Year 4 Report

End of Year Report: Year 4 Progress Report Against Programme Objectives October 2012 to September 2013

The National Field Research Centre for Environmental Conservation

contents 1

Executive Summary

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Developing the Cadre of Research and Education Specialists

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Environmental Field Research Projects: PROJECT 1 | Arabian tahr Ecosystem Research,

Conservation and Community Project and MERU PROJECT 2 | Plan for Mobile Environmental Research Units:

Oman Hajar Mountains Biodiversity Survey PROJECT 3 | The Jebel Samhan Research Project PROJECT 4 | Juniper Woodlands Research Project PROJECT 5 | Aflaj Research Project PROJECT 6 | GIS, Remote Sensing and Database Development PROJECT 7 | Social Science Work PROJECT 8 | Ornithological Research

Abbreviations/Acronyms: OEP - Oman Earthwatch Programme NFRCEC - National Field Research Centre for Environmental Conservation OCE - Office of Conservation of the Environment MECA - Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs PI - Principal Investigator (Lead Scientist on Research Project) SQU - Sultan Qaboos University OBG - Oman Botanic Gardens DRC - Diwan of Royal Court

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Support to the National Field Research Centre for Environmental Conservation (NFRCEC) Strategic Development

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Environmental Education

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Omani Scientists Conducting Own Fieldwork

7

Operations and Safety in the Field

8

Capturing OEP Successes

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Carbon Management

1 Executive Summary The development of a cadre of environmental and education specialists is a major focus of the OEP.

Year 4 of the Oman Earthwatch Programme (OEP) (October 2012 – September 2013) has been a year of significant developments.

In particular the strong development of the National Field Research Centre for Environmental Conservation (NFRCEC) has meant that the OEP and NFRCEC teams are building strong links and productive working relationships. The programme has also achieved successes in beginning further socio-economic and ecological research.

The programme has continued to influence environmental research and education in Oman, and is now expanding its activities with the full implementation of all research projects and a growing network of Omani conservationists collaborating with OEP. There is also a growing and stronger link between the NFRCEC and OEP staff.

In the last year the Jebel Samhan Research project has produced the socio-economic study report that summarises results from discussions with the community. This baseline socio-economic and land use study identified different land use economies between the communities in the north, south and east of Jebel Samhan.

The Arabian Leopard Conservation Conference planning is well underway.

A botany training course helped the team and invited participants to increase their knowledge of plants in the Dhofar Mountains.

The Arabian tahr ecosystem research, conservation and community project has continued to conduct ground-breaking research into the ecology of this species.

One part of this project, the Oman wide surveys of Arabian tahr have been

extended with a total of 170 camera and sign survey placements being completed across the Hajar Mountains. The study to understand the natural movements, ranging area, activity and habitat selection of the tahr has continued with the deployment of 9 GPS collars on captured Arabian tahr. Outreach about the projects findings are now being presented to a number of audiences. For example, a presentation was given at the Arabian Conservation Workshop in Sharjah in February; and a coffee table book about the Arabian tahr has been written by the project and published by NFRCEC. This year saw the start of research on the project focussing on the woodlands of Jebel Akdhar and Jebel Shams.

Now titled ‘Research for conservation of high altitude woodland habitats on Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams in the Hajar mountain range’ this project aims to work closely with the local community in order determine the major reasons for the deteriorating conditions of some mountain woodlands, and to develop and pilot community-based approaches to their sustainable management.

The project began with a focus on identifying and meeting informally with key project stakeholders on (and off) Jebel Akhdar. This included meeting the deputy Wali, municipality officials and local ministry staff. Socio-economic surveys began on Jebel Akhdar with a study on ‘Environmental perceptions and conservation priorities’. This study is designed to establish a baseline of community awareness about the Jebel Akhdar environment and provide direction from the community to the project team on their key conservation concerns and properties. Links with Oman Botanic Gardens and Sultan Qaboos University are being maintained to ensure all work in the site is complementary.

The fourth project to be developed, ‘The socio-economic and environmental sustainability of the Aflaj Project’ is now in full development. Dr Abdullah al Ghafri and Dr Dennis Powers (University of Nizwa) have agreed to lead the project for the interim and they have written a detailed research proposal.

The project’s primary goal is to enhance the long-term sustainable use of the Luzugh falaj for the benefit of humans (economically and socially) through piloting practical solutions, which at the same time will allow for an ecosystem to support biodiversity in Oman. Introductory meetings with the Wali and wakil have happened, and detailed mapping of the Luzugh falaj and agricultural areas will shortly be underway.

Year 4 has seen the development of a new methodology to complete a biodiversity assessment of the Hajar Mountains, and expanding the work of the Tahr Project. This exciting new initiative will target the northern mountains of Oman for the first time to understand the areas of species richness within this regionally important biodiversity hotspot for Arabia.

The methodology is called the Mobile Environmental Research Units (MERU): Oman Hajar Mountains Biodiversity Survey. One of the major goals of MERU is to provide hands-on training to NFRCEC field staff in essential logistic, research and field techniques to build capacity in conducting environmental field research. In this year the research equipment, research goals, research staff and fielding logistics have been organised. It is expected that this research will provide a baseline dataset for future management and research action.

