Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania (English) by MEDASSET

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania JANUARY 2012

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

AUTHORS Dr. Michael White (lead author), Liza Boura, Kostis Grimanis, Lily Venizelos

Chapter: TABLE OF CONTENTS

MEDASSET ‐ Mediterranean Association to Save the Sea Turtles. c/o 24, Park Towers, 2 Brick St., London W1J 7DD, UK 1c Licavitou St., 106 72 Athens, Greece, Tel/Fax: + 30 210 3613572 medasset@medasset.org www.medasset.org www.euroturtle.org CONTRIBUTORS & REVIEWERS With special thanks for reviews and contributions from: Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Bego (Albanian Association for the Protection of Birds and Mammals; Tirana University), Prof. Dr. Eglantina Bruci (UNDP Climate Change Programme), Mr. Xhovalin Cali (Fisheries specialist), Dr. Zamir Dedej (Institute of Nature Conservation in Albania), Mr. Abdulla Diku (PSEDA ‐ ILIRIA organisation), Dr.vet. Vath Gabili (Fishery inspector), Mr. Jak Gjini (EIRLA Association), Ms. Drita Grishoj (Agency of Environment and Forestry), Ms Lira Hakani (EDEN Centre), Mr. Ermal Halimi (Head of Fauna, Flora and Soil Sector, MoEFWA), Mr. Enio Haxhimihali (Albanian Lawyers for Environment Protection), Prof. Dr. Idriz Haxhiu (Vitrina University; Herpetofauna Albanian Society), Mr. Bledi Hoxha (PPNEA), Mr. Rezart Kapedani (Regional Environmental Centre‐ REC), Ms. Ermelinda Mahmutaj (EDEN Center), Mr. Niko Mihali (local NGO Permet), Ms. Marina Mitro (Tirana University), Mr. Atef Ouerghi (RAC/SPA), Ms. Vilma Piroli (Tirana University), Mrs. Zaira Poga (Institute of Public Health, "Albanian Environmental Woman Association", "PRO MJEDISIT"), Ms. Elvana Ramaj (Nature Protection Policies Directorate, MoEFWA), Dr. Merita Rumano (Directorate of Environmental Impact Assessment and Licensing, MoEFWA), Mr. Enerit Saçdanaku (Vlora University), Mr. Kliti Starja (Agency of Environment and Forestry), Mr. Bekim Trezhnjevna (Tirana University), Mr. Denik Ulqini (“RAINBOW” Association). ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This document was produced under the auspices the Barcelona Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Region of the Mediterranean and the Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA) of the United Nations Environment Programme Mediterranean Action Plan (UNEP/MAP); thanks to the financial support of the MAVA Foundation and the collaboration of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration (MoEFWA), that enabled a deliberation and feedback process among relevant stakeholders during July‐December 2011, which included a stakeholder consultation workshop on October 24th 2011 in Tirana. Special thanks to all the reviewers for their comments, to Atef Ouerghi (RAC/SPA) for his valuable advice and to Elvana Ramaj (MoEFWA) for her valuable support in the stakeholder meeting organisation and the formulation of the Action Plan. Thanks also to Marina Mitro and Enerit Saçdanaku for voluntarily helping during the stakeholder meeting organisation. We would also like to thank the co‐funders of the research and capacity‐building project “Monitoring and Conservation of Important Sea Turtle Feeding Grounds in the Patok Area of Albania 2008‐10” which laid the groundwork for the drafting of this document: the Global Environment Facility’s Small Grant Programme (GEF/SGP), RAC/SPA, UNEP/MAP, the British Chelonia Group (BCG), the J.F. Costopoulos Foundation (Greece), the Spear Charitable Trust (UK) and the Panton Trust (UK). The 2008‐10 project was implemented in collaboration with the University of Tirana, Herpetofauna Albanian Society, Adnan Menderes University (Turkey) and ECAT–Tirana (Environmental Centre for Administration & Technology). Photos in Annex 1 (unless otherwise stated): © 2008‐2010 MEDASSET, photos: M.White Please reference as: MEDASSET (2012) Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania. White M, Boura L, Grimanis K, Venizelos L. Athens, Greece. 38pp. P Think before you print. Reduce paper consumption: this document is designed for double‐sided printing.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Chapter: TABLE OF CONTENTS

Founded in 1988 and with roots going back to 1983, MEDASSET ‐ Mediterranean Association to Save the Sea Turtles ‐ is an international environmental NGO registered as a charity and private company in the UK and as a Non Profit Organisation in Greece. MEDASSET plays an active role in the study and conservation of sea turtles and their habitats throughout the Mediterranean, through scientific research, environmental education, political lobbying and raising public awareness. Since 1988 the organisation has been a Permanent Observer‐member of the Bern Convention at the Council of Europe and Partner to the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) of UNEP. In 2009, MEDASSET was awarded Partner status for the implementation of UNEP’s Action Plan for the Conservation of Mediterranean Marine Turtles. UNEP/MAP (United Nations Environment Programme Mediterranean Action Plan) aims to assist the Mediterranean countries to assess and control marine pollution, to formulate their national environment policies, to improve the ability of governments to identify better options for alternative patterns of development and to optimize the choices for allocation of resources. RAC/SPA (Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas) was established by the contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention and its protocols, with the aim of assisting Mediterranean countries in the implementation of the Protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas in the Mediterranean. RAC/SPA’s mission is to assist the Parties in establishing and managing specially protected areas, conducting programmes of scientific and technical research, conducting the exchange of scientific and technical information between the Parties, preparing management plans for protected areas and species, developing cooperation programmes among the Parties, and preparing educational materials designed for various groups. The MAVA – Foundation engages in strong partnerships to conserve biodiversity for future generations. It was established in 1994 and is a family‐led, Swiss‐based philanthropic foundation with an exclusive focus on three focal regions: the Alpine Arc and Switzerland, the Mediterranean Basin and Coastal West Africa. In addition it also supports projects outside those regions and that address either extraordinary threats or exceptional conservation opportunities.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Chapter: TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................................................................... 4 ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 5 A. ACTION PLAN FOR THE CONSERVATION OF SEA TURTLES & THEIR HABITATS IN ALBANIA ............ 6 A.1. Goal .................................................................................................................................................. 6 A.2. Rationale for the Action Plan ........................................................................................................... 6 A.3. Objectives ......................................................................................................................................... 8 Rationale for the objectives ............................................................................................................. 8 A.4. Action Plan ........................................................................................................................................ 8 A.4.1. Actions Related to Objective 1: Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority. ........ 8 Objective 1 Rationale ....................................................................................................................... 8 Action 1A. Establishment of National Authority Responsible for Sea Turtle Conservation ............. 9 Action 1B. Establishment of Scientific Consultative Committee .................................................... 10 Action 1C. Inter‐institutional implementation of the Action Plan ................................................. 11 Action 1D. Education, Training and Awareness Raising ................................................................. 12 Sub‐Action 1Da. Academic and Professional Training .................................................................... 12 Sub‐Action 1Db. Primary and Secondary Education ...................................................................... 13 Sub‐Action 1Dc. Stakeholder Education ......................................................................................... 13 Sub‐Action 1Dd. Public Awareness Raising .................................................................................... 13 Action 1E. Legislation ..................................................................................................................... 14 A.4.2. Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats ....................... 14 Objective 2 Rationale ..................................................................................................................... 14 Action 2A. Research ........................................................................................................................ 14 Action 2B. Delineation of National Sea Areas ................................................................................ 16 Action 2C. Long‐term monitoring of change in sea turtle populations .......................................... 17 Action 2D. Creation of a national tagging database ....................................................................... 18 Action 2E. Creation of a stranding monitoring network ................................................................ 18 Action 2F. Sea turtle medicine development and establishment of a Rescue Centre ................... 19 Action 2G. Issue and suspension of Permits .................................................................................. 20 A.4.3. Actions Related to Objective 3: Identification and mitigation of threats and impacts to sea turtles and their habitats ................................................................................................................ 21 Objective 3 Rationale ..................................................................................................................... 21 Action 3A. Terms for removal of sea turtles from the marine environment ................................ 21 Action 3B. Safe‐handling procedures for sea turtles ...................................................................... 22 Action 3C. Monitoring and reducing fisheries by‐catch, illegal fishing and illegal trade ............... 22 Action 3D. Pollution reduction and waste management ............................................................... 24 A.4.4. Actions Related to Objective 4: Identification of critical habitats, legal protection and establishment of a functional network of marine, coastal and estuarine protected areas. .......... 25 Objective 4 Rationale ..................................................................................................................... 25 A.5. Action Plan Implementation Table ................................................................................................. 27 B. ANNEXES ......................................................................................................................................... 33 B.1. Priority Actions Relevant to Albania from 2007 RAC/SPA Action Plan for the Conservation of Mediterranean Marine Turtles: ...................................................................................................... 33 B.2. Examples of malpractice and solutions .......................................................................................... 34 B.3. List of EU law relevant to sea turtle protection ............................................................................. 36 C. CITED LITERATURE .......................................................................................................................... 36

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

ABBREVIATIONS CCL: Curved Carapace Length CCW: Curved Carapace Width CITES: Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (1973) IUCN: International Union for the Conservation of Nature Action Plan: Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles & their Habitats in Albania MEDASSET: Mediterranean Association to Save the Sea Turtles MoEFWA: Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration QΝΟD: Qendra Ndërinstitucionale Operacionale Detare (Inter‐institutional Maritime Operational Centre) REA: Regional Environmental Agency RAC/SPA: Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas UNEP‐MAP: United Nations Environment Programme‐Mediterranean Action Plan

Chapter: ABBREVIATIONS

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

A. ACTION PLAN FOR THE CONSERVATION OF SEA TURTLES & THEIR HABITATS IN ALBANIA A.1.

Goal

The long‐term aim of the proposed Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles & their Habitats in Albania is the conservation and viability of sea turtles in Albanian seas and that these endangered species and their habitats are fully protected under Albanian national law. Specific aims: 1. To enhance the national authority responsible for sea turtles and their habitats. 2. To determine the temporal and geographical distribution of sea turtles in Albania. 3. To understand how the sea turtle populations in Albania change over time. 4. To identify impacts to sea turtles and their habitats; and take mitigating measures. 5. To contribute to the global and regional efforts to conserve sea turtles.

Chapter: ACTION PLAN FOR THE CONSERVATION OF SEA TURTLES & THEIR HABITATS IN ALBANIA

A.2.

