Scientific Field Survey Report for the Development of MPAs in Libya out now!

WWF MedPO, UNEP RAC/SPA and EGA have published a report integrating biodiversity assessments and socio-economic data for the Ain El Ghazala and Bomba in Libya.  The report includes a summary description of the field survey carried out by international and national experts. The experts collected data on the marine biotopes and species and put together a socio-economic profile of local fishermen and hunters with a view to elaborating management plan outlines.

The white coastline of Libya embraces one of the last portions of the Mediterranean where marine biodiversity is still rich and human impact relatively low. Ain Al Ghazala is a key nesting site for the Caretta caretta sea turtle, one of the last pristine areas for sea grass meadows and is an important site for migratory bird species. Unfortunately, in the last decades, the rate of exploitation of marine resources has accelerated tremendously and the national political situation has delayed the implementation of serious conservation measures to protect this unique heritage. In September 2010, the Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA) of UNEP/MAP and WWF Mediterranean Programme Office (WWF MedPO) organised with the Environmental General Authority of Libya (EGA) a field survey of the area comprising Ain El Ghazala and Bomba. This area was subsequently declared by Libyan authorities as a new Marine Protected Area (Establishment No 2:2011).

During the field activities, on-the-job and formal training sessions were provided to strengthen the capacity of local scientists and experts on MPA design, underwater biodiversity assessment and socio-economic aspects related to MPA establishment. The report complements existing documentation on Libya and it provides the basis for the management of the Ain El Ghazala MPA.

To view the report follow the link here.