species attached annex 4
2016-20: EARFD/national,dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities Clearing of One-off clearing of scrubs etc. Heathland habitats heathlands and National (actually not eligible dune habitats under RDP) Potentially EAFRD/national, ,dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
2014-15: Already decided financial framework. Please see attached annex 4
33 Improvement of One-off costs to stop drainage of habitats by Meadows, salt marshes, 2014-15: Already decided hydrology of removing drain pipes, closing ditches etc. surroundings of lakes and financial framework. Please see humid habitats watercourses attached annex 4 (e.g. meadows) 2016-2020: EARFD/national,dependent on the EU-cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities Enlarging and One-off costs for the establishment of new Grassland habitats 2014-15: Already decided safeguarding habitats area or buffer zones, e.g. by converting financial framework. Please see grassland habitats farmland into extensive practises , if necessary attached annex 4 followed by on-going management 2016-2021: EAFRD/National, dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities Conservation of Restrictions on the future management of forests, Forest habitats and related species 2014-15: Already decided forest habitats including conservation of old trees (including hermite beetle) financial framework. Please see One-off compensation payment for permanent attached annex 4 and un reversible conversion of forestry into extensive practices. 2016-20: EARFD/national, Compensation for commitment to permanently dependent on the EU- renounce commercial use of trees and forests in cofinancing possibilities and the order to ensure long term conservation of natural national priorities habitats.
34
Restoration of Active management to support natural Forest habitats and related species 2014-15: Already decided forest habitats ecosystems, including the establishment of financial framework. Please see clearings attached annex 4
2016-20: EARFD/national, dependent on the EU-co- financing possibilities and the national priorities
Reduction of An authorisation regime which includes general Dune habitats, heathland habitats, - nutrient loads – reduction of ammonia loads bogs, certain lakes ammonium loads
*Funding sources: EAFRD; ERDF, EFF; ESF, LIFE, National public, Private sources
G.1.c Priority Measures for Natura 2000 marine and coastal habitats and species
Type of activity Description of measure Target species/habitats/sites Potential Financing sources* Ongoing Grazing, fencing and mowing (same as above) Salt marshes and related species 2014-15: Already decided management of financial framework. Please salt marshes and see attached annex 4 the preparation for grazing etc. 2016-20: EAFRD/national, dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
Regulation of To protect submarine habitats from trawl Reefs and bobble reefs Probably no costs trawl fisheries fisheries
35
Clearing of dune Removal of scrubs etc., most often removal of Dune habitats (several priority 2014-15: Already decided habitats invasive alien species by mowing, by hand or by habitats) and related species financial framework. Please machines see attached annex 4 Actually not eligible under EU subsidy schemes
2016-20: EAFRD/national? , dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
Restoration of Many sites include land reclamation areas which Marine habitats, including 2016-20: former marine could be restored back to marine conditions lagoons, salt marshes (interface LIFE+ (pilot projects) areas with marine areas) INTERREG? Establishment of As a part of the RBMP a number of wetlands for Coastal habitats 2014-15: Already decided wetlands for the de-nitrification or for retaining phosphorous will financial framework. Please reduction of be established outside Natura 2000, but see attached annex 4 nutrients contribute substantially to reduce eutrophication effects in coastal waters 2016-20: EAFRD/national, dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
Regulation of Based on an overall analysis of the SPA’s and Seals, breeding birds, migratory 2013-15: National disturbing SAC’s to identify sites where disturbing birds and their habitats activities activities have negative impact on species and where
*Funding sources: EAFRD; ERDF, EFF; ESF, LIFE, National public, Private sources
36
G.1.d Priority Measures for Natura 2000 wetlands habitats and species (including peatlands)
Type of activity Description of measure Target species/habitats/sites Potential Financing sources* Restoration of Improving hydrology conditions and clearing of Raised bogs and related species LIFE+Nature/national/private raised bogs scrubs and trees sources Establishment of Establish or restore ponds for amphibians Firebellied toad, great crested 2014-15: Financial ponds newt, dragonflies, framework. Please see attached annex 4
2016-20? Restoration of Restoring meanders of water courses and natural Riverine habitats and related LIFE+ Nature/national natural hydraulics river banks species etc. 2016-20: If possible under EMFF: Potentially EMFF/national, dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities Restoration of Removing dams, opening water courses in pipes, Riverine habitats and related 2014-15: Financial natural hydraulics recreating fish spawning areas and restoring species framework. Please see etc. – water natural dynamics attached annex 4 courses1) 2016-20: EMFF (dams, pipes, natural substrate)/national EAFRD/national (compensation for flooded areas), dependent on the EU- co-financing possibilities and the national priorities
37 Establishment of As a part of the RBMP, a number of wetlands for Lakes and related species 2014-15: Already decided wetlands for the de-nitrification or for retaining phosphorous will financial framework. Please reduction of be established outside Natura 2000, but see attached annex 4 nutrients contributing to reduce eutrophication effects lakes 2016-20: EAFRD/national, dependent on the EU- cofinancing possibilities and the national priorities
*Funding sources: EAFRD; ERDF, EFF; ESF, LIFE, National public, Private sources
38 G.2 Other priority measures
G.2.a Priority Measures for securing ecosystem benefits of Natura 2000, especially in relation to climate change mitigation and adaptation
Type of activity Description of measure Target species/habitats/sites Potential Financing sources* Research and Analysing the long term impact of sea Salt marshes and shoreline INTERREG??? pilot project level rise on coastal habitats and habitats with related species activity species and possible measures to mitigate and compensate for the impact
*Funding sources: EAFRD; ERDF, EFF; ESF, LIFE, National public, Private sources
G.2.B Priority Measures for promoting sustainable tourism and employment in relation to Natura 2000
Type of activity Description of measure Target species/habitats/sites Potential Financing sources* Promoting eco- tourism
*Funding sources: EAFRD; ERDF, EFF; ESF, LIFE, National public, Private sources
39 G.2.c Priority Measures to promote innovative approaches in relation to Natura 2000
Type of activity Description of measure Target species/habitats/sites Potential Financing sources*
*Funding sources: EAFRD; ERDF, EFF; ESF, LIFE, National public, Private sources
G.3 Summary table of priority measures per habitat type and species8
Feature (habitat type or Conservation status Pressures and threats Priority measure (from section G of PAF, possibly species) (code from HD Article (codes from HD Article by coding) 17 report or BD 17 report or BD Article Article 12 report) 12 report) Grassland habitats and U2 (unfavourable bad) Lack of management Grazing and mowing species (incl. birds) (habitats) (overgrowing with scrubs Reduction of ammonia deposition and tall herbs) Linking fragmented areas Atmospheric deposition (ammonia)
8 Table G.3 sums up some of the main categories of Natura 2000 habitats as used in EIO-net database, for which measures are foreseen. Species are not specified in the table, but their habitats are to a large extent indirectly covered by the habitat groups. The overall conservation status for the group of habitats and the main pressures and threats are listed (not by code). No distinction is made between the two bio-geographical regions as the pressures, threats and measures prioritised are similar for both regions.
