NATIONAL REPORTS OF ACCOBAMS PARTIES

Transcription

1 Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and contiguous Atlantic area, concluded under the auspices of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) Accord sur la Conservation des Cétacés de la Mer Noire, de la Méditerranée et de la zone Atlantique adjacente, conclu sous l égide de la Convention sur la Conservation des Espèces Migratrices appartenant à la Faune Sauvage (CMS) Sixth Meeting of the Parties to ACCOBAMS Monaco, 22-25November /11/2016 English ACCOBAMS-MOP6/2016/Inf03 NATIONAL REPORTS OF ACCOBAMS PARTIES Delegates are kindly invited to bring their own documents to the Meeting. This document will be available only in electronic format during the Meeting.

2 NATIONAL REPORTS OF ACCOBAMS PARTIES ALBANIA... 3 ALGERIA... 7 BULGARIA... 9 CROATIA EGYPT FRANCE GEORGIA GREECE ITALY LEBANON LIBYA MALTA MONACO MONTENEGRO MOROCCO PORTUGAL ROMANIA SLOVENIA SPAIN SYRIA TUNISIA UKRAINE

3 ALBANIA 1. Name of Party: ALBANIA 2. Period covered by this report: Triennium Focal Point Full name: MSc. Elvana Ramaj Organization: Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration Function: Senior expert - Biodiversity Directorate Address: Rruga e Durresit, No.27 City: Tirana ZIP Code: Country: ALBANIA Telephone: Fax: eramaj@moe.gov.al 4. Definition of the areas under national jurisdiction included in the Agreement s field of application (over which the Agreement applies 5. If the Party is a member of an organization of economic integration, please insert here the name of the organisation No 6. Signature/Ratification Date when the Party signed, ratified, accepted, approved or joined the ACCOBAMS: (YYYY-MM-DD) Signed: Ratified: Accepted: Joined: Ratification of amendments Amendment of Article 2 of the Conservation Plan concerning the driftnets (Resolution 3.10), Date of ratification: N/A Amendment concerning the extension of the ACCOBAMS geographical scope (Resolution A4.1), Date of ratification: 8. Reservations: N/A 9. National bodies: National Authorities: Research Organisations: - Museum of Natural Sciences under the Faculty of Natural Sciences(Tirana University) is the research centre in the field of study of cetaceans. Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs): - The Association for the Protection of Acquatic Wildlife in Albania (APAWA)- headed by Dr. Sajmir Beqiraj Rescue Centres for Cetaceans: 10. Legislation/Regulation Date: Title: Order of Minister of the Environment, Forests and Water Administration "On the approval of the Red list of albanian flora and fauna" no. 146 of Authority: MoEFWA 3

4 Date: Title: Law no.9867 of "On the rules and procedures on international trade of endangered species of wild fauna and flora" Authority: Ministry of Environment, Forests an Date: Title: Law no , of "On wild fauna protection" Authority: Ministry of Environment, Forests an Date: Title: Law no.8906, "On protected Areas", amended in 2008 Authority: Ministry of Environment, Forests an Date: Title: Law no.9587 of "On biodiversity protection" Authority: Ministry of Environment, Forests an 11.Relevant International Conventions and Agreements Convention/Agreement Signature Ratification Entry into force Convention on Biological Diversity Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn, ) Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Berne, 1979) United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Montego Bay, 1982) Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Region of the Mediterranean (Barcelona, ) Protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas and Biological Diversity in the Mediterranean (Barcelona, 1995) Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES - Washington, 1973) International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (Washington, 1946) Agreement on Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks(1995) General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean La Commission Internationale pour l'exploration Scientifique de la Méditerranée OSPAR Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic Annex V concerning the protection and conservation of ecosystems and Biological Diversity of the Maritime Area (OSPAR Convention) 12.Networks set up for monitoring cetacean strandings There has been no real monitoring of cetaceans strandings in Albania. This is due to the lack of human and financial 4

5 resources as well as the lack of specialized experts in this field. Strandings are reportted occassionally by fisherman and scientists that happen to be in the area at the given moment. The Museum of Natural Sciences is trying to collect such information that anyway remains scarce and fragmented. 13.Data about cetacean stranding 14.Emergency plans There are no developments to be reported on this issue as emergency plans do not exist yet in the country. The help and support of ACCOBAMS would be appreciated on this matter. 15.Cetaceans reported in the area under the jurisdiction of the country 16.Information on the national fishing fleet active in the area of the Agreement Type of fishing Number of units Fishing boats with fixed gill-nets 67 Fishing boats with purse seine nets 16 Fishing boats with drift-nets 177 Fishing boats with surface long-lines 1 Other types of fishing able to interact with cetaceans N/A 17. Conservation measures introduced to attain and maintain a state of conservation favourable to cetaceans Conservation measures for the reporting period include the designation of e number of coastal protected areas as follows: - Protected landscape Vjose-Narte by Government Decree no. 680, date that includes 7225 hectares of marine area; - Ramsar site of Shkodra Lake and Velipoje wetland area DCM no. 683, dated that includes hectares of marine areas; - Enlargement of Butrinti National Park by Government Decree no 693, dated to 8591,2 hectares of which 2509 hectares are marina areas. - Designation of the first marine National Park in Sazani island and Karaburun penninsula area by Government Decree no.289 of with a territory of 12427,9 hectares; - Enlargement of Kune-Vain- Tale Managed Nature Reserve by Government Decree no. 432 of covering an area of 4393, 2 hecatres 18.Research and monitoring programmes and projects done to improve knowledge about, the biology, ecology and conservation of cetaceans Research programmes During the summer of 2010 an expedition leaded by Mr. Drasko Holcer regarding the aerial survey of the coast-line of Albania was carried out successfully. The report on the findings is yet to be published. 5

