Kemmuna u l - Gżejjer ta’

Madwarha

Annex

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Natura 2000 Management Plan

ANNEX 1 MANAGEMENT PLAN DEVE LOPMENT 4 A.1.1 Summary of Methodology 4 A.1.2 Data Collection 5 A.1.3 Formulation of Management Objectives 6 A.1.4 Formulation of Management Actions 7 A.1.5 Work Plan Structure and Reporting and Review Plan 7 ANNEX 2 RELEVANT PLANNING PO LICIES 8 A.2.1 Structure Plan and Local Plan Policies 8 ANNEX 3 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY OF CONSE RVATION STATUS 21 ANNEX 4 SPECIFICATIONS OF MA NAGEMENT ACTIONS 29 A.4.1 Guidelines for Standard Monitoring Plans for Annex I Habitats and Annex II Species of the Habitats Directive and Annex i Species of the Birds Directive 29 A.4.2 Guidelines for the Elaboration of National Species Action Plans 35 A.4.3 Guidelines for Habitat Restoration Actions 38 P11. Restoration of habitat 1420, and 2210; for restoration and expansion of habitat 92D0; and for the expansion of habitat 2210 at Santa Marija Bay 38 A.4.4 Guidelines for the Signposting and Site promotion 42 A.4.5 Patrolling Schedule 46 ANNEX 5 COST RECOVERY MECHAN ISMS 59 A.5.1 Revenue Generating and Self -financing Opportunities 59 A.5.2 Funding Opportunities 62 ANNEX 6 MAPS 64 A.6.1 Boundary Map 65 A.6.2 Hydrology Map 66 A.6.3 Geology Map 67 A.6.4 Cultural Heritage Map 68 A.6.5 Land Use Map 69 A.6.6 Habitats Map 70 A.6.7 Signage Map 71 A.6.8 Land Ownership Map 72 A.6.9 Visitor Access Map 73 A.6.10 Actions Map 74 ANNEX BIBLIOGRAPHY 75

Tables Table A-1: Structure Plan policies; Kemmuna u l -Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha ...... 9 Table A-2: Gozo and Comino Local Plan policies applicable to Kemmuna u l -Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha ...... 14 Table A-3: Evaluating the current condition of a habitat type ...... 22 Table A-4: Evaluating the current condition of a species ...... 25 Table A-5: Maltese Islands Annex I Habitat s and Annex II Species to be monitored ...... 29 Table A-6: Maltese Islands Bird Species to be monitored ...... 31 Table A-7: FRVs to be established for the following habitats and species ...... 32

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Table A-8: Parameters for determining Favourable Conservation Status according to Article 17 of the Habitats Directive ...... 33 Table A-9: Content explanation of Table A-11: Site Identity – Management Structure ...... 48 Table A-10: Content explanation of Table A-13: Activities per site ...... 48 Table A-11: Site Identity – Management Structure ...... 49 Table A-12: Half-year patrolling schedule ...... 53 Table A-13: Activities monitored through patrolling ...... 56

Figures Figure A-1: Actions Map for Action P11 ...... 41 Figure A-2: Map showing indicative locations for signs ...... 45

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ANNEX 1 MANAGEMENT PLAN DEVELOPMENT

A standardised methodology has been developed for the development of all Natura 2000 Management Plans. The use of a standardised methodology allows for facilitated quality assurance and control. This chapter outlines the management planning methodology.

A.1.1 SUMMARY OF METHODOLOGY

Step -1 Information acquisition, evaluation : One of the first tasks that was undertaken was the identification of information requirements for the management planning process. Once this was done, the team acquired information available for the site from MEPA, literature, available reports, interviews, team experts and academia contacts. In addition to the above, a data gap analysis was carried out to determine what supplementary information was required to be gathered from the field / other sources ( Information and Gap Analysis ).

Step -2 Site/s visit & field work : The team conducted site visits as necessary to verify the information collected in Step-1 and collected additional information and data (Surveys and Data Gathering Exercise ) whilst concluding the gap analysis

Step -3 Database development and drafting of Chapter 2 : The team evaluated all information for consistency, quality and reliability, drafted Chapter 2 and stored information in an ArcGIS system. All baseline information was submitted to MEPA for their feedback. This information was thoroughly reviewed and revised as the Management Plan was drafted and was revisited each time new information was made available through additional site visits, stakeholder consultation and expert input (Εvaluation of Data and Information Gathered ).

Step -4 Drafting of Chapter 3 : Based on the above , the team drafted Chapter 3 of th e Management Plan. The 1 st draft was peer reviewed by the team and external consultants (Evaluation of Data and Information Gathered, Setting Conservation Objectives ). This Chapter was circulated to MEPA for their feedback and revised following MEPA feedback.

Step -5 Drafting of Chapters 4 to 6, Draft -1: Based on the above, the team drafted Chapters 4, 5 and 6, by following the steps described below and produced a 1st Draft of the Management Plan, including the Introductory Chapter 1 (Management Planning ). The draft was made available to MEPA for their comments and revised following MEPA feedback.

Step -6 Public consultation & stakeholders meetings : This is a horizontal action carried out concurrently with the above steps. The team organized public consultation meetings and public information days with stakeholders and the MEPA, presented the Natura 2000 programme for Malta, and acquired general and specific information for the sites. It also discussed the vision, management objectives, and actions for the site (Stakeholder Involvement ).

Step -7 2nd site visit, verification, Draft -2; Consultation and Draft -3; Database update,

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maps, Live.Doc : The team conducted a 2 nd site visit to verify measures proposed in Draft-1 and produced a Draft-2 Management Plan. Draft-2 was peer reviewed by consultants and experts and the team used the feedback from these to produce Draft-3. Based on the above, the team updated the site database and GIS system and produced maps and other information (Management Planning, update/contribution of/to the Surveys and Data Gathering Exercise and the Evaluation of Data and Information Gathered )

Step -8 Delivery of the Live.doc to the MEPA : The Live.doc was delivered for review to MEPA. Comments by MEPA were addressed as required.

Step -9 The final document is then produced : The live.doc has been circulated, comments have been incorporated and the Final Report has been produced which includes the Executive Summary.

A.1.2 DATA COLLECTION

Data has been collated for:

• Physical features • Management infrastructure • Relevant plans, policies and legislation • Ecology • Geology, Geomorphology, Hydrology, Climate • Cultural and heritage elements • Landscape features • Human uses within and around the site • Land Ownership • Tourism • Accessibility • Economic and social aspects including stakeholder consultation.

The data has been collated from various sources according to the procedures:

• A desk study was first carried out to gather all relevant data related to the site. • Typical information sources used are MEPA databases, maps and documents, information from the Lands Department, information from the Agriculture Department, information from the Malta Resources Authority. • Field surveys were carried out to support the desk study. • Surveys were carried out for land use and habitat mapping, in particular to confirm or update the habitats maps available at MEPA. • Meetings were held with relevant stakeholders during which the site was discussed and information as well as feedback was obtained. • Survey methodologies and details of the consultation carried out are described in detail in Chapter 2.

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A.1.3 FORMULATION OF MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

Compiled data is evaluated in Chapter 3, leading to the vision of the site with the help of a SWOT analysis as described in the equivalent sections.

The essence of conservation management is the ability to improve the weak features (weaknesses) and to control the negative factors (threats) impacting a particular feature or group of features, while enhancing the strengths and increasing the probability of the opportunities identified.

To aid the process a Prospects Matrix is employed. Principal features targeted for conservation are plotted against the ecological, social and institutional prospects that can be contemplated for them and for the site as a whole.

In Natura 2000 sites the ecological prospects are well defined and refer to:

• The natural habitat types listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive • The species listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive • The species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive and migratory birds as per Article 4 of the Birds Directive • Other important species defined for the site.

Institutional and social prospects, such as archaeological elements, cultural elements and landscape value, are site specific and derived from the evaluation of the features (other than habitats and species) and the factors influencing the site. Ideally every issue identified in the SWOT analysis should appropriately fit in a cell of the Prospect Matrix so that a formula for addressing weaknesses and threats and building on strengths and opportunities can be later constructed.

A vision for the site is then created to summarise the ideal situation after a period of management of the protected area. The vision is based on the evaluation of the prospects that can be contemplated for each of the features and the factors identified for the site.

The vision is composed of discrete vision statements. Each vision statement corresponds to a line in the Prospect Matrix.

The above led to the formulation of the Management Objectives and, subsequently, Operational Objectives. The Management Objectives define the policies through which the vision will be achieved and are long-term objectives to be attained over a long period of time. For every Management Objective defined, a number of Operational Objectives are assigned.

The Operational Objectives are basically the objectives to which all the management work is directly related and are to be attainted during the 5-year period of the plan. The Operational Objectives also lay the groundwork for the Management Actions.

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A.1.4 FORMULATION OF MANAGEMENT ACTIONS

Operational Objectives are given a priority rating, based on urgency for addressing certain conservation problems (as they have been identified during the evaluation process) and subsequently lead to the formulation of Management Actions as described in Chapter 4. In most cases certain actions can be grouped together so that a more comprehensive final list of Management Actions is produced.

For each action a brief description is given together with expected results, priority ratings and foreseen constraints. For a number of Management Actions, some of which would be best implemented horizontally across sites, the aforementioned brief description is supplemented by specifications which are included in Annex 4. The specifications elaborate further on the needs of the implementation to facilitate future work.

A.1.5 WORK PLAN STRUCTURE AND REPORTING AND REVIEW PLAN

Prior to the Management Plan implementation a detailed Work Plan must be prepared by the relevant entity and site manager, on annual basis and reviewed at the end of each year, which makes clear what is expected to be achieved over specific periods of the plan and how much it will cost, as is indicated in Chapter 5.

To facilitate the elaboration of the Work Plan the following are provided:

• An indication of the financial resources needed annually for the implementation of each action. • The annual time schedule for the implementation of each action, checklist of the expected deliverables and year of delivery of each action and the entity proposed as responsible to deliver the actions.

In addition, cost recovery mechanisms are identified, both per site and horizontally, to facilitate securing resources for the subsequent implementation of the actions suggested within the Management Plan. These are included in Annex 5.

The management plan should be reviewed on an annual basis and given an in-depth review immediately after its five year period of validity, as indicated in Chapter 6. It is important to review the management plan on a regular basis since this:

• Makes clear whether or not all the objectives and targets are being achieved efficiently and effectively • Allows resource shifting and re-prioritisation if necessary • Assists forward planning for the following year or period, so that uncompleted projects can be added in and tasks re-timed in the light of experience.

To facilitate the five year revision plan and specifically to assist the evaluation of the effectiveness of the actions in achieving the objectives, a list of initial performance indicators is also provided.

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ANNEX 2 RELEVANT PLANNING POLICIES

A.2.1 STRUCTURE PLAN AND LOCAL PLAN POLICIES

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Table A-1: Structure Plan policies; Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha Str. Relevance to management plan Plan Description process Policy SET 11 No form of urban development will be permitted outside existing and committed built-up areas, and primary The management plan will take note of development areas as designated in the Structure Plan even where roads and public utilities are available. this policy. Permitted forms of non urban development outside such areas are restricted to the categories referred to in Paragraph 7.6 AHF 4 Soil conservation and soil saving measures will continue to be mandatory on all occasions. Soil replenishment Conserving soil is important both for measures will be adopted where there are suitable opportunities. agricultural reasons and for safeguarding of the existing landforms. AHF 8 Further measures will be developed to promote the reinstatement and maintenance of random rubble walls A large part of the management plan throughout the countryside with priority given to walls alongside rural roads, and for the removal of visual area is made up of abandoned intrusions. agricultural land. AHF 15 Marine based aquaculture units will be encouraged so as to make best use of land and sea resources. Marine based fish farming units are Production units will be located well away from the coast to avoid any significant visual impact. Detailed found in the vicinity of the planning criteria and permit conditions will be developed to ensure suitable safeguards. management plan area. TOU 11 Government will seek the co-operation of relevant public and private sector agencies to ensure that the The site includes two scheduled Islands' many heritage items are made more accessible and interesting to tourists. Heritage trails will be cultural heritage sites (Table 1). identified in Local Plans. TOU 14 The Planning Authority will prepare a Subject Plan aimed at reconciling the conflicting interests of The management plan area includes a recreational diving, other underwater activities, and marine ecological conservation. number of dive sites. UCO 7 Listed buildings in Urban Conservation Areas will be graded as Grades 1, 2, or 3 as follows: The SAC and SPA has two buildings Grade 1: Buildings of outstanding architectural or historical interest that shall be preserved in their entirety. with Grade 1 scheduling. Demolition or alterations which impair the setting or change the external or internal appearance, including anything contained within the curtilage of the building, will not be allowed. Any interventions allowed must be directed to their scientific restoration and rehabilitation. Internal structural alterations will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances where this is paramount for reasons ofkeeping the building in active use. Grade 2: Buildings of some architectural or historical interest or which contribute to the visual image of an Urban Conservation Area. Permission to demolish such buildings will not normally be given. Alterations to the interior will be allowed if proposed to be carried out sensitively and causing the least detriment to the character and architectural homogeneity of the building. Grade 3: Buildings which have no historical importance and are of relatively minor architectural interest. Demolition may be permitted provided the replacement building is in harmony with its surroundings