Rationale for the Action Plan

Marine turtles are emblematic flagship species that inspire coastal and marine conservation, and fascinate people that view them as the symbol for all enigmatic oceanic creatures. They are also regarded as a “keystone or indicator” species and their extinction should cause serious concern regarding the health of the oceans. Their intricate biological cycle makes them an “umbrella” species for conservation, as their protection leads to the preservation of multiple habitats and linked ecosystems. They are migratory throughout their lives, utilising different habitats at different life‐stages, and these habitats occur transnationally in different range states, making sea turtles a shared resource. In order to avoid extinction, marine turtles require protection at all life‐stages and throughout their habitats and migratory corridors. As marine turtles are long‐lived animals, with delayed maturity, these protective measures are required for many decades. Human activities are the greatest threat to sea turtles and their habitats, while they are also likely to be adversely affected by impending climate change1. Three of the seven species of sea turtles are found throughout the Mediterranean. The loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green turtles (Chelonia mydas) nest in the Mediterranean, and the giant leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) is an occasional visitor. Kemp’s Ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) is a very rare migrant from Mexico2. It is estimated that only about 339‐360 green and 2.280‐2.787 loggerhead nest annually in the Mediterranean3. Marine turtles are classified under the IUCN Red List4 as being: i) Endangered [EN]: loggerhead (Caretta caretta); green (Chelonia mydas). ii) Critically Endangered [CR]: leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea); hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata); Kemp’s Ridley (Lepidochelys kempii). Albania has approved these classifications (order of the Minister, no 146 dated 05/08/2007 ‘On Approval of the Red List of Flora and Fauna’). Protecting sea turtles and their habitats in the territory under its sovereignty is an obligation that Albania has explicitly committed to through a number of regional and international Conventions that include provision for the protection of sea turtles and their habitats: iii) iv)

Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats 19/IX/1979. Ratified in National Law 8294, 02/03/1998. Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals 23/VI/1979. Acceded to in National Law 8692, 16/11/2000.

Poloczanska et al. 2009 Tomas et al. 2003 3 Broderick et al.2002 4 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2011.2. www.iucnredlist.org 2

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

vi)

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES 1973). Acceded to in National Law 9021, 06/03/2003. Barcelona Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Region of the Mediterranean (1976); and the Protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas and Biological Diversity in the Mediterranean (1995); and the Action Plan for the conservation of sea turtles in the Mediterranean established within the framework of the Barcelona Convention (1976), by Protocol in 1989 and updated in 1999 and 2007 (UNEP‐MAP RAC/SPA 2007) ratified by Law no. 8690, 16.11.2000 "On the accession of Albania to the Convention on protection of the marine environment and coastal zone of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as 6 accompanying Protocols."

Albania has made substantial progress towards its stabilisation and is aiming to comply with the requirements of the acquis communautaire5 in light of its application in 2009 for accession to the European Union. The adoption and implementation of the Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania, will directly contribute to the implementation of the above Conventions and will be a step forward toward compliance with the requirements of the European environmental policies and legislation. Marine turtles have been studied for more than 3 decades in the Mediterranean6; the presence of marine turtles in Albanian waters has been known since at least 19607. Recently, research has been conducted by the Herpetofauna Albanian Society (H.A.S.): “Marine Turtle Conservation: Protection, public awareness and tagging, 2002‐2007”; and by MEDASSET: “A Rapid Assessment Survey of important Marine Turtle and Monk Seal habitats in the coastal area of Albania, 2005” and “Monitoring and Conservation of Important Sea Turtle Feeding Grounds in the Patok Area of Albania, 2008‐2010”8. This research has confirmed that marine turtles use the nearshore and offshore coastal waters of Albania throughout the year9 and that Drini Bay is now known to host a substantial population of loggerhead turtles and more rarely green turtles. The present document presents the roadmap for the conservation and management of the species and their habitats in Albania, based on the results of the above projects which have robustly and scientifically demonstrated that Albania does host important sea turtle populations and habitats; and through the study of the institutional and legal framework in Albania in order to determine sea turtle conservation policies already in place. Albania lacks a National Action Plan or specific legislation for the protection of sea turtles and their critical habitats. Specific mention to sea turtles is only made in order Nr. 146 (Approval of Red List of flora and fauna; 8. 5. 2007) which recognises them as endangered. A recommendation of the “Action plan for the conservation of Mediterranean marine turtles” (UNEP/MAP RAC/SPA 2007) is that such legislation should be implemented. However the present document does not propose the creation of new laws but focuses on the creation of mechanisms and institutions to implement specific actions, and suggests that existing legislation, which is comprehensive and well‐written, could easily be extended to provide the legal framework for the effective protection of these endangered species and their habitats. These laws include: Biodiversity and Wildlife laws; Fisheries and Aquaculture laws, Fishery regulation #1; and numerous veterinary laws. At present these laws do not explicitly refer to marine turtles, however, they do provide a framework for prevention of harm to wild animals; migratory species; habitat protection; permit issuance, inspection and control of research activities; and enforcement and penalties for infringement. These laws can be extended by regulation by the relevant Authority. 5

See Annex 3 for a list of EU Directives relevant to sea turtle protection Groombridge, 1990; Margaritoulis et al. 2003 7 Zeko & Puzanoi 1960; Haxhiu 1979, 1980, 1981, 1985, 1995, 1998, 2010; Groombridge 1990; Haxhiu & Rumano 2005, 2006. 8 A joint project in collaboration with ECAT‐Tirana (2008) and HAS (2009) 9 White et al. 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 6

Chapter: Rationale for the Action Plan

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

A.3.

Objectives

In order to achieve the strategic goal and aims, the following four objectives are identified:  Objective 1. Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority.  Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats  Objective 3. Identification and mitigation of threats to sea turtles and their habitats  Objective 4. Identification of critical habitats, legal protection and establishment of a functional network of marine, coastal and estuarine protected areas. Rationale for the objectives Given the long‐living nature of the species, the policies and institutions implementing the objectives and action plan need to have a long‐term and incessant nature. The proposed objectives and actions form a baseline and starting point for implementing sea turtle conservation in Albania. Once these have been implemented the objectives and subsequent action plan should be reviewed. The period of implementation of the proposed action plan should be defined by the relevant authorities and stakeholder. The action plan will have to pursue the objectives through implementation of conservation actions at both the local and national level: actions at these levels will have to be collaborative and coordinated in order for them to be mutually reinforcing. At the local level, areas identified as important habitats or sources of negative impacts should receive additional attention. Ideally, the leading role in implementing actions should be carried out by the local community and local authorities, operating under central guidance and coordination. Successful cases should serve as demonstration sites that the whole country can cherish as emblematic of the national endeavour to protect the marine environment. So at the national level, protecting the sea turtle should be promoted as a national effort, involving everyone, to restore and protect the marine environment.

A.4.

Action Plan

The four objectives can be met through the implementation of the following actions, which also include sub‐actions where necessary. These are also presented in a tabular format in Section A.5.

Chapter: Objectives

A.4.1. Actions Related to Objective 1: Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority.

Objective 1 Rationale The imperative of conserving sea turtles in Albanian national waters must be clearly adopted as a national priority and should overarch the specific actions. Conservation will only be secured if a significant portion of the Albanian civil society and decision makers attribute an important value to the protection of sea turtles and the marine environment and if saving the species from extinction and protecting their habitats against the negative impacts of human development can be promoted as the essence of reversing the devastating trend of biodiversity loss in the Mediterranean, Albania included. The political leaders at a national and local level will need to communicate sea turtle and marine environment protection as a central goal and add it to the political agenda. Commitment and prioritisation by the decision makers is essential for the action plan to have a true impact and be implemented. The legislative and institutional frameworks will have to be structured in such a way as to ensure effective implementation of conservation measures. Orders and regulations can introduce the proposed new institutions and measures. Future legislation (e.g. adoption of E.U. Directives) should also integrate sea turtle conservation. Informing and educating the public and stakeholders is fundamental in ensuring acceptance, collaboration and enforcement of laws. To this end, a number of initiatives, such as awareness campaigns, workshops and education programmes targeting all levels of society are necessary.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Action 1A. Establishment of National Authority Responsible for Sea Turtle Conservation The national authority responsible for sea turtle protection should be an official government body with decision‐making powers to implement regulatory measures, ensure compliance, monitor success or failure, promote policies to improve implementation, and necessary legislative changes. The authority currently responsible for sea turtles and their habitats is the Department for Biodiversity, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration (MoEFWA). It acts as the focal point for the International Conventions to which Albania is party to: in particular the Bonn Convention (1979); Bern Convention (1979); CITES (1973); Barcelona Convention (1976) and its Protocols: SPA/BD and Sea Turtle Action Plan (1989, 1999, 2007); Convention on Biological Diversity (1993); and in the future shall be responsible for the application of the E.U. environmental policies and legislation (e.g. Habitats Directive, etc). The Department for Biodiversity can be appointed as the National Authority responsible for sea turtle protection, with the following responsibilities: RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Hold national responsibility for the protection of sea turtles and their habitats throughout Albania and its territorial waters. 2. Apply policies, action plans and management strategies drawn by the MoEFWA related to the protection of sea turtles and their habitats; ensure their implementation, assess compliance and act upon instances of non‐compliance; and ensure that national status updates are reported to international conventions. 3. Coordinate all the relevant entities that have duties and responsibilities to protect marine and coastal areas, including marine species, for the implementation of the Action Plan. 4. Secure the necessary funding to facilitate the implementation of the Action Plan for the conservation of sea turtles and their habitats. Funds would be required to initiate the following: ongoing monitoring and research, management of protected areas, a research institute, development of conservation activities, provision of tags and tagging equipment etc. Collaboration with other ministries and departments will be essential when inter‐institutional actions and funding are necessary, e.g. development of tertiary level academic courses. 5. Develop transnational protective measures, especially in those sea areas that border other countries (specifically Montenegro, Italy and Greece) so that migratory sea turtles are protected throughout their range and at all life‐stages; this will contribute directly to the Mediterranean regional effort to conserve sea turtles. 6. Develop National Guidelines covering the handling, capture and release, transportation, rescue and recuperation of marine turtles; and define the appropriate criteria and qualifications for potential researchers; and approval, monitoring, and permitting of research activities involving protected species; and provide a clear line‐of‐authority for the reporting and oversight of these activities, (which may be prohibited or suspended at any time: ‘Protection of wild fauna’ Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008). 7. In order to establish an ongoing national monitoring programme the National Authority should authorise (as per ‘Protection of wild fauna’ Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008) qualified researchers from government institutions, universities, organisations and relevant NGOs to conduct sea turtle research and implement conservation measures in accordance with the National Sea Turtle Action Plan. Such research can include an integrated monitoring programme that addresses potential threats such as climate change. It should provide researchers and their parent institutions with clear guidelines for their work, responsibilities, and state the deliverables and outputs required from each project.

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 1: Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority.

Environmental education programmes envisaged in national Albanian Law (“On the Albanian Coast Guard”, nr. 8875, dated 04/04/2002 amended; “Protection of wild fauna” Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008) need to be actively developed and delivered.

