THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

E of nvi y ro tr n s m i e n

i n t

REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

Chisinau, 2010 CZU 57(478)(047) R 46

The Report was developed in the framework of the UNDP project “Support to Environmental Protection and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources” with the financial support from Global Environment Facility.

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is the largest public The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the funder of projects to improve the global environment. An in- UN’s global development network, advocating for change and dependent financial organization, the GEF provides grants for connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resour- projects related to biodiversity, climate change, international ces to help people build a better life. More information about waters, land degradation, the ozone layer, and persistent orga- UNDP at www.undp.org and www.undp.md. nic pollutants. More about GEF at www.theGEF.org.

Opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the official views of the United Nations Development Programme in Moldova or the Global Environment Facility.

This publication is available in Romanian and English on the webpage: http://bsapm.moldnet.md

Autors: dr. Alexandru Teleuta, dr. Andrei Munteanu, dr. hab. Gheorghe Postolache, dr. hab. Alexei Andreev.

Contributors: dr. hab. Ion Dediu, dr. hab. Maria Duca, dr. Eugen Alexandrov, dr. Iachim Gumaniuc, dr. Aliona Glijin, dr. Ştefan Manic, dr. Alecu Reniţă, dr. Valeriu Ţarigradschi, Alexandru Apostol, Valeriu Balan, Valentina Căldăruş, Mihai Coca, Alexandru Galupa, Veronica Josu, Alexandru Rotaru, Ala Rotaru, Ion Coţofană, Liliana Josan, Marcela Vatamaniuc, Nicu Vrednic.

Text processing Dr. Alexandru Teleuţă Cover & page layout Andrei Ichim

Descrierea CIP a Camerei Naţionale a Cărţii Republic of Moldova the Fourth National Report on Biological Diversity / aut.: Alexandru Teleuta, Andrei Munteanu, Gheorghe Postolache [et al.]; contributors: Ion Dediu, Maria Duca, Eugen Alexandrov [et al.]. – Ch. : „Bons Offices” SRL, 2010. – 68 p. 500 ex. ISBN 978-9975-80-352-6. 57(478)(047)

ISBN 978-9975-80-352-6 © Oficiul Biodiversitate al Ministerului Mediului Content

Introduction...... 3

Chapter I. General Description of Biological Diversity, Trends and Risk Factors...... 3

Chapter II. Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan...... 12

Chapter III. thematic inclusion on bioligical diversity at sectoral and intersectoral levels...... 24 3.1. Institutional Framework...... 24 3.2. Legal framework, strategies, programmes and their implementation in the sphere of conservation of biological diversity...... 28 3.3. Sector level...... 30 3.4. Conclusions and recommendations on integration of biological diversity issues at sectoral level...... 39

Chapter IV. rEsults of implementation of objectives stipulated for year 2010 and their inclusion in strategic plans of Convention...... 41

Table 1. Global goals and targets set for year 2010 and national relevant targets...... 43

Annex I. Country data and the details on the origin of present report...... 49

Annex II. Information regarding process of elaboration of present report...... 50

Annex III – Results of achievement of objectives in the context of Global Strategy for Plant Conservation...... 51

Annex IV – Activities implemented for fulfillment of goals and objectives of Working Programme on Protected areas, adopted by COP Decision VII/28...... 57

Bibliography ...... 68 Foreword

iodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources is currently one of the main problems of humankind. BRecent studies have shown that modern civilization is going through a stage which largely contributes to social, economic, and environmental disturbances.

In this context the main objectives of biodiversity conservation refer to sustainable use of natural resources and halting the loss of plant and animal species regardless of their importance to humans.

Biodiversity management is one of the priority assignments of the Ministry of Environment, promoted through the implementation of the National Strategy and National Action Plan in the domain of Biological Diversity Conservation and enforcement of legislation regarding Environmental Protection, Natural Areas Protected by the State, the Red Book, Ecological Network, Flora Register and others through the realization of the provisions established by international conventions and treaties, which declare the achievement of stability and ecological balance in preserving biodiversity as a priority requirement.

The Fourth National Report is dedicated to the evaluation of the implementation requirements of the National Strategy and Action Plan for the Conservation of Bio- logical Diversity.

The report reflects the priorities set by the Republic of Moldova in the respective area, the barriers encountered in implementing the Strategy, and in achieving the 2010 objectives regarding the protection of flora and fauna; research and monitoring programs, and conservation and sustainable use of biological resources in the country; the efforts of the Government of the Republic of Moldova in implementing the Global Strategy on Plant Conservation; the requirements of Moldovan legislation regarding the Fund for Natural Areas Protected by the State, Flora and Fauna, Forest Code, requirements of the Law on Riparian and Water body Buffer strips and Buffer zones, the Law on Environmental Protection, and others.

A comparative analysis was conducted on the requirements set by the Convention on Biological Diversity and the measures taken by the Republic of Moldova towards their achievement.

The Report is addressed to specialists in biology, ecology, law, environmental policies, researchers and students, and to the public interested in the domain.

Minister of Environment Gheorghe Salaru

4 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Foreword

oday, there is increased scientific evidence of the importance of healthy biodiversity for the survival of the planet and hu- Tmankind. The decline of biodiversity that has been happening with astounding speed in the past decades is further exacerbated by climate change. Situated at the intersection of three bio-geographic areas, Moldova plays an important role in the conservation of biological diversity in the region.

This Report emphasizes the importance of species’ preservation for sustainable development of the populations, and for providing a healthy habitat for flora and fauna kingdoms, which help sustain the national economy and provide livelihoods. More specifically, the Report examines the role of biodiversity in adaptation to climate change. It was developed in a participatory manner with broad en- gagement of national experts and civil society.

UNDP would like to take this opportunity to recognize the progress made since the Third Report was published in 2005. Still a lot remains to be done, and we are positive that this Report will be instrumental in planning the country’s work on biodiversity preservation. Reducing the rate of loss of biodiversity will ensure our planet’s capacity to supply humans with necessary goods and services, thus contributing to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.

The Fourth Biodiversity Report is also a great occasion to celebrate the International Year of Biodiversity proclaimed by the General Assembly for 2010. The Report will play a major role in raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity and about the significance of the Convention on Biological Diversity, ensuring its conservation, sustainable use and balanced dividends of its benefits. UNDP will continue to support the efforts of the Government of the Republic of Moldova in promoting implementation of the Convention and engaging all players and stakeholders, as conservation of biodiversity is a vital joint responsibility of the government, private sector, civil society, and general public.

Kaarina IMMONEN UNDP Resident Representative and UN Resident Coordinator

5 Forword Introduction

he intensification of the natural capital decline process has been occur- ring for the last few decades. The flora and fauna, which determine the stateT of biological diversity and comfort of life on Earth, are under continuous anthropogenic pressing. Given this situation, at the Rio de Janeiro Conference (Brazil) that took place June 3-14 1992, the United Nations (UN), by means of its environmental and development programs, developed and adopted five documents of major significance for the environmental protection and sustainable development: zzRio declaration on environment and development; zzAgenda 21 – program by the means of which the development can be so- cially, economically and environmentally viable; zzNon-Legally Binding Authoritative Statement of Principles for a Global Consensus on the Management, Conservation and Sustainable Develop- ment of All Types of Forests, also called Forest Principles; zzUN Framework Convention on Climate Change; zzConvention on Biological Diversity. These documents guide public and private institutions in solving problems of environmental protection and sustainable socio-economical development at national and international levels. The main objectives of the IVth National Report on Biodiversity Conserva- tion is to present a summary of information on the current status of flora and fauna and current status of implementation of Biological Diversity Conserva- tion National Strategy and Action Plan. In order to complete these tasks, information was gained on the following aspects: zzflora diversity of forest, steppe, meadow, aquatic, agricultural ecosystems and the trends and risk factors in these areas; zzfauna diversity in different natural and anthropologically created ecosystems; zzdangers that threaten the main components of biodiversity; zzimplementation efficiency of Biological Diversity Conservation National Strategy and Action Plan in the Republic of Moldova.

6 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Chapter I

General Description of Biological Diversity, Trends and Risk Factors

n order to implement the Convention on Bio- Within the forestry framework 28 types of logical Diversity, the Republic of Moldova has ecosystems are identified that include the follow- developedI the Biological Diversity Conservation ing main types of forests: oak forests, sessile oak National Strategy and Action Plan, which provides forests, pubescent oak forests, beech forests, parks, for biological diversity conservation at a variety and a large variety of acacia parks. of levels through activities improving policy, legal Forests are composed mainly of deciduous spe- and institutional framework, territorial planning, cies (97.8%), including cvercinee – 143.8 thousand research and monitoring, training and environ- ha (39.6%), ash parks – 16.6 thousand ha (4.6%), mental education. carpinets – 9.4 thousand ha (2.6%), acacia parka – Flora of the Republic of Moldova comprises 131.0 thousand ha (36.1%), poplars – 5.7 thousand 5513 plant species, among which 1989 superior ha (1.6%) etc., resins being present just in a 2.2% plant species and 3524inferior plant species. Ac- proportion. cording to floristic composition, the richest are the Flora composition of forestry ecosystems in- forest ecosystems, followed by steppe ecosystems. cludes more than 1000 species of spontaneous vas- The current area of forests and other types of cular plants. forest vegetation is insufficient to meet the needs Cvercinee are the most valuable arbors of the of maintaining the ecological balance of environ- forest fund. 27% of the total coverage originate ment. The gap between the current forest area of from the seed, the other 73% - from sprout. The about 11% and the optimal level of this indica- high percentage of the cvarcinee originated from tor (25-30%) explains the ecological imbalance sprout is one of the consequences of control over that the Republic of Moldova is facing. The con- their grove over several centuries. This distribution sequences of this are climate, hydrologic and geo- influences the productivity of cvarcinee, of which morphologic hazards (droughts, floods, landslides, 43%are inferior. erosion, etc.), which directly or indirectly cause Ecosystems of Quercus robur and Cerasus avi- the reduction of biological diversity, expressed in a um are widespread in Northern Moldova and have considerable decrease of areas of river formations, a surface of 11,600 ha. Flora composition of these including the species of poplars, willows etc. The ecosystems includes about 350 species of vascular essential decrease of forestry ecosystems in the riv- plants and are characterized by mono-dominant ers’ meadows caused not only essential reduction arbors of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) with a of biological diversity, but also the deficiency of high frequency of cherry (Cerasus avium). There are socio-economic sustainable development. about 10 rare species of plants within these ecosys- Forest ecosystems of the country encompass tems. Rososeni Forest (forestry haw Briceni) and deciduous forests formed out of 6 natural forestry forest line Mestecanis (forestry haw Ocnita) repre- formations; beech forests and mixed forests with sent the southern limit of the birch area. Currently, beech, sessile oak forests and mixed forests with these sectors are drying up and possibly may disap- sessile oaks; pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) for- pear due to the lack of their natural regeneration. ests and mixed forests with pedunculate oaks; for- The Gladiolus imbricatus shares the same fate, as it ests of pubescent oak, parks of white poplar, parks has disappeared from the forest and Rososeni and of willows and artificial ameliorative formations of is seen only in the Sireuti forest. woodsy cultures.

7 General Description of Biological Diversity, Trends and Risk Factors Chapter I Fig. 1. Zonele naturale şi regiunile landşaftice.

Ecosystems of sessile oak, pedunculate oak and all fundamental natural brushes to be taken under beech in the Central area of the republic have a protection. coverage of about 160, 300 ha. Flora diversity is Floristic diversity to a large extent determines richer than in the forests of the northern part of fauna diversity in forest ecosystems. Forests still the republic. Floristic composition has more than maintain a satisfactory environmental capacity for 1000 species of vascular plants. The richest floristic many animal species. There are about 172 species diversity is in the scientific reserve “Codrii” and in or 47.8% of the total number of terrestrial verte- the scientific reserve “Plaiul Fagului” - respectively brates of the republic in the forest ecosystems. about 945 and 720 species of vascular plants. There There are 47 species of mammals (64.4%), birds – are about 17 species of endangered and vulnerable 106 (37.9%), reptiles – 9 (64.3%) and amphibians plants in the forests of the central part of the coun- – 10 species. Forests from the southern part have a try that are registered with the Red Book of Moldo- reduced fauna diversity, in which there are no acvi- va: Dentaria glandulosa, Dentaria quinquefolia, las, Picus viridis, Dryocopus martius, Dendrocopos Lunaria annua, Lunaria rediviva, Euonymus nana, leucotos, Bubo bubo etc. Among reptiles Elaphe Coronilla elegans, Paeonia peregrina, Crataegus longissima, Vipera berus, Coronella austriaca, Rana pentagyna, Padus avium, Sorbus domestica, Dophne temporaria, Rana dalmatina, Bombina verigata are mesereum, Cephalanthera longifolia, Cephalanthera absent. rubra, Cypripedium calceolus, Epipactis purpurata, Forest ecosystems of Central Codrii, which are Orhis morio, Polystichum aculeatum. richer in floristic diversity than the northern part, Currently, a decrease is being seen in the sur- have even richer fauna diversity, due to the com- faces of fundamental natural brushes, in which the pact surfaces of the forests in the surroundings most of the rare, vulnerable and endangered plant of Straseni and Orhei. However, anthropogenic communities are recorded. In order to avoid the activity in the forest during the breeding period disappearance of endangered plants and the de- (harvesting of medicinal plants, mushrooms, for- crease of biological diversity, it is suggested that est cutting), are disturbing animals, just as the re- 8 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Fig. 2. Forestry vegetation of the Republic of Moldova. duction of forage (gopher, small rodents) continue glomerata, Helianhemum cannum, Sempervivum to negatively influence birds of day pray species as ruthenicum, Genista tetragona, Scutellaria supina, Aquila clanga, Aquila pomarina, Hieraaetus penna- Hepatica nobilis, Koeleria moldavica, Phylitis scolo- tus, Falco cherrug etc. Some of them do not have pendrium, Gymnocarpium robertianum. Koeleria their eyrie anymore in these areas. moldavica can be registered as an endemic part of Ecosystems of Quercus pubescens and Quercus Moldovan flora. That is why the communities of pedunculiflora of the southern region have a cov- this species within the protected areas of Tipova, erage of about 7,000 ha. Floristic composition en- Saharna and others need an increased level of pro- compasses over 400 vascular plant species. Within tection. these ecosystems species including Centaurea an- Parks formed of willows, poplars and peduncu- gelescui, Gymnnospermium odessanum, Pulsatilla late oaks from the valleys of rivers Prut and Nis- grandis, Pyrus elaegrifolia, and Chrisopogon gryllus tru have a coverage of 15 thousands ha, being 4.7% were recorded in the Red book of Moldova. The of the total surface of forests. Floristic diversity of number of gymnosperm is very low within the these parks encompasses about 400 species of vas- protected area Misilindra, as well as the number cular plants, including 6 species of endangered and of Pyrus elaeagrifolia in the protected area Harbo- vulnerable plants, such as: Alnus glutinosa, Alnus vat. Urgent measures will be undertaken to protect incana, Vitis sylvestris, Fritilaria melagroides, Fran- these two plant communities. gula alnus, Ophioglosum vulgatum. The number of Forest ecosystems and grassy axonal ecosystems the plant species of Ophioglossum vulgatum L. lo- were formed on limestone slopes of the Nistru and cated within acacia brushes in the scientific reserve Prut rivers and their tributaries. These ecosystems’ “Padurea Domneasca” require a more efficient de- coverage is about 23,000 ha. Ten species were dis- gree of protection. covered here and included in the Red Book of Under origin criteria, there are three main cat- Moldova, such as Schiverechia podolica, Gypsophila egories of arbors in the country’s forests: funda- 9 General Description of Biological Diversity, Trends and Risk Factors Chapter I mental natural arbors, derivative arbors and arti- birds, the number of mammals (gophers, hamsters, ficial arbors. mice, lemmings, predatory birds) will increase, Fundamental natural arbors are characterized as well as reptiles (lizards, snakes), insects, etc. in by the richest floristic diversity and by the pres- these areas. ence of numerous rare, endangered and vulnerable In the past, steppe communities occupied about plants. Derivative arbors have a reduced floristic 2/3 of the Moldovan territory. Currently natural diversity compared to the fundamental natural ar- steppe communities have been preserved only in bors. Artificial arbors have even less plant species small and isolated areas. The Red Book of Moldova than the other two arbors. includes 126 species, 40 of which are steppe spe- The general trend for these arbors’ types is the cies. Even the basic steppe species have beome decrease of fundamental natural arbors’ cover- rare (Stipa L.), and the main species of the relict age and increase of the artificial arbors’ surface by subtropical steppes, Chrysopogon gryllus Trin is in- means of planting acacias and through the man- cluded in the Red Book. Among the vulnerable and agement of technologies for restoration of forest endangered species are: Crambe tataria, Rindera from the category of fundamental natural arbors umbellata, Stipa, Eremogone cephalotes, Eremogone that were exploited. This trend leads to the replace- rigida, Paronichia cephalotes, Astragalus dasyantus, ment of fundamental natural arbors with artificial Sternbergia colchiciflora, Bellevalia sarmatica, Col- ones, and as consequence it reduced the forest eco- chicum fominii, Ephedra distachya. systems’ biodiversity, sustainability and capacity to The status of flora diversity of steppe ecosys- offer ecosystem services. tems is unsatisfactory throughout the republic due Out of the total coverage of forests of 362.7 to excessive and unorganized grazing and the re- thousands ha, only 33.4 thousand ha (9.2%) are duction of lands with steppe vegetation. Surfaces publicly owned by the state and local public au- with feather grass and other valuable steppe spe- thorities (city halls). At the same time, Moldova has cies have disappeared. 49.3 thousands ha of forest vegetation outside the In the protected area Ciumai, where 422 species forest system. of vascular plants have been identified, undesirable According to the Biological Diversity Conserva- succession is taking place, replacing the fescue with tion National Strategy and Action Plan and Strat- rhizome poas in vegetal coating: Poa angustifolia, egy on Sustainable Development of the Forest Sec- Elytrigia repens, Bromopsis riparia etc. In the gills, tor which aims to assure a constant environmental the extension of bushes by is stifling steppe vegeta- balance and creation of certain environmental cor- tion. ridors of interconnection among forests for a free Two main means of protection of rare steppe communication and protection of plants and ani- plants are offered: preservation of spreading areas mals, forest vegetation will be planted in the future and/or settle them in the area where they disap- on about 130 thousand ha of land. peared. Forestation of degraded lands shall be per- Meadow ecosystems, also called meadow formed in accordance with Law on Forestation steppes, formed of species of hydrophore feather of Degraded Land nr. 1041-XIV of 15 June 2000. Stipa pennata, Stipa trisa, Stipa pulcherrima and Until now, “Moldsilva” agency has planted about 60 Festuca valesiaca, with a large number of herbs thousand ha, however the success of planting areas with flowers are the most characteristic to small designated for forestation with different tree spe- glades. The flooded meadows and meadows of hills cies is small. have been largely degraded due to excessive graz- Effective management of newly forested land ing. will allow an increase in the number of species of Fauna of steppe and meadow ecosystems en- animals and their herds, including birds such as: compasses about 98 species of vertebrate terrestri- Perdix perdix, Coturnix coturnix, Alauda arvensis, al animals. During the 20th century, the following Galerida cristata, Phasionus colchicus, Melanocory- vertebrate terrestrial animal species disappeared pha calandra, Anthus campestris, Oenanthe ocnan- Aquila rapax, Tetrax tetrax, Anthropoides virgo, the, Saxicola rubetra, Saxicola torquata, Miliaria Otis tarda, Glareola pratincola, and Circus macrou- calandra, Emberiza hortulana, Motacilla flava, etc. rus stopped nestling. Crex crex, Porzana porzana, With the growth of tillers and vegetation succes- Perzana pursilla, Porzana parva and some other sion species that nestle in bushes will appear. Con- species of limicols are in a quite difficult situation. currently with the appearance of a large number of Among mammals of steppe ecosystems Socista 10 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY fl. N is tr u

Bălţi

r . P r u t

Stepe propriu-zise cu Festuca valesiaca, Stipa capillata, S. lessingiana, S. pulcherima ş.a.

Stepe subdeşertice cu Bothriochloa ischaemum. Artemisia austriaca, Teucrium polium ş.a. Chişinău Vegetaţia de luncă inundabilă cu Lolium perenne, Agrostis stolonifera, Carex sp ş.a.

Vegetaţie halofilă cu Cynodon dactilon. Puccinellia distans, Juncus gerardii, Salicornia europaea ş.a.