40
Heaths and scrubs and U2 (unfavourable bad) Lack of management Clearing of scrubs, incl. invasive alien species related species (habitats) (overgrowing with scrubs Grazing and tall herbs) Reduction of ammonia deposition Invasive alien species Restore natural hydrological conditions Atmospheric deposition Drainage (humid habitats) Bogs, mires and fens and U2 (unfavourable bad) Lack of management Clearing of scrubs, incl. invasive alien species related species (habitats) (overgrowing with scrubs Grazing/mowing and tall herbs) Reduction of ammonia deposition Atmospheric deposition Restore natural hydrological conditions (ammonia) Enlarge habitat surface area (esp. raised bogs) Drainage Dunes habitats and related FV-U2 (favourable- Lack of management Clearing of scrubs, incl. invasive alien species species unfavourable bad) (overgrowing by scrubs Reduction of ammonia deposition (habitats) and tall herbs) Invasive alien species Atmospheric deposition
Forests and related species FV (habitats) Future management Conservation of habitats by establishing long term (silvicultural activities) (non)management measures Freshwater habitats and U2 (unfavourable bad) Eutrophication Reduction of nutrients within river basins species (habitats) Physical conditions Restoration of watercourses (removing dams, (watercourses) supporting natural hydrology, restoring spawning Deteriorated habitats grounds etc.) Restoring or establishing ponds for amphibians Coastal habitats and species U2 (and a number of Eutrophication Reduction of nutrients leak into coastal waters (incl. waterfowl) unknowns) (habitats) Disturbance of species Reduction of disturbance Lack of management Grazing/mowing (overgrowing by scrubs and tall herbs)
41 Marine habitats and species U2 (unfavourable bad) Eutrophication Reduction of nutrients leak into marine waters (habitats) Physical impact from Regulation of fisheries on reef structures. fisheries, including destruction of reefs
42 Doc Hab 12-04/04
Section H: Monitoring, evaluation and updating of PAFs
Dependent on the outcome of national programming of EU-co-financing instruments and the second Natura 2000 planning process, it will be relevant to update the PAF in order to reflect the national priorities and programmes by 2016.
Annex I Habitats included in the Annex I of the Habitat Directive
habitatcode descriptionen habitatpriority Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea 1110 water all the time 1130 Estuaries Mudflats and sandflats not covered by 1140 seawater at low tide 1150 Coastal lagoons * 1160 Large shallow inlets and bays 1170 Reefs 1180 Submarine structures made by leaking gases 1210 Annual vegetation of drift lines 1220 Perennial vegetation of stony banks Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic 1230 Coasts Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud 1310 and sand 1320 Spartina swards (Spartinion maritimae) Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia 1330 maritimae) 1340 Inland salt meadows * 2110 Embryonic shifting dunes Shifting dunes along the shoreline with 2120 Ammophila arenaria ("white dunes") Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous 2130 vegetation ("grey dunes") * 2140 Decalcified fixed dunes with Empetrum nigrum * 2160 Dunes with Hippophaë rhamnoides Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea 2170 (Salicion arenariae) Wooded dunes of the Atlantic, Continental and 2180 Boreal region 2190 Humid dune slacks 2250 Coastal dunes with Juniperus spp. * 2310 Dry sand heaths with Calluna and Genista Dry sand heaths with Calluna and Empetrum 2320 nigrum Inland dunes with open Corynephorus and 2330 Agrostis grasslands Oligotrophic waters containing very few minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia 3110 uniflorae) Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae 3130 and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic 3140 vegetation of Chara spp. Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion 3150 or Hydrocharition - type vegetation 3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho- 3260 Batrachion vegetation
44 Rivers with muddy banks with Chenopodion 3270 rubri p.p. and Bidention p.p. vegetation 4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix 4030 European dry heaths Juniperus communis formations on heaths or 5130 calcareous grasslands 6120 Xeric sand calcareous grasslands * Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco- 6210 Brometalia) (* important orchid sites) Species-rich Nardus grasslands, on silicious substrates in mountain areas (and 6230 submountain areas in Continental Europe) * Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or 6410 clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of 6430 plains and of the montane to alpine levels 7110 Active raised bogs * Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural 7120 regeneration 7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs Depressions on peat substrates of the 7150 Rhynchosporion Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and 7210 species of the Caricion davallianae * Petrifying springs with tufa formation 7220 (Cratoneurion) * 7230 Alkaline fens Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic 8220 vegetation Siliceous rock with pioneer vegetation of the Sedo-Scleranthion or of the Sedo albi- 8230 Veronicion dillenii 8330 Submerged or partially submerged sea caves 9110 Luzulo-Fagetum beech forests Atlantic acidophilous beech forests with Ilex and sometimes also Taxus in the shrublayer 9120 (Quercion robori-petraeae or Ilici-Fagenion) 9130 Asperulo-Fagetum beech forests Medio-European limestone beech forests of 9150 the Cephalanthero-Fagion Sub-Atlantic and medio-European oak or oak- 9160 hornbeam forests of the Carpinion betuli 9170 Galio-Carpinetum oak-hornbeam forests Old acidophilous oak woods with Quercus 9190 robur on sandy plains 91D0 Bog woodland * Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion 91E0 incanae, Salicion albae) *
(* the priority habitat types)
List of the SAC’s and the species for which they are designated can be found here: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/NR/rdonlyres/F25560E6-53A7-4D8D-A85E- D95011480F87/150894/HabitatUdpgr201231Dec.pdf
45 Annex II Species included in the Annex II of the Habitats Directive
speciesname speciescode spgroup annex_ii prior Alosa alosa 1102 Fish -1 Alosa fallax 1103 Fish -1 Anthrenochernes stellae 1936 Invertebrate -1 Barbastella barbastellus 1308 Mammal -1 Bombina bombina 1188 Amphibian -1 Botrychium simplex 1419 Plant -1 Buxbaumia viridis 1386 Plant -1 Cobitis taenia 1149 Fish -1 Coregonus oxyrhynchus 1113 Fish -1 * Cypripedium calceolus 1902 Plant -1 Drepanocladus vernicosus 1393 Plant -1 Dytiscus latissimus 1081 Invertebrate -1 Euphydryas aurinia 1065 Invertebrate -1 Graphoderus bilineatus 1082 Invertebrate -1 Halichoerus grypus 1364 Mammal -1 Lampetra fluviatilis 1099 Fish -1 Lampetra planeri 1096 Fish -1 Leucorrhinia pectoralis 1042 Invertebrate -1 Liparis loeselii 1903 Plant -1 Luronium natans 1831 Plant -1 Lutra lutra 1355 Mammal -1 Margaritifera margaritifera 1029 Invertebrate -1 Misgurnus fossilis 1145 Fish -1 Myotis bechsteini 1323 Mammal -1 Myotis dasycneme 1318 Mammal -1 Najas flexilis 1833 Plant -1 Ophiogomphus cecilia 1037 Invertebrate -1 Osmoderma eremita 1084 Invertebrate -1 * Petromyzon marinus 1095 Fish -1 Phoca vitulina 1365 Mammal -1 Phocoena phocoena 1351 Mammal -1 Salmo salar 1106 Fish -1 Saxifraga hirculus 1528 Plant -1 Triturus cristatus 1166 Amphibian -1 Unio crassus 1032 Invertebrate -1 Vertigo angustior 1014 Invertebrate -1 Vertigo geyeri 1013 Invertebrate -1 Vertigo moulinsiana 1016 Invertebrate -1