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Str. Relevance to management plan Plan Description process Policy RCO 1 Rural Conservation Areas are designated as illustrated in the Key Diagram. Within such areas the following The management plan area includes sub areas will be designated, using World Conservation Union definitions and criteria where relevant: sites of ecological importance and sites 1. Areas of Agricultural Value: areas comprised of high grade agricultural land including irrigated and partially of scientific importance. irrigated land 2. Areas of Ecological Importance: relatively large areas designated to protect typical and rare habitats 3. Sites of Scientific Importance: sites containing individual species, groups of species, and geological features 4. Areas of Archaeological Importance: concentrations of valuable archaeological sites 5. Sites of Archaeological Importance: individual and/or isolated archaeological sites 6. National Parks: relatively large areas of national significance not materially altered by human use, with managed visitor access and amenities 7. Areas of High Landscape Value RCO 10 In identifying and designating Areas of Ecological Importance in Local Plans, one or more of the following Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha habitat types must be present: SAC and SPA includes a saline 1. Permanent springs marshland. 2. Saline marshlands 3. Sand dunes 4. Forest remnants 5. Semi natural woodland 6. Natural freshwater pools and transitional coastal wetlands 7. Deep natural caves 8. Coastal cliffs 9. Representative examples of typical Maltese habitats such as garigue, maquis, valley sides, watercourses, and gently sloping rocky coasts. RCO 11 In identifying and designating Sites of Scientific Importance in Local Plans, one or more of the following Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha features must be present: SAC and SPA includes areas of major 1. The only known locality in the Maltese Islands where certain endemic and/or non endemic species are ornithological interest and areas of found particular geomorphological interest. 2. A locality where certain endemic and/or non endemic species with a restricted distribution in the Maltese Islands occur (`restricted distribution' is taken to mean occurrence in five localities or less) 3. The type locality of an endemic species 4. An important bird nesting site or of some other major ornithological interest 5. A locality of special palaeontological interest

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Str. Relevance to management plan Plan Description process Policy 6. A lithostratigraphical type section 7. A locality of particular geomorphological interest 8. Some other specific feature of scientific importance not listed above RCO 12 In Local Plans, the Planning Authority will give protection ratings to Areas of Ecological Importance and Sites The management plan area includes of Scientific Importance as follows: level 1 and level 2 protection levels. 1. LEVEL 1 zones will include important habitat types present only in small areas and/or sites with unique species or features 2. LEVEL 2 zones will include important habitat types present in relatively large areas and/or sites with rare species or features 3. LEVEL 3 zones will include areas where control is necessary to preserve habitats/species/features in adjacent sites 4. LEVEL 4 zones will include habitats and/or features of general interest RCO 16 No form of permanent construction will be allowed in sandy coastal areas and existing constructions will be PA/03255/99 for the inclusion of an removed wherever practicable. The removal of sand from sandy beaches is prohibited, and the extension and artificial beach in San Niklaw Bay was creation of sandy beaches for recreational use will be encouraged. Sandy beaches include shallow inshore approved by MEPA. seabeds. All beach and seabed enhancement will be the subject of Environment Impact Analyses. RCO 17 Overnight camping on sandy beaches, and any camping on sand dunes will be prohibited, and access This will be kept into consideration ofvehicles to sandy beaches and dune areas will be prevented. during management planning process as relevant. RCO 18 Without prejudice to any other policy or regulation protecting dune areas, the Planning Authority will This will be kept into consideration actively prevent the removal of sand binding vegetation from such areas. during management planning process as relevant. RCO 22 Positive action will be taken to prevent further loss of sandy beaches, sand dunes, coastal clay slopes, soil, This will be kept into consideration and cliff edges. during management planning process as relevant. RCO 25 Positive action will be taken to promote the repair of breached retaining walls on valley sides in order to The SAC and SPA includes Wied l- prevent further soil erosion. Aħmar valley which includes agricultural land. RCO 26 The removal of the vegetation cover from abandoned fields and derelict land without good reason will not be This will be kept into consideration permitted. during management planning process as relevant. RCO 27 Developments which involve the excavation of significant quantities of Blue Clays will not be permitted. This will be kept into consideration

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Str. Relevance to management plan Plan Description process Policy during management planning process as relevant. RCO 28 Valleys will continue to be protected as important water catchment areas. This will be kept into consideration during management planning process as relevant. RCO 29 No new physical development will normally be allowed on the sides of valleys and especially on valley This will be kept into consideration watercourses except for constructions aimed at preventing soil erosion and the conservation and during management planning process management of water resources. Also: as relevant. 1. Existing dams across valleys to conserve water resources will be repaired in preference to the construction of new dams. Dams will be built of durable materials and will be regularly maintained 2. The Planning Authority will have regard to the possible detrimental effect of dredging works in valleys, and will seek to minimise the impact of such works, particularly by leaving the valley banks intact and by promoting selective dredging 3. The Planning Authority will take positive action, in collaboration with the appropriate Government agencies, in order to prevent the dumping of domestic waste, building rubble, and other refuse into valleys 4. The Planning Authority will take positive action to safeguard valleys for walking, cycling, and horseriding through the prohibition of vehicles, other than for agriculture and maintenance, and the establishment of car parks at valley edges. RCO 30 There is a general presumption against the siting of afforestation projects where stable indigenous (native This will be kept into consideration species) natural vegetational communities are already established, but encouragement of the siting of during management planning process afforestation projects on abandoned agricultural land and on derelict ground will be given. as relevant. RCO 31 Afforestation projects sites in non urban areas will make use only of indigenous and archaeophytic (brought The management plan area includes a by man in prehistoric times, and now naturally occuring) species. The use ofexotic (not native to the country) site proposed for afforestation as species will be limited to urban areas. indicated in policy GZ-RLCN-6 in the Gozo and Comino Local Plan. RCO 33 Specified individual trees or groups of trees of aesthetic, historical, cultural, arboricultural, and/or scientific The SAC and SPA includes an old interest will be protected by means of Tree Preservation Orders which prohibit the uprooting, destruction, or population of olive trees and a damage to trees growing in the wild and in public parks, gardens, and other spaces, or on private land, and remnant riprarian coastal woodland regulate any other activity which may cause harm or death of such trees. population of African Tamarisk and Chaste Trees. RCO 34 Without prejudice to any other policy or regulation protecting the environment of the minor islands of the The management plan will take note of

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Str. Relevance to management plan Plan Description process Policy Maltese archipelago, the Planning Authority will have a general presumption against any new physical this policy. development on these islands. The minor islands of the Maltese archipelago are: St. Paul's Islands (Selmunett Islands), Għallis Rocks, rocks off Xrobb il-Għaġin, rocks off Delimara Point, Filfla Island, Cominotto, rocks in the Blue Lagoon area, Ġebla tal-Ħalfa, Il- Ħnejja, Tac-Ċawl Rock, Fessej Rock, and Fungus Rock (General's Rock). RCO 41 The establishment of Field Centres by recognised educational institutions will be encouraged, and of This will be kept into consideration interpretive Visitor Centres associated with Conservation Areas, providing that these are established in during management planning process harmony with other policies and regulations. as relevant. MCO 1 The following general vicinities are designated as candidates for the status of Marine Conservation Areas. The management plan will take note of Following further analysis, these and other possible areas will be categorised and given protection accorded this policy. to defined categories: 1. Dwejra, Gozo 2. Qbajjar, Gozo 3. Ramla Bay, Gozo 4. Mġarr ix-Xini Bay, Gozo 5. Comino Island 6. Filfla Island 7. Ċirkewwa 8. St. Paul's Islands, Mistra Bay 9. Qawra Point 10. St.George's Bay vicinity, Paceville 11. Outer Marsamxett Harbour 12. St. Thomas Bay to Delimara Point 13. Blue Grotto to Għar Lapsi 14. South of Fomm Ir-Riħ Bay to Ras il-Waħx. CZM 3 Public access around the coastline immediately adjacent to the sea or at the top of cliffs (including in bays, This will be kept into consideration harbours, and creeks) will be secured. This will include taking shorelands into public ownership, Government during management planning process acquisition of illegal developments and encroachments, and suitable construction works. In the few cases as relevant. where this is not practical (for example where security considerations are paramount), nearby detours will be established. All the coastline will be brought into public ownership within a specified period.

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Table A-2: Gozo and Comino Local Plan policies applicable to Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha L. Plan Relevance to management plan Description Policy process GZ- In accordance with Structure Plan Policy RCO 2 and without prejudice to Policy GZ-AGRI-3, requests for the This will be kept into consideration RLST-5 construction of new rural dwellings in Gozo or Comino will be refused. during management planning process as relevant. GZ- In accordance with its status as a Nature Reserve and in view of its environmental sensitivity, new dwellings This will be kept into consideration RLST-6 on Comino shall not be permitted. In this respect, Policy GZ-AGRI-3 shall not apply to Comino or to any of the during management planning process other minor islets. as relevant. GZ- Proposals for the upgrading of existing jetties at Marsalforn, Xlendi and Hondoq ir-Rummien shall be The management plan will take note of TRAN- considered provided that interventions shall be mainly limited to the remediation of disrepair and limited this policy. 12 upgradingof ancillary facilities (e.g. berthing buoys). Proposals for the extension of these facilities (whether in width or length) shall only be considered by MEPA following submission of a detailed justification on the need for additional berthing space for essential operations and subject to the findings of a detailed technical report assessing the impacts of the proposed extensions on the wave dynamics and currents in the area. The effects of the extension on sediment transport and erosion as well as onexisting uses shall also be assessed. These proposals shall also be subject to approval by the Malta Maritime Authority. Depending on the location and the extent of the extension, an Environmental Impact Assessment may also be required. MEPA will encourage the creation of swimming zones at Xlendi, Marsalforn, Hondoq ir-Rummien and Comino as well as the zoning of other marine activities, in order to minimize conflicts and increase safety measures in these heavily used bays. GZ- MEPA will encourage the Malta Maritime Authority, in consultation with the Malta Tourism Authority, to The management plan will take note of TRAN- develop Destination Ports in specific areas around the Gozitan coast and in Comino in order to improve the this policy. 13 tourism product, upgrade facilities for boating and yachting while protecting the environmental resources. Subject to the findings of an Environmental Impact Study, candidate sites for the development of Destination Portson Gozo include Marsalforn and Ħondoq ir-Rummien, together with San Niklaw and the Blue Lagoon area on Comino. GZ- Requests for development permission to rehabilitate existing buildings and structures Outside Development This will be kept into consideration TRSM-2 Zones (for during management planning process tourism accommodation) may be favourably considered provided that proposals comply with Development as relevant. Control Guidance: Development Outside Built-up Areas (PLP 20) or its subsequent revisions but subject to policy GZ- AGRI-3. GZ- Proposals to encourage informal rural recreation will be given favourable consideration provided that the This will be kept into consideration RECR-1 following during management planning process

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L. Plan Relevance to management plan Description Policy process conditions are observed: as relevant. a)physical intervention shall be limited to the re-instatement of pre-existing rural features and upgrading of existing countryside lanes to facilitatewalking for pedestrians; b)proposals to encourage pedestrian and vehicular segregation along existing carriageways will be favourably considered provided that vehicular circulation, safety and environmental considerations are all taken into account; c)proposals to introduce new access for vehicular traffic shall not be considered; the creation of new routes (pedestrian or otherwise) ongarrigue, through boulder screes or other environmental sensitive areas shall be prohibited; d) where existing routes pass through ecologically important sites that would be negatively affected by trampling, such as sand dunes and marshlands, their continued use shall be subject to the findings of a detailed ecological impact assessment. If the findings ofthe assessment indicate that continued use of the route will cause damage to the ecological areas, the route will be closed down and nearby detours considered within the light of the ecological impact assessment; e) additional soft landscaping of an informal nature will be favourably considered. All planting shall conform to the criteria of the Guidance on Planting. A number of sites which qualify for specific types of informal rural recreation are indicated inthe relevant area policies. GZ- MEPA will encourage the creation of swimming zones as well as the zoning of other marine related activities This will be kept into consideration RECR-2 in order to minimize conflicts and increased safety measures in heavily used bays. MEPA shall also support during management planning process the Malta Maritime Authority and the respective Local Councils in the formulation of Marine Area as relevant. Management Plans for these localities. GZ- Proposals for upgrading walkways indicated on MAP 10.3.3 will be favourably considered by MEPA provided The management plan area includes RECR-3 that all the following criteria are observed: walkways as indicated in the local plan. a) the proposal shall include one or more whole circular routes wherever possible; b) a management programme that clearly indicates responsibilities and accountabilities, phasing of projects, implementation and maintenance programmes, will be prepared and submitted together with the planning application; and c) proposals for the creation of new pedestrian routes (i.e. excluding vehicular access) other than those indicated on MAP 10.3.3will need to be strongly justified. The creation of new pedestrian routes on garrigue or boulder screes shall be prohibited. GZ- MEPA will safeguard Areas of Agricultural Value and these are indicated on MAP 11.2.Requests for The SAC and SPA include Areas of AGRI-1 development permission for agriculture relateddevelopment in these areas which will result in the Agricultural Value in Wied l-Aħmar and

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L. Plan Relevance to management plan Description Policy process subdivision of agricultural land, will be refused. Il-Ħażina area. GZ- MEPA shall encourage the rehabilitation of existing rubble walls which lie in a state of disrepair. However, in This will be kept into consideration AGRI-5 line with policy GZ-AGRI-1, MEPA shall discourage the further subdivision of agricultural land. Proposals for during management planning process increase in height of rubble walls along country lanes or country roads may be permitted provided thatthe as relevant. overall height above the road surface does not exceed0.75 m. In accordance with Structure Plan Policy AHF8, MEPA will encourage the appropriate Government agencies including the Department of Agriculture and local councils, to promote a grant scheme to assist farmers and landowners to reinstate and maintain random rubble walls throughout the countryside with priority given to walls alongside rural roads, and the removal of visual intrusions, provided that, subject to the provisions of GZ-AGRI-5, the alignment of existing rubble walls is retained. GZ- The areas indicated on MAP 13.1-A and MAPS 14.2-E to 14.15-E (where applicable)include areas and sites The management plan area includes RLCN-1 that have been scheduled by MEPA for their environmental, scientific or cultural importance or are proposed scheduled sites (Table 1). for scheduling according to the provisions of Structure Plan policies RCO’s 1-5 and RCO’s 10-12. Scheduled sites and areas designated by MEPA for protection include also Natura 2000 Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) of international importance. In addition to all the minor islets, the areas indicated on MAP 13.1-B shall be designated as Areas of High Landscape Sensitivity (AHLSs). Apart from the normal restrictions on development in rural areas, there shall be a strong presumption against the creation of new built structures (including cultivation and animal husbandry related structures) in AHLSs. The guidance provided in the Explanatory Memorandum to the Structure Plan clauses 15.34 to 15.40 shall also apply. The strategic guidance emerging from the Structure Plan Review may include additional areas and shall introduce a hierarchy of importance within the AHLSs. GZ- Except for areas specifically earmarked in this plan, there shall be a general presumption against any form of The management plan will take note of RLCN-3 development (including reclamation for cultivation purposes) on garrigue in Gozo or Comino (as shown in this policy. MAP 13.3). GZ- There shall be a general presumption against the passage of services through garrigue (shown on MAP 13.3). The management plan will take note of RLCN-4 In this policy. situations where the service providers tangibly demonstrates that other options have been explored but found to be unacceptable from an operational point of view, the creation of underground ducts to accommodate such services may be considered. In such cases, the extent of the intervention shall be limited in scale and extentto the least possible degree. Mitigation measures shall also be adopted during the construction and operational phases of the project (including access during construction and maintenance