Vegetaţie petrofită

Cahul

fl. Dunărea Fig.3. vegetaţia stepelor şi luncilor Republicii Moldova subtilis; Spermaphilus citellus have disappeared and The presence of isolated areas populated by rare Mustela eversmanni became vulnerable and endan- and endangered species of animals is an obstacle gered. Among the steppe reptiles are emphasized to their communication and spread, thus causing Coluber jugularis, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Vipera the decrease of their herd. Therefore, in order to ursini, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Eremias argu- solve the issue of biodiversity conservation, it was ta, Lacerta taurica. The majority live in the south- proposed to create a national ecological network ern steppes and their status depends on the vegetal that would merge the nucleus areas populated by cover and food sources – rodents, insects, lizards. vulnerable species of animals and plants. Some species such as four-striped snake and multi- Floristic diversity of petrophyte ecosystems was color lizard are represented only by a single popu- formed on lime slopes of the Prut and Nistru and lation with a small number, and steppe vipers has their tributaries. The surface of these ecosystems is not been seen in recent years. about 23,000 ha. It is proposed that areas of endangered reptile The tree area is dominated by Quercus robur species with low mobility be included in the area and Quercus petraea. Forests of oak were formed protected by the state. at the bottom of the slopes. In these places grow Among the rare species of steppe insects are: plentifully Carpinus betulus. One can also find Mantis religiosa, Saga pedo, Iphiclides podalirius, Tilia cordata, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer platanoides, Scolia maculata, Scolia hirta. Besides these species Acer campestre, etc. In the bushes Cornus mas more Callimorpha quadripunctaria, Saturnia pyri, and often dominates. In forests and areas with forest Zerinthia polyxena, Xylocopa valga, Lucanus cervus and grass vegetation rare plant species included in are found in steppes. All species are included in the the Red Book were identified on rocky substrates: Red Book of Moldova and Ukraine. Schiverechia podolica, Gypsophila glomerata, Heli- 11 General Description of Biological Diversity, Trends and Risk Factors Chapter I anhemum cannum, Sempervivum ruthenicum, tans disappeared and the number of communities Genista tetragona, Scutellaria supina, Hepatica no- of Salvinia natans considerably decreased; and in bilis, Koeleria moldavica, Phylitis scolopendrium, the protected area Livada Turceasca Trapa natans Gymnocarpium robertianum. disappeared. At the same time an insignificant in- In order to conserve biodiversity of forest and crease of the number of communities of corns was grassy ecosystems on rocky substrates, 28 protected identified in the scientific reserve “Prutul de Jos.” areas were established with a total area of 8870 ha, Negative changes were identified in the lake which constitutes 38% of these ecosystems. To en- Cuciurgan that led to the excessive accumulation sure an effective preservation of forest ecosystems of organic mass. on rocky substrates, it is necessary to create a new A relatively low diversity of aquatic fauna was petrophyte area with this type of vegetation. preserved in pools of the lower Prut and Nistru, There are 38 species of terrestrial vertebrate but it decreased significantly compared with the animals living on the rocks, mainly mammals and past (40-50 years ago). Some pools were dried, the birds. Here, endangered and vulnerable species others such as the complex of lakes “Manta” – were find their refuge, such as Spermophilus citellus, Ne- water-logged and lost their vegetation and floating ophron percnopterus, Falco peregrinus, Bubo bubo, islands, on which many birds species were resting Columba oenas, Elaphe longissima, Coluber jugu- and nesting. Lake Beleu within the scientific reserve laris), Coronella austriaca. The number of snakes “the Lower Prut” is polluted, and is under the an- was identified that as being in a period of slight thropogenic influence caused by oil extraction. The increase. riverbed of the blind Nistru of the Nistru meadow Some common vertebrate animals are living on has been completely degraded and does not func- the rocks, like Martes foina, Phoenicurus ochruros, tion anymore as an aquatic ecosystem where some Columbia livia, Monticola saxatilis, Oenante oe- animals species were living and breeding. A major nante, etc. hazard for aquatic and paludous fauna was caused Aquatic and paludous ecosystems have a surface by the floods that occurred in the summer of 2008, of 95,000 ha and present quite various forms. Some after which breeding sites of many species of ani- of their components originated in the sub-aquatic mals were destroyed. soil, the other is not linked with the soil land and A relatively large number of bird species in can migrate, with the last category divided into aquatic ecosystems is determined by the migration. sub-aquatic and natant. In recent years the number of species of nesting Sub-aquatic vegetation without roots has over aquatic and fenny birds, as well as their individ- 15 species of vascular plants, among which Cerato- ual populations, was considerably reduced due to phyllum demersum and Ceratophyllum submersum droughts and degraded emeritus vegetation Phrag- form considerable brushwood. Floating vegetation mites australis, Typha ssp., and Typha minima of includes 10 species of vascular plants of 5 genes coastal lakes and ponds. The large number of do- and 5 families. mestic cattle, being deprived of food on grasslands Rooted aquatic vegetation is represented by are forced to use reeds at the fragile area growing at submerse, natant and emeritus aquatic species. the edge of swamps, thus destroying the habitats of Submerged vegetation is dominated by different many species of fenny birds - Gallinula chloropus, species of pond weed: Potamogeton pectinatus, Fulica atra, Acrocephalus arundinaceus, reptiles, Potamogeton perfoliatus. Hydro-air rooted vegeta- amphibians etc. tion includes 22 species of 11 genes and 7 families. Agricultural ecosystems form 1951.8 thousand The floristic core is formed of Nymphoides peltata, ha and create optimal conditions for life for about Nymphaea alba and Trapa natans. 109 species of terrestrial vertebrates. Species that Emerso-hydro-air vegetation includes 24 spe- have adapted to the agrocenocis conditions have a cies of vascular plants. Dominant species are large ecological capacity and may become sinan- Phragmites australis and Typha angustifolia. tropic. In agrocenocis small rodents predominate Rare plant species that are included in the Red - Mus spicilegus, Mus musculus, Microtus arvalis, Book of Moldova are living in aquatic and palu- Apodemus sylvaticus etc., that have favorable food dous ecosystems: Nymphaea alba, Trapa natans, and shelter conditions, Vulpes vulpes, Lepus euro- Salvinia natans. paeus, Talpa europaea, Erinaceus europaeus, Galer- According to the research data of Lake Cuciur- ida cristata, Alauda arvensis, Coturnix coturnix, gan, communities of Nymphaea alba and Trapa na- Perdix perdix, Emberiza calandra. Some species of 12 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY surface ducks nestle in crops of alfalfa and others sand ha of tobacco. In this year 989 thousand tons (Crex crex) forage crops in the river meadows. Dur- of sugar beet were harvested, 336 thousand tons of ing the dry years, when grass vegetation is poorly sunflower and 6 thousand tons of tobacco. The av- developed, species of rodents that feed with succu- erage production was 289 q/ha of sugar beet, 12 q/ lent vegetation stop their reproduction process. ha sunflower and 13 q/ha tobacco. Currently in Moldova about 1033 thousand ha Several types of vegetation in the urban areas of area of land are occupied by cereal crops. The larg- Moldova were underlined: forest, steppe, praticol, est areas occupy ecosystems of wheat and maize. aquatic and paludous. The largest areas are occu- In 2005 2828.1 thousand tons of cereals were har- pied by parks-forests, reaching 21,789 ha and 1179 vested. Average production of a hectare was 27.4 q km of paths. Assortment of trees and shrubs do not / ha. Cereal ecosystems were affected by drought comply with the stationary conditions, which is in the summer of 2007. Another impact of smaller why in many places the effect of the environmental proportions, but which takes place annually, is the sanitation is low. In Chisinau 220 species and 55 burning of stubble, which strongly affects flora, varieties of deciduous or resins were revealed, as fauna and microorganisms from the layer of fertile well as 168 species of which are trees, 97 species soil. of shrubs and 10 species of lianas. The main nega- Currently in Moldova there are about 103 thou- tive impacts on forest plantations are caused by il- sand ha of orchards. The largest areas are filled licit cutting and the reduction of green spaces for with apple plantations. Overall productivity of construction purposes. In many forest plantations fruits form orchards was about 383 thousand tons. in Chisinau, Balti, and other communities the re- Average yield of productive orchards is 45.5 q / ha. placement of native species with the invasive ones In the last 15 years many orchards have not been is taking place. maintained well and consequently, are in decline. As a result of the degrading of natural ecosys- Cases were recorded in which American maple tems, urban ecosystems are becoming more im- and other invading species appeared among the portant for the animals’ protection. Many species apple orchards and reduced the crop. In respect to of terrestrial vertebrate animals have adapted or conservation of biodiversity, local sorts of apple, are passing through sinantropisation stages in the pear, etc must be preserved. Orchard ecosystems localities. During recent decades, besides the usual in Soroca and Soldanesti districts were affected by species we’re used to seeing in towns and villages, hoar-frost in November 2000. Streptopelia decaocto, Dendrocopos syriacus, Phoen- In Moldova vineyards occupy about 140 thou- icurus ochruros, Garrulus glandarius, Martes martes sand ha. Global production of grapes is about 517 etc have appeared. thousand tons. The average production of grape vines is about 36 q/ha. In the last 15 years many Climate change impact upon the components vineyards have not been cared for, and as a result of flora and fauna they are in decline. Between the lines of vine a lot Climate change is a global issue that threatens of herbs have appeared. For the sake of conserva- natural, social, and economic systems since they tion of biodiversity, local sorts of vine must be pre- are vulnerable to climate factors. served. Under the current climate conditions, about 512 Currently about 79 thousand ha in Moldova are endangered plant species in the Republic of Moldo- occupied by vegetable crops (36 ha of vegetables va are within the risk zone, representing 27.4 % of and 36 ha of potatoes). In 2005, 384 thousand tons their total number. Out of all species of vascular of vegetables and 378 thousand h of potatoes were plants that are in the risk zone, the most depend- harvested. Average yield for a hectare of vegetables ent on the current climate and weather conditions was 104.3 q / ha, and for a hectare of potato - 105 are the plants from forest ecosystems – 126 species, q / ha. steppe – 151, and rocky ecosystems – 68 species. In Moldova, 67 thousand ha are currently oc- Climate change has a direct and an indirect cupied by forage crops. In many places, the for- impact upon the animals. The direct influence is age ecosystems, especially lucerne, have degraded less pronounced, because animals, unlike plants, while left untilled. The surface occupied by tech- can adapt to some changes with behavioral and nical plants is about 355 thousand ha. In 2005 34 eco-physiologic mechanisms. The animal world thousands ha of sugar beet were planted, along is and will continue to be influenced indirectly by with 275 thousand ha of sunflower, and 4.7 thou- the degradation of plant associations, shortages of 13 General Description of Biological Diversity, Trends and Risk Factors Chapter I food, water, and breeding sites. The species of en- conditions are: Anemonoides nemorosa (L.) Holub., dangered, vulnerable and rare categories, which are Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth., Carex brizoides L., at their limit of minimal reproductive number, are Cephalanthera damasonicum (Mill.) Druce.and C. in a more difficult situation now. Taking into ac- longifolia (L.) Fritch), Dentaria glandulosa Waldst et count the fact that within animal populations there Kit., Doronicum hungaricum Reichenbach. fil., Epi- are some with a greater ecological adaptation, we pactis purpurata Smith., Eonymus nana L., Galan- might admit that common species will have time thus nivalis L., G. plicatus Bieb., Galium boreale L., to adjust themselves to new living conditions. the Hepatica nobilis Mill., Lunaria annua L., Luzula species of birds from Corvidae family may serve as annua L., L. pallescens Sw.,Ornithogalum flavescens an example - Corvus frugilegus, Corvus corone cor- Lam., Polipodium vulgare L., Rhamnus tinctoria nix, Corvus corax, Pica pica, Corvus monedula and Waldst. et Kit., Scopolia carniolica Jacq., Coronilla Garrulus glandarius, Columbidae - Streptopelia de- elegans Panc, Silene multiflora (Ehrh.) Pers., Viola caocto, Columba palumbus, Streptopelia turtur etc. palustris L., V. persicifolia Schreb.. Some species of animals, like Streptopelia decaocto, Change of environmental conditions under the Fringilla coelebs, Phoenicurus ochruros, Columba frequent fluctuation of water current, degradation palumbus, Martes foina, Erinaceus europaeus, Dry- of trophy basis and malfunctioning of thermo re- omys nitedula, etc., are adapting themselves to the gime led to the decrease of productivity, and deg- urban environment, and thus are less affected by radation of reophile species’ reproductive system: the environmental changes. Acipenser ruthemes, Vimba vimba vimba, Barbu As it was mentioned above, the current situation barbus, Aspius aspius, and to the self-adjustment of of the animal world and vegetation in the country psyhoprofile species (animal species living at low is quite a difficult one due to the decreased func- temperatures), Cottus gobio, Pungitus platigaster, tional capacity of natural ecosystems. Most of the Leuciscus leuciscus, Gasterosteus aculeatus, which natural ecosystems are degraded and fragmented. are increasing their number and the coverage area. Degradation of natural ecosystems and plant and The dryness of steppes will further cause the animal communities is determined mainly by the decrease of the number of plant and animal spe- anthropogenic factor which overlaps with the defi- cies characteristic to this area, as well as other eco- cit of humidity on most of the territory of the re- systems. Steppe vegetation is present in all climatic public. In river basins there is intensification of the zones in the Republic of Moldova. In the Northern eutrophication process of water, and in the steppe part (Balti field) and in the southern part (Bugiac and meadow ecosystems the process of xerophyiti- steppe) the formations of the following herbs will sation and the replacement of plant species charac- be extended: Stipa capillata, S. pinnata, S. tirsa, teristic to these ecosystems with ruderal plants can S.ucrainica, Festuca valesiaca. These plant forma- be seen. Following the disappearance of species of tions are highly influenced by the anthropogenic bulb plants (Poa), the number of Spermophilus factor (excessive grazing and plowing), as well as citellus and other small rodents is reducing. Taking dryness. The introduction of a protection regime into account that they are the main source of food for meadows is necessary to restore its floristic and for many species of terrestrial vertebrates, such as: plants components, i.e. a real meadow. Xerophile Mustela eversmanni, Mustela erminea, acvilas, pi- meadows (steppes) of the Republic of Moldova geon, hawk, etc., there is a fear of further endangered are strongly connected with current climate and and the risk of disappearance. Clearing of trees at by stopping the massive anthropogenic influence, the rivers’ banks led to the increased level of water there still might be a chance to extend meadows in evaporation and the decrease of environmental ca- a short time on large surfaces, including raw agri- pacity of aqua basins to maintain the rich diversity cultural lands. A drier and warmer climate is favo- of aquatic animals. rable for extending coverage of large numbers of Mezofile forests of the Central Moldovan Plateau endangered species from steppe ecosystems. and the Northern Moldovan Plateau are in semi- Plant species of steppe and meadow ecosys- humid climate conditions where the hydrothermic tems that are vulnerable to climate changes are: coefficient is about 0.65. Forest vegetation can be Astragalus ponticus Pallas, Sternbergia colchiciflora found independent of altitude (oak parks are cov- Waldst. et Kit. Belevalia sarmatica Woronow, Orni- ering the territories up to 200 m, Quercus petraea thogalum amphibolum Zahar, Colchicum fominii parks - 300 m and fagus parks - 350-400 m). Spe- Bordz, Colchicum triphyllum G. Kunze, Pulsatilla cies of forest plants vulnerable to current climate nigricans, Adonis vernalis L., Acorus calamus L., 14 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Allium angulosum L., Angelica archangelica L., As- fauna on a relatively small surface. It shall be noted paragus polyphyllus Stev., Asparagus pseudoscaber that as natural ecosystems, as well as a lot animal Grea., Beckmonia erucifornis (L.) Host., Bellis per- species are at their limit, where living conditions ennis L., Briza media L., Caltha palustris L., Carex are extreme. These conditions increase the vulner- paniculata L.), Cerastium perfoliatum L., Chame- ability of biological resources, the trends of their rion dodonaei (Vill) Holub, Equisetum fluviatile structural and functional changes. Due to the dom- L., Eriophorum latifolium Hoppe, Fritillaria melea- inance of southern and south-eastern elements of groides Patrin. ex Schult. et Schult. fil., Gentianop- flora, the number of forms and species of the re- sis ciliata L., Gladiolus imbricatus L., Gypsophila spective kind will increase. Still, according to the elegans Bieb.), Gypsophila perfoliata L., Hesperis opinion of experts, successions in the respective suaveolens (Andrz.) Steud, Hippuris vulgaris L., ecosystems and biocenosis shall be done in more Hypericum tetrapterum Fries, Leucojum aestivum slowly over the coming centuries. Many animal L., Ophioglossum vulgatum L., Ornithogalum fla- species have a high capacity to accommodate to vescens Lam., Petasites hybridus (L.) Gaerth., Mey new living conditions. For example, rodents’ prefer- et Scherb., Petasites spurius (Retz.) Reichb., Platan- ences towards temperatures vary significantly from thera chlorantha (Cust.) Reichb., Salvia pratensis one season to another and geographic zones. Pref- L., Scorzonera purpurea L., Scrophularia umbrosa erable temperature during the winter for Microtus Dum., Serratula caput-najae Zahar., Serratula lyco- arvalis is 17-18˚C, during the spring 24-28˚C and pifolia (Will.) A.Kerner, Serratula wolffii Andreae, summer - 30-32˚C. Animals, unlike plants, due to Seseli libanotis (L.) Koch, Telekia speciola (Schreb.) their mobility, disperse and migrate to more favo- Baumg., Thelypteris palustris Schott, Typha laxman- rable areas. An obvious example is the migration nii Lepech, Valeriana officinalis L. of birds, bats, and butterflies, based on the status of The prey birds that are living in forest ecosys- ecosystems and conditions of the environment. tems (acvila, pigeon hawk) and aquatic ecosystems (Circus aeruginosus) feed on rodents (gopher, The danger of invasive species. An obvious in- microtine, mice) of steppe ecosystems and in the crease of the anthropogenic element in Moldovan absence of such sources they become vulnerable flora caused essential changes in the structure of species doomed to extinction. In the future out vegetal cover. The invasion of sinatrope species of species of animals, especially insects and other into degraded natural ecosystems hampers the res- local invertebrates, as well as foreign species, new toration processes of natural biocenosis and affects depredators will appear, causing considerable crop their capacity to function. damage and affecting food security. Sinotrope flora is made out of three main In Moldova there are animal species of differ- groups: ruderal, segetal and adventive, the specific ent zoo-geographical origins. In ornitofauna, the diversity of which encompasses about 460 species predominant species are those of trans-arctic-pole and forms 43 communities of the classes Festuceta, and west-arctic-pole. European elements prevails Brometa, Secalineta şi Chenopodieta. Weeds of ag- in teriofauna, followed by those of arctic-pole. Spe- gressive character include about 114 species, out cies of European and Ponto-Caspian origin domi- of which 11 are identified as being the quarantine nate in serpentofauna. As a result of climate change plants. Representatives of these species mainly af- and the trend of expansion of the drying process, fect natural ecosystems of degraded meadows and different structural changes in ecosystems are tak- agricultural ecosystems. American maple Acer ne- ing place, particularly in the forest. Consequently gundo represents a significant danger for the forest the area of animal species of European origin is ecosystems. reducing, and the coverage of south-eastern spe- Main adventive species include the following: cies will widen. A gradual diminishing is noticed in Acer negundo, Amaranthus albus, A. blitoides, A. the populations of animal species of whose eastern crispus, A. cruentus, A. deflexus, A. hybridus, A. hy- limit of the area is passing through the territory pohondriacus, A. lividus, A. retoflexus, A. powellii, between the Nistru and Prut: Spermophilus citel- A. spinosus, Asclepias syriaca, Ambrasia artemiisi- lus, Felis silvestris, Vipera ursini, Elaphe longissima, folia, A. trifida, Artemisia annua, A. argyi, A. dra- Elaphe quatuorlineata, etc. cunculus, A. siewersiana, A. toutrneforiana, Aster The location of the republic in a region of bio- salignus, Brachyactis ciliata, Calendula officinalis, geographic interference created a rich biological Centaurea iberica, Chamomilla suaveolens, Cycla- diversity including the presence of three types of chaena xanthifolia, Erigeron annus, E. Canadensis, 15 General Description of Biological Diversity, Trends and Risk Factors Chapter I Evaluarea stării ecologice Scara 1:4,000,000 gronovii, Euphorbia dentata, E. humifusa, Elodea canadensis, Valisneria spiralis, Dracocephalum moldavica, Abutilon thophrasti, Malva crispa, M. Soroca moschata, Sida spinosa, Oxybaphus nyctagineus, Orobanche cumana, O. Ramosa, Peganum harmala, Bălţi Phytolaca americana, Apera interrupta, Avena steri- lis, Cenchrus pauciflorus, Echinochloa frumentacea, Râbniţa Horedeum jubatum, Lolium temulentum, Panicum capillare, P. milliaceum, Phlaris canariensis, Setaria Orhei Ungheni decipiens, S. italica, S. pycnocoma, Sorghum ha- Dubăsari lepense, Fagopyrum tataricum, Adonis annua, Dat- ura stramonim, Hyoscyamus albus, H. niger, Lycium CHişinău barbatum, Physalis ixocarpa, Solanum cornutum, S. Convenţional Tiraspol favorabilă Bender luteum, Zygophyllum fabago. Irresponsible use of natural ecosystems caused Satisfăcătoare their fragmentation, a considerable reduction of Tensionată the number of animals, and even the disappearance of certain species. In the absence of competition Critică Cahul and the presence of free ecological niches, there is a premise for the emergence of foreign species that due to their increasing number can become invasive. Among local animal species which are inva- Fig. 4. Evaluarea stării ecologice a Republicii Moldova sive are: Microtus arvalis, Rettus norvegicus, Mus musculus, several dozen species of insects, which Galinsoga ciliata, G. Parviflora, Grindelia squarro- are major pests to crops and forestry, and invasive ra, Helianthus annus, H. Decapetatus, H. tuberosus, alohtone species are: Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Rudbeckia hirta, R. Lacinita, Solidago canadensis, Hyphantria cunea, Ceratitis capilata, Quadraspidi- Xanthum albinum, X. brasilicum. X. califonicum, otus perniciosus etc. About 150 species of invasive X. rupicola, X. spinosum, X. strumarium, Impatiens animals are living in the republic, among which parvifflora, Armoracia rusticana, Brasica juncea, B. about 130 species are damaging crops, and 15 spe- Napus, Cardaria draba, Diplotaxis viminea, Eru- cies – damaging forests. It was found that annual castrum armoracioides, Lepidium sativum, Sinapis losses in agriculture are from 5 to 10% of cereal alba, Cannabis ruderalis, Atriplex calotheca, A. crops, 15.2% in weeding plants and 25% of multi- hortensis, Chenopodium ambrosoides, Kochia sco- cultures. paria, Camelina communis, Ipomaea hederacea, Ecballium elaterium, Echinocystis lobata, Sicyos angulatus, Cuscuta campestris, C. gymnocarpa, C.