List of the SAC’s and the species for which they are designated can be found here: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/NR/rdonlyres/F25560E6-53A7-4D8D-A85E- D95011480F87/150894/HabitatUdpgr201231Dec.pdf
46 Annex III Bird species as features relevant for the designation of SPA’s, The Birds Directive Kommentar [lar3]: This list is not completely updated. A link to the latest overview of bird species (under preparation), which are features to be protected in SPA’s, speciesname speciescode will be included in this annex. Aegolius funereus A223 Alca torda A200 Alcedo atthis A229 Anas acuta A054 Anas clypeata A056 Anas crecca A051 Anas penelope A050 Anser anser A043 Anser brachyrhynchus A040 Anser fabalis A039 Anthus campestris A255 Aquila chrysaetos A091 Asio flammeus A222 Aythya ferina A059 Aythya fuligula A061 Aythya marila A062 Botaurus stellaris A021 Branta bernicla A046 Branta bernicla hrota A047 Branta leucopsis A045 Bubo bubo A215 Bucephala clangula A057 Calidris alba A144 Calidris alpina A149 Calidris canutus A143 Calidris maritima A148 Caprimulgus europaeus A224 Cepphus grylle A202 Charadrius alexandrinus A138 Charadrius morinellus A139 Chlidonias niger A197 Ciconia ciconia A031 Ciconia nigra A030 Circus aeruginosus A081 Circus cyaneus A082 Circus pygargus A084 Clangula hyemalis A064 Crex crex A122 Cygnus columbianus bewickii A037 Cygnus cygnus A038 Cygnus olor A036 Dryocopus martius A236 Falco peregrinus A103 Fulica atra A125 Gavia arctica A002
47 Gavia stellata A001 Gelochelidon nilotica A189 Grus grus A127 Haematopus ostralegus A130 Haliaeetus albicilla A075 Lanius collurio A339 Larus minutus A177 Limosa lapponica A157 Lullula arborea A246 Luscinia svecica A272 Melanitta fusca A066 Melanitta nigra A065 Mergus albellus A068 Mergus merganser A070 Mergus serrator A069 Milvus milvus A074 Numenius arquata A160 Numenius phaeopus A158 Pandion haliaetus A094 Pernis apivorus A072 Phalacrocorax carbo A214 Philomachus pugnax A151 Platalea leucorodia A034 Pluvialis apricaria A140 Pluvialis squatarola A141 Porzana porzana A119 Recurvirostra avosetta A132 Somateria mollissima A063 Sterna albifrons A195 Sterna hirundo A193 Sterna paradisaea A194 Sterna sandvicensis A191 Sylvia nisoria A307 Tadorna tadorna A048 Tetrao tetrix A107 Tringa erythropus A161 Tringa glareola A166 Tringa nebularia A164 Tringa totanus A162 Uria aalge A199 Vanellus vanellus A142
List of the SPA’s and the birds for which they are designated can be found here: http://www.naturstyrelsen.dk/NR/rdonlyres/C22FFDAC-1703-40FD-9F15- 280DDD3A394E/0/FuglUdpgr201231Dec.pdf
48 Annex IV Natura 2000 financial framework for 2014-15 relevant for the expected EU co-financing possibilities
The Danish government adopted in 2011 Natura 2000 Management Plans for 246 sites, based on the overall political agreement, Green Growth, which set up the financial framework for the implementation of the actions decided with the plans. The agreement and the budget for 2014-15 is based on the assumption that EU co-financing possibilities for these purposes will be available also with the new funding instruments. The expected uptake of EU-funds thus is dependent on the EU-co-financing possibilities and the final national priorities.
Natura 2000 actions 2014-15 following the Natura 2000 plans and the expected uptake from EU funds – mio DKK Mio DKK Expected financing source 2014-201 Clearing of scrubs and preparation of grazing/mowing RDP, article 41 and 57 10 Improved hydrologi RDP, article 41 19 Agro-environmental measures (grazing etc) RDP, article 39 21 Forest measures RDP, article 47, 48 og 49 8 LIFE projects etc. LIFE 7 Restoration of watercourses* EFF or RDP, article 38 13 Total 80 * EU co-financing share included. The figures include the expected financial needs for 2014+2015 required for the implementation of the Danish Natura 2000 management plans (2011-2015). It is presumed that the actual budget for 2014-2015 on the state finances for subsidies under the different payment schemes is adjusted to reflect the expected financial needs.
** EU co-financing share included These measures are intended launched as a follow up to the Danish River Basin Management Plans, but also watercourses within Natura 2000 sites will be covered.
Further to this, a budget of total 100 mio DKK for financing actions to the advantage of heath land habitats and to establish smaller nature restoration projects, not eligible under the current funding schemes, has been included in the Green Growth agreement. If possible under the new EU budget, co financing will be considered.
49 DRAFT FORMAT FOR A PRIORITISED ACTION FRAMEWORK (PAF) FOR NATURA 2000
EXPLANATORY NOTES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
A Introductory overview of Natura 2000 network for territory
A.1 Habitat types of Annex I and species of Annex II of the Habitats Directive and Annex I and migratory bird species of Birds Directive for which Natura 2000 sites are designated A.2 Number and area of Natura 2000 sites A.3 Main land use cover and ecosystem categories for Natura 2000 sites
B Status of the Habitats and Species
B.1 Latest assessment of conservation status of species and habitat types for territory B.1.a Habitat types and species of Habitats Directive B.1.b Annex I and migratory Bird Species B.2 Overall assessment of conservation status by Habitat category / species group B.3 Overview of pressures and threats to species and habitats
C Legal & administrative provisions for protection & management of Natura 2000
C.1 Relevant legal provisions C.2 Progress and perspectives for management planning for the sites C.3 Relevant government and non-governmental plans
D Current experience with use of EU financial instruments
D1 European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) D.2 European Fisheries Fund (EFF) D.3 Structural Funds and the Cohesion Fund D.4 LIFE+ D.5 Other key funding sources
E Current estimate of financial needs for management of Natura 2000 for territory
F Strategic conservation objectives & priorities for Natura 2000 for 2014-2020
G Description of key measures to achieve objectives and priorities
H Monitoring, evaluation and updating (to be further developed)
50 Introduction
The establishment of Natura 2000 is now at an advanced stage and the upcoming period will be critical to making the network fully operational through the effective management and restoration of the sites. While the main responsibility for financing Natura 2000 lies with the Member States Article 8 of the Habitats Directive explicitly recognises the need for EU support for management of the sites, through co-financing by Community financial instruments. Article 8 does not specify the types of EU funding which could be used for co- financing. The current approach, set out in a 2004 Commission Communication on financing Natura 2000 for the 2007-2013 financing period9, is to integrate the financing of Natura 2000 into the funding streams of different EU policy sectors. The opportunity to finance Natura 2000 has been specified in the financial regulations of the main policy sectors. The Commission has provided guidance, an IT-tool, and training for each Member State to support the use of this integration approach10. Despite important progress it appears that the EU co-financing opportunities for Natura 2000 are not been fully utilised11.