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 1: Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

8. Procure flipper‐tags10 that are of a design that minimises the risk of entanglement in fishing 11 gear . These should be added to the international Tag Inventory (http://accstr.ufl.edu/taginv.html). The authority should distribute the tags to approved researchers and issue clear guidelines for the application of tags (See Appendix II in UNEP MAP RAC/SPA, 2007). The advised practice is to apply two tags per animal (i.e. ‘double‐tagging’) in order to minimise the problem of tag‐loss12. 9. Maintain the national‐database for monitoring and tagging marine turtles; and, ideally, produce an annual or biannual report that global sea turtle researchers can access (e.g. either via an exclusive national website or www.moe.gov.al, an international one such as www.seaturtle.org, or OBIS: Ocean Biogeographic Information System Spatial Ecological Analysis of Megavertebrate Populations http://seamap.env.duke.edu). Marine turtles found bearing tags that were applied in other countries or regions can be reported to the appropriate organisation (see http://accstr.ufl.edu/taginv.html or ‘Tag Finder’ at www.seaturtle.org) 10. Establish a fisheries by‐catch reporting system of live or dead turtles; especially those that have been previously tagged. (See Action 2E). This could be incorporated into the national monitoring database (point 9 above). 11. Ensure that a national network for reporting incidental strandings or sightings of sea turtles is established (e.g. a telephone ‘hotline’ or a website‐based emailing form). The relevant authorised organisations (see point 7) should be provided with support and training regarding the reporting system. 12. Guide, support, and provide technical assistance to Regional Environment Agencies and fisheries inspectors in order to implement the Sea Turtle Action Plan; and require that local government administers the rules and regulations relevant in their areas of jurisdiction. 13. Develop educational programmes, working with other ministries, in order to raise awareness of sea turtles, their presence in Albania, and the threats that impact upon them; especially anthropogenic pollution (‘Protection of wild fauna’ Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008). Approve sea turtle–related training courses with the guidance of the Consultative Committee. Appoint, and keep under review, national providers for sea turtle–related education. 14. Compile and maintain a National Register of approved scientists, inspectors, organisations, research institutes and associated NGOs that are authorised to work with, or conduct research on sea turtles or other protected species. This register should be periodically updated. 15. Provide the information for the sections relevant to sea turtle conservation for the National Reports that are required to be sent to the relevant International Conventions. Action 1B. Establishment of Scientific Consultative Committee This committee should advise and guide the national authority responsible for the protection of sea turtles and their habitats. Its membership could be widened to advise on other threatened fauna, such as cetaceans, sharks, and seals (phocids). It can also provide specialists to fulfil the role of scientific representation to the relevant International Conventions. It should consist of a panel of specialists, representatives of enforcement agencies (e.g. Border Police, Coast Guard, etc) and NGO representatives with proven expertise from the following fields:  Marine Biology and Zoology  Physical and Chemical Oceanography; Hydrobiology  Biogeography  Climate change  Genetics  Microbiology  Biodiversity  Fisheries  Tourism  Integrated Coastal Zone Management  Sustainable Development 10

Ideally Stockbrand’s titanium tags, or inconel tags from an appropriate supplier Suggett and Houghton 1998 12 Balazs 1999 11

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Waste Management and Water Resources Protected Area Management Wildlife Management Veterinary Medicine; in particular the National Veterinary Service International and environmental law (e.g. Ministry of Justice) Environmental conservation and environmental education

Action 1C. Inter‐institutional implementation of the Action Plan In terms of implementing specific legislation that will provide full protection for sea turtles at all life stages and their habitats throughout Albania and its territorial waters, including when these form part of a migratory route, it is likely that relevant rules and regulations issued by the MoEFWA will be the most expedient. These should be framed in such a way as to ensure that the procedures and activities of lower levels of authority are in alignment with Albania’s national aims and international obligations (RAC/SPA 2003; UNEP‐MAP RAC/SPA 2007). In common with many other countries, jurisdiction for Albania’s coastal waters and the land/sea divide spanned two authorities: the Coast Guard having responsibility for the maritime space, and the Ministry of Environment for protected areas and endangered species. The decision of the Council of Ministers: Nr. 954 dated 30/09/2009 determines the “Structure, organisation and function of the Inter‐institutional Maritime Operational Centre (QNOD); its interaction with state institutions; and interests in the sea”. QNOD is an inter‐institutional coordination structure that functions in accordance with the Albanian legal framework, and which assigns the primary responsibility for managing the maritime space to the Ministry of Interior and the Albanian border control, along with other ministries, which have different authority in the sea. QNOD coordinates operations, resources, manpower etc. from the various organisations and institutions involved. It is recognised that QNOD is a new structure, and that its resources are limited at present; however, it is expected that this organisation will be in alignment with and be able to implement the relevant European Community legislation. One of the functions of QNOD is that, in concert with the MoEFWA, it can coordinate: i) Naval operations to control the implementation of fisheries legislation. ii) Operations to prevent and protect the marine environment from pollution. RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER THE ACTION PLAN: These powers can be actively applied to minimise the anthropogenic impacts on sea turtles and their habitats, specifically:  to prevent the illegal use of explosives for fishing;  to ensure that trawling operations (‘trata’) do not occur within 3 nautical miles of the coast (or shallower than the 40‐metre isobath);  to prevent pollutants from entering the sea, particularly: chemicals, sewage effluent, and solid waste; including via riverine, terrestrial or marine sources. QNOD can utilise and co‐ordinate resources from other relevant sources and organizations. The following institutions have powers and perform duties in the coastal marine area: (Law nr.9251, dated 08/07/2004 "Maritime Code of the Republic of Albania")  Ministry of Finance (24‐hour presence of Customs);  Ministry of Interior (24‐hour presence of Border Police and Migration);  Ministry of Defence (24‐hour presence of Coast Guard);  Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration (24‐hour presence of Inspectorate of Fisheries);  Ministry of Public Works and Transport (co‐ordinating capacity as needed);  Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Protection (co‐ordinating capacity as needed);  Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports (co‐ordinating capacity as needed).

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 1: Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority.

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Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 1: Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority.

Action 1D. Education, Training and Awareness Raising

Sub‐Action 1Da. Academic and Professional Training Albania has a coastline of approximately 476 km that borders the Ionian and the Adriatic Seas; yet there is no Oceanic Institute, National Aquarium, nor university in the country offering degree courses in the marine sciences, particularly in the natural sciences. This lack is compounded by the fact that there are very few marine biologists, although there are hydrobiologists and fishery specialists; and very few opportunities for employment in these professions. Also there is little expertise in marine research; this has a direct effect on sea turtles in Albania, because their presence nationally is entirely in the marine environment; nesting has not been reported from the country. As a consequence of this lack the coastal zone is very poorly managed: there is no Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) organisation in place, although there have been some early studies (e.g. World Bank); unplanned, illegal, or unsustainable development is widespread; anthropogenic pollution is ubiquitous; and there is a culture of apathy towards the environment. 1. A feasibility study should be conducted to identify suitable universities and technical colleges that are capable of delivering courses in:  Marine sciences  Management and care of animals in captivity  Wildlife management and protected areas  ICZM & Marine Protected Areas  Sustainable development and planning  Environmental Impact Assessment  Waste management  Environmental Law, especially in the coastal zone  Specialist courses for staff of rescue or First‐aid centres  Research‐techniques e.g. MRes (Master of Research)  Tourism and sustainable (coastal) development (e.g. Korçe University www.unkorce.edu.al) 2. Tertiary level courses should be delivered by professional sea turtle or marine biologists, or similarly qualified academics (usually PhD). Lecturers should possess detailed knowledge of sea turtles, and practical handling skills; and have a clear understanding of the threats facing endangered species. 3. The greatest regard should be paid to promoting best practices and safe‐handling skills that prevent further harm being caused to these already‐endangered animals. 4. The National Sea Turtle Authority should appoint, and keep under review, national providers for sea turtle education. 5. All persons working with sea turtles should complete a training‐course delivered by professional sea turtle scientists and managers. An appropriate certificate of completion could be awarded to successful participants. 6. Training‐courses, which can be at different levels, should meet a national standard and be approved by the National Sea Turtle Authority, with the guidance of the Consultative Committee. Accreditation of courses should be agreed within the national scientific legislation. Each coastal region, through e.g. regional universities (such as University of Shkodra and of Vlora), could train, assess, and licence authorised sea turtle monitors and researchers. Establishment of a Marine Science Institute and Research Centre A research institute that includes marine and coastal research could be established with the following aims:  develop a multi‐disciplinary, multi‐institutional centre that supports and facilitates in‐depth research  act as an educational provider for universities and develop the scientific skills of tertiary‐level students  develop and deliver courses for stakeholder groups such as schools, teachers, coastal area managers, NGOs and persons who monitor turtles, or other threatened marine species, and/or participate in the stranding network and engage in public awareness campaigns  develop exchange‐student programmes with other countries and make the centre available to international researchers undertaking collaborative research

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Sub‐Action 1Db. Primary and Secondary Education 1. Encourage and promote courses in environmental awareness throughout the general education system (infant, primary, secondary and high schools). In the regions where environmental courses already exist that a new module on sea turtles and the marine environment be incorporated into the school curriculum. 2. Ensure that suitably‐trained teachers, tutors, and teaching assistants are widely available to deliver environmental education. Provide a teacher‐training module on marine habitats and sea turtles. 3. Encourage the use of school field‐days to reinforce the taught theory and raise awareness among the young generation. Sub‐Action 1Dc. Stakeholder Education Educational workshops or programmes should be designed to train and influence specific target groups:  Fishermen (See also Point 2 of Action 3C)  Local Communities  Tourism Industry  Enforcement agencies  Regional environment authorities  School teachers  Specialised courses should be developed for Rescue and First‐aid Centres. A system of external monitoring and evaluation of the courses should be implemented: teaching quality assessments and reports on the level of satisfaction by course participants (i.e. feedback form). Cooperation with civil society should be a priority and include the establishment of environmental information centres. Sub‐Action 1Dd. Public Awareness Raising Awareness needs to be raised regarding the environment, the threats that species and habitats face in Albania and best practices for conservation. Care for endangered species, directions on minimisation of human impact as well as the value of volunteering for environmental conservation should be communicated to the public through media campaigns.

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 1: Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority.

 actively develop and deliver the environmental education programmes envisaged in national Albanian Law (“On the Albanian Coast Guard”, nr. 8875, dated 04/04/2002 amended; “Protection of wild fauna” Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008). Its functions can include advising governments on environmental issues, undertaking research on their behalf; developing long‐term monitoring programmes (e.g. sea turtles, or the effectiveness of mitigation measures for anthropogenic pollution); but also to incorporate the research and training activities for different Ministries (e.g. Tourism, Education, Veterinary and Environment). It should actively initiate, promote and develop a culture of legal compliance, including training the enforcement agencies and Judiciary in biological aspects and conserving protected species and their habitats. Preliminary actions:  Formulation of a working group  Investigation of the legal requirements for the establishment of the institute  Presentation of the institute to the relevant Ministries and members of the parliament  Investigation of funding opportunities (e.g. FP7; Life+; IPA etc.)  Development of strong links with the Prefectures and Regional Environment Agencies  Development of contacts in other countries  A research training module can be prepared and tested with students at the national universities (e.g. Tirana, Shkodra and Vlora): this is then a transferable skill and can be taught in other Faculties and Colleges); obtain all necessary approvals, documents, staffing, resources; and funding for this module.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Action 1E. Legislation As mentioned in the Rationale of the Action Plan, the present document suggests using the existing laws as the basis for the implementation of the suggested actions, through the adoption of regulations and orders that will lead to the constitution of the necessary institutions and the implementation of the proposed actions suggested in the Action Plan. Additionally, the Action Plan proposes that: the process of evaluation and compensation envisaged in Law no.10006, dated 23/10/2008 'On wild fauna protection’; Article 12 "Compensation of damage” be extended to include compensation to fishermen for damaged fishing nets as a result of confirmed sea turtle activity; the “Protection of wild fauna” Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008 should be amended so that migration and migratory routes includes marine migratory animals and their migratory corridors; at present it only refers to migratory birds. In addition, the management committee for the Karaburuni‐ Sazani Marine National Park must explicitly include the protection of sea turtles and their habitats within the Park’s Operational Guidelines (Government Decree no. 289, dated 28/04/2010 "On the proclamation as National Park of the Natural Marine Ecosystem around Karaburuni Peninsula and Sazani Island").