The main factors affecting biological diversity in Republic of Moldova are the following: zzinfringements of environmental legal provisions by legal entities and individuals; zzlack of or ineffective implementation of measures preventing the degrading of biological diversity; zzinsufficient economic incentive for achieving the Convention on the conservation of biological diversity; zzunsatisfactory integration of requirements of biological diversity conservation in economic and sector policy; zzinsufficient use of scientific results and conventions in the process of biological diversity conservation; zzhigh degree of agricultural use of the country’s territory, and as a consequence, disturbance of ecological balance of landscapes; zzpollution of natural habitats; intense exploitation of vegetal and animal resources; zzsignificant reduction in budgetary allocations for the reproduction and regeneration of flora and fauna; zzunsatisfactory level of general populous’ environmental knowledge. 16 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Chapter II

Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan

s a result of the assessment of the current zzidentified operating possibilities guaranteed by situation and of the trends characteristic to the national legislation and international con- MoldovanA biodiversity, the following priorities are ventions (those ratified and not ratified by the identified: Republic of Moldova); zzstrengthening structures and procedures neces- zzidentified overlaps, contradictions and gaps sary for evaluating the impact upon biodiversity, within the policy and sector legislation of the including in the trans-boundary context; country; zzelaboration of the relevant legislation; zzhighlighted the policies and legal provisions zzfurther improvement of communication strate- through which a significant impact (positive or gies on the policy benefits in the area of biologi- negative) is caused on biodiversity; cal diversity conservation and environmental zzestablished national priorities towards the im- education, offering support to civil society and provement of legislation and normative acts; local public authorities. zzdeveloped a set of measures on the improve- The strategy (BDNCNSAP) provides for realiza- ment of national legislation in the biological tion of 263 initiatives. Main executors are: Ministry conservation area; of Environment and Natural Resources, Academy zzidentified a range of international conventions of Science of Moldova, Ministry of Agriculture and and international treaties offered for being rati- Food Industry, Ministry of Education and Sport, fied; Forestry Agency “Moldsilva.” zzpublished the Red Book of Moldova (second edi- In order to perform the tasks provided by tion, 2002), a series of 4 volumes “Vegetal world BDNCNSAP, central public authorities, local pub- of Moldova” (“Lumea vegetală a Moldovei”) and lic authorities and other involved institutions have 4 volumes of “Animal world of Moldova” (“Lu- completed certain initiatives during the reporting mea animală a Moldovei”), and a set of works period, according to the directions and priorities: on the use of economic tools and mechanisms zzimprovement of policy, legislation and institu- in the conservation of biological diversity; tional framework; zzcompleted new laws regarding the legislative zzterritorial planning, programs of biodiversity and normative framework on biodiversity con- conservation; servation. zzresearch and monitoring; It is worth mentioning that the institutional and zzenvironmental training and education of people legislative basis for development of cooperation and other educational activities. at national, regional and global levels is sufficient at this moment in time. The Republic of Moldo- General Action Plan on biodiversity con- va joined the main conventions and international servation treaties that provide for biodiversity conservation. Taking into account that continuous develop- The first, the second and the third National re- ment of legislative framework is the main prereq- port of Republic of Moldova on conservation of uisite and a priority direction, during the imple- biological diversity were developed and approved mentation of the plan’s initiatives, the following by the Ministry of Environment, Construction and were completed: 17 Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan Chapter II Territory Development, and sent to the Secretariat Biologic resources of the Republic of Moldova of Convention on Biological Diversity. are limited as a source of economic, environmen- In the 3rd National report the actions under- tal and social benefit. Due to the increased level of taken by Republic of Moldova are reflected aiming vulnerability of biodiversity caused by natural and at implementation of the Convention’s and Strategy’s anthropogenic factors, there is a big difference be- goals for 2010. tween the genetic potential and utilization potential of biodiversity. Initiatives undertaken at that point were as In 2001-2008 the following reports were pre- follows: pared: 1. The protection of 18.8% of the total surface zzThematic Report on invasive species; of forest ecosystems, of 0.40% of steppe and zzThematic report on forest ecosystems; meadow ecosystems, and 2.1% of aquatic and zzReport on revealing the representative sectors paludous ecosystems was insured. of meadows to be taken under state protection; zzReport on the development of basic elements Note: Steppe, meadows, aquatic and paludous for extending the protected areas network and ecosystems are not effectively protected and improving management tools according to the consequently, their biodiversity is in a con- dangers that threaten biodiversity and objec- tinuously degrading state. tives of National Strategy, as well as the provisions of the Convention on biological diversity; 2. Information sources were identified, assessed zzReport on the improvement of legal framework and evaluated with the aim to underline the and institutional infrastructure related to bio- priority level, promoted measures, types of un- diversity conservation and sustainable use of dertaken activities and allocated resources for natural resources; implementation of the provisions of the Con- zzReport on the evaluation of the capacity of non- vention on biological diversity (CDB) starting governmental organizations (NGOs) to work form the first Report. in the domain agro-biodiversity conservation 3. The “List of criteria and indicators of sustain- and identification of development necessities of able management” for forest ecosystems was their capabilities; developed and approved (Decision of the Gov- zzReport on the preparation of proposals for im- ernment of republic of Moldova nr. 618 dated proving the institutional framework in the area 04.06.2007). of biodiversity conservation; 4. The necessity of extending the network of natu- zzReport on the design of the database structure ral protected areas was assessed and the set of and monitoring system of biodiversity, identi- measures necessary for the institutional devel- fying the sources and existing facilities, as well opment and improvement was developed, as as development needs in perspective; well as the management capacity in the sector zzReport on the development of mechanisms and of management of natural areas protected. means for stimulating the practices of sustain- 5. At the beginning, there are initiatives related to able use of renewable natural resources in the implementation of the ecosystem approach to economic and social transition circumstances the activities of biodiversity conservation. specific to Moldova; As a result of extension, the system of the natu- zzReport on the assessment and mitigation meas- ral areas protected by the state achieved the surface ures of the impact on forest biodiversity com- of 157,227.4 ha or 4.65% (in 2001 it was 66,476.7 ponents. ha or 1.96%) of the country’s surface, thus by far exceeding the percentage (2.4%) provided by Mil- lennium Development Goals in the Republic of Action Plan on creation of the National Moldova. Ecological Network Recent designation of three wetlands of interna- Creation of the National Ecological Network tional significance (site nr.1026 “Lower Prut Lakes,” (NEN) is a component part of the territorial ar- with surface of 19,500 ha, site nr. 1316 “Lower Dni- rangements and has to be included in the General ester” – 60,000 ha and site nr. 1500 “Unguri-Holos- Plan on Territory Arrangements of the Republic of nita” – 15,553 ha) will contribute to the increase of Moldova. biodiversity conservation. One of the priority measures is optimizing the ratio between transformed ecosystems and those 18 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Fig. 5. ariile naturale protejate de stat ale Republicii Moldova

stabilizing the environment, particularly forest zzdeveloped and approved Law nr. 94 - XVI dated ecosystems. 5.04.07 on ecological network; Expanding the land stabilizing environment zzdeveloped the draft law on landscapes; should be an indispensable part of the activities re- zzdeveloped and edited the territorial scheme lated to the creation of NEN. The achievement of of national ecological network at a scale of 1: this action plan will ensure the protection of biodi- 500,000; versity at the geo-system level. Implementation of zzdeveloped and presented to GEF project TF the Action Plan of NEN creation requires the al- 020392 “Development of ecological network in location of $1.183 million (USD). the accumulation basin of the middle course of In order to implement the plans’ provisions, the the river Prut” for funding; following were performed: zzdeveloped MENR Order nr. 20 dated 3.07.07 on zzdeveloped and approved the Law on Foresta- the implementation of law on ecological net- tion of Degraded Land (nr. 1041-XIV dated work; 15.06.2000); zzdeveloped the Program on NEN creation; zzdeveloped the Concept on creation of an Eco- zzpublication of the brochure “Ecologic Network logical Network of the Republic of Moldova; – the way to the environmental protection”;

19 Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan Chapter II zzorganized seminars as an integral part of the HARTA ARIEI PROTEJATE POTENŢIALE „TAMARIXVÂLCELE

educational programs; 297 299 304 zz H the methodical guidelines on the creation of A ecological network at different levels are under E F PRUT T1 91 construction; I zzfundraising activities for the Project on creation 92 B D O Chişinău of ecologic network in the Middle Prut were T2 C undertaken. A T1 G 90 307 H 305 J I T2 Action Plan on protecting forest ecosys- 311 K L tems N M Sărata Activities included in this section are aimed at preventing further degradation of forest ecosys- ARBORETE tems and species through the wise use and restora- De plop alb (Plopulus alba) tion of forests, training and maintenance of their De salcie (Salix alba) Cahul Tufărişuri de cătină optimal structure. The set of proposals on develop- (Tamarix ramosissima) ment of institutional capacity and norms of forest Pajişti mezole Pajişti ultrahigrole biodiversity conservation were developed, and the Ape Natural fundamentale needs of development and improvement of human 7GL Derivate resources were identified from institutions specialized in education of the public on the role of forest biodiversity. zzForestry Code provides the main items on maintenance and conservation of forest biodiversity at ecosystems, habitats and genetic levels; zzThe general program on implementation of the National Strategy for Sustainable Devel- opment of Forestry Fund was developed and adopted by Government decision nr. 739 dated 17.06.2003;

Fig. 6. harta ariei protejate (potenţiale) „Tamarix-Vâl- Botanical Garden (institute) of Academy of sci- cele şi vedere din aceiaşi zonă. ences offers methodological assistance in the correct management of protected natural areas (their ecological reconstruction, planning regulated ac- and territorial development in order to extend for- tivities, authorized cutting, performing checks, etc.). est coverage up to 15% of the national territory. The status of protected aria have been scientifically As a result of carrying out critical analysis of the assessed and developed for the allocation of the for- legislative framework and the capacity of institu- est site Luparia, Riscani district. Investigations (in- tions specializing in implementation of provisions cluding partial mapping) have been conducted on on forest biodiversity conservation, assessment the diversity of floristic and phitocenotic diversity in of the capacities of forest users, identifying legal natural forest reserves: Riscani sector: “Pociumbeni,” gaps and constraints that limits the application of “Lucaceni,” “ Stinca,” “Saptebani;” Singerei district: BDNCNSAP and of Convention on Biological Di- “Radoaia;” Nisporeni district: “Selişte-Leu” and versity the following was established: “Cobac;” Hancesti district: “Nemţeni,” ”Sărata Normative documents on the forest regime do Galbenă,” “Vila Caracui,” “Bujor,” representative not ensure full completion of measures on forest sector with forest vegetation “Călineştii Mici,” land- biodiversity conservation; scape reserves “Saharna,” “Tipova,” “Dolna,” “Valea Within the Forestry Agency “Moldsilva” there is M a r e .” no subdivision responsible for conservation of for- The costs were also evaluated and measures est biodiversity. were developed for organizational, methodological 20 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Forest Biodiversity is not sufficiently re- thousand USD is needed. The National Ecological searched; Fund allocates annually about 1 million MDL for Lack of mechanism for financing the activities activities related to new forest planting. related to forest biodiversity conservation; Insufficient financing of objects protected by Action Plan on protecting steppe ecosys- the state, including scientific reserves; tems The protection of objects and complexes pro- Currently the project on “Sustainable and in- tected by the state, placed in the forest fund, is par- tegrated use of steppe sites in the Eurasia area” is tially observed. being implemented, designed for three countries - According to estimations, for implementing the Russia, Ukraine, and Moldova. action plan in the field of forest biodiversity $5,592

Fig. 7. structura Reţelei ecologice a Republicii Moldova

Scara 1:1 500 000

Componente ale reţelei ecologice

Nuclee

Coridoare

internaţionale

naţionale

Localităţi

Chişinău Capitala

Ungheni Municipii

Glodeni Alte localităţi

peste 660 000 locuitori

100 000 - 200 000 locuitori 10 000 - 65 000 locuitori

sub 10 000 locuitori

Frontieră de stat

Limite administrative

Lacuri

Râuri

Păduri

21 Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan Chapter II Within the project “Restoration of steppe habi- The Regulation was also prepared – NGO tat as biotops for vulnerable species of snakes in “Ecospectr” developed the framework of wetlands the meadow “Nistru,” funded by the Zoology Or- of international importance, the Management Plan ganisation from Frankfurt, measures were devel- of the scientific reserve “the Lower Prut” with the oped for improving the habitat and recommenda- support of WWF (Romania); and the organized a tions for grassland restoration. seminar examining the plan, the concept on crea- Within the project “Identifying agricultural tion of Biosphere Reserve “the Lower Prut” was lands of a natural high value: supporting countries also developed. that do not adhere to the European Union” the share of steppe ecosystems was determined that Action Plan on protecting petrophyte eco- maintains natural high value (only 5%) and those systems who have the biologic ability to restore spontane- As a result of the research of petrophyte steppes ously (30%), in case of grazing reduction. sectors in the Middle Nistru canyons, six valuable In order to effectively protect steppe ecosystems, sectors with steppe vegetation were identified with the territory of Moldova was evaluated and 16 ar- a total surface of 960 ha that can be proposed to be eas of interest have been highlighted to be taken taken under protection. under state protection. Action Plan on protecting aquatic and Action Plan on protecting meadow ecosys- paludous ecosystems tems In 2000, four countries - Moldova, Bulgaria, Currently, the wide lands from Lower Nistru Romania and Ukraine - drafted the Declaration meadows, medium and lower Prut, and Raut, as- on the creation of the Green Corridor of Lower sessed in the past with the aim to extend the agri- Danube aimed at protecting and restoring flooded cultural lands, are abandoned and need to be eco- fields and wetlands along the Danube River. logically restored. The Parliament of Moldova adopted Law no. 149 In order to protect meadow ecosystems, the dated 08.06.2006 on the piscicultural fund, fishing Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources has and pisciculture in order to develop and protect prepared the proposal on the creation of an eco- fish reproduction, growth and acquisition of hyd- logical network in the Middle Prut basin, which robionts, to improve fishery aquatic sites and the will contribute to the conservation of natural habi- development of fishery, and to establish manage- tats in this area. ment principles of aquatic biologic resources. Gov- REC Moldova has developed a geographical in- ernment Decision was approved no. 888 of 06.08.07 formation system of Inferior Prut, and promoted authorizing fishing in natural aquatic objects. activities of biocenosis restoration from Andrusul- Under the process of approval are: de-Jos / Vadul-lui-Isac sector (Cahul Area - Vul- Draft law on amending the annex 7 of the Law canesti), as a priority for conservation of biologi- nr. 1538-XIII as of 25.02.98 on Natural Areas Pro- cal diversity and landscapes from the meadow and tected by the State (nr. 3650 as of 01.11.05) – in- aquatic ecosystems of Inferior Prut. cluding the aquatic ecosystem “Lacul Dubasari.” Ecological Movement of Moldova in coopera- “The technical norms on the quality of surface tion with REC Moldova and supported financially waters” was approved on 29 March 2007 by decision by the European Union Commission have realized of the Scientific Council of the Institute of Ecology the project “Assessment of ecological status in the and Geography of the ASM, requiring protection basins of tributaries of the river Prut in the North- and improvement aiming to support fish life ad- Western part of the Republic of Moldova. The main justed to the EU Directives. aim of the project was to enhance the environmen- The project “Save our small rivers” (“Salvaţi tal awareness of the population in villages located Rîuleţele noastre”) was implemented, funding in the basin of the Prut River and its tributaries. projects in 15 localities in Moldova with the objec- The project initiated a study on the means of im- tive to plan vegetation on the banks of small rivers. plementing the Protocol on strategic environmen- The Botanical Garden (Institute) of ASM assessed tal assessment, adopted in Kiev in 2003. Implemen- the state of aquatic, meadow and paludous ecosys- tation of the Action Plan on protection of meadow tems of rivers Delia, Nirnova, Lapusna, Cogilnic ecosystems requires $1,100 thousand USD. and other representative natural sites of the cen-