The building of a cadre of development specialists and educators in Oman has seen a major step forward in Year 4, with

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

the recruitment of a strong NFRCEC field team. These staff and those from other conservation organisations have been participated in a number of training experiences. Earthwatch developed a Training Programme for NFRCEC Field Assistants, this includes both office and field based activities.

Including presentations of conservation biology, and learning ecological and social science field research techniques; this began in May 2012. Also three Botany courses were delivered on the Arabian tahr, Jebel Samhan Research and Woodlands projects, introducing 31 participants from NFRCEC, OCE, OBG, and MECA to basic botanical identification and recording skills.

Wilderness First Aid courses have successfully trained 13 NFRCEC field assistants and OCE staff to ensure all those that take part in field research are knowledgeable and have practical experience of handling medical scenarios in remote locations.

The education team, made up of Bushra al Wahaibi (NFRCEC), Saeida Rouass (Earthwatch), and Marwa al Mukhaini (NFRCEC) are now working very effectively together. The team have collaborated closely with the Assistant Director of Science Curriculum within the Ministry of Education, and this is proving very successful for this area of work.

A teaching and learning resource pack titled ‘Wildlife of the Hajar Mountain Series’ has been developed in consultation with the Ministry of Education and teachers. It includes 13 species booklets with accompanying activity sheets in both English and Arabic.

Considerable progress has been made this year in increasing the number of Omani scientists involved with the research. This includes NFRCEC staff being trained in the field in socioeconomic, ecological and ornithological research methods with the OEP

consultants. Selection has begun for candidates to receive studentships to conduct their research as part of the field projects. A PhD student working on Juniper regeneration on J Akdhar at SQU has received funding for research equipment.

OEP have recruited a new expert in GIS, Remote Sensing and Database management. Dr Ehsan Khalifa joins the programme from the University of Leicester, UK, where she has just completed a Post-Doctoral position.

She brings the skills to contribute to research design and analysis, as well as ensuring that datasets from each project are stored and accessible effectively for future use.

The socio-economic work during Year 4 focused heavily upon the Jebel Akhdar Woodlands Project. In the preparatory stages of this project researchers carried out mapping of the project area, identifying villages and road networks.

Dr Coien Hoek joined Dr Alan Roe to conduct this work. Two days of preparatory training on conducting surveys and data entry and use of databases was given to NFRCEC field staff. Five research staff from the NFRCEC were involved in its implementation and undertook a sample survey of 309 interviews at 18 settlements spread across the Jebel Akhdar.

Ornithological work began this year with the recruitment of Dr Mike McGrady, who produced a plan to conduct bird focused research in at least 2 of the field project sites. In August and September, NFRCEC field assistants were involved in on-going research on sooty falcons (Falco concolor) on the islands in the Gulf of Oman. They helped survey breeding birds; capture breeding adults, ring and process breeding and nestling falcons.

Contributing to the development of the NFRCEC is an important part of OEPs

role. The OEP team (James Burton, Saeida Rouass and Steve Bishop) is providing advice and help to train the NFRCEC staff members. Weekly meetings were arranged from March 2013 for NFRCEC and OEP team to update on all activities. In June Dr Saif al Shaqsi made a visit to UK to meet with potential international partners for the NFRCEC, during which a number of important collaborative ideas were discussed.

There has been good progress in strengthening partnership links in Oman, with the Ministry of Education, the Aflaj Research Unit at Nizwa University, SQU, with the support given to a PhD student working in Jebel Akdhar.

The vital area of field safety and operations has developed greatly during this year. Some key achievements include training of 9 NFRCEC staff in Wilderness First Aid, at two courses, one in April in Wadi Sareen and one in Muscat in September. This gives them the skills to work safely in the field environment.

Also 9 NFRCEC staff took a two-day defensive driver training course in Muscat with TATI in September 2013. Risk Management documentation has been updated for three of the projects and they continue to operate safely and efficiently, with the forth project’s documents to be completed shortly before it begins in the field. The logistical set-up of the Mobile Environmental Research Unit has been completed, including a full field camp, as well as accommodation for the Woodland project.

Finally, carbon emissions for the programme have been tracked and offset as usual. Wherever possible, the team work to reduce the programme’s carbon footprint.

Dr James Burton Senior Research and Programme Manager, OEP

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2 Programme Objectives and Progress Reports Oct 2012 - Sept 2013 This section of the report summarises progress so far against the objectives which were put in place for the Oman Earthwatch Programme.

These stem from the Memorandum of Understanding agreed with the Diwan of Royal Court. Progress reports against research, education, training, safety and operational activities associated with the programme for Year 4 are provided in the following section, covering the period of October 2012 - September 2013.

Objective To develop a cadre of development specialists and educators in the Sultanate of Oman to take a lead in developing the long term role of the programme.

Related OEP Impact More effective management of reserves achieved, with an aim to enhance the conservation status, of four sites in Oman.