6 Monitoring programmes Museum of Natural Sciences in the framework of the monitoring projects continues to covers the monitoring of cetaceans species as well. However, due to the limited funds the monitoring is not comprehensive and it does not cover all cetaceans species every year. 19.Relevant bibliographical references work 20.bilateral or multilateral cooperation programmes N/A 21.Measures related to the Resolutions of the Meetings of the Parties 6

7 1. Name of Party: ALGERIA ALGERIA 2. Period covered by this report: Triennium Focal Point Full name: Mr Nadir BENSEGUENI Organization: Ministère de la Pêche et des Ressources Halieutiques Function: Address: Rue des Quatre Canons, Alger - ALGERIE City: ZIP Code: Country: ALGERIA Telephone: /74-75 / Fax: Fax : n.bensegueni@mprh-dz.com 4. Definition of the areas under national jurisdiction included in the Agreement s field of application (over which the Agreement applies 5. If the Party is a member of an organization of economic integration, please insert here the name of the organisation 6. Signature/Ratification Date when the Party signed, ratified, accepted, approved or joined the ACCOBAMS: (YYYY-MM-DD) Signed: Ratified: Accepted: Joined: 7. Ratification of amendments Amendment of Article 2 of the Conservation Plan concerning the driftnets (Resolution 3.10), Date of ratification: Amendment concerning the extension of the ACCOBAMS geographical scope (Resolution A4.1), Date of ratification: 8. Reservations: 9. National bodies: National Authorities: Research Organisations: Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs): Rescue Centres for Cetaceans: 10. Legislation/Regulation 11.Relevant International Conventions and Agreements 7

8 12.Networks set up for monitoring cetacean strandings 13.Data about cetacean stranding 14.Emergency plans 15.Cetaceans reported in the area under the jurisdiction of the country 16.Information on the national fishing fleet active in the area of the Agreement Type of fishing Number of units Fishing boats with fixed gill-nets Fishing boats with purse seine nets Fishing boats with drift-nets Fishing boats with surface long-lines Other types of fishing able to interact with cetaceans 17. Conservation measures introduced to attain and maintain a state of conservation favourable to cetaceans 18.Research and monitoring programmes and projects done to improve knowledge about, the biology, ecology and conservation of cetaceans Research programmes Monitoring programmes 19.Relevant bibliographical references work 20.bilateral or multilateral cooperation programmes 21.Measures related to the Resolutions of the Meetings of the Parties 8

9 BULGARIA 1. Name of Party: BULGARIA 2. Period covered by this report: Triennium Focal Point Full name: Ms Yana Velina Organization: Biological Diversity Department, National Nature Protection Function: Senior Expert Address: 22 Maria Louiza,Bulvd., 1000 Sofia BULGARIA City: Sofia ZIP Code: 1000 Country: BULGARIA Telephone: Fax: yavelina@moew.government.bg 4. Definition of the areas under national jurisdiction included in the Agreement s field of application (over which the Agreement applies Black sea 5. If the Party is a member of an organization of economic integration, please insert here the name of the organisation Black sea economic cooperation (BSEC) 6. Signature/Ratification Date when the Party signed, ratified, accepted, approved or joined the ACCOBAMS: (YYYY-MM-DD) Signed: Ratified: Accepted: Joined: Ratification of amendments Amendment of Article 2 of the Conservation Plan concerning the driftnets (Resolution 3.10), Date of ratification: Amendment concerning the extension of the ACCOBAMS geographical scope (Resolution A4.1), Date of ratification: Reservations: No 9. National bodies: National Authorities: - Ministry of Environment and Water Bulgaria- EXECUTIVE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY (EXEA)- EXECUTIVE AGENCY FOR FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE (EAFA)- REGIONAL INSPECTORATE OF ENVIRONMENT ANDWATER- BURGAS- REGIONAL INSPECTORATE OF ENVIRONMENT ANDWATHER - VARNA Research Organisations: - INSTITUTE OF FISH RESOURCES - Varna, Bulgaria- INSTITUTE OF OCEANOLOGY - Bulgarian Academy of science (BAS) - INSTITUTE OF BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEM RESEARCH AT THE BULGARIAN ACADEMY OF SCIENCES- SOFIA UNIVERSITY ST. KLIMENT OHRIDSKI, FACULTY OF BIOLOGY- AQUARIUM VARNA Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs): - Federation of Nature Conservation NGO's Green Balkans Rescue Centres for Cetaceans: - There are no designated rescue centers for cetaceans or any that function as such unofficially. 9