22 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY tral-western part of the Republic of Moldova (hy- were performed on the capacity development for drological monument of nature – the spring from promoting organic agriculture methods; reduc- Nemteni village). ing the level of nitrate pollution of hydrographical Based on this research proposals were devel- Danube Basin by planting protective forest lines on oped to increase the protection of existing eco- the banks of the river Sovatul Mic; liquidation of systems, taking certain important areas under the six unauthorized garbage dumps an two chemical state protection. storages; public awareness by means of organizing an international conference and a regional semi- Action Plan on protecting biodiversity of nar. agricultural ecosystems In order to assess the organizational capacities For the Republic of Moldova, the issue of agro- of governmental (GOs) and non-governmental bio-diversity conservation is a priority, as there are organizations (NGOs) in the area of bio-agro- large surfaces occupied by the agricultural ecosys- diversity conservation, by means of its office on tems (about 75.6% of the country’s total surface). Biodiversity, MENR assessed the approach and Due to the economic activities there was a massive interpretation of issues related to the conservation destabilization of agro-biodiversity. and restoration of the bio-agro-diversity under the Returning to a stable situation requires consid- restructuring conditions that take place in agricul- erable efforts to: tural domain. zzrestore meadows, springs, arbors, marshes, etc.; The Government of Norway has financially sup- zzintroduce local traditional methods of conser- ported the implementation of the project “Identifi- vation and management of agrofitocenosis; cation of agricultural lands with a high natural val- zzrestore the diversity of the local species in ue,” within which was identified the share of these agrofitocenosis, etc.; lands, types and exact surface of agricultural lands zzrestore the mechanisms of balance’s formation of a high natural value, criteria and indicators for and maintenance between insects shedding pol- their identification, as well as necessary measures len and plants, and natural entomofagi of plant for improving the current situation. pests. In order to implement the Action Plan on pro- With this purpose the following initiatives were tection of agricultural biodiversity $2,303 thou- performed: sand USD is required. zzlegal, conceptual, institutional and management gaps were identified that limit the capacity to Action Plan on protecting biodiversity of implement Biological Diversity Conservation urban ecosystems National Strategy and Action Plan, the conven- Urban ecosystems are an important element for tion on Biological Diversity and other interna- environmental establishment of the territory and tional conventions in the agricultural sector; formation of the national environmental network. zzthe necessities of development and improve- In the past, particular attention was paid to the ment of human resources of the specialized creation of green spaces in towns and villages, but institutions and education were assessed in re- starting with the privatization processes, this tradi- spect to the agricultural biodiversity role and tion was forgotten. conservation and development necessities; Now we can see a trend to reduce green spaces zzIn the Republic of Moldova the project “Pol- by means of deforestation, construction of various lution control in agriculture” is being imple- buildings in squares and alleys, and of houses and mented with the support of World Bank, which garages in urban green areas. provides for actions on reduction of nutrients In order to implement the provisions of Action in the Danube Basin and Black Sea Basin by Plan on protecting the biodiversity of the urban means of an integrated management of the land plan, the following actions were performed: and aquatic resources, consolidation of national zza single procedure was developed to keep policy, and institutional capacity in the domain record of green spaces of urban communities, of pollution control in agriculture. approved by Government decision nr. 676 dated MENR and REC Moldova, as well as other in- 11.07.2000; ternational organizations support and promote zzGovernment decision nr.978 dated 02.09.2004 the above mentioned activities by offering funds was developed establishing a moratorium on to small NGOs. Thus, in Falesti district activities changing streets’ network and location of build- 23 Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan Chapter II ings in the historical center and green spaces of district; Art Lyceum “M. Berezovschi,” Chisinau; Chisinau; theoretic lyceum “Ginta Latină,” Chisinau. zzthe Code on administrative contraventions was The Register of green spaces of urban and rural modified, aiming to increase the fine for unlaw- areas was developed and published for 2007. ful vegetation’ cutting in green spaces and for construction as well as putting buildings into Action Plan on species protection use that are incompatible with green spaces; In order to protect species, the following actions zzthe Law on green spaces of urban and rural were performed: communities was modified, thus prohibiting the zzthe Regulation on special use of the objects in- privatization or lease of sites within the green cluded in the Red Book was developed and ap- spaces; proved by the Government, decision nr. 1094 zzthe Commission reviewing the borders of green dated 22.09.2006 of Republic of Moldova; spaces in Chisinau was created (Order of the zzseminars were organized with the Customs Minister of Environment and Natural Resourc- Service on implementation of the provisions of es, nr. 64 dated 30.11.2004); CITES Convention; zzregister of green spaces is prepared annually zzthe second edition of “Red Book of Republic of based on generalized and systemized data ob- Moldova was published,” as well as a series of 4 tained in the territory (for green spaces moni- volumes “Vegetal world of Moldova,” and a series toring); of 4 volumes “Animal world of Moldova,”as well zz“Valea Morilor” park of culture and recreation as “Medicinal plants,” and “Identifier of plants in Chisinau was given the status of landscape from the flora of the Republic of Moldova”; monument and it was included in the Law on zzthe taxonomic composition and bio-morphol- the natural areas protected by the state; ogy and chorology particularities of Bryophyte zzthe Municipal Design Institute “Urbanproiect” (157 species), Ecvizetophyte (8 species), Polipo- will develop the branch scheme “Creating the diophyte (23 species) of spontaneous flora was system of green spaces in Chisinau,” which will highlighted; be the basis for development of a General Ur- zzkeys for determining taxons were established ban Plan; and “Flora of Republic of Moldova” was pre- zzthe state Environmental Inspectorate main- pared for publication in 6 volumes, and 12 new tains control over the status and protection of plant species were underlined; green spaces in the country (especially the re- zzthe register of valuable species of flora and fau- quirements related to construction location). na was completed, and new habitats and sites The Northern Environmental Agency together of certain species of national and international with the council of Soldanesti district organ- status of protection were established (Leucojum ized seminars on the protection and expansion aestivum L., Tulipa biebersteiniana Schult. et of green spaces in the district. Environmental Schult), Lilium martagon, Cephalanthera sp., Ne- classes were organized in schools and lyceums; ottia nidus-avis, Coenagrion mercuriale, Ciconia zzMENR offered financial support from the Na- nigra, etc.). tional Environmental Fund for the projects providing rehabilitation or creation of new green Action Plan on ex-situ protection of biodi- sites. In 2005 alone, 16 projects received finan- versity cial support in the amount of MDL 1.5 million. The draft laws are under the elaboration process According to estimates, the implementation of for the Law on Biological Security and the the Law the Action Plan on the protection of biodiversity in on environmental protection (to supplement the urban ecosystems requires $593,000 USD. section “genetically modified organisms”). In order to implement the programs on bio- Law nr. –XVI was adopted on zoological gar- diversity conservation, the Botanical Garden (In- dens (developed in accordance with the provisions stitute) of ASM has developed and implemented of Directive 99/22/CE) dated 14.06.07 projects of dendrology and floristic arrangements the Government decision draft was developed of green spaces (squares, parks, and gardens) in on the creation of Botanical Gardens in Balti and urban and rural areas: Zimbreni village, Ialoveni Cahul, as well as restoration of dendrology park district; Oniscani village, Calarasi district; Vasilcau “ Ta u l”. village, Soroca district; Cirpesti village, Cantemir 24 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Collections of local and foreign fit-genetic-ba- Informational and educational initia- sis are held in the Botanical Garden (Institute) of tives ASM, which encompasses about 11 thousand spe- A report was prepared that includes the set of cies and varieties. measures aimed at increasing the capacities of GOs and NGOs: Special and complex initiatives zzto ensure the conservation, rehabilitation, and The implementation of the project “Conserva- development of agro-bio-diversity; tion of biodiversity in the ecosystem of the Lower zzto integrate issues of biodiversity conserva- Nistru”(GEF/WB grant of $975,000 USD) pro- tion with economic and social issues and vides for the establishment of the National Park to support the sustainable development of the be called “The Lower Nistru” on an area of 51,000 agricultural sector. ha. On the basis of the assessment and planning in The following were published: terms of site division and management of various zzBotanics (agricultural and forest), 455 p. ecosystems, a local ecological network was devel- zzDendrology, 500 p. oped. Since the legislative act on the creation of the zzDiscourse on theoretical ecology, Chişinău, park in due time was not approved, the project’s fi- 2007, 557 p. nancing was suspended by the World Bank. zzSystematic ecology, Chişinău, 2007, 296 p. The management plan for the territory “Lun- zzEcology of pollutants, Chişinău, 2007, 177 p. ca Talmaza” of Ramsar area, “the Lower Nistru,” zzBiosfrologie, Chişinău, 2007, 145 p. was developed (with the financial support of the Monographs: Michael Otto Foundation, Germany) and approved zzEnvironmental economy and sustainable de- by the National Ramsar Committee for coordina- velopment. Chisinau, 2003. 189 p. tion of the activities. Within the development pro- zzGenetically modified plants (benefits and gram of the green corridor of the Lower Danube, risks), Chisinau, 2003. 90 p. and with the financial support of WWF, a manage- zzStatus of environmental factors in Republic ment plan for Scientific Reserve “the Lower Prut” of Moldova. 80 p. (OO “ECOSPECTR) was developed. zzBiodiversity assessment, monitoring and eco- At the same time, the Management Plan for system. Chisinau, 2002. 167 p. Ramsar area 1500 “Unguri-Holosnita” was prepared zzRed Book of the Republic of Moldova, second (within the project of SE “BIOTICA,” supported by edition, Stiinta, 2002. 275 p. the Ramsar Convention) and adopted by the Na- zzVegetal world of Moldova, vol. 1. Mushrooms. tional Ramsar Committee. The plan includes site Flowerless plants. Stiinta, 2005. 202 p. division by zones, organizational, economic, and zzVegetal world of Moldova, vol. 2. Plants with management measures for different ecosystems: flowers-I. Stiinta, 2005. 199 p. forests, steppe, meadow, and aquatic. zzVegetal world of Moldova, vol. 3. Plants with In accordance with the objectives of the Action flowers-II. Stiinta, 2006. 203 p. Plan on the creation of the database, deep analy- zzVegetal world of Moldova, vol. 4. Plants with sis has been carried out conducting research and flowers-III. Stiinta, 2007. 182 p. monitoring in the area of biodiversity conservation zzAnimal world of Moldova, vol. 1. Inverte- with historical data sources. The experiences and brates. Stiinta, 2007. 197 p. international trends were also assessed in terms zzAnimal world of Moldova, vol. 2. Fishes, am- of possibilities for development of databases and phibians, reptiles. Stiinta, 2003. 151 p a monitoring system for biodiversity; current gaps zzAnimal world of Moldova, vol. 3. Birds. Sti- and constraints were identified in respect to the inta, 2006. 217 p quality and production system of information on zzAnimal world of Moldova, vol. 4. Mammals. biodiversity; and the set of recommendations was Stiinta, 2004. 131 p developed on the further removal of barriers. zzMedicinal Plants, Litera International, Chisi- Consequently, the report was elaborated en- nau, 2008. 336 p. compassing the inventory of data sources on bio- zzIdentifier of plants from the flora of the Re- diversity and access requirements; the database on public of Moldova, Chisinau, 2007. 391 p. biodiversity of Republic of Moldova was developed zzEnvironment Protection in the Republic of and placed on the web page of the Biodiversity of- Moldova, Chisinau, 2007. fice (http://bsapm.moldnet.md) 25 Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan Chapter II zz zzOther publications: - Open day at the faculties of biologic speciali- zzThe First National Report on Biological Di- zation of the Moldova State University (together versity, 2000. 68 p. with the vegetal biology faculty of MSU). zz zzBiological Diversity Conservation National - School republican contest on biology. zz Strategy and Action Plan (English and Roma- - Creation of the centre for continuous training nian version). Stiinta, 2001.104 p.; for the staff working within the environmental zzManagement Plans for natural and agricul- protection domain. zz tural habitats of the Purcari-Crocmaz sector - Trainings on the use of Geo-informational sys- within the humid area of the Nistru. Chisi- tems (together with REC Moldova), amounting nau. 2002. 80 p. to 45 academic hours. zz zzLaw on natural areas protected by the state. - Thematic radio shows “Conservation of bio- Chisinau, 2002. 102 p., logical diversity.” zz zzStrategy on sustainable development of the - Film shooting: Biodiversity conservation – forest sector in the Republic of Moldova. achievements and barriers. zz Chisinau, 2002. 28 p. - Strengthening the inter-sectoral dialog on the zzGlobal Biodiversity Forum. Report of the implementation of the Biological Diversity Con- First Regional Session for Eastern Europe, servation National Strategy and Action Plan to- 23-25 April 2003, Chisinau, 2004. 61 p. gether with REC Moldova. zz zzAgro-forest practices in Moldova and climate - Current situation in districts and assessment change. Stiinta, 2008, 95 p. of the possibilities for extension of forest sites, together with “Moldsilva.” Conferences and other activities: zzdevelopment of civil society capacities for the zzInternational Conference “Theoretic basis for activities of restoration and conservation of bi- rural and urban communities’ greening and de- odiversity; together with NGO “Ecospectr.” velopment” Chisinau, 2000. zz- International meetings organized by the Min- zzInternational Conference “Sustainable develop- istry of Environment and Natural Resources. ment of the forestry sector of the Republic of Moldova” Chisinau, 2003. A generalization of the results and ob- zzInternational Symposium I “Conservation of stacles encountered during the work, and the diversity of the “in situ” and “ex situ” plants gained experience (role of botanical gardens)” Chisinau, 2003 Components of biodiversity at ecosystem, species zzInternational Conference: Global Biodiversity and genetic levels are still not sufficiently investigated. Forum. The First Regional Session for Eastern Reductions in fauna and flora in Moldova have Europe. Chisinau, Moldova. 2003. not been fully assessed, but the estimations of zzInternational Conference: Integral management certain taxonomic groups indicate a 20% loss. of natural resources of the transboundary basin Loss of endangered species at national, Europe- of the river Nistru, 2004. an and global levels are probably high, but they zzNational Conference: Capacity building in bio- are not evaluated by means of modern methods. diversity conservation. Chisinau, 2003. Biological diversity research at the genetic level is zzRegional Conference: Conservation of biodi- at the initial stage. ASM research institutions have versity in the scientific reserve “the Lower Prut” developed monitoring programs, but due to poor (‘Prutul de Jos”) and transboundary cooperation funding, their implementation is performed only in protected natural areas of the Lower Danube within state protected natural areas. Euro-region (Romania, Moldova, Ukraine). Bio-geographical evaluation (complex) of the Chisinau, 2004. territory has not been performed yet. zzOrganization of round tables on the implemen- Moldova initiated activities on the establish- tation of the Biological Diversity Conservation ment of the National Ecological Network. The National Strategy and Action Plan (3 round ta- main barrier to the implementation of research bles, in cooperation with MEM). Article pub- and monitoring programs are limited financial re- lished in magazine “Natura,” 72 thousand cop- sources and shortages of specialists in the field. Al- ies. though the funding of research on biodiversity has zzAnnual open day at the Botanical Garden of increased 4 times in recent years, they provide for ASM. only 1/3 of the present needs. 26 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY veloped and ensures the realization of strategies In the terms of the impact upon biodiversity, and plans for the conservation of biological diver- the most important factors are the following: sity, but requires improvements to be adjusted to I. In the absence of a state regulatory board, in- the recent international acts, such as: ternal undeveloped agricultural market and the pressure of the foreign market led to: zzcompensation procedure for natural per- zzunstable structure of agricultural use of sons and legal entities - victims of envi- land; ronmental pollution; zzdecrease in soil fertility and consequently, zzincrease responsibilities at all levels and zzloss of agricultural biodiversity, particu- increase the level of implementation of larly soil biota and meadows. incentive mechanisms for CBD; II. Inadequate financial motivation of the mar- zzimprove normative regulations related to ket economy in respect to sustainable forest- sustainable use of biological resources and ry, lack of budget funding for forest manage- the enforcement of adopted legislation; ment with functional purpose, such as those from the Republic of Moldova, cause: 4. The existing institutional framework is suffi- zza continuous decrease in biodiversity of cient to achieve the priority objectives in the CBD forest ecosystems; domain. Institutional framework effectiveness in zzaccumulation of issues that lead to the in- the CBD domain can be increased by increasing stability of forest ecosystems. financial support and integration requirements of III. A poorly developed system of administra- CBD in sector policies and action plans of the Lo- tion and finance of biological diversity con- cal Public Administration. servation activities led to: 5. Scientific research in this area has been inten- zzunder-development of the differentiated sified but they still do not cover the whole spec- tax system and economic stimulation in trum of biodiversity, and the gathered information the field of biodiversity conservation and is sometimes fragmentary. These factors are caused sustainable use of natural resources; by insufficient research funding and insufficient zzdecrease of administrative possibilities scientific equipment and machinery of the institu- and other measures of the central envi- tions, as well as the lack of specialists in the field. ronmental body, including reducing the Research in genetic engineering in the Republic of staff by about 4 times. Moldova is at an initial stage. Policy, legislative and Assessment of the BDNCNSAP (conclusions) institutional frameworks are in the consolidation Changes and trends in the biodiversity domain, period. The Centre for Biological Safety was cre- the outcomes of the undertaken actions on imple- ated. A weak participation of specialists is noticed menting the provisions of BDNCNSAP and Con- in international projects (FP7, CRDF, MRDA, REC, vention USAID, GEF, etc.), in the innovation processes and As a result of the national assessment of the technology transfers in the field. current state of biological diversity conservation in 6. Management of biological resources is a cer- the Republic of Moldova the following were estab- tain measure, regulated by law and existing insti- lished: tutional structures (MENR, IES, AS, “Moldsilva”, 1. It is noted that Republic of Moldova, be- “Apele Moldovei”, etc.), but due to poor environ- ing in the transition to market economy and be- mental education and the population’s low stand- ing affected by global economic crisis has taken ard of living, it is premature to talk about the prin- policy, legislative, financial, scientific-organ- ciples of sustainable use of biological resources. izational measures to stop biodiversity’s deg- 7. Systemic planning of the system of natural radation and initiate biological monitoring; areas protected by the state is sufficiently ensured 2. Policy framework has been developed in ac- from political, legal and institutional point of view. cordance with the biodiversity conservation The main impediments to the achievement of these objectives and sustainable use of biological re- requirements are: sources. It is necessary to increase the integration of CBD requirements in the sector policies and activities of local public authorities; 3. Normative-legislative framework has been de- 27 Current Status on Implementation of Biological Diversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan Chapter II Proposals on the possible means and zzpoor inclusion of the requirements to- sources for removing the identified obstacles wards environmental protection in the territorial planning of the Republic of Means include a set of amendments to the Moldova; BDNCNSAP: zzlow level of planning and control of the 1. A more active integration of requirements of performance of activities on biodiversity Biologic Diversity Conservation in the environ- conservation; mental protection policy, in the strategies and zzinsufficient financial resources for these development programs of the country’s econo- activities. my; 2. Improvement of BDNCNSAP in the area of strengthening relationships between environ- 8. The development of information systems, mental sector (including biodiversity conser- biological monitoring and databases elaboration is vation) and other branches of the national provided from a political and legal point of view. economy, adjusting BDNCNSAP requirements The institutional framework is poorly developed. to the EU practices on promotion of a holistic Funding for these activities is insufficient and approach to CBD management; does not allow the full realization of those require- 3. Assessment of the programs of Convention on ments. biological diversity shows the necessity of re- calculation to identify necessary means on the The shortcomings mentioned in the Bio- scale of recent costs, more active participation logical Diversity Conservation National Strat- in these programs. egy and Action Plan 4. Intensifying scientific research in the field, pre- 1. Coordination of activities within the framework paring young highly qualified scientific staff, es- of those three environmental conventions is at tablishing scientific centers in this area and pro- an incipient stage. viding them with necessary equipment, training 2. Financing of actions on biodiversity conserva- specialists in the field; tion does not cover all the country’s needs in 5. Institutional and financial strengthening of the this area. Office of Biodiversity within MENR through 3. Integration of the biodiversity conservation re- allocation of financial budgetary resources for quirements in sectoral and inter-sectoral pro- improving and developing its capacity. grams requires further continuous develop- 6. Allocation of sufficient financial resources from ment. the state budget, and creation of appropriate 4. Although scientific research, biodiversity moni- mechanisms for BDNCNSAP implementation. toring, staff training and improvement have been bolstered in the last 4 years according to current requirements, the provision for scientific equipment is still at a very low level. 5. The protection regime of the natural areas protected by the state is not fully respected becuase the management does not correspond exactly to the contemporary requirements of planning, execution and organizational support. Manage- ment plans shall be developed in accordance with international standards. 6. Informational activities, public participation in the decision making process, training and civic environmental education in the field of biologic diversity are not sufficient to achieve the national and international commitments undertaken by Moldova.

28 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Chapter III

Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels 3.1. Institutional Framework zzto elaborate and apply economic instruments related to the reduction of pollution, phasing Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources out of toxic substances and use of raw materials (MENR) with reduced environmental impact; zzto elaborate strategy in cooperation with co- MENR is the central national environmental interested institutions and approve measures authority that exercises quality monitoring of envi- for conservation of biodiversity on extension of ronmental components and regulates use of natu- state protected areas funds, on prevention of ef- ral resources. According to MENR Regulation the fects on global warming, etc. main duties are as follows: The Ministry has the right to: zzto develop and promote policies and strategies zzelaborate, approve, issue, modify, abrogate within the field of environmental protection, ration- in its limit normative acts, to issue instruction al use of natural resources, biodiversity conser- in its sphere of activity for legal entities and vation, and participate in the development of individuals with any type of property or legal the environmental component on predictions form of organization, to provide project exper- related to socio-economic development of the tise and attestation of specialists according to country; legal provisions; zzto identify priority issues, developing and pro- zzcarry out state ecological expertise, to issue au- moting national action programs and plans in thorization, permits/certificates within the limits fields of activity, coordinating actions of the its of its field of activity, according to current ministries, departments and local governmental legislation and international conventions rati- authorities to formulate and implement nation- fied by the Republic of Moldova; al, branch, and local programs and plans, and zzreview departmental normative acts of minis- exercise control over achievement; tries and departments within its field of activity, zzto integrate environmental policies in the socio- to issue proposals on suspension of actions with economic processes and in sections of sectoral negative impact on environment or cancel them policies based on principles of sustainable de- in case of incompliance with current norms and velopment and harmonization of legal and nor- standards; mative framework according to EU legislation; zzcontrol compliance with current legislation in zzto monitor and present information to hierar- its field of activity; chical superior bodies on execution of legal and zzsubmit for consideration proposals regarding normative acts, plans, programs, conventions abrogation of decisions of public administra- and international treaties; tion authorities which contradict legal and nor- zzto carry out state control over the State of the mative acts within it activity areas. Environment and use of natural resources; zzto provide functionality of state control systems in its fields of activity; zzto carry out inventory of natural resources, regulate their use, establish limits of use of natural resources as well as their discharges and pollution with hazardous environmental substances, as well as limit storage of waste; 29 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III Institutions subordinated to the MENR are zzanalyze, monitor and evaluate policies elab- following: orated by the ministry and other public au- zzState Ecological Inspectorate thorities, ensuring its compliance with exist- zzState Hydrometeorologic Service ing documents; zzState Agency on Geology of RM “AGeoM” zzadjust and harmonize acts related to existing zzInstitute of Ecology and Geography policies based on the evaluation of national, zzÎ.S. Hydrological Expedition “EHGeoM” regional and local programs on develop- zzNational Agency of Regulation of Nuclear ment. and Radiological Activity State forestry agency “Moldsilva” State forestry agency “Moldsilva” is subordi- Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry nated to the Government of Republic of Moldova (MAFI) and is the central public authority in the sphere of The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry forestry and promotes state policy in the forestry is the central national authority for the promotion sphere – extension, regeneration, conservation, of state policy in the field of agriculture and food ecologic reconstruction and rational use of forest industry, being responsible for development of resources, providing protection and development these branches as well as their economic and social of national forest and cynegetic fund. infrastructure. The agency promotes state policy in the forestry sector with the objective of implementing MAFI’s main duties are as follows: the National Strategy of Sustainable development zzstimulate and monitor the use of sustainable of forestry sector in the Republic of Moldova, im- and efficient farming systems, based on main- plementing the State Program of regeneration and taining and enhancing soil fertility through afforestation of forestry fund, the program on vali- the application of agro-technical, agrochemi- dation of new lands and increase of soil fertility as cal methods and measure land reclamation well as implementing activities related to develop- through land planning and organization, ment of rural and forestry tourism, and the devel- including maintenance and development of opment of beekeeping. hydro-ameliorative and soil conservation systems, and of systems aimed at maintain- Moldsilva main duties are as follows: ing ecological balance and recovery of water zzadministration and management of forestry reserves; and cynegetic fund as state public property zzpromote policy oriented towards rational use through subordinated institutions and or- of energy sources of existing park of agricul- ganizations; ture vehicles and tractors in order to intro- zzorganization of forestry monitoring; duce modern technologies in agriculture and zzregeneration of forests and afforestration of increase the efficiency of agricultural prod- managed forestry fund, extension of lands ucts; covered with forest vegetation and creation zzadminister use of economic and environmen- of protective forest belts of lands and water tal components of agricultural potential of basins, antisliding bands on a contract basis; the state through regulation of application of zzrecovery of domestic forest biocenosis standard projects of territorial arrangement through ecological reconstruction; depending on economic-social category of zzstrict observance of regulation on state pro- each agricultural producer and agro-climac- tected areas fund; teric zone of soils; zzconducting scientific activities in reserva- zzharmonize legislation on agriculture and food tions and other state natural protected areas industry according to EU requirements; according to programs coordinated with cen- zzexecute provisions and articles of the Na- tral environmental authority, the Academy of tional Program “Moldovan Village” and of Science of Moldova, profile institutions and Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction the preparing of research publications on na- Strategy in the field of agriculture; ture;

