LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity TECHNICAL APPLICATION … · The project will be implemented in the...

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity TECHNICAL APPLICATION FORMS

Part A – administrative information

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- A1

LIFE+ 2009

FOR ADMINISTRATION USE ONLY

LIFE+ 09 NAT/

PROJECT

Project title (max. 120 characters):

CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF FRESHWATER WETLANDS IN SLOVENIA

Project acronym (max. 25 characters): WETMAN

The project will be implemented in the following:

Country(ies) SLOVENIA

Administrative region(s): SI01 – Vzhodna Slovenija (4 NUTS 3 regions), SI02 – Zahodna Slovenija (2

NUTS 3 regions)

Expected start date: 01/02/2011 Expected end date: 01/02/2015

BENEFICIARIES

Name of the coordinating beneficiary (1): Zavod Republike Slovenije za varstvo narave (ZRSVN)/Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation

Name of the associated beneficiary (2): Inštitut za vode Republike Slovenije (IZVRS)/Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia

Name of the associated beneficiary (3): Zavod za ribištvo Slovenije (ZZRS)/Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia

Name of the associated beneficiary (4): Zavod za gozdove Slovenije (ZGS)/State Forestry Service of Slovenia

Name of the associated beneficiary (5): Ob�ina Ruše (Ruše)/Ruše Municipality

Name of the associated beneficiary (6): Ob�ina Kranjska Gora (Kranjska Gora)/Kranjska Gora Municipality

Name of the associated beneficiary (7): Radio in televizija Slovenije (RTV)/ RTV Slovenia

PROJECT BUDGET AND REQUESTED EC FUNDING

Total project budget: 2.144.376 €

Total eligible project budget: 2.144.376 €

EC financial contribution requested: 1.072.188 € ( = 50 % of total eligible budget) PROJECT POLICY AREA

LIFE+ Nature: Best practice and/or demonstration project contributing to the implementation of the objectives of the EU Birds and Habitats Directives (Council Directives 79/409 EEC and 92/43/EEC)

�

LIFE+ Biodiversity: Demonstration and/or innovative project contributing to the objectives of the Commission Communication COM (2006) 216 final: "Halting the loss of Biodiversity by 2010 – and beyond"

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- A2 Coordinating Beneficiary Profile Information Short Name ZRSVN Beneficiary n° 1

Legal information on the Coordinating Beneficiary Legal Name Zavod Republike Slovenije za varstvo

narave (Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature conservation)

Legal Status

VAT No SI 53845285 Public body

Private commercial

Private non- commercial

X

Legal Registration No 1/35463/00

Registration Date 14.12.2001

Legal address of the Coordinating Beneficiary Street Name and No Dunajska cesta 22 PO Box N.A.

Post Code SI-1000 Town/City Ljubljana

Country Code SI Country Name Slovenia Coordinating Beneficiary contact person information Title Dr. Function counsellor

Surname Debeljak Šabec First Name Nika

E-mail address [email protected]

Department / Service Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Central unit

Street Name and No Dunajska cesta 22 PO Box N.A.

Post Code SI-1000 Town/City Ljubljana

Country Slovenia

Telephone No +386 1 23 09 500 Fax No +386 1 23 09 540 Coordinating Beneficiary details Year 2008

Annual turnover N.A. Annual Balance Sheet Total N.A.

Number of employees 68

Website www.zrsvn.si

Brief description of the Coordinating Beneficiary's activities and experience in the area of the proposal The Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation (hereinafter referred to as ZRSVN) was founded in 1999 according to the Nature Conservation Act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 56/99, No. 31/00, No. 119/02). It consists of seven regional units and a coordinating central unit. Together with regional units ZRSVN covers the entire territory of Slovenia. ZRSVN is a professional public organisation responsible for nature conservation with its main tasks/activities: – drawing-up of nature protection guidelines – drawing-up of special nature protection guidelines for management of Natura 2000 sites – issuance of nature protection consents – issuance of consents in procedure of environmental assessment – drawing-up of expert proposals for the protection of biodiversity components – drawing-up of expert proposals for Red lists – determination of the status of valuable natural features and their protection – monitoring of nature conservation status of biodiversity – monitoring of the status of valuable natural features – granting of consents in the procedure for obtaining a consent for legal transaction on the real-estate located in the

protected areas – drawing-up expert proposals for protected areas – participation in the drawing-up of management plans for protected areas – managing expert data on nature conservation – expert control of the implementation of nature protection tasks – promotion of public awareness of the importance of nature conservation ZRSVN is also carrying out duties of a national Scientific Authority for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in accordance with its articles.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- A5/1

ASSOCIATED BENEFICIARY PROFILE

Associated Beneficiary profile information

Short name IZVRS Beneficiary n° 2

Legal information on the Associated Beneficiary

Legal Name Inštitut za vode Republike Slovenije (Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia)

Legal Status

VAT No SI97072842 Public body

Private commercial

Private non-commercial

x

Legal Registration No 10010100


Legal address of the Coordinating Beneficiary Street Name and No Hajdrihova 28c PO Box N.A.

Post Code SI - 1000 Town/City Ljubljana

Country Code SI Country Name Slovenia

Brief description of the Associated Beneficiary's activities and experience in the area of the proposal

Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia (hereinafter referred to IzVRS) is a specialized professional organization for water resources management and freshwater and maritime engineering. It provides wide range of services from research work, studies, environmental and risk assessments, consulting up to final design. IzVRS has been founded in the early sixties, under the name Water Management Institute, with the transfer of activities on water management from Republic Water Board and Design bureau from Port of Koper and existing Hydraulic Laboratory, the later established in 1937. Three departments, Water Management Department and Department for Maritime Engineering and Hydraulic Laboratory have been set up. The Hydraulic Laboratory operates from January 1996 again as independent company. IzVRS disposes with modern office facilities in the part of Ljubljana where most Faculties and Institutes are situated. It is easy accessible by road and public transportation and offers sufficient parking space. Over 90% of employees are professionals with B.Sc degree and above with excellent or good knowledge of English, German or Italian language. IzVRS is equipped with modern computers, mostly PC and sophisticated software purchased or partly developed in collaboration of university institutes. Telephone / facsimile and Internet connections are provided. IzVRS has managed or participated in water management and other projects in many corners of the World such as Pakistan, Indonesia, India, New Zealand, Peru, Tunisia, Mauritania and others. IzVRS has good experience in participation of many European level environmental programs, such are ETC/IW of European Environmental Agency, PHARE and Interreg. Water Management Department elaborates water management and hydrological studies and legal regulations which serve Republic of Slovenia and its executive office Ministry for protection of Environment and regional planning for preparation and adaptation to EU regulations of respective legislation including surface and underground water protection and quality restoration and provides conceptual to final design of water supply and treatment, ameliorations, irrigations, accumulations, retentions, river regulations, floods and erosion protection, solid waste disposal and waste water treatment. All site hydrological measurements and biological measurements are available.




Short name ZZRS Beneficiary n° 3


Legal Name Zavod za ribištvo Slovenije

(Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia)

Legal Status

VAT No SI 83921419 Public body

Private commercial


x



Legal address of the Coordinating Beneficiary Street Name and No Župan�i�eva 9 PO Box N.A.




The Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia (ZZRS) was founded on April 19, 2001 by government decree of the transformation from Zavod za ribištvo Ljubljana, established by decree of the Executive Council of the Peoples Republic of Slovenia on December 31, 1960. According to the founding decree the spheres of activities of the ZZRS are very heterogeneous. ZZRS perform the most important tasks of the public service: - to keep the fishing cadastre by authority of Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food and - to issue the expert opinions with the reference to planning and building constructions connected with water ecosystem and channel regulations. The fishing cadastre contains data dealing with the fish fauna of Slovenian waters (sport fishing as well as the protected ones), some basic biological characteristics and data of their management. ZZRS is also authorized for: - managing some sport fishing and protected parts of streams and lakes in Slovenia, - exercise expert control over management of the fishing districts, - managing four fish farms for rearing autochthonous fish species for the repopulation of the sport fishing and protected areas of freshwater, - research and expert tasks in the field of freshwater and marine fishing, - biological and ichthyological investigations of the freshwater and sea, - monitoring of the water quality, - advising, education, publicizing and publishing in the fishery. The studies of the influence concerning pollution and water quality on fish populations, ichthyological studies of open waters and the protection of the natural heritage encompass a large part of the institute investigations. Intensive research on the technology of the breeding of particularly salmonoid fish species like marble trout, brown trout and lake trout, grayling and the huchen has been carried out since the founding of the institute. In recent years, the technology of the breeding pike and freshwater crayfish is also being studied as well as the breeding of the rainbow trout and the brook charr for the market.




Short name ZGS Beneficiary n° 4


Legal Name Zavod za gozdove Slovenije (Slovenia Forest Service)

Legal Status


Private commercial


x



Legal address of the Coordinating Beneficiary Street Name and No Ve�na pot 2 PO Box N.A.




The Slovenia Forest Service is a public institution, established by the Republic of Slovenia (The Act on Forests, 1993), which performs public forestry service in all Slovenian forests, irrespective of ownership. At state level it is organized with its central unit in Ljubljana, at regional level in 14 regional units, and at local level it has 93 local units and 408 forest districts. The Slovenia Forest Service also comprises 10 hunting reserves with a special purpose whose task is sustainable management of wild animals, protection of rare and endangered animal species and they also perform activities of hunting tourism. The Slovenia Forest Service employs 813 staff, of which 688 are forestry experts. The public forestry service is nearly entirely funded from the budget of the Republic of Slovenia whereas hunting reserves with a special purpose are mostly self-financed. It does not itself perform any felling, extraction, transport and selling of wood, nor forest trade. Main tasks and activities of the Slovenia Forest Service are: - Forest management planning - Silviculture and forest protection - Forestry technique - Wildlife and hunting - Public relations and education of forest owners - and other fields that consist of expert orientation in letting out work in state forests, supervising the realisation of work and accepting performed works by procuration of the Farmland and Forest Fund of the Republic of Slovenia.




Short name Ruše Beneficiary n° 5


Legal Name Ob�ina Ruše (Ruše Municipality) Legal Status

VAT No SI81314485

Public body

Private commercial


x



Legal address of the Coordinating Beneficiary Street Name and No Trg vstaje 11 PO Box N.A.

Post Code 2342 Town/City Ruše



The municipality of Ruše lies on the western part of the Slovenian region of Styria (Štajerska) between hills “Pohorje” and “Kozjak”, 13 km from Maribor. Ruše extends over 61 km2 and its average high is 309 m a.s.l. The highest peak of the municipality is “Žigartov vrh” (1347 m a.s.l.).The municipality borders on the north with Drava river and on the south with eastern part of Pohorje which consists of tonalit and other magma stones. According to the population statistics there are 7.501 inhabitants. Population concentrates in settlements and small villages. Most of the people live in Ruše town. Other settlements of the municipality are: Bezena, Bistrica ob dravi, Fala, Lobnica, Log and Smolnik. The main features of the municipality are the woods of Pohorje, partly wooden Drava riverside and gravel lowland by Drava river where grassland and fiels prevail and are connected with groups of trees. Clear and notable region characteristics derive from natural morphological units. Basic elements of biological diversity of the region are: harmony between wooden and non-wooden areas, trees and other growth in settlements, orchards, special trees and diversity of land structure. Owing to the natural capacities of the area the suitable land for farming lies on the sunny sides of slops. Northern, lower parts of the municipality consist of variety of agricultures and mixture between meadows and fields. Special characteristics to this area which opens to east are given by Drava river and its riverside vegetation.




Short name Kranjska Gora Beneficiary n° 6


Legal Name Ob�ina Kranjska Gora (Kranjska Gora Municipality)

Legal Status


Private commercial


x



Legal address of the Coordinating Beneficiary Street Name and No Kolodvorska 1 b PO Box N.A.

Post Code SI - 4280 Town/City Kranjska Gora



Kranjska Gora Municipality gained it's independence by separation from Jesenice Municipality in January the 1st 1995. It stands 256,3 km², which is 1,3% of total Slovenian surface. Average height above sea level is 1304 m. Kranjska Gora Municipality comprehends 16,5% of surface of Triglav national park. Kranjska Gora is both the municipal centre and the largest town in the Zgornjesavska valley as well as a famous year-round mountain tourist resort and an important, well-known winter sports resort. In Municipality area 10 settlements and 4 local communities, where around 5.250 residents live exist. Two economic activities are most expressed: hotel and catering industry, where almost 57% of all population is employed, and traffic, including cable railway, with 13% of employees. Small commercial companies, mostly in hotel and catering industry and in tourism business, are prevailing with 97%. Statistic analysis shows that in Kranjska Gora Municipality tourism and hotel/catering industry are prevailing. It has excellent opportunities to develop tourism, for which other economic activities (like trade, telecommunication, traffic, etc.) have to fulfil tourist offer in Kranjska Gora. In project area Zelenci threats to submerge the area and form a lake or to drainage it for agriculture purposes in 1980, was the main reason to start activities to protect Zelenci as protected area. Many expert work (inventarisation, mapping) have been done till 1992 when Municipality of Kranjska Gora declared the area as managed nature reserve. The arrangement plan was certified in 1996. It represents groundwork for establishing the visitor infrastructure on nature reserve.




Short name RTV Beneficiary n° 7


Legal Name RADIOTELEVIZIJA SLOVENIJA, javni zavod, Ljubljana (RTV Slovenia)

Legal Status


Private commercial


x



Legal address of the Coordinating Beneficiary Street Name and No Kolodvorska 2

PO Box N.A.




According to the Law (lex specialis) passed on 12 November 2005, Radio-television Slovenia is “a public institution of special cultural and national importance performing public service in the field of radio and television activities … with the intention of fulfilling democratic, social and cultural needs of the citizens of the Republic of Slovenia, Slovenians abroad, Slovenian national minorities in Italy, Austria and Hungary, Italian and Hungarian national communities in the Republic of Slovenia. The public service of RTV Slovenia has been established by the Republic of Slovenia. It is the duty of the founder to assure institutional autonomy and editorial independence of RTV Slovenia and provide adequate funding for the fulfilment of public service. According to the Law, public service of RTV Slovenia includes creation, preparation, archiving and broadcasting of: - two national TV channels - three national radio channels - radio and TV programmes in the regional centres in Koper and Maribor - one radio and TV channel for the Italian and Hungarian national community respectively - radio and TV programmes for the Romany community - radio and TV programmes for Slovenian national minorities in the neighbouring countries and Slovenian emigrants and workers abroad - radio and TV programmes for foreign audiences - teletext and an Internet and mobile portal. Article 4 of the Law specifies the frameworks, conditions and standards for programme preparation. The managing bodies of RTV Slovenia are the Programme Council and the Supervisory Board The Programme Council consists of 29 members.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- A7

OTHER PROPOSALS SUBMITTED FOR COMMUNITY FUNDING Please answer each of the following questions : • Have you or any of your associated beneficiaries already benefited from previous LIFE co-

financing? (please cite LIFE project reference number, title, year, amount of the co-financing, duration, name(s) of coordinating beneficiary and/or partners involved):

ZRSVN (as a coordinating beneficiary) has successfully finished LIFE III Nature project, reference number LIFE04NAT/SI/000240, Natura 2000 in Slovenia – Management Models and Information System, duration 1.1.2005-31.12.2007, amount of the co financing: EU 843.039 EUR (50%). Ministry for Environment and Spatial Planning: 550.338 EUR (32,6%), associated beneficiaries: Slovenia Forestry Service, Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia, Chamber of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Slovenia, Municipality of Šentjur, Local Community of Kapele, Notranjska museum Postojna, Ministero dell’ Ambiente e Tutela del Teritorio. We collaborate as associated beneficiary in following projects: - Conservation of Endangered Habitats/Species in the Future Karst Park, reference number

LIFE02NAT/SLO/008587, who’s coordinating beneficiary was University of Primorska. Its duration was since 1.10.2002 till 1.10.2005.

- Conservation of Endangered Species and Habitats in the Se�ovlje Salt – Pans Park, reference number LIFE03NAT/SLO/000076, which lasted from 1.9.2003 till 31.8.2006, whose coordinating beneficiary was SOLINE Pridelava soli, d.o.o.

- Conservation of Biodiversity of the Mura River in Slovenia (BIOMURA), reference number LIFE06NAT/SI/000066. It started in 1.10.2006 and will continue till 31.10.2011. The coordinating beneficiary is Water of the Republic of Slovenia (associated beneficiary in this project)

One of our associated beneficiaries Slovenia Forestry Service coordinated a project Conservation of Large Carnivores in Slovenia – Phase 1 (Ursus arctos), reference number LIFE02NAT/SLO/008585. Project lasted from 1.9.2002 and ended 31.8.2005. • Have you or any of the associated beneficiaries submitted any actions related directly or

indirectly to this project to other Community financial instruments? To whom? When and with what results?

No. • For those actions which fall within the eligibility criteria for financing through other

Community financial instruments, please explain in full detail why you consider that those actions nevertheless do not fall within the main scope of the instrument(s) in question and are therefore included in the current project.

This project, as a whole, present a demonstration and best practice for management of Natura 2000 freshwater wetland is Slovenia, targeting specifically conservation of species and habitats from Habitats and Birds directive. Project actions are specifically targeted at maintaining favourable conservation status of species and habitats form Habitats and Birds directive, therefore the LIFE + financial instrument is the only suitable funding for the project aims.

LIFE + Nature and Biodiversity TECHNICAL APPLICATION FORMS

Part B – technical summary and overall context of the project

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- B1 SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT (Max. 3 pages; to be completed in English) Project title: CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF FRESHWATER WETLANDS IN SLOVENIA Project objectives: In Slovenia, a lack of appropriate management of wetlands in the past led to wetland loss and degradation. In the last 50 years many wetland areas were hydro-meliorated, drainages were constructed, especially in agricultural land and in forests. Hydro-ameliorations were carried out in the belief that desiccation of land would intensify agriculture and forestry. Between 1973 and 1991 over 70,000 ha of lowlands were drained (National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity 1997, Maticic 1986 & 1993). In addition flood control schemes have canalised natural meandering streams or restricted naturally fast flowing waters. Agricultural intensification has been the main human factor causing wetland loss and degradation throughout Slovenia. Official statistical data show a decrease of almost 40% or 1,282 ha (Beltram 1996) in the land use/land cover category for ‘reed beds, marshes and ponds’ between 1950 and 1992 (Ramsar National Report, 1998). Additionally, industrial development, urbanisation, introduction of alien species and disturbance by expansion of tourism and recreation have negatively affected Slovenian wetlands. The aim of this project is to re-establish favourable conservation status of eight (two of them priority) targeted freshwater habitats and six habitats of targeted wetland species of Community importance, according to the Habitats Directive as well as two targeted species according to Birds Directive. Six project areas were selected: Pohorje, Zelenci, Vrhe, Planik, Gornji kal and Mura-Petišovci, which are covered by six SCIs and two SPAs. Project areas were selected on the basis of good representation of standing freshwater Slovenian wetland habitats and habitats of wetland species (excluding big open-water wetlands). An additional selection criteria was a lack of and/or inappropriate past management. Active raised bogs in Pohorje project area represent the most south-eastern distribution range of active raised bogs in the European Community and in the whole of Europe. In addition populations of Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) covered by project field actions in the Pohorje project area also represent the most southern populations in the Alpine region of European Union. The Mura river project area is one of the most important sites for oxbow lakes (HT 3150) and the following species of Community interest in Slovenia: fish Umbra krameri, amphibians Bombina bombina and Triturus cristatus, dragonfly Leucorrhinia pectoralis and pond turtle Emys orbicularis. Additional project areas were selected to cover habitats of the European pond turtle Emys orbicularis and the orchid Liparis loeselii, both in the need of active management. Estimation of the Favourable conservation status of targeted species and habitats for the European Union as well as in Slovenia, under the Article 17 of Habitats Directive (for period 2001 – 2006) are estimated as U2 (unfavourable – bad) for two of six targeted species (Emys orbicularis, Umbra krameri,) as well as five of eight targeted habitats (e.g. Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150), Active raised bogs (*HT 7110), Transition mires and quaking bogs (HT7140), Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (HT7150) and Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) (HT6410). In addition four targeted species (Liparis loeselli, Triturus carnifex, Bombina bombina, Leucorrhinia pectoralis) as well as additional two targeted habitats Alkaline fens (HT7230) and Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods (91D0*) are identified as U1 (unfavourable – inadequate). Future trend of the favourable conservation status of Active raised bogs, Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion, Alkaline fens in Europe is assessed as negative. This is an alarming fact.

The status of Leucorrhinia pectoralis in Slovenia is even worse and is estimated as U2 (unfavourable – bad). Urgent actions are needed to address these trends. The project field actions are targeted at re-establishing and/or revitalising favourable conservation status of small wetlands e.g. bogs, fens, wet meadows, small freshwater standing wetlands (Natural dystrophic and eutrophic lakes and oxbows - habitat and species) and bog forest. Project field actions will cover targeted habitats in the following percentages in regards to the total amount of the habitat covered by Natura 2000 in Slovenia: 99,6% of Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160), 89% of Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*), 47% of Active raised bogs (HT7110*), 30% of Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150) and 22,8% of Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (HT7150), 17,5% of Liparis loeselii. As a result of field actions the extent of targeted habitats and habitats of targeted species will be enlarged and/or the quality and structure of bogs, mires and oxbows will be restored or improved and biodiversity of project areas will be increased. Article 12 in the Decree of Special Protected Areas (Natura 2000 areas) in Slovenia and the Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals) states that management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia will be integrated into relevant sectoral management plans. In many cases, different sectors’ responsibilities meet in wetland areas and sectoral disagreements are not unusual. Consequently, responsibilities are shifted from one sector to another. This may lead to no management at all. In this project, an efficient way of inter-sectoral management of wetlands in Slovenia (by collaboration of different relevant public sectors) will be achieved, through the elaboration of “Conservation guidelines” for six project areas. “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be integrated into existing sectoral management plans and a Management plan of a Natura 2000 site before the end of the project. The established partnership among sectors will bring an added value to long term wetland management in Slovenia. An established joint integrated systematic approach for standing freshwater wetlands management will assure a long term favourable conservation status for wetland habitats and habitats of wetland species of Community importance in Slovenia. Actions and means involved: The current alarming status of targeted wetland habitats and species of Community importance in Slovenia is a result of unsustainable management of wetlands over the past 50 years. Project field actions will include: re-establishment and/or revitalisation of hydrological conditions at project areas, removal of overgrowth, removal of invasive species, prevention of future habitat destruction and disturbance of targeted species, as well as purchase of land. In addition “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated and incorporated into sectoral management plans or Management plans of the area, before the end of this project. Actions will assure a long term favourable conservation status of targeted wetland habitats and habitats of targeted species of Community importance in Slovenia. The field actions will be supported by actions aimed at raising awareness of the importance of wetlands and its species and habitats for both, Natura 2000 network as well as biodiversity In general. The campaign will target land owners, local communities, visitors, general public as well as state and local public authorities. Project aims are going to be achieved by means of active involvement of project partners as well as external assistance. Expected results (outputs and quantified achievements): Field actions will re-establish/revitalise favourable hydrological conditions at the following project areas: Pohorje bogs (Klopnovrška barja, Javorski vrh and Lovrenška barja), Zelenci, Vrhe, Gornji kal (ponds “Kriva�a” and “Kršeljevec”) and oxbows “Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša” at Mura Petišovci project area. Project areas: Klopnovrška barja” and “Javorski vrh” on Pohorje, Zelenci, Vrhe, Planik, Hrast pond on Gornji kal and oxbows “Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša” at Mura Petišovci project area will be cleared from overgrowth. The invasive fish species (Silurus glanis) will be fished out from the Hrast pond at Gornji kal project area and invasive fish

species (Ctenopharyngdon idella, Micropterus salmoides and Pseudorasbora parva) fished out from the oxbow lakes “Nagy parlag”, “Muriša”, and “Csiko Legelo” at Mura Petišovci project area. Destruction of habitats by direct damage on Pohorje project area will be reduced on active raised bogs (HT7110*), Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*), natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160), transition mires (HT7140), alkaline fens (7230), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150). The disturbance of targeted species (Tetrao tetrix, Tetrao urogallus and Emys orbicularis) will be reduced. In addition destruction of the bog habitats transition mires (7140) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150) will be significantly reduced in the Zelenci project area. As a result the extent of targeted habitats and habitats of targeted species are expected to be enlarged and/or quality and structure of bogs, mires, oxbows restored/improved as well as biodiversity of project areas increased. The most south-eastern distribution range of the habitat of Active raised bogs (HT7110*) in the European Community will be re-established/revitalised. Also the habitat of the most southern populations of Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) in the Alpine region of the European Community will be re-established/revitalised and the disturbance of these species reduced significantly. The Mura river project area, one of the most important sites for habitat type oxbow lakes (HT 3150) and species of Community interest in Slovenia: fish Umbra krameri, amphibians Bombina bombina and Triturus carnifex, dragonfly Leucorrhinia pectoralis and European pond turtle Emys orbicularis will be revitalised. Revitalised wetland habitats and habitats of wetland species will be less vulnerable to natural and human pressure and expected climate change. Re-established favourable conservation status of targeted habitats and habitats of targeted species on project areas will also assist the conservation of targeted habitats and habitats of targeted species of Community importance in the whole European community. “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be incorporated into sectoral plans (forestry, fishery, water) or Management plans of the area, which will be adopted before the project end. Incorporation of “Conservation guidelines” into sectoral management plans and/or Management plans of the area, will assure active ongoing management of project areas after the end of the project. Establishment of an integrated systematic approach for standing freshwater wetlands management in the Republic of Slovenia will have a demonstrative value for the conservation of favourable conservation status of other standing freshwater habitats and habitats of species of Community interest in Slovenia included in the Natura 2000 network. In addition, the community awareness about the importance of wetland, its species and habitats, Natura 2000 network and biodiversity will be increased for land owners, visitors, general public, local community, local and national authorities. Can the project be considered to be a climate change adaptation project? Yes x