10 10. Legislation/Regulation Date: 09/08/2002 Title: Biological Diversity Act (BDA), Promulgated, State Gazette No. 77/ , amended, SG No. 77/ , effective Authority: Date: 24/04/2001 Title: Fishery andaquaculture Act Authority: Date: 1/11/2005 Title: Veterinary Practices Act. Promulgated, State Gazette No. 87/ , amended, SG No. 97/ Authority: Date: 8/2/2008 Title: Animal Protection Act Authority: 11.Relevant International Conventions and Agreements Convention/Agreement Signature Ratification Entry into force Convention on Biological Diversity Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn, ) Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Berne, 1979) United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Montego Bay, 1982) Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Region of the Mediterranean (Barcelona, 1976) Protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas and Biological Diversity in the Mediterranean (Barcelona, 1995) Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES - Washington, 1973) International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (Washington, 1946) Agreement on Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks(1995) General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean La Commission Internationale pour l'exploration Scientifique de la Méditerranée OSPAR Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic Annex V concerning the protection and conservation of ecosystems and Biological Diversity of the Maritime Area (OSPAR Convention) 12. Networks set up for monitoring cetacean strandings Bulgaria has started developing stranding network since The target of this network is to collect basic information on cetaceans live or dead stranded along the coast, bycatched in fishing nets and to identify specific measures to prevent the increased mortality. All cases of stranded specimens should be reported to Regional Inspectorate (RIEW) -Varna and RIEW-Burgas. 10

11 In August 2016 the Minister of environment and water issued an Instruction for cooperation in cases of cetacean stranding on Bulgarian Black Sea coastline. It was elaborated via interdepartmental working group, including ministries, agencies, district administrations, scientific institutions and non-governmental organizations working and responsible on cetaceans stranding cases, in which all the parties had the opportunity to contribute according their experience and point of view. The instruction covers the following topics: passing and receiving of signals; response from the competent state authorities; monitoring; undertaking of actions in cases of live or dead cetaceans stranding on Bulgarian Black Sea coastline, including beaching of single specimens, mass or other unusual mortality; the policy of development capacity of the stakeholders; straight media coverage; relations with third countries and organizations. The aim is to create a unified and clear pattern of action in all stranding cases. In case of fresh carcasses found, there is organization made for their freezing with the purpose of performing autopsyand other necessary examinations. MoEW informed in August 2016 the Ministry of Tourism regarding concessionaires and leaseholdersof sea beaches in connection of the need of their participation in the Bulgarian stranded network via signalizing RIEW, applying for derogation under Biodiversity Act. They have obligations for sanitary maintenance of beaches, but MoEW requires clear set obligations regarding cetaceans to be defined in the new concession and lease contracts. RIEW Burgas and Varna respond to signals, received on the green telephones 24/7 and go on field check-up on the most of the cases, which has been demanded in 2016 via the above instruction and the other written instructions prepared by the Ministry. During the period, two NGO has worked in the stranded network Green Balkans and the society To Preserve Corals. Bulgaria has eight Black Sea municipalities, which have expressed their willingness to participate in the process of responding of stranded cetaceans. Because of the need of proceeding with protected species under the requirements of the Biological Diversity Act 2 of them has applied and received permits for such activity in 2015 and 6 in Ministry is still encouraging the remaining 6 to take part in the process, despite some of them render RIEW assistance on lower level (e.g. municipal ecologist). The transmission of data to Mediterranean Database of Cetacean Stranding (MEDACES) is not done on a regular base. The data are a submitted for the period only by NGO Green Balkans, which is partial data of all registered cases in Bulgaria. Ministry of Environment and Water will organize handing the information available in RIEW-Burgas and Varna to MEDACES at least for 2015 and Data about cetacean stranding The cases of stranded common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and harbor porpoises are registered by RIEW-Burgas and Varna. Detailed information for all cases will be send to MEDACES as to the moment it has been sent partially. The summary data for 2013 and 2014 is as follow: RIEW-Burgas for the whole 2013 registered 47 specimens (from 1st July to the end of 2013 is 26 specimens), for specimens. RIEW-Varna for the whole 2013 has registered 19 specimens (from 1st July to the end of 2013 is 26 specimens), for specimens. The data for 2015 and 2016 (till ) by month s distribution is as follow: For 2015: RIEW-Burgas has registered 1 specimen in February, 2 in May, 6 in June, 14 in July, 31 in August, in total 54 specimens. 11