30 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY zzensuring stability and natural biodiversity of An important direction in their activity is support forests; of farmers in the use of market mechanisms. Raion zzorganization and maintenance of cynegetic sections as well are involved in land use control. fund as well as control of use, regeneration, Local and raion authorities employ cadastre-en- and protection of forestry and cynegetic gineers to deal with land disputes, conduct anti- fund; sliding work and other activities related to the use zzresponsible use of forestry products. of lands and soils. However LPA capacities are not structures for implementation of objectives of Na- Ministry of Local Public Administration tional strategy and Action plan in the sphere of (MLPA) conservation of biological diversity. As a rule at the local level there are few quali- The Ministry is the central specialized body of fied personnel in the sphere of biodiversity. Chisi- public administration and undertakes the follow- nau municipality and several raion centers can be ing main duties: monitoring the enforcement of the named as exceptions. There is limited planning of provisions within the programs for enhancing and ecological activities, especially afforestation works fortifying local public administration developed in and the creation of new green spaces; monitoring line with Government Activity Program, European and evaluation are either limited or lacking along Council standards and assuring the fulfillment of with personnel, technical and financial resources strategies and programs in its field of activity. for the implementation of the Strategy’s objectives. MLPA exercises the following main duties: zzfulfill the objectives of Government Activity Other authorities in the sphere programs and strategies in the field of local Agency “Apele Moldovei” - created according public administration, including those that to Governmental Decision nr.904 (09.08.2008) is are derived from the international commit- the central authority of unified water management ments of the Republic of Moldova and from throughout entire territory of the country (previ- the European Integration Strategy; ously a division within MAFI). 20 state enterprises zzset up new development policies in local pub- are working within the agency. The agency exer- lic administration; cises the following main duties: zzdevelop legislation related to local public ad- zz ministration field; administration and state control in the field zzmonitor the enforcement of regional devel- of water management and protection to en- opment legislation by local public adminis- sure its complex use; zz tration authorities. provision of all sectors of the national economy and population with water; zzprotection of localities and agricultural lands Local public authorities (LPA) against freshets and floods; zz Law nr. 436 (28.12.2006) regarding local public construction and exploitation of irrigation administration and Law nr. 435 (28.12.2006) re- systems, hydro-technical facilities and amel- garding decentralization of administration provid- iorative arrangements, etc. ed local authorities extensive functions related to local development, natural resource management “Apele Moldovei” along with MENR are respon- and environmental protection. Clear and defined sible for state control over observance of legislation missions in the field of biodiversity are set in the in the sphere of water management. following legal acts: Forest Code, Vegetal Kingdom Presently the responsibilities on water manage- Law, Animal Kingdom Law, Law on State protected ment are dispersed among different public admin- natural areas; Law on Green Spaces of Urban and istration bodies, a fact which leads to inefficient Rural Localities; Law on badlands improvement by general water management, especially water supply afforestation; Law regarding natural resources. for population. Raion councils have sections for agriculture Agency of Agricultural Relations and Cadastre that are responsible for issues related to use of land - is one of the Governmental institutions, having and agricultural products. Their activity is oriented its main responsibilities in administration of land, towards an increase of efficiency of agricultural cadastre and programs on improvement of soil products including support of unification of lands. fertility. The agency includes two research institu- 31 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III tions working in the field of agricultural research economic activity. The state of the environment and and works on map-making and geodesy. State Re- the efficient use of natural resources affect economic publican Association for Soil Protection within the growth conditions and the level and quality of life of Agency is responsible for anti-sliding works and the population. The irresponsible use of natural re- activities for protection and improvement of soil sources over decades, the intensive exploitation of fertility. The association includes 12 regional cent- agricultural lands, the use of ecologically harmful ers on soil protection that are financed from funds technologies in agriculture and industry, and air and obtained through transactions with state-owned water pollution, have all led to a significant reduction land. in productivity of natural potential and a destructive Cooperation and coordination among authori- impact on the environment, especially on water re- ties is not always at an adequate level, and coopera- sources, air, soils and biodiversity. tion could especially be improved among MAFI, The main objectives are as follows: MENR and Moldsilva. Information exchange be- zzprevent and reduce the degradation of natural tween institutions is limited but regulations that resources and increase the efficiency of their different state authorities follow are not entirely use; coordinated. Each organization is more focused zzmaintain the quality of the environment as a fac- upon implementation of its own programs and tor that ensures health and the quality of life; plans without a clear commitment to look for joint zzcreate an effective natural disaster monitoring, opportunities and integration of financial and hu- prevention, and damage compensation system. man resources with other institutions in order to Long-term strategy has many priority direc- achieve more efficient implementation. tions for activity among which the following related to conservation of biological diversity can be mentioned: 3.2. legal framework, strate- zzthe protection and increase of the forestry gies, programs and their imple- fund; mentation in the sphere of con- zzthe protection and extension of areas of natural servation of biological diversity. reserves protected by the state; zzthe reduction in the speed of soil degradation; zz 3.2.1. Cross-sectoral level the improvement of the system of natural disasters monitoring, and the provision of infor- Several important policy documents were mation and education to the population in this elaborated and approved during the last period area; at cross-sectoral level, such as: Economic Growth zzthe improvement of the administrative, eco- and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EGPRS), Action nomic and financial mechanisms for environ- Plan Moldova-EU, National Program “Moldovan mental protection and sustainable management Village” (2005-2015), National Program and Na- of natural resources; tional Development Strategy (2008-2011). zzthe increase of ecological knowledge of the population, the facilitation of access to information Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction on environmental issues, and the participation Strategy (EGPRS) Parliamentary Decision nr. of the public in decision-making regarding the 398 from 02.12.2004 management of natural resources. Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction Strat- Actions envisaged for the period of 2005-2006 egy (EGPRS) is the overarching policy framework directed towards conservation of biological diver- for sustainable development in the Republic of sity were implemented in a limited manner, due to Moldova in the medium term. The strategy estab- lack of financial resources. lishes objectives and priorities whose implementation shall not only be possible in the medium term National Program “Moldovan Village” (2005- but is necessary for implementation of long-term 2015) Governmental Decision nr. 242 from objectives of the country’s socio-economic devel- 01.03.2005. opment. (p.138) The Chapter on Environmental This document was elaborated for the imple- protection and sustainable use of natural resources mentation of Economic Growth and Poverty Re- of the strategy emphasizes the need of integration duction Strategy and serves as a basis for fulfilling of sustainable development principles in socio- its priority objectives in the rural areas. 32 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Among priority objectives of the activity in the One of the main objectives of the National De- field of environmental protection and sustainable velopment Strategy consists of ensuring of bal- use of natural resources the following can be men- anced regional development. tioned: At the national level activities related to imple- zzthe reduction of the pollution of environmental mentation of policy framework shall be based on components (water, air, soil); the following spheres: infrastructure, public serv- zzthe protection of biodiversity and extension of ices, business, tourism, environment, agriculture, state protected natural areas; and rural development. zzthe reduction of erosion and the slowing of soil The objective of ensuring impartial regional de- degradation; velopment includes the prevention of environmen- zzthe improvement of the administrative, eco- tal pollution and efficient use of natural resources nomic and financial mechanisms for environ- in line with improvement of quality of life. The mental protection and sustainable management fulfillment of these objectives envisages that en- of natural resources; vironmental policy will be implemented with ac- zzthe increase in the level of ecological knowledge tive involvement of local public authorities in the of the population. system of management of natural resources. In this context measures related to clear division of tasks Action Plan “Republic of Moldova – Euro- among local and central authorities shall be taken pean Union Governmental Decision nr. 356 in order to strengthen the capacities of responsi- from 22.04.2005. ble public authorities as well for increase of public Action Plan Moldova – EU is the policy docu- awareness regarding the negative impact of some ment that lays out the strategic objectives of co- activities on the environment. operation between Moldova and EU. This also in- Among planned activities related to protection cludes issues related to sustainable development of biological diversity the following can the men- and provides measures that must be taken to bet- tioned: ter integrate environmental aspects in other sector zzprevention and reduction of degradation of nat- policies, especially in industry, energy, transport, ural resource and their more efficient use with regional development and agriculture. emphasis on measures on prevention of soil The Plan also provides measures for strength- degradation; ening administrative structures in the field of en- zzmultilateral cooperation on monitoring and vironment and establishes procedures regarding protection of Prut and Nistru basins, including access to environmental information and public water management, fishing and irrigation; participation according to European standards. zzmodernization and improvement of the nation- Among environmental priorities the following al monitoring system on status and evolution can be mentioned: strengthening of structure and of hydrometeorological conditions, including procedures necessary for performing of environ- natural disasters and environmental quality; mental assessment, including trans-boundary con- zzextension of state protected natural area fund text, harmonization of legislation, continuation of and protection of flora and fauna; adoption of legislation in main sectors of the en- zzincrease of afforestation degree through for- vironment, including adoption of legal framework estation of degraded agricultural land including on flora, fauna and environmental networks. planting of forest bands for agricultural land protection; zz National Development Strategy 2008- improvement of state control for execution of 2011. Law nr. 295-XVI from 21.12.2007. legislation in the field of environmental protec- The Strategy is composed of two parts: tion and sustainable use of natural resources. zzThe Strategy itself, which presents direction for activities that will be fulfilled on medium term 3.3. Sector level scale and identifies ways and mechanisms for the realization of proposed objectives; zzAn Action plan for implementation of the Strat- 3.3.1. agriculture egy, which includes specific tasks for fulfillment Agriculture in the Republic of Moldova has a of identified objectives. significant impact upon biological diversity at all levels: genetic, species, population, ecosystems. 33 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III That’s why it is very important in integrate aspects chemicals and of potentially destructive agri- of conservation of biological diversity in the field cultural practices; of agriculture. The Activity program in the field of zzContinuous maintenance and improvement agriculture as a part of the Convention on Biologi- of natural soil fertility as well as integration of cal Diversity (Decision V/5) has as its main goal plant cultivation system in animal husbandry; the reduction of impact of agriculture upon bio- zzFulfillment of mechanisms of placing ecologi- logical diversity. cal agriculture which will ensure balanced and Similar to other countries, in the Republic of sustainable agricultural systems which will con- Moldova the agricultural sector has a significant tribute to the natural processes of soil’s self-pu- impact upon environment. The market of ecologi- rification and regeneration. cal products is in constant increase. This has be- Land Code (nr.828-XII dated 25.12.1991) de- come the basis for integration of environmental termines categories of agricultural and forest land. aspects into agricultural policy and practice. The Code stipulates that ecological protection of With this purpose several legal and normative land is the superior form of other activities and acts were elaborated during the last three years: includes provisions to disallow use of land in situ- Law on ecological agricultural and food production ations that provoke land degradation. The Code (2005); National strategy of sustainable development is very restrictive regarding the opportunity to of agricultural complex of RM (2008-2015); Nation- change the category of agricultural or forest land. al Program of protection of ecological agricultural A draft of a New Land Code will regulate land re- and food production (2006); Regulation on methods lations in the field of agriculture and forest in the and principles of ecological agricultural and food context of environmental protection. products (2006); Regulation on system on inspec- Problems with excessive pasturing are stipulat- tion and certification of ecological agricultural and ed in the Law on Plant Kingdom (2007), Concept food products (2006); Rules on import and expert on Environmental Policy (2001); provisions in the of ecological agricultural and food products (2006); field are included in the draft as well as other nor- National program on development of beekeeping of mative acts: Law on soil, Law on zootechny, Regula- RM (2006-2015); Program on agricultural land con- tion on pasturing and mowing. solidation (2006) and others. During recent decades the Republic of Moldova Currently the following legal and normative has become a pioneer in the use of biological and acts are already drafted and in process of approval: integrated methods of protection of agricultural Land Code, Law on Soil, Law on zootechny; Regula- cultures from pests. Currently only one percent tion on pasturing and mowing; Technical regulation of plant protection systems are based on biologi- on “Croustaceos, molluscoid and other aquatic in- cal methods. The system of prognosis of pestholes, vertebrates prepared or canned”; sanitary veterinary which represents the basis for integrated plant pro- regulation on hygiene of nutrition and unsought sub- tection are poorly applied. Phytosanitary products stances in forage”; Technical regulation “Mushrooms, and fertilizers can be introduced on the market, Products from mushrooms”; Technical regulation transported or used in a manner established in Law “Legume products. Production and commerce”. on phytosanitary products and fertilizers (2004), Normative acts mentioned above include activi- Regulation on appraisal and approval of phyto-san- ties which are directly related or support general itary products and fertilizers and fertilizers used in priorities of environmental protection. agriculture and forestry (Gov. Dec. nr. 1307 dated Law on ecological agricultural and food prod- 12.12.2005). It is prohibited to put phyto-sanitary ucts nr. 115/09.06.2005 includes provisions on products and fertilizers that are not introduced in certification of ecological products. The law regu- the State Registry of plant protection products and lates social reports related to obtaining ecologic ag- fertilizers on the market. ricultural products without use of synthetic chemi- Protection of agriculture in RM from introduc- cals as well as commerce of ecological phytogenic tion and spreading of pest plants and organisms is products. Main principles of the law are: mainly based on Law on phytosanitary quarantine zzRealization of balanced, sustainable and diverse (1995); Law on plant protection (1999); Law on phy- agricultural system, which will ensure protec- tosanitary products and fertilizers (2000); Hygiene tion of natural resources, health of consumers; norms on residues of phytosanitary products in en- zzBanning of application of pollutant technolo- vironmental objects (2003) and others. Normative gies, restrictive regulation of use of synthetic acts set protective legal framework and observance 34 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY of these acts ensures adequate protection from the publican State Association for Soil protection. Pro- introduction of pests from exterior sources. Legis- gram envisages fulfillment of works on planting of lation foresees application of quarantine upon ma- forest bands with the support of “Moldsilva.” terials and objects that can contribute to pestholes, Program on amelioration of lands and in- pathogen agents or weeds. The main objective of crease of soil fertility for the period of 2003-2010 placement of quarantine is the prevention of intro- is not very detailed, however the responsibility for duction of different pest cultures from other states its implementation is divided among State Agency in the territory RM. on Land Relations and Cadastre, MAFI, Moldsilva, In general the methods and mechanisms of phy- MENR as well as local authorities. The program is tosanitary regulation in the Republic of Moldova financed from extra-budgetary funds. are similar to those in the EU, however there are National Action plan on combating of de- still numerous discrepancies. EU phytosanitary sertification (2000) is an ambitions program that regulations are much more detailed regarding pre- includes series of measures; however their imple- ventive phytosanitary measures that anticipate cri- mentation has not been sufficient so far. sis situations. Acts related to agriculture include some aspects of protection of biodiversity and sustainable use of The National Strategy for Republic of resources, especially regarding soil, meadowland, Moldova Agro-Industrial Complex Sustaina- forest protection bands as well as promotion of ble Development (2008-2015) (nr. 282 dated ecological agriculture. At the same time there are 11.03.2008) some things lacking regarding promotion of envi- The document stipulates strategic coordination ronment-friendly agricultural practices, manage- of the main political, economic and social actions ment of degraded soils such as pastures, adapta- for agro-industrial sector development at the nation to climate change, as well as identification and tional level. The General Objective of the strategy conservation of agricultural lands of high natural refers to ensuring a sustainable increase of the value. agro-industrial sector with a consequent improvement of quality of life in rural areas by increasing 3.3.2. Forestry the sector’s competitiveness and productivity. Besides the fact that timber mass and obtain- Among strategic objectives of sustainable devel- ing accessory products contributes to the develop- opment of agro-industrial complex related to bio- ment of national economy – forests represent an diversity conservation the following can be men- important factor of maintenance of ecologic bal- tioned: ance. In conditions of Moldova with wide altern- zzAligning national standards to EU standards ant temperatures, with drought often, water deficit, and ensuring food safety, the priority directions soils exposed to landslides and with tendency of in this objective are: development of the phy- diminution of soil fertility the role of forest protec- tosanitary strategy on protection of plants, pre- tion is of significant importance. vention of entry of noxious organic structures’ Thus country’s forestry has a positive impact and dissemination on the country’s territory in upon development of all important sectors and fields line with community legislation and implemen- of activity of national economy, such as agriculture, tation; hunting, orchard, phytotechny, zootechny, etc. zzPreserving Soil Quality – Agricultural Produc- Legislation of the Republic of Moldova has tion Fundamental Means and namely: a) eco- many acts that refer to forestry, including laws, logical reconstruction of degraded soils; b) pre- Governmental Decisions, and strategies. venting and combating landslides; c) ecologic It is necessary to plant about 128,000 ha lands reconstituting of meadowland vegetation; d) with forest vegetation by year 2020 to ensure eco- extension of afforested areas and protection of logical balance and broader influence upon climate forest bands to set up green carcass for soil pro- and hydrologic regime of the territory, to create tection; e) reestablishing and extending humid ecological corridors for interconnection among zones; f) promoting ecological and genetically forest bands and increase productivity of agricul- unmodified agriculture. tural land in the Republic of Moldova. Extension Complex program on soil protection from of surfaces covered with forest vegetation is fore- erosion for the period of 2003-2012, financed seen by Law on amelioration through afforestation from the state budget and implemented by the Re- of degraded lands nr. 1041-XIV, 2000; Governmen- 35 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III tal Decision nr. 595 from 29.10.96 (p.2 and 4), nr. ever de-facto certification of forest products hasn’t 107 dated 1.02.2001 (p.7, al.2); State program on been introduced in the country. Presently there is a regeneration and afforestation of forestry fund lands draft normative act on certification of forest prod- for the period of 2003-2020; National Strategy and ucts (at concordance stage. Cutting of forest fund Action plan on conservation of biological diversity; and vegetation around it are the subject of obliga- Strategy of sustainable development of forest sector tory authorization according to art. 40 of Law on of RM; General action plan on implementation of environmental protection and Law on Plant King- National Strategy of Sustainable development of for- dom. The possibility of harvesting of timber mass est sector of RM as well as other multilateral inter- is established according forestry arrangements and national treaties to which Moldova has adhered. being approved by Governmental Decision nr. 737 Forest Code (Nr.887 dated 21.06.1996) repre from 17 June 2003. sents legal framework on general management For collection of auxiliary products (medicinal of forest funds in RM. The main principles of the plants, fruits and other parts of plants), the special Code are sustainable use of forests and protection authorization from MENR is being issued accord- of their biodiversity. The Code stipulates responsi- ing to provisions of Law on Plant Kingdom. Export bilities of central forest authorities and other au- and import activities of forest products are per- thorities and co-interested stakeholders and sets formed through obtaining permission from MENR rules of use and protection of forest resources. It or permit/certificate CITES – for species regulated stipulates that in Moldova forests can be public or by Convention on international trade of endan- private property. gered species of wild fauna and flora (Washington, Law on amelioration through afforestation 1973), according to normative act: Procedure of of degraded lands nr. 1041-XIV, 2000 describes authorization of import and export activities of procedures of afforestation of public or private de- plants and animal from wild flora and fauna, of graded lands. Moldsilva is responsible for affores- their parts or derivations as well as import/export tation of degraded lands and application of activi- or re-export of flora and fauna species regulated by ties within the limits of the Law. In cases when the Convention CITES (2000). landowner takes measures stipulated in the Law Regulation on authorization of cutting of for- for the creation and maintenance of forest lands it est fund and exterior forest fund vegetation (Nr. can be exempt from land tax for the period of 24 27 from 19.01.2004) doesn’t include special provi- years. sions regarding cutting in protected areas with the Program on amelioration of lands and in- exception of cases of natural disasters. In this case crease of soil fertility (2003) foresees afforestation cutting is authorized by central public authorities of 128,000 ha, including by zones: north – 42.7 th. responsible for natural resources and environmen- ha, center – 64.1 th. ha, south – 24.4 thousands ha. tal protection, based on recommendations of spe- For implementation of the Program Moldsilva an- cial commissions established for each individual nually plants about 7,500 ha of forest cultures at case and composed of representatives of central degraded and strongly degraded lands, landslides, authorities responsible for management of natural ditches, etc. In total about 53 th. ha of degraded resources and environmental protection (namely lands were afforestated during the period of 2002- the State Ecological Inspectorate, ecologic agen- 2008 besides the forest fund. cies, Academy of Science of Moldova, central or According to State Program on regeneration territorial units of forest authorities). and afforestation of forest fund land for the period of 2003-2020, approved through Governmen- Strategy of sustainable development tal Decision nr. 737 from 17.06.2003, at surface of of the forest sector of RM (Nr. 350 dated 20 th. ha works on regeneration of forests were 12.07.2001) performed during the period of 2002-2008. Key issues of national interest in the forest sec- Still the process of forest certification and es- tor are presented in this document: 1) conservation tablishment of indicators is quite problematic. Ac- of biological diversity of forests; 2) responsible use cording to the provisions of article 32 of the Forest of forest resources; 3) extension of surfaces with Code: Forest products are the subject of certifica- forest vegetation. tion. Organization of certification of forest prod- Objectives of the strategy which stipulate con- ucts is performed according to the mode, condi- servation of biological diversity of forest are: tions, and list approved by the Government. “How- 36 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY zzextension of natural regeneration of arbores zzelaboration and implementation of public through application of treatment that permits awareness campaigns and information of deci- conservation and creates tress with varied opti- sion-makers on the importance of conservation mal horizontal and vertical structure; of biological diversity, active participation of zzadjustment of system of protected areas with the non-governmental organization in these activi- requirements of the entire spectrum of forest ties. ecosystems, establishment of a forest ecological The sectoral mechanism still doesn’t exist for re- network with better protection and forest sec- alization of the mentioned objectives and there is tors of special interest for conservation and re- no mechanism for intersectoral cooperation. Addi- generation of representative forest ecosystems; tionally efficient measures aren’t promoted to com- zzapplication of methods and techniques for bat species aggressively introduced, such as Acer treatment of trees based on adequate ecologi- negundo, and in some cases plantation of acacia cal basis, adjusted to objectives of conservation are placed instead of domestic forests, including in and amelioration of forest biological diversity, valuable habitats. protection of vulnerable and endangered for- Some main components of complex of actions est ecosystems (beech, oak, gorunete petrofite, needed for promotion of agro-silvic practice im- Quercus pubescens forest); plemented by Moldsilva are included in projects zzconservation and improvement of relief forms “Soil conservation in Moldova” and “Development through afforestation on stationary-type bases of public forests.” of lands affected by landslides or pluvial bad- About 20.3 thousand ha of degraded lands were lands; afforested within the framework of the project “Soil zzamelioration of biological diversity of degraded conservation in Moldova” in the context of preven- forests from a silvic-biological point of view tion of climate change and soil degradation for the through application of technologies based on period of 2002-2008. Project implementation has ecological reconstruction of forests; contributed to the reduction of negative impact zzintegration of issues on conservation of biologi- of economic activity, diminishing of degradation cal diversity of forests in concept and practice of processes and amelioration of environmental fac- forest arrangements; tors with direct impact on population health and zzsupplement of criteria on functional zoning of ecological security of the country. forests with components regarding conserva- The legislation of the Republic of Moldova in the tion of biological diversity, including generic field of forest fund includes provisions related to forest resources; conservation of biological diversity, and which un- zzprohibition of replacement of domestic forest fortunately are not always respected. It is necessary through introduction of exotic species without to pay more attention to implementation of activi- profound preliminary testing; ties in the field of minimization of consequences zzgradual receding of chemical control of for- of climate changes, to elaborate other types of ac- est pests and prudent application of biological tivities within forest fund besides the harvesting of methods of control; timber mass, such as the development of tourism, zzbanning of unjustified clearing of forests and collection of non-timber products, etc. exterior forest vegetation; zzcease of fragmentation or destruction of silvic 3.3.3. rural Development habitat that leads to reduction of the number The state of the environment is the subject of of surviving species, provokes negative conse- continuously increasing anthropogenic pressure quences of inbreeding, genetic drift and loss of due to irresponsible use of natural resources, the genetic diversity; intensive exploitation of agricultural lands, the use zz maintenance of diversity of species through of ecologically harmful technologies in agriculture implementation of specialized programs on and industry, and air and water pollution. As a re- conservation of rare and endangered taxons by sult it has led to significant reduction in productiv- creation of normative framework on efficient ity of natural potential and a destructive impact on protection; the environment, especially on water resources, air, zz assuring conservation of global value species; soils and biodiversity. zz avoidance of destruction of migration paths for At present erosive soil processes are a serious fauna species; threat that considerably decrease the development 37 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III of agriculture because the agricultural soil yield ers. According to data presented by the State Eco- potential is declining. logical Inspectorate the volume of 30 thousand m3 Stringent state of rural sector requirement the were authorized for cutting during the period of needs application of new form and methods of 2004-2007. strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation of Presently MAFI implements the project “Pollu- strategies and sectoral programs in the field of ag- tion control in agriculture.” One of the project ob- riculture and rural sector, essential changes in state jectives is the promotion of adoption of environ- policy regarding rural communities, profound ment-friendly practices by farmers from the pilot changes in legal and institutional framework. area as well as strengthening of national policy, and Rural development is one of the priorities of the legal and institutional capacity that will ensure pol- Moldova – EU Action plan along with activities lution control with nutrients. in the field of environment, agriculture, with the As conclusion it is necessary to mention that the objective of improving food security and trade. issue of biological diversity isn’t fully reflected in National program “Moldovan Village” rep- documents related to rural and regional develop- resents a political framework for sustainable stra- ment. tegic planning, including a budget elaborated for implementation of EGPRS, and it includes princi- 3.3.4. trade ples of sustainable development and parameters of The Republic of Moldova has adhered to the Millennium Development Goals. Environmental Convention on International Trade of Endangered Protection is one objective of the program and in- Species of wild fauna and flora (CITES, Washing- cludes activities of soil protection and the creation ton, 3 March 1973) through Law nr.1246-XIV dat- of forest bands ($3.6 billion USD for a period of 10 ed 28 September 2000. Articles regarding import years). and export activity of endangered species of wild The main objectives of the Law on regional fauna and flora, components and by-products as development of RM (Nr. 438 dated 28.12.2006) well as import/export or re-export, transit of flora support the local public administration and local and fauna species regulated by CITES were includ- communities in social economic development of ed in: Law on animal kingdom nr. 439-XIII from the territory and coordination of interaction of 27.04.95 (amended and modified in years 2005, it with national, sector and regional development 2007, 2008); Law on Plant Kingdom nr. 239 - XVI strategies and programs. from 08.11.2007, Law nr.325-XVI from 15.12.2005 According to Law nr. 436 dated 28.12.2006 regarding Red Book of RM, Governmental Deci- regarding local public administration and Law sion nr. 1107 from 11.09.2003 regarding approval Nr. 435 dated 28.12.2006 regarding administra- of present regulation and procedure of authori- tive decentralization, local public authorities are zation of activities according to CITES (Official responsible for administration of local private and monitor of RM, 2000, nr. 96-99, art. 221). public goods, urban planning and management of Import or export activities of endangered spe- green spaces of local interest, as well as administra- cies of flora and fauna can be organized and per- tion of any issue of local interest that is not exclud- formed by legal entities and natural persons only ed from their competences and is not subordinated on the basis on CITES Permit/certificate or envi- to another authority. ronmental agreement according to provisions of An efficient solution of the set of social, ecologi- normative acts mentioned by present Procedure cal, economic, and political problems at rural level as well as customs, veterinary and phyto-sanitary presents a process of sustainable development of norms and procedures. agriculture through an increase of ecological agriculture and high productivity. With this goal the Procedures applied for organization and per- draft Law on facilitation of rural entrepreneur- forming of import/export activities of: ship has been elaborated. a) medicinal, aromatic, food, forage, gambier, There are still some problems related to for- tinctorial or ornamental plants from spon- est and other forest vegetation administrated by taneous flora, integrally or by roots, rhizo- primarias. There are not trustworthy statistics on phorus, bulb, stalk, branches, strips, flowers, harvested timber mass in the process of applica- leaves, fruit, seeds and berries in living state, tion of forest cutting for forest fund and vegetation fresh or half-black; administrated by primarias and other landown- 38 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY zz b) mushrooms, ferriage, mussels, branches of Provision of necessary assistance to enterprises mistletoe as well as other wild plants, their for elaboration of their own environmental pro- parts or products in living state, fresh or half- tection programs; zz black; Introduction of pure technologies and products, c) stickseeds, shell snails, frogs, crustacea, ser- ensuring optimal balance of cost/benefit ratio, pentine, birds, fish and mammal, as well as as well as elaboration of new modes of produc- other wild fauna terrene and aquatic, includ- tion and consumption through support of im- ing their parts and by-products; plementation of an environmental management d) species of wild plants cultivated with com- system (ISO 14001). mercial purposes for export as well as wild Among primary measures in the field of animals grown in captivity for commercial industrial ecology the following can be men- purposes of export. tioned: zzharmonization of national ecological norms Through approval of Law nr. 201 – XVI, and standards to international standards, and 03.10.08 the Republic of Moldova has accepted the primarily to the EU; provisions of Amendment to CITES convention zzimplementation of ecological audit of enter- adopted at Gaborone, (Botswana, 30 April 2003). prises; But on 31.05.2009 the new Code of Administra- zzobligatory provision of state ecological ex- tive Violations nr. 24.10.2008 will enter into force, pertise of schemes, programs, and plans for which separately includes an article with sanctions development of industrial sectors/branches, related to “collection or picking of plants, capturing investment projects, project documents of all or killing of animals included in Red Book of RM industrial enterprises. and annexes of CITES convention.” Energy Strategy of the Republic of Moldo- 3.3.5. Industry va until 2020 (Nr. 958 from 21.08.2007) Given the fact that industry is one of the most This Strategy refers to objectives, measures important sectors of Moldova that must be devel- and activities directed towards the creation of a oped, it has been included as the main subject in more efficient, competitive and certain energetic several development strategies. complex, which will ensure energy security of the country, modernization of existing energy infra- National Industrial Development Strategy structure, improvement of energy efficiency, use of until 2015 (Nr. 1149 dated 05.10.2006) renewable energy sources and integration with the Main objective of this Strategy is the creation European energy market. of a technologically advanced industrial sector of economy, efficient and competitive, adjusted to Among the main objectives of environmental European standards. To implement objectives, the policy within the energy development strategy Strategy stipulates elaboration and use of mecha- the following can be mentioned: zz nisms and instruments oriented towards environ- reduction of negative impact of economic ac- mental protection and responsible use of natural tivity on the state of the environment in the resources, such as: context of sustainable national development; zz zzsupport of a complex legislative system, har- increase of public awareness regarding the monized with EU legal framework and require- need for environmental protection; zz ments of multilateral international conventions reduction of negative impact on human and protocols to which the Republic of Moldova health. is a party; The Strategy plans on adoption of systems of zzensuring control upon responsible use of natu- integrated management according to international ral resources through implementation of new standards for better monitoring of environmental mechanisms on regulation – authorizations and impact, such as: licenses that are based on the “polluter pays” zzenvironmental management systems according principle; to ISO 14001 standards;