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats

A.4.2. Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats

Objective 2 Rationale Two species have been confirmed as presently using Albanian coastal waters: loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta (Linnaeus 1758) and green turtle Chelonia mydas (Linnaeus 1758). An oceanic species, the leatherback turtle Dermochelys coriacea, is known historically; there is one specimen in the Museum of Natural Sciences, Tirana University13; more recently (May 2004) an individual was captured by set‐net in Drini Bay14. A hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata was referred to as being captured off Albania15; although this species inhabits tropical coral reefs. There is a small possibility that a fifth species: Kemp’s Ridley Lepidochelys kempii may now be encountered in Mediterranean waters16. Albania presently has not reported turtle nesting‐activities; but there is clear evidence that sea turtles are present in national waters throughout the year17. Therefore, the Albanian authorities are placed in a position of having responsibility for sea turtles and several of their important habitats; and thus a rigorous research programme and conservation measures should be implemented in order to:  secure knowledge on the species ecology and biology  inform decision‐making  monitor population changes over time  identify changes in long‐term cyclical patterns such as hydro‐meteorology and geomorphology. Scientific data must be collected in parallel with management and conservation actions as both monitoring and acquiring additional understanding of the ecology of the species and the threats, will support the accomplishment of the strategic goal. Action 2A. Research Baseline data collection should be carried out in order to establish which coastal areas are most important for sea turtles in Albania with the aims: to gain knowledge, implement protection measures (also see Action 4) and establish permanent monitoring projects. Each of the individual research projects should follow a standardised research methodology; and be directed through site‐specific Work Plans with clear, measurable and achievable research goals and objectives. Training and involvement of volunteers and stakeholders should take place concurrently. 13

Zeko & Puzanoi 1960 Casale & Margaritoulis 2010 15 Casale & Margaritoulis 2010 16 Tomas et al. 2003 17 White et al. 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 14

Research proposals All research activities that involve protected species should be formally approved by the designated authority BEFORE the research programme begins work. The proposal should include:  Species of interest  Purpose of research  Duration of the research programme  Review of existing knowledge  Materials and Methods  Expected findings  Dissemination of results  Qualifications of researchers Research proposal approval Each proposal should be reviewed by the designated authority. The below list proposes the necessary points that should be considered and evaluated during the review process: 1. The proposed research should fit with the priorities set out by the National Sea Turtle Action Plan: a. Research addresses one of the priority areas listed in the Sea Turtle Action Plan (UNEP‐MAP, RAC/SPA 2007) b. The research assists Albania in achieving its national strategy and/or international obligations c. Other benefits or innovations will be derived from this research d. Sea turtles and/or their habitats are likely to benefit from this study e. Significant improvements to the conservation status of sea turtles will be achieved 2. Researchers can demonstrate: a. That they are suitably qualified b. That they understand the national legislation governing their research programme 3. The research plan explicitly provides for the well‐being of endangered species; and states how potentially harmful activities or practices, such as capture, forcibly restraining, or mishandling of a turtle, are minimised or avoided 4. If tagging of animals is intended researchers must: a. request appropriate‐sized tags from the National Authority b. provide evidence that the taggers have been trained to use the correct application procedures c. confirm that the guidelines for tagging turtles have been taken into account (Appendix II: UNEP‐ MAP, RAC/SPA 2007) 5. If fishermen or other stakeholders are to be involved: an awareness programme has been included in the proposal, which will ensure these community‐members understand the importance of conserving protected species. 6. If found acceptable: a. The National Veterinary Service, and relevant Regional and Local Authorities (Environmental and Fishery Inspectorates; ‘Protection of wild fauna’ Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008) should be notified of the research plan. b. An official should be nominated as the point‐of‐contact at the national authority; and will provide oversight for the project’s research activities; contact details should be communicated to the lead‐researcher. c. Approved researchers should be entered in the National Register of scientists qualified to work with endangered species. Research permit 1. Once a research proposal has been approved and its protocol number issued: the lead‐ researcher should complete a Memorandum of Understanding with the MoEFWA; following which an environmental research permit should be issued for each application. 2. The research permit should include:  named researchers  the period of study;  description of the permitted activities (e.g. handling animals; removal of turtles from the marine environment; tagging; on‐site assessment without handling.)

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats

 If permission to tag turtles is requested, then tagging is to be conducted in accordance with Appendix II of UNEP/MAP, RAC/SPA (2007); two tags per animal is optimal practice18. 3. The lead‐researcher is to be given a copy of the national guideline (see Action 1A, point 6). 4. When research staff are affiliated with universities or similar institutions there should also be a Memorandum of Understanding with their institution, whereby they agree to comply with the relevant rules and regulations governing the conduct of research activities; especially on protected species. 5. University students (undergraduate, BSc and MSc) should be the responsibility of their course‐ director or academic supervisor. In order to develop their academic capabilities, PhD candidates should follow the requirements of this chapter: i.e. submit a research proposal for approval which should be counter‐signed by their research supervisor. Recruiting future researchers: Having a clear organisational structure in place means that new sea turtle researchers can be recruited in the future. If qualified sea turtle scientists and managers do not exist in Albania, then applicants can be sourced internationally via www.seaturtle.org. A standardised application and selection process should be followed for prospective candidates that includes personal interviews (e.g. with Members of the Consultative Committee). Successful applicants will be accountable to the National Sea Turtle Authority; and be provided with the national guidelines for conducting and reporting their work. New professionals interested in marine conservation or environmental education could staff new structures proposed herein e.g. rescue centres, first‐aid stations, in well‐established field projects along the coast, in waste disposal and recycling facilities; thus contributing effectively to the aforementioned aims.

Action 2B. Delineation of National Sea Areas In order to provide an accurate picture of sea turtle distribution nationally, some method of comparing abundance, by‐catch levels and strandings is necessary. Designated Sea Areas provide a simple means of reporting this information. This allows captures or strandings of turtles to be allocated into the appropriate region; provides an overview for each Sea Area; the overall national distribution; and highlights any priority areas; such as high interaction with fisheries. Existing delineations can be used, such as the various Port Authorities, but other options may be preferred, adding or combining areas as needed. The 2008‐2010 research programme has used the following prefixes, which are listed from the north:

Balazs 1999

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

SH ‐ Shengjin PA

PA – Patok LA ‐ Lalezit

DU ‐ Durres DU

VL ‐ Vlore KA ‐ Karaburuni VL

SA – Sarande

KA SA

Figure 1. Map of Albania’s territorial coastal waters with suggested Sea Areas (map prepared with MapTool www.seaturtle.org)

Marine turtles have been reported or observed from all of the sea areas shown and mentioned above19. Substantial numbers of sea turtles have been confirmed as using Drini Bay, especially from sea area PA20. Incidental captures in fisheries have been reported from other sea areas, mainly SH, LA, DU & VL21. SH includes Velipoja; VL includes Spidhe, Divjaka and Seman. Action 2C. Long‐term monitoring of change in sea turtle populations Sea turtles are long‐lived animals and may not even reach maturity within the working life of a single human researcher; and so it is essential that these monitoring procedures and their underpinning organisation are sustainable over an extended period of time (UNEP‐MAP, RAC‐SPA 2007). Changes in the distribution and demography of sea turtles may require decades of monitoring, and so data‐ collection should conform to standard protocols so that management decisions are based on 19

White et al. 2006 Haxhiu 2010; White et al. 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 21 White et al 2006, 2009 20

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats

comparable research findings (Protection of wild fauna Law Nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008, esp. Art. 33; and Ch. VII). This also requires that new scientists and wildlife managers are trained to use this established methodology, and government departmental heads, responsible for biodiversity, endangered species, and protected habitats, remain up‐to‐date with the national status of sea turtles; and that these findings are included in the Focal Point reports at the Contracting Party or Focal Point meetings of the relevant Conventions. It is essential to monitor and protect turtles throughout their lives and in all of their habitats; 99% of which are in the marine environment. It is difficult to monitor turtles at sea and ship‐based surveys need to be carefully planned and require more funding in comparison to land‐based surveys. Specifically, in northern Albania, e.g. in Drini Bay, the underwater visibility is practically zero, because of the high inputs of riverine sediment22. Some of the research tools available for monitoring are: satellite‐ telemetry, population‐modelling, flipper‐tagging23, and genetic analyses. Once baseline data have been determined it is possible, and desirable, to assess how sea turtle populations are affected by the ever‐ increasing level of human impacts upon them and their habitats (See Objective 3).

Action 2D. Creation of a national tagging database A database that will record the tag numbers applied to turtles in Albania should be established. Additional information that should be included are:  name of individual who tagged each animal;  details of any tag‐changes;  date and place of release;  health status of the turtle;  mode of capture, or stranding.  Standardised morphometric data: CCL & CCW (curved carapace length and width)24. Recaptures are particularly important, and their incremental growth data should be reported; as this allows the life‐history of sea turtles to be better understood; our present knowledge of their marine ecology is very limited. Action 2E. Creation of a stranding monitoring network In order to gain a comprehensive national understanding of the presence of sea turtles and their habitats in Albania it is necessary to establish a monitoring and stranding network in all coastal areas; this can be co‐ordinated nationally and implemented regionally. Albania already has extensive organisations in place: government officials from national, regional and local councils; management committees for protected areas; game‐wardens, fishery‐inspectors, veterinary surgeons; there are also organisations, such as Fishermen’s Associations; NGOs; and Universities. These could be extended, following appropriate training, to gather and report data for sea turtles that are stranded upon the beaches or, especially in the cold winter periods, in the coastal lagoons, such as at Butrint. A standardised protocol should be developed. A national media campaign would also be required so that reports of sightings, strandings and captures are directed to the fishery inspectors, veterinary inspectorate and regional organisation: i.e. via a ’hotline’ (telephone & SMS) or website (e.g. http://www.euroturtle.org/turtlecode/report.htm and http://www.seaturtle.org/istor). Relevant NGOs can also be included in the stranding and monitoring network, but their qualifications and experience should be validated by the national or regional authorities; and the responsible persons 22

White et al. 2006 Tagging Programme: Presently limited to northern Albania, but this should be extended throughout the country, so that a true national picture can be obtained of the geographical and temporal distribution of sea turtles. 24 MEDASSET can provide an English version database, which could be adapted for national use. 23

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

permitted to work with endangered species (see Action 2A). If government funding is allocated for research and conservation activities a condition for the issue or renewal of their research permit is that they adhere to the national guidelines governing sea turtle research and monitoring; compliance should be regularly scrutinised. It should be a requirement that they attend an approved training course (see Action 1D), and that an annual report of their principal findings is submitted to the designated authority.

Arrangements should be made for qualified researchers to perform necropsies on dead turtles in order to ascertain the likely cause of death; and also for the safe disposal of the carcasses (biohazard). Due attention should be given to the potential risks involved, such as from Vibrio spp, etc. These data should be included in the national tagging database and annual reports.