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L. Plan Relevance to management plan Description Policy process routines). No construction debris shall be left on site after cessation of works and to this effect, the deposition of an adequate bank guarantee shall be a condition of the relevant development permission. GZ- The areas indicated in MAP 10.3.3 are indicated as candidate sites for rehabilitation of damaged landscapes. The management plan area includes RLCN-5 Rehabilitation can also be integrated with the provisions of local plan policies GZ-RECR-1, 2 and 3. candidate areas for rehabilitation of damaged landscapes as indicated in the local plan. GZ- The areas shown in MAP 13.4 shall be considered as locations for the siting of afforestation projects The SAC and SPA includes a proposed RLCN-6 according to the provisions of Structure Plan policy RCO 31 and subject to the findings of a study assessing site for afforestation and includes the effect of such afforestation on the environment of the area. Submissions for development permission areas already afforested. shall include details on the implementation of the project as well as its management. The incorporation of features that help to attract wildlife as well as the re-creation of the entire habitat (complete with undergrowth vegetation) is particularly encouraged. Monocultures shall not be acceptable. Where possible and appropriate, proposals for afforestation projects shall include routes to channel the flow of pedestrian visitors through the area. These afforested areas shall not be made accessible to vehicular traffic, although very limited access to emergency vehicles will be considered on a case-bycase basis, depending on the sizeand importance of the site as well as the proximity of existing carriageways. Afforested areas created for public enjoyment are to include fire-fighting stations and rubbish collection points at strategic locations. GZ- The coastal area delineated in MAP 13.6 shall be designated to safeguard Public Coastal Access in terms of The management plan will take note of COAS-1 Structure Plan policy CZM 3. The public shall have a right to free and unhindered access to these areas. This this policy. right shall not however be interpreted as a right to the provision of facilities to improve access. A Coastal Viewshed Protection Zone is also being indicated on MAP 13.6.Unless otherwise specified in this policy document, development in these areas shall be restricted to the maintenance of existing traditional coastal features with no lateral increase in built footprint or vertical increase in height of the built structures. The relevant coastal areas may also be safeguarded for their ecological, natural heritage or landscape importance as indicated through policy GZ-RLCN-1. GZ- MEPA will favourably consider projects aimed at replenishing existing sandy beaches in Gozo and Comino. All Planning Application PA/03255/99 for COAS-2 such projects shall be subject to a development permit application and to the findings of an environmental the installation of an artificial beach at impact assessment. All sand used in such projects shall be obtained from sources approved by MEPA and the San Niklaw Bay was approved by project shall be monitored throughout its implementation phase and beyond. On Gozo, beach MEPA. replenishmentshall initially be considered only for Xlendi, Marsalforn, Qbajjar and Ħondoq ir-Rummien whereas on Comino, these shall be limited to San Niklaw Bay. The feasibility or otherwise ofprojects in other bays shall only be determined following the execution and monitoring of projects in the above-mentioned

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L. Plan Relevance to management plan Description Policy process areas. Proposals for the creation of sandy beaches where none existed shall not be accepted. GZ- In view of its status as a Natura 2000 Site and Special Area of Conservation (International Importance) and as The management plan will take note of COMI-1 a Nature this policy. Reserve and pending its formalscheduling as an Area of Ecological Importance and a Siteof Scientific Importance, the entire island of Comino, together with its associated minor islets, shall be afforded the same level of protection as scheduled property in line withthe protective bands referred to in the Natural Protective Inventory. Any interventions that may be permissible shall be governed by the provisions of Structure Plan policies RCO11 and RCO 12 and Clauses 15.34 to 15.40 of the Explanatory Memorandum to the Structure Plan. Furthermore, the provisions of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act shall apply in full. GZ- In the light of the provisions of policy GZ-COMI-1and in view of its status as a Rural Conservation Area, The management plan will take note of COMI-2 Comino shall continue to be protected from urban related development. Development interventions shall this policy. thus be limited to the maintenance of natural habitats and essential infrastructural interventions required for communication between Malta and Gozo. Any such interventions must have regard to and cause the least disruption to the landscape, while affected areas shall be reinstated. The direction given in the relevant GZ- UTIL policies as well as policy GZ-RLCN-3 and 4, should thus be observed. GZ- MEPA will actively encourage the establishment of a Management Agency that will be entrusted with the The management plan will take note of COMI-3 active management of the island and its surrounding waters, in line with ecological and sustainable this policy. development principles that shall be embodied in a management plan for the island. The Agency shall be set up as an autonomous organization reporting to the environmental regulatory authorities. It shall also include representativesof the local inhabitants and the major users on the island. GZ- The areas shown in MAP 13.8 shall be designated as Dark Sky Heritage Areas. Where relevant, reflective signs The site includes an area designated as DARK-1 shall be employed to guide driving at night, whilst the installation of lighting which is not related to aerial or Dark Sky Heritage Area. maritime navigation, shall be strongly discouraged. GZ- In line with the requirement to maintain the ecological equilibrium on Comino, MEPA shall require the An application (PA/08224/94) for the Ghjn-8 removal of clutter around the hotel at il-Bajja ta’ San Niklaw and the tourist complex at il-Bajja ta’ Santa extension of the existing hotel was Marija as well as the general rehabilitation of these areas. There shall be a general presumption against the submitted but was subsequently further development of built facilities on Comino which entail additions in height, extent or intensity of use of withdrawn by the applicant. existing or proposed facilities. Additional landscaping within these same areas (according to the Guidance on Planting) shall be given favourable consideration. Favourable consideration shall be given to soft landscaping screening measures applied at the perimeter of the existing development provided that the Guidance on Planting is adhered to and that undisturbed garrigue is avoided to this effect. GZ- MEPA shall give favourable consideration to the upgrading of the existing complex at Comino known as “il- The management plan will take note of

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L. Plan Relevance to management plan Description Policy process Ghjn-9 Palazz”, provided that the main thrust ofthe structural interventions shall be limited to the conservation and this policy. restoration of the building (including the removal of alien materials and accretions). Additions to the building shall be strictly prohibited. The preferred use of the complex shall include a research establishment or headquarters ofa national or international organization which effectively enhances its prestige through the sensitive restoration of the building. The incorporation of an educational/visitor centre on the environmental importance of Comino and its associated islets, will also be encouraged. The development of a visitor centre at ‘il-Forn’ shall be actively encouraged. This centre shall provide interpretation facilities and information on the ecosystems and various habitats of the island as well as its varied history. GZ- The existing unofficial camping site at il-Bajja ta’ Santa Marija shall be immediately closed down and this The management plan will take note of Ghjn- important site rehabilitated following detailed scientific studies of the area. As an alternative, the site this policy. 10 indicated on MAP 14.2-A1shall be designated as a safeguarded area for camping activities. These sites are to be managed and provided with all basic amenities such as showers, toilets and rubbish collection facilities. GZ- Consolidation of the existing routes on Comino through a method which reduces surface wear but at the The management plan will take note of Ghjn- same time having a surface which resembles a pedestrian country-path will be promoted. Limited this policy. 11 inconspicuous signage (not pole mounted) may be permitted at the route intersections. Artificial illumination of the pedestrian and vehicular routes on Comino shall be prohibited. GZ- In conformity with Structure Plan policy MCO 1, the coastal waters around the entire Island of Comino and its This will be kept into consideration Ghjn- associated group of islets shall be designated as a Marine Conservation Area (MCA). This designation shall be during management planning process 12 followed up with a detailed zoning and management plan based on a scientific survey of the entire coastal as relevant. area, which shall identify the outer boundary of the MCA (which in the interim shall extend to 200 m. from the shoreline), specific activities that are acceptable within the various zones as well as the management strategy for each. Pending the preparation ofdetailed policy guidance on Marine Conservation Areas, the Marine Conservation Area Management Plan for Cominoshall, amongst others: a) promote sustainable use of the area; b) regulate diving activity in the waters around the island; c) regulate boating and yachting activities, including anchoring, in order to ensure safety to swimmers and other users of the area and safeguarding important benthic habitats; d) establish swimming zones in the Blue Lagoon, San Niklaw and Santa Marija Bays; e) regulate and rationalize maritime traffic, especially in the bays; f) regulate harvesting of marine living resources; g) promote research on the marine environment; h) monitor the quality of the marine environment; and

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L. Plan Relevance to management plan Description Policy process i) establish an educational programme centred on the Marine Conservation Area (MCA). GZ- The sites shown on MAP 14.2-A1 shall be considered as priority sites for ecological afforestation projects. The The management plan will take note of Ghjn- interventions in these areas shall aim at recreating typical Mediterranean habitats relevant to the area in this policy. 13 question, complete with the entire ecological habitat structure. The implementation and managementof these areas shall be vested in the Management Agency to be set up as per policy GZ-COMI-3. GZ- MEPA shall encourage the Malta Maritime Authority to undertake a more efficient management of maritime This will be kept into consideration Ghjn- traffic around Comino and in particular in the Blue Lagoon area, so as to minimize conflicts between maritime during management planning process 14 activity and other recreational uses in the area. Proposals to minimize clutter in these areas of scenic beauty as relevant. will be particularly encouraged so as to provide an improved visual experience to visitors. In order to achieve this, MEPA will encourage the establishment of swimming zones at the Blue Lagoon, il-Bajja ta’ San Niklaw and il-Bajja ta’ Santa Marija. GZ- In accordance with General Policy GZ-TRAN-13, MEPA will encourage the development of Destination Ports in This will be kept into consideration Ghjn- appropriate areas around Comino with a view to completely prohibit anchoring of individual boats in the during management planning process 15 Marine Conservation Area established in policy GZ-Ghjn-12. as relevant. GZ- MEPA will encourage the provision of alternative means of sewage management for Comino, with a view to This will be kept into consideration Ghjn- eliminate the current sewage outflows from the Island. The preferred option would be a small during management planning process 16 sewagetreatment plant in the hotel grounds. as relevant. GZ- The area indicated as a watercourse protection channel (see MAP 14.5-A) shall be retained free from any The management plan will take note of Ghjn- development or other obstructions to surface water flow. this policy. 17

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ANNEX 3 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY OF CONSERVATION STATUS

The assessment of Conservation Status of habitats and species was done in accordance with methodology provided by the Competent Authority, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA).

Table A-3 illustrates each of the parameters that were evaluated individually and were then used to establish the overall Conservation Status for each habitat type at each Natura 2000 site. The table presents the evaluation matrix for this assessment. The evaluated parameters are Area, Structure and Function (including typical species) and Future Prospects (in terms of area covered, structure and function). Typical species were identified with reference to Article 17 reporting sheets for the Maltese Islands and the European Commission’s Interpretation Manual of European Habitats Eur 27 (2007). Habitat evaluation was based on surveys carried out between 2012 and 2013, during which all Natura 2000 sites were visited; desk-top research and expert judgement were also used. The level of confidence in the habitats assessment is generally considered to be moderate.

Table A-4 presents the methodology for evaluation of parameters relevant in the assessment of species; the parameters are Range, Size of Population, Habitat for the Species, and Future Prospects (including range, population, its sustainability and habitat availability). Although during the habitat surveys Annex II species were actively noted, no specific species surveys were carried out. Instead, particularly for Annex II fauna, existing data and expert judgement provided the basis for the evaluation. In many cases, however, insufficient data was available that did not allow for a robust evaluation. In such cases, the Conservation Status was defined as Indeterminate. Due to the lack of data, most Annex II species evaluations were carried out with a low to moderate (in the case of some plants) level of confidence.

Table A-4 was also used to evaluate the conservation status of Annex I birds, breeding birds and migratory birds listed in the Birds Directive. The evaluations carried out on Annex I breeding seabirds were carried out with a high level of confidence given the fact that they were based on trend data for the most part spanning over approximately 25 years (data provided by John J Borg). Evaluations of other birds were carried out with a moderate level of confidence.

It is noted that the evaluation of all Annex I habitats and Annex II species was carried out at site level. Despite this, however, where necessary, the evaluation identifies scenarios where nation-wide data is required in order to obtain a more robust understanding at site level e.g. in the case of bats. Also, even though assessment was carried out at site level, expert judgement and associated desk-top and field surveys included an element of comparison to examples of each habitat-type at various sites. It should also be noted that Favourable Reference Values (FRVs), against which certain parameters used to evaluate habitats and species should be assessed, have not yet been assigned in the Maltese Islands. To reiterate, therefore, all evaluations have been undertaken in the absence of FRVs, and based largely on expert judgement.