12 RIEW-Varna has registered 1 specimen in February, 9 in May, 2 in June, 6 in July, 24 in August, 2 in September, in total 44 specimens. For the period 1 Jan to 31 Aug 2016: RIEW-Burgas for the period form has registered 1 specimen in February, 2 in March, 3 in April, 5 in May, 9 in June, 86 in July, 66 in August, in total 172 specimens. RIEW-Varna has registered 1 specimen in March, 2 in April, 3 in May, 13 in June, 25 in July, 5 in August, in total 49 specimens. Data for stranded cetacean in Bulgarian Black Sea coast for 2016 (till 31Aug.) and 2015 are respectively 221 specimens and 98 species. Of all these cases, there are few incidents of live cetaceans stranded. Alarming fact is that cases of mortality of 2016 registered in June are 22 specimens, in July 111 specimens and in August 71 specimens. For instance during July there were registered over 20 specimens thrown away at just three neighboring beaches. Many of the cases concern the species harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), a significant part are juveniles or even "babies" with length up to 70 or 80 cm. Most of the specimens were in advanced stages of decomposition, suggesting prolonged stay in the sea after their death. Discharges are spatially uneven, i.e. they are beached on certain parts of the coastline. In 2015 there is a clear peak also in July and August. Surely RIEW-Burgas and Varna haven t registered absolutely all cases stranded cetaceans because not all of them are promptly reported by citizens and the carcasses are removed, i.e. mortality may be considered higher than the cited numbers, but the data collected were sufficiently representative and displays abnormal trend for the months of July and August in 2015 and Emergency plans Part of the above cited instructions is guide to reaction of live stranded cases which need urgency and excellent organization. There is no defined emergency plan, but in cases of mass stranding events, the reasons would be investigated, respective actions and enforcement measures under the Bulgarian legislation should be undertaken (e.g. MoEW could stop procedure of airgun usage in seismic surveys). 15. Cetaceans reported in the area under the jurisdiction of the country Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus); Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena); Common dolphin(delphinus delphis) 16. Information on the national fishing fleet active in the area of the Agreement Type of fishing Number of units Fishing boats with fixed gill-nets 1771/in 2013/;1519/in 2014/;1529/in 2015/ Fishing boats with purse seine nets 44/in 2013/;60/in 2014/;58/in 2015/ Fishing boats with drift-nets 4/in 2013/;5/in2014/;2/in 2015/ Fishing boats with surface long-lines 123/in 2013/;80/in2014/;87/in 2015/ Other types of fishing able to interact with cetaceans 106/in 2013/;106/in 2014/;123/in 2015/ 17. Conservation measures introduced to attain and maintain a state of conservation favourable to cetaceans The Bulgarian legislation ensures special protection of the cetaceans in the Bulgarian Black Sea area together with other plant and animal species. They are listed in Annex 3 under Article 37 of the Biological Diversity Act as protected. Therefore in consistence with that protection following is prohibited: - аll forms of deliberate capture or killing by whatever devices, means or methods; - hunting and disturbance, particularly during the period of breeding, rearing, wintering and migration; - damage to, or destruction of, breeding, resting or staging places; - taking of found dead specimens; - possession, keeping, movement, transport, export, trade and offering for sale or exchange of specimens taken in the wild; - stuffing, possession, exhibition to the public, movement, transport, export, trade and offering for sale or exchange of stuffed specimens. Derogations from these prohibitions could be granted in special cases defined by the Biological Diversity Act. According to Biodiversity Act any person, who has found an injured or dead protected species, incl. cetacean, or who 12

13 has unintentionally injured or killed a specimen, is obligated, to notify the nearest Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water (RIEW). There are 14NATURA 2000 sites designated under the Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (Habitat Directive), which object of conservation are the bottlenose dolphin and the harbor porpoise (these two species are under the Habitat Directive): Durankulak lake BG Shabla Lake-Ezerec BG Complex Kaliakra -BG Galata BG Emona BG Emine-Irakli BG Kamchiq BG Shkorpilovci Beach BG Gradina Beach-Zlatna Ribka BG Ropotamo BG Strandja BG Aheloi-Ravda-Nessebar BG Otmanli BG Aladja Banka BG Full information for the zones is available at the Information system of the protected areas of the ecological network (only in Bulgarian) The meaning of the announced protected sites is by means of introduced or upcoming introduction of restrictive regimes to be implemented measures beneficial for habitats and species, including cetaceans, object to protection in each zone,. Many investing proposals go through a procedure of Environmental Impact Assessment, Environmental Assessment, and Assessment of the Compatibility under the national legislation which restrict the investment intentions, mitigate the adverse effect or in principal repel investors from the above announced areas. Bulgaria is going to declare a deep marine zones in Black Sea regarding harbor porpoise and bottlenose dolphin in accordance of the results of a project under procedure "Identifying and complement the network of marine protected areas" within the OP "Environment Within the project will be carried out mapping and determine the conservation status of different species including Tursiops truncatus and Phocoena phocoena. The procedure for this large scale project has started in There are no designated protected territories with object of conservation cetaceans under Bulgarian Protected Areas Act. Reduction of pollution Nearly 1.8 million EUR has been invested through the Operational Programme "Environment " in the construction of wastewater treatment facilities along the Bulgarian Black Sea coastline. Only in the past year were put into operation wastewater treatment facilities in many of the larger cities on the Black Sea. Under Council Directive 91/271/EEC of 21 May 1991 concerning urban wastewater treatment there have been identified 27 agglomerations with over 2000 residents on the Black Sea. At present, 20 sewage treatment plants for settlements wastewater serve 24 agglomerations, but only for 3 agglomerations (Aheloy, Ahtopol and Sinemorets) are not provided wastewater treatment. 13