Action 2F. Sea turtle medicine development and establishment of a Rescue Centre Currently there are no facilities in Albania capable of maintaining sea turtles for rehabilitation or recuperation purposes. There are no veterinary surgeons trained in sea turtle medicine, nor any animal‐ keepers trained to care for captive sea turtles. There is no stranding network in place, nor any person trained to provide first‐aid to injured marine animals (i.e. life‐saving measures).25 Sub‐actions: 1. Arrange for at least two veterinary surgeons (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine ‐ DVM) to attend a short course in surgical training on sea turtles. 2. Veterinarians trained in sea turtle medicine should sign‐up on the List‐server for sea turtles and rehabilitation (rehab@lists.seaturtle.org). This service has been established specifically to answer technical and medical questions concerning interventions, care, post‐operative recovery and recuperation of sea turtles; queries will be answered by specialist veterinarians in the various disciplines. It is essential that veterinarians collaborate closely with marine biologists during the recuperation process; both areas of specialist expertise are imperative for the successful recovery of injured turtles, and their subsequent release back into the sea. 3. A feasibility study should be carried out urgently with the following particular aims: a) To assess if and where it is appropriate to construct a suitable facility for holding injured sea turtles in Albania during their recuperation period. This centre can also be used for the research and care of other marine species. b) To evaluate if it is possible to train facility staff in sea turtle care in Albania; or if the selected candidates should be sent abroad to learn these skills. c) Investigate the possibilities of exchange‐students between countries, especially those at MSc, PhD, DVM level. d) Until such a facility can be constructed it is recommended that injured turtles are transferred to recuperation centres of neighbouring countries. Therefore:  appropriate international facilities that are willing to accept injured turtles into their care should be identified and contacted (these may differ case‐by‐case).  The procedures for transporting turtles and for issuing CITES import/export permits should be clearly defined (i.e. Department of Biodiversity, MoEFWA). NOTES: Guidelines and Instructions for establishing a sea turtle rescue and recuperation centre; and best practice for operating such a facility, are available at www.rac‐spa.org. Sea turtle rescue centres in the Mediterranean Region are now linked into a network which includes veterinary surgeons who will provide guidance for specific medical cases (currently led by Prof Antonio Di Bello, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bari University, Italy; and Dr Mari‐Luz Parga, SUBMON, Spain). Rescue centres that can provide sea turtle rescue facilities and training: 25

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University, Tirana, has been approached directly by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Italy, to develop a collaborative research programme for sea turtles.

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

 In the Adriatic Sea include: Pula Aquarium, Croatia and ARCHE, Italy.  In the Ionian Sea: the University of Bari and CRTM Lampedusa.  West Italy: the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples  ARCHELON, Athens, Greece (established road transport links with Albania) Terms and Conditions for: Reference: ‘Protection of wild fauna’ Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008 (Art. 6 ‘Protection requirements’ describes the considerations to be taken into account for conserving wild fauna and their habitats) (Art. 27 defines wild animals allowed to be held in captivity: either ‘born in captivity and if treated in accordance with the requirements of the minister’; or ‘if obtained from a registered breeding centre, with documentary proof’) Legislation enabling endangered or exotic species to be held in captivity Definitions: There should be a clear definition of terms: a. ‘Captivity’ e.g. “a turtle is prevented from living in, or returning to, its natural marine environment”; and b. ‘Capture’ e.g. “a turtle is forcibly removed from its natural marine environment”. Conditions: Sea turtles should not be removed from the marine environment unless they are sick or injured. Any sea turtles thus retained are to be kept in clean and continuously‐filtered seawater and ideally in individual tanks: this is necessary in order to minimise infections between animals (zoonoses); but also because turtles are essentially solitary in nature and should not be kept in crowded conditions. There are centres where turtles in their latest stages of recuperation are put together in large tanks; but these provide adequate space for swimming. In all cases the facility used for holding sea turtles in captivity, even for recuperative purposes, must be approved and licensed by the National Veterinary Service; or another such body that the National Sea Turtle Authority mandates for this purpose. The facility should be staffed by professional zoologists or trained zoo‐keepers; and be supported by government‐approved veterinary surgeons. In all cases there should be a designated and responsible person for any facility keeping sea turtles, who should be accountable to the National Sea Turtle Authority. The MoEFWA should be the overarching responsible authority for all turtles that are removed from the sea. Inspection of facilities: a government‐employed vet should inspect facilities and a certificate issued that authorises the director to hold turtles on those premises, and states explicitly why and for how long individual animals may be kept. Facility directors should provide regular updates on captive sea turtles (new arrivals, deaths, releases) to their inspecting vet. Inspections should include unannounced visits (i.e. spot‐checks). Facilities failing to meet approved operating standards should have their permits suspended (Protection of wild fauna Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008); legal penalties should be applied; and any captive turtles moved elsewhere (to a permitted facility), or released if in good health. Provisions for long‐term care: there may be a rare requirement to keep an individual turtle for an extended period: two examples are if an animal is completely blind; or if a turtle is unable to swim (e.g. fractured fore‐limbs). Due consideration should be given to the well‐being of such animals, in particular the absence of environmental stimuli (i.e. the effects of captivity on a migratory species); and the provision of a well‐balanced diet. As Albania lacks an Oceanarium it may be necessary to move these animals to zoological facilities in another country: such charismatic animals can have a high‐value in raising public environmental awareness. Action 2G. Issue and suspension of Permits Relevant departments should be nominated to issue and control the following permits: 1. Environmental permit issued by MoEFWA to conduct research on endangered species (Protection of wild fauna Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008)

2. Facilities for sea turtle recuperation are issued with a permit from the MoEFWA; following the recommendation of the inspecting vet that the conditions are suitable for the care of endangered and protected marine species (this permit should be on public display) 3. Permanent Staff operating sea turtle recuperation facilities are issued with a permit by the Veterinary Service (endorsed by MoEFWA) confirming that they are qualified to care for endangered marine species; and have been included in the National Register 4. All the above licences may be suspended by the approved Inspectorates; whose members should also be included in the National Register. 5. CITES import and export procedures should be followed in circumstances that require protected species, their body parts or derivatives to be transferred between countries (e.g. for DNA analysis in an approved laboratory); the standard permits should be issued following an official letter of request. A.4.3. Actions Related to Objective 3: Identification and mitigation of threats and impacts to sea turtles and their habitats Objective 3 Rationale Although sea turtles have natural predators, by far the greatest threats in the Mediterranean to these ancient mariners are mankind’s activities: irresponsible and unsustainable coastal development, loss of habitats, injury or death due to vessel collision, pollution (especially plastics, lights, heavy metals or persistent chemicals), fisheries by‐catch mortality, especially interaction with long‐lines, gill nets and trawls that have a major impact on sea turtle populations. Additionally, sea turtles and their habitats may be extremely vulnerable to the future impacts of climate change26. Every turtle that is released alive improves the survivability of the species; every turtle that is killed or seriously damaged reduces their likelihood of survival. Research is needed to identify and monitor threats, measure their impact on the species and provide solutions and mitigation measures. The actions hereby listed are based on findings of the 2008‐2010 research project. The major threats identified were interaction with fisheries and anthropogenic pollution. Future research and monitoring of threats should update the listed actions. For example, the effects of climate change should be closely monitored and impacts on sea turtles and their habitats should be assessed. A national strategic research programme on climate change impacts on marine ecosystems should combine and integrate monitoring of indicator species, groups, and ecosystems with monitoring of climate indicators, addressing adaptation to increase the ecosystem resilience to climate change. A contingency plan should also be created to deal with exceptional or unusual mortality events, large‐scale pollution disasters (e.g., oil or chemical spills). Action 3A. Terms for removal of sea turtles from the marine environment Reference: Protection of wild fauna Law Nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008; see Art. 19 Prohibited Actions Sea turtles should not be removed from the marine environment, nor be prevented from returning to their marine habitats. Sea turtles should only be removed from their natural environment for scientific purposes, within an approved research programme, by licensed and approved researchers (see Action 2A). Turtles captured incidentally in fisheries (i.e. as by‐catch) should be immediately returned to the sea (RAC/SPA 2003). If for any reason sea turtles are brought ashore they are to be handed over immediately to approved and licensed researchers or responsible officials (e.g. personnel of the Port Authority, fishery inspectorate or Coast Guard). 26

Poloczanska et al. 2009.

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 3: Identification and mitigation of threats and impacts to sea turtles and their habitats

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Sick or injured turtles should be handed over to licensed researchers or responsible officials and may be treated at a licensed recuperation facility or rescue centre; i.e. under the care of trained personnel, veterinary surgeons, or sea turtle biologists (see ‘Protection of wild fauna’ Law nr. 10006 dated 23/10/2008; Arts. 15‐17). These animals should be returned to the sea at the earliest opportunity, subject to medical advice. (See Action 2F for more specific details).

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 3: Identification and mitigation of threats and impacts to sea turtles and their habitats

Action 3B. Safe‐handling procedures for sea turtles Reference: ‘Sea turtle handling guidebook for fishermen’ (Gerosa & Aureggi 2001. RAC/SPA, UNEP)

It is imperative that following their incidental capture, for instance in fisheries, that no further harm is caused to these already‐endangered marine animals. In order to prevent further harm to sea turtles, the following are mandatory:  Turtles must not be thrown, but gently placed into boats or onto the ground; especially onto concrete.  Turtles must not be kept on their backs.  Turtles must not be lifted or carried by their flippers as this is known to seriously impair their swimming ability.  When being moved turtles must be lifted and carried by holding them beneath the carapace; or by first placing them into a large container that can be carried. In the exceptional circumstances of fishing vessels that remain at sea: if turtles have to be retained for a short period because it was not safe to return them to the sea immediately (e.g. if a fishing vessel still has gear deployed, or other vessels are actively fishing nearby), then each animal should be kept in an individual container that is filled with clean seawater; because it is important that the eyes and carapace of turtles do not dry out. They are to be released into the sea at the earliest opportunity. (See Action 2F on sea turtle medicine for injured animals and their care). If the turtle is too large to fit in a container, a wet cloth should be placed over the animal to facilitate cooling. Compliance and Control: Environmental Inspectorate and the Veterinary Service and fisheries inspectorates should actively enforce these rules; the understanding of which should be a condition for the issue or renewal of a fishing licence.