No �

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- B2a/1

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE AREA / SITE(S) TARGETED BY THE PROJECT

Name of the project area: Pohorje bogs Surface area (ha): 2571,8 ha EU protection status: SPA � NATURA 2000 Code : SI5000006 SCI � NATURA 2000 Code : SI3000270 Other protection status according to national or regional legislation: The area is a Proposed Regional Park covering 9 forest reserves of 15 on the whole area of Pohorje Mt., 219 valuable natural features (hydrological, zoological, botanical, ecosystems, geomorphologic, geological and dendrological), 134 protected natural monuments. Main land uses and ownership status of the project area: Main land uses: forest (98%), other (2%). Bog areas ownership: private (14 %), state property (86 %). Scientific description of project area: Pohorje mountain range is an 840 km2 large complex, situated in the north-eastern part of Slovenia. It is considered as a part of the Alpine region. The area lies between cities of Dravograd, Maribor and Slovenske Konjice and is situated south from Drava/Drau river. The forests give a characteristic seal to the site, covering more than 70% of the area. It has the continental climate in the eastern part (mainly lower parts of the area), and the Atlantic climate in the western part. The annual precipitation is approximately 1400 to 1600 mm, with the major rainfall during summer and autumn. The geological grounding is formed by silicate stoneware, which results in markedly acid soils. The relief of the upper part of Pohorje (1600 -1200 m) is relatively smooth. Ridges are rounded and elongated. Peaks are stacked and their slopes are gentle, gradually rising over the ridges. Between the peaks there are broadly banded saddles and shallow depressions. Due to the impermeable ground, water frequently stagnates in shallow depressions, forming the characteristic peat-bogs with small lakes and bog woodland, at places surrounded by the Sphagnum spruce woods. From the altitude of approximately 1200 metres downwards, the relief changes into a dissected, rough and steep terrain. Numerous streams are flowing down the gutter-shaped ravines of the main ridge. There is a popular tourist resort called Rogla situated in the centre of Pohorje mountain range in the close vicinity of the bog areas. The tourist resort provides skiing, sledding, horse back riding and other opportunities for tourist together with the entire infrastructure. Pohorje bogs area is a very popular one day tourist destination with some already existing infrastructure for visitors (e.g. a wooden passages and an old tower at Lovrenška barja). The project area Pohorje bogs covers SCI and SPA Natura 2000 site Pohorje which is about a half of the whole Pohorje mountain range. There are 5 mayor bog areas in Pohorje, namely: “Ribniško barje” (9.3 ha), “Lovrenška barja” (89 ha), “Klopnovrška barja” (93.9 ha), the bog on “Javorski vrh” (2.4 ha) and “�rno jezero” with its surroundings (68.8 ha). They represent the largest serried bogs complexes in Slovenia. For the majority of bogs habitats and species, Pohorje represents the extreme south-eastern border of their distribution range in Europe. The major part of bogs is nowadays overgrown by bushes and trees which is a consequence of water dikes construction (for water-powered wood saws), and of other efforts aimed towards achieving stronger water outflows from these areas (e.g. runways used for logs transportation, desiccation of wastelands in the aim to intensify the agriculture). “Drainage” has changed the vegetation patterns and gave the possibility for bushes and trees to overgrow bogs.

Active raised bogs habitat (HT 7110) is one of the prevalent non-forest habitat type in the bogs area. Active raise bogs are commonly surrounded by Transition mires and quaking bogs (HT 7140), crossing to Bog woodlands (HT 91D0) and Acidophilous Picea forests (Vaccinio-Piceetea). In the shallow depressions between above mentioned non-forest habitats natural dystrophic lakes and ponds are formed (HT 3160). Capercaillie had appeared in Pohorje after intensive forest exploitation (clear cuts) which was followed by traditional agricultural/forest land uses, followed by a new afforestation. These actions provided suitable habitat for Capercaillie. In those times, the population reached its peak. From 1950 on the change in traditional land use management and an increase in uncontrolled human leisure activities (especially mass-hiking in the bogs area and uncontrolled frequent motorbikes traffic) caused a decline in the population size, due to the decline of a suitable habitat. The project Pohorje bogs area nevertheless still represents one of the most important habitats with the densest distribution of its active leks (7 to 10) for capercaillie in Slovenia. Forests of the upper regions of Pohorje are inhabited by a vital population of other bird species such as of pygm owl (Glaucidium passerinum), with 30 to 50 breeding pairs in the whole SPA, 10 to 20 individuals in the project area and Tengmalm’s owl (Aegolius funereus) with (30 to 70 breeding pairs in the whole SPA area, 20 to 40 individuals in the project area. Those species are listed in the Birds Directive as well in the Red list of threatened birds of Slovenia (Rules on the inclusion of endangered plant and animal species in the Red list, Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 82/02). Altogether 14 species of amphibians live in the Pohorje Natura 2000 site. Among Annex II species of the EU FFH Directive, populations of Bombina variegata and Triturus carnifex are present here together with other common species: Rana temporaria, Bufo bufo, Triturus alpestris and Triturus vulgaris. Among invertebrates of these peat bogs, mires and streams, some very rare, endangered and even endemic species have been recorded. Many fast flowing mountain streams are inhabited by the freshwater crayfish Austropotamobius torrentium which is listed as a priority species in Annex II of the EU FFH Directive. The dragonfly fauna is also very rich with strong populations of Aeshna juncea, Somatochlora arctica, Leucorrhinia dubia and Sympetrum danae, and rare butterfly species Vacciniina optilete with national nature conservation importance, listed in the Red list of threatened animals of Slovenia (Rules on the inclusion of endangered plant and animal species in the Red list, Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 82/02). The most representative plant species of active raised bogs are: Andromeda polifolia, Drosera rotundifolia, Eriophorum vaginatum, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Oxycoccus palustris, Oxycoccus microcarpus and several endemic Sphagnum species protected by Rules on the inclusion of endangered plant and animal species in the Red list, Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 82/02 are common here. Importance of the project area for biodiversity and/or for the conservation of the species / habitat types targeted at regional, national and EU level (give quantitative information if possible): For the majority of targeted bogs habitats, Pohorje represents the extreme south-eastern border of their distribution range in European Union and in Europe as the whole. In addition it also represents the south-eastern border of the distribution range of Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) in the Alpine region of European Union. Pohorje bogs also represent the largest serried bogs complexes in Slovenia and are one of the most important sites for woodland grouse species, namely Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) in Slovenia. Pohorje represents their reproduction, breading and feeding habitat. The black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) population is most probably of a secondary origin. The numerical estimation of black grouse population on Pohorje is 15 to 20 pairs (5 leks), which live in the total breeding area (within the SPA) of 600-800 hectares, while there is 10 to 15 pairs (3 confirmed leks) in the Pohorje bogs project area alone.

Field actions on Pohorje bogs project area will cover in total the targeted habitats in following percentage in regards to the total amount of the habitat covers by Natura 2000 in Slovenia: 99,6% natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160), 89% of Bog forest–Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0) and 47,8% active raised bogs (HT7110*). Field action C1.1. (filling up of water dikes constructed in the past) is directly aiming at re-establishing hydrology conditions in “Klopnovrška barja”, ”Javorski vrh” and “Lovrenška barja” (all together at least 90ha). This action is targeted at conservation of habitats: active Bog forest–Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0), active raised bogs (HT7110), natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160) and transition mires (HT7140). There is a reasonable expectation for the re-establishment of bog vegetation with peat-forming capacity within 20 years. Overgrowth removal (C.2.1.) will be carried out on at least 10ha of bogs in “Klopnovrška barja” and “Javorjev vrh” and will target conservation of active raised bogs (HT 7110), transition mires (HT 7140) as well as woodland grouse species (Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus). Increased uncontrolled human leisure activities (mass-hiking in the bogs area and uncontrolled frequent motorbike traffic) represent a serious threat for active raised bogs (HT7110), transition mires and quaking bogs (HT7140), bog forest (Sphagnum spruce woods HT 91D0) and natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160). With the tramping of the habitat they are directly destroying it. The human presence also causes disturbance of woodland grouse species (Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus). Field actions (C.4.) will limit the destruction of the targeted habitat and disturbance of targeted species in the “Lovrenška barja”, “Ribniško barje”, “�rno jezero” and Zelenci. As a result flowing habitats are expected to be enlarged on Pohorje bogs project area: active raised bogs (HT7110*) (1,1ha), Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*) (0,5ha), natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160) (2,4ha), transition mires (HT7140) (0,3ha) as well as habitat of targeted Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and Capercailie (Tetrao urogallus) (4,3ha; remote influence on 50ha). Low public awareness of visitor about the importance of the bog habitats and their vulnerability is leading to the uncontrolled leisure activities. There is currently no info canter on Pohorje area. To provide visitors with the information about the importance of Pohorje wetland, their habitats and species as well as Natura 2000 network, one info-room at Šumik lodge (as nature protection interpretation facilities) will be equipped (D.5.). A need for the construction of the visitors’ management infrastructure and establishment of info-room on Pohorje Natura 2000 site is stated in the annex 4.6., Group 2. of the Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals). Other D Actions are aiming at raising public awareness of visiting tourist, local communities, local and national authorities as well as general public of the Pohorje bog area nature conservation importance. Guidelines for appropriate long term management of Pohorje bogs area are urgently needed to assure the favourable conservation status of Natura 2000 habitats and species in question. “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated with the collaboration of different public sectors (A.1.) and will be incorporated into relevant sectoral pans (six corresponding Forestry management plans and its Sylviculture management plans) before the end of this project (C.5.). This will assure management of Pohorje bogs also after the project end. Map of the Pohorje bogs project’s area planned actions is enclosed in ANEX_I_WETMAN_MAPS (Map 1)

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- B2b/1

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- B2c/1

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIES / HABITATS / BIODIVERSITY ISSUES TARGETED BY THE PROJECT

Priority Code Name % Comments (conservation status, etc.)

DIRECTLY TARGETED HABITATS DIRECTIVE ANNEX I HABITATS

* 91D0 Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods 6,4 Sphagnum spruce woods are mostly in favourable condition and are spreading to the bogs habitats – 7110 and 7140. The succession is moving because of the inappropriate forestry practice in the past (water dikes-hydrology changes).

* 7110 Active raised bogs 0,5 Sphagno-Mugetum community is getting overgrown by Pinus mugo and Norway spruce species. The succession is rapidly moving because of the inappropriate forestry practice in the past (water dikes-hydrology changes). The status is unfavourable (C).

3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds 0,1 Habitat is present in “Lovrenška barja”, “Ribniška barja” and �rno jezero”. Habitats are in un-favourable condition because of the human visitors preasure (eutrofication) and because of the inappropriate forestry practice in the past (water dikes-hydrology changes).

7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs 1,0 Habitat is getting overgrown by Pinus mugo and Norway spruce species. The succession is rapidly moving because of the inappropriate forestry practice in the past (water dikes-hydrology changes). The status is unfavourable (C).

SCIENTIFIC POPULATION SIZE FOR THE SITE (quantitative estimates) Priority NAME RESIDENT MIGRATORY

(IN LATIN) BREEDING WINTERING STAGING

DIRECTLY TARGETED ANNEX I SPECIES OF THE BIRDS DIRECTIVE

Tetrao tetrix 10-15 (3 leks)

Tetrao urogallus 7-10 (leks)

Comments (Conservation status at project area): Because of the inappropriate forestry practice the reduction of capercaillie and black grouse habitat is changing, also the disturbances in the mating and nesting season are more and more present. Both species are in all Pohorje Natura 2000 site in unfavourable status (C) so the same is within core zone of their habitat at Pohorje bogs project area.



Name of the project area: Zelenci Surface area (ha): 54,6 ha EU protection status: SCI � NATURA 2000 Code : SI3000087 Other protection status according to national or regional legislation: The project area is also a Nature reserve, valuable natural feature (hydrological, zoological, botanical, ecosystem,) and an ecologically important area. Main land uses and ownership status of the project area: Main land uses: forested land (31%), permanent meadows (30%), reeds (17%), marsh land and meadows (10%), trees and undergrowth (5%), water (4%), settlements and related uses (2%), the remaining land (1%) Ownership: private (32 %), state property (68 %) Scientific description of project area: Zelenci project area covers the spring of river Sava Dolinka near Kranjska Gora together with its surrounding mire area. It lies in the valley, between mountain ranges Karavanke and Julian Alps. In the last glacial period, the glacier stretched from Planica valley in the Julian Alps until Zelenci. Terminal moraines can be found at the very foothills of Karavanke mountain range. The water flowing down from Planica valley was bringing along great quantities of material which was deposited in lower areas. This led to the formation of large alluvial cone reaching as far as the frontal moraine of the former glacier. The Sava river appears as the Nadiža fall in Planica valley. Its water soon disappears in the alluvium. Reaching the lowest level, it breaks through morainic mounds and reappears on the surface. This is known as the source of the Sava Dolinka river. It emerges at numerous points over the moraine and finally gathers at Zelenci which is the remaining part of what used to be a much larger lake in the past. From the botanical point of view, the most important area is a transition mire (7140) called Drni. The peat moss (Sphagnum contortum) and other moss are characteristic mires’ plants species are present here: (Drosera rotundifolia, D. anglica, Oxycoccus palustris, Trichophorum alpinum), Andromeda palustris, Menyanthes trifoliata etc. Drni is surrounded by standing water, depressions on peat substrate of the Rynchosporion (7150) and alkaline fens (7230) which are overgrown by Carex rostrata. Many important plants are present in the area, e.g. Pedicularis palustris, Comarum palustre, Molinia caerula, Rynchospora alba, Carex lasiocarpa, C. limosa, Cladium mariscus. Eight habitats have been determined at Zelenci, for some Zelenci is the only location in Slovenia. Zelenci therefore represents one of the most important wetlands in the north-western (Alpine) part of Slovenia. Zelenci is surrounded with high mountains on one, and with agricultural land on the other side. Mountain streams flowing into Zelenci area are bringing along large quantities of gravel. The Sava river in the Zelenci project area used to have two riverbed branches, of which one is filled up and dried up now, so the area’s water characteristics are changed significantly. Gravel accumulation in addition with eutrophication from the surrounding agricultural land is causing a fast natural succession (bushes and trees overgrowing) of the project area. Succession is additionally accelerated by some harmful projects done in the past, such as road construction and waste disposal.

Zelenci is a very popular tourist destination due to its closeness to Kranjska Gora, the most popular tourist resort in the north-western Slovenia. The major road towards Kranjska Gora passes Natura 2000 site Zelenci on its northern border. The site is already equipped with a footpath and an old watching tower. Importance of the project area for biodiversity and/or for the conservation of the species / habitat types targeted at regional, national and EU level (give quantitative information if possible): Zelenci represents one of the most important wetlands in the north-western (Alpine) part of Slovenia and represent one of four mayor bog areas in the entire Slovenia (other three being Pohorje also a project area in this project, Pokljuka which was already a project area in LIFE00NAT/SLO/7231 and Jelovica, which was already a project area in LIFE04NAT/SI/000240). The filed actions are targeted at conservation of three Annex I habitats namely alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150). Field action (C.1.2.) is directly aiming at improvement of hydrological conditions of the Zelenci project area with the restoration of hydrological conditions in dried up river tributary (3,5ha) and in addition prevention of further gravel accumulation over the project area (C.1.2.). To carry out these urgent actions a small block of land will be purchased (B.1.). Overgrowth will be removed over the area of at least 4ha (C.2.2) and destruction of habitats caused by uncontrolled human activities will be limited (C.4.2.). As a consequence the extent of bog habitats is expected to increase and/or the quality of the habitat is expected to be improved: transition mires (7140) (at least 3,5ha) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150) (at least 3ha). The biodiversity of the area will increase. “Conservation guidelines” for appropriate long term management of the Zelenci project area will be drown up with the collaboration of different public sectors (A.1.). They will be incorporated into the Management plan for Zelenci area, which will be approved by the competent authority the Municipality of Kranjska Gora before the project end (C.5.). Active management of the Zelenci project will thus be assured also after the project end. Low public awareness of visitor about the importance of the bog habitats and their vulnerability is leading to the uncontrolled leisure activities. Actions D are aiming at raising awareness of the Natura site, it’s species and habitats, and their vulnerability. The campaign will target local communities, visitors, general public and representatives of the Nordic Centre Planica. Map of the Zelenci project’s area planned actions is enclosed in ANEX_I_WETMAN_MAPS (Map 2)



Priority Code Name % Comments (conservation status,etc.)


7230 Alkaline fens 30% The status of habitat types is rapidly worsening, especially on Transition mires and alkaline fens and is unfavourable (C) due to the changed hydrology state of the Natura 2000 site.

7140 Transition mires 25% The status of habitat types is rapidly worsening, especially on Transition mires and alkaline fens and is unfavourable (C) due to the changed hydrology state of the Natura 2000 site.

7150 Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion

10% The status of habitat type is changing slowly and it is near unfavourable (B/C) due to the changed hydrology state of the Natura 2000 site.



Name of the project area: Vrhe Surface area (ha): 6,3 ha EU protection status: SCI � NATURA 2000 Code : SI3000281 Other protection status according to national or regional legislation: Valuable natural feature (ecosystem) Main land uses and ownership status of the project area: Main land uses: forest (100%) Ownership: fen area and Liparis loeselii habitat are privately owned (100%). Scientific description of project area: The Vrhe is one of the most preserved wetland areas in the Koroška (Carinthia) region of Slovenia. Two almost isolated alkaline fens represent a unique phenomenon for this region. Due to specific water regime (high ground water) the forest vegetation has not overgrown the area. Habitats of very rare plant species have evolved on the two “glades”. The area is covered by an alkaline fen (7230) which is the habitat of a rare orchid Liparis loeselii and other following rare plant species Epipactis palustris, Carex davalliana, Gymnadenia conopsea and Pinguicula alpina. A forest skidding track was built in 1990s which disrupted the unique water regime in Vrhe area. The forest skidding track channel crosses the slope above the bogs area and carries the water away. The hydrology conditions of the area have changed markedly. The Vrhe bog area is now not getting enough water and is becoming drier with the bushes overgrowth already in progress. The conservation status of Liparis loeselii habitat and alkaline fens habitat is declining. Most of the area (92,76%; parcel No. 25, 26, 33, 34, 35 of cadastral unit Slovenj Gradec) is privately owned. Only a minimal part (7,24% which is the access road) is a public property. The area, e.g. parcel numbers 25, 26, 33, 34, 35 are co-owned by two owners. Initial oral agreement was obtained prior to submission of the proposal in addition we managed to obtain written support form these owners. Importance of the project area for biodiversity and/or for the conservation of the species / habitat types targeted at regional, national and EU level (give quantitative information if possible): Project area Vrhe represents one of eight Natura 2000 sites assigned at conservation of Liparis loeselii in Slovenia (one site Rašica/Planik also included in this project). In addition it is one of the most preserved wetland areas in the Koroška (Carinthia) region of Slovenia. The whole area is covered by Alkaline fens (HT7230), a habitat of targeted species Liparis loeselii. One of the project results will be a demonstration of the best practices for management of a habitat of Liparis loeselii. The project actions are aiming at restoring the past conditions of the area. The revitalisation of the water regime (1ha) (which was changed by forest exploitation) will be carried out by building two water outflows from the forest skidding track channel (C.1.3).

A part of the overgrowth (at least 1 ha) will be removed to restore the habitat of Liparis loeselii and alkaline fen (7230) habitat (C.2.3.). Due to past unsustainable management “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated with collaboration of different public sectors (A.1.). A Nature conservation contract will be prepared and signed within the project duration by the responsible authority Ministry of the Republic of Slovenia of Environment and Spatial planning (C.5.). The necessity to sign a nature conservation contract for this site was established under Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia, (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals), Annex 4.2.. This will assure management of the project area also after the project end. Actions D. are aiming at raising awareness of the Natura 2000 site and its species and habitats importance. The campaign will target land owners, local community, visitors and general public. Map of the Vrhe project’s area planned actions is enclosed in ANEX_I_WETMAN_MAPS (Map 3)



Priority Code Name % Comments (conservation status,etc.)


7230 Alkaline fens 100 *

DIRECTLY TARGETED HABITATS DIRECTIVE ANNEX II SPECIES

G Priority SCIENTIFIC NAME (IN LATIN)

POPULATION SIZE FOR THE SITE (quantitive estimates)

RESIDENT

MIGRATORY

BREEDING WINTERING STAGING

P Liparis loeselii 2-15 % of Slovenian population

*Comments (Conservation status at project area): Because of the inappropriate forestry practice the reduction of alkaline fens and Liparis loeselii habitat (hydrology changes, overgrowth) is happening and the status of fen orchid and alkaline fens is unfavourable (C and D).



Name of the project area: Planik Surface area (ha): 19,0 ha EU protection status: SCI � NATURA 2000 Code : SI3000275 Other protection status according to national or regional legislation: The project area is also an Ecological important area of the national importance and Natural heritages (hydrologic, geomorphologic and botanic) Main land uses and ownership status of the project area: Main land uses: Forest (71%), permanent meadows (29%) Ownership: 100% private. Scientific description of project area: The project area is a marshy valley called Planik, located in the south-western part of the Mengeško polje, on the foothills of Dobeno. Planik is a part of Natura 2000 site called Rašica. Planik is also a source for the water of Ru�igajev studenec. The project area is 310 to 350 m above the sea level. The geological grounding is mostly clay and clay pebbles. There is forest all around the area. The majority of the project area is covered by Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) (HT6410), and alkaline fens with Carex davalliana, both habitats of Liparis loeselii. The southern part of the project area is intersected by a power line. During the Natura 2000 sites designation, the scientific inventory of this area was carried out for butterflies, and some plants and habitats of Community interest. Three Lepidopterea species from the Annex II of the Habitats Directive were found, namely Euphydryas aurinia, Callimorpha quadripunctaria and Lycaena dispar. Besides Liparis loeselii Drosera anglica was found in the area. Since there is no active management of the site the meadows and fens (habitat of Liparis loeselii) are currently being overgrown by Frangula alnus and Alnus glutinosa and the habitat of Liparis loeselii is being lost. The whole area of the habitat of Liparis loeselii is privately owned. Ownership of Parcel No. 584, 586, 587, 588, 589, 590, 591, 592, 593, 594, of cadastral unit Loka, is split among 16 owners. In autumn 2008 (prior to submitting the proposal) all of them were contacted and the content of the project was communicated to them. 15 of them agreed with the project and supported the project; only one owner did not support the project. Importance of the project area for biodiversity and/or for the conservation of the species / habitat types targeted at regional, national and EU level (give quantitative information if possible): Planik is one of the most important sites for the conservation of Liparis loeselii in Slovenia and represents one of eight Natura 2000 sites assigned at conservation of Liparis loeselii in Slovenia (another site Vrhe also included in this project). The Planik project area covers 9,8%

of the habitats of Liparis loeselii in regards to the total amount of the habitat Liparis loeselii covered by Natura 2000 in Slovenia. Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) (HT 6410) and fens (both habitats of Liparis loeselii) are being overgrown by trees and shrubs. A habitat for Liparis loeselii will be restored by overgrowth removed (C.2.3.) over the area of at least 1ha. The project result will also be a demonstration of the best practices for management of Molinia meadows and fens as habitats of Liparis loeselii. “Conservation guidelines” for appropriate long term management of the area will be drown up with the collaboration of different public sectors to assure the favourable conservation status of Natura 2000 species and habitats (A.1.). If appropriate Agro-Environmental contracts proof to be insufficient the Nature conservation contracts will be prepared and approved by the competent authority Ministry of the Republic of Slovenia of Environment and Spatial planning by the end of this project (C.5.). This will assure management of the project area also after the project end. Actions D. are aiming at raising awareness of the Natura site and its species and habitats importance. The campaign will target land owners, local communities, visitors and general public. Map of the Planik project’s area planned actions is enclosed in ANEX_I_WETMAN_MAPS (Map 4)






RESIDENT

MIGRATORY


P Liparis loeselii 2-15 % of Slovenian population

Comments: Conservation status at project area (part of the Rašica Natura 2000 site) Because of the reduction of Liparis loeselii habitat (overgrowth) and inappropriate agriculture practice the status of fen orchid is unfavourable (C).