Developing the Cadre of Research and Education Specialists Field Scientist and Conservation Staff training: This year has seen Botany courses delivered on the Arabian tahr, Jebel Samhan Research and Woodlands projects, introducing 31 participants from OCE, MECA and the NFRCEC to basic botanical identification and recording skills. The five day courses were delivered by international experts from the Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh, and covered skills such as: • Understanding the principles of how to carry out plant identification in the field

• Knowledge of important vegetative and reproductive plant parts

• Collection, drying and preserving of a range of plant samples in the field

• Ability to identify a range of plants from different groups/families, by multiple characteristics

• Carrying out methods that can be used for habitat surveying within botanical field work

• Use and production of dichotomous and other types of identification keys

Wilderness First Aid courses have also been run; training 13 NFRCEC field assistants and OCE staff over a three day period in basic first aid skills and how to apply them in a remote setting.

This course includes theoretical and practical work and ends in a scenario exercise where the participants’ understanding is put to the test in a simulated “real life” situation.

• Fieldwork basics - the purpose and intended outcomes, and how to prepare for a field trip • Data collection methods for botanical field work • Data recording of information in various formats whilst in the field

Debbie Winton Program Manager

Earthwatch developed a Training Programme for NFRCEC Field Assistants, which began in May 2012 and is ongoing. The table below details the training programme and progress made.

TRAINING PURPOSE

SAFETY AND RISK Overall: to enable participants to be safe and effective in the field

TIMING DATES

Wilderness First Aid

To qualify to Wilderness Level 2 before going into the field without a qualified person, to ensure they are safe in the field

3/4/5 September - Muscat

Driver training/vehicle safety

Needs to be completed before driving any vehicle for EW purposes - for their own/passenger safety and for insurance purposes

29th/30th May

Introduction to EW/projects

James to talk about EW and our projects and conservation biology

19th May 10.00

Risk Management training

To ensure FA are safe in the field: including preparation, risk recognition and management, use of kit, documentation and its purpose

14th May 10.00

FIELD SKILLS

Overall: develop field skills to enable participants to effectively and accurately undertake field research to support the lead scientists on the four projects in Oman

Social Survey techniques

Understanding what surveys are for, the different types of surveys, different survey tools and different survey methods

Week 20th May for two weeks

GPS

Effective use of GPS

Babu cancelled 19th so TBC

Camera trapping

How to employ camera trap methods effectively and analyse data

Aug/Sept

Ecological survey tech

Understanding what surveys are for, the different types of surveys, different survey tools and different survey methods

Small mammal trapping

How to effectively and safely trap small mammals (using a variety of small mammal traps) and process individuals

Aug/Sept

Scientific field observations

Making scientific observations, e.g. of plants, scat etc

Aug/Sept

Sampling strategy

Understanding different sampling strategies and are able to follow sampling methodology

Dec

Data recording

How to accurately record data to a set methodology

Dec

Data entry

How to accurately enter data using agreed protocols into a database and retrieve data when needed

TBC

Conservation biology/ecology

Understanding the importance of studying plants and animals with the aim of protecting them, their habitats and the ecosystems they live in

TBC

Oman biodiversity

Understanding diversity of habitats, plants and animals and the interaction between them within Oman

Aug/Sept

Jebel Samhan Research project

Tessa to introduce the Jebel Samhan Research project to the FAs

26th May 10.00

Botany

Participants can apply procedures for identifying botanical species and have knowledge of a number of key species in their region

TBC

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Overall: to enable participants to successfully communicate and engage with a wide range of audiences

English Language training

Enable participants to communicate more effectively in English

Jun-13

Presenting and Engaging

Instil confidence to talk to different audiences about the research they are doing, the NC and the importance of both

26th May 12.00

Citizen Science

Understand the importance of engaging citizen scientists - learning through doing - examples of good teaching experience

TBC

Work has also been carried out this year to improve coordination of activities for delivery of this objective, including development of a two year schedule of teams leading up to the end of the programme, and regular reviews against action plan targets to enable us to assess progress and identify potential shortfalls in Years 5 and 6.

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3 Objective To identify and develop relevant field research and pilot projects on issues that relate to sustainability of the environment and the continuing priority to map, monitor and manage Oman’s rich nature and cultural resources.

Related OEP Impact Specialists and research are set up and underway as a framework for continued Omani-run research at four sites & structure exists to support those implementing the management plan (managers) i.e. a board to ensure the long term conservation of nature at the research project sites.

Development of Research Projects and Staff Khalifa al Hijji and James Burton (OEP Research Manager) continue to work closely together and increase

their joint knowledge of research and conservation in Oman through reading articles, meetings with key conservation practitioners and attending events.

In particular they both attended the Sharjah Conservation in the Middle

East Workshop in February. During this meeting they increased their knowledge and contacts working in this field across the region.

Arabian tahr Ecosystem Research, Conservation and Community Project • A behavioural experiment to investigate the reasons Arabian tahr dig pits and dust themselves has been set up at 10 different sites with 20 video camera traps. This behavioural research is yielding interesting results and is nearing completion.

• The Oman wide surveys of Arabian tahr have been extended with a total of 170 camera and sign survey placements being completed across the Hajar Mountains. We have completed surveys in Musandam and part of the eastern Hajars. Cameras will be collected from the Central and Western Hajars by the end of winter 2014.