14 18. Research and monitoring programmes and projects done to improve knowledge about, the biology, ecology and conservation of cetaceans Research programmes 1.Field observation of the cetaceans Tursiops truncatus, Phocoena phocoena and Delphinus delphis in the Bulgarian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Black Sea. The project is part from the international project named Field studies of species distribution / assessment of the status of species and habitats throughout the country I Phase, funded by Operational Programme Environment the beneficent is the Environmental Executive Agency. Aims of the project are: І. Determination and mapping of the distribution and relative abundance of cetacean populations I.1. Preliminary preview and selection of a methodology for field observations/mapping of the cetaceans Tursiops truncatus, Phocoena phocoena and Delphinus delphis. I.2. Field observations during the first field season (2014) include the approbation of the proposed methodology for the first use of ships, aircrafts and other vehicle. I.3. Field observations during the second field season (2015) I.4. Processing and analysis of the collected data using statistical programs and GIS models II. Assessment of the impact of environmental factors (anthropogenic and natural factors) on cetacean populations III. Assessment of the Conservation status ( CS ) of cetaceans in the Bulgarian EEZ in the Black Sea. Proposal for designation of protected areas. III.1. Developing a methodology for determining the Conservation status III.2. Development of the spatial model of distribution, abundance, density and migration of populations of cetaceans in the Bulgarian EEZ and the main habitat factors and threats; III.3. Selection and implementation of an ecosystem-based spatial analysis model and evaluation of the relationships between cetaceans and trophic factors (herds of fish) and fishing III.4. Determination of a conservation status III.5. Determination of the most suitable areas for protected areas (PA) for the two cetacean species (Tursiops truncatus and Phocoena phocoena) in the Bulgarian EEZ in the Black Sea, from the NATURA 2000 network. III.6. Preparation of the necessary documentation for declaring the proposed Protected areas under Art. 8of the Biodiversity Act (BA) IV. Proposal for a program for monitoring of the status and abundance of cetaceans in the Bulgarian EEZ in the Black Sea IV.1. Preparation of a proposal for a methodology for monitoring of cetaceans in the Bulgarian Black Sea EEZ in accordance with Regulation 2 of 18 December 2006 on procedures for the establishment and operation of the national system for monitoring of the biodiversity (published SG. No. 3 of 12 January 2007 ), including financial evaluation. ІV.2. Selection of monitoring sites The part with the proposition of NATURA 2000 sites, including a preparing documentation for its announcing, wasn t accomplished due to insufficiency of the field studies. Contractor of the project is Consortium Black Sea Research Programme NOAH OCAC. It is international consortium, established in The partners in the consortium are environmental companies: ENVECO SA-Greece, MacAlister Elliott & Partners (MEP)-UK, NGO Mare Nostrum-Romania, Institute of Fish Resources (IFR)-Varna, NGO Black sea research program- Noah. 2. Implemented projects by the Institute of Oceanology-Bulgarian Academy of Science (IO-BAS). In all of the projects is involved associated professor Violin Raykov. Participation in national and International bottom trawl surveys under DCR (EC/199/2008) ( ); 2010 and Opportunistic surveys and cetaceans detections related to the small pelagic fish distribution and abundance (trophic base). The activities are done jointly with IFR-Varna. 14

15 International hydro acoustic surveys under DCR (EC/199/2008) in 2010, 2011 and Opportunistic surveys and cetaceans detections related to the small pelagic fish distribution and abundance (trophic base). Pelagic surveys ( ) under DCR (EC/199/2008). Opportunistic surveys and cetaceans detections related to the small pelagic fish distribution and abundance (trophic base). The activities are done jointly with IFR-Varna. CBC Project Strengthening the regional capacity to support the sustainable management of the Black Sea Fisheries (SRCSSMBSF) ; By catch; Distribution, mortality of cetaceans. Strengthening regional cooperation in the area of fisheries data collection in the Mediterranean and Black Sea Agreement Number MARE/2014/19 - (SI ); ; Mediterranean and Black Sea; partners for Black Sea: IO-BAS and The National Institute for Marine Research and Development Grigore Antipa Constanta (NIMRD); Open Call for Tenders No. Mare/2011/16 Studies for carrying out the Common Fisheries Policy Lot No. 2: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea; IFR,IO-BAS, Istanbul university, NIMRD, UgNiro, Macalister & Elliott and partners, UK; Conservation, policy, effects, interactions with fisheries, abundance, distribution, mortality, by catch etc. See p. 3 for full information. DG MARE Lot 2: Retrospective and prospective evaluation on the common fisheries policy, excluding its international dimension Ref. No MARE/2011/01 Specific Contract No. 5: Study in support of the review of the EU regime on the small-scale driftnet fisheries; Interactions with fisheries, conservation policy. Participant from IO BAS. Expansion of the ecological network NATURA 2000 in the Bulgarian Black Sea water area to overcome the average failure in terms of marine habitats 1110 "Constantly covered by sea water sandy and silty shallows" and 1170 "Reefs" and type 4125 Alosa immaculata, 1349 Tursiops truncatus and 1351 Phocoena phocoena and partially replenish reserves for scientific habitat 1180 "Underwater structures are formed by leaking gases" and type 1349 Tursiops truncates, IO-BAS, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research (IBER-BAS), IFR 3. Implemented projects by the Institute of Fishery Resources (IFR)-Varna Research programmes: Project 1: Studies for carrying out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea General objectives: Provide European Commission with an analysis of the historical and current status of cetacean populations in the Black Sea and qualitative and quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gears; Provision of recommendations on mitigation measures for the fisheries identified to have the highest adverse impacts/by-catch rates Date: 07 August November 2014 Geographical scope: Western Black Sea, including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine and the ferry route between Ukraine and Georgia. Involved organizations and scientists: Involved organizations Implementing and management organization: MacAlister Elliott and Partners Ltd., United Kingdom; Project partners Institute of Fish Resources (Bulgaria), Brema Laboratory (Ukraine), National Institute for Marine Research and Development Grigore Antipa (Romania), Turkish Marine Research Foundation (TUDAV) (Turkey), Black Sea Commission (Istanbul); Involved scientists National Team Leaders for Bulgaria Konstantin Mihaylov, Institute of Fish Resources (Cetaceans Team Leader) Violin Raykov, Institute of Oceanology (Fisheries Team Leader) National Team Members Radoslava Bekova, Institute of Fish Resources Participants: Dimitar Vasilev Popov, Green Balkans NGO Reference of published reports (if applicable): Birkun A Jr, Northridge S P, Willsteed E A, James F A, Kilgour C, Lander M, Fitzgerald G D Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission, Brussels, 347 p. 15