The Commission's Communication on 'A budget for Europe 2020'12 has set out the framework for future EU financing under the new financial multiannual financial framework, firmly focusing on the delivery of the EU 2020 strategy. In the environment policy fiche attached to the budget communication13 it is recognised that the effective management and restoration of Natura 2000 sites is central to attainment of the EU 2020 biodiversity target and that a strengthened integrated approach using the various EU sectoral funds, ensuring their consistency with the priorities of Natura 2000 action frameworks, together with an enhanced LIFE Biodiversity strand, will provide a strong basis for the new Natura 2000 financing strategy.
The Commission staff working paper of 12 December 2012 provides an overview of relevant provisions for EU co-financing of Natura 2000 in the Commission proposals for the next multi-annual financial framework, underlines the benefits to be gained from effective management of these areas and explains how prioritised action frameworks (PAFs) can serve as strategic planning tools to strengthen the integration of Natura 2000 financing into the use of relevant EU financial instruments for the next programming period14.
Article 8 of the Habitats Directive already foresees the need to develop "a prioritized action framework", to be taken when sites are designated as SACs. This would only be possible on the basis of Member States establishing National and/or regional Natura 2000 prioritised action frameworks (PAFs) for the next financing period. Such an approach will provide a
9 COM(2004) 431 final.
10 http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/financing/index_en.htm
11 A summary of the current integration approach is given in the Commission brochure on 'Investing in Natura 2000 for nature and people' http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/info/pubs/docs/brochures/investing%20in%20N2000%20brochure.pdf
12 COM (2011) 867 final
13 COM(2011) 500 final, page 40
14 SEC(2011) 1573 final
51 clearer framework to set out objectives and priorities, describe the Natura 2000 measures to be financed, identify the potential contribution of each EU fund to the national/regional Natura 2000 network for the next Financial Perspective and set out the prioritised actions to be taken, as well as monitoring and evaluation of the measures supported.
PAFs are intended as planning tools aimed at identifying key priorities and providing an integrated overview of how to achieve them having regard to different financing instruments. Member States will still need to specify their financing needs for Natura 2000 under the relevant plans or programmes. To maximise their influence and the prospect of the uptake under the integration approach such action frameworks will need to be established in advance of the finalisation of the agreement of key programmes for agriculture, fisheries and regional development for the next funding period. The objective is to ensure strategic focus on the most important priorities, as well as complementarity and consistency between the information contained in the prioritised action frameworks and the relevant programmes?
Article 8 of the Directive indicates that PAFs should be prepared at national level. However, Member State may decide to provide a more refined framework at regional level15. As regards the marine environment the PAFs also relate to the offshore marine environment where Member States are exercising sovereign rights.
A. INTRODUCTORY OVERVIEW OF NATURA 2000 NETWORK FOR THE TERRITORY
The aim is to set the context in relation to the species and habitats that are the focus of action, the number and area of Natura 2000 sites for the territory and details of main ecosystem types involved.
A.1 Short introduction to the habitat types of Annex I and species of Annex II of the Habitats Directive and Annex I and migratory bird species for which Natura 2000 sites are designated
The aim is to provide a summary overview of the species and habitat types, indicating in particular the situation regarding priority habitat types and species, and if possible providing an assessment of the importance of the territory for particular species and habitat types.
Potential Sources of information: Article 17 HD summary reports; 2010 BAP national summary reports; National web sites; Important Bird Areas 2000 publication or national IBAs
A.2 Number and area of Natura 2000 sites
The aim is to provide summary statistics for the Natura 2000 network for both the terrestrial and marine environments16. This should be complemented in an Annex to the document (or a
15 In deciding on an appropriate territorial level Member States should have regard to available biological and financial data that is necessary for the evaluation.
16 In accordance with the guidelines for reporting under Article 17 of the Habitats Directive marine sites are defined as any of those which include an area of sea. The Marine area of sites is the area being below the coastline. The definition of the coastline used to define the marine boundary should follow international or national legislation. This approach is the same as adopted for the revised Standard Data Forms (SDFs) for
52 link to a web site) with the most up to date list of SCIs (indicating sites hosting priority habitat types/species), those SCIs already designated SACs, as well as an up to date list of SPAs.
One or more overview maps should also be provided. These can be extracted from the Natura 2000 map viewer (http://natura2000.eea.europa.eu/#), which also provides a link to the standard data form for each Natura 2000 site. Other national GIS data systems may be used as well. Other relevant information, such as the range in the surface areas of the sites , may be provided where this is considered relevant.
Potential Sources of information: Statistics on the number and area of SCIs and SPAs are available from the Natura barometer. Member States will need to indicate to what extent the SCIs have formally been designated as SACs. The overall area for Natura 2000 terrestrial and marine sites can be derived from spatial data in the Natura 2000 database.
A.3 Main land use cover and ecosystem categories for Natura 2000 sites
The aim is to provide an overview for the territory concerned of the main CORINE land cover categories for the Natura 2000 sites (based on spatial boundaries of the sites). This will give an indication of the relative importance of major ecosystem types (e.g. forests, grasslands, marine, wetlands etc) within the Natura 2000 network.
Potential Sources of information: Biodiversity Data Centre of the EEA
B STATUS OF THE HABITATS AND SPECIES
The aim is to summarise the most up to date information on the conservation status of species and habitat types covered by Natura 2000 under both the Habitats and Birds Directive and to present summary information on the main pressures and threats they are facing
B.1 Latest assessment of conservation status of species and habitat types for territory
B.1.a Habitat types and species of Habitats Directive
The objective is to provide the most up to date knowledge on the conservation status of the Annex I habitats and Annex II species. This should be presented for each biogeographical region covered by the Region concerned. This should also be complemented by the summary assessment of the parameters for favourable conservation status
Sources of information: This will largely be based on data extracted from the Habitats Directive Article 17 assessment17.
individual Natura 2000 sites. Thus, a site located at the coastline and stretching out into the sea should be counted as a ‘marine site’, although it might include a terrestrial component.