PROJECT 1

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• GPS radio collars were purchased, a new tahr trap design was devised and tested, and a total of 10 tahr were captured over a 3 month trapping period.

PROJECT 1

• A total of 9 GPS collars have now been deployed on captured Arabian tahr and are collecting data on natural movements, ranging area, activity and habitat selection.

• We have initiated a collection of blood and faecal pellets from Arabian tahr in order to study genetic diversity and genetic sub-structuring of the population across Oman.

• Findings from the tahr project were presented at the Shargia conservation workshop.

• Results from the tahr research were contributed towards the Arabian tahr chapter of the CIC Caprinae Atlas of the World (IUCN Caprinae SSC).

• A workshop and presentation was given for teachers local to the Wadi Sareen Reserve by the education team.

• Education materials describing Hajar Mountain Biodiversity and linked to Omani National Curriculum have been completed by the Education team based upon research of the Arabian tahr project.

• A coffee table book about the Arabian tahr was written and will be published

by NFRCEC in the near future.

• Saeed Hamed al Rashdi has joined the tahr project team, and is receiving training and starting to contribute towards the tahr research. We hope his involvement will increase in the coming year.

• The majority of the goals of the research project are on schedule to be complete by the end of the project cycle. These will answer important questions relating to the species ecology and future conservation.

3 PROJECT 2

PROJECT 2

Plan for Mobile Environmental Research Units: Oman Hajar Mountains Biodiversity Survey Research equipment, research goals, research staff and fielding logistics have been organised to start the Mobile Environmental Research Units (MERU).

• The next phase is to test methodologies and research objectives in the field in order to write a feasible

proposal of research and training activities for the next 2 years.

and make connections with Oman’s natural environment.

• A major goal and opportunity of MERU is to provide hands-on training to National Centre field staff in essential logistic, research and field techniques to build capacity in conducting environmental field research.

• Research will make a quantitative contribution towards understanding factors influencing biological diversity in the mountain ecosystem.

• The camp will also host participants from other organisations to gain field research experience, increase environmental awareness

• Our research will increase knowledge of the distribution and representation of rarely studied species groups.

• We will provide a baseline dataset for future management and research action.

3 PROJECT 3

The Jebel Samhan Research

PROJECT 3

The baseline Socioeconomic and land use study report on Jebel Samhan was produced.

This summarised results from discussions with the community.

• The research was implemented in cooperation with MECA, and the findings identified different land use economies between the communities in the north, south and east of Jebel Samhan. These surveys constitute the

first work of this type undertaken for the Reserve - essential for planning and management of the reserve area.

• A Botany training course was conducted in Jebel Samhan Reserve, to help the team and invited participants increase their knowledge of plants in the Dhofar Mountains. This was completed successfully working with Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh.

• A short pilot laboratory phase of work for research on Arabian leopard genetics began in the UK, at the University of Canterbury, Kent, Durrell Institute of Conservation Ecology.

• An ambitious plan to hold a conference to help in conservation of the leopard was begun with setting up Organising and Scientific Committees. These met frequently led by NFRCEC and Earthwatch with participants from the main contributing organisations.

• The IUCN-SSC Cat Specialist Group co-Chairs agreed to act as project advisors and specifically to facilitate the Arabian Leopard Conference, bringing their wealth of international conservation knowledge to Oman.

3 PROJECT 4

Research for Conservation of High Altitude Woodland Habitats on Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams in the Hajar Mountain Range

PROJECT 4

This project aims to work closely with the local community in order to determine the major reasons for the deteriorating conditions of some mountain woodlands, and to develop and pilot communitybased approaches to their sustainable management.

• The year project began with a focus on identifying and meeting informally with key project stakeholders on (and off) Jebel Akhdar. These included

the deputy Wali, municipality officials and local ministry staff, as well as opportunistic discussions with some Jebel residents. This included an opening ceremony with members of the local community and staff from NFRCEC. • The Project Document for this project was completed in August and the document was forwarded to the NFRCEC board, where it was approved.

• The socio-economic surveys began on Jebel Akhdar with ‘Environmental perceptions and conservation priorities’ study. This study was designed to establish a baseline of community awareness about the Jebel Akhdar environment and provide direction

from the community to the project team on their key conservation concerns and properties. The study was undertaken utilizing a stratified random sample survey methodology. On completion it will have encompassed over 310 men, women and children of school age from all parts of the Jebel Akhdar.

• Research plans are in development for a vegetation and habitat condition assessment. Vegetation assessments will be conducted across the Jebel Akhdar utilizing a stratified nested sampling design.

• The project house in Sayq Qatanah was established and equipped for the research team to sleep there.

The Socioeconomic and Environmental Sustainability of the Aflaj Project The project’s primary goal is to enhance the long-term sustainable use of the Luzugh falaj for the benefit of humans (economically and socially) through piloting practical solutions, which at the same time will allow for an ecosystem to support biodiversity in Oman.

• The Project Document for this project was completed in August and the document was forwarded to the NFRCEC board, where it was approved.

PROJECT 5

• Dr Abdullah al Ghafri and Dr Dennis Powers have agreed to lead the project for the interim until a Project Leader is recruited.