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Table A-3: Evaluating the current condition of a habitat type Parameter / Description of Parameter Description of Current Condition Criterion

Favourable Unfavourable – Inadequate Unfavourable – Bad (green / A) (amber / B) (red / C)

Area The area occupied by the habitat type. The area of the habitat is Any other condition other than The area has significantly Evaluation of area includes consideration stable in the long-term or A or C. deteriorated in coverage or of: increasing (based on current decreasing or may decrease due area, previous records or This category could be: to significant pressures and • current area evidence on site or, in the threats. • previous distribution, if available, case of increasing area, the • B1 if the condition of the which may indicate changes or presence of factors area is inadequate but This category could be: stability in the area and any contributing to the increase) improving correlation with factors • B2 if the condition of the • C1 if the condition of the • evidence on site that the area has area is inadequate and area is bad but improving changed or is stable or is occupying stable • C2 if the condition of the its full potential • B3 if the condition of the area is bad and stable • presence of factors which may be area is inadequate and • C3 if the condition of the influencing the current area at deteriorating* area is bad and present (e.g. encroaching deteriorating* agricultural land, competing habitat) (This evaluation is based on current area, previous records (This evaluation is based on or evidence on site or presence current area, previous records of factors contributing to a or evidence on site or presence change in area (positively in the of factors contributing to a case of B1 and negatively in the change in area (positively in the case of B3) case of C1 and negatively in the case of C3) Structure & The structure of a given habitat type can be The structure (including Any other condition other than More than 25% of the area is in function compared with the data of the EU typical species) and function A or C. a bad condition with regard to (including Interpretation Manual, the associated (including ecological its structure and function typical PHYSIS interpretations and the requirements) of the habitat This category could be: (including typical species) species) interpretation of each habitat (and its is in good condition, no

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Parameter / Description of Parameter Description of Current Condition Criterion typical species) provided at Malta’s significant deteriorations • B1 if the condition of the This category could be: national level through Malta’s reporting are experienced and no structure and function is sheets for Article 17. Not all typical species pressures are present. inadequate but • C1 if the condition of listed therein need to be present at the site improving structure and function is for the habitat to be interpreted as such. • B2 if the condition of the bad but improving structure and function is • C2 if the condition of the Function refers to the ecological processes inadequate and stable structure and function is and capacity of the habitat to maintain its • B3 if the condition of the bad and stable structure. structure and function is • C3 if the condition of the inadequate and structure and function is Typical species , as defined above, are also deteriorating* bad and deteriorating* included in this assessment. In order to assess the overall condition of the typical (This evaluation is based on the (This evaluation is based on the species consideration can be given to structure (including typical structure (including typical typical species richness, coverage of the species) and function (including species) and function (including ruderals, ermes, invasive plant species and ecological requirements) of the ecological requirements) of the degree of interfloral competition affecting habitat and presence of habitat and presence of the area covered by the habitat. pressures or threats). pressures or threats). Future Capacity and probability of the habitat type The habitat prospects for its Any other condition other than The habitat prospects are bad, prospects (as concerned on the site in question to future are excellent / good, A or C. with severe impacts from regards area maintain its structure for the future, given with no significant impacts threats expected. The long-term covered, on the one hand the possible unfavourable from threats expected. The This category could be: viability is not assured. structure & influences and on the other hand all the long-term viability is also function) reasonable conservation effort which is assured. • B1 if the future prospects This category could be: possible. are inadequate but • C1 if the future prospects improving are bad but improving • B2 if the c future • C2 if the future prospects prospects are inadequate are bad and stable and stable • C3 if the future prospects • B3 if the future prospects are bad and are inadequate and deteriorating* deteriorating*

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Parameter / Description of Parameter Description of Current Condition Criterion OVERALL CONDITION If the condition of all If the condition of one or more If the condition of one or more parameters is evaluated as parameters is Unfavourable- parameters is Unfavourable- favourable (green/A), then Inadequate (amber/B) and Bad (red/C) , then the overall the overall condition of the none of the parameters is condition of the habitat is habitat is FAVOURABLE evaluated as Unfavourable-Bad UNFAVOURABLE –BAD (red/C). (green/A). (red/C) , then the overall condition of the habitat is UNFAVOURABLE – INADEQUATE (amber/B) . * If one does not wish to assign a sub-category to this conservation status assessment, it would be sufficient to have a reasonably good justification from which this can be extracted by the reader. Source: MEPA

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Table A-4: Evaluating the current condition of a species Parameter / Description of Parameter Description of Current condition Criterion

Favourable Unfavourable – Inadequate Unfavourable – Bad (green / A) (amber / B) (red / C)

Range Area over which a species is usually to be The range should be stable Any other condition other than Large decline in the range (or found in the protected area being or increasing and must not A or C evidence of loss from one year considered, and shows outer limits of the be contracting (based on to the next), which is foreseen overall area in which the species is found at current range, previous This category could be: to have a significant impact on present. Useful information to assess range records or evidence on site the survival of the species / includes: or, in the case of increasing • B1 if the condition of the population range, the presence of range is inadequate but • current range factors contributing to the improving This category could be: • previous records, if available, which increase) • B2 if the condition of the may indicate changes or stability in range is inadequate is • C1 if the condition of the the range and any correlation with and stable range is bad but factors; • B3 if the condition of the improving • evidence on site that the range has range is inadequate and • C2 if the condition of the changed or is stable/at its full deteriorating* range is bad and stable potential • C3 if the condition of the • presence of factors (such as abiotic (This evaluation is based on range is bad and factors) which may be influencing the current range, previous records deteriorating* current range at present or in the or evidence on site or presence future. of factors contributing to a (This evaluation is based on • range required for viability of species, change in range (positively in current range, previous records including consideration of the case of B1 and negatively in or evidence on site or presence connectivity the case of B3) of factors contributing to a change in range (positively in the case of C1 and negatively in the case of C3)

Size of The following information is commonly The size of the population is Any other condition other than Large decline in the size of the population needed for each species: maintained or increasing A or C population and reproduction,

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Parameter / Description of Parameter Description of Current condition Criterion • estimate of the population size and reproduction, mortality mortality and age structure are • unit used to express population size and age structure are This category could be: significantly affecting the long- maintained at a healthy term viability of the species. Examples of units commonly used are given balance. Maintenance • B1 if the population size below: should be at the minimum is inadequate but This category could be: • number of individuals or estimation necessary to ensure long- improving thereof - (normally adult individuals) term viability of the species. • B2 if the population size • C1 if the population size - As for vascular plant species, it is is inadequate is and is bad but improving possible to count/estimate the stable • C2 if the population size number of flowering plants only • B3 if the population size is bad and stable and/or to exclude seedlings. For is inadequate and • C3 if the population size vegetatively reproducing plants, deteriorating* is bad and deteriorating* either tufts/clumps or individual shoots or rosettes may be regarded as ‘individuals’. • area covered by population - estimation of the total area covered by the species, expressed in m2; • number of localities - a geographical area inhabited by a set of individuals which are able to reproduce or occur on a long-term basis and cover continuous space in a given period. ‘Continuous space’ means a portion of the territory with suitable biotic and abiotic conditions for the long- term occurrence of the species delimited by natural or artificially made ecological barriers, possibly also by social relationships or by some length of distance. Habitat for Area thought suitable for the species, both Area of the habitat is Any other condition other than Area of the habitat is clearly not the species currently occupied and currently sufficiently large, stable or A or C sufficiently large to ensure the

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Parameter / Description of Parameter Description of Current condition Criterion unoccupied but suitable. The abiotic increasing and sufficient long term survival of the species features and structure of the habitat and good quality habitat exists This category could be: OR habitat quality is bad, clearly biological requirements of the species to support the population in not allowing long term survival should be taken into consideration as much the long term. • B1 if the habitat for the of the species. as possible. species is inadequate but improving This category could be: Pollinators, predators, symbionts and • B2 if the habitat for the fructivores of the species should be taken species is inadequate is • C1 if the habitat for the into consideration where relevant. and stable species is bad but • B3 if the habitat for the improving species is inadequate and • C2 if the habitat for the deteriorating* species is bad and stable • C3 if the habitat for the species is bad and deteriorating*

Future Capacity and probability of the species The species prospects for its Any other condition other than The species prospects are bad prospects (as concerned in the site in question to future are excellent / good, A or C or its future, with severe regards maintain its population dynamics and the with no significant impacts influence of pressures and range, availability of its habitat, given on the one from threats and pressures This category could be: threats expected. The long-term population, hand the possible unfavourable influences expected. The long-term • viability is not assured. including its and on the other hand all the reasonable viability is also assured. • B1 if the future prospects long-term conservation effort which is possible. are inadequate but This category could be: sustainability improving and habitat • B2 if the c future • C1 if the future prospects availability) prospects are inadequate are bad but improving and stable • C2 if the future prospects • B3 if the future prospects are bad and stable are inadequate and • C3 if the future prospects deteriorating* are bad and deteriorating*

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Parameter / Description of Parameter Description of Current condition Criterion If the condition of all If the condition of one or more If the condition of one or more parameters is evaluated as parameters is Unfavourable- parameters is Unfavourable- favourable (green/A), then Inadequate (amber/B) and none Bad (red/C) , then the overall the overall condition of the of the parameters is evaluated condition of the habitat is habitat is FAVOURABLE as Unfavourable-Bad (red/C) , UNFAVOURABLE –BAD (red/C). (green/A). then the overall condition of the habitat is UNFAVOURABLE – INADEQUATE (amber/B) . * If one does not wish to assign a sub-category to this conservation status assessment, it would be sufficient to have a reasonably good justification from which this can be extracted by the reader. Source: MEPA

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ANNEX 4 SPECIFICATIONS OF MANAGEMENT ACTIONS

A.4.1 GUIDELINES FOR STANDARD MONITORING PLANS FOR ANNEX I HABITATS AND ANNEX II SPECIES OF THE HABITATS DIRECTIVE AND ANNEX I SPECIES OF THE BIRDS DIRECTIVE

This section provides concise guidelines as regards the scope, the preparatory actions the requirements and deliverables of this action.

The Management Plan (MP) has identified the need for the establishment of a National monitoring programme applicable to the Maltese Islands Annex I habitats and Annex II species of the Habitats Directive and Annex I birds of the Birds Directive and a number of other relevant bird species (see Table A-5 and Table A-6). This monitoring programme consists of the development of standard monitoring plans specific for each habitat and species and the subsequent application of them in the field. The design of the standard monitoring plans will build on the habitat/species conservation assessment work carried during the development of the Management Plans for the terrestrial Natura 2000 sites. The elaboration of the monitoring plans is a once for all action and it is independent of any other action foreseen in the MPs This task is a responsibility of ERA in connection with the habitats and species of the Habitats Directive listed in the tables below and the Wild Birds Regulation Unit within the Parliamentary Secretariat for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights in connection with the bird species listed in the table below and it will be accomplished within the first two years of the MP implementation in order to allow for the subsequent implementation and field testing of the monitoring plans, ideally within the last three years of the first MP period. This monitoring programme will ensure that data continues to be collected and that the data gathered over the MP period informs the re-assessment of the Conservation Status of habitats and species after the first planning period (5 years). Moreover, the data gathered will be used to determine Favourable Reference Values for garrigue and steppe habitats and for four Annex II plant species ( Elatine gussonei , Ophrys melitensis , Anacamptis urvilleana and Linaria pseudolaxiflora ) (see Table A-7).

Table A-5: Maltese Islands Annex I Habitats and Annex II Species to be monitored

Code Name

Annex I habitats

1150 Coastal lagoons 1170 Reefs 1210 Annual vegetation of drift lines 1240 Vegetated sea cliffs of the Mediterranean coasts with endemic Limonium spp. 1310 Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand 1410 Mediterranean salt meadows ( Juncetalia maritimi ) 1420 Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs ( Sarcocornetea fruticosi ) 1510 Mediterranean salt steppes ( Limonietalia ) 2110 Embryonic shifting dunes

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Code Name

2210 Crucianellion maritimae fixed beach dunes 2220 Dunes with Euphorbia terracina 3140 Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara spp. 3170 Mediterranean temporary ponds 5230 Arborescent matorral with Laurus nobilis 5330 Thermo-Mediterranean and pre-desert scrub 5410 West Mediterranean clifftop phryganas ( Astragalo-Plantaginetum subulatae ) 5420 Sarcopoterium spinosum phryganas 5430 Endemic phryganas of the Euphorbio-Verbascion 6220 Pseudo-steppe with grasses and annuals of the Thero-Brachypodietea 8210 Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation 8310 Caves not open to the public 8330 Submerged or partially submerged sea caves 9320 Olea and Ceratonia forests 9340 Quercus ilex and Quercus rotundifolia forests 9540 Mediterranean pine forests with endemic Mesogean pines 9570 Tetraclinis articulata forests 92A0 Salix alba and Populus alba galleries 92D0 Southern riparian galleries and thickets ( Nerio-Tamaricetea and Securinegion tinctoriae )

Annex II Species

P Anacamptis urvilleana P Cremnophyton lanfrancoi P Crepis pusilla P Elatine gussonei P Hyoseris frutescens P Helichrysum melitense P Ophrys melitensis P Linaria pseudolaxiflora P Orobanche densiflora P Palaeocyanus crassifolius P Petalophyllum ralfsii P Riella helicophylla I Armadillidium ghardalamensis I Brachytrupes megacephalus I Lampedusa imitratix I Lampedusa melitensis I Myrmecophilus baronii

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Code Name

I Pseudoseriscius cameroni F Aphanius fasciatus R Zamenis situla M Myotis punicus 1 M Rhinolophus hipposideros

Table A-6: Maltese Islands Bird Species to be monitored Other relevant Resident/ birds in Name Breeding Wintering connection visitors with Article 4 Tachybaptus ruficollis √ √ Hydrobates pelagicus √ Puffinus yelkouan √ Calonectris diomedea √ Aythya nyroca √ Accipitridae (Aquila pomarina, Pernis apivorus, Milvus migrans, Circus aeruginosus, Circus √ pygargus, Accipiter nisus) and Pandion haliaetus Falconidae (Falco peregrinus, Falco vespertinus, F.naumanni, F.biarmicus, F. eleonorae, √ F.subbuteo, F. tinnunculus) Ixobrychus minutus √ Himantopus himantopus √ Gallinula chloropus √ Fulica atra √ Alcedo atthis √ Wetland birds –staging (Phoenicopterus ruber, Platalea leucorodia, Pluvialis apricaria, Gallinago media, Philomachus pugnax, Porzana √ porzana, Plegadis falcinellus, Tringa glareola, Charadrius alexandrinus, Actitis hypoleucos) Charadrius dubius √ Larus michahellis √ Gulls/Terns (Larus melanocephalus, Larus √ genei, Sterna caspia) Calandrella brachydactyla √

1 The species referred to in the Annexes of the Habitats Directive is Myotis blythii s.l . Recent taxonomic data has divided this taxon into different species. The Maltese Myotis blythii s.l is now considered as Myotis punicus . Consequently, Myotis punicus is still considered as an Annex II species

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Other relevant Resident/ birds in Name Breeding Wintering connection visitors with Article 4 Acrocephalus scirpaceus √ Cisticola juncidis √ Monticola solitarius √ Sylvia melanocephala √ Sylvia conspicillata √ Passeriformes (Cettia cetti, Hirundo rustica, Muscicapa striata, Passer montanus, Emberiza √ calandra) Passeriformes (Anthus campestris, Acrocephalus schoenobaenus, Ficedula albicollis, F. parva, F.semitorquata, Lanius collurio, Phylloscopus sibilatrix, Ph. trochilus, Saxicola rubetra, Sylvia √ communis, Emberiza pusilla, Emberiza schoeniclus, Erithacus rubecula, Phylloscopus collybita, Serinus serinus)

Table A-7: FRVs to be established for the following habitats and species

Code Name

Annex I habitats

5230 Arborescent matorral with Laurus nobilis 5330 Thermo-Mediterranean and pre-desert scrub 5410 West Mediterranean clifftop phryganas ( Astragalo-Plantaginetum subulatae ) 5420 Sarcopoterium spinosum phryganas 5430 Endemic phryganas of the Euphorbio-Verbascion 6220 Pseudo-steppe with grasses and annuals of the Thero-Brachypodietea

Annex II Species

Anacamptis urvilleana Linaria pseudolaxiflora Elatine gussonei Ophrys melitensis

a. Scope

In April 2005, the Habitat Committee (committee created under Article 20 of the Habitats Directive), adopted binding requirements for the compilation of monitoring data and for the assessment of the conservation status of natural habitats and species of common interest (). Member States must ensure that the design of their monitoring programme is harmonized with the working documents of the European Commission concerning the definition and description of the parameters that are included in the reporting requirements of the EU member states under Article 17 of Directive 92/43/EC and especially with the «Art 17 guidelines» report.