39 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III zzmanagement systems of health and occupation- ogy), institution of the Ministry of Agriculture and al safety according to OHSAS 18001 standard. Food Industry (stations “Porumbeni,” “Selecţia,” Another measure of environmental protection “Horticultură,” and others). Botanical Garden is the promotion of an energy system based on con- (Institute) of Academy of Science of Moldova re- version of energetic potential of renewable sources, searches flora and vegetation of RM, evaluates energy efficiency, and clean fuel technology. Imple- taxonomic and phytocenotic capacities of national mentation of the national program of energy con- natural protected areas and elaborates proposals servation and National program on improvement regarding its protection. The two first volumes of of renewable energy sources will significantly con- the book “Flora of the Republic of Moldova” are tribute to the decrease of harmful emissions. prepared for publishing. The Institute of Zoology In conclusion we can state that inclusion of is- researches the complex fauna of natural ecosys- sues related to biological diversity in the field of in- tems and suggests measures on conservation of dustry is very limited and requires more profound diversity of fauna species. Although the financ- activity for application. ing of research institutions has been considerably increased, the institutions mentioned are poorly 3.3.6. health equipped with scientific equipment, scientific field In the field of health the Strategy of develop- visits and complex expeditions lack financing. ment of health system for the period of 2008-2017 According to performed analysis in the educa- (nr.1471 from 24.12. 07), National Health Strategy tional sphere, the main objective of educational (nr.913 from 26.08.05), Anticorruption strategy in system of RM is the formation of active and re- the field of healthcare (approved by Decision of the sponsible citizens, which perfectly complies with College of Ministry of Health nr.6 from 06.11.07), the idea of 2005-2014 decade on “Education for and Communication strategy on European inte- sustainable development.” gration of RM (nr.1542 from 29.12.2007) were an- Pre-school education: for children ages 3-7 alyzed. All these strategies do not include any ac- new curriculum is implemented which includes a tivities in the field of conservation of biodiversity. curriculum section on “Science, environment and According to Parliamentary decision nr.112-XV ecological culture.” In the framework of this pro- of 27.04.2001, elaboration of regulation on provi- gram they acquire special knowledge and skills in sion of biological security, use of GMO and biotech- this sphere. nologies is planned regarding national strategy and Pre-university education: in the current state action plan in the field of conservation of biological of education the objectives of ecological educa- diversity lit. F pt. 2.6. of the General Action plan in tion are integrated in other obligatory disciplines: the field of conservation of biological diversity. In “Science,” “Biology,” “Chemistry,” “Physics,” “Geog- this context the Ministry of Health has elaborated raphy,” “Spiritual and moral education,” native lan- Law nr. 78-XV from 18.03.2004 regarding food guage and literature, foreign language, as well as in products. This law regulates food products from optional disciplines: “Ecology and environmental genetically modified organisms. Unfortunately the protection,” “Ecological education,” “Environmen- issue of biological diversity isn’t reflected in pro- tal protection,” “Civic education,” “Moral and civic grams and strategies related to health, even though education,” “Us and the Law.” the population’s health to large extent depends on a Currently the manual “Ecology and environ- healthy environment and maintenance of ecologi- mental protection” has been published with finan- cal system functioning. cial support from UNESCO. This manual has been disseminated in all pre-university institutions and is used as support material for optional classes. 3.3.7. research and education The Institute of Science of Education has elabo- Scientific research in the sphere of conservation rated Curriculum for the optional discipline “Eco- of biological diversity is performed by the Acad- logical education and environmental protection” emy of Science of Moldova through its affiliated for all education levels. institutions: Botanical Garden (institute), Institute Non-formal and informal education. The Min- of Zoology, Institute of Microbiology, and th Insti- istry of Education and Youth supports state initia- tute of Ecology and Geography. At the same time tives of state institutions and NGOs on the organi- research in this field are performed by State Uni- zation and implementation of special activities in versity of Moldova (faculty of ecology, botany, and the field such as drawing competitions, interactive pedology), University of Tiraspol (faculty of biol- 40 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY games, debates, information campaigns, ecological destroyed. Still, official data indicates a decrease of hours on issues, bi-monthly ecological activities of illicit cutting in recent years. community interest (cleaning of rivers, planting of Forest extension. It is necessary to increase the green spaces, arrangements of parks, wells, etc). proportion of forest zones, especially to dimin- Beginning in 1995 students, academic faculty ish the phenomena of erosion and prevention of and scientists have been working together on en- washout of nutrients from agricultural lands. Re- vironmental studies in frames of GLOBE program sources available for planting forests are limited, with a Cooperation agreement signed between the sometimes it is difficult to obtain agreement of lo- Government of RM and US Government. cal authorities for planting of new forest on their During 2007-2008 all pre-university institutions lands. A large number of private animals destroy organized 4 thematic hours of ecological topics re- seedling plants while pasturing. At the same time lated to conservation of biological diversity of flora it the use of domestic species is recommended in- and fauna and environmental protection. stead of introducing new ones in the process of Although Economic Growth and Poverty Re- forest extension. duction Strategy (EGPRS) stipulated the prepara- Natural state protected areas are mostly afforest- tion of a national strategy on ecological education ed zones and are managed by “Moldsilva.” Lack of in 2005-2006, it still hasn’t been approved. Strate- state budget financial resources prevent creation, gies in the field of education unfortunately do not regeneration and protection of forest, including include provisions relating to biological diversity protected areas. “Moldsilva” cannot provide sus- and conservation though CBD includes integra- tainable management of forest resources in current tion of biodiversity in the educational system in all financing conditions. Supervision and inspection countries of the Convention. possibilities are very limited. Penalties for illicit cutting are small and the largest share of them isn’t collected. 3.4. Conclusions and recommendations on integration of bio- Main objectives for the solution of problems logical diversity issues at sectoral in the forestry sector can be: level. zzimprovement of management for existing In the framework of this report analyzed cross- forests; zz sectoral and sectoral strategies and programs. It is conservation of forest’s biodiversity; zz necessary to mention that there is little transparent extension of afforested zones; zz official data on monitoring of application of these improvement of forest protection; zz programs and their outcomes. Even if some aspects integration of forest management in other related to biological diversity are included in the sectors. document, such as forestry of agriculture, it is difficult to evaluate their implementation due to lack Creation of national ecological network (NEN) of clear system on monitoring and reporting. is currently at its concept state and presently there The following are presented as recommenda- isn’t any available source of financing. NEN is still tions regarding integration of aspects of biological a concept though creation of which can extend the diversity in some sectors of the economy. existing forest zones for creation of a more coherent In forestry network of natural areas. In this case it is necessary Forest ecosystems of Moldova are constantly to identify the zones at critical stage of degradation under high anthropogenic pressure. Current ef- and establish administration practice for land. forts on extension of forest surface are important It is necessary to introduce legal and organiza- because of their contribution to land and soil pro- tional measures for forest protection from atmos- tection, to prevention of diffuse pollution and bio- pheric pollution or fires. Fulfillment of this objec- diversity protection. tive requires an elaborate monitoring system of High prices on energy sources along with low forests and their evolution. income of large portion of the population are the For improvement of forest management it is main reasons for illicit cutting of forest for fire- necessary to divide responsibilities depending on wood. Due to this situation as well as due to pri- exploitation of forests. Forest management plans vatization consequences, anti-sliding forest bands are not the subject of ecological expertise or a pro- have suffered considerably and were practically cedure of environmental impact assessment. In 41 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III cases when environmental authorities are involved Land irrigation and draining. Presently irriga- in approval of forest management plans the bal- tion is no longer the significant issue for the en- ance between forest protection and exploitation vironment because it doesn’t impose strong pres- can be more unbiased. sure upon available aquatic resources. It is probable In agriculture that lands subject to irrigation will extend in the Policy in the field of agriculture and rural de- future and as a result will cause the appearance of velopment is not always well coordinated with en- problems at the level of water and soil resources. vironmental policy. In the current economic situa- The creation of national parks will contribute to tion it is difficult to include complex environmen- responsible use of water and soil resources of the tal protection programs in the agricultural sector. country. Planned re-assessment of agricultural subsidies must take possible negative effects on biodiversity In the framework of phyto-sanitary control the into consideration. There is a clear understanding following priorities are suggested: of soil protection, being the only real natural re- zzimprovement and introduction of legal source of the country. With all this major efforts framework regarding regulation of circula- are taken in order to minimize the negative impact tion on the market of plants and plant prod- of agriculture upon the environment. ucts (some draft normative acts were already elaborated and currently are at the stage of The following measures are considered to fa- concordance); cilitate environmental considerations in agricul- zzimplementation of preventive practice and of ture: conservation of phyto-sanitary purity in the zzdevelopment of services on agricultural con- Republic of Moldova; sultancy; zzorganization of training of phyto-sanitary zzprojects on decrease of diffuse pollution from customs and territorial inspectors; agriculture; zzimprovement of methods and diagnostics zzpromotion of ecological agriculture; equipment, etc. zzpromotion of best agricultural practice. Identification of agricultural lands of high nat- Land consolidation for protection of biological ural value requires monitoring of biocenotic oa- diversity shall be organized based on a special study sis from agrocenoces and elaboration of efficient performed with logistical assistance from scientific mechanisms of sequestration of unprocessed pri- institutions across the country. It is necessary to de- vate lands that are unproductive and in danger of velop consulting system on opportunities of land sliding. Such mechanisms can contribute to the consolidation through afforestation and social ben- creation of new pastures and forages, to recon- efits that can be obtained through reestablishment struction of lands and reestablishment of tumble- of land and biological resources. It is necessary to weeds of different types and creation of a system of include biological conservation requirements in planning as well as practice of populous involve- documents on territorial arrangement. ment in execution of such works. Anti-sliding protection is another measure nec- In rural development, science and education essary from an ecological point of view. It is con- Local authorities are not always well informed sidered that combating of sliding is possible only regarding current legal acts and programs, mak- through common efforts of all state institutions ing it very important to initiate a dialogue with through systematic monitoring of evolution of this the population regarding land administration and process and creation of common digital maps for territorial arrangement. An important objective of territorial arrangements. Elaboration of unified In- consultancy services is the promotion of positive formational Geographic System represents an im- agricultural practice that contributes to a decrease portant step for better planning and cooperation. of soil degradation, or safe and more efficient use Two categories of lands require special atten- of pesticides and fertilizers. In order to succeed it is tion: pastures affiliated with local authorities and necessary to have a solid scientific basis, education- water protection zones. Drafts of two legal acts on al capacity, and adequate funding. Applied scien- improvement of land management, the Law on soil tific research in agriculture requires improvement. protection and the Regulation on pasturing and Best agricultural practices must be in the center of mowing were elaborated but not yet applied. consultancy service. It is necessary to support the 42 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY positive tendency of MENR to provide financial Public awareness activities necessary to sup- support in the future for the solution of issues report forest protection and guard workers can be lated to land consolidation, especially on the initia- the following: tive of local authorities. zzinforming the public about sustainable devel- In rural areas it is necessary to increase the opment in the field of forest plantation and forest zones, especially for diminishing of land- forest band, about the actual state of biodiver- sliding phenomena and to prevent the wash out sity and cease of soil degradation, ensuring of nutrients from agricultural lands. Forest surface free access to information and participation that remained unchanged during 1990s entered in decision-making; an increasing trend after year 2000. It is a positive zzinforming the public about responsible use of trend, but its present process is meeting difficulties. natural resources; Resources available for planting of primary forest zzinforming relevant persons regarding proce- are small, and sometimes it is difficult to obtain an dures to take some valuable and representa- LPA agreement to plant their lands. tive ecosystems under protection; Efficient conservation of biological diversity is zzpromotion of programs of cooperation in the impossible without profound research of legisla- field of planning sectors for recreation, and tion and mechanisms applied at genetic, species, liquidation of consequences of natural disas- ecosystems and habitat levels. In this context the ters; recommendations include continuously develop- zzelaboration and implementation of programs ment of fundamental and applied research, provi- and promotional materials for increase of sion of modern scientific equipment, preparation public ecological, agrarian and forestry of highly qualified staff, increase of contribution of knowledge, creation of a favorable image for innovation and technologic transfer for the devel- activities on conservation of biological diver- opment of branches of the national economy, in- sity for next generations; cluding conservation of biological diversity. zzediting of didactic materials that reflect spe- cifics of conservation of biological diversity and include in the general education program several obligatory topics in the ecologic, forestry profile, involvement of population, and especially children and students in the work of planting forest bands and natural ecosystems with the purpose to teach ecological spirit to the next generations.

An autumn landscape of forestry ecosystems in the “Codri“ scientific reservation. (photo by dr. St. Manic)

43 Thematic inclusion on biological diversity at sectoral and 2 intersectoral levels Chapter III Chapter IV

Results of implementation of objectives stipulated for 2010 and their inclusion in strategic plans of Convention

he main goals and objectives in the field of amendment of existing legal acts such as Law on conservation of biodiversity planned for Animal Kingdom nr. 439 from 27.04.95 and Law 2010T were included in National strategy and action on state protected natural areas fund nr. 1538-XIII plan in the field of conservation of biodiversity. from 25.02.98. At the same time different programs With all this in the framework of this document of conservation of biodiversity were elaborated, modifications requested by Decision of COP CBD and actions were organized on public awareness in were introduced after approval by the Parliament this field. of RM. Modification of BDCNSAP, adopted by the The Republic of Moldova has implemented the Parliament of RM in 2008 stipulates postponement requirements of Resolution VII/8, (COP 7 2004) of execution of BDCNSAP and Convention pro- and Resolution VIII/15 (COP 8, 2006), which re- grams (due to lack of financial resources necessary quired elaboration of a set of national indicators for implementation). of biodiversity from all member states in order to For fulfillment of objectives and goals stipulated fulfill the objectives of Global Strategy on Plant in Convention and in BDCNSAP different activi- protection and Goal for the year 2010. ties were implemented regarding the improvement Regarding objectives and goals in the field of of legal and institutional framework such as elabo- conservation of biological diversity at the local ration of some legal documents: Law nr. 265 – XVI level it is necessary to mention the similarities with from 28.07.06 regarding use of animals in scientific goals of Global Strategy on Plant Protection and purposes and other experimental purposes; Law Goal for year 2010 as well as other goals and objec- nr. 149-XVI from 8.06.06 regarding piscicultural tives divided by spheres and included in BDCN- fund, fishing and pisciculture; Law nr. 94 - XVI SAP along with other sectoral and cross-sectoral from 5.04 .07 regarding ecological network; Law nr. programs and strategies such as EGPRS, national –XVI from 14.06.07 regarding zoological gardens action plan on combating of desertification in RM, (with modifications and amendments from 2005, Strategy of sustainable development of forest sec- 2007, 2008); Law on Plant Kingdom nr. 239– XVI tor of RM, etc (Table 1). from 8.11.07; Law nr.325-XVI from 15.12.2005 on The following efforts regarding achievement of the Red Book of RM as well as modification and goals and objectives for year 2010 were made:

zzProtected area fund was extended to 4.65% of state territory (three wetlands of international significance in the territory of RM were included in protected areas fund, which will contribute considerably to the increase of biological conservation); Some progress in the field of conservation of biological diversity performed by “Moldsilva” is the development of legal framework and extension of activities of planting of forests. However there are several shortcomings in the implementation of objectives for year 2010. Among the following can be mentioned: zzfinancing of activities on conservation of biological diversity is insufficient;

44 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY zzscientific research, monitoring of biodiversity, staff training according to current zz requirements is being performed with limited resources; zznatural state protected area management is at an unsatisfactory level because LPA and economic operators do not respect the requirement of legislation and regulations in the field; zzlimited funding, cooperation, and coordination of different activities is at its initiation stage; weak integration of biological conservation requirements in some sector programs (agriculture, rural development, etc.).

Dediţel mare - ???????????????? (Pulsatilla grandis) – a vulnerable species.

In the scientific reservation „Padurea domneasca” the wild boar population is in growth. 45 Results of implementation of objectives stipulated for 2010 and their inclusion in strategic plans of Convention Chapter IV Conclusions

1. Objectives of the Convention of Biological Diversity are well known in the country. For implementation of the first two objectives (conservation of biological diversity and sustainable use of biological resources) certain efforts are being taken by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, central public authorities, Academy of Science of Moldova, local authorities, and NGOs. Less attention is paid to implementation of the third objective – fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. Regarding the goal and objectives for year 2010, they are known only to a limited number of specialists in the field;

2. Legal and institutional framework in the field of conservation of biodiversity in RM has been developed during recent years and complies with the current requirements, but implementation of legal provisions is weak;

3. Integration of requirements on conservation of biological diversity in sectors of the economy is at its initial state. It is necessary to mention that the forest sector respects (with some exceptions) requirements on conservation of biological diversity. In other sectors this part of nature is given less priority;

4. Biological diversity of the Republic of Moldova is vast at all levels – genetic, population and species, however such biodiversity cannot provide stability of natural ecosystems due to its vulnerability to anthropogenic factors (agriculture, silviculture, invasive species);

5. During the period of 2000-2008 the decline of plant species’ population from spontaneous flora and wild animals species continued, which lead to an increase of the number of endangered species;

6. Fund of state protected natural areas has been extended, yet measures for observance of legislation in this sphere are still necessary;

7. Works on ecological reestablishment are being performed at limited volume;

8. Level of scientific research in the sphere of conservation of biological diversity has increased considerably according to both quantitative and qualita- tive indicators, however the supply of scientific research units with equipment is limited;

9. Biological management is performed only on scientific reservation. Some works on establishment of “zero level” in some protected areas has started;

46 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY 10. Possible impact of climate changes upon flora and fauna of RM has been evaluated, however measures for increase of adaptability haven’t been taken.

11. Limited financial allocations and weak participation of national and international organizations in activities related to conservation of biological diversity in some cases impede implementation of BDCNSAPD.

Crinul-de-pădure ????????? (Lilium Martagon), a species rare encountered in the forests of Moldova.

A general vew of the “codry” in central zone of the Republic of Moldova.

47 Conclusions Table 1. Global goals and targets set for year 2010 and national relevant targets

Indicators used in Mol- Global goals and targets 2010 National relevant goals and targets dova Protection of biodiversity components Goal 1. Promote the conservation of the biological diversity of ecosystems, habitats and biomes Target 1.1. At least ten percent of Figure included in BDCNSAP, EGPRS is 2.4%. Total surface of ecosystem; each of the world’s ecological re- Currently state protected areas scale 4.65% of the surface of ecosystem gions effectively conserved total territory of the country. from the respective zone; the protected surface of

the respective ecosystem. In the same order the biological diversity is reflected, specifying the endangered species. Target 1.2. Areas of particular im- Stipulated in BDCNSAP and other programs Total surface of the area; portance to biodiversity protect- and strategies, such as The National Action Pro- surface of the protected ed. gram on Combating the Desertification (NAP- area; presence of separated CD) or Strategy on Sustainable Development of administration for the pro- the Forest Sector. Respective areas are: Inferior tected area; attribution of Prut, Lower Nistru, Central Codrii. the respective protection category according to IUCN requirements; presence of management plans; realization of the requirements of management plans. Goal 2. Promote the conservation of species diversity Target 2.1. Restore, maintain, or BDCNSAP provides protection measures for Binary name of species; reduce the decline of populations plant and animal endangered species at a na- statute according to IUCN of species of selected taxonomic tional and regional level. requirements; spreading; groups habitat; quantitative aspect The list on plant and animal species of inter- of populations; limitative national and national importance that require factors; state and measures prior protection has been elaborated. of protection. According to Law on state protected areas (1998) the natural state protected areas fund assures in-situ protection for about 250 plant species, including 224 species of superior plants, 9 species of mussels and 17 species of lichen. At the same time 169 animal species, including 89 mammal species, 9 species of reptile, 4 species of amphibians 1 species of cyclostoma- tous, 15 species of fish, 1 species of crustacee, 3 species of mollusks, 1 species of polichen, 34 species of insects are taken under state protection. Target 2.2. Status of endangered BDCNSAP, SSDFS and PNACD stipulate con- Binary name of species; species improved servation of vulnerable species. The Second protection statute; spread- Edition of the Red Book of the Republic of Mol- ing; habitat; quantitative dova stipulates the protection of about 116 aspect of populations; animal and 126 endangered and endangered limitative factors; state and plant species. For these species there are pro- measures of protection. tection measures established.