16 Monitoring programmes: Monitoring programmes are implemented by the Institute of Fish Resources and Federation of Nature Conservation NGO's Green Balkans within the existing cetacean stranding network (CSN) along the Bulgarian coastline. The basic problem for CSNs (as in the Black Sea region in general) however remains the impossibility adequate systematic and organized cetacean research and conservation activities to be sustained on a regular and long-term scale due to finance shortage. The monitoring under observer programs for assessing the cetaceans by-catches is hindered by similar reasons. 4. NGO Green Balkans projects and activities Capacity building activities In 2014 practical trainings and tool boxes were provided to municipal ecologists from Black Sea coast of Bulgaria and experts in Regional environmental authorities in Burgas and Varna. Manual for collection of data from stranded cetaceans was developed, published and distributed to municipal ecologists and experts from Regional environmental authorities. In project Citizens support for study of Black Sea cetaceans along Bulgarian coast was implemented where more than 30 volunteers were trained in use of different study techniques for cetaceans collecting data on stranding, conducting coast-based surveys, line transect distance sampling, vessel surveys and photo-identification of dolphins. Public awareness activities On 5 June 2015 first ACCOBAMS Cetacean Day was celebrated at Pomorie Lake Visitor center. Presentation on cetaceans biology, study techniques, conservation and threats was made to the attending citizens and authorities. In August 2015 a Dolphin week was organized with 3 events in Burgas, Varna and Sozopol combining public events and games for children with public awareness related vessel survey. Poster, leaflet and children book Our friends Dolphins were printed and disseminated. Wide media coverage was achieved for the public events by national media TV, radio, newspapers, and internet media. In 2015 a special program was recorded by Deutsche Welle (DW) related to the mass mortality of porpoises along Bulgarian Black Sea coast and trainings for volunteers. Follow up coverage on the mass mortality in 2016 was recorded by same journalist but this time for ZDF television. International coverage of the problem by IUCN and was also made. In 2016 activities of Green Balkans were presented during Dolphins Day in Romania, organized by Mare Nostrum NGO in Constanta on 5 August. Since 2015, Green Balkans NGO has developed special dedicated website for Black Sea cetaceans as part of the greenbalkans.org website: The website provides rich source of information on Black sea cetaceans, study techniques, conservation and threats plus a feedback form for sightings. Research activities Collection of information on stranding was made through the whole reported period. Data for 2014 was submitted to MEDACES. Data for 2015 is not submitted to MEDACEs since there were some discrepancies in reported numbers based on collected information by authorities and Save Koral beach NGO that has established a facebook group for collecting information on strandings. Data for 2016 is being collected but since numbers are also very high it will take more time for processing and submission to MEDACES. During the project Citizens support for study of Black Sea cetaceans along Bulgarian coast number of vessel line transect distance sampling surveys have been conducted two in SCI Strandzha BG and SCI Ropotamo BG In addition in May 2016 a vessel line transect survey was conducted in the entire Bulgarian 12-mile zone replicating the survey conducted in July 2013 within DG Mare project. Collected data is to be processed during 16

17 planned training workshop Estimating marine mammal abundance and life history parameters in December to be organized by Mare Nostrum NGO at Constanta. Others Green Balkans expert attended following workshops organized by ACCOBAMS Workshop for Partners and Workshop on live stranding in 2014, Workshop on improvement of communication on cetaceans held during European Cetacean Society Conference (ECS 2015) and Marine mammal observers (MMO) workshop at ECS By request of National Focal point, Green Balkans expert represented Bulgaria in ACCOBAMS Black Sea Regional workshop held in April In 2015 Green Balkans expert was involved in the team developing management plan for the NATURA 2000 area Kompleks Kaliakra BG In August 2016, Green Balkans expert attended mini-workshop for unusual high mortality of harbour porpoises in the western Black Sea organized by TUDAV foundation, Turkey in Limankoy, Turkey. Since February 2016, Green Balkans NGO in partnership with TUDAV Foundation, Turkey have started project BLACK SEA WATCH aiming at promoting citizen science for the Black Sea. Website BLACKSEAWATCH.ORG and mobile app for Android and Apple are developed and free accessible for upload of information on sightings of different marine organisms including cetaceans. Up to now highest activity has been for submission of data on stranded cetaceans. Building capacities of Bulgarian Black Sea municipalities on Cetaceans stranding. Full information for the project, including summary, final report and outcome products are available on the website of ACCOBAMS Part of the project was implemented into the reviewed period. 5. NGO Balkani Wildlife Society projects and activities Dolphins and people- living together in the sea. Performer of the project is NGO Balkani Wildlife Society. The project aims to study the damages caused to fishermen, apply pilot introduction of acoustic deterrent devices (pingers), which aim to reduce the number of damages caused by cetaceans on fishing activities and fishing gears, and to contribute to the conservation of the population of cetaceans via reducing the incidences of entangled specimens. The project runs from 2014 until now as is still ongoing as has been performed in consecutive field seasons. Main results of the project are minimizing entanglement and death cases of cetaceans in selected fishing gear and vice versa reducing damages to fishing activities and fishing gear caused by dolphins. 6. Master/PhD thesis running under the period July 2013-August 2016 Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, Biological Faculty Methodological aspects in cetaceans survey within the Bulgarian aquatory of Black Sea PhD dissertation (Zornica Zaharieva) The purpose of the dissertation is testing of different methodics, which are using regarding survey and conservation of cetaceans in Bulgarian aquatory of Black Sea-e.g. acoustic deterrent devices (pingers), walking via line transects on the coastline for searching of carcasses, survey via vessels through set methodology. Biology and ethology of cetaceans in Black Sea PhD dissertation (Violeta Evtimova) This dissertation includes survey regarding carcasses allocation, as giving account of their standard morphometric measures via usage of line transects on the coastline, collecting of toxicological samples and their analysis, collecting of teeth with the purpose of determine of the age, surveillance and recording the behavior of cetaceans from coastal vantage points and via vessels. 17