Name of the project area: Gornji kal Surface area (ha): 18,7 ha EU protection status: SCI � NATURA 2000 Code : SI3000073 Other protection status according to national or regional legislation: Project area Gornji kal captures three ponds (Hrast, Kriva�a and Kršeljevec). All three project area ponds are parts of an ecologically important area, additionally ponds Kriva�a and Hrast have valuable natural feature status. Main land uses and ownership status of the project area: Main land uses: Permanent meadows are prevailing (44% of the project area), followed by forest (30%). Arable land and gardens take 17%, while water bodies represent approximately 5%. Other in project area takes 4%. Ownership: Ponds’ land is a property of the municipality of �rnomelj (100%) while the surrounding land is privately owned. Scientific description of project area: The Natura 2000 site “Gornji kal” lays in the south part of Bela krajina, the most southern Slovenian province. Its average height is 220 metres above the sea level. It is a part of a typical shallow karst region, a characteristically rolling surface with small hills and shallow valleys. Ponds were formed due to the impermeable ground clay layer and are very rare in this region. The settlements are typical centred villages, predominantly surrounded by meadows, orchards, and fields. There are three ponds in the project site Gornji kal: Kriva�a (0.12 ha), Hrast (1.2 ha), and Kršeljevec (0.6 ha). The Hrast pond is the most important pond as far as the nature conservation is concerned. It is located at the end of the Hrast village near Vinica. In the south it is separated from the village by the main road, in the north the pond borders on a broad-leaved forest. Most of the ponds bank (70%) is cleaned and adjusted for fishing; a part of it (30 %) is overgrown with willow and reeds shrubbery. To make angling easier and more attractive, the local fishery association introduced a fish species (Wels catfish) which grow fast and large. Consequently, the natural biocenosis in the pond has changed. Due to competition among the invasive and the autochthonous species (over food and habitat) the negative impact can be observed for all autochthonous species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. The Kriva�a pond lies in the bottom of a depression. A few years ago, a part of the pond was restored (30 metres x 25 metres), while a part of it was filled up with soil. It lies near the village Perudina, at the forest edge. The pond hasn’t been in use for many years. A layer of clay on the bottom was destroyed by the local community which was unsuccessfully trying to revitalise the pond. Unfortunately, the pond ended up dry. Local inhabitants then used the pond for depositing land material as rocks and soil. Shrubs and trees are growing over the whole pond area. Both active ponds, Hrast and Kriva�a, are important breeding places for the targeted species of European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) as well as for other populations of amphibians: rare greater spearwort (Ranunculus lingua) which is ranked in the Red list of threatened plants of Slovenia (Rules on the inclusion of endangered plant and animal species in the Red list, Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 82/02). Importance of the project area for biodiversity and/or for the conservation of the species / habitat types targeted at regional, national and EU level (give quantitative information if possible):

The Natura 2000 site “Gornji kal” is the most important site for the targeted species of European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), especially in the region of “Bela krajina”. On of project results will be a demonstration of the best practices management and conservation of ponds as a habitats of Emys orbicularis. Gornji kal ponds and their surroundings provide both the living and the nesting habitats for the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis). Main threats for the survival of this unique freshwater turtle are: a lack of proper water management, inappropriate fishery practices (including the introduction of Wels catfish Silurus glanis), the eutrophication of ponds, lack of awareness of locals and visitors about the importance wetland, its species and habitat and their vulnerability. Field actions are aimed at revitalization of all three ponds covered by project area Gorni kal. The aim is to assure a suitable habitat for the Emys orbicularis turtle. In the Hrast pond the Wels catfish will be fished out with the help from the local fishermen and the Fisheries Research Institute (C.3.1.). In addition bushes overgrowth will be cleaned away over the area of 0,4ha (C.2.4.) and nesting places for turtles will be created (C.2.4.). The Kriva�a pond will be restored and deepened (0,12ha) (C.1.4.). The Kršeljevec pond will be revitalised to its original state (0,6ha) (C.1.4.). Sediments will be dug out and the layer of clay will be renewed. Nesting places for turtles will be constructed. The activities will be carried out together with the local community, the fishery sector, and the waters management services. In order to carry out active fishing in the ponds the Local fishery association needs to acquire a Concession for fishery management for the pond area. “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated (A.1.) and included into the Fishery unit management plans, which will regulate future fishery practices in ponds (C.5.). The “Conservation guidelines” will serve as main groundwork also for the preparation of the Concession for fishery management with local fishing associations. With the incorporation of “Conservation guidelines” into Fishery unit management plans a long term management of the area (including regulation of fishery activities) will thus be assured also after the project end. Actions D, the awareness raising actions of the biodiversity importance of the area, Natura 2000 species and habitats, will be taking place through the duration of the project. They will target land owners, local community, visitors and especially fishermen. Info-boards will be placed along an existing trail which bears the name of a Slovenian poet, Oton Zupan�i�, and is linked to the geological trail which leads to a bauxite deposit. Map of the Gornji kal project’s area planned actions is enclosed in ANEX_I_WETMAN_MAPS (Map 5)






RESIDENT

MIGRATORY


R Emys orbicularis <2% of Slovenian

population* Comments: Conservation status at project area: Because of the reduction of ponds area (hydrology changes and overgrowth), invasive fish species, inappropriate fishing practices and eutrophication of the Hrast pond from the road, the status of pond turtle is unfavourable (C).



Name of the project area: Mura Petišovci Surface area (ha): 1768,9 ha EU protection status: SPA � NATURA 2000 Code : SI5000010 SCI � NATURA 2000 Code : SI3000215 Other protection status according to national or regional legislation: The project are is proposed as a Mura regional park and as an international Biosphere reserve Drava – Mura. It covers 64 valuable natural features and the ecologically important area. Main land uses and ownership status of the project area: Main land uses: forest (43%), permanent meadows (26%), fields and temporary meadows (17%), marsh and waters (10%), other (4%) Ownership: public 73%, private 27% Scientific description of project area: Mura is a left tributary of the Drava river. It has a nival water regime with characteristic seasonal flooding. After 1965, 70km of protective dikes from Dokležovje to Benice were built, leaving a larger part of natural Mura wetlands with no high waters. These areas are becoming drier and overgrown by bushes and trees. Mura’s riverbed is mostly regulated down to Veržej, while from Veržej on the natural river dynamics is still preserved. A chain of hydroelectric power stations was built in the Austrian (upper) part of the river. As a consequence, the carrying power of the water course is diminished, causing a reduction in new gravel delivery. As a result the existing oxbow lakes are diminishing while new ones are not being formed. In the lower part, where the riverbed is not regulated, Mura has a very broad flow, it makes numerous secondary branches, many oxbow lakes are preserved and many of them are beyond the high-water dikes. Three pilot oxbow lakes “Nagy Parlag” (10ha), “Muriša” (17,4ha) and “Csiko Legelo” (6,8ha) have been chosen to be dealt with in the frame of the project, all of them facing similar threats and negative impacts. The Mura river is one of the most important sites for following species of Community interest in Slovenia: fish Umbra krameri, amphibians Bombina bombina and Triturus carnifex, dragonfly Leucorrhinia pectoralis, European pond turtle Emys orbicularis and habitat type oxbow lakes (HT 3150). Other rare or endangered species and wetland habitats were recorded for this area: 600 vegetal species, 200 bird species (of which 110 are nesting birds), 30 mammal species, 15 amphibian species, 10 reptile species, 45 fish species, 50 dragonfly species, more then 1200 beetle species (of which approximately 100 are water beetle species), 1200 butterfly species, 95 snail species and shells. All those species are included in different national and international red lists. Some plant species: Salvinia natans, Stratiotes aloides and a dragonfly Aeshna viridis are present in Slovenia only in the Mura river. Many protected species of butterflies Maculinea nausithous, Maculinea teleius, Lycaena dispar, Parnasius mnemosine and others can be found on the Mura wet meadows. In addition many protected forest habitats are preserved in this area, such as Erythronio-Carpinion, Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae). Importance of the project area for biodiversity and/or for the conservation of the species / habitat types targeted at regional, national and EU level (give quantitative information if possible):

The Mura river area is one of the most important areas in Slovenia as far as biodiversity and nature conservation is concerned. It is one of two Natura 2000 site assigned for the targeted fish species Umbra krameri in Slovenia. In addition it is one of the most important sites for following species of Community interest: Bombina bombina, Triturus carnifex, Leucorrhinia pectoralis and Emys orbicularis. Field actions at Mura project area will cover 52% of the habitat of Umbra krameri as well as 30% of Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150) in regards to the total amount of the habitat covered by Natura 2000 in Slovenia. Due to many Mura river regulations which took place in the past hydrology of the area has been changed significantly causing a fast natural succession of oxbow, while the formation of new oxbow lakes is very poor. Fishery has a significant negative influence on the oxbow lakes status. Due to invasive fish introduction into oxbows (mass entering of invasive species such as Grass Carp, Sunfish and Pseudorazbora), the oxbow lakes biocenosis has been changed significantly. The negative impact can be observed for all autochthonous species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates, due to competition (over food and habitat) among the invasive and the autochthonous species. Constant disturbance caused by fishermen and illegal (mainly wooden) constructions on the river banks and in the river, have negative impacts as well. Inappropriate agricultural practices on meadows near the oxbow lakes are causing eutrophication of the oxbows which is additionally accelerated by soil and waste deposition into oxbows. Many inappropriate activities could have been prevented if the nature protection public awareness was stronger. The main goal of this project on the Mura area is to revitalise all three oxbow lakes (“Nagy Parlag”, “Muriša” and “Csiko Legelo”), with a clear intention to conserve the following target species: Umbra krameri, Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex and Bombina bombina and the targeted habitat Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150). Field action will include re-establishment of hydrological conditions of two oxbow lakes (“Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša”) (in total 27,4ha) (C.1.5.), the removal of foreign fish species in all three project oxbows (“Nagy Parlag”, “Muriša” and “Csiko Legelo”) (in total 35,2ha) (C.3.2.), the removal of bushes and trees overgrowth at two oxbow lakes (“Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša”) (in total 4ha) (C.2.5.). As a result the extent of targeted habitats and habitats of targeted species is expected to be enlarged and/or quality and structure of oxbows restored/improved and biodiversity of project area increased. We aim to eliminate or minimize other existing threats (eutrophication, low level of awareness fishermen, farmers and inspectors) by actions D. A “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated (A.1.) and incorporated into Fishery unit management plan as well as used as be used as a ground work for the development of the Detailed water management of wider Mura river plan according to the Water act and the Water Framework Directive (C.5.). Appropriate fishery practices will be proposed and permanent locations for fishermen stands will be determined (A.1.). With the incorporation “Conservation guidelines” into Fishery unit management plans a long term management of the area (including regulation of fishery activities) will thus be assured also after the project end. One of the project results will also be a demonstration of the best practices for management of oxbow lakes as habitats of Umbra krameri, Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex and Bombina bombina together with fishery sector, the local community, the water management service, and NGOs. Added value of the inter-sectoral cooperation aimed towards applying an efficient way of management a wetlands area will be demonstrated. Through the course of the project, the awareness raise on the biodiversity importance of the area, targeted to the local community, local fishermen and local farmers, foresters and inspectors will be taking place. Map of the Mura Petišovci project’s area planned actions is enclosed in ANEX_I_WETMAN_MAPS (Map 6)



Priority Code Name % Comments (Conservation status,etc.)


3150 Natural eutrophic lakes 95% Habitat is targeted in three selected project oxbows areas. All of them are overgrown with bushes and trees. Two of them are filled with building and other garbage materials. In all three oxbows are also invasive fish species present. In this three oxbows the HT 3150 is in unfavourable conservation status (D)




RESIDENT

MIGRATORY


F Umbra krameri

90% of Slovenian population 10% of European population

I Leucorrhinia pectoralis

2-15% of Slovenian population

R Emys orbicularis


A Triturus carnifex


A Bombina bombina 70% of Slovenian population

Comments: Conservation status at project area (part of the all Natura 2000 area): Because of the habitat reduction of lakes (hydrology changes and overgrowth), and invasive fish species the status of all targeted species is unfavourable (C).

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- B2d

CONSERVATION / BIODIVERSITY PROBLEMS AND THREATS

Threat 1: Name of threat: Inappropriate interventions into water regimes in the past Description: Wetland areas were often hydro-meliorated, drainages were constructed, especially in agricultural land and in forests. Hydro-ameliorations were carried out in the belief that desiccation of land would intensify agriculture and forestry. It turned out that due to faster trees and bushes overgrowth spreading from nearby meadows, cultivation of bogs and oxbow lakes was hard and land was consequently abandonment. On the other hand unsustainable water management (a lack of and/or an inappropriate management) lead to filling of the wetlands, causing a destruction of bog habitats due to changes in water regime. These wetlands are undergoing fast vegetative succession and are being overgrown by reeds and other shrub, followed by spruce and other tree. Filed actions are aiming at revitalisation of past hydrological conisations of the project areas to assure favourable conservation for targeted species and habitats of Community interest. The restored hydrological conditions will also limit the threat of future overgrowth. Location: Pohorje bogs, Zelenci, Vrhe, Gornji kal, Mura Petišovci; Impact on habitat/species: Pohorje: Active Bog forest–Sphagnum spruce woods (91D0), raised bogs (7110), neutral dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160) and transition mires (7140) are diminishing as a consequence of unsustainable forest exploitation for timber between 17th and 20th century. Water dikes were dig out, causing a change in bogs water regime. The area is being overgrown much faster than it normally (naturally) would be. The bogs vegetation has changed and is slowly approaching to the climax forest stadium. The biodiversity of the area is decreasing. These changes are going on most rapidly in “Klopnovrška barja” and “Javorjev vrh”. Action C1.1. is directly aiming at restoration of hydrology conditions in “Klopnovrška barja”, ”Javorski vrh” and “Lovrenška barja” with sanitation of water dikes constructed in the past. Zelenci: Alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150) habitats are being overgrown by reed, willow and alder trees in the Zelenci area due to the changes in water regime. The biodiversity of the area is decreasing. Mountain streams flowing into Zelenci area are bringing along large quantities of gravel and are filling up the most valuable part of Zelenci. Sava river used to have two branches of which one is fill with dumped construction material and dried up now. Action C.1.2 is aiming at revitalisation of the water flow trough filled up river branch and at a prevention of future gravel accumulation over the project area with the construction of a gravel barrier. To carry out these urgent actions a small block of land will be purchased (B.1.) in the Zelenci project area. Vrhe: A decline of alkaline fens (7230) and a habitat of Liparis loeselii is caused by a building of a skidding track above the wetland area in the Vrhe project area. As a consequence the wetland area is not getting enough water and is becoming drier. The wetland area is undergoing a fast natural succession. The biodiversity of the area is decreasing. Action (C.1.3) is aiming at resorting areas hydrological conditions by construction of two water outflows from the forest skidding track channel. Gornji kal: The “Gornji kal” is the most important sites for the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) in the region of “Bela krajina”. A part of Kriva�a pond was filled up with soil a few years ago and is facing fast natural succession. Kršeljevec pond hasn’t been in use for many years now. A layer of clay on the bottom was destroyed by the local community which was unsuccessfully trying to revitalise the pond. Unfortunately, the pond ended up dry.

Local inhabitants then used the pond for depositing land material as rocks and soil. Due to changed hydrological conditions the two ponds the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) is losing its important habitat and the areas biodiversity is decreasing. The field action (C.1.4.) is aiming at revitalization of the ponds Kriva�a and Kršeljevec to assure a suitable habitat for the Emys orbicularis. Mura Petišovci: The Mura river area is one of the most important sites for the following species of Community importance: fish Umbra krameri, amphibians Bombina bombina and Triturus carnifex, dragonfly Leucorrhinia pectoralis and pond turtle Emys orbicularis as well as the natural eutrophic lakes habitat (HT 3150) in Slovenia. Due to many Mura river regulations which took place in the past, areas water characteristics were changed, causing oxbow lakes to disappear, while the formation of new oxbow lakes is very poor. In addition harmful projects (road construction, filling of oxbow with soil) were carried out. As a consequence the habitats of targeted species are diminishing and the biodiversity is decreasing. The field action C.1.5 will restore two oxbow lakes (“Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša”) past hydrological conditions with the excavation of the material to reach the depth of the oxbows of 2,5m. The aim is to re-establish favourable conditions for Umbra krameri, Bombina bombina, Triturus carnifex, Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Emys orbicularis and natural eutrophic lakes habitat (HT 3150). Threat 2: Name of threat: Overgrowth Description: Past unsustainable water management led to changed wetlands water regime causing wetlands to undergo fast vegetative succession. The wetlands are being overgrown by reeds, other shrub, followed by spruce and other tree. With the hydrological conditions of project sites restored we aim to limit also the threat of future overgrowth of the project areas. Location: Pohorje, Zelenci, Vrhe, Planik, Gornji kal, Mura Petišovci Impact on habitat/species: Pohorje: Active Bog forest–Sphagnum spruce woods (91D0), raised bogs (7110), neutral dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160) and transition mires (7140) as well as habitats of woodland grouse species (Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus) are diminishing as a consequence of fast natural succession, due to changed water regime of wetlands. This threat is present in the “Klopnovrška barja” and “Javorjev vrh”. In addition to restoration of hydrological conditions (C.1.1.) an overgrowth removal action (C2.1.) will be carried out on “Klopnovrška barja” and “Javorjev vrh” bogs. “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1. and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project area. Management of the project area will thus be assured also after the project end. These actions assure future favourable conditions of habitats of target species Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus and Active Bog forest–Sphagnum spruce woods (91D0), raised bogs (7110), neutral dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160) and transition mires (7140). Zelenci: Alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150) habitats are being overgrown by reed, willow and alder trees in the Zelenci area due to the changes in water regime. Gravel accumulation in addition with eutrophication from the surrounding agricultural land is causing a fast natural succession of the area. In addition to restoration of hydrological conditions (C.1.2.), overgrowth removal will be carried out in action C.2.2. “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1. and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project area Management of the project area will thus be assured also after the project end. These actions assure future favourable conditions of Alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150). Vrhe: Alkaline fens (7230) and a habitat of Liparis loeselii are being overgrown by bushes and trees at Vrhe project area. A forest skidding track was built which disrupted the unique water regime of the area causing the wetland to become drier. A fast bushes overgrowth is present. In addition to restoration of hydrological conditions (C.1.3.) overgrowth will be removed to

restore the habitat of Liparis loeselii and alkaline fen (7230) habitat (C.2.3.). “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1. and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project area. Management of the project area will thus be assured also after the project end. These actions will assure a suitable habitat for the Liparis loeselii in the future. Planik: Meadows and fens (habitat of Liparis loeselii) are being overgrown by trees and shrubs. A habitat for Liparis loeselii will be restored by overgrowth removed (Action C.2.3). In addition “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1 and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project. In the view of the long term management and assuring “life after LIFE”, if appropriate Agro-Environmental contracts proof to be insufficient the Nature conservation contracts will be prepared and approved by the competent authority before the project end. These actions will assure a suitable habitat for the Liparis loeselii in the future. Gornji kal: “Gornji kal” is the most important site for the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) in the region of “Bela krajina”. Inappropriate management of the area in the past (lack of and/or unsustainable management, filling of ponds and eutrophication) lead to fast natural succession of ponds, resulting in destruction of Emys orbicularis habitat. In addition to restoration of hydrological conditions (C.1.4.) the overgrowth will be cleaned away on all three ponds (C.2.4). “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1. and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project area. Management of the project area will thus be assured also after the project end. These actions will assure a suitable habitat for the Emys orbicularis turtle in the future. Mura Petišovci: The Mura river area is one of the most important sites for eutrophic lakes habitat (HT 3150) as well as species of Community importance: Umbra krameri, amphibians Bombina bombina, and Triturus cristatus, dragonfly Leucorrhinia pectoralis, pond turtle Emys orbicularis in Slovenia. Due to many Mura river regulations which took place in the past the natural succession is causing oxbow lakes to disappear very fast. In addition to restoration of hydrological conditions (C.1.5.), the bushes and trees will be removed from two oxbow lakes “Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša” (C.2.5). “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1. and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project area. Management of the project area will thus be assured also after the project end. These actions assure future favourable conditions of habitats of target species Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex, Bombina bombina and Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150). Threat 3: Name of threat: Inappropriate fishery practices Description: Past fishery practice were often inappropriate as far as the nature conservation is concerned. To make angling easier and more attractive, the local fishery associations introduced invasive fish species, which grow fast and large, consequently causing the destruction of natural biocenosis. The negative impact can be observed for all autochthonous species due to competition over food and habitat. Location: Gornji kal, Mura Petišovci Impact on habitat/species: Gornji kal: The action is targeted at conservation of favourable conditions for the habitat of the pond turtle (Emys orbicularis). The local fishery association introduced a Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) into ponds. Consequently, the natural biocenosis in the ponds has changed. The Wels catfish will be fished out from the Hrast pond with the help from the local fishermen and the Fisheries Research Institute (C.3.1.). “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1. and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project area in the view of applying nature friendly fishery practices. These actions will assure favourable

conditions for the pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) as well as other autochthones specie. In addition actions are expected to increase biodiversity of the area. Mura Petišovci: In the Mura Petišovci area local fishery association introduced invasive fish species (Ctenopharyngdon idella, Micropterus salmoides and Pseudorasbora parva). They are directly destroying habitats of Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Bombina bombina, Triturus carnifex and Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150) habitat and are disrupting the biocenosis of oxbow lakes. To make fishing positions easier to access, the riverine and the water vegetation is removed in order to assure good standing places, and objects like piers and rafts are being built in and around the oxbow lakes. Non-autochthon fish species will be fished out from “Nagy Parlag”, “Muriša” and “Csiko Legelo” oxbows (C.3.2.). “Conservation guidelines” will be elaborated in action A.1. and will include guidelines for appropriate long term management of the project area in the view of applying nature friendly fishery practices. These actions will assure favourable conditions for target species Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex and Bombina bombina and Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150) as well as other autochthones specie of three oxbow lakes (“Nagy Parlag”, “Muriša” and “Csiko Legelo”). In addition actions are expected to increase biodiversity of the area. Threat 4 Name of threat: Destruction of habitats and disturbance of species due to increased human access Description: With the increasing interest in outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, motor biking, motor-sledging, mountaineering and picking of forest fruits (wild blueberries, mushrooms, raspberries), there are more and more people carrying their leisure activities in nature. These activities are present all year round and are directly destroying habitats or are disturbing nesting, feeding and breeding of wild animals. Location: Pohorje bogs, Zelenci, Gornji kal, Mura Impact on habitat/species: Pohorje: Increased uncontrolled visitors leisure activities (hiking, mountain biking, motor biking, motor�sledging) represent the only source of habitat destruction and pose a serious threat for active raised bogs (7110), transition mires (7140), bog forest (Sphagnum spruce woods 91D0*) and natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160). With the tramping of the habitat visitors are directly destroying targeted habitats. These activities are causing direct destruction of the habitat due to tramping of the habitat, in addition human presence is causing disturbance of woodland grouse species (Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus). As far as grouse are concerned, the disturbance has become a concern particularly when tourists getting close to leks, or when they frighten woodland grouse away in winter or during the chick rearing, or when they moult. Wooden footpaths (in the most vulnerable places also fence) will be built in the “Lovrenška barja”, “Ribniško barje” and “�rno jezero” (C.4.1.). In addition a 17 years old wooden watching tower in “Lovrenško barje” located at the end of the footpath will be renovated (C.4.1). By the building of footpaths and fences, this action will direct the visitors through the bogs area in such a way that bog habitats will not be destroyed and the human disturbance of Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus populations will be reduced. Three visitor counters near bogs areas foot paths and a camera mounted at the “Lovrenška barja” watching tower will help survey tourist behaviour (C.4.3.). These action will reduce in human disturbance of Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus populations as well as reduce damage caused by tramping and consequently enlarge the habitat of raised bogs (7110), transition mires (7140), bog forest (Sphagnum spruce woods 91D0*) and natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160). In addition the biodiversity is expected to increase. We believe that the foreseen project activities (C.4, construction of footpaths and fences in combination with the increased control over the project areas in peak visitors season) will be sufficient and will significantly reduce the destruction of habitats and disturbance of species due to increased human access.