• Introductory meetings with the Wali and Wakil will happen shortly.

• Detailed mapping of the Luzugh falaj and agricultural areas will shortly be underway.

PROJECT 1

3 PROJECT 5

3 PROJECT 6

PROJECT 6

GIS, Remote Sensing and Database Development Dr Ehsan Khalifa was recruited from the University of Leicester, UK, where she has just completed a Post-Doctoral position of GIS and remote sensing in arid landscapes.

She will begin work in October 2013 and is already becoming familiar with the projects and available mapping information for Oman.

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Social Science Research Socio-economic work during 2012-2013 focused heavily upon the Jebel Akhdar Woodlands Project (which was officially launched in February).

PROJECT 7

In the preparatory stages of this project researchers lay the ground work by engaging relevant institutional and community stakeholders on the Jebel, and discussing the project with them. Another significant step was the socio-economic definition and mapping of the project area, identifying villages and road networks. Also, the report from the social science research in Jebel Samhan was completed.

Dr Coien Hoek, joined Dr Alan Roe to conduct this work.

• In May 2013 the Jebel Akhdar Woodlands Project Document was redrafted to place additional emphasis upon the socio-economic aspects of woodlands conservation.

• Research on Jebel Akhdar commenced with an innovative study of community perceptions and

PROJECT 7

conservation priorities, intended to help direct the project in a direction that would be consistent with achieving sustainable community conservation of woodlands. The study was designed with support from Sultan Qaboos University and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh.

Permission to undertake this study was secured from the Ministry of the Economy.

• The community perceptions and conservation priorities study was undertaken intermittently between May and July. Five research staff from the NFRCEC were involved in its implementation and undertook a sample survey of 309 interviews at 18 settlements spread across the Jebel Akhdar. The sample group included men women and school age children.

In addition to gauging individual ecological knowledge, this study recorded community knowledge of the various species of plants and animals found in woodlands’ habitats, with the intention of producing species distribution maps. The study further identifies and geospatially references

areas perceived to hold biodiversity and economic values, and captures community views of how these values are threatened. Data collected from fieldwork phase of this study was then entered into a database.

• Two days of preparatory training was given to NFRCEC field staff prior to implementation of the Jebel Akhdar survey, and this continued with mentoring in the field. In July, training was given to NFRCEC field staff on data entry and use of databases.

• Jebel Samhan Research Project socio-economic survey: 2200 pages of data collected was translated (from Arabic to English) and data input to a database. The draft report arising from this study was completed in Sept 2013. This study identifies the principle socio-economic attributes of communities utilizing the Jebel Samhan reserve, and provides an overview of this resource used across the reserve and its economic value to the local economy. The report highlights some key conservation challenges and opportunities arising from this analysis.

3 PROJECT 8

PROJECT 8

Ornithological Research A workplan was agreed that provides a framework for incorporating bird research into existing EW/NFRCEC projects, and a basis for developing plans for the future.

• In August and September, field assistants were incorporated

into on-going research on sooty falcons (Falco concolor) on the islands in the Gulf of Oman. They helped survey breeding birds; capture breeding adults, ring and process breeding and nestling falcons.

• A reconnaissance/pilot trip is planned to PDO’s Nimr camp during 7th to the 10th October to prepare what bird research is possible there.

• Field assistants were introduced to places near Muscat that are important to birds. These places provide nearby field classrooms for the field assistants where they can practice bird identification. It is hoped that they will become part of the on-going survey and monitoring efforts of others at these sites.

Khalifa al Hijji, Tessa McGregor, Steve Ross, Alan Roe, Mike McGrady, Azan al Kalbani, Nasser al Rahbi, Chloe MacLaren, James Burton.

Supporting the National Field Research Centre for Environmental Conservation (NFRCEC) and Networking This has been a very significant year for the development of the NFRCEC, with many new staff joining the team and all of the field staff being trained and gaining experience of field research.

Dr James Burton took over the day to day relationship with the NFRCEC, as Roderic stepped into the role of Advisor to the NFRCEC and OEP in May. Nigel Winser also increased his contributions to the OEP working with the NFRCEC at a strategic level.

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NFRCEC and OEP further enhancing collaboration: • Earthwatch staff began to advise and help train the NFRCEC staff members.

So far, this has mainly concerned James Burton, Saeida Rouass and Steve Bishop working with counterparts at the NFRCEC. The work will expand when new staff are appointed to NFRCEC during Year 4.

• Weekly meetings were arranged from March 2013 for NFRCEC and OEP team to update them on field and education activities and ensure everyone is aware of activities going on.

NFRCEC developing international links: • Earthwatch arranged a visit to by the UK in June by Dr Saif al Shaqsi (CEO of NFRCEC) to create and strengthen links between NFRCEC and various UK individuals and institutions including: Prof John Briggs, Univ of Glasgow (to discuss the projected NFRCEC journal of field studies), Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh (to draft an MoU about sharing their collection of Omani plants), Dr Peter Brotherton, Natural England, UNEP-WCMC, IUCN Cambridge, Natural History Museum, London, Royal Geographic Society, London.