18 Cetaceans survey within the Gulf of Varna-MSc thesis (Kiril Valchev) The thesis consists of surveillance of seasonal dynamics of number, frequency of occurrence and density of cetaceans in Gulf of Varna. Cetaceans survey within the Pomorie Bay MSc thesis (Gergana Jozdemir) The thesis consists of surveillance of seasonal dynamics of number, frequency of occurrence and density of cetaceans in Pomorie Bay. Monitoring programmes Continuous monitoring programmes are implemented by Institute of Fish Resources - Varna, Bulgaria, Federation of Nature Conservation NGO's Green Balkans and Ministry of Environment and Water Bulgaria 19. Relevant bibliographical references work 20. Bilateral or multilateral cooperation programmes 1. Institute of Oceanology-Bulgarian Academy of Science BG-RO Cooperative bilateral project BRS-24 (Ministry of Education and Science, National Science Fund) The knowledge of the state and of the evolutionary tendencies of the main gregarious species stocks in the Romanian and Bulgarian marine area, with the aim of harmonizing their evaluation methods and sustainable exploitation measures, duration Project leader Dr.V.Raykov (IO-BAS) and Dr.Ionel Staicu (NIMRD) Objectives: State of fish species in both areas, opportunistic surveys on cetaceans, by catch and adverse effects of fisheries on cetaceans etc. 21. Measures related to the Resolutions of the Meetings of the Parties 1. Institute of Oceanology-Bulgarian Academy of Science Recommendation GFCM/37/2013/2 on the establishment of a set of minimum standards for bottom-set gillnet fisheries for turbot and conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea: PART IV Fisheries management measures for the mitigation of marine mammals' by-catch 5. In order to mitigate the impact of bottom-set gillnet fisheries on marine mammals' populations, Members and cooperating non-members of GFCM shall ensure that monofilament or twine diameter shall not exceed 0.5 mm. Monofilament or twines shall be assessed when unfrozen. Monofilament of twines within a mesh that are broken or have been repaired shall not be selected 6. Members and cooperating non-members of GFCM should set up adequate monitoring in order to collect reliable information on the impact that bottom-set gillnets targeting picked dogfish have on cetaceans' populations in the Black Sea ( 18

19 1. Name of Party: ;CROATIA CROATIA 2. Period covered by this report: Triennium Focal Point Full name: Ana Štrbenac Organization: Croatian Agency for the Environment and Nature Function: Head of the Expertise Division Address: Radnička cesta 80 City: Zagreb ZIP Code: Country: CROATIA Telephone: Fax: Definition of the areas under national jurisdiction included in the Agreement s field of application (over which the Agreement applies 5. If the Party is a member of an organization of economic integration, please insert here the name of the organisation Eu Member State (since 01 July 2013) 6. Signature/Ratification Date when the Party signed, ratified, accepted, approved or joined the ACCOBAMS: (YYYY-MM-DD) Signed: Ratified: Accepted: Joined: 7. Ratification of amendments Amendment of Article 2 of the Conservation Plan concerning the driftnets (Resolution 3.10), Date of ratification: Amendment concerning the extension of the ACCOBAMS geographical scope (Resolution A4.1), Date of ratification: 8. Reservations: 9. National bodies: National Authorities: - Ministry of Environmental and Nature Protection is the competent authority for the enviroment and nature protection, performing primarily administrative and enforcement tasks in environmental and nature protection. Directorate for Nature Protection is the unit of the Ministry responsible for performing administrative tasks related to the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats, sustainable use of natural resources, protection of natural areas, landscape diversity and geodiversity in accordance with international agreements & domestic legislation on nature protection, primarily Nature Protection Act (OG 80/13). Among all it is responsible for designation of natural values (wild taxa, areas of special protection, minerals & fossils) -preparation of laws & by laws -giving approval to the protected areas management plans -adoption of species management plans -issuing nature protection requirements & permissions for scientific research -preparation of the National Biodiversity Strategy nad Action Plan etc. More information: Croatian Agency for the Environment and Nature (CAEN) is a public institution set up by Decree of the Croatian Government in September CAEN is legal successor of the State 19