17 The Article 17 Habitats Directive conservation status assessment has been carried out for EU 25 and does not cover Bulgaria and Romania, for which other relevant sources of information will need to be used. The summary data is also provided at national level and for regional PAFs there will be a need for further analysis
53 B.1.b Annex I and migratory Bird Species
For bird species there is as yet no published EU assessment on the status and trends of Annex I and migratory bird species (for which SPAs are classified)18. Notwithstanding, it is necessary to have data for birds as a basis for priority setting in relation to management and restoration of Natura 2000 sites.
Potential sources of information: the summary of the 2004 Birds in Europe assessment for the country; national red lists results or other national assessments; the 2010 BAP country profile
B.2 Overall assessment of conservation status by Habitat category / species group
The situation in relation to ecosystem types (eg forests, peatlands, grasslands etc.) should be presented and interpreted.
Potential sources of information: The main source of information will be the summary results of the Article 17 assessment. This is also summarised in the 2010 BAP country profile (sections A1.1 & A1.3). More detailed summaries are available for agriculture and forest related habitats (2010 BAP profiles Objective 2) and for marine related habitats (2010 BAP profiles Section 3.1). Any relevant information and studies by Member States for habitats of birds should also be summarised
B.3 Overview of pressures and threats to species and habitats
Available information on key pressures and threats to be addressed should be presented, especially relevant to the management and restoration of the Natura 2000 sites.
Potential source of information: Article 17 summary reports for species and habitats of Habitats Directive. Information on bird habitats should also be presented where relevant
C. Legal and administrative provisions for the protection and management of the Natura 2000 sites
C.1 Relevant legal provisions
Present a short summary of the regulatory, administrative and contractual approach for the management of the Natura 2000 sites. Indicate the competent authorities for the management of the sites and indicate any procedural provisions and co-operation between the public authorities as well as between them and private bodies, technical and scientific institutions, and if applicable with other regions and trans-border co-operation for implementation of management measures (max. 1-2 page).
Potential source of information: National/regional web sites and relevant policy documents
C.2 Progress and perspectives for management planning for the sites
The aim is to provide an update on progress and perspectives in relation to the establishment of conservation objectives and measures for species and habitats and especially in putting in
18 An assessment on population status and trends for bird species covered by the Birds Directive is under preparation in the context of reporting under Article 12 of this Directive.
54 place management plans and/or equivalent instruments for Natura 200019. Where information is available on the management systems applying to different categories of sites, this should be given.
While it is acknowledged that management plans are not a requirement under the Directive, this information is of special interest in order to understand the instruments the Member States use to manage their network and also to find more specific information if required.
In the context of Article 17 reporting under the Habitats Directive information is requested on the overall number of comprehensive management plans and the percentage of the network area covered by the comprehensive management plans plus the number of comprehensive management plans in preparation Although the SDF will include information on management plans (with “yes/no/in preparation” information), it is important to inform the general public on the overall number of comprehensive management plans. In order to put this number into context, a new field “% of the network area covered by plans” is included.
In this context management plans are considered as operational instruments that set practical measures to achieve the conservation objectives for the sites in the network. For reporting purposes under Article 17, only comprehensive management plans covering an entire Natura 2000 site (or sites) and fulfilling the following minimum requirements should be reported:
A comprehensive management plan should: • indicate the habitat types and/or species and their localities for which conservation measures are planned; • identify the actual status of the habitat types and species and the desired status which should be reached through the conservation measures; • define clear and achievable conservation objectives and • identify the necessary measures together with the means and a time schedule which can contribute to meeting those objectives.
Potential sources of information: National/regional web sites; 2010 BAP country profiles (see section A.1.1.1); "Fact Sheet on Member State Natura 2000 Management Plans" in framework of Management Group on Natura 2000; Information being compiled on management plans in context of reporting under Article 17 Habitats Directive.
C.3 Relevant government and non-governmental plans
Any particular initiatives for the conservation and recovery of individual habitat types or species or groups of them or for strengthening the coherence of the Natura 2000 network should be noted (e.g. a national plan for recovery of peatlands or forests). This may also relate to relevant measures under other plans in fulfilment of other EU legislation (e.g. Nitrates Directive, Water Framework Directive, Marine Strategy Directive etc.)
Potential sources of information: National/regional web sites of competent authorities
19 Whereas management plans are not a legal obligation under the Habitats Directive they are widely recognised to be a valuable tool in helping define and achieve the necessary conservation measures
55 D CURRENT EXPERIENCE WITH USE OF EU FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The aim is to get an overview of the significance / relative importance of different EU financial instruments for investments in Natura 2000 over the current EU financing period (2007-2013), the kind of uses being made of them as well as any problems encountered in using these funds. Background information on each of the relevant sectoral funds and the opportunities they provide for EU co-financing of Natura 2000 is available in the 'Financing Natura 2000 guidance handbook'.20 Presentations on the relevance of each of the key sectoral funds were also made at the conference on financing Natura 2000, held in Brussels in July 201021.
D1 European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD)
Provide a summary of allocations under Axis 2 of Rural Development Programmes, as well as other national/regional financing. The aim is to provide an indication of the current approach to use of the funds for the territory, including the main categories being applied (e.g. whether category 213 Natura 2000 type payments or category 214 agri-environment payments etc apply). There is an opportunity to indicate other relevant categories. Where estimates are available they should be provided. Otherwise, indicate as VS (Very significant); MU (Moderate Use); MI (Minor use); NU (No use).
Please also provide an additional narrative summary of relevant details, including an indication of the key Natura 2000 conservation measures being pursued. Also indicate important lessons learnt in relation to the use of these funds, obstacles encountered that may need to be overcome to improve uptake of funding of future.
Potential source of information: Section A.2.1 of 2010 BAP country profile provides details on the allocation of funds to main categories of RDP. Information has also been compiled as part of the Commission study on Financing of Natura 2000. Member States may also have access to national/regional databases. In relation to the conservation measures being used the key source should be the rural development plans for the territory concerned.
D.2 European Fisheries Fund (EFF)
Provide a summary of allocations under Axis 1-4 of EFF used for Natura 2000 management. Due to fact that coding system for EFF funds does not provide breakdown for Natura 2000 the information is likely to be limited. In this context please indicate in narrative text any projects where EFF funds have been allocated/used please. If EFF funds are available and not utilised, where possible, please indicated an obstacles encountered.
Potential source of information: Section 3.2.1 of 2010 BAP country profile. Information compiled as part of the Commission study on Financing of Natura 2000.
20 Available in 22 languages at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/financing/index_en.htm
21 http://www.ecologic-events.de/natura2000/downloads.htm
56 D.3 Structural Funds and the Cohesion Fund
Provide a summary of allocations under the relevant categories of structural funding (51, 55 and 56) as well as the use of INTERREG for Natura 2000 management. Also indicate to what extent the European Social Fund may have been applied.
Potential source of information: Section B.1.1.4 of 2010 BAP country profile. Information has also been compiled as part of the Commission study on Financing of Natura 2000. Member States may also have access to national/regional databases. In relation to the conservation measures being used the key source should be the regional development plans for the territory concerned.