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(http://circa.europa.eu/Public/irc/env/monnat/library?l=/&vm=detailed&sb=Title ).

The following parameters are specified for each of the assessment criteria to determine the Favourable Conservation Status mentioned above and defines an assessment scale (Assessment and reporting under Article 17 of the Habitats Directive – Reporting Formats for the period 2007-2012 ):

Table A-8: Parameters for determining Favourable Conservation Status according to Article 17 of the Habitats Directive

Natural habitats Species of common interest

Range (overall distribution) Range Area (actually) covered Population (size of stock) Structure and functions, including characteristic habitat structures and characteristic species Habitat for the species inventory Outlook (including impairments, threats and Outlook (including impairments, threats and long-term survival prospects) long-term survival prospects)

To ensure a unified overall survey design that is adapted to the conditions in Malta, it is important that any existing programmes for surveillance and assessment of habitats and species based on surveys carried out by scientific and nature conservation agencies are consolidated into a comprehensive, nationally uniform monitoring system. This can be done through a research and development project that will also help to appropriately channel efforts in this field.

b. Requirements

The following activities are to be coordinated:

• Adaptation of existing approaches (primarily to arrive at a uniform cross-national survey method) • Cross-national coordination of monitored parameters, field survey methods, survey intervals, sample sizes and sample distribution • Development and coordination of methods for identifying areas and habitat sizes, threats and long term survival prospects. • Utilization of synergies with other ongoing survey programmes (e.g. monitoring under the EU Water Framework Directive, the Nitrates Directive, and spatial mapping programmes) • Design of databases for data aggregation and analysis • Compliance of spatial data to the INSPIRE principles

Steps towards this standardization include preparatory actions and the establishment of monitoring protocols, Conservation Status and Favourable Conservation Status.

i. Preparatory actions

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• Bibliographic reviews, recording and spatial mapping of each habitat type / species. For each habitat type and plant species, ERA will collect, document and spatially map in GIS, the existing distribution reports at least for the past 40 years, depending on the availability and accuracy of bibliographic data (point, line or surface distribution data), and for the entire national terrain. • Data storage and analysis. All the information collected shall be registered in a database, that will have provision for recording the presence of each habitat type and plant species documented in the literature review. This database will be linked to geographical mapping of information in GIS. • Registration of data gaps concerning habitats and species and the type, intensity, frequency and location of threats/pressures/limiting factors impacting them as they have been identified by the Management Plans. • Compilation of a summary report of existing knowledge and knowledge gaps/ requirements • The above reports will be valid for the first monitoring implementation period and will be updated from the second period and on. The next steps are based on these reports. ii. Establishment of monitoring protocols, Conservation Status and Favourable Conservation Status

Standardization of field survey protocols. At this stage the following will be established per habitat type and species/species group:

• The type of field data to be collected from field sampling specific to each habitat and species/species group (presence / absence, relative abundance, density, physicochemical parameters, threats, other impact factors, etc.). • The number and positioning of sampling stations Determination of the intensity and the sampling distribution pattern of and determination of the grid reference: a) the intensity of the sampling effort, b) the distribution pattern of sampling within and outside N2000 sites and c) the reference grid (grid) per habitat type or species. • The survey intervals to be defined specifically for each species and habitat type, according to their population dynamics • The sampling methods Cross-national survey methods and census parameters will be determined for all species and habitat types justified and supported by relevant international or national standards, or by the international scientific bibliography. Methodologies adopted by existing monitoring programmes (Habitat and plant species evaluation conducted through the Management Plan elaboration, the Aphanius fasciatus monitoring programme, sea birds survey methodologies) will be incorporated. The recording of appropriate environmental parameters and of the threats/pressures/limiting factors is included and given special emphasis.

Establishment of the methodology for the assessment of the conservation status and the definition of Favourable Reference Values for habitats and species/species groups. Selection of the methods (model use, etc) most suited to the Maltese natural territory for the analysis of field data as scheduled to be collected during the implementation of the monitoring plans, justified and supported by the relevant scientific experience recently acquired through the implementation of similar projects throughout the European Union.

NOTE: It is acknowledged that some differentiation in the methodology may occur since some aspects might be site-specific, such as the need for different monitoring frequencies depending

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on the status of habitats/species and/or the levels of pressures and impacts. These discrepancies will be identified and fully recorded during the site level implementation.

c. Deliverables

The following will be delivered for each habitat and species/species group.

1. Report and database of bibliographic references consolidating all current knowledge on the conservation status of the specific habitat/species. 2. Geographical extent in which surveys will take place with grid reference for each habitat type and species/species group. 3. Field work protocols for each habitat type and each species/ species group 4. Protocol for the GIS mapping of the existing and potential spread of each species 5. Field work scheduling and repeatability requirements at yearly, monthly and weekly levels. 6. Methodology for the evaluation of the conservation status to be applied during the implementation phase. 7. Methodology for the assessment of the Favourable Reference Values and the Favourable Conservation Status to be applied during the implementation phase.

A.4.2 GUIDELINES FOR THE ELABORATION OF NATIONAL SPECIES ACTION PLANS

Action Plans for threatened species are technical instruments vital to the conservation of flora and fauna. They define the actions that need to be taken to improve the status of a threatened species.

a. Targeted species

For the first period of implementation Action Plans are intended for the following animal taxonomical groups and species.

Invertebrates: All RDB species are presently included. The list may be further refined and species grouped according to experts

Amphibians:

Discoglossus pictus

Being the only amphibian in Malta and belonging to a taxonomic group especially vulnerable to climatic changes and with special water requirements, Discoglossus pictus should be treated with priority and with a cross-country spatial reference.

Reptiles

Chalcides ocellatus tiligugu Podarcis filfolensis maltensis Telescopus fallax

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Coluber viridiflavus carbonarius Coluber algirus

Action Plans can be elaborated either for each species or species groups according to the taxonomy and ecology of species.

Mammals :

Suncus etruscus Pipistrellus pipistrellus Pipistrellus kuhlii Pipistrellus pygmaeus Plecotus austriacus Tadarida teniotis Eptesicus serotinus Mustela nivalis

Action Plans can be elaborated either for each species or species groups according to the taxonomy and ecology of species.

b. Geographical scope of Action Plans

Action plans shall take into account species’ habitats both within and outside Natura 2000 sites taking into consideration the specific species’/species groups’ ecological requirements. Especially for Discoglossus pictus and the bat species, due to specific water requirements and mobility respectively, the entire Maltese Islands should be considered as the field of application of certain conservation actions.

c. General characteristics of Action Plans

The Action Plans:

• Aim to make possible in the short and medium term to maintain or even increase number of the targeted species. They clearly define the desirable population level, in order to ensure the sustainable conservation of species in their immediate environment. • Do not contain detailed biological information and they are usually based on the best available scientific knowledge. The emphasis is on conservation (not science) and on the actions required and the changes needed to achieve the targets. • Must have clear objectives, measurable goals and the follow up process (including update of success) should be integrated in the plan and budgeted accordingly. • During the site level implementation species plans need to adapt to site-specific concerns about the species in question as regards the status of its habitat or the levels of pressures and impacts. • Need to be realistic, taking into account the social and cultural characteristics in the areas where the plans will be implemented.

d. List of headings which may be incorporated into an action plan for an animal species

A following format can be adopted:

i. Current status/assessment of future prospects of species

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• Taxonomy of the species • Biological data (reproduction, feeding habits, habitat, optimum population density, relation between species) • International, national protection status • Historical causes for decreasing numbers, current status and trends, possibilities for colonization • Current and potential threats /limiting factors • Lists of protected/unprotected areas in which the species is present and existing conservation measures taken in favor of the species • Research work carried out in situ, ex situ and results ii. Implementation of a restoration plan

• Conservation objectives • Research work to be implemented in situ (reproduction, feeding habits) justifications, proposed timetable. • Recovery plans • Management measures to be put into practice to achieve the proposed conservation objective: - in relation to the species : on- going monitoring of population, feeding, reintroduction or strengthening populations, increase of species distribution. Proposed timetables.

- in relation to its habitat and other species present: review habitat management, creation of new protected areas, establishment of nesting area (trophic improvement, increasing numbers of prey, restricting numbers of predators, adapting infrastructure and modifying numbers of tourists). Proposed timetables.

- Legislative and economic measures

- Information activities to be carried out

- Training courses for administrative officials, local and regional authorities with direct responsibility for managing the species in the field

e. Indicative list of actions

Depending on the taxonomical groups different actions can be proposed, which generally may fall under the following categories

• Policy and legislation • Future research and monitoring • Site safeguard and management • Species management and protection • Communications and publicity • Actions can indicatively include:

• Designation of new areas of vital importance for species • Reform and review of management methods for areas which have lost their original capacity to sustain the species • Surveys to determine distribution and population size • Genetic and population dynamics studies

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• Monitoring • Ex- situ conservation • Reintroduction and translocation • Water quality and quantity improvements • Special habitat management and restoration • Habitat creation • Control of competitors/predators • Wardening of sites • Communication and public awareness campaigns

Text adapted from: Council of Europe (1997). Drafting and implementing action plans for threatened species (Council of Europe publishing, Environmental Encounters No 39). Consulted document: MEPA (2011) Dossier on Wild Fauna in the Maltese Islands: Capture, Killing and Exploitation

A.4.3 GUIDELINES FOR HABITAT RESTORATION ACTIONS

P11. Restoration of habitat 1420, and 2210; for restoration and expansion of habitat 92D0; and for the expansion of habitat 2210 at Santa Marija Bay

a. Trained personnel required: Number and qualifications

4 persons, 3 with a qualification at EQF (European Qualifications Framework) Level 4 in Environmental science or sustainability, and 1 with at least a Level 5 qualification in Environmental Conservation.

b. Draft mapping of the treatment area

See Figure A-1.

c. Materials and equipment required

Heavy digging equipment, hand held tools and plants.

d. Suggested method of habitat restoration

A medium to high intensity restoration program is required for the restoration of habitats 1420, 2210 and 92D0. This will involve a number of phases as follows:

• Eradication of IAS from Santa Maria Bay : The area marked as being occupied by habitat 1420 is actually infested with Ailanthus altissima . Restoring this habitat will first be preceded by an eradication program. Eradication of this species is highly challenging (MEPA, 2013), especially in large infestations such as at Santa Marija. In view of the extent of the population, the degraded nature of the habitat, and its location behind the beach in abandoned agricultural land, it is recommended that eradication be carried out through a two-phase program. The first involves the clearing of the IAS using heavy equipment and an excavator in the end of spring. Manual cutting would be too labour intensive and is unlikely to be successful (MEPA, 2013). All above-ground material and

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rhizomes should be piled off site, and incinerated. This will be followed by the second phase involving two applications of the herbicide glyphosate, one in June, and the other the following April. The site will subsequently be fenced off to limit grazing and ensure that any emerging plants have a better chance of survival.

• Relocation of the camp site : The informal camping site shall be relocated from behind the beach at Santa Marija to a more appropriate site. This will provide land for the extension of habitats 2210 and 92D0.

• Fencing off and restoration of areas allocated for habitat 2210 : It is recommended that access to the back of the beach and some other areas is closed off to limit trampling during the restoration program. The restoration of the sand dunes within this SAC shall involve the setting up of barriers around the dunes to limit trampling, followed by a seeding program using sand dune species typical of habitat 2210 that are known to exist or have existed in Comino. To enhance the rate of establishment of vegetation, seeds will be spread throughout the restored area every year for a period of 5 years. If successful this restoration program will extend the dunes to the road just behind the beach. Unfortunately, the dunes cannot extend any further inland unless the road is removed and the sand dune allowed to develop further inland. The possibility to remove the road and relocate it, potentially further inland should be assessed in the future since its presence is severely limiting the development of habitats 2210 an 92D0.

• Restoration of habitat 1420 : This habitat has been all but lost from this area as the vegetation has been overrun by IAS. In view of this, the clearing of Ailanthus altissima shall be accompanied by further digging to create a depression that is at or below sea level. This will serve as the basis for the restoration of habitat 1420 through the formation of a euryhaline habitat. The vegetative part of the restoration programme will start a year after engineering works have been completed, precisely in early spring, following the winter rainy season. By then a pool would have formed in the engineered area. Revegetation will involve a mixed planting and seeding program using species typical of this habitat. The first involves the planting of 6-10 month old potted seedlings belonging to the dominant species. The choice of species will include species typical of habitat 1420 that are known to exist or have existed on Comino. A high planting density of 1 plant per square meter shall be applied. This will compensate for a high mortality rate in summer, ensuring that the habitat will still be established without the need to water. The second phase will involve the active seeding of cleared up areas with seeds belonging to the same species. Other species typical of this habitat may eventually become established on their own. The choice of seeds will depend on their availability. Seeding will involve the random spreading of seeds by hand throughout the area being restored. No further subsequent intervention will be required after seeding. The introduced plants will be allowed to establish themselves on their own.