Zelenci: Tourists now walk across the Zelenci fen habitats and damage it. Increased visitor activates are the only source of habitat destruction and pose a serious threat for alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150). A footpath will be built to direct the visitors through the bogs area in such a way that bog habitats will not be destroyed (C.4.2.). Damage to the targeted habitats caused by tramping will be reduced. Consequently the extent of the following habitats: alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150) is expected to be enlarged. We believe that the foreseen project activities (C.4, construction of footpaths and fences) will be sufficient and will significantly reduce the Destruction of habitats and disturbance of species due to increased human access. Gornji kal: This area is a popular fishing spot for local fishermen. Fishery practices in the Hrast pond have a negative effect on the population of Emys orbicularis. Fishermen often make their paths to the fishing stands on pond banks through the wetland vegetation. By this fishermen are destroying the habitat of Emys orbicularis (which represents nesting area) and disturbing Emys orbicularis pond turtle. The unsuitable infrastructure will be removed from project areas and new infrastructure for fishermen will be constructed only on one part of the Hrast pond where there would be limited impact on the targeted habitat and species (C.3.1.). In addition new nesting places for Emys orbicularis will be constructed (C.3.1.). These actions will limit the negative effect of fishing on Emys orbicularis assure the favourable conditions for Emys orbicularis in Hrast pond. In addition this threat will be dealt by awareness raising campaigns targeted at local Fishing associations and local fishermen and will raise the awareness of the targeted audience of the importance of Natura 2000 species and habitats and their demands (D). In addition of “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated and incorporated into relevant plans (A.1.). Mura: This area is a popular fishing spot for local fishermen. Constant disturbance caused by fishermen on the river banks and in the river, have negative impacts on target species Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex, Bombina bombina and Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150) vegetation. This threat will be dealt by awareness raising campaigns targeted at local Fishing associations and local fishermen and will raise the awareness of the targeted audience of the importance of Natura 2000 species and habitats and their demands (D). In addition of “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated and incorporated into relevant plans (A.1.). Threat 5 Name of threat: Low level of awareness on importance of the wetland areas Description: The low public awareness is presumably due to two reasons: either people are not informed enough about the ecological importance of the wetland areas and importance of nature conservation, or they have wrong understanding about what the nature conservation is. The described threat will be dealt by public awareness campaigns (actions D). They will include: lectures and presentations (for national and local authority, foresters, fishermen, inspectors, police, land owners, local community and general public), publishing of brochures, printing a leaflets and other informative materials, TV documentary film and 5 TV shots taken, placing info-boards, establishment of and info-centre in Šumik, giving coordinated and targeted communication, etc. Location: Pohorje bogs, Zelenci, Planik, Gornji kal, Mura Petišovci; Impact on habitat/species: Pohorje: Some of the Pohorje bogs visitors perceive the area only as an area for relaxation, recreation and leisure activities and not as an area important for nature conservation. Visitors are unaware of the damage they are doing to habitats and species. With their activities they are directly destroying active raised bogs (7110), transition mires (7140), bog forest (Sphagnum spruce woods 91D0*) and natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160) as well as

disturb populations of Tetrao tetrix and Tetrao urogallus. In order to provide visitors with the information about the Pohorje area, importance of its wetlands and Natura 2000 network, actions D (national and local authority as well as general and local public awareness campaigns, information and notice board, web page, TV documentaries, brochures, leaflets) are aiming at raising public awareness of visiting tourist, local communities, and general public. Zelenci: Low public awareness of visitor about the importance of the wetlands, bog habitats and their vulnerability is leading to the uncontrolled leisure activities causing a destruction of alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150). Actions D are aiming at raising awareness of visitors, local communities, land owners, representatives of the Nordic Centre Planica and general public, national and local authority, foresters, fishermen, inspectors and police about the importance of the wetlands, their species and habitats as well as the Natura 2000 network. Planik: In the Planik project area (habitat of targeted species Liparis loeselii), grassland used to be traditionally cultivated in the past, while nowadays the traditional use is discontinued and land abandoned. It is very important to implement a proper way of maintenance of the wetland. Actions D are aiming at raising awareness of land owners, local communities, foresters, visitors and general public about the importance of wetland and their species and habitats, as well as Natura 2000 network. Gornji kal: In the Gornji kal area, the landowners who have land parcels next to ponds, and local fisherman are not well informed and educated about the importance of preserving ponds. Ponds are the major local water resource and they offer a suitable environment to endangered animal species like pond turtle. The land surrounding the ponds provides both the living and the nesting habitats for the European pond turtle. In addition inappropriate past fishery practices (including the introduction of Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) into ponds is adding to the negative effect. Fishermen are unaware of the ecological needs of the pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), the effect of the entering of invasive species into pond as well as of influences caused by their presence around ponds. Actions D. are aiming at raising awareness of the local fishermen, land owners, local communities, visitors and general public about the importance of wetlands, Natura 2000 network and its species and habitats. Mura Petišovci: In the Mura Petišovci area residents are uninformed about the biodiversity importance of the oxbow lakes. Locals are often dumping soil and building material into them. In addition eutrophication from the surrounding areas is affecting the oxbow habitats. Many inappropriate activities could have been prevented if the nature protection public awareness was stronger. Increased awareness about the importance of the oxbows and its species and habitats as well as Natura 2000 network will have a positive effect on target species Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex and Bombina bombina and Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150). Actions D will target: land owners, local fishermen, local communities, visitors and general public. Threat 6 Name of threat: Intensification of agriculture Description: Socio-economic conditions in the country have changed in the last few decades. Traditional agriculture isn’t beneficial enough anymore, therefore agriculture is being intensified to make it more profitable. Intensification creates problems for nature conservation, such as intensive pasturing, early grass mowing, mineral fertilization for crop enlargement, etc. Additionally, new agricultural methods and machinery that are unfriendly to grassland species (like ensilage and rotary mowers) are being used. This is causing eutrophication of wetlands. In Slovenia farming advisory service is under concession directly from the Ministry of agriculture, forestry and foods. They are the Local authority officially responsible for the implementation of Slovenian agricultural policy on filed. A firming advisor is allocated to each farmer and they provide all the necessary technical assistance to farmers and have therefore a significant effect on local farmers and their activities on filed.

With the aim of significantly reducing the threat of Intensification of agriculture a series of workshops for farming advisors will be organized under D.2. The local farming advisors will then be equipped with the specific knowledge about the Natura 2000 targeted species’ and habitats’ requirements, their conservation measures and the appropriate management of areas surrounding Natura 2000 project sites with the aim of maintaining favourable conservation status of Natura 2000 species and habitats on project sites. They will then be able to advise local farmer of the most appropriate way of farming applied to the land surrounding the Natura 2000 project sites. Ministry of agriculture, forestry and foods is acquainted with the project and fully supporting it. In addition a series of workshops for focal foresters, local fisheries experts, and environment inspectors will be organized. The mentioned target audience have a potential to be very influential in informing and convincing farmers, forest owners, fishermen and local community about the importance of the Natura 2000 and its species and habitats. The aim is to equip these local authorities (local foresters, local fisheries experts, and environment inspectors) of the targeted species’ and habitats’ requirements, their conservation measures and the appropriate management of areas surrounding Natura 2000 project sites. Ministry of agriculture, forestry and foods is acquainted with the project and fully supporting it. Location: Zelenci, Planik, Mura Petišovci; Impact on habitat/species: Zelenci: Intensified agriculture in areas surrounding Zelenci is causing eutrophication of the bogs. Fertilization causes fast growth of algae and accelerates overgrowing of reed, willow and alder trees. “Conservations guidelines” for the appropriate project area management will be drown up (A.1.) and will take into account also intensification of agriculture. Nature friendly management of areas surrounding bogs will be communicated to the landowners, local community, national and local authorities (actions D). Planik: In the Planik area, some meadows in the project area are being intensified and therefore fertilizers may already have a negative impact on the habitat of the orchid Liparis loeselii. “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be drown up (A.1.) and will take into account also the threat of intensification of agriculture. Nature friendly management will be communicated to the landowners, local community national and local authorities in actions D. In the view of the long term management and assuring “life after LIFE” appropriate Agro-Environmental contracts will be promoted and if they proof to be insufficient the Nature conservation contracts will be prepared and approved by the competent authority before the end of the project. Mura Petišovci: In the Mura Petišovci area, intensive agricultural lands are cultivated to the very edge of the oxbow lake “Muriša”. From the point of biology and ecology, a 10-metres wide zone of bushes and trees, extending in all directions away from the water body, is needed (Waters act, Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 67/2002). Such a zone contains relatively sparsely planted bushes and trees which are regularly cut. It would prevent washing of biocides and nutritive substances from agricultural surfaces into water. These zones are smaller every year, or might even have already disappeared in some places. This is having a negative impact on Umbra krameri and the Emys orbicularis pond turtle. The aim is to establish a 10-metres wide zone of bushes and trees, extending in all directions away from the water body. The aim will be presented in awareness raising campaigns targeted at local authorities (D.1.). In addition the zone will be incorporated into “Conservation guidelines” for project area management (A.1.). Incorporation of Nature friendly management of the areas surrounding the oxbows into sectoral management will assure “life after LIFE”.

PREVIOUS CONSERVATION EFFORTS IN THE PROJECT AREA AND/OR FOR THE HABITATS / SPECIES TARGETED BY THE PROJECT

The eldest efforts to preserve the Pohorje Mountain date back to 1922, when “Spomenica”, the protection of mountain forests and raised bogs on Pohorje was proposed. The first legally protected area was the 50ha primeval forest nearby the Lobnica brook in 1967. From 1980 to 1990, additional forest and bog areas were protected. Today, 16 forest reserves are under protection (9 at this project area) with the surface of 941,90 ha, including the majority of Pohorje bog habitats. The first ideas of Pohorje as a natural park date back to 1983, when the first natural protection guidelines were prepared for the Pohorje Regional Park. In 1986, the suggested Regional Park area was introduced also in the Spatial plan of Republic of Slovenia. In the meantime, different studies were elaborated such as: the Ecological study of east Pohorje (Poga�nik, J.:1980, Institution for heritage preservation), Natural Park Pohorje – a concept of development with guidelines for nature conservation (Trafela, E.: 1993, Maribor forest service, 162 p.), and the Expert groundwork for the area of Pohorje Natural Park (Vizovišek, M., 1998, Institution for urbanism Maribor, 138 p.). An important milestone in the designation of the Pohorje park happened in 2001, when a special agreement between all 16 Municipalities at Pohorje and the Ministry of the environment, spatial planning and energy was signed. Since May 2004, a significant part of the Pohorje Mt. range is declared as a Natura 2000 site (SPA and SCI). In years 2007 and 2008 the INTERREG III3 SLO/HUN/CRO titled KaPo was implemented on Pohorje. The project had been dealing with nature conservation planning, visitors’ management, infrastructure studies and civil society networking on Pohorje. The leading partner of the project was the Municipality Ruše. The results from the KaPo project and its established network will be used as a basis for the work on this project. The Slovene Natura 2000 sites management programme - Operational Program 2007 – 2013 plans to begin the process of the establishment of the Pohorje Regional Park in 2010. Activities to declare Zelenci as a protected area date back to 1980, when there was intent to submerge the area and form a lake and on the other hand to drain the area for the agriculture purposes. In the 1992 the Municipality of Kranjska Gora declared the area as a managed nature reserve, which was then certified in 1996. Extensive expert work (inventarisation, mapping) has been done till then. The Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for nature conservation carries out the natural conservation expert work in collaboration with the Triglav national park, which carries out also the field supervision. The Zelenci nature reserve was equipped with some basic information boards, paths and a watching tower in 1990s. In 2004, the whole project area of Planik was declared as a valuable natural feature, an ecologically important area, and as a Natura 2000 site (pSCI) for targeted species Liparis loeselii. Vrhe is declared as a valuable natural feature, and as a Natura 2000 site (pSCI). In the Gornji kal project area, ponds Kriva�a and Hrast were declared as valuable natural features and an ecologically important area. With the acceptance of the Spatial plan of the Republic of Slovenia in 1986, the whole Mura river area has been proposed as a landscape park. In 1990, the proposal was upgraded from the landscape to the regional park. In the same period, the Mura area was declared as a part of EURONATUR, an international park of Danube, Drava and Mura rivers (prepared in cooperation of Austria, Slovenia, Croatia and Hungary). In 2004, the Mura project area was declared as a valuable natural feature of national importance, as an ecologically important area and as a Natura 2000 area according to both Directives. From 2006 to 2011, the LIFE III Nature project titled Conservation of biodiversity of the Mura river in Slovenia (BIOMURA) is taking place northwest from the Mura Petišovci project area.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- B3

EU ADDED VALUE OF THE PROJECT AND ITS ACTIONS

- This project WETMAN aims at re-establishment favourable conservation status of eight (two of them priority) targeted freshwater habitats and six habitats of targeted wetland species. Should the project not be implemented the current alarming status (U2 (unfavourable – bad) for two of six targeted species (Emys orbicularis, Umbra krameri,) as well as five of eight targeted habitats (e.g. Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150), Active raised bogs (*HT 7110), Transition mires and quaking bogs (HT7140), Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (HT7150) and Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) (HT6410) will remain unchanged. In addition four targeted species (Liparis loeselli, Triturus carnifex, Bombina bombina, Leucorrhinia pectoralis) as well as additional two targeted habitats Alkaline fens (HT7230) and Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods (91D0*) are identified as U1 (unfavourable – inadequate). Future trend of the favourable conservation status of Active raised bogs, Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion, Alkaline fens in Europe is assessed as negative.) will not be addressed. With the re-established favourable conservation status of targeted habitats and habitats of targeted species on six project areas we will assist the conservation of targeted habitats and habitats of targeted species of Community importance in the whole European community. - The project WETMAN will assure the conservation of the existing natural resources and biodiversity, and it will give guidance for the future development of wetland areas, to meet the protection requirements of habitats, species, and the water land. - The project WETMAN directly contributes to the Countdown 2010 world wide network and its objectives to tackle the causes of biodiversity losses by 2010. With the revitalisation of hydrological conditions, removal of overgrowth and removal of invasive species on project areas the biodiversity of the project areas is expected to increase. - The project WETMAN will restore the hydrology of the wetland. Consequently the runoff of the rainwater from the wetlands will be decreased, causing higher vegetation transpiration, resulting in a cooling effect of area. This will lead to a more frequent rain which makes a microclimate more stable. The area will also act as a natural air-conditiotionig system which will have a positive impact on climate change. (Water for the recovery of the Climate, A new water paradigm.; Krav�ik, Pokorny, Kohuriar, Kova� and Toth (2008)), - The project WETMAN project will take in account the results of two LIFE III-Nature projects: the “Natura 2000 in Slovenia – Management Models and Information System” (LIFE04NAT/SI/000240), and the “Conservation of Biodiversity of the Mura River in Slovenia” (LIFE06NAT/SI/000066), and INTERREG IIIA KaPo and to develop them further on. - The cooperation with other international organizations (i.e. RAMSAR, EUROSITE) and the implementation of previous wetland projects’ results (LIFE, INTERREG III), in particular relation to the determination of favourable conservations status (FCS) indicators, will contribute towards sharing of knowledge and experiences among the EC countries.

BEST PRACTICE / INNOVATION / DEMONSTRATION CHARACTER OF THE PROJECT

BEST PRACTICE: - The best practice technique for the restoration of hydrological conditions of ponds (restoration of clay layer) and river tributary, gravel barrier construction, as well as overgrowth removal (for bogs and fens) will be applied in this project. DEMONSTRATION: - Article 12 in the Decree of Special Protected Areas (Natura 2000 areas) in Slovenia and the Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals) states that management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia will be integrated into relevant sectoral management plans. The system has not been applied in practice for wetlands. The WETMAN project will significantly contribute to the development of the management methodology for Natura 2000 freshwater wetlands. It will take into consideration the prescriptions of the Birds and Habitats directives, as well as the Water framework directive, and it will combine the efforts of different sectoral management approaches and requirements (i.e. nature conservation, forestry, fishery, water management) to work out a joint nature friendly and sustainable management practices proposal. An integrated systematic approach for standing freshwater wetlands management in the Republic of Slovenia will be developed thought the process of the preparation of the “Conservation guidelines” for project area management. They will later on be incorporated into sectoral plans during this project for the six project areas. The developed inter-sectoral approach to wetlands management will have a demonstrative value future management for other wetland habitats and habitats of species of Community interest in Slovenia, as well as in other EU member states. - Three different methods for revitalisation of hydrological conditions of bogs (dam construction on dikes) will be tested in the case of Pohorje bogs revitalisation. The best method (most appropriate and cost effective) will be indentified. The method will have a demonstrative value for future restoration of other bog areas. - The indicators and reference values for the assessment of the favourable conservations status of the targeted Community important wetland species and habitats will be determined. The indicators will be used to asses the suitability of management methods applied in this project. The indicators and reference can also be applied to asses the suitability of management methods in other project, as well as in a general assessment of the favourable conservations status of the targeted species and habitats in Slovenia as well as in other EU member states. - A monitoring system (according to the Habitats, Species, and Water framework directives) will be developed for targeted Community important wetland species and habitats during this project. The monitoring system for targeted species and habitats can be applied to other Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia as well as in EU. - Suitable management method will be indentified, to assure the favourable conservation status of habitats of the following targeted species of Community interest: Tetrao tetrix, Tetrao urogallus, Liparis loeselii, Emys orbicularis, Umbra krameri, Bombina bombina, Triturus carnifex, Leucorrhinia pectoralis as well as for the following targeted habitats: Bog forest–Sphagnum spruce woods (91D0), raised bogs (7110), alkaline fens (7230), neutral dystrophic lakes and ponds (3160), transition mires (7140) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150), natural eutrophic lakes habitat (HT 3150) for Slovenia. They can later on be applied to management of other freshwater wetland Natura 2000 sites. - A simple Management database will be developed. This database will aid the Slovenian management authorities (ZRSVN) to easily assess data on Natura 2000 habitats and species management measures. All the data would be accessible in one database. Proper management practices of the Natura 2000 sites will thus be assured. The database could later on be incorporated into the existing Slovenian Natura 2000 Information System which is accessible on the internet. The developed management database will have a demonstrative values for other management databases being constructed. - Beside using the usual tools (information boards, brochures, lectures, …), the general public awareness raising will be done also by means of a documentary film, and five TV shots, on the

nature conservation importance of wetland areas and EC habitats and species, which will repeatedly be presented by the National TV (RTV) which is also a project associated beneficiary. INNOVATION:

EFFORTS FOR REDUCING THE PROJECT'S "CARBON FOOTPRINT"

With the re-establishment of the wetlands through these project actions, the water vegetation as well as the water volume itself will increase on wetlands. This will cause an increase in the vegetation primary production, resulting in a reduction of atmosphere CO2. By keeping as many as possible documents in electronic formats only, we will aim at the least possible consumption of paper, and contribute towards a lesser pollution of the environment also by saving printer cartridges. The economical way of the field work will be carried out through the whole project period. The project staff will, if only possible, coordinate themselves to use the smallest possible number of cars to visit the project areas, which will reduce the CO2 emissions. The car which will be bought from projects finances will as far as possible take into account the EU strategy which aims to reduce average CO2 emissions from new cars to 120 grams/km by 2012, around 25% below current levels. We will secure that the car’s CO2 emissions will be as lower as possible.


EXPECTED CONSTRAINTS AND RISKS RELATED TO THE PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION AND HOW THEY WILL BE DEALT WITH (CONTINGENCY PLANNING)

1. The land purchase in the Zelenci project area and the completion of the field actions are related to the question of the land ownership. Although oral agreements with the land owners were obtained prior to project proposal submission and land owners were included into the process of the project application preparation, a small risk is always present. In case that the owners will not be willing to sell their property on Zelenci project area, the beneficiary Municipality of Kranjska Gora or the Environmental Agency of the RS, will try to trade with the owners the specific project targeted parcel with the parcel of a similar land use in a municipalities or a state ownership. In case of a trade off the decision will be made together with the Farmland and Forest Fund of the Republic of Slovenia which is responsible for management of the national agricultural and forests land property. The Fund is under the Agriculture, Forestry and Food Ministry, which is a supporter of the project WETMAN. 2. The severe climatic conditions may delay some of the C- field actions. For example, at the Pohorje bogs and in Vrhe, the winter may last up to six months or sometimes even longer. The best time to do some of the planned field work is when the soil is still frozen, yet the winter is getting towards its end, or in the high summer time, when the soil is the driest. To be sure to accomplish the demanding weather-dependent activities early enough, they will be prioritised to be commenced as early in the project as possible. 3. Delays in the acquisition of agreements for the improvement of hydrology conditions and some field actions. To carry out some field actions the nature conservation consent according to article 6(III) of the Habitats directive (appropriate assessment) is needed. The organization that is responsible for issuing of the nature conservation consent is the Environmental Agency of the Republic of Slovenia. A similar procedure is valid for interventions into wetlands where the Institute for Waters of the Republic of Slovenia prepares the water management consents. The length of the procedure is set by low so their official approvals should be time limited. 4. Disagreements among different parties (e.g. water management officials, foresters, landowners, nature conservation officials) which have different aims and interests over wetland, can cause problems in developing the best possible solutions for any issue addressed. The experience gained thought the inter-sectoral preparation of “Guidelines for preparation of management plans for Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia” in the LIFE04NAT/SI/000240 will help us deal with the situation. Most of the beneficiaries in this project were also involved in the workshops in the LIFE04NAT/SI/000240. In the previous LIFE project all beneficiaries got the experiences with stakeholder involvement, especially with land owners, so the risk is already known and it was and will be dealt with and successfully solved. No other threats or risks are detected, and we hope that we will be able to cope successfully with new ones if they happen to emerge through the course of the project, just us we did it for LIFE04NAT/SI/000240.


CONTINUATION / VALORISATION OF THE PROJECT RESULTS AFTER THE END OF THE PROJECT

• Which actions will have to be carried out or continued after the end of the project? 1. The constructed dikes on Pohorje bogs will have to be regularly maintained. 2. The gravel barrier in the Zelenci project area will have to be regularly emptied. 3. New overgrowth might have to be removed. 4. Monitoring of invasive species in ponds and oxbows. 5. Info boards and wooden footpaths will need to be maintained. 6. Monitoring of the effect of management practices will have to be carried out on project sites,

habitats and species. 7. The Management Database will require a constant updating and maintenance, to assure

the quality information about project sites management. 8. All the after-LIFE activities will be elaborated in the After-LIFE Wetlands Conservation Plan

(E.3.). This “Plan” will also take into account the opportunities for sustainable development like sustainable energy, tourism, etc. and find possible financial founds for those opportunities.

• How will this be achieved, what resources will be necessary to carry out these actions? 1. Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation will regularly survey the dikes

constructed on the Pohorje project area (C.1.1). Maintenance of the constructed dikes after the end of this project LIFE+ will be financed through Pohorje Nature conservation fund (supporting this project). The planed activities and finances will be incorporated into the yearly plans of the Pohorje Nature conservation fund. Pohorje Nature conservation fund is supporting the project.

2. In order to keep the acceptable amounts of gravel in gravel barrier at Zelenci project area (C.1.2.) an agreement between Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation and the Municipality of Kranjska Gora (partner in this project) will be signed before the end of the project to empty the gravel behind the barrier regularly for the next 20 years (at least once per year). This contract will prevent the filling of the project area with gravel also after the project end.

3. New overgrowth is expected to be limited due to the re-establishment of the favourable hydrological conditions of the project areas. Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature will survey the future overgrowth of the project areas. If the threat reapers following parties will assure the removal of the overgrowth: local communities (Gornji kal), local fishermen (Gornji kal and Mura-Petišovci), the Municipality of Kranjska Gora (Zelenci), a Pohorje Nature conservation fund (Pohorje bogs), Agro-environmental measures (Planik) and contractors (under the nature conservation contracts for maintaining and managing the Liparis loeselii habitat) (Vrhe, Planik-if necessarily). Local communities (at Gornji kal), local fishery associations (Gornji kal and Mura-Petišovci) and the Pohorje Nature conservation fund (Pohorje bogs) are all supporting the project, in addition the Municipality of Kranjska Gora (Zelenci) is a partner in this project and a Municipality of �rnomelj (at Gornji kal) is a co-financer of the project). Letters of intention will be signed between Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation and above mentioned parties before the end of the project.

4. Fishery research institute of Slovenia will regularly check the ponds to asses the population of fish. If the threat reappears it will act according to their responsibilities. Introduction of new invasive species will be prevented since the “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be and included into the Fishery unit management plans, which regulate fishery practices in ponds and oxbows.

5. For the maintenance of wooden footpaths in the Zelenci project area an agreement between Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation and the Municipality of Kranjska Gora will be signed before the end of the project. In the Pohorje project area an agreement between Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation and the Pohorje Nature Conservation Fund will be signed before the end of the project to assure the maintenance of wooden footpaths and a watching tower. The Municipality of Kranjska Gora (Zelenci) and the Pohorje Nature conservation fund (Pohorje bogs) are both supporting the project,

6. During the project, the favourable conservation status for selected species and habitats together with the monitoring methods will be elaborated. The project monitoring will be carried out according to the developed monitoring method. The coordinating beneficiary (ZRSVN) and the associated beneficiaries (ZGS, ZZRS, IZVRS, Ruše and Kranjska Gora Municipalities) will assure the monitoring of the effect of the management practices also after the project end. They will carry out the monitoring activities according to their sectoral responsibilities.

7. The administrator of the Management Database will be the coordinating beneficiary ZRSVN. After the project end the ZRSVN will assure the constant updating and maintenance of the database through their regular work.

• Protection status under national/local law of sites/species/habitats targeted (if relevant) N.A. • How, where and by whom will the equipment acquired be used after the end of the

project? All purchased equipment will be used by the beneficiaries for nature conservation activities during and after the project end. The equipment is going to be used either as a regular work (since the beneficiaries are national authorities being responsible for nature conservation) or through the production of propagation material for Natura 2000, as well as for the presentation of protected habitats and species at different awareness campaigns. After the project end, the office equipment and the car will be used for general nature protection work that is undertaken by the ZRSVN and other beneficiaries. Wooden fence and wooden/macadam paths placed in the Pohorje bogs and Zelenci area will permanently assist in protection of the bogs habitats at the areas. • To what extent will the results and lessons of the project be actively disseminated after the

end of the project to those persons and/or organisations that could best make use of them (please identify these persons/organisations)?