D.4 LIFE+
Provide a summary of allocations under LIFE+ for Natura 2000 management and indicate the main type of conservation measures being undertaken by the fund as well as key lessons learnt
Potential source of information: Section B.1.1 of 2010 BAP country profile. LIFE+ database.22 Information has also been compiled as part of the Commission study on Financing of Natura 2000
D.5 Other funding sources
Indicate any other important sources of funding relevant to the management of Natura 2000, particularly EU related funding, such as the 7th Framework Programme for Research. Also indicate any significant public/private partnership financing schemes or innovative financing initiatives. Summarise the key conservation measures being undertaken and lessons learnt.
Also indicate in this section whether there has been any 'programmatic' approach towards the national/regional funding of Natura 2000.
Potential source of information: National reports and web sites. Examples of innovative financing relevant to Natura 2000 are available in the Commission contracts23.
22 The Life project database summarises all relevant projects http://ec.europa.eu/environment/life/project/Projects/index.cfm Reviews of LIFE funded projects for several key ecosystems are available at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/life/themes/nature.htm
23 For examples see study on "Innovative use of EU funds to finance management measures and activities in Natura 2000 sites" at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/financing/docs/innovative_use_eu_funds.pdf
57 E CURRENT ESTIMATE OF FINANCIAL NEEDS FOR MANAGEMENT OF NATURA 2000 FOR THE TERRITORY
The aim is to summarise the results of the 2008 questionnaire, which was designed to obtain an estimate of the financial resources required to complete and effectively manage Natura 2000 at land and sea. The aim was to have estimates consistent with managing all sites so as to ensure they make their contribution to the overall favourable conservation status of the network as defined in Articles 1e and 1i of the Habitats Directive24. This related to the implementation of the management measures foreseen in the Directives, in particular in relation to Article 6 of the Habitats and Article 4 of the Birds Directive.
Individual Member States’ cost estimates should relate to all sites25 for which they have responsibility. Estimates should relate to what is still required and not to what is currently spent, or what has already been spent. The aim was to present an estimate of future costs. However, the Commission did also encourage those countries who have annual estimates of actual expenditure to provide them as additional information.
Financing needs are based on activities relating to the management requirements at Natura 2000 sites or to network costs. To establish consistency and compatibility across Natura 2000 sites, some form of uniform system of reporting on costs was clearly required. The key reference used in this questionnaire was Annex III of the Commission Communication on Financing Natura 2000 (2004), which established a preliminary list of necessary measures and activities for the establishment and management of the Natura 2000 network. The Communication classification has subsequently been articulated in the Financing Natura 2000 Guidance Handbook26. As noted, this is generally consistent with the earlier classifications. It was not based on the nature of the costs incurred, like labour, fuel or utility charges but on the type of the activities to be financed. The main categories of costs for the 2008 questionnaire were
EC 2008 Type of cost Finalisation of sites One-off Investment costs One-off Management planning One-off Management planning Recurrent Habitat management and monitoring Recurrent
Where Member States have more updated and reliable estimates of costs these can be provided for the territory.
Potential sources of information: National responses to 2008 questionnaire or more updated estimates of costs that have been prepared for the territory
24 Favourable conservation status does not appear in the Birds Directive but it can be seen as a tool for determining the ecological requirements of the various bird species under Article 2 and the EC has argued that the obligation extends to the Birds Directive in its own guidance on hunting under the Birds Directive. 25 Note that site specific cost estimates are not needed; only the national aggregates across sites should be reported – see further below and the questionnaire. 26 http://circa.europa.eu/Public/irc/env/financing_natura/library?l=/contract_management/handbook_update&vm=detailed&sb=Title (table 3 page 10).
58 F STRATEGIC CONSERVATION PRIORITIES FOR NATURA 2000 FOR THE TERRITORY FOR PERIOD 2014-2020
Outline the strategic priorities for the next period and how this is expected to improve conservation status of Natura 2000 habitat types and species over the next financing period (2014 to 2020). Particular attention needs to be paid to strategy for improving the conservation status for priority habitat types and species. However, the strategy should not be limited to this and should also consider more widely how to secure improvements in conservation of other Natura 2000 habitats and species under both Birds and Habitats Directive (linked to nature sub-target). It can also take an ecosystem perspective (e.g. agricultural, forest, wetland, marine, etc). Whereas the primary focus should be on the sites there may also be justification for measures aimed at the overall coherence of the network, including those directly linked to implementation of Article 10 of the Directive.
There will be a need to incorporate into strategy and priorities a clear link to benefits from financial investments in Natura 2000 and ecosystem services, especially in relation to climate change and mitigation, and also to socio-economic benefits. The information may be organised under three main headings, the first two focusing in particular on the conservation priorities to be achieved for priority habitat types and species as well as other habitat types and species, the third on links to wider policy objectives and the benefits of investments in Natura 2000. It is for the Member States indicate their priorities in light of the above considerations, and having full regard to their state of development in establishing and implementing Natura 2000.
F.1 Summary of priorities for period (and expected outcomes) for priority habitat types and species having regard to need for measurable progress on nature sub- target under EU 2020 biodiversity strategy (Habitats and Birds Directives) and for ensuring good functioning of Natura 2000 network (SACs + SPAs)
F.2 Summary of priorities for period (and expected outcomes) for other habitat types and species having regard to need for measurable progress on nature sub- target under EU 2020 biodiversity strategy (Habitats and Birds Directives) and for ensuring good functioning of the Natura 2000 network (SACs + SPAs)
In line with Article 8 of the Habitats Directive the PAF should recognise the particular importance of priority habitats and species’ listed under this Directive. However, full consideration needs to be given to other species and habitats, especially those for which the Member States/Regions has a particular responsibility for their conservation within the EU. It is for the Member State to identify the habitat types and species most in need and for which Natura 2000 investments are required.
In establishing priorities the results of the Article 17 assessments under the Habitats Directive need to be fully considered Together with information on the status of birds this forms the baseline for assessing progress towards attainment of the nature target of the EU 2020 biodiversity strategy. The priorities should reflect the objective of achieving a significant and measurable improvement in the status of species and habitats by 2020
59 Target 1 of EU Biodiversity Strategy27
To halt the deterioration in the status of all species and habitats covered by EU nature legislation and achieve a significant and measurable improvement in their status so that, by 2020, compared to current assessments: (i) 100% more habitat assessments and 50% more species assessments under the Habitats Directive show an improved conservation status; and (ii) 50% more species assessments under the Birds Directive show a secure or improved status.
Priority setting should also have regard to the functioning and coherence of the network, including ecological connectivity of Natura 2000 or wider measures supporting the sites as part of green infrastructure.