• Extension of habitat 92D0 : This habitat shall be extended further inland along the area currently occupied by the camping site. The area allocated for this habitat extension does not have access to a supply of water for irrigation. This inevitably rules out the long-term irrigation of introduced plantlets. Instead a medium to low intensity restoration program, involving the planting of 6-10 month old potted seedlings of Tamarix africana is recommended. The introduced plants will not be irrigated in view of the lack of water. Thus, to increase the success rate, planting has to be done early in the rainy season in October, and the plants used will be less than one year old to ensure

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early root establishment in the field. Seedlings will be sown at a density of one tree every 4m2.

e. Method of recording habitat evolution

The areas being restored should be monitored once a year to assess the success of the restoration program. The following data should be collected:

• Quantitative data on coverage, species dominance and diversity through the use of stratified random sampling, using a 4m X 4m quadrat in the targeted area. This will allow the manager to assess the rate of establishment of the targeted habitat and the success of the restoration program. This data shall be collected once every three years in spring for a period of fifteen years after the termination of the restoration programme.

f. Demonstration / information signage required

Signage should be set up, informing people of the restoration works and how the ecosystem will develop over the next 30 years once the restoration project succeeds.

g. Reporting requirements

The above data shall be reported to ERA on an annual basis, in the compilation of the annual report required during the implementation of the Management Plan.

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Figure A-1: Actions Map for Action P11

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A.4.4 GUIDELINES FOR THE SIGNPOSTING AND SITE PROMOTION

A national interpretation strategy for the entire Natura 2000 network across the Maltese archipelago will present the required framework through which all aspects of stakeholder communication and education, product development, promotion, on-site and inter-site visitor flow management, visitor experience and revenue generation will be addressed.

The study for the design and technical specifications for signposting and promotional material will therefore be undertaken within this framework. Particularly given Malta’s size, and in recognition of current awareness of Natura 2000, the marketing potential from promoting and creating a movement around the Natura 2000 network as a whole is significant. This will considerably enhance the promotion and revenue generating value of each of the individual sites in the network, as well as serve to achieve the site-specific conservation objectives.

Critically, this approach will build upon the success of the communications and awareness raising campaign for the project, which has succeeded in fostering initial awareness of a network of local nature conservation sites with a range of different and unique attributes and assets but also with certain commonalities. It is essential, at this stage, to build upon the existing knowledge base and therefore to execute a promotional and marketing plan derived from the interpretation strategy, aimed at the promotion of Natura 2000 as a national network, within which individual sites will also be promoted for their specific attributes and assets, as well as for their relationships with other sites where there is a commonality in respect of characteristics / features, habitats and species, tourism/recreational opportunities and / or geographical location.

Another critical advantage to creating a movement around the Natura 2000 network is the ability to use the ‘pull factor’ of the more well known and already frequented sites to garner interest in the less well-known or smaller sites, by drawing on their various common attributes and by promoting these sites together. Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta' Madwarha is one of the most well-known sites; hence the site is one of a number of important Natura 2000 ‘gateway sites’.

The signposting and promotional plan for Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta' Madwarha will focus on the specific attributes and assets of the site, but will also offer the opportunity to reference and promote the national network, as well as other minor islands in the network. Given its gateway potential, information will also be provided on initiatives, events and activities planned for the Natura 2000 network as part of the national interpretation strategy.

Responsibility for delivering and implementing the Natura 2000 promotional and marketing plan, and for the study for the design and technical specifications for signposting and promotional material, will fall to a bespoke management team. Taking account of the wider international context, and with little already in place for marketing the local Natura 2000 network, this management team will have the opportunity to customise and adopt international best practices.

The interpretation strategy will serve as the basis upon which the marketing and branding strategy for the Natura 2000 network will be developed, ensuring unity and continuity of the Natura 2000 ‘brand’, not only in terms of design (logo and colours) but also its values and

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overall themes / messages. This brand will be carried through in all signposting and promotional material, as well as all Natura 2000 merchandising, events and activities.

Signposting and promotional material for Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta' Madwarha (as with all Natura 2000 sites) will be designed to deliver ‘edutainment’ – education through entertainment, in line with recreational learning theory. Such communication must provoke interest and thought within visitors and help them to personally relate with the issues at hand, whilst the core message is being naturally developed and revealed within their minds as a result of their experience of the site, guided through the interpretative services. The interpretation strategy will therefore be designed to inform and educate, as well as to guide and warn (particularly on-site signposting), in the interests of the protection and conservation management of the site as well as visitor enjoyment and safety.

An emphasis on interpretative signage will ensure that the information presented brings meaning and interest to the visitor, and that it strengthens their relationship with the site (and the Natura 2000 network generally). Warning signage will convey the necessary regulations and restrictions; however, these messages will be delivered sensitively and with sufficient justification (emphasis on interpretation). The signposting generally will be designed to welcome and encourage the visitor’s enjoyment of the site. As mentioned above, where detailed background information is required to be delivered to visitors, trained guides and innovative use of technology may present the most effective and least invasive form of communication media.

Taking account of the emphasis on there being a national interpretation strategy with bespoke branding for the Natura 2000 network as a whole, the signposting regime for individual sites will have regard to any existing signage relating to the ecological, geological, historical, cultural, etc. attributes of that site, such as at Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta' Madwarha. There may be the potential to combine signage to communicate information on other projects together with information on Natura 2000, where this is deemed to be appropriate without compromising on the objectives for the national Natura 2000 interpretation strategy.

As a general guide, all communication will reflect the main theme identified through the interpretation strategy by addressing the ‘whole’ in terms of the overall learning, emotional and behavioural objectives, and by striving for message unity through usage of standardised materials, designs, logos, layouts, text, colours, etc. The amount of information communicated will take account of the method of delivery, whether that be signage, information panels, brochures, etc.; however, signposting and promotional materials generally for Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta' Madwarha will include:

• Name of the site;

• Written and pictorial description of the particular attributes and assets of the site (ecological, geological, historical, cultural, etc.);

• Written and pictorial description of Natura 2000 in the international and national context;

• Written and pictorial description of the other minor islands in the local Natura 2000 network, specifically, Filfla u l-Gżejjer ta' Madwarha and Il-Gżejjer ta' San Pawl (Selmunett).

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• Direction / orientation information (in the case of on-site signposting) to aid site navigation; and

• Warning information (in the case of on-site signposting), in terms of the specific ‘dos and don’ts’ to take account of. Such instructions should be imparted to the visitor in as much of an intuitive way as possible, for example, by setting trails that stay clear of sensitive or fragile ecosystems or using site hardening methods (behavioural objective – to stay clear of sensitive species), whilst presenting information on how delicate or rare certain important species may be and how they are negatively affected by external factors (educational and emotional objectives).

Proposed signposting for Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta' Madwarha

Figure A-2 shows the proposed location for the signposts for this SAC. The figure illustrates two types of signposts:

• Directional signs positioned along the main roads leading to the ferry departures for the site; these signposts will generally be fixed to existing road signs (where they exist) and will typically be similar to the signs already used to indicate cultural heritage sites

• Information signs, positioned at the main access points to the site (the ferry departures) and within the site, in areas where important features are located. Eight information signs are proposed for this site. Four of the signs are general information sites about the Natura2000 sites and the importance of the site for both habitats and species. The signs should include information on the importance to keep to footpaths, where possible, in order to safeguard important species. Reference should also be made to the site being a SPA and the importance of not harming birds and their nests on the island. An additional sign denoted as Birds in Figure 1 is in relation to Action P15 on limiting access to the woodland. Three cultural heritage information panels are also proposed.

It is advised that signposts are erected in areas that are either already disturbed or where there are existing footpaths, roads, etc.; habitats should not be affected by signposts. Furthermore, since it is recommended that the Natura 2000 network is uniformly branded, it is also advised that any existing information signage be replaced by new composite signs designed in accordance with the branding specifications for the national Natura 2000 interpretation strategy.

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Figure A-2: Map showing indicative locations for signs

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A.4.5 PATROLLING SCHEDULE

Safeguarding / wardening of the protected area is the most important conservation action to be performed under the management of the Natura 2000 sites. It is a constant action and subject to continuous adaptations in line with progress in site management. As it relies entirely on the capacity of human resources it has to be regularly re-evaluated in order to remain effective and fulfil its intended objectives.

The main objectives of patrolling the Maltese Natura 2000 sites are:

• Protection of the key features, habitats and wildlife and any other important features that have been identified for each site; • Prevention of illegal actions and activities according to law; • Control of harmful human activities; • Ensuring observance of site rules and regulations by visitors, owners, and users; • Protection and maintenance of management infrastructure; • Contribution to the managers’ knowledge about the protected site; and • Contribution to the knowledge and awareness raising of visitors and users of the area.

Patrolling staff

In order to fulfil the above tasks, it is recommended that the patrolling staff fulfils the following requirements:

• It has law enforcement powers; • It is skilled in outdoor working conditions and can work unsocial hours, including weekends and public holidays; • It has mastered a knowledge of the ecological features of the site, the vision, the conservation objectives and the management principles pertaining to the site; • Accordingly, it has mastered a knowledge on the identified and potential threats to the above features and the site’s integrity; • It possesses adequate communication and interpersonal skills; and • It possesses adequate recording and reporting skills.

As such the minimum requirements for patrolling officers should be:

• Preferably have an undergraduate diploma in natural sciences or similar or, in the absence of academic qualifications, a proven interest and a number of years of experience in nature conservation (persons with no academic qualifications will be required to sit for such courses as may be identified by the site manager / MEPA); • Report writing and computer skills (word processing, spreadsheet, database); • A valid driving license; • Good knowledge of both spoken Maltese and English; • First Aid Certificate (or the willingness to acquire this); • Fire-fighting certificate, especially for shrub fires (or the willingness to acquire this); • A clean police conduct; and • Preferably have map reading and trekking capabilities;

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• Preferably have a medical certificate attesting to the fitness and health of the officers that would not hinder them from carrying out their job or placing them at undue risk.

Staff training

Patrolling staff should undergo a series of training seminars that are prepared and implemented under the auspices of MEPA. It is stressed that the recording and reporting requirements of the job must be taught in detail having in mind that these invaluable field data will feed into the Work Plan at the start of the MP implementation (see below), the habitat/monitoring plans and reports and ultimately all management actions in the following years.

Training of the patrolling staff must be provided both in the office and on the field. It is therefore recommended that a trained ecologist, police officer and a local stakeholder/inhabitant escort the crew team during the first period of implementation and provide knowledge and advice. Annual evaluation and additional/further training is required.

Training will aim at:

• Basic identification of protected habitats and species present in the Maltese Natura 2000 sites; • Dealing with people and preparation of evidence for investigations. • Anthropogenic impacts on the environment; • Knowledge of Maltese environmental legislation; • Professional recording and reporting techniques; • Basic arrest-and-control techniques; and • Self-defence and first aid.

Patrolling scheme

At this stage only preliminary recommendations are provided:

• A patrolling unit consists of at least 2 officers • The patrolling unit is equipped at least with : 1 conventional vehicle, intra/inter- communication equipment, 2 pairs of binoculars, 2 cameras, detailed digital maps, outdoors clothing and equipment, reporting sheets or electronic means of recording and a first aid kit. In addition to this, the text of the actions of the site’s Management Plan and, when applicable, the text of the code of conduct of the site.

Patrolling schedule

The patrolling schedule applicable to each site and to the entire network depends on the resources allocated to this task and, as already discussed, is subject to continuous changes and improvements as management progresses.

Input for the drafting of the site specific initial patrolling schedules is given below; an initial pilot schedule is given for the first six months of implementation (see Table A-11, Table A-12 and Table A-13). Ideally, these schedules should be run in parallel and in collaboration with the drafting of the site specific Work Plans based on the site specific Management Plan. This synergy will provide invaluable input to the author of the Work Plans and guarantee the

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drafting of effective and realistic patrolling schedules available at site level very early in the implementation period.

A half-year test period is considered as an adequate time to guide the composition of an effective and realistic annual schedule plan. Note that given frequencies (weekly, fortnightly and monthly) indicate minimum standard patrolling requirements at site level as they have been evaluated by the Management Plan. No attempt has been made to distinguish periods of increased requirements (e.g. hunting periods, first period of infrastructure installation, period of trapping devices removal, etc), or give further timeframe details. This is a task to be accomplished by the patrolling schedule compiler in a trial and error fashion and provided that the required administrative and funding are available.

Patrolling schedule specifications are explained in Table A-9 and Table A-10.

Table A-9: Content explanation of Table A-11: Site Identity – Management Structure

COLUMN TITLE CONTENT

Code and Name of each Natura 2000 site CODE / NAME Identification of the extent of the area to be patrolled AREA PROPOSED SITE New area under surveillance to be added whenever applicable ENLARGEMENT MANAGEMENT Wherever other entities apart from ERA are involved in the site’s SCHEME management, the level and content of cooperation of the patrolling entity STAKEHOLDERS with these entities must be specified. Indications of minimum INVOLVEMENT collaboration requirements are given in the Management Plans at site level Existing wardening schemes are indicated at site level, to be further WARDENING SYSTEM examined and incorporated in the patrolling schedules POLICE PATROLLING Existing police patrolling schemes are indicated at site level, to be further SYSTEM examined and incorporated in the patrolling schedules Existing and proposed cleaning schemes are indicated at site level, to guide CLEANING SCHEME related collaboration and allocation of responsibility

Table A-10: Content explanation of Table A-13: Activities per site

COLUMN TITLE CONTENT

Two main categories of physical objects of safeguarding are indicated: Infrastructure maintenance including existing and proposed visitor MANAGEMENT infrastructure, signposting etc, and physical materials related to habitat ACTIVITIES TO BE manipulation works, ie. fences, seeded plots etc. These features must be SAFEGUARDED listed and mapped in detail at site level together with the key physical features (Annex I habitats, etc) under protection An initial list of the identified major and common illegal – harmful human activities at site level is given. An initial map of identified point factors can be provided based on the information available in the Management Plans. MAJOR The list is not exhaustive and other already identified and newly ILLEGAL/HARMFUL investigated activities must be added progressively after mastering of the HUMAN ACTIVITIES TO recording and reporting skills is secured. BE CONTROLLED It is stressed, that the recording and reporting of the locations, the frequencies and the intensities of these factors is probably the principal patrolling task and it will also provide invaluable field data for the monitoring plans/reports.