• Khalifa al Hijji participated in the Sharjah Conservation Workshop in February and gained an insight into the conservation research and protected area management within the region. This helped him build his network and also to identify opportunities for programmes to be developed in Oman.

• The preparation for the International Leopard Conference took a major step forward with the visit to Oman

by Christine Breitenmoser (Chair of the IUCN-SSC Cat Specialist Group) in June. Multiple planning meetings were held with the Scientific Committee of Leopard Conference, involving OCE, MECA, SQU, Oman National Breeding Centre.

• The early stages of organising a one-day seminar at the Royal Geographical Society, London, were put in place. The event will focus on the Natural Heritage of the Sultanate of Oman: field science, past, present and future, and will be held on March 4th 2014.

Strengthening partnership links in Oman: • OEP contributed to further develop the collaboration with the Ministry of Education. This included a discussion

Objective To provide a forum for the science research and policy implementation communities to meet, agree priorities and exchange information and ideas.

Related OEP Impact Growing an Omani organisation to achieve effective communication between the policy makers, implementers and field researchers, and to have positive environmental impact at a national level.

about holding a 2 day workshop for 20 teachers, as well as publishing Hajar Mountain educational materials to be used as part of curriculum.

• A partnership was developed with the Aflaj Research Unit at Nizwa University and NFRCEC and Earthwatch, for the leadership of research and delivery of the Falaj Project.

• Collaboration continued with SQU, with the support and advice given to Leila al Haddabi, a PhD student working on Juniper regeneration on Jebel Akdhar at SQU. • Discussion with OBG and SQU on the Jebel Akdhar Woodland Project continued with a meeting in September of the NFRCEC/Earthwatch project team and representatives from SQU and OBG. A clear understanding of each organisations research areas was gained and it was agreed further meetings should be held in 2014 to discuss collaboration in the next phase of the NFRCEC/EW project.

James Burton Senior Research and Programme Manager, OEP Nigel Winser Executive Vice President Middle East and India Roderic Dutton Advisor

5 Environmental Education Work with education community, teachers, students and schools.

NFRCEC and Earthwatch education staff work closely to ensure the results of fieldwork are shared with the education community, both formally through the Sultanate of Oman’s national curriculum and informally through school based projects, meetings and workshops.

The team, made up of Bushra al Wahaibi (NFRCEC) and Saeida Rouass (Earthwatch), with the support of other NFRCEC staff, work closely together to develop education activities that build towards Business Plan targets and ensure the education community contributes to and benefits from

the four research projects. The education team take a top-down, bottom-up approach, ensuring engagement happens at all levels of the education system.

Here is an outline of achievements this year

Ministry of Education engagement A strong working relationship has been developed between the NFRCEC/ Earthwatch and the Ministry of Education Science Curriculum Division.

The education team have collaborated closely with the Assistant Director of Science Curriculum within the MoE in the development of education materials based on research currently taking place in Wadi Sareen Reserve.

In particular: • The MoE Science Division have reviewed and provided constructive feedback on the ‘Wildlife of the Hajar Mountain Series’ teaching and learning resource pack.

• The Assistant Director has presented the resource pack to the Director of the Science Curriculum Division and the English Language Division to explore cross-disciplinary usages of the materials.

• The education team are working closely with the Assistant Director of Science to submit the ‘Wildlife of the Hajar Mountain Series’ to the Learning Resources Review Panel within the Ministry of Education to consider its integration into national curriculum learning standards and resources.

Objective To ensure that the results of the fieldwork are shared with the education community - formally through Sultanate of Oman’s national curriculum; and informally through meetings, workshops, the media and other means.

Related OEP Impact Teachers, pupils and communities local to the research projects have a greater understanding and appreciation of their natural environment; and research projects feed into environmental education at a National level.

School engagement A strong working relationship has been developed between the NFRCEC/ Earthwatch and Khawlah Bint al Yaman School in Wadi Sareen Reserve.

This year: • Teachers from the school have provided constructive feedback on the ‘Wildlife of the Hajar Mountain Series,’ allowing the education team to develop the pack with their specific teaching and learning needs in mind.

• A series of planning meetings have taken place with NFRCEC/EW and the school in order to develop a list of environmental education activities for the current academic year.

• NFRCEC/EW and the school are in the process of developing a school

environmental club, made up of teachers, students, NFRCEC and EW staff, who will work closely on executing agreed education initiatives.

Educational materials development A teaching and learning resource pack titled ‘Wildlife of the Hajar Mountain Series’ has been developed in consultation with the Ministry of Education and teachers at Khawlah Bint al Yaman School in Wadi Sareen Reserve.

The pack is based on data from research currently taking place within the Reserve and highlights animal and plant species within the area, current status and threats and field research methods being utilised.

The pack meets education targets set out in the NFRCEC/EW business plan by providing 4 curriculum linked educational and general awareness materials.