The “Conservation guidelines for pilot areas management” and the best practices for the management of targeted habitat types of wetlands in Slovenia will be presented to national and local authorities (Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning, Environmental Agency of the Republic of Slovenia, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food, ZGS, IZVRS, ZZRS, Ruše, Kranjska Gora, other municipalities) and relevant stakeholders (tourist and fishing associations, land owners) either through workshops or targeted bilateral visits. The project results will also be presented at international conferences which will be held during the course of the project in the European Community. In addition the importance of wetland and their conservation will be communicated on the Narava – Zdravje (Nature – Health) fair in Ljubljana and, if appropriate, also at other fairs, a promotion of the LIFE+ project and Natura 2000 network in the context of the World Habitat Day will be organized in a town centre.

LIFE + Nature and Biodiversity TECHNICAL APPLICATION FORMS

Part C – detailed technical description of the proposed actions

Important note:

� All calculations and detailed cost breakdowns necessary to justify the cost of each action should be included in the financial forms F. In order to avoid repeating the financial information (with the risk of introducing incoherencies), Part C should only contain financial information not contained in the financial forms (e.g. details explaining the cost per hectare).

� All forms in this section may be duplicated, so as to include all essential information.

� Each action described should have a clear indication of its physical target (e.g., action 1 will take place in area "X" and/or will target species "Y"). Whenever this is relevant, the location of these actions should also be identified on one or several maps which must be provided in annex (preferably one map per site). Where feasible, a map of each site should be provided that indicates the location of all the actions taking place on that site.

� Any action that is sub-contracted should be just as clearly described as an action that will be directly carried out by the beneficiaries.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- C1a

DETAILS OF PROPOSED ACTIONS

A. Preparatory actions, elaboration of management plans and/or of action plans ACTION A.1: ELABORATION OF THE ”CONSERVATION GUIDELINES FOR PROJECT AREA

MANAGEMENT”

Description (what, how, where and when): Article 12 in the Decree of Special Protected Areas (Natura 2000 areas) in Slovenia and the Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals) state that management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia will be integrated into relevant sectoral management plans. In the Slovenian legislation, several national authorities are responsible for the preparation of management plans for different natural resources (fishery, forestry, water). Namely, the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation is, in accordance with the Nature Conservation Act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 96/2004), responsible for the preparation of nature conservation guidelines and is involved in the preparation of management plans for protected areas, if a specific management plan is needed. The Slovenia Forestry Service is, in accordance with the Act on Forests (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 30/1993), responsible for the preparation of forest management plans, for forest management local units (of approx. 2000-6000 ha), as well as for the forest management plans preparation, for forest regional units (of tens of thousands of hectares). The Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia is, in accordance with the Waters act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 67/2002), responsible for the water management planning, as well as for the freshwater and maritime engineering, for the preparation of technical backgrounds for Water framework directive implementation, while the Fishery Research Institute of Slovenia is, in accordance with the Freshwater Fisheries Act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 61/2006), responsible for the fishery management plans elaboration. In many cases, different sectors’ responsibilities meet in wetland areas and sectoral disagreements are not unusual. Consequently, responsibilities are shifted from one sector to another. This may lead to poor or no management at all. In this project, an efficient way of inter-sectoral management of wetlands in Slovenia (by collaboration with different relevant public sectors) will be shown, through the elaboration of “Conservation guidelines for project area management” (for all six project areas). The established partnership among sectors will bring an added value to long term wetland management. The project areas were chosen on the basis of: a.) The characteristic representation of habitats and species of the Slovenian standing

freshwater wetland types b.) a need of specific management (since the current management is inappropriate or is even

non-existent) for the long-term conservation of habitats and species of Community interest c.) regional representation

The “Conservation guidelines for project area management” will be elaborated for entire six project areas (4,439,28ha) through a series of training workshops (10) with relevant national authorities (project partners) and other possible stakeholders, depending on the specifics of the project area. Training workshops will be held in office as well as in the field (at project areas). A specific workgroup will be formed for each project area.

Project area

Participants of working groups for elaboration of “Conservation guidelines”

ZRSVN IZVRS ZZRS ZGS Municipality

Ruše

Municipality Kranjska Gora

Other stakeholders

Pohorje bogs � � � � Other municipalities (4) and

communities.

Zelenci � � � �

Environmental agency of the Republic of Slovenia, Podkoren agricultural community, Triglav National Park.

Vrhe � � � Environmental agency of the Republic of Slovenia, land owners.

Planik � �

Environmental agency of the Republic of Slovenia, land owners, Agricultural Chamber – Regional Unit Ljubljana.

Gornji kal � � � Local fisheries association, �rnomelj municipality, Local community Vinica.

Mura Petišovci � � � �

Environmental agency of the Republic of Slovenia, local fisheries association and Lendava municipality and Terme Lendava.

Table: Identification of the workshops’ participants for each project areas (Action A.1.). ZRSVN-Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, IZVRS-The Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, ZZRS-Fishery Research Institute of Slovenia, ZGS-The Slovenia Forestry Service “Conservation guidelines” will include reference values of the favourable conservation status, indicators of the favourable conservation status of habitats/species (identified in action E.2.) and all aspects related to the management of project areas (e.g. area description, historical land use analysis, statement of objectives, long term and short term goals, feasibility, constraints, identifications of the stakeholders involved, list of management measures, cost estimates). The “Conservation guidelines” for each project area will be communicated to the local community at 8 workshops (2xPohorje, 2 Mura, 1xZelenci, 1xPlanik, 1xVrhe, 1xGornji kal). In the process of preparation of the “Conservation guidelines” for each project area each national authority will prepare its share of the guidelines for the management of the project area, according to its sector. With the inclusion of all responsible national authority into the working group we aim to eliminate future disagreements regarding management of the freshwater wetlands in Slovenia (Natura 2000 sites) in the future. The inter-sectoral partnership approach to Natura 2000 site management brings an added value to this project. Local stakeholders and administrations will take part in the preparation of the sectoral plans as well (see Forms A8). The elaboration of the “Conservation guidelines” will start in 2011, and will last to the end of June 2012, for all six project areas. For the successful keeping of the data gathered / produced during the project, a simple database (in Access) will be constructed. It will contain management measures attribute data. The database will be constructed in a way that will assure possible upgrade with the incorporation of new data gathered though the preparation of management plans for other Natura 2000 sites after the project end. The database will assure easier and more successful

inter-sectoral Natura 2000 management, easier assessment of the suitability of the assigned management measures and favorable conservation status. The “Conservation guidelines” for project areas management will have a demonstrative value for future management of other Natura 2000 wetland areas in Slovenia. An integral systematic approach for standing freshwater wetlands management in the Republic of Slovenia will assure a long term favourable conservation status for species and habitats of Community interest. During the course of the project, a training trip to one of the EU member-states (Netherlands), which successfully manages their Natura 2000 wetland sites, will be carried out. Three employees from the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation will make a four-day visit to the country/organization concerned. The equipment necessary to carry out this action will be purchased in the beginning of the project: Three personal computers with software (for the coordinating beneficiary) and one laptop computer (for Slovenian Forestry Service). Necessary equipment for the construction of the database includes (one personal computer with appropriate software), one new Concurrent ArcGIS license and upgrade of six existing ArcGIS licenses will also be purchased. Table below presents detailed description of the total value of sub-actions in relation to each of the project sites

Project site Total value of the sub-action (€)

Pohorje bogs 34.412 Zelenci 21.794 Planik 6.500 Gornji kal 17.971 Vrhe 9.177 Mura Petišovci 32.118 total 121.972

. Reasons why this action is necessary: Article 12 in the Decree of Special Protected Areas (Natura 2000 areas) in Slovenia and the Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals) state that management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia will be integrated into relevant sectoral management plans. In many cases, different sectors’ competences meet in wetland areas and sectoral disagreements are not unusual. Consequently, responsibilities are shifted from one sector to another which can lead to no management at all. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. At least 10 training workshops with relevant national authorities (project partners) and

other possible stakeholders, depending on the specifics of the project area will be held to in the process of the preparation of the “Conservation guidelines”,

2. “Conservation guidelines” for all project areas prepared (covering the area of 4.439,28ha) 3. 8 workshops (2xPohorje, 2xMura, 1xZelenci, 1xPlanik, 1xVrhe, 1xGornji kal) will be

organised with the aim to communicate “Conservation guidelines” for each project area to the local community,

4. Inter-sectoral disagreements will be identified and clarified in the process of preparation of “Conservation guidelines for project area management”,

5. An integral systematic approach for standing freshwater wetlands management in the Republic of Slovenia will be established. It will assure a long term favourable conservation status of standing freshwater habitats and species of Community importance in Slovenia.

6. Partnership among sectors will be established which bring an added value to long term wetland management in Slovenia.

ACTION A.2: PERMIT PROCEDURES

Description (what, how, where and when): Some interventions foreseen in the project actions fall under the requirement to obtain the Nature conservation consent, according to the Article 105. of the Nature Conservation Act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 96/2004). As the interventions foreseen in the project will be carried out on Natura 2000 sites, an Appropriate assessment (according to Article 6 (III) of the Habitats directive)) will be made under the procedure to obtain a Nature conservation consent (Article 105.a of the Nature Conservation Act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 96/2004). Following project actions fall under this criteria: hydrological works, overgrowth removal, fish out of the invasive fish species and foot path construction. A separate Nature conservation consent will be acquired for each of the six project areas (six Nature conservation consents all together). In addition in order to carry out hydrological works on Zelenci and Mura Petišovci project areas a Water permit will be acquired according to Article 151. of the Water act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No.67/2002 and changes). The Procedure to obtain all the permits will start in 2011 and will last to the end of March 2012, for all six project areas.

Reasons why this action is necessary:

In order o be able to carry out some field action (hydrological works, overgrowth removal, fish out of the invasive fish species and foot path construction) according to the National legislation, six Nature conservation consents and two Water permits will need to be acquired. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Six Nature conservation consents according to the Article 105. of the Nature Conservation

Act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 96/2004) with the Appropriate assessment (according to Article 6 (III) of the Habitats directive) acquired,

2. Two Water permit according to Article 151. of the Water act (Official gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No.67/2002 and changes) will acquired,

3. Project field actions carried out according to the Slovenian legislation.

ACTION A.3: CAR PURCHASE Description (what, how, where and when): A field car will be purchase at the beginning of the project. Employees of the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Regional Unit Maribor will be using the car for all the project activities. Regional Unit Maribor is covering three project areas: Pohorje Bogs, Mura Petišovci and Vrhe. Reasons why this action is necessary: In order to be able to carry out project field action at three project areas: Pohorje bogs, Mura Petišovci and Vrhe a lot of field work is planned. Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Regional Unit Maribor currently owns one car (production year 1996, 274.000 km covered). A car is currently used for all the work carried out through the responsibilities of a public authority for nature conservation. Activities planed under this project will be additional to work currently being carried out. In order to be able to efficiently carry out project activities Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Regional Unit Maribor will purchase a field car. A filed car has been purchased in the 2005 by Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Central unit through LIFE04NAT/SI/000240, Natura 2000 in Slovenia – Management Models and Information System (duration 1.1.2005-31.12.2007). It is currently being used by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Central unit for the life after LIFE activities, as well as for other nature conservation activities carried out under the responsibilities of a public authority for nature conservation. In the 2011, when these project activities are planed to commence this car will already be depreciated. Travel costs in this action present fuel costs from all project actions and are not included in any other actions, because they are solely connected to the car. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): Project actions will be carried out according to the project timetable.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- C1b

B. Purchase/lease of land and/or compensation payments for use rights

ACTION B.1: PURCHASE OF LAND FOR THE GRAVEL BARRIER BUILDING IN THE ZELENCI PROJECT AREA Description (what, how, where and when): In the Zelenci project area, a barrier on a steep mountain stream will be built in order to stop the gravel before it reaches the alkaline fen (C.1.1.). In order to be able to carry out action C.1.2 (construction of a gravel barrier) a part of the land parcel No. 508/1 (approx. surface area of 1.400 m2) of the Podkoren cadastral unit in the Kranjska Gora municipality will be purchased. This parcel is privately owned. The purchase of the land is the most effective option in order to be able to carry out action C.1.2. The parcel No. 508/1 is grassland with overgrowing bushes. It is located in the south-eastern part of the project area, and at the edge of the central part of the Sava Dolinka river spring. The gravel barrier can only be built on the existing (one) mountain stream flowing into Zelenci area, if the aim of the project is to be achieved. The aim is to stop the gravel before it reaches the alkaline fen on the Zelenci project area. The land parcel, over which the stream flows, is a State property. The width of this parcel is only 3.3m. This is not enough for the entire gravel barrier. The size of the planned gravel barrier is 28m wide and 40m long. The right bank of the stream is also a State property but the left bank is a private property. Only the needed area/land on the left bank (privately owned) will be purchased (1400m2). A short access road to the barrier will also run through this area, so that the barrier could be emptied regularly. There is no other area, which would be suitable for the gravel barrier construction and would be entirely in the property of the state. The land will be purchased before the building permit for the barrier construction will be obtained. The coordinating beneficiary will buy the land and sign it into the land register as a national property. Its ownership will then be transferred to the Water Fund of the Republic of Slovenia, in accordance with the Water Act (Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 67/2002). The Water Fund of the Republic of Slovenia is managed by the Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning. This will guarantee that the land will be assigned definitely to the nature conservation purpose, consistent with the objectives of the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. Current prices of a metre squared of grassland are from 1,5 to 10 EUR/m2. They depend on the conditions for agricultural production, e.g. the wetness of the terrain, its steepness, etc. The recommended prices are determined by the Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning for groups of areas with similar conditions. The formal procedure of the purchase will base on the official evaluation of the land price which was obtained in the end of year 2007. In 2009, we observe that the agricultural land prices have not changed significantly since 2007. Geodetic measures and parcelation of the existing land plot, notary’s expenses, etc. are included into the associated charges. According to the LIFE+ Nature and Biodiversity Guidelines for applicants 2009 – Chapter: 2.b How to conceive a LIFE+ Nature project proposal, Land purchase/lease, we provided the evidence that the purchase price is consistent with the current market prices for the type of land and the region concerned (Annex III - Land evaluation scan). Preparatory activities for the purchase will start in the beginning of the first project year (2011), and it will be completed in the first third of 2012.

Reasons why this action is necessary: The purchase of the land is the most effective option in order to be able to carry out action C.1.2. Improvement of hydrological conditions in project area Zelenci, action in which a gravel barrier will be built. The function of the barrier will be to prevent the gravel accumulation over the project area, and to assure the favourable hydrological conditions of the project area Zelenci. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Approx. 1.400 m2 of land purchased which will enable us to carry out action C.1.2. 2. Improved hydrological conditions of Zelenci project area will assure a long-term favourable

conservation status of alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150) habitats.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- C1c

C. Concrete conservation actions The benefiting effect of project filed actions C onto specific targeted habitat types and targeted species, is presented in the Table below

code Targeted habitat type

Project sites

Pohorje bogs Zelenci Vrhe Planik Gornji

kal Mura - Petišovci Sum (ha)

3150 Natural eutrophic lakes 0,00

3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds

3,01 33,42 36,42

7110* Active raised bogs 29,32 29,32

7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs

46,98 1,80 48,78

7150

Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion

1,80 1,80

7230 Alkaline fens 10,50 6,30 16,80

91D0*

Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods

125,44 125,44

code Targeted species

1220 Emys orbicularis 15,93 37,42 53,35 1903 Liparis loeselii 7,96 7,96 2011 Umbra krameri 32,84 32,84

1188 Bombina bombina 37,43 37,43

1167 Triturus carnifex 37,43 37,43

1042 Leucorrhinia pectoralis 27,67 27,67

Tetrao tetrix 98,22 98,22

Additional

distant positive effect

350,00 350,00

Tetrao urogallus 263,26 263,26

Additional

distant positive effect

1400,00 1.400,00

sum 2.316,23 14,10 6,30 7,96 15,93 206,20 2.566,72

ACTION C.1: IMPROVEMENT OF HYDROLOGICAL CONDITIONS This action will be carried out on project areas: Pohorje, Zelenci, Vrhe, Gornji kal and Mura Petišovci. Initial survey reports (E.2.) will indicate possible timetables and exact locations for the improvement of hydrological conditions taking into account specific ecological demands of species and habitats. These will be combined with the data of the actual hydrological conditions of every area, to choose the optimal time interval for field activities. External costs planned for the improvement of hydrological conditions (external costs) were calculated with help of potential external providers (PUH, VGP Drava, VGP Sava). Potential external providers calculated costs according to our action descriptions and specifications of hydrological infrastructure. We then verified the calculations for costs for the improvement of hydrological conditions (received form the potential external provider) with the average costs rate for similar hydrology maintenance and investment works from yearly work programs of Agency for Environment of the Republic of Slovenia. If we’re to re-establish the past hydrological condition of the chosen project areas, the planned hydrological activities are crucial.

ACTION C.1.1: Improvement of hydrological conditions of the “Klopnovrška barja”, “Javorski vrh” and “Lovrenška barja” in the Pohorje bogs project area Description (what, how, where and when): 15 dams on dykes will be constructed in order to stop the outflow of water from bog areas on Pohorje bogs project area. Eight dams on dikes will be constructed on “Klopnovrška barja”, four on “Javorski vrh” and three on “Lovrenška barja” bogs. Size of existing dykes varies from 0,5 to 2,0 metres width and 0,5 to 1,5 metre depth. Dam sizes will vary accordingly. When dykes were dug (in the period between 1910 and 1950) the excavation material was deposited laterally. This material (soil and rocks) will be used for the construction of the dykes. The efficiency of three different methods (of construction of dams) will be tested (see Figure 1.): (1) filing of dikes with soil and rocks (method currently in use), (2) dams constructed from vertical wooden barriers filled with rocks and soil, (3) dams constructed from horizontal wooden barrier additionally covered with rocks and soil. The later two methods were already successfully applied in “Bavarian forest National Park” for reconstruction of water regimes on bogs. The aim is to establish the best practice for dam construction on dikes for Pohorje bog areas. In addition results will have demonstrative value for future dam dikes construction. 1. ) 2.) 3.)

Figure 1.: Schematic view of 3 different methods tested in the project, for dam construction on dykes; namely 1.) Filing of dikes with soil and rocks; 2.); dams constructed from vertical wooden barriers filled with rocks and soil; 3) dams constructed from horizontal wooden barrier additionally covered with rocks and soil The hydrology action will begin in the end of 2011 (preparations), and is planned to be completed until the end of November 2013. The technical hydrological works will be carried out by external assistance. The maintenance of constructed barriers after the end of this project LIFE+ will be carried out through Pohorje Nature conservation fund (See B5). Reasons why this action is necessary: Wetland areas were often hydro-meliorated in the past (17th and 20th century), e.g. drainages were constructed, especially in agricultural land and in forests. With the belief that desiccation of land would intensify agriculture and forestry. It turned out that due to faster trees and bushes overgrowth spreading from nearby meadows, cultivation of bogs and oxbow lakes was hard and land was consequently abandonment. As a consequence of these inappropriate interventions into water regimes, when water dikes were dig out on Pohorje bogs, the water regime of these bogs has changed

significantly. Bogs are being overgrown by shrubs and tree much faster than they would normally (naturally) be. The bogs vegetation has consequently changed significantly and is now in some areas already approaching to the climax forest stadium. Biodiversity of bogs is decreasing. Revitalisation of past water regime of bogs on the central plateau of Pohorje is essential if we’re to maintain the favourable conservation status of the Natura habitat types and species on Pohorje bogs. Renaturation is needed to prevent further drying of bogs and reduction of succession of bogs and mires to the forest climax. Permanent and stable water level of bogs is additionally crucial as this area presents water reserves for residents of Maribor and areas surrounding Pohorje. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation is responsible for the preparation and coordination of the construction of dykes as well as the surveillance of the external technical hydrological works and for the preparation and carrying out of the public tender for the external technical hydrological works. Slovenia Forestry Service will help survey the hydrological work. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Re-establishment of water regime on bogs of Klopnovrška barja (10,2ha), Javorski vrh

(2,4ha) and “Lovrenška barja” (84ha), 2. The underground water level will rise; the ground water level will be restored to its

original state, 3. The extent of active raised bogs (HT110*) and transition mires (HT7140) (at least

4,1ha) as well as habitats of targeted bird species capercaillie (at least 100ha) and Black grouse habitats is expected to be enlarged or improved (at least 100 ha)

4. The quality and structure of bogs vegetation will be improved, namely: active raised bogs (HT110*; 29,32ha); Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*; 125,44ha) and transition mires (HT7140 46,98ha) (76,29 ha),

5. The project actions will have a direct benefiting effect on the habitat of Tetrao tetrix (98,22ha) and the habitat Tetrao urogallus (263,26ha). In addition a distant positive effect of the project action is expected o occur on 350ha of the habitat of the Tetrao tetrix and 1400ha of the habitat of the Tetrao urogallus.

6. Bushes and trees overgrowth will be stopped or slowed down significantly, due to restored hydrological conditions.

7. The biodiversity of typical bogs’ and mires’ vegetation is expected to increase. 8. The best practice for the re-establishment of hydrological conditions on bogs (dam

construction on dikes) will be identified. This will have a demonstrative value for future dam dikes construction.

9. The water reserves for in bogs will improve permanently.

ACTION C.1.2: Improvement of hydrological conditions in the Zelenci project area Description (what, how, where and when): A gravel barrier on an existing steep mountain stream flowing into Zelenci area will be built. The aim is to stop the gravel before it reaches the alkaline fen. The existing stream channel will be expanded (to 28m width and up to 40m long) and deepened up to 1.5m (see figure below). A transverse dam made of rocks and trunks will be constructed at end of the barrier to stop the gravel from reaching the alkaline fens. The excavated material will be used for the construction of the banks, which will later in the project be planted with trees and bushes.

Figure 5.: Gravel barrier: top longitudinal cross-section, bottom transversal cross-section. In order to be able to carry this action a part of the land parcel No. 508/1 approx. surface area of 1.400 m2) of the Podkoren cadastral unit in the Kranjska Gora municipality will be purchased (action B.1.). The building permit will be acquired in order to be able to carry out field actions. The dry secondary river channel will be restored to assure the water flow through it. The restored size of the secondary river channel will be: 3m width, the depth up to 40cm and 650m in length. The material excavated will be used for restoration of the banks of the river channel. Since the river channel will be restored in the wetland area, special consolidation of the banks (using rocks or trunks) will not be necessary. The exact characteristics will be determined in detailed plan made by hydrologist under action A.2. In order to be able to carry this action land owners’ agreements will be obtained. Owners of the Sava river branch land are joined in the Agricultural Community of Podkoren which supports the planned hydrology action. The hydrology action will begin in the end of 2011 (preparations), and is planned to be completed until the end of November 2013. The technical hydrological works will be carried out by external assistance. Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature conservation will sign an agreement with the Municipality of Kranjska Gora to empty the gravel behind barrier regularly for the next 20 years at least once per year to assure a long term favourable conservation status of the habitats also after the end of this LIFE project. Municipality of Kranjska Gora is a partner in this project.

Reasons why this action is necessary: Zelenci project area is surrounded with high mountains on one, and with agricultural land on the other side. Mountain streams flowing into Zelenci area are bringing along large quantities of gravel and are filling up the most vulnerable part of the Zelenci habitat. In the past the accumulated gravel was regularly removed by railway workers but in the last few decades a railway trail is no longer in use and the track is no longer maintained. Consequently the gravel is now accumulating in the most vulnerable part of Zelenci habitat. Sava river in the Zelenci project area used to have two riverbed branches, of which one is filled with the material from the local road construction and is dried up now. As a consequence the area’s water characteristics are changed significantly. The process of succession is very fast. The succession is additionally accelerated by eutrophication form the surrounding agricultural land. Reed and reed mace are already spreading over transition mires. Due to unsustainable past management project actions are necessary to re-establish past hydrological conditions of the project area and thus prevent further loss of fen habitats and of targeted species of Community importance. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation is responsible for the: preparation and coordination of the construction of the gravel barrier and river branch restoration as well as help surveillance the external technical hydrological works and is responsible for the preparation and carrying out of the public tender for the external technical hydrological works. The Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia is responsible for surveillance of the hydrological work. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Future gravel accumulation over the wetlands will be prevented, 2. Hydrological condition of a dried up river branch will be re-established (3,5ha) 3. Hydrological condition will be improved over the surface of 54,55ha, 4. The typical mires vegetation will improve, namely: alkaline fens (HT7230; 6,5ha), transition

mires (HT7140; 15,3ha), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (HT7150; 6,9ha)

5. The extent of typical mires vegetation: alkaline fens (HT7230), transition mires (HT7140), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (HT7150) will be enlarged in total area for at least 2ha,

6. The spreading of reed and reed mace over transition mires will be stopped due to the improved hydrological conditions,

7. The biodiversity of mires’ and fens’ vegetation is expected to increase, 8. Signed agreement with the Municipality of Kranjska Gora will assure active management

of gravel accumulation also after the project end. This will assure a long tem favourable conservation status of targeted habitats.