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Table A-11: Site Identity – Management Structure

SITE IDENTITY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE

AREA PROPOSED SITE MANAGEMENT SCHEME STAKEHOLDERS' WARDENING EXISTING POLICE CLEANING CODE NAME (ha) ENLARGEMENT EXISTING PROPOSED INVOLVEMENT SYSTEM PATROLLING SCHEME 1 L-Inħawi ta’ Għajn 54.56 LAND OWNERS / Barrani XAGHRA LOCAL COUNCIL / MINISTRY FOR GOZO / ERA 2 L-Inħawi ta’ 96.75 COMMITTEE COMMITTEE Pembroke 3 Il-Ballut tal-Wardija 20.37 ERA / LAND

OWNERS 4 Il-Maqluba (limiti tal- 2.62 LAND OWNERS / Qrendi) QRENDI LOCAL COUNCIL / MTA / ERA 5 L-Inħawi tar-Ramla 7.42 GAIA ERA / GAIA FOUNDATION FOUNDATION 6 Is-Simar (limiti ta’ 58.38 BIRDLIFE MALTA BIRDLIFE MALTA PARTIAL San Pawl il-Baħar) WETLAND (RESERVE) ENLARGEMENT 7 Is-Salini 23.67 MINISTRY FOR TRANSPORT & INFRASTRUCTUR E / ERA 8 L-Għadira s-Safra 1.54 SITE ERA

ENLARGEMENT 9 L-Inħawi tar-Ramla 74.91 BIRDLIFE MALTA BIRDLIFE MALTA tat-Torri u tal-Irdum tal-Madonna 10 Ix-Xagħra tal-Kortin 12.61 LAND OWNERS /

ST PAUL’S BAY

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SITE IDENTITY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE

AREA PROPOSED SITE MANAGEMENT SCHEME STAKEHOLDERS' WARDENING EXISTING POLICE CLEANING CODE NAME (ha) ENLARGEMENT EXISTING PROPOSED INVOLVEMENT SYSTEM PATROLLING SCHEME LOCAL COUNCIL / ERA 11 Għar Dalam 0.17 HERITAGE MALTA HERITAGE MALTA 12 Wied il-Miżieb 24.66 ERA / COMMITTEE 13 Iċ-Ċittadella 2.07 MINISTRY FOR MINISTRY FOR GOZO GOZO 14 Il-Ballut ta’ 23.3 ERA ERA

Marsaxlokk 15 L-Inħawi tal-Għadira 97.94 BIRDLIFE MALTA BIRDLIFE MALTA (part of the site) / ERA PARTIAL DIN L-ART (RESERVE) HELWA (part of the site) 16 Filfla u l-Gżejjer ta’ 6.58 ERA Madwarha 17 Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer 294.66 ERA ta’ Madwarha

18 L-Inħawi tal-Buskett 244.71 ELC (part of the ERA / PARKS PARTIAL PARTIAL u tal-Girgenti SAC) (BUSKETT (BUSKETT PARKS (part of GARDENS) GARDENS) the SAC) 19 L-Inħawi tad-Dwejra 86.93 MANAGEMENT ERA u tal-Qawra, inkluż COMMITTEE Ħaġret il-Ġeneral / Rdumijiet ta’ Għawdex: Il-Ponta ta’

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AREA PROPOSED SITE MANAGEMENT SCHEME STAKEHOLDERS' WARDENING EXISTING POLICE CLEANING CODE NAME (ha) ENLARGEMENT EXISTING PROPOSED INVOLVEMENT SYSTEM PATROLLING SCHEME Ħarrux sal-Bajja tax- Xlendi / Rdumijiet ta’ Għawdex: Il-Ponta ta’ San Dimitri sal-Ponta ta’ Ħarrux 20 L-Inħawi tax-Xlendi u 296.3 ERA tal-Wied tal-Kantra / Rdumijiet ta’Għawdex: Id- Dawra tas-Sanap sa tal-Ħajt 21 L-Inħawi tal- 176.4 MELLIEHA LOCAL ERA Imġiebaħ u Tal- COUNCIL (part of Miġnuna the site) 22 Il-Gżejjer ta’ San Pawl 10.75 ERA

(Selmunett) 23 Il-Magħluq tal-Baħar 4.42 ERA / ta’ Marsaskala LOCAL COUNCIL 24 Rdumijiet ta’Malta: MAJJISTRAL COMMITTEE Ir-Ramla taċ- PARK BOARD PARTIAL PARTIAL

Ċirkewwa sar-Ramla (part of the site) (MAJISTRAL) (MAJISTRAL) tal-Mixquqa 25 Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: GAIA COMMITTEE/ Għajn Tuffieħa FOUNDATION GAIA FOUNDATION 26 Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: COMMITTEE Ir-Ramla ta’ Għajn Tuffieħa sax-Xaqqa 27 Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: COMMITTEE

Mix-Xaqqa sal-Ponta

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SITE IDENTITY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE

AREA PROPOSED SITE MANAGEMENT SCHEME STAKEHOLDERS' WARDENING EXISTING POLICE CLEANING CODE NAME (ha) ENLARGEMENT EXISTING PROPOSED INVOLVEMENT SYSTEM PATROLLING SCHEME ta’ Bengħisa

28 L-Għar tal-Iburdan u 69.13 ERA / OWNER

l-Inħawi tal-Madwar 29 Il-Qortin tal-Magun u OWNER / ERA

il-Qortin il-Kbir 30 Rdumijiet u L-Inħawi OWNER OWNER / ERA ta’ Ta’Ċenċ

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Table A-12: Half-year patrolling schedule SIX MONTH PATROLLING SCHEDULE SITE IDENTITY (Monthly – Weekly) Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 CODE NAME W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4

1 L-Inħawi ta’ Għajn Barrani √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ 2 L-Inħawi ta’ Pembroke √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ 3 Il-Ballut tal-Wardija √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Il-Maqluba (limiti tal- 4 √ √ √ √ √ √ Qrendi) 5 L-Inħawi tar-Ramla √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Is-Simar (limiti ta’ San 6 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Pawl il-Baħar) 7 Is-Salini √ √ √ √ √ √ 8 L-Għadira s-Safra √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ L-Inħawi tar-Ramla tat- 9 Torri u tal-Irdum tal- √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Madonna 10 Ix-Xagħra tal-Kortin √ √ √ √ √ √ 11 Għar Dalam 12 Wied il-Miżieb √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ 13 Iċ-Ċittadella √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ 14 Il-Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ 15 L-Inħawi tal-Għadira √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Filfla u l-Gżejjer ta’ 16 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Madwarha Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ 17 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Madwarha L-Inħawi tal-Buskett u tal- 18 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Girgenti

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SIX MONTH PATROLLING SCHEDULE SITE IDENTITY (Monthly – Weekly) Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 CODE NAME W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4

L-Inħawi tad-Dwejra u tal- Qawra, inkluż Ħaġret il- Ġeneral / Rdumijiet ta’ Għawdex: Il-Ponta ta’ 19 Ħarrux sal-Bajja tax- √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Xlendi / Rdumijiet ta’ Għawdex: Il-Ponta ta’ San Dimitri sal-Ponta ta’ Ħarrux L-Inħawi tax-Xlendi u tal- Wied tal-Kantra / 20 Rdumijiet ta’Għawdex: √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Id-Dawra tas-Sanap sa tal-Ħajt L-Inħawi tal-Imġiebaħ u 21 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Tal-Miġnuna Il-Gżejjer ta’ San Pawl 22 √ √ √ √ √ √ (Selmunett) Il-Magħluq tal-Baħar ta’ 23 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Marsaskala Rdumijiet ta’Malta: Ir- 24 Ramla taċ-Ċirkewwa sar- √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Ramla tal-Mixquqa Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: 25 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Għajn Tuffieħa Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: Ir- 26 Ramla ta’ Għajn Tuffieħa √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ sax-Xaqqa

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SIX MONTH PATROLLING SCHEDULE SITE IDENTITY (Monthly – Weekly) Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Month 5 Month 6 CODE NAME W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4 W1 W2 W3 W4

Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: Mix- 27 Xaqqa sal-Ponta ta’ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Bengħisa L-Għar tal-Iburdan u l- 28 √ √ √ √ √ √ Inħawi tal-Madwar Il-Qortin tal-Magun u il- 29 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Qortin il-Kbir Rdumijiet u L-Inħawi ta’ 30 Ta’Ċenċ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

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Table A-13: Activities monitored through patrolling MAIN MANAGEMENT MAJOR ILLEGAL / HARMFUL HUMAN ACTIVITIES TO BE MONITORED / CONTROLLED THROUGH SITE IDENTITY ACTIVITIES TO BE PATROLLING SAFEGUARDED

CODE NAME SPECIES HABITAT HABITAT HUNTING HUNTING TRAPPING ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES TRAMPLING TRAMPLING OFF-ROADING OFF-ROADING MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT UNCONTROLLED CONSTRUCTION, CONSTRUCTION, PLANTING OF IAS OF PLANTING HUMAN ACTIVITY HUMAN INFRASTRUCTURE INFRASTRUCTURE OUTDOOR LEISURE INSTALLATION AND AND INSTALLATION DUMPING / LITTERING / DUMPING MANAGEMENT WORKS MANAGEMENT 1 L-Inħawi ta’ Għajn Barrani √ √ √ √ √ √ 2 L-Inħawi ta’ Pembroke √ √ √ √ √ √

3 Il-Ballut tal-Wardija √ √

4 Il-Maqluba (limiti tal-Qrendi) √ √ √ 5 L-Inħawi tar-Ramla √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Is-Simar (limiti ta’ San Pawl il- 6 √ √ √ √ √ √ Baħar) 7 Is-Salini √ √ √ √ √ 8 L-Għadira s-Safra √ √ √ √ L-Inħawi tar-Ramla tat-Torri u 9 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ tal-Irdum tal-Madonna 10 Ix-Xagħra tal-Kortin √ √ √ √ 11 Għar Dalam √ √ 12 Wied il-Miżieb √ √ √ √ √ 13 Iċ-Ċittadella √ √ √

14 Il-Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk √ √ √ √ √ √

15 L-Inħawi tal-Għadira √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Filfla u l-Gżejjer ta’ 16 √ Madwarha

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MAIN MANAGEMENT MAJOR ILLEGAL / HARMFUL HUMAN ACTIVITIES TO BE MONITORED / CONTROLLED THROUGH SITE IDENTITY ACTIVITIES TO BE PATROLLING SAFEGUARDED

CODE NAME SPECIES HABITAT HABITAT HUNTING HUNTING TRAPPING ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES TRAMPLING TRAMPLING OFF-ROADING OFF-ROADING MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT UNCONTROLLED CONSTRUCTION, CONSTRUCTION, PLANTING OF IAS OF PLANTING HUMAN ACTIVITY HUMAN INFRASTRUCTURE INFRASTRUCTURE OUTDOOR LEISURE INSTALLATION AND AND INSTALLATION DUMPING / LITTERING / DUMPING MANAGEMENT WORKS MANAGEMENT Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ 17 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Madwarha L-Inħawi tal-Buskett u tal- 18 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Girgenti L-Inħawi tad-Dwejra u tal- Qawra, inkluż Ħaġret il- Ġeneral / Rdumijiet ta’ Għawdex: Il-Ponta ta’ Ħarrux 19 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ sal-Bajja tax-Xlendi / Rdumijiet ta’ Għawdex: Il- Ponta ta’ San Dimitri sal- Ponta ta’ Ħarrux

L-Inħawi tax-Xlendi u tal- Wied tal-Kantra / Rdumijiet 20 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ ta’Għawdex: Id-Dawra tas- Sanap sa tal-Ħajt

L-Inħawi tal-Imġiebaħ u Tal- 21 √ √ √ √ √ √ Miġnuna Il-Gżejjer ta’ San Pawl 22 √ √ √ (Selmunett) Il-Magħluq tal-Baħar ta’ 23 √ √ √ Marsaskala

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MAIN MANAGEMENT MAJOR ILLEGAL / HARMFUL HUMAN ACTIVITIES TO BE MONITORED / CONTROLLED THROUGH SITE IDENTITY ACTIVITIES TO BE PATROLLING SAFEGUARDED

CODE NAME SPECIES HABITAT HABITAT HUNTING HUNTING TRAPPING ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES TRAMPLING TRAMPLING OFF-ROADING OFF-ROADING MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT UNCONTROLLED CONSTRUCTION, CONSTRUCTION, PLANTING OF IAS OF PLANTING HUMAN ACTIVITY HUMAN INFRASTRUCTURE INFRASTRUCTURE OUTDOOR LEISURE INSTALLATION AND AND INSTALLATION DUMPING / LITTERING / DUMPING MANAGEMENT WORKS MANAGEMENT Rdumijiet ta’Malta: Ir-Ramla 24 taċ-Ċirkewwa sar-Ramla tal- √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Mixquqa PARTIAL Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: Għajn (MAJISTRAL 25 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Tuffieħa / GHAJN TUFFIEHA) Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: Ir-Ramla 26 √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ ta’ Għajn Tuffieħa sax-Xaqqa Rdumijiet ta’ Malta: Mix- 27 √ √ √ √ Xaqqa sal-Ponta ta’ Bengħisa L-Għar tal-Iburdan u l-Inħawi 28 √ √ tal-Madwar Il-Qortin tal-Magun u il- 29 √ √ √ Qortin il-Kbir Rdumijiet u L-Inħawi ta’ 30 Ta’Ċenċ √ √ √ √ √

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ANNEX 5 COST RECOVERY MECHANISMS

Revenue generating mechanisms and self-financing opportunities for Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha are suggested. These initiatives can additionally contribute to promoting and establishing the concept of a network of Natura 2000 sites in Malta. Other funding mechanisms are also identified, excluding reference to governmental funding which could be induced in other ways, e.g. through the police undertaking patrol duties.