The pack includes: •

•

•

•

•

13 species booklets with accompanying activity sheets in both English and Arabic A pack of picture and word flashcards An awareness raising poster highlighting the Arabian tahr Two resource pack promotional posters A teacher guide book

Saeida Rouass Learning Manager, OEP Bushra al Wahaibi NFRCEC

6 Omani Scientists Conducting Own Fieldwork Dr Abdullah al Ghafri of Nizwa University has agreed to be the interim Project Leader for the project: Socio-economic and environmental sustainability of the Aflaj of Oman.

Objective To identify and train leading Omani scientists to direct their own field projects in the Sultanate of Oman and elsewhere in the world.

Related OEP Impact To increase the number of Omani scientists with enhanced skills for field-based research.

• Studentships candidates: 3 studentship candidates were successfully interviewed for MSc and PhD funded posts; further candidates will be interviewed in the coming 3 months.

• Leila al Haddabi, a PhD student working on Juniper regeneration on J Akdhar at SQU has received funding for research equipment and field logistics from OEP, as a collaboration with the Woodland Project.

• NFRCEC staff skills development on Field Projects: - Socio-economic research: all 5 field assistants were trained in socio-economic survey methods

by Dr Alan Roe; they used their skills and were further coached while they conducted surveys in Jebel Akdhar.

- Ecological research: Said al Rashdi, NFRCEC Biologist has received training in data clean-up and preliminary analysis by Dr Steve Ross.

- Ornithological Research Azan al Kalbani, Nasser al Rahbi, NFRCEC Biologist and Field Assistant received training in bird identification and bird survey methods at a number of locations in northern Oman by Dr Mike McGrady.

James Burton, Khalifa al Hijji, Hussein al Qasmi

7

Operations and Safety in the Field

Steve Bishop is spending an increasing amount of time in Oman, overseeing and organising these areas of the programme. During Year 4, the following things were achieved:

• Two Wilderness First Aid courses have been completed in this fiscal year, one in April in Wadi Sareen and one in September in Muscat. This has included all eight of the new NFRCEC field staff as well as Hussein.

• Between January 2013 and September 2013, Earthwatch prepared for the set-up of the Mobile Environmental Research Unit (MERU).

This included purchasing the field and research kit, recruiting staff and preparing the fielding schedule.

• The Jebel Samhan Research project house was moved to a more suitable location on the same complex. This now provides for a more functional and professional looking workspace.

• Three botany training courses were run between October 2012 and March 2013 in Jebel Samhan, Wadi Sareen and Jebel Akhdar respectively. These courses were five days in duration and included members of OCE, MECA, Nizwa and SQ universities as well as several members of the National Centre.

• Nine members of OEP staff and National Centre field staff attended a two-day defensive driver training course in Muscat with TATI in September 2013.

• A programme of training was formulated and the NFRCEC field staff are now six months into this training.

• A house was rented for use by the Woodlands team in Saqu. This house is fully fitted out with much of the furniture taken from the Wadi Sareen house. The house is the physical base for the project as well as providing accommodation and meeting space.

This will also be a storage space for project equipment.

• Risk management documentation has been updated for four of the five projects and they continue to operate safely and efficiently. A risk assessment has also been put in place for bird research pilot visit to the PDO/Bauer

7

Nimr project, working in partnership with BNO/PDO.

• Earthwatch are in the process of moving offices to the building next door to the NFRCEC office on al Bashir street, MSQ. Apart from the fixed phone line, the building is operational and ready for use, including an excellent meeting space.

• In total, in fiscal year 2013, five new vehicles were purchased for the OEP. These were:

- 2 x Prados for the Woodland and Freshwater projects - 2 x staff vehicles - 1 x Landcruiser for the MERU project.

Further, Earthwatch are also using Roderic’s landcruiser for the MERU project. All vehicles have been fitted out with additional safety equipment.

• A successful induction programme was set up and run for five new OEP consultants.

Steve Bishop Logistics, Safety and Risk Management, OEP

44 2

5

14

22 WOODLANDS

INTERNATIONAL

OTHER COURSES

Number of participants by organisation

MECA

OCE

UNIVERSITIES

6

13 5

Measuring achievements, or capturing the successes of the OEP, requires a framework of questions, values and quantitative measures against which to assess the projects, programmes and other activities.

The framework is based on Earthwatch’s structure of organisational High Level Goals (HLGs) and Measures of Success (MoS). For each activity conducted by the OEP, we identify where it contributes to these Measures of Success, as well as cross-checking with the OEP Impacts document for achievement against targets related to the MoU.

TAHR

11

In Year 3 the OEP team identified a need to develop a series of clear measures of success against which the programme can be monitored, in addition to monitoring achievements against MoU programme objectives.

JEBEL SAMHAN BIODIVERSITY PROJECT

20

Capturing OEP Successes

32

8

Number of participants by project

OBG

NFRCEC

OTHER/ UNKNOWN

Research achievements summary: •

•

• • •

Research projects established - two established, two in progress.

Social science studies continued on Jebel Samhan Research and woodland projects.

Botanical studies begun.

Ornithological studies begun.

Influencing conservation. management through assistance in planning an Arabian Leopard Conservation Conference for drafting of a National Action Plan for the Arabian leopard.

Example of how one of the OEP research projects is achieving success The Arabian tahr ecosystem research, conservation and community project.