F.3 Strategic priorities in relation to investments in Natura 2000 linked to green tourism and jobs, to support climate change mitigation and adaptation or other ecosystem benefits, for research, education, training, awareness and promotion of co-operation (including cross-border) linked to Natura 2000 management
In order to secure adequate financing for Natura 2000 there needs to be increased focus on its contribution to the attainment of Europe 2020 objectives28. Optimising the benefits provided by investing in Natura 2000 needs to be more clearly reflected in the priority setting.
In addition to protecting nature's intrinsic value investing in Natura 2000 provides multiple benefits to society and the economy, at the local, regional, national and EU level. The most relevant socio-economic benefits include the role of Natura 2000 in regulating climate29 (e.g. mitigating climate change - including services directly relevant to climate change mitigation and adaptation such as flood conveyance of wetlands, natural coastal protection of dune systems, carbon sequestration of peatlands and the ability of forested mountain areas to prevent erosion and landslides), maintaining water flow and quality, safeguarding natural pollinators, preserving landscape and amenity values, and supporting tourism and recreation.
Several studies have already been undertaken for the Commission to evaluate the benefits of Natura 200030. Three further studies evaluating overall benefits of Natura 2000, the benefits linked directly to delivery of conservation measures at the sites and the tourism, recreational and employment benefits of investing in Natura 2000, will be finalised before the end of 2011.
27 COM (2011) 540 final
28 Europe 2020 is the EU's growth strategy for the coming decade aimed at a smart, sustainable and inclusive economy. These three mutually reinforcing priorities should help the EU and the Member States deliver high levels of employment, productivity and social cohesion. The EU has set five ambitious objectives - on employment, innovation, education, social inclusion and climate/energy - to be reached by 2020. Each Member State has adopted its own national targets in each of these areas. Concrete actions at EU and national levels underpin the strategy (see http://ec.europa.eu/europe2020/index_en.htm)
29 The Commission has developed guidelines on Climate change and Natura 2000 which are available at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/guidance_en.htm
30 The results of Commission funded studies on the benefits of Natura 2000 are available on the web site of DG ENVat http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/financing/index_en.htm.
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Therefore in establishing priorities for financial investments in Natura 2000 full consideration needs to be given to
• Multiple ecosystem benefits that can be derived from such investments
• the potential link between financial investments in Natura 2000 and climate change31 It is for Member States to identify particular Natura 2000 habitat types (e.g. peatlands, river floodplains, forests, coastal habitats) for which investments can also provide climate change benefits.
• the link between Natura 2000 investments, tourism and jobs and opportunities for research, education, training, awareness and promotion of co-operation (including cross-border) linked to Natura 2000 management
31 Commission guidelines on Natura 2000 and climate change are in preparation
61 G DESCRIPTION OF KEY MEASURES TO ACHIEVE PRIORITIES
The essential measures to give effect to priorities need to be identified by the Member State. A typology of 25 Natura 2000 management activities that may be eligible for EU co-financing has been developed (see Annex). This may be broadly defined as one-off investment costs and recurring management costs. Eligibility of different activities will vary under different EU funds.
It is proposed that this is best approached on an ecosystem perspective. Where possible, measures should be linked to each habitat type and species prioritised in the strategy. This can be further strengthened if linked to different Natura 2000 sites. The measures should also have full regard to ongoing work on setting conservation objectives and on the development of management plans or equivalent instruments for the sites (section C.2). They should also have full regard to the obstacles and lessons learnt from use of EU funds under the current financing period (section D).
The Natura 2000 Financing Natura 2000 guidance handbook and IT-tool already provide an indication of the type of conservation measures that may be applicable under current different sectoral funds, including potential examples and it is recommended that these are availed of, while noting that the future regulations may not contain each of the same provisions.
For each major heading and using the attached Annex provide for each major category the following breakdown • An outline of the type of activity • Description of the measures to be undertaken • An indication of the target species/habitats/sites • An indication of potential financing sources
Where estimated costs exist for different priority measures (in accordance with information provided under section E) they can be indicated, although this may not be possible in relation to certain measures.
The following sections are indicative and can be adapted in relation to the priorities identified and indicated in Section F for the territory concerned. There may also be an overlap between measures indicated for one section and another (e.g. measures for restoration of peatlands can be indicated under wetlands and climate change mitigation/adaptation).
In relation to level of detail to be provided the aim should be to provide a level of specification in relation to conservation measures that can be readily translated into national and/or regional programmes.
G.1 General Priority Measures for Natura 2000
Indicate the general priority measures that are not linked to particular ecosystem or land category types. This can also include measures linked to good functioning of the network. This should relate to one off investments as well as recurring costs.
62 G.1.a Priority Measures for Natura 2000 agricultural and forest habitats and species
Indicate the main agriculture and forestry related measures to give effect to priorities. This should relate to one off investments as well as recurring costs. Of particular interest here are measures linked to Rural Development Policy under the CAP. However, other financial instruments may also be relevant.
G.1.b Priority Measures for Natura 2000 marine and coastal habitats and species
This should include consideration of marine management measures that are linked to fisheries. This should relate to one off investments as well as recurring costs. If possible also have regard to the potential for complementarity with measures taken under the Marine Strategy Directive
G.1.c Priority Measures for Natura 2000 wetlands habitats and species, including peatlands.
This may include measures linked to aquaculture in freshwaters. This should relate to one off investments as well as recurring costs. Also have regard to actions being taken under EU water legislation, especially the Water Framework Directive
G.2 Other priority measures
As some EU co-financing opportunities for Natura 2000 may be linked to the attainment of other EU objectives (e.g. in relation to socio-economic development, climate change adaptation and mitigation, employment) it will be necessary to identify measures that provide such multiple benefits. The following sections are indicative and can be adapted in relation to the situation pertaining to the territory concerned.
G.2.a Priority Measures for securing ecosystem benefits of Natura 2000, especially in relation to climate change mitigation and adaptation
G.2.b Priority Measures for promoting sustainable tourism and employment in relation to Natura 2000
G.2.c Priority Measures to promote innovative approaches in relation to Natura 2000
Indicate priority measures that provide multiple ecosystem benefits32 and that contribute to ‘Green Infrastructure’. These may be one off investments or recurring management.
They may be climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, including in relation to carbon sequestration and water quality and quantity management measures.
Measures that contribute to the sustainable development of the territory and for which Natura 2000 sites provide benefits to the local population should be considered. This includes measures for tourism and promotion of local businesses. Measures may include investments
32 information from the 3 Commission studies on benefits of Natura 2000 will be made available in 2011.
63 in visitor infrastructure and nature interpretation, measures that promote Natura 2000 related entrepreneurial opportunities.33 There will also be a need to consider and trial innovative financing measures for Natura 2000, especially in relation to private financing. This may include tourism and entrepreneurial activities directly linked to and benefitting from the Natura 2000 areas but also in relation to the multiple benefits provided by investments in management and restoration of Natura 2000 sites (e.g. in relation to water quality management objectives).