A.5.1 REVENUE GENERATING AND SELF -FINANCING OPPORTUNITIES

Comino is a rural site dominated by low-intensive agriculture and tourism. Its natural value is largely dependent on minimal disturbance by human presence other than agricultural use. As such revenue creation attributed to visitor attraction can be expected. The large number of visitors during the summer season mainly attracted to the Blue Lagoon could become a source of income to the site.

Apart from rodent management, and moving the campsite, the site does not require large scale interventions and costly management measures. Management requirements are limited to ecological monitoring and research, periodic patrolling and principally the active involvement of farmers, hotel owner and tourist operators in the safeguarding and sustenance of its key ecological features and natural integrity. Contribution of the operators on the island towards the management of the site should be sought. Given that there is an action related to the relocation of the campsite consideration should be given to the introduction of camping fees. The camping permit would include a fee that is paid as a deposit, once inspection is carried out by the relevant entity the deposit is returned fully if the site has been left as is or not returned if the site is not clean – this would cover costs of clearing up etc. Other activities that could generate income for the site could be diving and snorkeling, guided walks and bird watching. All activities and review generated need to be undertaken in conjunction with the site manager.

The revenue generating and self-financing potential of Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha also derives from the multi-pronged promotion and marketing of the Natura 2000 network, as set by the national interpretation strategy, which considers the importance and contribution of each site at the national level, the local (individual site) level, and at the group level (groups of related sites with commonalities). Within this context, the Natura 2000 interpretation strategy will take forward a cohesive implementation programme of innovative mechanisms aimed at direct and indirect revenue generation as well as at the network and individual site level.

Examples of direct revenue-generating initiatives that could be implemented for Kemmuna u l- Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha include:

• Introduction of a discretionary entrance fee, or donation for access to Blue Lagoon. Where there may be a reluctance to introduce a mandatory entrance fee, the practice of suggesting that visitors leave a donation towards the upkeep a heritage site has proven to be very successful nationally and internationally, often proving to yield more revenue than a small mandatory entrance fee.

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• Publication and sale of a guidebook(s) on Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha, and other advertising material, including postcards, badges, fridge magnets, and similar souvenirs.

Examples of network-wide direct revenue-generating initiatives which can be adapted to individual sites, such as Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha, may include:

• Designation of an annual ‘Natura 2000 Day’ (this could be adapted locally as ‘Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha Day’). This would be added to the local calendar of events and, similar to events such as ‘Lejlet Lapsi’, would involve the holding of fairs / activities in a number venues, including within Natura 2000 sites (not on Comino however), exposing Natura 2000 by a number of means, including guided tours, talks, promotional stands, and generating revenue through the display and sale of Natura 2000 related merchandise.

• A ‘Friends of Natura 2000’ badge scheme (adapted at the local level as a ‘Friends of Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha’ scheme), similar to established charity schemes (such as the ‘Poppy Appeal’), with badges on sale at locations within the site (or across Gozo and Malta).

• An initiative with hotels and other tourism accommodation providers, as part of their corporate social responsibility programmes, to offer guests the opportunity to round-up their bill, or to give small donation, with the monies going towards the management of the Natura 2000 network (adapted at the local level to apply to hotels in Ghajnsielem and Mellieha, and with monies directed to Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha). The MTA’s Eco-certification Scheme could be very influential in respect of this initiative; a number of hotels in Mellieha are already part of this Scheme. The initiative could also be applied to restaurants and other service providers.

• Creation of one or more ‘Natura Cafes’. Located in popular tourist locations and locations frequented by locals (adapted at the local level for a location in Mgarr harbour, and / or Mellieha, for example), and not necessarily within Natura 2000 sites (not on Comino), these could be already established cafes, or new cafes, which would act as a showcases and potentially as interpretations centre for the Natura 2000 network. Revenue would be generated from the sale of food and drink and from promotional merchandise / souvenirs. There would be set criteria for qualification as a Natura Cafe, with an emphasis on a sustainable business model (from the products on offer through to environmental management best practise); extension of the MTA’s Eco-certification Scheme to cover cafes and restaurants would be beneficial.

• An initiative with the Malta Crafts Council to produce and market a nature-themed range of crafts product (possibly a Natura 2000 themed range) that would be available on sale at Natura 2000 visitor centres, Natura cafes, and at other heritage and tourist sites.

• Initiatives with local farmers and producers to produce, market and sell food and drink (for example, honey, cheese, fruit and vegetables, wine, olive oil, etc.) and artisan crafts produced within and in the vicinity of Natura 2000 sites, marketed under the Natura 2000 brand. This would also serve to encourage diversification and economic opportunity for local producers. As an extension of direct-point sale, non-perishable food products and crafts could also be sold on-line.

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• Publication and sale of a high-quality photo book showcasing the Natura 2000 network, possibly commissioning professional photographers, but alternatively produced as the product of a photographic competition; this ‘coffee table’ book could be published in conjunction with postcards and other promotional images from the range.

Examples of network-wide in-direct revenue-generating initiatives which can be adapted to individual sites, such as Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha, may include:

• Recruitment of ‘Natura 2000 Ambassadors’ (adapted at the local level as ambassadors for Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha). These ambassadors would be tasked with raising awareness of the Natura 2000 network (or of individual sites or groups of sites, for example, all the minor islands) through their everyday activities; the ambassadors could be media personalities, experts in the field, educators, local people (particularly for individual sites), etc.

• Exposure of Natura 2000 at visitor gateways, such as Malta International Airport and all ferry terminals (adapted at the local level at the Marfa and Mgarr Comino Ferry departure points). This could be delivered together with exposure at key tourist locations and in key tourist publications, including il-Bizzilla, the Air Malta in-flight magazine.

• Initiatives with the Government’s Health Promotion Unit to encourage physical exercise and healthy lifestyles through the enjoyment of the natural environment within the Natura 2000 network. Initiatives could include low level sporting events / activities (marathons, triathlons, cycling, walks, etc) organised within the network and promoted to advertise Natura 2000 (for example, an annual sporting / recreation activity organised in conjunction with ‘Natura 2000 Day’). It must be ensured that such activities do not negatively affect the site.

• Initiatives with the Department of Education and / or with local schools education facilities to establish better access to nature conservation and the Natura 2000 network. Adapting international best practice, initiatives could include following the ‘nature kindergarten’ models which are a growing trend in Europe and the US, where exposure to and experimentation in nature is seen to significantly benefit child development. Trained nature conservation professionals (possibly site wardens) could host nature sessions with school children of all ages. Additionally, and very applicable to the local level, schools could decide to ‘adopt’ a Natura 2000 site (adapted locally in the localities of Ghajnsielem, and possibly Mellieha, as ‘Adopt Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha’).

• Targeted tourism and recreation initiatives aimed at promoting the Natura 2000 network through working off the existing marketing capacity for rural and coastal recreation activities, for example, walking, cycling, snorkelling, diving, etc.

• Creation of a network-wide ‘Natura 2000 Walks’ initiative, whereby visitors would collect stamps (stamped into a ‘Natura 2000 Walks’ dedicated booklet). A Stamp unique to each walk would be ‘collected’ after having completed the walking; a small memento could be awarded to those persons that had collected the stamps of all the Natura 2000 walks.

• Volunteering initiatives aimed at attracting international and local volunteers to undertake maintenance activities related to the ecology, geology, cultural heritage,

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awareness-raising and interpretation, etc. within Natura 2000 sites (this also has the potential to generate revenue through the introduction of a donation scheme).

• Creation of a Natura 2000 Loyalty Card (potentially operating with the ‘Friends of Natura 2000’ scheme), which would allow visitors to earn points as they visit different sites in the network, affording them discounts on Natura 2000 products and services, on activities carried out within or in the vicinity of Natura 2000 sites (for example, bicycle hire, diving, etc.), and possibly on hotels and restaurants / cafes in the localities, including the Natura Cafes.

A.5.2 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

In addition to the revenue generating initiatives on a national level, the following funding programmes provide opportunities for funding of the management and interpretation of Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha, and of the Natura 2000 network:

LIFE

A number of the management actions proposed for the site are eligible for co-funding under the Nature and Biodiversity component of the LIFE initiative.

LIFE is the EU’s financial instrument supporting environmental and nature conservation contributing approximately €3.1 billion to the protection of the environment. Since 1992, LIFE has co-financed some 3954 projects. Recently (09 December 2013) the European Council adopted a new regulation that establishes the Environment and Climate Action sub- programmes of the LIFE Programme for the next funding period, 2014–2020. The budget for the period is set at €3.4 billion in current prices.

The programme will contribute to sustainable development and to the achievement of the objectives and targets of the Europe 2020 Strategy, the 7th Union Environmental Action Programme and other relevant EU environment and climate strategies and plans.

The ‘Environment’ strand of the new programme covers three priority areas: environment and resource efficiency; nature and biodiversity; and environmental governance and information. The new regulation is in force from the 1st of January 2014.

European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development

The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) is an important funding source for the taking forward of management actions for the site, providing for direct payments to farmers to compensate for implementing Natura 2000 related management requirements.

The EAFRD will continue to provide this and several other opportunities to fund Natura 2000 management and interpretation related activities during the EU 2014-2020 funding period. As during 2007-2013, the new round of EAFRD funding includes specific provisions for the LEADER approach, supporting the implementation of EAFRD objectives through the local action groups (LAGs). The new round also includes a provision to support the implementation of European Innovation Partnership (EIP) on Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability, with the objective of promoting a resource efficient, productive, low emission, climate friendly and resilient

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agricultural sector, and improving processes to preserve the environment, adapt to climate change and mitigate it. This opens up new opportunities for financing Natura 2000 related activities, for example, in the support of innovative approaches for agriculture and farming within and in the vicinity of Natura 2000 sites.

Structural Funds

The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) provides some opportunities to fund Natura 2000 management activities during the period 2014-2020, with a number of actions eligible under the ‘Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services’ stream of the initiative; the ERDF provides for direct support for the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem services. There is also potential for funding for management and interpretation activities indirectly, through the ERDF’s support for broader sustainable development, for example, through the protection and promotion of cultural heritage.

The Cohesion Fund delivers a wide range of measures linked to the management of Natura 2000, as well as wider green infrastructure, and will continue to provide an important funding opportunity for Natura 2000 management actions during the 2014-2020 funding period. These funds can directly support restoration and conservation measures as well as support investments in sustainable tourism, awareness-raising, training and education, and communication and information activities relating to Natura 2000. Opportunities for Natura 2000 management are also available through investment support in the broader sustainable development sphere, for example, supporting investment in the adaptation to climate change.

The European Social Fund (ESF) addresses the support of economic and social cohesion but offers the opportunity for funding of actions and activities with possible indirect links to Natura 2000 management, for example, enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized Natura 2000-related enterprises.

Horizon 2020

Horizon 2020 is the new EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, aimed at contributing to the creation of growth and jobs in research, innovation and technological development. The Programme will run from 2014 to 2020, with approximately €80 billion budgeted for this period. Thematic areas of interest for Natura 2000 include health, sustainable agriculture, the bio-economy, climate action, resource efficiency and raw materials.

Horizon 2020 offers opportunities for Natura 2000 management-related activities in respect of the research, development and testing of new management approaches and the evaluation and monitoring of management regimes.

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Natura 2000 Management Plan

ANNEX 6 MAPS

This section includes the maps of the site in A3 format.

page A-64 Epsilon-Adi

Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha

A.6.1 BOUNDARY MAP

Epsilon-Adi page A-65

Natura 2000 Management Plan A.6.2 HYDROLOGY MAP

page A-66 Epsilon-Adi

Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha

A.6.3 GEOLOGY MAP

Epsilon-Adi page A-67

Natura 2000 Management Plan A.6.4 CULTURAL HERITAGE MAP

page A-68 Epsilon-Adi

Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha

A.6.5 LAND USE MAP

Epsilon-Adi page A-69

Natura 2000 Management Plan A.6.6 HABITATS MAP

page A-70 Epsilon-Adi

Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha

A.6.7 SIGNAGE MAP

Epsilon-Adi page A-71

Natura 2000 Management Plan A.6.8 LAND OWNERSHIP MAP

page A-72 Epsilon-Adi

Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha

A.6.9 VISITOR ACCESS MAP

Epsilon-Adi page A-73

Natura 2000 Management Plan A.6.10 ACTIONS MAP

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Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha

ANNEX BIBLIOGRAPHY

Colombini, I., Fallaci, M., Milanesi, F., Scapini, F., & Chelazzi, L.(2003) Comparative diversity analysis in sandy littoral ecosystems of the western Mediterranean . Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 58 (Supplement), 93-104.

Council of Europe (1997) Drafting and implementing action plans for threatened species (Council of Europe publishing, Environmental Encounters No 39).

MEPA (2011) Dossier on Wild Fauna in the Maltese Islands: Capture, Killing and Exploitation. St Francis Ravelin: MEPA.

MEPA. (2013) Guidelines on managing plant invaders and restoring Native Plant Communities. St Francis Ravelin: MEPA.

Epsilon-Adi page A-75

Kemmuna u l-

Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha

This is the Kemmuna u l-Gżejjer ta’ Madwarha Management Plan that contains available information retrieved up to 2013 for the site. The Management Plan delivers details on site conservation and protection.

The Natura 2000 Management Planning for Malta and Gozo project is funded by the EAFRD and pioneered by MEPA. It is aimed to establish management plans and legal provisions for the management of all terrestrial Natura 2000 sites in the Maltese Islands and to increase awareness of Natura 2000 amongst the general public and stakeholders.

The project started in October 2012 and ended in March 2014. It is considered a milestone in the protection of Malta’s rural environment, as it undertakes necessary actions required in management planning for the 34 terrestrial Natura 2000 sites.

The project involved gathering information, carrying out surveys, defining conservation objectives and identifying management measures, with intensive stakeholder involvement. These management plans are not intended to restrain recreational or other economical activities within these sites, but rather to support the sustainable use of Malta’s natural resources with the involvement of stakeholders.