ACTION C.1.3: Improvement of hydrological conditions in the Vrhe project area Description (what, how, where and when): Two water outflows from the existing forest skidding track channel will be built in the length of 15 meters, with the diameter of fi=60 cm in concrete execution. The outflows will be permanent for next 30 years time without extra interventions. After overgrowth will be cleaned out, now regulated stream will be dispensed through the area of fens by two redirection

channels. Consequently trickling dispensed water will improve humidity of fens on approx. 1ha and improve ecological requirements for targeted orchid Liparis loeselii. The hydrology action will begin in the end of 2011 (preparations), and is planned to be completed until the end of November 2013. The technical hydrological works will be carried out by external assistance. Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature conservation will regularly check the concrete water outflows after the project end and clean them up. Reasons why this action is necessary: Due to forest exploitation (building of a skidding track for wood transportation in 1990s) the water regime in Vrhe project area has been changed significantly. The forest skidding track channel crosses the slope above the bogs area and carries the water away, consequently reducing the amount of water flow to the alkaline fens. The succession of tree vegetation has thus been progressing faster than naturally. A decline of suitable habitat for the targeted orchid species Liparis loeselii and alkaline fens (HT7230) has been observed. To prevent further drying of fens and succession of fens to the climax forest stage, the water regime will be revitalised. This is crucial for the conservation of favorable conditions for alkaline fens (HT7230) as the habitat of targeted orchid species Liparis loeselii.

Beneficiary responsible for implementation:

Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation is responsible for the: coordination of the skidding track water outflows construction, surveillance of the external technical hydrological works and as well as for the preparation and carrying out of the public tender for the external technical hydrological works. Slovenia Forestry Service will help survey the hydrological work. Expected results (quantitative information when possible) 1. Hydrological conditions of the project area will be re-established (6,3ha), 2. The extent of the habitat of targeted species Liparis loeselii (1ha) and alkaline fens habitat

(HT7230) is expected to be increased (1ha), 3. The overgrowing with bushes and trees will be stopped or slowed significantly; due to

restored hydrological conditions. 4. The biodiversity of the area is expected to increase. ACTION C.1.4: Improvement of hydrological conditions of ponds in the Gornji kal project area Description (what, how, where and when): In the ponds “Kriva�a” and “Kršeljevec” sediments will be dug out and the ponds will be deepened for approximate 1-2 metres. In addition the clay layer will be renewed. The ponds will be revitalized to their former condition (0,75ha). In the aim to mineralize the eutrophication of the “Hrast” pond the tributary meteoric water from the surrounding areas and the local road will be captured in the length of over 100 meters and led away from the pond. The hydrology action will begin in the end of 2011 (preparations), and is planned to be completed until the end of November 2013.

The technical hydrological works will be carried out by external assistance. No after LIFE activities will be needed to maintain the hydrological conditions of the restored ponds. Local fishery association (supporting this project) will regularly check the ponds. Reasons why this action is necessary: There are three ponds in the project site Gornji kal: Kriva�a (0.12ha), Hrast (1.2ha), and Kršeljevec (0.6ha). Both active ponds, Hrast and Kriva�a, are important breeding places of the targeted species European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis). Hrast pond lies in the vicinity of the local road. The water flowing into the pond from the surrounding area is causing eutrophication and sediment build-up, which is resulting in changed hydrological conditions. A part of the pond Kriva�a was filled up with soil a few years ago. The third pond Kršeljevec is currently in unfavorable condition due to poor management in the past e.g. destruction of a layer of bottom clay layer, deposition of building material as rocks and soil. Eutrophication and succession present an additional threat for the pond turtle which is vanishing rapidly. The project actions are necessary to restore hydrological conditions in ponds in order to be able to restore the favorable conservation status of the pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) habitat in the Gornji kal project area.


Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation is responsible for the: preparation and coordination of the revitalization of ponds as well as for the surveillance of the external technical hydrological works and for the preparation and carrying out of the public tender for the external technical hydrological works. The Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia and the Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia is will help survey the hydrological work. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Ponds “Kriva�a” (0,12ha) and “Kršeljevec” (0,6) will be revitalized 2. Hydrological condition of ponds and the surrounding area improved over the surface of

15,93ha, 3. Resting places (5), shelters (2), and places for disposal of eggs (2) for pound turtle (Emys

orbicularis) will be created 4. Habitat of Emys orbicularis will be improved over the area of 15,93ha 5. The eutrophication and the sediment build up at the “Hrast” pond will reduced, 6. Succession will be stopped or slowed down significantly due to restored hydrological

conditions. 7. The biodiversity of the ponds is expected to increase. ACTION C.1.5: Improvement of hydrological conditions of oxbows “Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša” in Mura Petišovci project area Description (what, how, where and when): The “Nagy Parlag” oxbow will be revitalised by the removal of dumped material (1.5ha). The material will be dug out to reach the depth of the oxbow of 2,5 m. In addition a dike will be

constructed between the macadam road and the “Nagy parlag” oxbow lake to reduce future dusting and the eutrophication of the oxbow lake. The “Muriša” oxbow also will be revitalised by the digging out of the deposited material to reach the depth of the oxbow of 2,5 m (1,2ha). The hydrology action will begin in the end of 2011 (preparations), and is planned to be completed until the end of November 2013. The technical hydrological works will be carried out by external assistance. No after LIFE activities will be needed to maintain the hydrological conditions of the restored oxbows. Local fishery association (supporting this project) will regularly check the ponds. Reasons why this action is necessary: Due to many Mura river regulations which took place in the past the natural succession is very fast causing oxbow lakes to disappear, while the formation of new oxbow lakes is very poor. In addition unsustainable management of oxbows (road construction, dumping of the material) caused the oxbows to be in unfavourable condition. Near the eastern part of the “Nagy Parlag” oxbow, the macadam road was built in 1990s. Left-over material for the road construction was dumped into the oxbow. Dust and sand from the road are accumulated in the oxbow and are contributing to the oxbow’s eutrophication. The oxbow is now almost without any water in its eastern part. In the southern part of the Muriša oxbow lake, the wastes and rubbish were dropped into the oxbow and later covered with the building material. The actions are necessary to re-establish the past hydrological conditions of the oxbows and to prevent further natural succession of bushes and trees at the “Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša” We aim to minimize the threat of low water level in oxbows, eliminate the consequences of past inappropriate interventions (filling of oxbows with soil and other material etc), re-establish favourable conditions for targeted species Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex and Bombina bombina and Natural eutrophic lakes (HT3150) as well as re-establish the natural biogenesis. The threat of overgrowing will be dealt with in action C.2.


Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation is responsible for the: preparation and coordination of the revitalisation of oxbows as well as the surveillance of the external technical hydrological works and for the preparation and carrying out of the public tender for the external technical hydrological works. The Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia and Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia will help survey the hydrological work. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Two oxbows lakes at the “Nagy parlag” (1,5ha) and “Muriša” (1,2ha) will be re-established, 2. The action will have a positive affect over the area of 33,42ha (targeted habitat type

Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds). 3. A new habitat (at least 2,7ha) for species of the Community importance e.g. Leucorrhinia

pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Triturus carnifex and Bombina bombina will be created in the “Nagy parlag” and “Muriša” oxbow lakes

4. The action will have a benefiting effect on the habitat of the targeted species, namely: Emys orbicularis (37,42ha), Umbra krameri (32,84ha), Bombina bombina (37,43ha), Triturus carnifex (37,43ha), Leucorrhinia pectoralis (27,67ha)

5. The biodiversity of the oxbows is expected to increase.

ACTION C.2: REMOVAL OF OVERGROWTH Initial survey reports for all project areas (E.2.) will indicate possible timetables and exact locations for the removal of overgrowth field actions. The exact timing of the field action will be chosen on the basis of hydrological conditions of the areas. Preparatory plans for the removal of overgrowth will be prepared by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation. Removal of overgrowth will be carried out by subcontractors. All external overgrowth removal costs were calculated with the help of potential external providers (GG Bled, GG Slovenj Gradec, GG Novo Mesto, VGP Sava). Potential external providers (small private timber companies) have calculated costs according to our action descriptions and field checking. The prices of removal gain from private timber companies are between 2000 – 6000 €/ha. Calculations vary according to different field characteristics (possibility for machine or hand removal of overgrowth, accessibility of the terrain, humidity, work season, etc). In the Gornji kal project area the calculated costs are higher because in the C.2.4 also the new habitats for pond turtle on 1.2 ha will be created and not only the removal will be done. These external costs are needed remove the overgrowth from the chosen project areas. All the removal of overgrowth actions will begin in 2012, and will be done until the end of March 2014. New overgrowth is expected to be limited due to the re-established hydrological conditions of the project areas. ACTION C.2.1: Removal of overgrowth in the Pohorje bogs project area Description (what, how, where and when): The overgrowth of bushes and trees will be carried out on Pohorje bogs project areas “Klopnovrška barja” and “Javorski vrh”. The removal will combine manual (chainsaw and axe) and forest machinery technique (transportation of logs by a tractor with the help of winch, using bio-degradable oils). The overgrowth removal action will take place on 10ha. The work will be divided into manageable parts (in total covering 10ha). Overgrowth will be removed only once. All the removal of overgrowth actions will begin in 2012, and will be done until the end of March 2014. The overgrowth will be removed by an external subcontractor. New overgrowth is expected to be limited due to the re-established hydrological conditions of the project areas. We predict no overgrowth removal activities would be needed on the area for at lest next 20 years The Slovenia forest service and the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature conservation will survey the future overgrowth of the project area. If the threat reapers overgrowth removal will be financed through the Pohorje nature conservation fund, who is supporting the project. Reasons why this action is necessary: Active raised bogs and transition mires are being overgrown by bushes and trees vegetation. Bog forests are changing into the climax stadium of the Norway spruce forests, which is

causing habitats and species of the Community importance to be in unfavourable condition. Habitats are being redacted and the habitat structure changed. The most effected habitats are active raised bogs (HT110*) and transition mires (HT7140*) together with the habitats of targeted bird species Capercaille and Black grouse. Overgrowing is the main problem in the project areas of “Klopnovrška barja” and “Javorski vrh”. The main reasons for fast overgrowing will be dealt with in action C 1.1. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation. Slovenia Forestry Service will help prepare a plan for the execution of this action, obtain the consent form the forest owners, prepare and coordinate the overgrowth removal, prepare and carry out the public tender for the external technical works as well as the survey of the external technical works. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. The overgrowth will be cleared away on 10ha, 2. The extent of targeted active raised bogs (HT7110*) and transition mires (HT7140)

habitats is expected to increase (10ha), 3. Suitable woodland grouse habitats will be re-established, 4. The structure of the targeted habitats will be restored, 5. A balance of bogs and mires will be restored, 6. The biodiversity of the project are is expected to increase, 7. The change of the bogs and mires into forest climax stage will be slowed down for at least

two decades. ACTION C.2.2: Removal of overgrowth in the Zelenci project area Description (what, how, where and when): Reed and bush will be cut and removed over the area of 4ha, where the overgrowing of transition mires (HT7140) and alkaline fens (HT7230) habitats is most intensive. The action will be done solely manually. The whole area of 4ha will be removed in one season. The removal will be carried out only once/site. The overgrowth will be removed when water level is low, e.g. in winter or in summer. New overgrowth is expected to be limited due to the re-established hydrological conditions of the project areas. The Slovenia forest service and the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature conservation will survey the future overgrowth of the project area. If the threat reapers removal overgrowth will be financed through the Municipality of Kranjska, Gora who is a partner in this project. All the removal of overgrowth actions will begin in 2012, and will be done until the end of March 2014. Reasons why this action is necessary: Gravel accumulation in addition with eutrophication from the surrounding agricultural land is causing a fast natural succession (bushes and trees overgrowing) of the project area. Succession is additionally accelerated by some harmful projects done in the past, such as road construction and waste disposal. The overgrowing is threatening transition mires (HT7140) and alkaline fens (HT7230) habitats. The main reasons for fast overgrowing will be dealt with in action C 1.2.

Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation. Slovenia Forestry Service will help prepare a plan for the execution of this action, obtain the consent form the forest owners, prepare and coordinate the overgrowth removal, prepare and carry out the public tender for the external technical works as well as the survey of the external technical works. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. The overgrowth will be cleared away on 4ha, 2. The extent of targeted alkaline fens (HT7230) (at least 2,5ha) and transition mires

(HT7140) (at least 1,5ha) habitats are expected to increase, 3. A natural balance of bogs and mires will be restored, 4. The biodiversity of typical mires’ and fens’ vegetation is expected to increase, 5. The structure of the targeted habitats will be restored, 6. The change of the bogs and mires into forest climax stage will be slowed down for at least

two decades. ACTION C.2.3: Removal of overgrowth from the Liparis loeselii habitat in the Vrhe and Planik project areas

Description (what, how, where and when): Vrhe project area: In the Vrhe project area, the bush and trees vegetation will be removed from the alkaline fens and the orchid Liparis loeselii habitat, over the area of at least 1,1ha. The removal will combine manual (chainsaw and axe) and forest machinery technique (transportation of logs by a tractor with the help of winch, using bio-degradable oils).The action will be take place in the early spring when the soil is still frozen. The activities will be carried out in two consecutive seasons, in total covering the area 1,1ha. Overgrowth will be removed only once/site With the hydrological conditions of the area restored through the action C.1 the threat of future overgrowth would be reduce significantly. The area of Vrhe alkaline fens, (e.g. parcel numbers 25, 26, 33, 34, 35) are co-owned by two owners whose written support is attached in the Annex. They agreed to occasional graze the area with horses after the end the project, to assure the needed recurring management of the area also after the project end. In addition a Nature conservation contract for Vrhe project area will be signed before the end of the project (A.1.) to assure active management of the area also after the project end (C.5.). The necessity to sign a Nature conservation contract for Vrhe project was established under Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia, (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals), Annex 4.2.. Planik project area In the Planik project area, the bush and trees vegetation will be manually removed from the orchid Liparis loeselii habitat, over the area of at least 1ha. The whole area of 1 ha will be removed in one season. The removal will be carried out only once/site. The action will take place in the early spring when the soil is still frozen. With the hydrological conditions of the area restored through the action C.1 the threat of overgrowth would be reduce significantly. In the view of the long term management and assuring “life after LIFE” Nature friendly management will be communicated to the landowners, local community as well as national and local authorities in actions D. The

“Conservation guidelines” for Planik project area (action A.1) will provide an assessment of the suitability of the Agro-environmental scheme for the conservation of the favourable conservation status of orchid Liparis loeselii for this project area. If the Agro-environmental measures in Planik prove to be insufficient Nature Conservation contracts with landowners on Planik project area will be signed (action C.5.) to assure active management of the area also after the project end. Nature conservation contract will be signed with the keepers and will include the regular cutting of bushes over the habitat of Liparis loeselii. Financial resource will be the assured by national budget In autumn 2008 (prior to submitting the proposal) all of 16 land owners were contacted and the content of the project was communicated to them. 15 of them supported the project the project and; only one owner did not support the project activities. All the removal of overgrowth actions will begin in 2012, and will be done until the end of March 2014. Reasons why this action is necessary: In the Vrhe area, the water level is low because the skidding track has reduced the amount of water flow to the area, causing alkaline fens, habitat of Liparis loeselii to undergo fast succession of tree vegetation. With the hydrological conditions re-established (C.1.3) we aim to limit future threat of overgrowth. In the Planik area, the traditional agricultural land use, including regular mowing, has ceased. Therefore trees and bushes started to grow over the Liparis loeselii habitat. The re-establishment of hydrological conditions in the Vrhe project area will be dealt with in action C 1.2.

Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation. Slovenia Forestry Service will help prepare a plan for the execution of this action, obtain the consent form the forest owners, prepare and coordinate the overgrowth removal, prepare and carry out the public tender for the external technical works as well as the survey of the external technical works. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. The bush and tree vegetation will be removed over the area of at least 2,1ha (in total) on

Vrhe and Planik project area, 2. A balance of bogs and mires will be restored, 3. The extent of alkaline fens (7230) vegetation as a habitat of Liparis loeselii in Vrhe (1ha)

and Planik project area is expected to increase (1,1ha), 4. The structure of the targeted habitat will be restored, 5. The biodiversity of vegetation of alkaline fens (7230) in Vrhe area is expected to increase. ACTION C.2.4: Removal of overgrowth in the Gornji kal project area Description (what, how, where and when): The riparian vegetation overgrowth of the Hrast pond will be removed solely manually. The activities will be carried out in one season, in total covering the area 0,4ha. The action will be take place in the winter or early spring when the water level is till low. Overgrowth will be removed only once/site.

The Hrast pond will be divided into two zones: A Quiet zone and an angling zone. We aim to combine a turtle-friendly environment with a fishery-friendly environment. A “quiet zone” will be created for the pond turtle Emys orbicularis (with resting places, islands, shelters, and places for disposal of eggs) in the eastern part of the Hrast pond. The unsuitable fishing infrastructure will be removed and new infrastructure for fishermen (permanent standing places for fishermen) arranged only in the angling zone. The action will cover the area of at least 0,4ha. Work will be mostly done manually. New overgrowth is expected to be limited due to the re-established hydrological conditions of the project areas. Local fishery association and the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature conservation will survey the future overgrowth of the project areas. If the threat reapers overgrowth removal will be financed through: local communities and local fishery association, both supporting the project. All the removal of overgrowth actions will begin in 2012, and will be done until the end of March 2014. Reasons why this action is necessary: The pond turtle habitat is endangered because of the overgrowth of its habitat with the riparian vegetation. In addition fishery practices in the Hrast pond have a negative effect on the population of Emys orbicularis. Fishermen often make their paths to the fishing stands on pond banks through the wetland vegetation. By these activities fishermen are destroying the habitat of Emys orbicularis (which represents nesting area) and disturbing Emys orbicularis pond turtle.

Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation will prepare a plan for the execution of this action, obtain the consent form the forest owners, prepare and coordinate the overgrowth removal, prepare and carry out the public tender for the external technical works as well as the survey of the external technical works. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. The riparian vegetation overgrowth will be cleaned over the area of at least 0,4ha of the

Hrast pond, 2. The pond turtle Emys orbicularis habitat will improved over the area of 1,2ha, 3. New quit zone for Emys orbicularis will be created (resting places, islands, shelters and

places for disposal of eggs), 4. The disturbance of the pond turtle will be significantly reduced, 5. The biodiversity of the area is expected to increase, 6. Both nature conservation and fishery interest will meet on the same pond without a

constant conflict.

ACTION C.2.5: Removal of overgrowth from oxbows “Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša” in Mura Petišovci project area Description (what, how, where and when): Overgrowth will be removed over the surface of 4ha on oxbows “Nagy Parlag” and “Muriša” in Mura Petišovci project area. The removal will combine manual (chainsaw and axe) and forest machinery technique (transportation of logs by a tractor with the help of winch, using bio-degradable oils). The whole area of 4ha will be removed in one season. The removal will be carried out only once/site. The action will take place in the winter or early spring when the soil is still frozen and water is low.

New overgrowth is expected to be limited due to the re-established hydrological conditions of the project areas. Local fishery association and local Water management authorities will survey the area for future overgrowth. The area will be managed through Water management plans and Fishery management plans, so future overgrowth will be controlled. All the removal of overgrowth actions will begin in 2012, and will be done until the end of March 2014. Reasons why this action is necessary: The eastern part of the “Nagy Parlag” oxbow and the southern part of “Muriša” oxbow are overgrown by bushes and trees. Action is necessary to remove reed, bush and tree succession to assure proper habitat conditions for the conservation of pond turtle Emys orbicularis, amphibians Bombina bombina and Triturus carnifex and the Leucorrhinia pectoralis dragonfly.

Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation. Slovenia Forestry Service will help prepare a plan for the execution of this action, obtain the consent form the owners, prepare and coordinate the overgrowth removal, prepare and carry out the public tender for the external technical works as well as the survey of the external technical works. Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Overgrowth vegetation will be cleaned over at least 4ha of oxbows “Nagy Parlag” and

“Muriša”, 2. The habitat of targeted species Emys orbicularis, Bombina bombina, Triturus carnifex and

Leucorrhinia pectoralis is expected to enlarge (4ha), 3. The structure of the targeted species habitat will be restored, 4. The biodiversity of oxbows is expected to increase.

ACTION C.3: REMOVAL OF INVASIVE FISH SPECIES A technique, electro fishing from a boat, will be used for the elimination of alien species from ponds in Gornji kal and Mura Petišovci oxbows. To achieve the main goal – extermination of alien fish species, it is necessary to repeat the electro fishing many times. We plan to combine the electro fishing with other methods of fishing. Different fishing nets, which are also used for such purposes, will not be used in this case, since they can be harmful for other species. Electro fishing performed in proper way is harmless for other fish species. In the fishpond Hrast (Gornji kal project area) we plan to catch Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) also with traditional fishing techniques, such as the parangal and sport fishing by night.

Slovenian Fishery research institute, a project partner, is the Slovenian national authority responsible for fishing and is fully equipped with knowledge identified in papers Water quality - Guidance on the scope and selection of fish sampling methods (OSIST prEn 14962:2004) and Water quality – Sampling of fish with electricity (SIST EN 14011:2003); European standards; European Committee for Standardization. Inventory reports for the Gornji kal and Mura Petišovci project areas (result of E.2. action) will indicate possible timetables for the fish-out of invasive fish species. They will take into consideration species’ and habitats’ ecological demands and to the hydrology conditions of the area. Due to the size of invasive species populations in the pond “Hrast” and in Mura oxbow lakes, the removal activities will be repeated at least twice. The first removal will be before the overgrowth removal actions (C.2.4 and C.2.5), and the second one after actions C.2.4 and C.2.5. will be carried out. The work will begin in 2012, and will be completed until the end of September 2013. The equipment necessary to carry out this action (one sub water digital camera, fishing lines, and fishing nets) will be purchased by the associated beneficiary (The Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia) in the beginning of the project. Reasons why this action is necessary: Past fishery management practice in the Gornji kal and Mura Petišovci areas were inappropriate as far as the nature conservation is concerned. To make angling easier and more attractive, the local fishery associations introduced invasive fish species, which grow fast and large. The negative impact of the invasive fish introduction can be observed for all autochthonous fish, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates species, due to competition among the invasive and the autochthonous species over food and habitat. Consequently, the natural biocenosis of the area has changed. Beneficiary responsible for implementation:

The Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia (for both C3 sub-actions).

ACTION C.3.1: Removal of invasive fish species from the “Hrast” pond in the Gornji kal project area Description (what, how, where and when): The population of the Wels catfish invasive allochthonous species (Silurus glanis) will be fished out from the pond. Before the action starts, the Fishing Society of �rnomelj will organize a fishing contest for the Wels Catfish in the “Hrast” pond. We expect that it will

contribute to the success of the action and also serve as awareness campaign targeted at local fishermen. “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be elaborated (A.1.) and included into the Fishery unit management plans, which will regulate future fishery practices in ponds. The work will begin in 2012, and will be completed until the end of September 2013. Fishery research institute of Slovenia will regularly check the ponds to asses the population of fish. If the threat reappears it will act accordingly. Introduction of new invasive species will be prevented since a “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be included into the Fishery unit management plans, which will regulate fishery practices in ponds (C.5.). Reasons why this action is necessary: The main problem for conservation of the European freshwater pond turtle Emys orbicularis in the “Hrast” pond in the Gornji kal project area is inappropriate past fishery practices (mass entering of invasive fish species Silurus glanis). The negative impact of the introduced invasive fish species can be observed for targeted species Emys orbicularis due to competition over food and habitat. I addition young pond turtles are Silurus glanis frequent prey. The negative impact can be observed also for all autochthonous species. Beneficiary responsible for implementation:

The Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia

Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. The population of the invasive Wels Catfish will be fished out from the “Hrast pond”, 2. Suitable habitat for targeted species Emys orbicularis will be re-established (1.2ha), 3. The biodiversity of the pond will increase, 4. In addition the nature conservation awareness of local fishermen will rise. ACTION C.3.2: Removal of invasive fish species from all three project oxbow lakes in the Mura Petišovci project area Description (what, how, where and when): The populations of invasive allochthonous fish species Ctenopharyngdon idella, Micropterus salmoides and Pseudorasbora parva will be fished out from the following oxbow lakes “Nagy parlag”, “Muriša”, and “Csiko Legelo”. The fish-out will be done by The Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia and by means of: fishing nets, lines, a sub-water digital camera, and an electro-fishing stunt device. In addition appropriate locations for fishermen stands will be determined. The work will begin in 2012, and will be completed until the end of September 2013. Fishery research institute of Slovenia will regularly check the ponds to asses the population of fish. If the threat reappears it will act accordingly. Introduction of new invasive species will be prevented since a “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be included into the Fishery unit management plans, which will regulate fishery practices in oxbows (C.5.). Reasons why this action is necessary: Inappropriate past fishery practices including mass entering of allochthonous species (such as Grass Carp, Sunfish and Pseudorazbora), caused a significant change in the oxbow lakes

biocenosis. The negative impact can be observed for all autochthonous species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates, due to competition among the invasive and the autochthonous species (over food and habitat). The removal of the invasive fish species is necessary in order to be able to re-establish favourable conservation status of the habitats of the following species of Community importance: a dragonfly Leucorrhinia pectoralis, the fish Umbra krameri, the pond turtle Emys orbicularis and of amphibians Bombina bombina and Triturus carnifex in all three project targeted oxbow lakes. Beneficiary responsible for implementation:

The Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Populations of invasive species Ctenopharyngdon idella, Micropterus salmoides, and

Pseudorasbora parva will be fished out from the oxbow lakes “Nagy parlag”, “Muriša”, and “Csiko Legelo”,

2. Suitable habitat for targeted species Leucorrhinia pectoralis, Umbra krameri, Emys orbicularis, Bombina bombina and Triturus carnifex will be re-established (2,7ha),

3. The biodiversity of the pond will increase.

ACTION C.4:

PREVENTION OF HABITAT DESTRUCTION AND DISTURBANCE OF SPECIES With the increasing interest in outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, motor biking, motor-sledging, mountaineering and picking of forest fruits (wild blueberries, mushrooms, raspberries), there are more and more people doing their leisure activities in nature. These are directly destroying fen and bog habitats (Sphagnum spruce woods, active raised bogs, transition mires, alkaline fens, and natural dystrophic lakes and ponds) and are disturbing nesting, feeding and breeding of wild animals. Wooden foot-paths will be built and simple fence built in the most sensitive parts of the project areas Pohorje bogs and Zelenci. Initial surveys for the Pohorje bogs and Zelenci project areas (E.2.) will indicate possible timetables and exact locations of this action due to species’ and habitats’ ecological demands and hydrology conditions of the area. Infrastructure costs (costs for the wooden foot-paths in the length of 750 m, fence in the length of app. 200m, renewing the watching tower in Pohorje bogs project area and macadam footpath in length of 350 m in Zelenci project area) are needed to prevent habitat destruction and are a part of the concrete conservation actions. They were calculated on the basis of the tenders. Infrastructure costs, in our project application, under the actions C (filed actions) amount in to total 90.000 € (action C.4 - 80.000 for Pohorje bogs project area and 10.000 € for Zelenci project area). The total amount of the actions C is 1.054.338 €. When calculated that means that the infrastructure costs under actions C (Action C.4) represent only 8,5% of all C actions. All other durable costs under actions C represent equipment costs. Table 7.: Detailed breakdown of Durable goods to Equipment costs and infrastructure costs. The building will begin in the end of 2011, and will be done in 2012. Visitors control on Pohorje bogs areas will be established till the end of May 2013. Data gathering and analyses will be made till the end of the project and further on after LIFE project. The building of infrastructure will be done with subcontractors. Beneficiary responsible for implementation:

Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation (for all three E4 sub-actions) ACTION C.4.1: Prevention of habitat destruction and disturbance of species in Pohorje bogs project area Description (what, how, where and when): In the Pohorje bogs project area (“Lovrenška barja”, Ribniško barje” and “�rno jezero”) the wooden foot-paths will be built in the total length of 750 m. A simple fence will be built in the most sensitive parts area (app. 200m) to prevent visitors from walking off the trail. In one end of the foot-path in “Lovrenška barja”, the existing worn out watching tower will be renewed, to assure the safety of visitors. The construction will begin in the end of 2011, and will be done in 2012.