Action 3C. Monitoring and reducing fisheries by‐catch, illegal fishing and illegal trade It is recognised that when fishing activities occur in areas where sea turtles are present there will be some interaction between the two. The capture of non‐target species (by‐catch) is a cause of global concern and is recognized as a major threat to all sea turtle species27. The level of incidental capture of these protected animals depends upon the fishing effort, extent and duration of a fishing operation, type of fishing gear deployed, and the concentration of sea turtles in the fishing area. Lewison et al. (2004) estimated that the global turtle capture for pelagic longlines was 200,000 loggerheads in 2000 and the USA National Marine Fisheries Service in 2001 estimated that 17‐42% of loggerheads captured on longlines would die, either immediately or subsequently, as a result of their fishery encounter. Casale (2008) studied four types of fishing gear and reported that in the Mediterranean bycatch is high: over 150,000 turtles per year, of which probably over 50,000 die28. In Albania, it is not known how many turtles are caught, injured or killed in national fisheries, or in their migratory corridors; but these impacts will have an effect upon other populations in the Mediterranean region; and perhaps elsewhere. So a comprehensive national assessment of fishery by‐catch is a necessary research endeavour. 27

Magnuson et al. 1990; Hall 1996; Hall et al. 2000; Lewison et al. 2004; Wallace et al. 2010 The effects of various fishing techniques on turtles in the Mediterranean have been described in Gerosa and Casale (1999); Panou et al. (1999) and Godley et al. (1998) describe impacts of three artisanal fisheries on turtles in the eastern Mediterranean. Hand‐held monofilament line has also been recognised as a problem (White, 2002). 28

Sub‐actions 1. An immediate national assessment of the interaction between marine turtles and of all coastal and offshore fisheries and all types of fishing gear is undertaken to establish the true level29 and type of impact these other fisheries have on present turtle populations in Albania. The study should consequently propose whether additional measures should be formulated and implemented. The by‐ catch‐assessment should include trawls, nets, long‐lines, and especially small scale and artisanal fisheries; these latter are often ignored, may not be registered and, although their individual impact may be small, they may number in the thousands.30 2. In order to reduce by‐catch mortality and minimise harm to captured sea turtles, urgently provide training and awareness‐raising activities for fishing communities, especially artisanal and small scale, in: how to correctly handle sea turtles, safely remove them from fishing gear, provide care for injured animals, distinguish between dead and comatose turtles, revive comatose turtles, report their capture to the designated authority, and the importance of minimising further injury and not killing them i.e. that these are endangered animals and there is a joint responsibility to protect them. (See also Action 1D). 3. Implement an effective ongoing by‐catch monitoring programme: a) Ensure that there is a nominated responsible person for turtles in each port (e.g. personnel of the Port Authority or Coast Guard) to collect and report the information to the National Authority. b) Arrange, deliver, and evaluate training courses on the handling, measuring and tagging of sea turtles for fisheries inspectors, managers of protected coastal areas; and designated officials from regional and local government (see also Action 1D). c) Encourage the active participation of fishermen in the information networks and tagging programmes, using the Fishermen’s Associations and the Fisheries Inspectors from each port or region d) Require that records are kept for all captured sea turtles and that these are reported to the designated authority (port police, fisheries inspectors and coast guard should also be involved).These by‐catch data should include:  Fishing: gear type and dimensions, sea areas (as described above), depth of set, soak‐time, target species, bait if using hooks.  Turtles: species, size‐classes, alive, injured or dead, tag‐numbers, fate of the turtle (e.g. brought to authorised official for tagging, handed over to a rescue centre, or released at sea).  Additional information: frequency of turtle sightings and/or captures; differences between seasons. 4. It is recommended that by‐catch reporting is a condition for the issue or renewal of a fishing permit (this could be included within Fisheries and Aquaculture Law 7908, dated 04/05/1995) 5. In order to minimise incidental captures, harm, retention, and mortality of sea turtles ensure that appropriate regulations are applied and enforced (by fisheries inspectors, veterinary service, coast guard or the QNOD) concerning fishing areas, fishing depth, seasons, gear‐type etc; especially in areas with high concentrations of turtles, such as Drini Bay. Regulations should comply with requirements and recommendations issued by regional fisheries organisations to which Albania is a party or member nation (e.g. FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries; GFCM Recommendation Rec. GFCM/35/2011/4, ICCAT Recommendations 2010‐09, Fisheries and Aquaculture Law 7908, dated 04/05/1995; Regulation 1, dated 29/03/2005: for law enforcement in Fisheries and Aquaculture). 6. Extension of the process of evaluation and compensation envisaged in principle within Albanian Law (Law no.10006, dated 23/10/2008 'On wild fauna protection’; Article 12 "Compensation of damage”) to include compensation to fishermen for damaged fishing nets as a result of sea turtle activity in identified areas where interaction between marine turtles and fish stocks is a well established fact. The guidelines for evaluation and compensation are approved by the Minister for the Environment, in co‐operation with the Ministry of Finance; and at present these rules only apply to agricultural holdings.

White et al. 2006 reported that three trawlers operating from Shengjin had captured a total of 520 loggerhead turtles in 2005 30 Godley et al. 1998 ; Panou et al. 1999

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 3: Identification and mitigation of threats and impacts to sea turtles and their habitats

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

7. Ensure active enforcement of the prohibition of dynamite use for fishing in coastal waters (collaboration of fishery inspectors and police) (Penal Code Law Nr. 7895 of 27/01/1995, Fisheries and Aquaculture Law 7908, dated 04/05/1995).31 8. At present it is unclear if there is still an active trade in capturing sea turtles for food32 or for the production of artefacts. This should be investigated during the by‐catch assessment, including any instances of selling turtles abroad (in Italy for instance). The trade and consumption of sea turtles is prohibited, and the ban should be actively enforced.

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 3: Identification and mitigation of threats and impacts to sea turtles and their habitats

Action 3D. Pollution reduction and waste management Anthropogenic pollution is ubiquitous in Albania’s coastal zone, across much of the land, in the rivers and lagoons. Although legislation exists for waste management (see below) the infrastructure is mainly lacking; and there may be little priority placed upon addressing this problem. At Ministerial level the organisation for waste management is clear, however, its implementation and administration falls to the Bashkia and Kommuna (Municipalities and Local Councils/Communes); these invariably have more pressing needs, resulting in the widespread, unsightly, and insanitary problem of pollution. It is common to see waste, including sewage‐effluent, disposed of directly into the rivers, and because each river bank may be the responsibility of a different local authority: pollutants dumped by one community may impact upon others33. Waste and particularly manufactured plastic items, from as far inland as Mount Tomori ends up on the beaches (notably on the Adriatic beaches, i.e. the coastline extending northwards from Vlore), having been transported by the riverine system. In order to prevent this pollution from reaching the sea, a waste management strategy is required throughout the country. Waste management needs to be of high priority and can be achieved by: 1. Strengthening relationships between agencies and organisations involved with waste management for improved collaboration and coordination of activities. 2. Promoting the National Waste Strategy to the Private Sector for private sector involvement. 3. Producing region‐specific waste management plans, with an emphasis on minimisation of waste. 4. Implementing a national awareness‐campaign to minimise waste pollution. 5. Providing waste disposal and recycling facilities. Developing the necessary infrastructure to treat all sewage effluent to modern standards. 6. Establishing regulations for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM), so that discharges into the marine environment are considered and carefully controlled (Law ‘on Protection of Marine Environment from pollution and damages’(2002), requires an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for any activity relating to the sea or its coastal area) 7. Urgently implementing the EC Directive “concerning the management of bathing water quality” (2006/7/EC) in order to minimise the risks to public health and tourism. This also requires the authorities to issue warning notices to the general public when pollution levels are exceeded at locations where public bathing occurs; and closing these sites if necessary. 8. Reducing the availability of manufactured plastic consumer goods and promoting their reuse. 9. Undertaking coastal and river clean‐ups in the short‐term; these require logistical planning and provision of resources, including arrangements for the disposal of the collected waste. 10. Anthropogenic pollution should be prevented from entering Drini Bay, from all the rivers entering the bay, and any other identified sea turtle habitats; and an ecotoxicological assessment of all rivers, and especially River Ishmi outflow, is conducted at the earliest opportunity34; in accordance with provisions in: Law No.8405, “On Urban Planning ", dated 17/09/1998 as amended Law No.9537, “On the Management of Hazardous Waste”, dated 18/05/2006; Law No.9108, “On Chemical Substances and Preparations”, dated 17.07.2003;

See Action 1C & 3D and “Dynamite Fishing” table in Annex 1 of White et al. 2011a White et al. 2006 33 White et al. 2010a, 2010b, 2011a 34 See coastal pollution survey findings in White et al. 2010a 32

Law No. 8905 “On Protection of the Marine Environment from Pollution and Damages” (06/06/2002) Law No. 9115 “On Environmental Management of Waste‐waters” (24/7/2003) Law No. 9010 “On Environmental Management of Solid Waste” (13/02/2003) Law No. 10440 “On Environmental Impact Assessment” (7.7.2011) Law “On Water Resources” (1996) Law “On the Regulatory Framework of the Water Supply Sector and the Treatment of Polluted Waters” (1996) Law No. 10431, “On Environmental Protection” (9.6.2011) Law No. 7665, dated 21.01.1993 "On Development of Tourism Priority Zones ", as amended Law No. 7908, dated 5.4.1995 “On Fisheries and Aquaculture” “Decision of Council of Ministers on Environmental Monitoring”, No. 1189, dated 18.11.2009 “Decision of Council of Ministers for the approval of the National Environmental Action Plan” (2002) “Decision of Council of Ministers for the approval of norms on effluent discharges”, No. 177, dated 31/03/2005 Law “On the Albanian Coast Guard”, No. 8875, dated 04/04/2002 amended Law “On control and supervision of the state border”, No. 9861, dated 24/01/2008 “Decision of Council of Ministers on Structure, organisation and function of the Inter‐operational Maritime Centre (QNOD); its interaction with state institutions; and interests in the sea” No. 954, dated 30/09/2009 Decision of Council of Ministers on the “Establishment of the National Water Council”, No. 775, dated 28.10.1996, as amended Law No. 8652, dated 31.7.2000 “For the organization, and functioning of local government” In addition to the ecotoxicological assessment further evidence of pollution levels can be determined through analysis of bioaccumulation in animal tissue and plant material. Biopsies from living animals are to be taken by a qualified vet. Dead sea turtles, as well as plant and soil samples can also provide evidence for bioaccumulation of pollutants. A.4.4. Actions Related to Objective 4: Identification of critical habitats, legal protection and establishment of a functional network of marine, coastal and estuarine protected areas. Objective 4 Rationale In order to contribute to the Mediterranean effort to protect sea turtles, it is vital to protect all of their key habitats and migratory routes, especially those critical to their development, in an integrated and interlinked manner. Importance should be given to the application and enforcement of the legal framework. Identification and Legal protection Following research activities (see Actions Related to Objective 2), a national inventory of important sea turtle habitats should be completed as soon as possible. Areas of fundamental conservation importance may exist without users and decision makers knowing it. Important sea turtle habitats can be then designated by law as protected areas (marine, coastal and/or estuarine), included in the Natura 2000 Network, and considered in the strategy that Albania will be required to develop and implement within the framework of the EU Marine Framework Strategy Directive. The Management Committee of “Sazan‐Karaburun”, the first Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Albania; the establishment of a National Agency on Protected Areas (within the framework of the amendment of the existing law “On protected areas”, no. 8906, 6.6.2002); and the designation of Drini Bay as a Specially Protected Area (SPA), are in the long‐term plans of the MoEFWA. The MoEFWA plans to designate new MPAs and extend the existing PAs network.