48 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Goal 3. Promote the conservation of genetic diversity Target 3.1. Genetic diversity of Targets for genetic diversity conservation were For spontaneous species: crops, livestock, and of harvested included in BDCNSAP, in chapters related to in- name of species; studied species of trees, fish and wildlife situ and ex-situ protection of species. population; the abundance and other valuable species con- of population; the structure In the field of agriculture the National target served, and associated indigenous of population (genus, age). foresees the conservation of species and au- and local knowledge maintained tochthonous varieties and the ameliorated For genetic collections of ones used in agriculture. A series of documents agricultural cultures: spe- related to forest management describes the cies; population carrying a goals for genetic diversity conservation; in par- gene; description of gene; ticular concerning the trees selected as genetic place of location of this sources. specie. Promotion of sustainable use Goal 4. Promote sustainable use and consumption. Target 4.1. Biodiversity-based prod- The national target is established in conformity List of criteria and indica- ucts derived from sources that are with global target for forest, steppe, meadow, tors of sustainable use of sustainably managed, and produc- aquatic and paludous ecosystems and petro- forests is elaborated and tion areas managed consistent with phyte ecosystems (BDCNSAP, SSDFS) approved by Governmental the conservation of biodiversity Decision

Target 4.2. Reduction of unsus- Is included in BDCNAP and other acts in the Law on animal kingdom tainable consumption of biological field. Currently legal acts such as Law on soil, (1995); Law on Plant king- resources or those that impact bio- Law on zootechny, and Regulation on pastur- dom (2007). diversity ing and mowing are at stage of elaboration

Target 4.3. No species of wild flora BDCNSAP stipulates the requirements for pro- Number of permits/certifi- or fauna endangered by interna- tection of species. By Law nr.1246-XIV of 28 cates and elaborated envi- tional trade. September 2000 the Convention on the pre- ronmental agreements. vention of illegal trade in endangered species Number of species and of plants and animals (CITES) was ratified. Also quantity of imported/ex- elaborated is the Regulation on authorization ported plants. of export and import activities of plants and animals from wild flora and fauna, their parts and derivatives, as well as the import/export and re-export of flora and fauna species. At the same the following were elaborated and adopted: Law on animal kingdom (2007) and modified Law on Animal kingdom (2005, 2007,2008), Forest Code (1996), which stipulate protection of wild flora and fauna species through regulation of their trade. Liquidation of factors which prejudice biodiversity Goal 5. Reduction of pressure from habitat loss, land use change and degradation, and unsustainable water use Target 5.1. Rate of loss and deg- BDCNSAP provides actions for stopping degra- Extension of protected radation of natural habitats de- dation of existent natural ecosystems and ini- area of steppe and mead- creased tiation of processes for ecological restoration ow, creation of national of habitats most important for biodiversity. parks “Orhei” and “Codrii Tigheciului.”

49 Conclusions Goal 6. Control threats from invasive alien species. Target 6.1. Pathways for major po- BDCNSAP and SSDFS include measures to The surfaces of natural eco- tential alien invasive species con- watch the ways alien and invasive species pen- systems affected by inva- trol etrate. The project on combating invasive spe- sive alien species, the sur- cies and ecological reconstruction of meadow faces of restored ecological forests from scientific reservation “Pădurea ecosystems Domnească.”

Target 6.2. Management plans in Global goal is reflected in NDCNSAP. The pro- Total number of invasive place for major alien species that gram for combating of Acer negundo species species; surface affected by threaten ecosystems, habitats or in forest ecosystems was elaborated. Annual these species; applied mea- species plans exist for American Maple extraction from sures. the natural forest ecosystems.

Goal 7. Address challenges to biodiversity from climate change and pollution. Target 7.1. Maintain and enhance Impact of climate change was evaluated, some Indicators are reflected in resilience of the components of measures were taken – afforestation of degrad- action plan on diminishing biodiversity to adapt to climate ed lands; capacities of plant and natural ecosys- impact of climate changes. change tem adaptation are being evaluated; only some measures for maintenance of resilience of components of biodiversity – stopping assessment of meadows of small rivers and renewal of affected natural ecosystems. Target 7.2. Reduce pollution and its There are objectives established in National Indicators are reflected in impacts on biodiversity strategy on reduction and elimination of POPs the National implemen- in RM and NIP of Stockholm Convention on tation plan of Stockholm POP. Convention.

Maintenance of products and services provided by biodiversity with the goal of support in increase of population’s welfare. Goal 8. Maintain capacity of ecosystems to deliver goods and services and support livelihoods. Target 8.1. Capacity maintained of Objectives included in NDCNSAP and in Strat- Functional structure of for- ecosystems to deliver goods and egy of sustainable development of the forest ests; conservation of ge- services sector in the Republic of Moldova specifies netic fund, protection of obtaining of products of vegetal origin, pro- lands, water protection

tection of courses of water reservoirs. National strategy of agricultural and food industry sector development for the period of 2006-2015 stipulates promotion of obtaining of ecological products.

50 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Target 8.2. Biological resources Objective is stipulated in NDCNSAP: protection Number of species used, maintained that support sustain- of natural forest resources, cynegetic resources, volume of collected prod- able livelihoods, local food secu- piscicol resources, genetic resources, resources ucts. rity and health care, especially of of medicinal plants from spontaneous flora, people in poverty resources of agricultural plants and domestic animals.

Protection of traditional knowledge, innovation and practice Goal 9. Maintain socio-cultural diversity of indigenous and local communities. Target 9.1. Protect traditional knowl- Global objective is reflected in NDCNSAP and edge, innovations and practices other sector strategies for development of agriculture. Protection of traditional knowledge, innovation and practices are assured in traditional agriculture of RM. The Nut Law was elaborated; the Program of viticulture restoration for the years 2002 – 2020 is being implemented.

Target 9.2. Protect the rights of in- The right of common use of benefits offered by digenous and local communities over forest ecosystems is stipulated in “Forest Code” their traditional knowledge, innova- – firewood, recreation, mushroom and medici- tions and practices, including their nal plant gathering. rights to benefit sharing

Ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources. Goal 10. Ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources. Goal 10.1. All transfers of genetic Law nr. 39 from 29.02.08 regarding protection The Republic of Moldova is resources are in line with the Con- of plant seeds creates legal framework neces- member of FAO. MAFI is re- vention on Biological Diversity, sary for application of International conven- sponsible for executing re- the International Treaty on Plant tions for protection of plant seeds, agreements quirements regarding fair Genetic Resources for Food and on commercial aspects of intellectual property use of genetic resources of Agriculture and other applicable rights. Law nr.293-XIII from 23.11.94 regarding plants and animals. agreements copyright and Law nr. 412 from 27.05.99 regarding zootechny of the Republic of Moldova – animal’s complement, banks of genes, genes.

Target 10.2. Benefits arising from Fair use of benefits arising from the commer- the commercial and other utiliza- cial use of genetic resources is regulated action of genetic resources shared cording to Law nr. 39 dated 29.02.08 regarding with the countries providing such protection of plant seeds and Law nr. 412 from resources according to the Conven- 27.05.99 regarding zootechny tion on Biological diversity and related regulations.

51 Conclusions Provision of adequate services Goal 11. Parties have improved financial, human, scientific, technical and technological capacity to implement the Convention. Target 11.1. New and additional The Republic of Moldova has benefited from fi- financial resources are transferred nancial support from GEF, the Governments of to developing country Parties, to the Netherlands, Denmark, Federated Republic allow for the effective implemen- of Germany, and Japan in the process of imple- tation of their commitments under mentation of CBD in a total amount of $2500 the Convention, in accordance with thousand USD. Article 20 NDCNSAP stipulate attraction of financial resources from donors in amount of $5799 thousand USD, including protection of forest ecosystems – $1734 thousand USD, and protection of steppe ecosystems – $1197 thousand USD. Target 11.2. Technology is trans- Technologies of use to eolic energy, of purifica- ferred to developing country Par- tion of waste water were transferred to Repub- ties, to allow for the effective imple- lic of Moldova, the use of which reduce impact mentation of their commitments on biodiversity. under the Convention, in accordance with Article 20, paragraph 4

The General Plan of the Botanical Garden(Institut) of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Moldova.

52 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Annex I. Country data and the details on the origin of present report

A. Republic of Moldova

Contracting Party The Republic of Moldova

National Focal Point

Full name of the institution: Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resource of the Republic of Moldova

Name and title of contact officer: Alexandru Apostol, deputy-chief of State Ecological Inspectorate

Mailing address: 9 Cosmonauţilor Str., MD 2005, Chişinău, Republic of Moldova

Telephone: (+373 22) 204-510

Fax: (+373 22) 22 69 15

E-mail: [email protected]

Contact officer for national report IV (if different)

Full name of the institution: Biodiversity Office. Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources

Name and title of contact officer: Alexandru Teleuţă, manager of the Biodiversity Office

Mailing address: 9 Cosmonauţilor Str. of 707, MD 2005, Chişinău, Republic of Moldova

Telephone: (+373 22) 24 20 22

Fax: (+373 22) 24 20 22

E-mail: [email protected]

Submission of report

Signature of officer responsible for submitting national report:

Date of submission:

53 Annexes Annex II. Information regarding process of elaboration of present report

he Fourth National Report on Biological PhD. Andrei Munteanu, chief of the synthesis Diversity in the Republic of Moldova has group; Institute of Zoology, ASM beenT elaborated by the Biodiversity Office of the PhD Gheorghe Postolache, local expert, Botani- Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources with cal Garden (Institute) ASM financial support of United Nations Development Mihai Coca, local expert, Ministry of Ecology Program. and Natural Resources The experts from Academy of Science of Moldo- Valentina Căldăruşi, local expert, Ministry of va (Botanical Garden, Institute of Zoology, Institute Ecology and Natural Resources of Ecology and Geography, Institute of Genetics), PhD. Iachim Gumaniuc, local expert, State State University of Moldova, Ministry of Ecology Agrarian University of Moldova and Natural Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and PhD Alexei Andreev local expert, NGO “Biot- Food Industry, State Agency for Forestry “Moldsil- ica” va”, non-governmental organizations (Ecospectru, Alexandru Rotaru, local expert, Biodiversity of- Ecological Movement of Moldova, REC-Moldova, fice Ecomedia, Ecotera, Biodiversity Protection, “Natu- Ion Cotofana, local expert, NGO “Ecospectru” ra” newspaper, NGO Biotica) have contributed in Liliana Josan, synthesis of information, NGO the process of elaboration of National Report IV. “Biotica” The main specialists involved in the process of Alexandru Galupa, local expert, Institute of For- elaboration of the National Report are as follows: est Research and Arrangements. PhD. Alexandru Teleuta, project manager, generalization of the information, Botanical Garden (Institute) ASM.

54 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Annex III. Results of achievement of objectives in the context of Global Strategy for Plant Conservation.

n the Republic of Moldova the objective of materials will be used for a new edition of Europe- Global Strategy for Plant Conservation are an Strategy on Plant Conservation (2008-2014). implementedI according objectives of NDCNSAP Among major obstacles for achievement of and SDDSF. progress in fulfillment of the present task are a lack of financial and logistical resources, including Target 1. A widely accessible working list means and software programs to compile a data- of known plant species, as a step towards a base on taxonomic inventory of flora in RM. complete world flora. National Strategy and Action Plan in the field Target 2. A preliminary assessment of the of biological diversity conservation stipulates the conservation status of all known plant spe- protection measures for vegetal world. The data- cies, at national, regional and international base http://[email protected] reflects the total list of levels. plant and animal species from the territory of the Scientific institutions of the Academy of Science Republic of Moldova. The Botanical Institute and of Moldova are conducting research in scientific (Academy of Science of Moldova) performed re- and natural reserves towards the conservation of search on composition of spontaneous flora of RM plant species. Thus the taxonomic composition of and have initiated the works in the edition of series spontaneous flora has been determined and pub- of books on “Flora of RM” containing 6 volumes. lished as “Determinant of spontaneous plants of During the period of 2005-2008 the Ministry Moldova” (2007). of Ecology and Natural Resources in common BDCNSAP stipulates measures for protection with the Academy of Science of the Republic of of plants known at national and regional level. Moldova and “Stiinta” Publishing House published The list of plant and animal species of national four volumes from the series “Vegetable World of and international importance that need prioritized Moldova”; the first volume being “Mushrooms. protection has been developed. In this list plant and Plants without flowers,” and second “Plants with animal species are included that are protected also flowers –I,” third - “Plants with flowers –II,” and by the Convention on the conservation of wild flo- fourth - “Plants with flowers –III.” ra and fauna and their habitats (Berna, 1979), Con- Botanical Institute of ASM published the mono- vention on the Conservation of Migratory Species graph “Medicinal Plants” which includes a descrip- of Wild Animals (Bonn, 1979) and Convention on tion of widely spread medicinal plants from spon- the prevention of illegal trade in endangered spe- taneous flora of Moldova. cies of plants and animals (CITES, Washington, Legal measures for achievement of the target 1973), but at the national level – the endangered are: adoption of Law nr. 1538 – XIII of 25 Febru- species and those included in the Red Book of the ary 1998 on State Protected Natural Areas Fund Republic of Moldova. provides protection for 269 rare floristic species in The Red Book of the Republic of Moldova (sec- accordance with IUCN classification. The Law on ond edition from 2001) includes 117 plant species, vegetal kingdom nr. 239-XVI dated 8.11.2007 was and 9 mushroom species. From the total number adopted. of endangered species, 48 species are characteristic The research program of flora and calendar of for forest ecosystems, 32 for steppe ecosystems, 19 publishing of series « Flora of RM» composed of for petrophyte ecosystems, 18 for meadow ecosys- 6 volumes is used as indicators for monitoring of tems and 4 for aquatic and paludous ecosystems. progress made towards the target. Accumulated Some of plant species living on the territory of the 55 Annexes Republic of Moldova are included in the European Target 5. Protection of fifty percent of the Red List: Maidenchock (Cypripedium calceolus most important areas for plant diversity as- L.), and Water chesnut (Trapa natans). sured. According to Law nr. 1538 – XIII of 25 February The level of protection of existing natural eco- 1998 on State Protected Natural Areas Fund, about systems in Moldova represents the following: forest 269 rare floristic species, delimited according to – 18.8%; steppe and meadow – 0.40%; meadows – the IUCN classification, have been taken under 19.6%; aquatic and paludous ecosystems – 2.1%. protection. The total surface of forests in the Republic of Moldova is 362.8 thousand ha, from which natural Target 3. Development of models with forests occupy a surface of 175,000 ha or almost protocols for plant conservation and sustain- 42% of precious sectors, which need to be taken able use, based on research and practical under the state protection. experience. Characteristic for the national network of pro- This target is reflected in the Law on Plant king- tected areas is the fact that 89.5% of its total sur- dom nr. 239-XVI from 08.11.2007, which estab- face, respectively 59,495 ha, is situated in the forest lishes legal framework in the field of conservation, sector, representing 18.8% of the total surface of protection and the use of objects of vegetal king- the national forest fund. dom as well as duties of public authorities and sci- BDCNSAP and the First National Report on entific institutions in the sphere. Botanical Garden Biological Diversity stipulate an increase of the for- (Institute) of ASM has elaborated new modes and est surfaces from 9.6% to 15%, steppe ecosystems procedures for more efficient protection of plants from 1.92% to 2.5%, meadow ecosystems from from state protected natural areas and valuable 3.0% to 3.52%, and aquatic and paludous ecosys- natural ecosystems. tems - from 2.8% to 3.3%. There are measures undertaken for the exten- Target 4. At least ten percent of each of sion of natural areas protected by the state in steppe the world’s ecological regions effectively and meadow ecosystems. conserved. At the same time measures are undertaken for BDCNSAP stipulates the extension of the net- extension of forest surface, which during the peri- work of natural areas protected by the state up to od of 2002-2008 has been extended by 60,000 ha. 2.36% out of the total territory of the country (80 thousand ha) that can assure the protection of 50% Target 6. At least thirty percent of produc- from the total of species reflecting the taxonomic tion lands managed consistent with the con- diversity of the structure of biological systems. At servation of plant diversity. present 4.65% of country’s territory consists of pro- As a national objective this target is not stipulat- tected areas, the extent of which was possible due ed, however in the Republic of Moldova there are to the addition of 3 wetlands of international sig- measures being undertaken for implementation nificance. At the same time the creation of the first of biological agriculture methods and integrated national park in Moldova is planned in the next 3 technologies, including withdrawing of degraded years, which will lead to an increase of the system fields from the agricultural circuit and ameliora- of natural protected areas with about 20,000 ha. tion. Alteration is being practiced of annual and According to the Law nr. 1538 – XIII of 25 Feb- perennial crops, weeding and non-weeding crops, ruary 1998 on State Protected Natural Areas Fund, and grained crops with beans, etc. the fund of natural areas protected by state, delim- BDCNSAP stipulates actions to stop agricul- ited according to the IUCN classification, includes tural field extension, increase the mosaic of agri- 5 scientific reserves with a surface of 19,378 ha, 130 cultural ecosystems by practicing mixed crops, ap- monuments of nature with a surface of 2906.8 ha, plication of optimal ecologic alternation of annual 63 natural reserves with a surface of 8,009 ha, 41 and perennial crops, creation of biocenotic oases landscape reserves with a surface of 34,200 ha, 13 and forest bands for protection. resource reserves with a surface of 523 ha, 32 areas By practicing crop rotation, the introduction of with multifunctional management with a surface some untraditional agricultural crops created live of 1030.4 ha and 3 wetlands of international sig- conditions for diverse taxonomic groups of wild nificance with total surface of 90,750.8 ha. animals – about 109 species. In agrocoenoses rodents prevail, and have adapted well, with enough 56 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY food and effective increasing. Numerous birds are ducing certification and providing with nec- nestling in open fields. essary funds; Work has begun on ecological resoil of some zzoptimization of institutional capacity of culti- abandoned quarries, of elimination of unused ag- vated plant banks of genes; ricultural objects, etc. Forest surface has increased zzconservation of species in botanical and zoo- by 60,000 ha. Obstacles: unstable policy regarding logical gardens, assurance of their survival use of agricultural lands: initial tendency on parce- and reproduction in natural ecosystems, es- ling, and tendency on consolidation of agricultural pecially, of rare and endangered species. lands. Currently evaluation and ex-situ conservation Target 7. Sixty percent of the world’s en- of species of plants and animals is done by Botani- dangered species conserved In-situ. cal Garden (institute) of ASM and other affiliated In-situ conservation of plant species is stipulat- institutions. Collection of Botanical Garden (insti- ed in BDCNSAP. The vegetal world of the Republic tute) of ASM includes approximately 10,000 tax- of Moldova includes 5,513 plant species. From the ons, including 150 rare species from natural eco- total number of 250 endangered species in The Red systems of RM. Book of the Republic of Moldova (2002) 117 plant Collection of agricultural plants is composed of species and 9 mushrooms species were included. about 70 thousand seeds, hybrids, lines and local From the total number of endangered species, 46 forms. National collection of microorganisms is species are characteristic for forest ecosystems, composed of 500 taxon-bacteria, mushrooms and 31 – for steppe ecosystems, 18 – for petrophyte algae. ecosystems, 18 – for meadow ecosystems and 4 for Obstacles: Limited financial support for collec- aquatic and paludous ecosystems. tion, maintenance and research in the field of rare The state of vulnerable and endangered plant plants in ex-situ collections. populations is in continuous decline. Scores of plant species growing on the territory of the Re- Target 9. Seventy percent of the genetic public of Moldova are becoming more and more diversity of crops and other major socio-eco- endangered and require state protection. Also, nomically valuable plant species conserved, there are irreversible phenomena of degradation of and associated indigenous and local knowl- genetic variety at the level of species and popula- edge maintained. tion that leads to total disappearance of some taxo- BDCNSAP stipulates conservation of the ge- nomic forms from habitats. netic fund. Conservation of genetic variety is made In BDCNSAP there is a list of species of inter- possible trough two ways: in-situ and ex-situ. Con- national and national importance that need priori- servation of genetic resources of cultivable plants tized protection. The Republic of Moldova lacks and domestic animals is the objective of the re- state cadastre on vegetal kingdom, and the collec- spective sectoral institutions (species collections, tion of plants from natural ecosystems is poorly sorts, forms, races etc.). Population in individual monitored. agricultural farms realizes conservation of local genetic resources. Local forms of beans, corn, sun- Target 8. Sixty percent of endangered flower, grapes and fruit trees resistant to negative plant species in accessible Ex-situ collections, biotic and abiotic factors are preferable. Normally, preferably in the country of origin, and 10 this process is passive and some forms are lost. percent included in recovery and restoration Center of Vegetal Resources performs its activity programs. in the framework of the Institute of Genetics and BDCNSAP stipulates ex-situ conservation of Physiology of Plants of ASM, and its duties include biodiversity outside of their natural habitats, in- collection and storage of seeds of different culture’s cluding museum collections. species. It was revealed that 43 species of spontaneous Prioritized measures taken are: flora represent close relatives of plants cultivated zzregistering and evaluating cultivated plants, in the country. domestic animals and microorganisms, pro-