20 Institute for Nature Protection. CAEN's departments that deal with nature protection are defined as a public service for expertise work in nature protection in Croatia. Their tasks include -among all- organization and implementation of biodiversity inventorying and monitoring including organisation of national stranding network -operationalization of nature protection information system -preparation of background studies and proposals for designation of natural values (wild taxa, areas of special conservation value, minerals and fossils) -preparation of species management plans -coordination of red list preparation -undertaking of education and information campaigns -preparation of the national report on the state and the protection of nature etc. More information: Public Institutions for Management of Protected Areas: In Croata there are 19 Public Institutions for Management of Protected Areas at national level (PI for management of national and nature parks established by Government), 21 Public Institutions for Management of Protected Areas on regional level (20 established by Counties and 1 established by City of Zagreb) and 7 Public Institutions for Management of Protected Areas at local level. - Other relevant state institutions: Ministry of Agriculture - Directorate of Fisheries, Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Transport and Infrastructure Research Organisations: - Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FVM) in Zagreb is involved in data collection on population dynamics, distribution, behaviour and strandings of cetaceans in Croatian part of Adriatic Sea. - Croatian Natural History Museum (CNHM) in partnership with Blue World has been involved in the research activities. CNHM is also a central depositor of the national natural-history collections, and in this capacity keeps samples of the stranded animals. Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs): - Blue World Institute of Marine Research (BWI) and Conservation is a Civil Society Organisation (CSO) that carries out research (encounter rates, density and population estimates, acoustic disturbance, genetics, behaviour, habitat selection etc.), conservation and educational activities in the Croatian part of Adriatic, especially in the area of Lošinj archipelago. More information: The Association of Environmental Protection "Val" in cooperation with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine carries out research of sea mammals in the Adriatic Sea, in particularly research on their geographical and temporal distribution, health condition and cause of death, gender and age structure, morphological and genetic characteristics, and nutrition. They also provide education for students, tourists, and inhabitants of the Croatian islands and coastal region about sea mammals. More information: Rescue Centres for Cetaceans: 10. Legislation/Regulation Date: 04/12/13 Title: Ordinance on strictly protected species (OG 144/2013) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 09/10/2013 Title: Regulation on Ecological Network (OG 124/2013; 105/2015) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 28/06/13 Title: Environmental Protection Act (OG 80/2013; 78/2015) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 01/07/13 Title: Marine Fishery Act (OG 81/2013) Authority: Ministry of Agriculture Date: 10/05/2013 Title: Maritime Code (OG 181/04,76/07,146/08,61/11, 56/13) Authority: Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Trans Date: 19/06/09 Title: Ordinance on the conditions for holding, methods of marking - keeping records on protected animals in captivity (OG 70/09) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 30/09/09 Title: Ordinance on the appropriate assessment of the impact of plans, programmes/projects on the ecological network (OG 118/09) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 23/06/09 Title: Ordinance on the cross-border movement/trade in protected species (OG 72/09, 143/10, 87/12) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 06/07/2013 Title: Nature Protection Act (OG 80/2013) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 09/10/1996 Title: Ordinance on the amount of damages caused by illegal action on the protected animal 20

21 species (OG 84/1996, 79/2002) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur Date: 31/12/2009 Title: Ordinance on the Level of the Compensation of the Damage caused with Unlawful Activities Regarding the Protected Animal Species (OG 158/2009) Authority: Ministry of Environmental and Natur 11.Relevant International Conventions and Agreements Convention/Agreement Signature Ratification Entry into force Convention on Biological Diversity /10/1996 Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn, - 01/10/ ) Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Berne, 1979) /11/2000 United Nations Convention on the Law of - 05/04/1995 the Sea (Montego Bay, 1982) Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment and the Coastal - 08/10/1991 Region of the Mediterranean (Barcelona, 1976) Protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas and Biological Diversity in the - 12/05/2002 Mediterranean (Barcelona, 1995) Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora - 12/06/2000 (CITES - Washington, 1973) International Convention for the - 10/01/2007 Regulation of Whaling (Washington, 1946) Agreement on Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks(1995) General Fisheries Commission for the - 22/05/1995 Mediterranean La Commission Internationale pour l'exploration Scientifique de la Méditerranée OSPAR Convention for the protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic Annex V concerning the protection and conservation of ecosystems and Biological Diversity of the Maritime Area (OSPAR Convention) 12.Networks set up for monitoring cetacean strandings CAEN organises and runs national Alerting and monitoring system for captured, dead, injured and sick animals of strictly protected species. In the frame of this System, during 2010, the Protocol for strictly protected marine species (mammals, turtles and cartilaginous fish) was developed and national stranding network started to be operational. At the moment, the national network involves 11 entitled veterinary ambulances and stations on the coast and islands, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FVM), Croatian Veterinary Institute (CVI), Marine Educational Center Pula (MEC) etc. All strandings are reported to the National Protection and Rescue Directorate (National and County 112 Centres) which operates 24/7. Information is that way directly forwarded to the entitled Veterinary ambulances or stations. The veterinarian is obligated to go to the field and provide hygienic and sanitary care of the animal, and 21