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 4: Identification of critical habitats, legal protection and establishment of a functional network of marine, coastal and estuarine protected areas.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Chapter: Actions Related to Objective 4: Identification of critical habitats, legal protection and establishment of a functional network of marine, coastal and estuarine protected areas.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Establishment of Protected Areas This will include providing all areas with a management body, endowed with sufficient powers as well as means and human resources to prevent and/or control activities likely to be contrary to the aims of the protected area. Specific actions include: 1. Establish and enforce appropriate zoning, with strict no‐take zones and zones where regulated fishing can occur, providing, insofar as it is possible, privileges to local fishermen. 2. Establish effective conservation measures to manage human activities affecting the population numbers, habitat loss and food resource depletion 3. Implement a clearly defined procedure for inspections and enforcement. 4. Promote local consensus‐based, participatory conservation scheme; conduct awareness and 5. education campaigns 6. Monitor compliance controls 7. Responsibilities should include regularly monitoring and reporting on population status; investigation of mortality events; environmental status monitoring (food resources, pollution, habitat degradation, etc) 8. Contingency plans, specific for the protected area, should be prepared and implemented to respond to oil spills, mass mortality events and other disasters. 9. Management Plans and zoning of these MPAs should be revisited and amended where appropriate every 3‐5 years. Establishment of a Functional Network of Protected Areas All protected areas should be linked together into a functional network. Managers and main stakeholders should meet regularly at a local and national level to exchange views and share experiences. Inventoried key areas should be linked together into a “national network” of conservation areas. The national tagging database should be reviewed regularly to provide an understanding of patterns of dispersal/exchange among the various sea areas.

ACTION Action 1A. Establishment of National Authority (NA) responsible for sea turtle conservation

Action 1C. Inter‐institutional implementation of the sea turtle action plan (AP)

INDICATOR OF ACHIEVEMENT     

NA appointed and established. Terms of reference adopted (responsibilities). Development of national guidelines document (point 6). Experts invited to form the SCC. SCC Established. List of members. Terms of reference adopted. Number of Meetings of Committee.

 

AP communicated to the QNOD. QNOD responsibilities related to the AP agreed. Number of Meetings. Terms of reference adopted. Inter‐institutional implementation of the AP.

 Action 1D. Education, Training and Awareness Raising

Sub‐Action 1Da. Academic and Professional Training.

Establishment of a Marine Science Institute and Research Centre.

      



Sub‐Action 1Db. Primary and Secondary Level Education.

  

Chapter: Action Plan Implementation Table

Feasibility study to identify suitable institutions to deliver training courses in subjects outlined in AP. Standardised sea turtle training courses formulated and approved by the NA. List of providers of training courses. No. of persons working with sea turtles that have completed training. Working group established. Legal requirements investigated & funding sources identified. Centre presented to the relevant Ministries, Prefectures and Regional Environment Agencies. Centre established and responsibilities defined. All necessary approvals, staffing, resources, etc. obtained. Research training module developed and tested. All necessary approvals, documents, staffing, resources; and funding for this module obtained. Sea turtle and marine environment lesson designed and introduced into school curriculum. No. of teachers trained to teach about marine habitats and sea turtles. No. of school field‐days per year related to marine environment protection and environmental education.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Action 1B. Establishment of Scientific Consultative Committee (SCC)

SUBACTION

A.5. Action Plan Implementation Table

OBJECTIVE 1. Sea turtle conservation is established as a national priority

Chapter: Action Plan Implementation Table

Sub‐Action 1Dc. Stakeholder Education.

Sub‐Action 1Dd. Public Awareness Raising.

   

Action 1E. Legislation



OBJECTIVE 2. Monitoring of sea turtle population and habitats ACTION Action 2A. Research (proposals, approvals and permits)

SUBACTION

INDICATOR OF ACHIEVEMENT 

 

Action 2B. Delineation of National Sea Areas

 

Action 2C. Long‐term monitoring of change in sea turtle populations

 

Action 2D. Creation of a national tagging database



Research proposal approval and permit issuance process adopted and communicated by the NA. Standardised application form created. No. of research proposals submitted & approved by the NA. No. of permits issued. Existence of updated National Register of approved persons & organisations to work with, or conduct research on sea turtles. Map of Designated Sea Areas for sea turtle monitoring developed by NA and SCC. Standardised monitoring protocol formulated by SCC and NA (methodology and data collection protocols). No. and duration of sea turtle population monitoring activities. No. of permanent monitoring programmes and projects. No. of publications on monitoring results and analysis of population changes. National tagging database established and communicated.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

   

No. of educational campaigns or workshops designed. No. of educational workshops/campaigns organised for stakeholder groups. No. of operating environmental information centres. No. of environmental awareness raising campaigns designed and materialised. No. of individuals informed. No. of operating environmental information centres. Regulations and orders enforcing the AP adopted as necessary. Process of evaluation and compensation envisaged in Law no.10006 amended to include compensation to fishermen for damaged fishing nets as a result of confirmed sea turtle activity. Sea turtle protection included in the Karaburuni‐Sazani Marine National Park’s Operational Guidelines (Gov. Decree no. 289).

Action 2E. Creation of a stranding network

    

Action 2F. Sea turtle medicine development and establishment of a Rescue Centre

Sub‐actions:  Feasibility study on training of at least 2 veterinary surgeons nationally or internationally.

    

Chapter: Action Plan Implementation Table

Working group created. Feasibility studies conducted. No. of vets trained. Contact details of trained vet. surgeons and of international recuperation centres communicated to the stranding network coordinator and reporters. Trained vet. surgeons are included in Mediterranean and international networks.

 Feasibility study on exchange of MSc, PhD, DVM level students between countries for training.

 

Feasibility study conducted. No. of students visiting foreign countries for sea turtle medicine training.

 Feasibility study on transfer of injured turtles to recuperation centres of neighbouring countries.

 

Feasibility study conducted. No. of injured turtles transferred to international recuperation centres.

 Feasibility study on creation of sea turtle rehabilitation centre.

     

Feasibility study conducted. Sea turtle rehabilitation centre established. No. of years of operation No. of sea turtles successfully cared for and released. No. facility inspection. No. of facility visitors.

 Definition of Terms & Conditions for Captivity.



Terms & Conditions for Captivity published.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Coordinator appointed (NA, individual, NGO, University or other organisation). Stranding reporting system created (website or hotline). Financial resources or sponsor secured. Information campaign on existence of stranding reporting system launched. No. of stakeholder‐specific training workshops on stranding reporting and first aid. “Reporter network” created.

Chapter: Action Plan Implementation Table



Action 2G. Issue and suspension of Permits

OBJECTIVE 3. Identification and mitigation of threats ACTION Action 3A. Terms for removal of sea turtles from the marine environment Action 3B. Safe‐handling procedures for sea turtles Action 3C. Monitoring and reducing fisheries by‐catch, illegal fishing and illegal trade

SUBACTION Sub‐actions:  National assessment of all coastal and offshore fisheries.  Training & awareness‐raising activities for fishing communities.  Implement an effective ongoing by‐catch monitoring programme.

INDICATOR OF ACHIEVEMENT    

Terms for removal are issued by NA and SCC. No. of inspections. Procedures published and communicated to relevant parties. No. of inspections.

 

Regional assessment conducted and results published. National assessment conducted and results published.



No. of workshops conducted.



   

By‐catch monitoring programme designed. Reporting documentation developed. Person responsible for by‐catch reporting nominated at each port. No. of training sessions for reporters. Programme implemented. No. of by‐catch reports. Results published. No. of publications. No. of inspections. No. of recommendations or penalties issued.



No. of evaluations and compensations made.



No. of investigations/inspections and actions taken.



 Ensure fisheries regulations are applied and enforced.  Extension of Law no.10006 to include fishermen compensation for damaged fishing nets as a result of confirmed sea turtle activity.  Investigate trade of the species during the by‐ catch assessment.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

 

Relevant departments nominated to issue and control the following permits: o Permit to conduct research on endangered species. o Permit for facilities for sea turtle care. o Permit for permanent staff operating sea turtle holding‐ facilities. Approved Inspectorates are included in the National Register. CITES permits issued accordingly. No of permits issued in comparison with No. of research projects.

  Enforcement of the prohibition of dynamite use for  fishing in coastal waters.

Action 3D. Pollution reduction and waste management

 Strengthening relationships between agencies and organisations involved with waste management for  improved collaboration and coordination of activities.  Promotion of National Waste Strategy to the  Private Sector for involvement.  Production of region‐specific waste management plans, with an emphasis on minimisation of waste.       Construction of waste disposal sites and recycling  facilities. Development of infrastructure to treat  sewage effluent.   Establishing regulations for Integrated Coastal Zone  Management.   Implementation of a national awareness‐campaign to minimise waste production and incorrect disposal.

Chapter: Action Plan Implementation Table

No. of educational workshops. No. of enforcement operations conducted and. No. of successful prosecutions. No. of coordination meetings.

Workshops or incentives. No. of region‐ specific waste management plans issued. Campaign designed. No. of campaigns implemented. No. of key target groups involved. No. of individuals and organisations informed. No. of waste disposal sites. No. of recycling facilities. No. of sewage treatment facilities. Integrated Coastal Zone Management policy adopted. No. of Environmental Impact Assessments conducted for activities related to the sea or coastal area. No. of analyses of bathing water quality. No. of warning notices issued to the general public. No. of analyses with positive vs. poor results. No. of management measures taken.

 Implementation of the EC Directive concerning the management of bathing water quality (2006/7/EC).

   

 Reduction of plastic consumer goods and reuse promotion.

  

Strategy formulated. Strategy applied. Reduction % (e.g. % of decrease of plastics production, % of decrease of plastics reaching disposal sites, % of plastics found during beach cleanup, etc.)

 Coastal and river clean‐ups.

 

Coastal and river clean‐up plan designed (sites, logistics, budget). No. of clean‐ups conducted.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Chapter: Action Plan Implementation Table

OBJECTIVE 4. Identification of critical habitats, legal protection & establishment of a functional network of marine, coastal & estuarine protected areas. ACTION Identification and Legal protection

INDICATOR OF ACHIEVEMENT   

 Establishment of Protected Areas (PAs)

National inventory of important sea turtle habitats. Identification of areas of fundamental conservation importance. Designation as protected areas.

Sub‐actions:  Establish PAs.  Establish and enforce appropriate zoning and effective conservation measures to manage human activities.  Promote local consensus‐based, participatory conservation scheme; conduct awareness and education campaigns.  Monitor compliance controls.  Regularly monitoring and reporting on population status; environmental status monitoring.  Preparation and implementation of PA‐specific contingency plans to spills, mass mortality events and other disasters  Amendment of Management Plans and zoning every 3‐5 years.