57 Annexes Target 10. Management plans in place for of flora and fauna species, and according to current at least 100 major alien species that threaten procedures and norms for customs, veterinary and plants, plant communities and associated phyto-sanitary control. habitats and ecosystems. BDCNSAP describes alien invasive species. Target 12. Thirty percent of plant-based The presence of invasive species in the natural products derived from sources that are sus- ecosystems indicates the tendency of synantro- tainably managed. pisation of the flora of the Republic of Moldova. Increase of plant-based products derived from Intense human activity provoked the invasion of sources that are sustainably managed is reflected in synantropic species in agricultural ecosystems BDCNSAP. At the same time cultivation of grains, and in degraded natural ecosystems, which slows viticulture and fruit-farming widely applies ad- down the processes of natural development and vance technologies, which include components of restoration of natural biocenoses. Synantrope flora ecologic agriculture with sustainable management. consists of 3 main groups: ruderal, segetal and ad- The Strategy on Sustainable Development of the ventive. The specific diversity of these groups con- Forest Sector in the Republic of Moldova (SSDFS) sists of about 463 species. Weeds – plants with an provides for the obtaining of products of vegetal aggressive character – constitute 114 species. The origin. group of quarantine species (11 species) affects, Subordinated institutions of the Central author- especially, the natural terrestrial ecosystems, pas- ity for forestry process 25,000 m3 per year, or 7% of tures, and degraded and agricultural ecosystems. the total timber mass gathered in forests of the Re- The American Maple (Acer negundo) presents a public of Moldova. The variety of timber products considerable threat for forest ecosystems. are limited to parquet, technologic matchwood, In the Republic of Moldova there is no national planking, charcoal, barrels, pliers and other similar policy concerning alien invasive species, and the objects that can not bring essential profit for the eventual risk to natural ecosystems, habitats and branch and national economy in general. native species has not been estimated. The annual potential of forests of the Republic of Moldova regarding accessory products, such as Target 11. No species of wild flora endan- fruit and forest berries, nuts, mushrooms, medici- gered by international trade. nal plants etc., are estimated at about 4 thousand The Convention on International Trade in En- tons. dangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES, Annually, the forest sector brings an income Washington, 1973) was ratified by Law nr.1246- of 34-35 million MDL to the national economy, XIV of 28 September 2000. which is about 0.3-0.4 % of Gross Domestic Prod- The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources uct (GDP). on 25.01.2002 approved the Procedure (regulation) on authorization of export and import ac- Target 13. A halt in the decline of plant re- tivities of plant and animals from wild flora and sources, and associated indigenous and local fauna, of their parts and derivatives, as well as of knowledge, innovations and practices that import/export and re-export of flora and fauna support sustainable livelihoods, local food species regulated by the Convention on Interna- security and health care. tional Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna Implementation of this target has not been real- and Flora (CITES). ized in the Republic of Moldova; however Govern- Activities for export or import of plants and mental Program “Moldovan Village” includes some animals from the wild terrestrial and aquatic flo- separate aspects of relevance to the target. ra and fauna, of some of their parts and products alive, fresh or semi-prepared, can be organized Target 14. The importance of plant diversi- and carried out by physical or judicial persons ty and the need for its conservation incorpo- on a base of the respective environmental CITES rated into communication, educational and Permit/license, issued according to the provisions public-awareness programs. of the Procedure (regulation) on authorization of The diversity of plants has been described in export and import activities of plant and animals “Vegetal World the Republic of Moldova” in 5 vol- from wild flora and fauna, of their parts and de- umes (1986-1989), “Botanical research” in 9 vol- rivatives, as well as of import/export and re-export 58 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY umes (1981-1990), “Vegetation of the Republic of University of Moldova, and the Free Independent Moldova” (1995), “Plant kingdom of Moldova” in University of Moldova (ULIM). four volumes (2005-2007), Medicinal plants (2008), Every year there are specialists instructed in the and Dendrology (2009). following fields: biology-134; pedology-17; geog- BDCNSAP and SSDFS of the Republic of raphy-117; ecology-30; water protection- 14; envi- Moldova include educational activities and activi- ronmental law-13; forestry-15; pisciculture-12. ties for public awareness. The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources The Law nr.982-XIV of 11.05.2000 on access in cooperation with the international institutions to information constitutes the general normative (World Bank, TACIS Programme) organizes train- framework of the access to official information. ings for specialists from different environmental The following have been approved: the Regula- protection and biodiversity areas. The realization tion on public involvement in the process of elabo- of different projects for implementation of inter- ration and approval of environmental decisions, national conventions, to which the Republic of and the Regulation on consulting the population Moldova is part, also includes seminars and train- in the process of elaboration and approval of docu- ings. mentation for territory planning and urbanism. Recently Lyceum and University of Academy of Mass-media published sets of laws in Romanian, Science of Moldova were founded, and they pre- English and Russian languages. The Convention on pare qualified staff in different fields, including in Access to Information, Public Participation in the the ecologic sphere. Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environ- Professional training of forestry workers ac- mental Matters (Aarhus, 1998), ratified by Parlia- cording to modern requirements requires support ment Decision nr. 346-XIV of 7.04.99 was applied. of the recently formed educational system in the Newspapers “Natura” and “Mediul ambiant” are silvic sector, provision of educational institutions specifically dedicated to environmental protection with venues, modern equipment, experimental fa- and biodiversity. Annually different olimpiads and cilities, manuals and other didactic materials. local, regional and national contests take place on environmental protection including the role of Target 16. Networks for plant conserva- plants and their conservation. tion activities established or strengthened at Access to the information is not completely as- national, regional and international levels. sured due to the lack of complete databases con- Implementation of this target is stipulated in cerning environmental information. BDCNSAP chapters “Improvement of policies, legal and institutional framework.” Target 15. The number of trained people At present international relations regarding working with appropriate facilities in plant conservation of plants is extending and becoming conservation increased, according to na- diverse. Scientists and academia from the Republic tional needs, to achieve the targets of this of Moldova participate in implementation of Euro- Strategy. pean Strategy for Plant Conservation through Eu- BDCNSAP and SSDFS of the Republic of ropean organization “Planta Europa.” International Moldova stipulate modernization of the system for projects are successfully being implemented in the professional training and an increase of qualifica- sphere of biodiversity conservation and reduction tions of personnel. of environmental pollution from agriculture and Linked to the Moldova State University, a Na- other. tional Training Centre for the personnel from the It is necessary to continuously develop interna- environmental field has been created. There are tional cooperation and coordination in this sphere, programs created according to the respective cur- especially with the neighboring countries. ricula. Training of personnel in the field is possible in the institutions for higher education: Moldova State University, Tiraspol State University located in Chisinau, Agrarian State University of Moldo- va, the State Medical and Pharmaceutical Univer- sity of Moldova “Nicolae Testemiţeanu,” Technical

59 Annexes 60 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY Annex IV.

Activities implemented for fulfillment of goals and objectives of Working Program on Protected areas, adopted by COP Decision VII/28

ccording to the Convention on Biologi- Conservation of natural ecosystems, biological cal Diversity requirement, the Republic of and landscape diversity will be assured through the MoldovaA has created a system of state protected National Ecological Network (NEN) which is pres- natural areas, developed regulations regarding or- ently in the course of establishment in RM. Place- ganizational structure and field of activities, adopt- ment of main components of ecological network is ed classification of state protected natural areas defined by Ecological Network Scheme, elaborated according to IUCN criteria that were introduced by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. based on the Law on Natural Areas Protected by the State (1998). Main ecosystem components of protected BDCNSAP outlines the development of pro- areas system. tected area system as objectives, as well as optimi- 1. Forest ecosystems zation of its management, inventory of biodiversity of protected areas and evaluation of efficiency of In the habitat of forest ecosystems there is a activities for its protection. significant number of rare species. 151 species In Moldova the first official list of zones with the are taken under state protection, out of which 58 status of reservations appeared in 1993. During the are included in the Red Book of Moldova (2002): Soviet period environmental protection duties were criticly endangered (CR)- 21 species, endangered executed by a special state committee, founded in (RO) – 18 species, vulnerable (VU) – 19 species. 1968. The first natural reservation “Codrii” was 18 species represent special significance, which are founded in 1971. Presently the protected area fund rare for Black Sea region (north) and are included consists of 157,227 ha which represent only 4.65% in the Red Book of Moldova and Ukraine and the of the country’s total territory. Landscape reserva- Red List of Romania - Astragalus dasyanthus Pall., tions occupy a predominant position (51.5%) fol- Bulbocodium versicolor (Ker-Gawl.) Spreng., Ce- lowed by scientific reservations (12.33%). phalanthera damasonium (Mill.) Druce, C. longifo- Protected areas in the Republic of Moldova are lia (L.) Fritsch, Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich, Col- classified according to IUCN categories: chicum triphyllum G. Kunze, Cypripedium calceolus I: Scientific reservation: protected area adminis- L., Euonymus Nana Bieb., Galanthus elwesii Hook. trated mainly with scientific purposes; fil. , G. nivalis L., G. plicatus Bieb., Gymnospermium II: National park: protected area administrated odessanum (DC.) Takht., Leucojum aestivum L., for protection of ecosystems and recreation; Nеctaroscordium bulgaricum Janka, Orchidee mo- III: Natural Monument: protected area admin- rio L., O. purpurea Huds., Ornithogalum oreoides istrated for conservation of specific natural Zahar., Pulsatilla grandis Wend. The habitat of for- characteristics and trends; est ecosystem includes 38 relict species. IV: Nature Reserve: protected area administrated Out of the total surface of protected areas from for conservation through intervention; the forest fund, the share of naturally found forest V: Landscape Reservation: protected area ad- is only 42%. From derived forests (30.3%), approxi- ministrated mainly for conservation of land- mately 50% are completely derived, which practi- scape of recreation zones; cally have no silvoformant species (oak, fagus, etc.). VI: Resource reservation: protected area admin- This data confirms the need for execution of com- istrated mainly for sustainable use of natural plex of works related to reconstruction of arbors ecosystems; situated in an inadequate station, based on protect- VII: Multifunctional management area. ed area management objectives.

61 Annexes 2. Steppe ecosystems. tions of medicinal plants” as well – from village In the Republic of Moldova natural or virgin Bugeac UTA Găgăuză (56 ha), Forestry Larga, For- steppe were widely spread and occupied about 80% estry Cahul (343 ha). of country’s territory in the 19th century. Presently Other territories with steppe vegetation are pre- the natural steppes are practically destroyed due sented In special literature, which are not protected the agricultural use of these territories. Currently by state: Kneazevca II (15.25 ha), Hănăsănii-Noi in the framework of some agricultural lands (de- (20 ha), Stoianovca (5 ha) and Toceni (10 ha), as clines, inaccessible lands for agricultural equip- well as villages from raion Leova , Cantemir and ment, degraded or inefficient for cultivation) small others. sectors can be found with steppe vegetation with Sectors of steppe vegetation are presented by the total surface of 80,000 ha. thermopile species from Eurasian zone. The Re- In ecological legislation of the RM Bugeac (4 public of Moldova represent the far eastern flank ha), from village Dezghingea ATU Găgăuză (15 of Eurasian steppes. The main species of steppe ec- ha), village Vinogradovca in raion Taraclia (50ha), osystem are: Stipa capillata L, S. Lessingiana Trin. Forestry Copanca and Forestry Bender from raion Et Rupr, S. ucrainica P. Smirn., S. dosyphylla Liudm, Căuşeni (71 ha) are indicated as sectors of primary Trautv., S. pennata L., S. pulcherrima C Koch, S. or virgin steppe vegetations. ecologic legislation tirsa Stev., Festuca valesiaca Gandiu. Dominant stipulates sectors of steppe vegetation as “reserva- Fig. 7. Distribuţia arboretelor în fondul forestier de stat şi fondul ariilor naturale protejate de stat.

Fondul forestier de stat Fondul ariilor protejate de stat

23,9%

40,2% 50,4% 45,8%

30,3%

9,4%

Arborete Arborete Arborete Arborete Arborete Arborete arti ciale derivate natural-fundamentale arti ciale derivate natural-fundamentale

Fig. 8. Componenţa specifică a pădurilor şi a fondului de arii naturale protejate de stat.

Fondul forestier de stat Fondul ariilor protejate de stat 1,6% 2,6% 13,4% 15,8% 2,2% 6,2% 39,6% 44,4%

11% 36,1% 4,6% 8% 1% 12,6%

Cvercinee Frasin Salcâm Cvercinee Frasin Salcâm

Răşinoase Carpen Plop Alte specii Răşinoase Carpen Plop Alte specii

62 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY abundance of poacee indicate level of degradation Porzana porzana, P. pusila, P. parva, Circus cyaneus, of the steppe ecosystem’s vegetation. There areBo - Spermophilus citellus şi Mustela eversmanni became triochloa ischuemum, (L.), Keng, Poa angustifolia L, rare in steppe and meadow ecosystems of RM and Elytrigia repens L. Nevski, Bromopsis riparia, Relim, were included in the Red Book of Moldova. B. inermis, Leys. Flora of natural protected steppe areas includes 422 species of vascular plants, 42 Extension of protected area system. of which are rare or endangered, and 10 are in- BDCNSAP stipulates extension of PAS surface cluded in the Red Book of RM. Landscape value of up to 80,000 ha by 2015, in reality this indicator has Moldovan steppe can be completed with rare spe- been already exceeded, currently the surface of PAS cies of plants, included in Red List of Europe: Col- consists of 187,227 ha. As of today the following chicum fominii Bordz, Galirun moldavicum - Dob- objects were included or suggested for inclusion in cescu, Franco, Pulsatilla grandis Waut, P. patens (L.) the Law on Natural Protected Areas by the State: Lill, Veronica luxina Turril, ( Pînzaru, 2002). agreement and recreation park “Valea Morilor” in Chişinău mun., Cave Surprizelor in Criuleni town 3. Meadow ecosystems. and one sector of reservoir lake Dubăsari. Currently Presently surfaces with primary meadow eco- 4 forest sectors are at scientific evaluation stage for systems doesn’t exist. Within the past 40 years the assignment of PAS statute. A great share of BDCN- natural meadow ecosystems have been destroyed SAP priorities were implemented by the Biodiver- on a surface of about 200 thousand ha. At present sity Office within Ministry of Ecology and Natural they only occupy about 101 thousand ha (3% of Resources. The project on “Improving coverage the total area of the republic). The rest of primary and management effectiveness of the Protected meadow vegetation can be found only alongside Area System in Moldova” was developed with the rivers Prut and Nistru. main objective of extending the surface of PAS in Flora is composed of approximately 650 species, Moldova by about 20,000 ha through the creation the following are more widely present: Poa, Alo- of First National Park in raion Orhei through con- pecurus, Gliceria, Carex, Medicago and Trifolium. solidation of fragmentary protected areas. As a result of anthropogenic activity 28 species be- The zone of Orhei National Park is situated in came rare and the number of Asteraceae ruderale Codrii region in the central part of Moldova. In this is constantly increasing, which contributes to the zone the main protected areas are as follows: natu- decline of diversity of species and forage value of ral forest rezervations - Cobîleni (33.5 ha), Vîşcăuţi meadows. Approximately 70 associations have reg- (24 ha); Landscape reservations Pohrebeni (1,049 istered in meadow ecosystems. ha), Trebujeni (500 ha); Resource reservations - The total number of 647.7 ha of meadow and cernoziom of central silvic zone (4 ha); representa- steppe vegetation has been taken under state pro- tive meadow sector with coppice (10 ha), park in tection, which forms about 0.40% of total meadow Ivancea village (3 ha); nature monuments (geologi- ecosystems. The main impact of anthropogenic ac- cal and paleontological): settlements of reliquae tivity upon meadow biodiversity and biocenosis is vertebrate from Pocşeşti (2 ha), Orhei clough (100 the drainage of wetlands for excessive agriculture ha), stone reef (3 ha), Stînca Mîgla (3 ha); hydro- and pasturing purposes. The great part of meadow logic monuments – spring from Cucuruzeni vil- ecosystems that remained on fragmented territo- lage (0.5 ha), spring from Izvoare village (0.5 ha), ries are strongly degraded and are often occupied spring from Jeloboc village (10 ha), with total sur- by secondary biocenosis with ruderal and halo- face of approximately 1742.5 ha. The reservations phytic plants. mentioned above represent a natural complex of Approximately 88 species of terrestrial verte- regional and global significance for conservation brate (23.2% of total number in RM) are registered of numerous species of endangered plants and ani- in meadow ecosystems. A certain number of ver- mas that are protected by State according to pro- tebrate such as Aquila rapax, Tetrax tetrax and An- vision of Berna Convention (1979), Ramsar Con- thropoides fecioara have disappeared from meadow vention (1971), Bonn Convention (1979), Habitat and steppe ecosystems on the territory of RM as Directive of EU (1992). a result of loss and degradation of habitat. Other The draft of law has been submitted to the Par- species Otis tarda, Glareola praticola and Circus liament to include the stream of Nistru river from macrourus no longer nest in Moldova. Due to neg- Dubasari town to Oxentea village with the total ative impact a series of species such as Crex crex, surface of 1,800 ha in the state protected area for 63 Annexes attribution of status of state protected multifunc- The main indicators on attribution of statute of tional area. state protected natural areas are: number of rare A number of proposals on the extension of ex- species of plants and animals included in the Red isting protected areas were made as an outcome of Book of Moldova, relief and landscape representa- inventories and scientific evaluation of protected tive from ecologic and esthetic point of view, pres- areas, including conducting research and meetings ence of unique elements on its territory. with nearby population from adjacent areas. How- For some protected objects programs and plans ever disagreement of the population regarding this are elaborated on recovery and conservation ap- issue has postponed the process of establishment proved by Governmental Decisions. Similar plans of a new reservation. were approved for scientific reservations “Codrii,” Law nr. 94-XVI regarding ecological network was “Pădurea Domnească,” “Plaiul Fagului,” “Prutul de elaborated and approved in 2007 with the goal of Jos,” parks in Mîndîc and Ţaul villages, Landscape strengthening the regional network of protected reservations “Ţipova” and “Saharna,” “Ţigăneşti,” areas, along with elaboration and submission to “Căbăieşti – Părjolteni,” “Temeleuţi,” “Trebujeni,” the Government of the National Program on Es- “Dolna,” “Cantemir,” “Antoneşti,” and others. tablishment of an Ecological Network. Plans include restoration of native vegetation, The scientific reevaluation of protected areas at reconstruction of lakes and affiliated territories, raions Briceni and Ocnita was conducted with the dendrological inventory of forest vegetation and purpose of confirming the scientific value of pro- elaboration of measures for restoration of vegeta- tected areas. Documents were elaborated for each tion according to initial state. Plans include terms protected object, which soon will be published. for measures to be taken, responsible institutions, Projects were financed by the National Eco- and necessary financial sources. logical Fund on renovation of parks from Ţaul and Mîndîc villages and a project of scientific evalua- Methods, standards, criteria and indica- tion of new territories is suggested to be taken un- tors necessary for evaluation of efficiency of der state protection. management and regulation of protected Academia of Botanical Garden (Institute) of areas. ASM have identified a set of natural areas from An important role in evaluation of efficiency of steppe and meadow ecosystems that represent in- protected area management is ecological monitor- terest for biodiversity conservation and have pro- ing. As the method for evaluation of efficiency in posed measures for their protection. A draft of a monitoring of protected areas is used monitoring national program on the creation of Ecological vegetation dynamics, abundance and vitality of Network in RM envisages significant extension of populations of endangered plants and animas and the natural protected areas fund. other dominated species on respective ecosystems. One of the instruments of ecological manage- Objectives and indicators regarding pro- ment used in the Republic of Moldova is ISO 14000 tected areas standards which directly or indirectly include Objectives regarding protected areas, stipulated management of protected areas and biodiversity in BDCNSAP are as follows: together. For evaluation of efficiency of protect- zzextension of protected areas fund of RM with ed area management there is a set of other tools, approximately 15,000 ha until 2015; however the main tools are the following: surface zzobservance of protection regime of protected of protected area and regulation on protection ac- areas of II-VI IUCN categories; cording to law. zzextension of protected areas fund at steppe, State control on observance of the protection meadow and padulous ecosystems; regime in protected areas is conducted by the State zzimprovement of representation and compli- Ecological Inspectorate jointly with local public ance of protected areas with the requirements administration, legal and internal affairs bodes. In on conservation of biological and landscape di- case contraventions are revealed special protocols versity; are elaborated and presented to the party. zzIn the Regulation approved by Governmental The principle “Polluter Pays” has been intro- Decision nr. 803 from 19.06.2002 procedure is duced. stipulated on the institution of natural area pro- At the same time is it necessary to continue tected by the state. research in the sphere of evaluation of impact on 64 THE FOURTH NATIONAL REPORT on BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY biodiversity, methods of management of protected Facilities designed or put into commission with- areas, including elaboration of recommendations out having positive feedback of state ecological ex- regarding restoration of degraded natural areas perts and for which the impact upon environment taking into consideration their value and possibil- and population health is present will become a ity of population’s involvement in such activities, as subject of ecologic audit according to provisions of well as other modifications in national legislation. Regulation on ecologic audit of enterprises. At the same time there is a procedure of ecologic express- Sustainable financing of a national system audit at potentially hazardous enterprises, given to of protected areas. privatization or in case of change of owner (accord- At present the Republic of Moldova lacks a plan ing to Regulation on environmental impact assess- on sustainable financing of protected areas. Ac- ment, approved by Governmental Decision nr. 394 cording to current national legislation financing of dated 8.04.1998). The main purpose of such audit objects from protected areas fund (scientific res- is to evaluate and compensate damage caused to ervations, national parks, biosphere reservations) the environment by previous activity of enterprise, comes from the state budget, from extra-budgetary elaboration of investigation plans and implemen- sources, from ecologic fund, and from donations tation of measures to avoid negative impact on the of legal and physical entities, including foreign environment in the future. It is necessary to men- and other special sources. Other categories of pro- tion that this document includes a special chapter tected areas are financed from local budgets, from that stipulates compulsory environmental impact national ecological fund, from sources of public assessment upon protected areas and conservation landowners, from donations of legal and physi- of biological diversity. cal entities, including foreign and other sources allowed by legislation. Annual scientific research Obstacles and barriers in implementation programs of scientific reservations, national parks, of working program on protected areas. biosphere reservations as well other categories of In the Republic of Moldova the regime on pro- protected areas are financed from state orders and tection of objects and complexes of state protected from special budgetary funds administrated by the natural areas is not fully observed due to negative General scientific council of fund of natural state impact of cattle pasturing, mineral substance ex- protected areas. traction, mowing, illicit cutting and poaching and It is necessary to mention that from the state because of the following reasons: budget financial sources are allocated only for con- zzirresponsibility of local public administration ducting scientific research. In general, protection, and landowners regarding correct management scientific reevaluation, inventory of protected areas of protected areas; as well as recovery were financial supported only zzlow level of public awareness; from the National ecological fund and from Global zzlack of working places for local population from Environmental Facility. settlements near protected areas; Principles of conducting ecologic impact as- zzcontradictions in environmental legislation; sessment (EIE) for projects and plans with the pur- zzreduced sanctions and penalties for committed pose of assessment of impact of present projects violations; and plans on protected areas. zzprivatization of lands from natural protected Environmental impact assessment as well as areas; evaluation of impact on biodiversity is mandatory zzinsufficient financing of activities in protected for all projects that intend to take complex and po- areas; tentially environmentally hazardous activities on zzdisagreement of population (in some cases) re- the territory of RM. garding extension of protected areas; Regulation on environmental impact assess- zzlack of lands for pasture extension; ment stipulates the mode of elaboration, coordina- zzlack of integrated monitoring of objects of re- tion and approval of documents, and includes the spective protected areas. List of objects and activities for which it is necessary to conduct environmental impact assessment. This regulation is elaborated as mandatory at initial state of project drafting.

65 Annexes Bibliography

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