PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
Some 95% of the nesting sites of the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) in the Mediterranean Sea are concentrated on Greek, Turkish, Cypriot and Libyan coasts. The nesting of the species in southern Italy is considered to have been quite sporadic and irregular in the past few decades, even though quantitative data is limited. Recently, it was estimated that some 100 nesting sites are present in southern Italy, of which 71 are in Calabria. However, coordinated plans and actions to preserve loggerhead turtle populations through habitat restoration, proper management of beaches, fishing and by-catch impact reduction are currently missing.
OBJECTIVES
The main objectives of the project are to:
Conserve and restore four key loggerhead nesting areas in coastal habitats (dune series) identified by the studies conducted since 2000 by the Department of Ecology at the University Of Calabria; Eliminate and/or mitigate the main threats and risk factors for the reproductive success of the turtle in the area; Reduce the impact of fishing activities (by the Calabrian and Sicilian fishing fleets) on the populations of loggerhead turtle in the marine area off the nesting beaches; Introduce integrated dynamic coastal zone management for the protection of Natura 2000 habitats (dune series) and of loggerhead turtle habitats under high anthropogenic pressure; Produce guidelines for the management of coastal habitats; Ensure that the coastal municipalities adopt a shared Action Plan for the prompt implementation of conservation actions along the Ionian coast of Calabria; Disseminate best practices on the use of coastal areas where the turtle nests to local administrators and residents; and Update management plans for Natura 2000 sites in the project area. Expected results:
Restoration of the dune habitats in the four coastal sectors where loggerhead turtle nesting occurs. Improvement (up to 80%) of the composition and structure of dune vegetation and habitats. Increase of the beach area under protection against coastal erosion; A 50% reduction in the need for direct conservation actions in loggerhead turtle nesting areas (in-situ relocation, nest protection, etc.) and the consequent increase of their natural hatching success; Reduction of light pollution along the coast, enabling a 50% reduction in the use of shading fences for turtle conservation; Reduction of loggerhead sea turtle bycatch and a consequent decrease in the mortality of juveniles and adults (possible stabilisation/increase in the number of nesting females); Raised public awareness of the importance of the turtle’s conservation, including its economic value as a possible tourist attraction; Increased awareness amongst fishermen of sea turtle conservation issues and their relationship with the marine environment; and More information on the importance of correct beach and tourism management as opposed to unsustainable development.