Establishment of a Functional Network of MPAs



             

National inventory created. Areas identified. No. of areas included in Natura 2000 Network, MPAs or other protected status. No. of sea turtle habitats legally established as (marine, coastal & estuarine) PAs. o No. of PAs with management bodies. o No. of PAs with management plan and budget. o No. of PAs with defined procedure for inspections and enforcement. o No. of PAs with active monitoring and enforcement of zoning and conservation measures. o No. of hired staff. o No. of enforcement operations. No. of stakeholder workshop and participatory meetings. No. of campaigns conducted. No. of Quality Assurance reviews undertaken. No. of research projects/activities conducted. No. of seasons or duration of activities. No. of reports or publications. Contingency plans created. No. of investigations of events and disasters. No. of precautionary or protective activities. No. of meetings and workshops for necessary amendments. No of amendments to management plans and zoning. No. and frequency of meetings between managers and stakeholders. “National network” of protected areas established. No. of reports or studies for patterns of dispersal/exchange among protected areas.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

SUBACTION  

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

B. ANNEXES

Source: http://www.rac‐spa.org/sites/default/files/action_plans/marine_turtles_ap_fr_en.pdf Section III Priorities (relevant to Albania) III.1. Protection and management of the species and their habitats: Development, implementation and enforcement of legislation. Protection and management of feeding, wintering and mating areas, and key migratory passages. Minimisation of incidental catches and elimination of intentional killing. III.2. Research and monitoring: Knowledge needs to be improved in the following topics: Identification of feeding, wintering and mating areas, and key migratory passages. Identification of new nesting areas. Biology of the species, in particular aspects related to life cycles, population dynamics and population trends, and genetics. Assessment of fisheries interactions and associated mortalities, including modification of fishing gear and related socioeconomic issues. Data collection through stranding networks. Assessment of population trends through long term monitoring at sea Impact of climate change III.3. Public awareness and education: Information and education campaigns on relevant turtle conservation issues should target groups such as: Local residents Fishermen and other stakeholders Tourists and tourism organisations Schoolchildren and teachers Decision makers at national, regional and local levels Appropriate training or education can be given to stakeholders (e.g., to fishermen and tourism workers) III.4. Capacity building/training: Training of managers and other staff of protected areas in conservation and management techniques and of scientists, researchers, and other staff in conservation, research and monitoring in the priority issues covered by the Action Plan. III.5. Coordination: Promote and enhance cooperation and coordination among the Contracting Parties, as well as cooperation and networking among the relevant organisations and experts in the region. Priority should be given to the regular assessment of the progress in the implementation of this Action Plan. [RAC/SPA coordinates this]

Chapter: ANNEXES

B.1. Priority Actions Relevant to Albania from 2007 RAC/SPA Action Plan for the Conservation of Mediterranean Marine Turtles:

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

B.2. Examples of malpractice and solutions Tagging Poorly‐fitted tags cause injury to a turtle, and possibly death (infection, entanglement).

Examples of tags placed too near to the edge of flipper: this will be lost and could result in injury or entanglement in fishing gear etc.

Scars from lost tags.

Example of correct tagging

Solutions (see Actions 1A, 2A): i) Only correct tag types should be used (See Appendix II in UNEP MAP RAC/SPA, 2007) ii) Tags should only be applied by persons that have received training on tagging iii) Guidelines for tagging must be adhered to (See Appendix II in UNEP MAP RAC/SPA, 2007); the advised practice is to apply two tags per animal; turtles smaller than 30cm CCL should not be tagged; iv) research permits that allow tagging should be issued to trained researchers; v) projects should be inspected by authorised vets or inspectors (e.g. fishery or environmental inspectors) Handling Poor handling techniques can cause serious damage to turtles and impair their swimming ability.

Chapter: Examples of malpractice and solutions

Examples of incorrect handling: turtles should not be placed upside down on boats and the ground and should not be lifted by the flippers

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

Incorrect method of lifting turtle by flippers

Head injury caused by mishandling

Solutions (see Action 1A, 2A, 3B): i) All persons working with sea turtles, including researchers and fishermen should receive training in correct handling & release techniques. ii) Ideally turtles should be released immediately (after tagging, if equipment and trained personnel available). They should be only brought ashore if they are sick or injured (see Action 2F) iii) Turtles must not be lifted by their flippers: this is known to impair swimming ability iv) Turtles must not be kept on their backs or be thrown onto the ground or into boats, as this can cause serious head injuries and even death

Chapter: Examples of malpractice and solutions

Examples of correct handling. Turtle should be lifted by the carapace.

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania

B.3. List of EU law relevant to sea turtle protection Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (Habitats Directive) Council Regulation (EC) No. 338/97 on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora by regulating trade therein; Commission Regulation (EC) No 865/2006 laying down detailed rules concerning the implementation of Council Regulation (EC) No 338/97 (the Implementing Regulation); and Commission Recommendation No 2007/425/EC identifying a set of actions for the enforcement of Regulation (EC) No 338/97. Directive 2008/56/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 June 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy (Marine Strategy Framework Directive) Council Regulation (EC) No 2371/2002 of 20 December 2002 on the conservation and sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources under the Common Fisheries Policy Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for the Community action in the field of water policy (EU Water Framework Directive) Council Directive 91/271/EEC of 21 May 1991 concerning urban waste‐water treatment (Urban Waste Water Directive) Directive 2006/7/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 February 2006 concerning the management of bathing water quality and repealing Directive 76/160/EEC Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on waste (Waste Framework Directive) Directive 2008/1/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 January 2008 concerning integrated pollution prevention and control. Council Directive (85/337/EEC) of 27 June 1985 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (EIA Directive). Amended by: Council Directive 97/11/EC of 3 March 1997; Directive 2003/35/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 May 2003; Directive 2009/31/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009. Directive 2001/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2001 on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment (SEA Directive) Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2002 concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Europe

Chapter: List of EU law relevant to sea turtle protection

C. CITED LITERATURE

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Suggett DJ, Houghton JDR (1998) Possible link between sea turtle by‐catch and flipper tagging in Greece. Marine Turtle Newsletter 81: 10‐11. Tomas J, Formia A, Fernandez M, Raga JA (2003) Occurrence and genetic analysis of a Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii) in the Mediterranean Sea. Scientia Marina 67 (3): 367‐369. Wallace BP, Lewison RL, McDonald SL, McDonald RK, Kot CY, Kelez S, Bjorkland RK, Finkbeiner EM, Helmbrecht S and Crowder LB (2010) Global patterns of marine turtle bycatch. Conservation Letters, 3: 131–142. doi: 10.1111/j.1755‐263X.2010.00105.x White M (2002) Observation of accidental capture of a loggerhead by handline fishing in Kefalonia, Greece. Marine Turtle Newsletter 98: 8.

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RAC/SPA (2003) Guidelines to design legislations and regulations to the conservation and management of marine turtles populations and their habitats, Tunis, 2003. 65pp http://www.rac‐spa.org/sites/default/files/doc_turtles/legal_guidelines_turtles.pdf

Action Plan for the Conservation of Sea Turtles and their Habitats in Albania White M, Haxhiu I, Kouroutos V, Gace A, Vaso A, Beqiraj S, Plytas A (2006) Rapid assessment survey of important marine turtle and monk seal habitats in the coastal area of Albania, October‐November 2005. (Available from www.medasset.org). White M, Haxhiu I, Saçdanaku E, Petri L, Rumano M, Osmani F, Vrenozi B, Robinson P, Kouris S, Venizelos L (2008) Monitoring stavnike fish‐traps and sea turtle by‐catch at Patoku, Albania. International Conference on Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Tirana University, Tirana, Albania. Pp. 404‐409. White M, Haxhiu I, Saçdanaku E, Petri L, Robinson P, Kouris S, Venizelos L (2009a) Patoku: Monitoring an important sea turtle foraging ground in Albania. Book of Abstracts, 31st Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation, International Sea Turtle Society Brisbane, Australia. White M, Haxhiu I, Saçdanaku E, Petri L, Rumano M, Osmani F, Vrenozi B, Robinson P, Kouris S, Boura L, Venizelos L (2009b) Monitoring and Conservation of Important Sea Turtle Feeding Grounds in the Patok Area of Albania. 2008 Annual Report. Joint Project of MEDASSET; GEF/SGP; RAC/SPA (UNEP/MAP); Ministry of Environment, Albania; Museum of Natural Sciences, Albania; H.A.S., Albania; University of Tirana; ECAT, Albania. 91 pp. (Available from www.medasset.org). White M, Haxhiu I, Vrenozi B, Rumano M , Gërdeci X, Kararaj E, Mitro M, Petri L, Përkeqi D, Saçdanaku E, Trezhnjevna B, Boura L, Grimanis K, Robinson P, Venizelos L (2010a) Monitoring and Conservation of Important Sea Turtle Feeding Grounds in the Patok Area of Albania. 2009 Project Report. Joint project of: MEDASSET; GEF/SGP; RAC/SPA; UNEP/MAP; BCG; Ministry of Environment, Albania; Natural History Museum, Albania; H.A.S., Albania; University of Tirana. (Available from www.medasset.org). White M, Haxhiu I, Kararaj E, Përkeqi D, Petri L, Saçdanaku E, Boura L, Venizelos L (2010b). Plastic debris at an important sea turtle foraging ground in Albania. Book of Abstracts, 30th Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation, International Sea Turtle Society Goa, India. White M, Haxhiu I, Boura L, Gërdeci X, Kararaj E, Mitro M, Petri L, Përkeqi D, Robinson P, Rumano M, Saçdanaku E, Trezhnjevna, Vrenozi B, L. Venizelos L (2010c) Male loggerheads at a foraging & developmental habitat in Albania. Book of Abstracts, 30th Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation, International Sea Turtle Society Goa, India. White M, Boura L, Venizelos L (2010d) An overview of MEDASSET’s role in sea turtle research and conservation in Albania. Testudo 7(2): 43‐54. White M, Haxhiu I, Kararaj E, Mitro M, Petri L, Saçdanaku E, Trezhnjevna B, Boura L, Grimanis K, Robinson P, Venizelos L (2011a) Monitoring and Conservation of Important Sea Turtle Feeding Grounds in the Patok Area of Albania 2008‐2010. Final Project Report. A project of MEDASSET in collaboration with University of Tirana; H.A.S., Albania; ECAT, Albania. Supported by: GEF/SGP, Tirana; RAC/SPA (UNEP/MAP); UNEP/MAP. (Available from www.medasset.org). White M, Haxhiu I, Boura L, Venizelos L (2011b) Sea turtles in Northern Albania: Key results of a three‐year research project (2008‐2010). In: Bentivegna F, Maffucci F, Mauriello V (compilers) Book of Abstracts. 4th Mediterranean Conference of Marine Turtles Naples‐Italy, 129 pp Oakley D, White M, Kararaj E, Përkeqi D, Saçdanaku E, Petri L, Mitro M, Boura L, Grimanis K, Venizelos L (2011c) Satellite‐telemetry reveals different behavioural patterns for three loggerhead turtles Caretta caretta tagged at a foraging ground in Albania. In: Bentivegna F, Maffucci F, Mauriello V (compilers) Book of Abstracts. 4th Mediterranean Conference of Marine Turtles Naples‐Italy, 129 pp White M, Boura L, Venizelos L (2012) MEDASSET’s three‐year project: Monitoring an important sea turtle foraging ground at Patok, Albania. Marine Turtle Newsletter, in press.

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UNEP MAP RAC/SPA (2007) Action Plan for the Conservation of Mediterranean Marine Turtles. RAC/SPA: Tunis, Tunisia. 40pp. http://www.rac‐spa.org/sites/default/files/action_plans/marine_turtles_ap_fr_en.pdf

Zeko I, Puzanoi V (1960) Një breshkë oqeanike në bregdetin tonë [An oceanic turtle in our seaside]. Buletini I Shkencave Natyrore [Bulletin of Natural Sciences] 4: 145‐146