Actions and activities carried out between October 2012 and September 2013 led by lead scientists Dr Steve Ross have included: Four instances of national organisations engaged e.g. In November contributed towards the next six months of Management Actions in Wadi Sareen, to make a feasible plan of action for the rangers and OCE staff.

Two instances of enabling organizations to become more sustainable e.g. Discussed data management in Wadi Sareen with OCE, looking at software, system, and framework.

In November, conducted a Data Management workshop with OCE in which he presented a data management system, gave examples then discussed how to implement each stage, training requirements and timetable. Will continue to provide support and training as required.

Six instances of informing environmental policy or management plans e.g. Invited by OCE to Review Wadi Sareen Management plan in November and has been providing comments and support ever since.

Also, in February, was nominated to join the IUCN Caprinae Specialist Group.

Twenty actions monitoring natural capital e.g. Camera trap surveys, identifying corridor areas, conducting choice experiments and GPS collaring surveys.

Five activities developing environmental leaders e.g. In April, met with Dr Dawood about future support from OCE and agreed future use of OCE staff to carry out tahr work; also took four NFRCEC staff to Wadi Sareen, and taught them about using camera traps and detecting tracks and signs of animals in the area.

Ten popular publications or outreach activities e.g. Contributed towards the Arabian Tahr chapter of the CIC Caprinae Atlas of the World (IUCN Caprinae SSC); meeting and trip with teachers in Wadi Sareen, giving a presentation about environmentalism in Oman; presented a paper at Sharjah Conservation Workshop.

Education achievements summary: •

•

•

Re-versioning of Hajar Mountain Series educational materials continues after having been reviewed and feedback sought.

Ministry of Education have inputted into Hajar Mountain Series, and desire to utilise the materials when complete.

Education plan now in progress.

•

Outreach activities including presentations in schools and school visits to project sites are being recorded, to measure the level of contributions towards raising awareness of environmental issues and research in Oman.

Contributing to the development of the NFRCEC: • Capacity development of NFRCEC staff for delivery of Centre activities began, with implementation of a training programme (see table on next page) and regular involvement in field work. Including opportunities to join international Earthwatch projects and Wilderness First Aid training.

• Facilitating collaborative working with other sector players.

• Development of partnerships with national corporations (e.g. PDO proposal).

• Support and mentoring to help with delivery of strategy workshops (e.g. Arabian leopard Conservation Conference).

• Support developing job descriptions and professional development plans for Field Assistants and junior office staff.

Debbie Winton Programme Manager, OEP

Carbon Management As part of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Diwan of Royal Court, the OEP committed to keeping carbon emissions produced through programme activities to a minimum, offsetting emissions which occurred and aiming to reduce overall emissions over the course of the OEP. • During Year 4, all international and internal flights were tracked in terms of their carbon footprint. Other travel including rail, road and ferry journeys and project vehicle mileage have all been included in scoping and will be offset. Please see the table for a breakdown.

• The carbon dioxide has been offset through ClimateCare, an organisation who have created a portfolio of offsetting projects for Earthwatch. Carbon credits have been purchased on validated projects and details of these projects will be available retrospectively.

• At the end of the programme (Year 6, 2015) a full report on the carbon impacts and offset activities will be produced for the programme.

This will include the tonnes of CO2 offset each year.

9 OMAN PROGRAMME AREA

GHG emissions tCO 2 eq

Offset Cost @£3.70 per tonne

Electricity (Oman office)

59.96

221.86

Total Business Travel (Includes vehicle mileage)

165.95

614.03

Total Fellows Travel and In-Field Allowance

63.33

234.33

Factor of Safety (10%)

107.02 289.25

1177.24 Sue Morris Programme Administrator, OEP

Oman Earthwatch Programme would like to thank Dr Saif al Shaqsi for his leadership, support and collaboration to achieve the successes outlined. We are also grateful to his team for their hard work in facilitating and conducting this work.

These include Abdulhalim al Rashdi, Dr Alan Roe, Ashraf Mohammed, Ayaub al Balushi, Azan al Kalbani, Bader al Busaidi, Bushra al Wahaibi, Chloe Maclaren, Dr Corien Hoek, Debbie Winton, Dr Abdullah al Ghafri, Dr Dennis Powers, Dr Ehsan Khalefa, Fadi Dada, Fatma al Zadgali, Hammad al Huseini, Hana al Hinai, Hussien al Qasmi, Dr James Burton, Joe Monks, John Cody, Khalid al Badri, Khalifa al Hijji, Maimoona al Ajmi, Marwa al Mukhaini, Dr Mike McGrady, Mohammed al Hadabi, Mohammed al Muqimi, Nasser al Rahabi, Nigel Winser, Dr Roderic Dutton, Ruth Kamnitzer, Saeida Rouass, Said al Rashdi, Salah al Mazrui, Steve Bishop, Dr Steve Ross, Steve Sharland, Sultan al Raqadi, Waleed al Zakwani and Zakaria al Mauwali.

The following people contributed images to this publication: Nigel Winser, Roderic Dutton, Dr James Burton, Dr Steve Ross, Chloe Maclaren, Alan Roe, Steve Bishop, Fadi Dada.