Durable goods C actions Equipment costs 33.000 € Infrastructure costs 90.000 € TOTAL 123.000 €

In order to assure maintenance of wooden footpaths and a watching tower also after the project end in the Pohorje project area an agreement between Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation and the Pohorje Nature Conservation Fund (supporting this project), will be signed before the end of the project. Reasons why this action is necessary: The mass-walking and the presence of traffic (cyclists and motor vehicles in summer and in winter) is damaging the roots and sprouts of Pinus mugo and is destroying peat mosses (Sphagnum sp.) which is leading to a destruction of bog habitats. The action is orientated toward the preservation of bog habitats (active raised bogs (HT7110*), Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*), natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160), transition mires (HT7140). This action is also necessary to help prevent the further decline of Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and Capercailie (Tetrao urogallus) populations. They are being disturbed by visitors’ activities. The aims are to prevent visitors from freely walking across the habitats and redirecting visitors away from the most vulnerable areas. A need for the construction of the visitors’ management infrastructure also is stated in the annex 4.6., Group 2. of the Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals). Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Wooden foot-paths in the total length of 750 m built (at “Lovrenška barja”, Ribniško barje”

and “�rno jezero”). A simple fence built in the most sensitive parts area (app. 200m). An existing worn out watching tower renewed in “Lovrenška barja”,

2. The direct damage of bog habitats due to tramping of the habitat will be significantly reduced,

3. The bog habitats (active raised bogs (HT7110*) (1,1ha), Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*) (0,5ha), natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160) (2,4ha), transition mires (HT7140) (0,3ha) as well as habitat of targeted Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and Capercailie (Tetrao urogallus) (4,3ha; remote influence on 50ha) populations are expected to be enlarged and the quality of the habitat improved,

4. The diversity of typical bogs’ and mires’ vegetation is expected to increase. ACTION C.4.2: Prevention of habitat destruction on Zelenci project area Description (what, how, where and when): The footpath will be built in the eastern part of the project area, towards the village Podkoren, in the total length of 350 m, and the width of 160 cm. It will respect the micro relief and the mires and alkaline fens habitats, and will be placed at the edge of the project area. It will be covered by sand. The path side-edges will be wooden. There will be small signposts along the path. The building will begin in the end of 2011, and will be done in 2012. In order to assure maintenance of wooden footpaths also after the project end in Zelenci project area an agreement between Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature

Conservation and the Municipality of Kranjska Gora (a partner in this project) will be signed before the end of the project. Reasons why this action is necessary: Only one footpath (built about ten years ago) is currently established in the project area. Tourists now walk off the existing footpath and walk across the Zelenci fen habitats and damage it. This represents a serious threat for alkaline fens (7230), transition mires (7140), and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150). A footpath will be built in the eastern part of the project area with the aim of leading visitors thought the most vulnerable parts of the area to the village of Podkoren without damaging the fen habitats. The action is targeted at conservation of habitats of following community important habitats: transition mires (7140), alkaline fens (7230) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150). Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. The footpath in the total length of 350 m, and the width of 160 cm built in the eastern part

of the project area, towards the village Podkoren, 2. A significant reduction of the damage of bog habitats due to the tramping of the habitat, 3. The extent of bog habitats is expected to increase and/or the quality of the habitat will be

improved: transition mires (7140) (at least 3,5ha) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (7150) (at least 3ha),

4. The biodiversity of typical bogs’ and mires’ is expected to increase. ACTION C.4.3: Visitors’ surveillance on the Pohorje bogs project area Description (what, how, where and when): Three visitor counters in Lovrenška barja, Ribniško barje and �rno jezero will be placed at visitors main entrances. Counters (Passive Infra-Red (PIR) body-heat sensors) will count the number of visitors 24 hours per day. Data will be analysed/processed with EcoPC and Numero software. Following results will be obtained: maximum number of visits per site; number of visitors per day; visitor load (e.g. visitor hours) per site; visitor flow (e.g. persons/hour/direction) per site and visitor seasonality. In addition, visitors’ data will be compared to the species ecological demands and habitats requirements. Possible conflict seasons and locations will be identified. The aim is to minimise conflicts between visitors and nature conservation. From these data maximum number of visitors per site, maximum number of visitors per day in relation to seasonality will be proposed for each of the Pohorje bog areas. These data will then be used by Employees of the Institute and the Forestry Service to plan their presence on site and limit visitors per site when needed (establishment of quiet season/zones for the capercaillie and black grouse, limitation of number of visitors per bog area). This is crucial if we’re to prevent habitat destruction and disturbance of targeted species on site. The action will be carried out till the middle of the year 2013. The equipment necessary to carry out this action (three counters (Passive Infra-Red (PIR) body-heat sensors) will be purchased by the coordinating beneficiary in the first year of the project. Data analyses and supervision of the visitors’ activities after the project end will be carried out employees of the forest service.


Increased human activities hiking, four-wheels drive motocross bikes in summer, and motor-sledges in winter are damaging bog habitats (active raised bogs (HT7110*), Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*), natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160), transition mires (HT7140) as well as Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and Capercailie (Tetrao urogallus) populations. Currently we do not have any data on number of visitors per site (Pohorje bogs, namely »Lovrenška barja« bogs, »Ribniško barje« bogs and »�rno jezero« bogs) or their seasonal fluctuation. These data are needed with the aim to establish visitors’ controls over targeted Pohorje bogs project sit. Currently the control is carried out by responsible authorities e.g. employees of the Institute and the Forestry Service. Currently, due to the limited available time, the control is carried sporadically and is not specifically seasonally planned ahead. This does not provide a sufficient, frequent enough control, especially at peak visitors’ periods. A more intense control during identified peak visitors’ periods and on identified specific conflict areas is urgently needed over the project areas. . Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Three visitor counters (Passive Infra-Red (PIR) body-heat sensors) at Lovrenška barja,

Ribniško barje and �rno jezero and a camera will survey the visitors, 2. The quantitative information about the project area visits will be gathered at Ribniško

jezero, Lovrenška barja and �rno jezero, 3. Peak visitation periods will be determined, 4. A more frequent visitors control at peak periods could be planed, which will assure a

significant reduction of the damage to bog habitats and reduction of disturbance of targeted species,

5. The extent of targeted bog habitats: active raised bogs (HT7110*), Sphagnum spruce woods (HT91D0*), natural dystrophic lakes and ponds (HT3160), transition mires (HT7140) as well as Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and Capercailie (Tetrao urogallus) populations is expected to increase.

ACTION C.5.: INCORPORATION OF THE “CONSERVATION GUIDELINES” FOR PROJECT AREA MANAGEMENT INTO SECTORAL AND MANAGEMENT PLANS

“Conservation guidelines” for the entire sex project sites (4.439,28ha) will, by the end of this project, be incorporated into relevant sectoral management plans to assure ongoing management of the project areas also after the project end. All sectoral management plans, management plans for the protected area Zelenci and Nature conservation contracts, with incorporated conservation guidelines, will be legally operational by the end of the project. If in any circumstances the plans will not be officially adopte before the project end we will obtain written statement from the relevant authority that they are committed to adopt them officially. “Conservation guidelines for project area management” will be elaborated for entire six project sites (Action A1), which in total amount to 4,439.28ha, (see Table below). In three cases Pohorje bogs, Planik and Mura Petišovci, the project sites do not cover entire SCIs. The project sites were identified from the point of view of the project aim (conservation and management of freshwater wetlands).

Total area of SCI

ha Project site ha % SCI covered by project site

Zelenci 54,55 Zelenci 54,55 100% Vrhe 6,30 Vrhe 6,30 100% Pohorje 17.241,75 Pohorje bogs 2.571,87 15% Rašica 2.212,32 Planik 18,96 0,86% Gornji kal 18,66 Gornji kal 18,66 100% Mura 8.244,13 Mura - Petišovci 1.768,94 21%

sum 27.777,70 4.439,28

Table 6.: Size of project areas in relation to the size of Nature 2000 sites Detailed description of sectoral planning is provided below: Forestry: Implementation of Conservation guidelines into the forestry management planning system will be through Forestry Sylviculture Plans and Forestry Unit management plans. Forestry Sylviculture Plans are the »forestry action plans with exact detailed plan of measures«. They are legally binding with issued official decree for execution of actions in the forests. Sylviculture plans are prepared by the Slovene Forestry Service and are inline with the Forestry Unit Plans and their objectives, measures for the maintaining favourable conservation status of Natura 2000 species, their habitats and habitat types. Validation of the Forestry Sylviculture Plan depends on durability of planned measure. In the case of our project proposal the durability of the Sylviculture plans will be till the next renewal of the Forestry Unit management plans. In case of renewal of the Unit management plan through this project WETMAN the Conservation guidelines will be incorporated into the Unit management plans. These Unit management plans will be also legally adopted before the end of project. Fishery: In Slovenia the full implementation of Natura 2000 objectives into the fishery sector is planned for the period 2011/2012, when the adoption of the fishery management plans will take place. The validation of fishery management plans is 6 years, so next renewal of the RGNs will then be in year 2016/2017. The Conservation guidelines prepared in this project (action A.1) will be incorporated into fishery management plans, covering project areas. According to the adopted fishery management plans, Fishery societies then prepare yearly operational program, which are adopted by the responsible organization (Fisheries research institute of Slovenia). Active management of pond on Gornji kal project sites and oxbows of Mura Petišovci project area will thus be assured.

Water management: Implementation of Natura 2000 objectives, into the Water management plan covering water areas of the Danube river (including Mura Petišovci project area) will be done in the year 2010/2011. According to approved Water management plan the more detailed water management planes for specific areas will be prepared. The Conservation guidelines for project area Mura Petišovci, prepared in action A.1, will be incorporated into water management planes for Mura and yearly work plans of the Regional water management Units of Slovene Environmental Agency, responsible for on Mura River. The yearly programs of the Slovene Environmental Agency Units are officially approved by the Ministry for the Environment and Spatial planning – Water Fund of Slovenia. After the project end the 1st renewal of the Water management plan on water areas of the Danube river will be made (2015/2016), through which the long-term management of Natura 2000 sites (covering water) on Mura river will be achieved. Nature conservation management planning: The management plan for nature reserve Zelenci will be prepared and adopted by the Kranjska Gora Municipality by the end of the project. Also the nature conservation contracts for Vrhe and Planik (optional, if the agro-environmental measures will not be sufficient) will be adopted before the end of the project, by the responsible authority. Detailed description for each project site is provided below: Pohorje bogs: The “Conservation guidelines” for Pohorje bogs will be implemented into the six corresponding Forestry management plans and its Sylviculture management plans. Guidelines will also serve as the main groundwork for the management plan of the future Pohorje regional park, whose elaboration will be a responsibility of the future park manager. According to the Nature Conservation Act, the Slovene protected areas (parks, reserves) should have management plans. Zelenci: “Conservation guidelines” for the Zelenci project area will serve as a basis for the preparation of the Management plan for Zelenci protected area. The management plan will be adopted by the competent authority - the Municipality of Kranjska Gora by the end of the project. Vrhe: Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals) states that in order to assure a long term favourable conservation status of habitats and species of the community interest for the Vrhe Natura 2000 site a long term Nature conservation contract with landowners should be signed. The “Conservation guidelines” for the Vrhe project area will serve as main groundwork for the preparation of the Nature conservation contract with the landowners. The contracts will be financed trough the national budget, and adopted by the competent authority - the Environmental Agency of the Republic of Slovenia by the end of this project. Planik: The “Conservation guidelines” for Planik project area will provide an assessment of the suitability of the Agro-environmental scheme for the conservation of the favourable conservation status of habitats and species of Community interest for this project area. If they prove to be insufficient Nature conservation contracts with landowners on Planik project area will be signed. The “Conservation guidelines” for the Planik project area will serve as main groundwork for the preparation of the nature conservation contracts. The contracts will be financed trough the national budget, and adopted by the competent authority - the Environmental Agency of the Republic of Slovenia by the end of this project. Gornji kal: The “Conservation guidelines” for the Gornji kal project area will be implemented into the Fishery unit management plans, which will regulate fishery practices in ponds. In order to carry out active fishing in the ponds (with the possible limited import of the carp fish into the pond) the Local fishing association needs to acquire a Concession for fishery management for the pond area. The guidelines will serve as main groundwork’s for the preparation of the Concession for fishery management with local fishing associations. This will be financed trough the national budget, and adopted by the competent authority – the Ministry of the Environment and Spatial Planning of the Republic of Slovenia. Mura Petišovci: The “Conservation guidelines” for Mura Petišovci project areas will be implemented into the Fishery unit management plans and will regulate fishing in oxbow lakes.

In addition the “Conservation guidelines” prepared for the Mura Petišovci project area will be used for the development of the Detailed water management plans for smaller areas. Detailed water management plans will be prepared according to the Water management plan on water areas of the Danube river and the Adriatic Sea (in preparation, according to the Article 55. of Water Act; Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia, No. 67/02; and objectives of the Water Framework Directive). Implementation of the “Conservation guidelines” into the sectoral management plans (6x forestry and 2x fisheries management plans) the Management plan for Zelenci project area, Nature Conservation contracts (Vrhe and possibly Planik) will be carried out until the end of March 2013 (drafts). The management plans and other documents will be approved from the competent authority till the end of October 2014. For a breakdown of benefiting effect of project action C.5 onto specific targeted habitat type and targeted species are presented in the Table below. HT code

Targeted habitat type Project sites

Pohorje bogs Zelenci Vrhe Planik Gornji kal Mura -

Petišovci sum

3150 Natural eutrophic lakes 1.668,20 1.668,20

3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds

4,92 4,92

7110* Active raised bogs 29,32 29,32

7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs

60,97 1,80 62,77

7150

Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion

1,80 1,80

7230 Alkaline fens 10,50 6,30 16,80

91D0* Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods

380,29 380,29

code Targeted species

1220 Emys orbicularis 15,93 1.768,92 1.784,86

1903 Liparis loeselii 6,30 7,96 14,26 2011 Umbra krameri 686,51 686,51

1188 Bombina bombina 1.768,94 1.768,94

1167 Triturus carnifex 1.768,94 1.768,94

1042 Leucorrhinia pectoralis 29,52 29,52

Tetrao tetrix 1.324,80 1.324,80

Tetrao urogallus 8.525,50 8.525,50

sum 10.325,80 14,10 12,59 7,96 15,93 7.691,03 18.067,42 Table 3.: Habitat types and habitats of targeted species benefiting from action C.5.

Table below presents detailed description of the total value of sub-actions in relation to each of the project sites

Project site Total value of the sub-action (€)

Pohorje bogs 7.004 Zelenci 16.279 Planik 927 Gornji kal 1.994 Vrhe 1.670 Mura Petišovci 17.206 total 45.080

Reasons why this action is necessary: Article 12 in the Decree of Special Protected Areas (Natura 2000 areas) in Slovenia and the Operational Program – Program of Management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia (Set as a national annual priority for Nature and Biodiversity in LIFE+ 2009 call for proposals) state that management of Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia will be integrated into relevant sectoral management plans. In many cases, different sectors’ competences meet in wetland areas and sectoral disagreements are not unusual. Consequently, responsibilities are shifted from one sector to another which can lead to no management at all. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. The elaborated “Conservation guidelines” for project areas management will by the end of

this project be incorporated into relevant sectoral management plans: Six forestry management plans on Pohorje bogs project area as well as two fisheries management plans on Mura Petišovci and Gornji kal project area will be accepted by the competent authority.

2. Management of six project areas (4439,28ha) will be assured also after the project end, 3. Management of targeted habitats, namely Natural eutrophic lakes (1.668,20ha), Natural

dystrophic lakes and ponds (4,92ha), Active raised bogs (29,31ha), Transition mires and quaking bogs (62,77ha), Depressions on peat substrates of the Rynchosporion (1,8ha), Alkaline fens (16,8ha), Bog forest - Sphagnum spruce woods (380,29ha) as well as habitat of targeted species, namely Emys orbicularis (1.784,86ha), Liparis loeselii (14,26ha), Umbra krameri (686,51ha), Bombina bombina (1768,94ha), Triturus carnifex (1.768,94ha), Leucorrhinia pectoralis (29,52ha), Tetrao tetrix (1.324,80ha), Tetrao urogallus (8,525,5ha) will be assured.

4. Prepared “Conservation guidelines” for the Mura Petišovci project area will be used for the development of the detailed water management plans for smaller areas, according to the a water management plan on water areas of the Danube river and the Adriatic Sea,

5. The Management plan for Zelenci project area will be accepted by the Municipality of Kranjska Gora, which will assure long tem management of Zelenci Natura 2000 site also after the project end,

6. Nature Conservation contracts on Vrhe and Agro-environmental contracts and/or Nature Conservation contracts on Planik project area will be signed, which will assure long tem management of Vrhe and Planik Natura 2000 sites also after the project end,

7. Management of six project areas (4439,28ha) will be assured also after the project end, The process evolved, the elaboration and incorporation of “Conservation guidelines for project areas management” into relevant sectoral plans, will have a demonstrative value for future Natura 2000 site management in Slovenia. An integral systematic approach for standing

freshwater wetlands management in the Republic of Slovenia will be established which will assure a long term favourable conservation status of standing freshwater habitats and species of Community importance in Slovenia.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- C1d

D. Public awareness and dissemination of results

Detailed budget breakdown of actions D is provided in Table below.

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Table: Detailed budget of actions D.

ACTION D.1: NATIONAL AND LOCAL AUTHORITY EDUCATION PROJECT Description (what, how, where and when): This action includes workshops for district foresters, farming advisory services, Slovene Police, Nature environment inspectors and members of Fishery associations and presents a very important part of the project. The knowledge of the above mentioned local authorities, of the importance of wetland, as well as Natura 2000 network, its species and habitats as well as species’ and habitats’ requirements, the conservation measures and the appropriate management of wetlands, is crucial. The local authorities will then be able to pass the knowledge on to farmers, forest, land use owners, local fisherman as well as local community. We consider this action as a very important one. Through this action a more sustainable management of land surrounding project sites will be promoted, and the threat of land intensification / land abandonment addressed.

The Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation will, in co-operation with the Slovenian Forest Service, the Institute for water of the Republic of Slovenia and the Fishery Research Institute of Slovenia (all project beneficiaries) organize workshops for District foresters, Farming advisory services, Slovene Police, Nature environment Inspectors and members of fishing clubs. In Slovenia farming advisory service is under concession directly from the Ministry of agriculture, forestry and foods. They are the Local authority officially responsible for the implementation of Slovenian agricultural policy on filed. A firming advisor is allocated to each farmer and they provide all the necessary technical assistance to farmers and have therefore a significant effect on local farmers and their activities on filed. With the aim of significantly reducing the threat of Intensification of agriculture a series of workshops will be organised for farming advisors. The local farming advisors will then be equipped with the specific knowledge about the Natura 2000 targeted species’ and habitats’ requirements, their conservation measures and the appropriate management of areas surrounding Natura 2000 project sites with the aim of maintaining favourable conservation status of Natura 2000 species and habitats on project sites. They will then be able to advise local farmer of the most appropriate way of farming applied to the land in or surrounding the Natura 2000 project sites. Ministry of agriculture, forestry and foods is acquainted with the project and fully supporting it.

In Slovenia district foresters are employees of the Regional or Local offices of the Slovenian Forest Service. They are responsible for the preparation of the Forest unit and Sylviculture management plans and their implementation on filed. Local foresters issue a decree on every action taking place in the state or privately owned forests (namely cutting of timber, sylviculture measures and other construction activities (for example hydrology).

This project action target audience (namely District foresters, Farming advisory services, Slovene Police, Nature environment inspectors and members of fishing clubs) are the local authorities with the high potential influence on farmers, forest owners, fishermen and local community. For this targeted audience, at least 11 workshops (altogether) will be organized during the course of the project. The aim is to educate District foresters, Farming advisory services, Slovene Police, Nature environment Inspectors and members of fishing clubs about the importance of wetlands, Natura 2000 network, its habitats and species, their requirements and conservation measures as well as appropriate management of the area for the maintenance of favourable conservation status of species and habitats. In addition the project itself will be presented. Local biodiversity and nature conservation characteristics will be emphasised in the target areas. The local authorities will then be able to pass the knowledge on to farmers, forest, land use owners, local fisherman as well as local community. This is crucial. Through this action a more sustainable management of land in and surrounding project areas will be promoted, and the threat of land intensification / land abandonment addressed. Additionally, at least 7 meetings with mayors and municipalities’ councils will be organized to present up to date project activities to them, and to attain their support for our endeavours. The halls and other appropriate rooms for presentations at the project areas will be hired locally. The preparations for workshops will begin in September 2011, workshops will begin 2012 and will finish by the end of 2013. Reasons why this action is necessary: A lack of appropriate management of wetland in the past let to wetland loss and degradation. Local foresters, farming advisors, local fisheries experts, environment inspectors as well as Slovene Police have the potential to be very influential in informing and convincing farmers, forest owners, fishermen and local community about the importance of the wetland habitats and species and in addition present suitable management practices. Mayors and municipality councils are local decision makers, and very important in obtaining the support of the locals and consequently achieving the desired project results. Inspectorates and Slovene Police are also very important for establishing the nature conservation regimes on the wetlands around Slovenia. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. At least 11 workshops for district foresters, farming advisory services, Slovene Police,

Nature environment Inspectors and members of fishing clubs organized, 2. At least 7 meetings with mayors and municipalities’ councils organized, 3. The knowledge of local authorities: local foresters, farming advisors, local fisheries

experts, environment inspectors as well as Slovene Police about species’ and habitats’

requirements, the conservation measures, and the appropriate management of wetlands will be increased,

4. Local authorities will be aware of the LIFE+ project, its actions and results, 5. The local authorities will be equipped with the knowledge about the importance of wetland,

its species and habitats, as well as Natura 2000 network and this project life. They will be able to pass the knowledge on to the farmers, forest and land use owners, local fisherman and general public,

6. Appropriate (nature friendly) management of forests, agricultural land surrounding project sites, water bodies and fishing activities will be addressed.