Section G.3. Summary Table for of measures per species and habitat type
This summary table allows crosschecking from the point of view of species and habitats, to see how pressures and threats to each species/habitat are addressed in the given region/Member State. This summary table should list for each feature (species or habitat) the planned priority measures to be financed from EU funding (e.g. agri-environmental payment for late mowing, forest-environmental payment for retaining dead wood in the forest). This could serve for crosschecking which features are planned to be covered with one or more planned measures from EU financing/co-financing. This will allow for an overview of the priority measures planned for each feature having regard to the conservation status of the given feature and whether they represent a proper response to the main pressures and threats. Also, this allows a comparison between different regions/Member States to see, feature by feature, how pressures and threats are addressed within the range of the feature.
Section H: Monitoring, evaluation and updating of PAFs
Different elements for evaluation of the priorities and measures to be undertaken in accordance with the prioritised action framework already exist.
As regards the main expected outcome of improved conservation status of species and habitats the Article 17 evaluation and reporting system of the Habitats Directive is the key mechanism, and reporting will be foreseen for 2013/2014 and 2020/2021. A system for reporting on the population status and trends of birds under the Birds Directive is under development with the aim of being in place by 2014. These reporting systems will also provide the principal basis for evaluating progress in meeting the 2020 nature target of the EU biodiversity strategy.
Member States should also be in a position to evaluate progress through review of the implementation of management plans and equivalent instruments. Progress in the establishment of these management tools will also be an important indicator.
Each of the EU sectoral funds (EARDF, ERDF etc) has their own monitoring and evaluation systems and it is not proposed to duplicate these. However, in designing projects under these funds and under any future LIFE instrument the indicators of success should be defined in
33 An example of the types of investment considered for the Slovenian Natura 2000 programme for the period 2007-2013 is given in Annex 4.6 to the ‘Natura 2000 site management programme: 2007-2013 operational programme’
64 relation to the objectives of these projects. There should also be full regard to determining the allocation and uptake of funds for Natura 2000 under the different sectoral funds.
There should be a provision for updating of the PAFs in light of improved knowledge on the measures to be taken (e.g. as result of LIFE projects including work on the development of ‘integrated projects’, or the outcome of biogeographical seminars on management of Natura 200) and also having regard to developments in programming under key EU policy sectors (e.g. CAP, CFP). Progress in implementation of the PAFs shall also be considered in the context of future reviews of implementation of the EU Biodiversity strategy.
65 ANNEX
Natura 2000 management Activities which may be eligible for EU co-financing34
Categorisation No. Types of Activities Further description 1 Administration of the site selection Funding for authorities carrying out the process selection process. 2 Scientific studies/inventories for the Scientific studies, research personnel, Establishment identification of sites – surveys, workshops and meetings, creation of inventories, mapping, condition databases etc. of Natura 2000 assessment sites 3 Preparation of initial information and Including handbooks, seminars, publicity material workshops, communication materials for training and capacity building. 4 Pilot projects Initial ‘trial’ projects at sites. 5 Preparation of management plans, Elaboration and/or update of strategies and schemes (including management and action plans, land use scientific studies and investigations plans etc. needed for planning and implementation based on solid knowledge) 6 Establishment of management bodies Start-up funding, feasibility studies, management plans etc. 7 Consultation – public meetings, liaison Including costs incurred for the with landowners organization of meetings and workshops, publication of consultation outcomes, financial support of stakeholders, etc. Management Can include networking activities (travel, planning meetings and workshops). 8 Review of management plans, strategies Review and updating of management and schemes plans and strategies. 9 Running costs of management bodies Including: running costs incurred to meet (maintenance of buildings and equipment) depreciation of infrastructure, consumables, travel expenses, rents and leases etc. 10 Maintenance of facilities for public access Including costs related to guides, maps, and use of the sites, interpretation, related personnel. observatories and kiosks etc. 11 Staff (conservation/project officers, Ongoing staff costs. wardens/rangers, workers) 12 Conservation management measures – Including restoration work, provision of maintenance and improvement of habitats’ wildlife passages, management of favourable conservation status specific habitats, and preparation of Ongoing habitat management plans.
management 13 Conservation management measures – Including restoration work, provision of and monitoring maintenance and improvement of species’ wildlife passages, management of favourable conservation status specific species (flora and fauna) and plans. 14 Conservation management measures in Including restoration work, relation to invasive alien species (IAS) infrastructure, management of specific species, and preparation of management plans.
34 P 33, Financing Natura 2000, Guidance Handbook, revised version May 2007, http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/financing/index_en.htm
66 Categorisation No. Types of Activities Further description 15 Implementation of management schemes Includes: Ongoing habitat and agreements with owners and • Agri-environmental measures, e.g. management managers of land or water to follow wildlife-friendly production and monitoring particular prescriptions. methods, habitat restoration on agricultural land, extensive livestock breeding, conservation of meadows, etc • Forest-environmental measures, e.g. creation of exploitation-free zones, retention of dead wood, control or eradication of invasive alien species, afforestation or reforestation activities, management of specific vegetation, etc. • Aqua-environmental measures, e.g. habitat maintenance in aquaculture zones etc. (relates to aquaculture rather than fishing). 16 Provision of services: compensation for Costs of compensation, e.g. to farmers, rights foregone and loss of income and foresters or other land owners or users developing acceptability ‘liaison’ with for income forgone as a result of neighbors management prescriptions needed for Natura 2000. 17 Monitoring and surveying Refers mainly to one-off costs related to monitoring and surveying activities, e.g. development of monitoring plans, methods and equipment and training of personnel.
18 Risk management (fire prevention and Includes the preparation of wardening control, flooding etc) and fire-control plans, development of relevant infrastructure, and equipment purchase. 19 Site surveillance Includes on-going surveillance, wardening and patrolling activities. Can include personnel costs, consumables, travel, etc in order to implement surveillance and guarding activities, including surveillance to control harmful recreational or economic activities and protect against wildfires.
20 Provision of information and publicity Includes establishing communication material networks, producing newsletters and awareness-raising and information materials, setting-up and maintaining internet pages, etc. 21 Training and education Including production of handbooks, seminars, workshops and communication materials. 22 Facilities to encourage visitor use and appreciation of Natura 2000 sites Investment costs 23 Land purchase, including compensation Land purchase to achieve environmental for development rights protection and management schemes.
67 Categorisation No. Types of Activities Further description Investment costs 24 Infrastructure needed for habitat or Includes an array of measures for the species restoration creation of specific infrastructure for the management of the environment, e.g. for water management in peat bogs and mines. Can include equipment acquisition (for equipment relevant to the running of protection and management institutions such as office and IT equipment, monitoring materials, boats, diving equipment, cameras, etc.) 25 Infrastructure for public access, Infrastructure for public use that is interpretation, observatories and kiosks, conducive to environmental protection etc and management (e.g. infrastructure to increase the amenity value of sites such as signage, trails, observation platforms and visitor centres). Can include equipment acquisition (for equipment relevant to the running of protection and management institutions such as office and IT equipment, monitoring materials, boats, diving equipment, cameras, etc.)
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