ACTION D.2: GENERAL PUBLIC AND LOCAL COMMUNITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN Description (what, how, where and when): The general public and other interested parties, namely farmers and land owners are not sufficiently educated about the importance of wetlands and its “species’ and habitats’ as well as the appropriate management of wetlands for the assurance of the favourable conservation status of targeted wetland habitat and species. The aim it to raise the awareness the targeted audience (general public, farmers, land owners, students and teachers or other educating staff…) about the importance of the nature conservation issues raised above. In addition the project WETMAN, its activities and Natura 2000 network will be presented. Through these activities the awareness of the targeted audience will rise. For these purpose following events will be prepared: / 4 lectures for local farmers and foresters of Zelenci, Mura Petišovci and Planik areas will

be organized. They will explain the Slovenian Agro-Environmental Program (KOP) as a possible effective tool to accommodate the nature/eco friendly farming practises to Natura 2000 sites. Best practices examples of how to use this programme to contribute to the nature conservation will be shown. Local farming advisors and local forester will then be able to raise the knowledge of the targeted audience (local farmers, forest owners, fishermen) about the importance of proper management Natura 2000 sites if we’re to maintain favourable conservation of the Natura sites.

/ 3 press conferences – In the beginning of the project, a press conference will be organized to present project activities and goals. In addition another press conference will be organized at the end of the project to present the project results. During the project, field press conference will be organized to emphasize project activities. Institutes’ press conferences are well attended and several interviews and articles report about presented topic.

� 19 articles in national and local newspapers, 20 internet articles, 10 radio broadcasts on nature protection will be prepared and published: In order to inform the public about project activities and to promote nature conservation objectives of the project areas, articles in national and local newspapers will be prepared and published (on average 1 per project year per pilot area, all together at least 19 articles). During the first year, these articles will present the project details, including its planned activities and goals, while during the last year, project results will be described. Also at least 20 internet articles will be published. Particularly articles in local news papers, magazines and other media will raise the knowledge about importance of project areas and their proper management between local people. In addition a series of radio broadcasts on nature protection, with an emphasis on project areas, will be prepared (at least 10),

� 12 lectures for the general public and other interested groups, 12 lectures for elementary school children aged 10 – 15 years in schools in the vicinity of project areas (where relevant) will be organized and given,

� The project and the Natura 2000 network will be presented on the Nature and health fair (two times) in Ljubljana. At least 25.000 visitors attend the fair every year (in four days).

In order to monitor the effectiveness of the public awareness campaigns news clipping will be obtained. External costs include costs for 2 fairs, organization of press conferences, payable articles and news clipping, presentations and other awareness activities. Costs for fair attendance were calculated on the basis of the past experiences (real occurred costs), costs for students help was calculated on the basis their hours rates and multiply with number hours and of events. Costs for press conferences included the costs for bus hiring for field press conference and were defined on the basis of checking of prices at potential firms In addition student help was planned. Costs for payable articles were defined on the basis of normal prices for publication

of articles due to predicted length. Costs for news clipping for the project were calculated on the prices of news clipping due to number of key words which will be used for searching of project news clipping. These external costs are needed to assure the aims of the project action D. The action will be implemented thought the whole duration of the project. In order to be able to record press conferences, lectures and other events during the whole project a digital camcorder will be bought. Reasons why this action is necessary: The general public and different interested groups (farmers, land owners) are not sufficiently educated about the importance of wetland habitats’ and species’ importance and requirements and proper management practices. In addition unsustainable land management (intensification / land abandonment) is a threat which will also be addressed during this action. The aim it to raise the awareness the targeted audience (general public, farmers, land owners…) above the importance the project WETMAN, its activities, Natura 2000 network and appropriate management of wetlands and its surrounding areas to assure favourable conservation status of species and habitats of Community interest. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Following events prepared: 3 press conferences, 19 articles in national and local

newspapers, 20 internet articles, 10 radio broadcasts on nature protection, 12 lectures for the general public and other interested groups, 12 lectures for elementary school children, 4 lectures for local farmers Zelenci, Mura Petišovci and Planik areas, promotions of the LIFE+ project and of the Natura 2000 sites in the context of Narava – Zdravje (Nature – Health) fair in Ljubljana (4),

2. The general public, local community and all other interested parties will get up-to-date information on the project, its progress and results.

3. The awareness of general public, local community and all other interested parties about the importance of wetlands and its “species’ and habitats’ and the appropriate management of wetlands will be increased.

4. Environmental awareness and understanding the importance of wetlands amongst kids and scholars will improve.

ACTION D.3: PROMOTION MATERIAL Description (what, how, where and when): The action is needed to help promote the project its activities and goals. It is addressing »low public awareness« threat. The action is needed to inform local, national and international public about the importance of the wetland habitats and species and suitable management practices of the wetlands. The target group for this activity reaches from national and local authorities to general public and local community. Following project proportion material is foreseen

/ One project info-sheet in Slovenian language (2000 copies); English, German and Hungarian version only in PDF,

/ One project brochure on eight pages (Slovenian language (3000 copies) and English (1000 copies), German (500 copies) and Hungarian (500 copies),

/ 4 leaflets, describing project areas, each on four pages (Slovenian language (1000 copies), English (500 copies); German and Hungarian version only in PDF

/ 5 different promotion posters printed in 500 copies each, 8 different postcards (30.000 all together), 3 different T-shirts (300 pieces each, 900 together), a promotion folder and a paper bags (1000 pieces each, 2000 together), hats, umbrellas, calendars (900 pieces together)

In the beginning of the project, a project info-sheet will be printed in Slovenian language (2000 copies). English and German version will only be produced in PDF. It will summarize the main information on the project, project areas and species/habitats involved its actions, aims and goals. It will be done in first half year of the project. In the first half of the project, a project brochure on eight pages will be printed. The brochure will give detailed information on project areas, project targeted species/habitats and general information about the aim of the project, project action and its results and goals. Brochure will be printed in Slovenian language (3000 copies), English (1000 copies), German (500 copies) and Hungarian (500 copies). During the course of the project, 4 leaflets, describing project areas, each on four pages, will be printed, to give more detailed information on project habitats and species. Leaflets will be printed in Slovenian language (1000 copies), English (500 copies), German and Hungarian will only be produced as PDF. Two transportable promotional banners (100cm x 200cm) will be produced to support all actions D. The brochure and leaflets will be used for all awareness raising and project promotion activities. They will also be distributed to local tourist associations, tourist information centres/rooms, local municipalities, and to other interested parties. All the promotional material will also be available in PDF and will be printed (on a computer printer) when needed. They will facilitate the implementation of the project. Other promotion material: - 5 different promotion posters printed in 500 copies each - 8 different postcards (30.000 together) - 3 different T-shirts (300 pieces each, 900 together), - A promotion folder and a paper bags (1000 pieces each, 2000 together), - hats, umbrellas, calendars (900 pieces together). Editing, translating and designing of dissemination materials will be subcontracted. The costs for transportation of materials, printing of dissemination materials and others are reported

under Other costs in Form F7 (Page 65, Form F3 – External assistance costs of the Life+ Nature and Biodiversity Guidelines for Applicants 2008). The material will be used in all actions D. The target group for this activity reaches from national and local authorities to local people. In order to carry out this action A3 laser, colour, two-sided printer will be bought. To obtain good and suitable photographic material for brochures, leaflets, exhibition, postcards, and posters approximately 100 digital photographs or slides will be bought. All promotion material except Laymans report will be done till the end of May 2013. Reasons why this action is necessary: The action is needed to help disseminate project results. It is addressing »low public awareness« threat. The action is needed to inform local, national and international public about the project, its activities and goals. In addition importance of the wetland habitats and species and suitable management practices will be presented. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Following promotion material prepared:

/ One project info-sheet (Slovenian language (2000 copies), English, German and Hungarian version only in PDF,

/ One project brochure on eight pages (Slovenian language (3000 copies) and English (1000 copies), German (500 copies) and Hungarian (500 copies),

/ 4 leaflets, describing project areas, each on four pages (Slovenian language (1000 copies), English (500 copies); German and Hungarian version only in PDF

/ two transportable promotional banners (100cm x 200cm) / 5 different promotion posters printed in 500 copies each, 8 different postcards

(30.000 all together), 3 different T-shirts (300 pieces each, 900 together), a promotion folder and a paper bags (1000 pieces each, 2000 together), hats, umbrellas, calendars (900 pieces together)

2. Increased awareness of national and local authorities as well as general public and local community will enable us to achieve project aims and goals easier.

3. Increased awareness of targeted groups will aid in protecting of wetland habitats and species of Community interest at project areas, and also at other similar areas.

ACTION D.4: INFORMATION AND NOTICE BOARDS1 Description (what, how, where and when): The unsustainable visitors’ management presents a major threat for the favourable conservation status so of wetlands habitats and species on project areas. In the past increased uncontrolled human leisure activities (mass-hiking over bogs, uncontrolled frequent motorbike traffic) have been observed. Actual tramping of the habitat is directly damaging it and additional human presence is causing disturbance of targeted habitats and species. This action will contribute to our efforts to educate the general public (visitors, locals...) about the importance of the project areas, targeted animal and plant species of Community importance as well as, project action and goals. Boards will also promote Natura 2000 and indicate the EC financial support as required. They will also facilitate the implementation of the project. ��!�&��$��$�&,,) �!0�1��#2��

/ Complex info boards: Pohorje bogs (2), Zelenci (3), Planik (1), Gornji kal (1), Mura Petišovci (3),

/ Small info/notice boards: Zelenci (3), Gornji kal (2), Vrhe (1)

In addition wooden garbage baskets (Zelenci (10), Gornji kal (3)), and benches will be constructed (Zelenci (10), Gornji kal (3));

A coordinating beneficiary will place information boards in all project areas (Pohorje bogs, Zelenci, Mura Petišovci, Planik, Vrhe and Gornji kal). Every board will provide information on the LIFE+ project activities, project area and about Natura 2000 network, while information about the local project areas’ characteristics, endangered species and habitats, etc, will be presented as appropriate for every area individually. The boards will be placed at carefully selected, easily accessible locations where the majority of hikers and other visitors pass by. Each board will bear the LIFE logo to indicate the EC financial contribution to the project, and the Natura 2000 logo to inform that this project contributes to the nature conservation in Slovenia as required by the EU directives. The preparations for placing the info boards will begin in the year 2011, also the placing of one info/notice or complex board for each project area will be done till the end July 2012. All remaining placing of the boards will be done till the end of May 2014. Pohorje bogs:

- 2 complex info boards, - 2 traffic signs on forest roads;

Zelenci: - 3 complex info boards (notice board included), - 3 guidance boards (small info/notice boards) - 10 wooden garbage baskets, - 10 wooden benches;

Vrhe: - 1 small info/notice board;

Planik: - 1 complex info board (notice board included);

1 All the projects info/notice/guidance boards are in the output indicators Table 5 (Part 3 – Awareness

raising and communication) accounted together (not only notice boards as it is written in table). This is because we followed the instructions that we should not add lines or columns or modify the format of the tables – According to the Guidelines for Applicants 2009.

Gornji kal: - 1 complex info board; - 2 small info/notice boards, - 3 wooden garbage baskets, - 3 wooden benches;

Mura Petišovci: - 3 complex info boards (notice board included);

Placing, editing, translating and designing of information, notice, guidance boards, traffic signs, wooden garbage baskets and wooden benches will be subcontracted. Reasons why this action is necessary: The unsustainable visitors’ management presents a major threat for the favourable conservation status so of wetlands habitats and species on project areas. In the past increased uncontrolled human leisure activities (mass-hiking over bogs, uncontrolled frequent motorbike traffic) have been observed. Actual tramping of the habitat is directly damaging it and additional human presence is causing disturbance of targeted habitats and species. This action will contribute to our efforts to educate the general public (visitors, locals...) about the project areas, targeted animal and plant species of Community importance as well as, project action and goals. Boards will also promote Natura 2000 and indicate the EC financial support as required. They will also facilitate the implementation of the project. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Following items constructed:

/ Complex info boards: Pohorje bogs (2), Zelenci (3), Planik (1), Gornji kal (1), Mura Petišovci (3),

/ Small info/notice boards: Zelenci (3),), Vrhe (1), Gornji kal (2), / Traffic signs on forest roads: Pohorje bogs (2), / Wooden garbage baskets (Zelenci (10), Gornji kal (3)), and benches constructed

(Zelenci (10), Gornji kal (3)), 2. Public awareness of visitors and locals will be raised and the knowledge on the importance

of the wetlands and its habitats and species be enhanced.

ACTION D.5: THE PROJECT’S WEB PAGE AND PROJECT GRAPHIC IDENTITY Description (what, how, where and when): As a vital part of the project’s publicity, a regularly updated web page will be created. It will contain not only the basic project information, but it will also give the interested parties a deep insight into the project activities. The web page will also serve to raise the general public’s environmental and nature protection awareness. This web page will ensure three major goals: presentation of the project and its progress, dissemination of its results and raising the environmental and nature protection awareness among the general public. The project’s graphic identity will be also developed. It will serve to uniform all project promotion material, and to help the project to be easily recognized among public. The web page will be updated at least 6 times a year with new activities that would be undertaken in last two months. The language of this web page will be Slovene; abstracts will be prepared in English and Hungarian. The translation of these abstracts into foreign languages will be subcontracted. The web page will be created in the first half of 2011 and fully accessible on internet till the end of July 2011. To promote the web page as an easily accessible and efficient project promotion tool, its http address will be published in all publications connected with the project, in all articles describing the project, at all public presentations, and in other activities for rising public awareness and activities for dissemination of project results. The project team members will have extra business cards for the duration of the project, and the project web site address will be written on them, too. The project’s graphic identity will be developed. It will serve to uniform all project promotion material, and to help the project to be easily recognized among public. Web page and project’s graphic identity will be developed page by a subcontractor. The project’s graphic identity will be designed till the end of May 2011. Reasons why this action is necessary: Besides keeping the prompt update on project progress, this action is aimed at addressing the »low public awareness« threat. The action is needed to inform the local, national and international public about the project activities, and the endangered species and habitats. The action is needed to help disseminating the project results. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Information about the project, along with its actions, aim and results as well as the

importance of the NATURA 2000 network will be widely assessable. 2. The published information will raise the environmental and nature protection awareness

about the NATURA 2000 as well as the importance of wetland habitats and species of community importance and show a good example of nature conservation in practice.

ACTION D.6: PROJECT DOCUMENTARY FILM AND 3 TV SPOTS Description (what, how, where and when): There are currently no available educational spots targeting conservation of freshwater wetlands habitats and species of Community importance in Slovenia. This action is needed to inform the national, local as well as general public about the importance of wetlands, its habitats and species as well as to promote Natura 2000 network and the project WETMAN. The aim is to raise awareness of general public as well as national, local authorities of the importance of wetland habitats and species of community importance as well as importance of Natura 2000 network and nature protection for the future generations. The educational program group on the RTV (the Slovene national TV) will prepare and broadcast 25-30 minutes long documentary film about wetlands’ ecological importance, biodiversity and proper wetland management activities. The main emphasis will be given to the project areas, their habitats and species and project’s actions. Documentary will be broadcasted within educational program for general audience (5-99 years old) on first and second national TV program and on events (fairs, Habitat Day, etc – at least 3 times). Additionally, 3 (3-5 minutes long) TV spots will be produced. They will be broadcasted at least 20 times (4 times each) during the so called program gaps at different times on both RTV Slovenia’s channels and on other events (fairs, Habitat Day, etc – at least 3 times). All films (the documentary and the 3 TV shots) will be prepared in the format which can be widely used in all awareness rising activities. They will also be accessible through the project web site as well as the Institutes’ web site. All the films will be prepared till the end of May 2013. Producing the documentary film and the TV spots (music, scenography, directors, text readers and organizer for the documentary film and the TV spots, etc.) will be done by subcontractors. All other work will be done by RTV and other beneficiaries. Reasons why this action is necessary: There are currently no available educational spots targeted at conservation of freshwater wetlands habitats and species of community importance in Slovenia. This action is needed to inform the national, local and also the international public about the importance of wetlands, its habitats and species as well as the project. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: RTV Slovenia Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Following promotional material prepared:

• One 25-30 minutes long documentary film prepared and broadcasted at least 3 times

• three (3-5 minutes long) TV spots prepared and broadcasted at least 20 times 2. Environmental and nature protection awareness of general pubic about the Natura 2000

network as well as the importance of wetland habitats and species of community importance will rise.

ACTION D.7: LAYMAN’S REPORT Description (what, how, where and when): With this activity project and its results will be disseminated and promoted to general public in Slovenia and abroad. Before the end of the project the Layman’s report will be produced as a two language publication (Slovene and English language) (500 copies). Reasons why this action is necessary: The aim is to disseminate and promote the project, its results and the LIFE + Programme to general public. It will also be used for the promotion of project, its results and the LIFE + Programme at conferences and other events in Slovenia as well as abroad. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. One Laymans report prepared. 2. Project and its results disseminated and promoted to general public in Slovenia and

abroad.

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- C1e

E. Overall project operation and monitoring

ACTION E.1: PROJECT CO-ORDINATION AND MANAGEMENT

Description (what, how, where and when): Every project site will have its Project area coordinator. She/he will be responsible for the coordination of the works carried out on each project site. For these tasks five employees of the Institutes of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Regional Units will be employed by the project coordinating beneficiary. They will be specifically seconded to the project on the part time basis. One representative of the Regional Unit Maribor will cover project sites Pohorje bogs and Vrhe, in addition one representative of the Regional Unit Maribor will cover project site Mura–Petišovci. One representative of the Regional Unit Kranj will cover project site Zelenci with the additional representative of the Regional Unit Kranj covering Planik. Project site Gornji kal will be coverer by our employee of the Regional unit Novo mesto. All of them are acquainted with the nature conservation issues on project sites through their past work. With this structure the expertise to successfully carry out field actions will be assured. When the project WETMAN starts, a special contract or legal decision will be signed with them, to work part time on a project as Project area coordinator.

To insure the quality of results the Quality board will revise project’s mid-term and final results, and report on them to the project manager. In addition the will meet every six month and will examine the work and results from the scientific point of view. The aim is to assure internal evaluation of the quality of project activities and if needed propose possible solutions. The Quality board will consist of one representative from each of projects beneficiary expert organizations (namely: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, Fisheries Research Institute of Slovenia, State Forestry Service o Slovenia). These project beneficiaries are national authorities responsible for specific sectoral field of expertise. If required, the project manager will consult the Quality board.

The project manager, who will be employed on a full-time basis by project beneficiary the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation, will carry out the general project execution control and coordination, including the coordination of local-coordinators (senior consultants) who will precisely follow the project activities for each project area. The proposed project manager has experiences in managing the LIFE III - Nature project, reference number LIFE04NAT/SI/000240, title: Natura 2000 in Slovenia – Management Models and Information System, duration: 1.1.2005-31.12.2007. To assist the Project manager, an administrative support employee will be employed. For successful project administrative support also other support will be subcontracted if needed. A Scientific coordinator (a senior consultant expert) will be provided (part time) by the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation. The scientific coordinator will be responsible for the scientific coordination of the project, supervision of the work projects preparatory actions, and the monitoring. All the scientific questions arising from the project and questions from the Nature conservation practices council will also be addressed to this expert. She /he will be specifically seconded to the project on the part time basis. All the financial questions arising from the project, including the project-related coordination of the subcontracted Institute’s accounting service, will be addressed by the project financial coordinator (on a part time basis). Institutes accounting service will be subcontracted as an extra support for the project finances registering and control.

A Steering Committee will comprise of representatives of beneficiaries. It will seek consensus on project direction, resolve any administrative or contractual issues, including partnership instability, decide on the management issues, including technical, dissemination, exploitation, financial, planning and control matters. If one of the partners show weak cooperation in matters where their contribution to the project was planned crucial, the Steering Committee will decide on precautions. The project manager will on regular basis consult with the director of the Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation (coordination beneficiary).

Management Chart:

The main project co-ordination tasks of the project staff include: - overall project management and planning, - project finance planning and management, - organization and implementation of activities, - reporting, - project team communication, exchange of information, internal meetings, - coordinating the joint efforts of all beneficiaries and external assistance teams, - overseeing the preparation of the technical documentation and taking care that all

relevant permissions will be obtained from the authorities responsible, - evaluating project execution, results, and the achievement of goals, - purchase of all equipment, - project administration;

To support the work of the project coordination team following equipment will be boughtone laptop with docking station and software, one digital camera and one server version of project managing software. Monitoring indicators of the financial part of the project implementation – conformity to Standard Administrative Provisions – will be verified by external independent financial audits of the beneficiary’s and partners’ financial documents. Audit costs are included into external costs category (subcontractor). The action will be implemented thought the whole project. At least one International conference per year on nature conservation topics will be attended in order to present the project activities and results (articles/posters). Reasons why this action is necessary: The project co-ordination activities are necessary to ensure prompt and good implementation of the project objectives. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): Project management and coordination will assure prompt and good implementation of the project goals, actions and objectives, according to the project proposal.

ACTION E.2: PROJECT MONITORING AND EVALUATION Description (what, how, where and when): Monitoring and evaluation of the success of field actions on conservation status of targeted species and habitats is an essential part of each project. In order to be able to evaluate the effects of the management on conservation status of species and habitats suitable practical indicators, standardised field methods and the evaluation criteria must firstly be clearly defined. Limited or no scientific data are currently available on status of habitat types and species of Community interest on chosen project areas. Initial surveys of fauna, flora and habitat types will be carried out in order to be able to assess current status of species and habitats on project areas. There are two aims of the initial surveys: a.) One part, which can be considered to be preparatory, is that the Initial survey reports will

indicate: � possible timetables for the improvement of hydrological conditions taking into account

specific ecological demands of species and habitats. These will be combined with the data of the actual hydrological conditions of every area, to choose the optimal time interval for field activities.

� possible timetables for the removal of overgrowth field actions. The exact timing of the field action will be chosen on the basis of hydrological conditions of the areas.

� possible timetables for the fish-out of invasive fish species. They will take into consideration species’ and habitats’ ecological demands and hydrological conditions of the area

� reference values of the favourable conservation status, indicators of the favourable conservation status of habitats/species and all aspects related to the management of project areas (e.g. area description, historical land use analysis, statement of objectives, long term and short term goals, feasibility, constraints, identifications of the stakeholders involved, list of management measures, cost estimates).

b.) In addition the initial surveys of status of project areas (hydrology, water quality) as well as status of fauna, flora and habitat types (see detailed list below) will provide reference data to which the data of the standardized field surveys (carried out after the realization of every concrete field action) can be referred to. This is crucial for the assessment of the effects of field actions on targeted species and habitats. The later is the part of the aim to monitor the effect of project field actions’ (C actions) on targeted species and habitats and asses their effectiveness.

Surveys will be orientated and conducted in a way which will enable us to later identify suitable practical indicators, standardised field methods and the evaluation criteria. These will be identified in series of preparatory workshops for each project area. The working groups (for each project area) will consist of habitat and species specialists as well as land management experts. The knowledge will be joined from three different viewpoints. Working groups will meet at 3 workshops which will be held in office as well as at project areas in field. The working groups will identify indicators of favourable conservation status for targeted species (population and habitat of a species), habitats (structure, function and typical species) and set standardised field methods and relevant evaluation criteria for the assessment of the effects of field actions on targeted species and habitats. The monitoring of the effect of project field actions’ (C actions) on targeted species and habitats (repeated assessments) will be later carried out on the basis of the outcome of the preparatory series of workshops. The monitoring will evaluate the effectiveness of the concrete conservation actions.

At least one standardised field survey will be carried out at each project area after the realisation of every concrete field action. After the survey, the members of working teams for each project area will meet again and discuss their observations and assessments at two training workshops. The aim is to link separate assessments from different fields of expertise in an overall conservation assessment for the effect of the management. The final outcome of this action will be an assessment of the project field actions effectiveness on conservation status of targeted species and habitats for all project areas. The best practices on sustainable management for conservation of wetlands species and habitats will be identified, which has an invaluable impact for future management of wetland Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia. A detailed list of planed surveys: Pohorje bogs:

- Forest birds species: Black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), - Active raised bogs 7110*, - Bog forest (Sphagnum spruce woods) 91D0*, - Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds 3160,

Zelenci: - Water analysis, - Alkaline fens 7230, - Transition mires and quaking bogs 7140, - Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion 7150, - Hydrology study;

Vrhe: - Alkaline fens 7230, - Fen Orchid (Liparis loeselii), - Hydrology study;

Planik: - Fen Orchid Liparis loeselii;

Gornji kal: - European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis), - Hydrology study, - Fish species;

Mura Petišovci: - European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis), - White-faced Darter Dragonfly (Leucorrhinia pectoralis), - European Mudminnow (Umbra krameri), - European Fire-bellied Toad (Bombina bombina) and Italian Crested Newt (Triturus

carnifex), - Natural euthrophic lakes 3150, - Hydrology study.

The monitoring activities and the conservation assessments will be carried out by the coordinating beneficiary, the associated beneficiaries, and the contracted external experts. The monitoring of the effect of the project action on the status of species and habitats will be carried out by different parties:

- monitoring of bird species at the Pohorje bogs project area will be conducted by The Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation

- The monitoring of invasive fish species and of U. krameri will be carried out by the associated beneficiary Fishery Research Institute of Slovenia.

- The monitoring of the extent and the ecological conditions of bog forests will be made by Slovenia Forestry Service.

- The hydrology monitoring will be made by the Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia which is an associated beneficiary.

- The monitoring of water quality in the Zelenci project area will be carried out by a subcontractor, in order to determine the success of fertilizers pollution reduction.

- The monitoring of other targeted species and habitats will be carried out by contracted experts.

All costs for monitoring on effectiveness of C actions were calculated with help of potential external providers. The potential providers on the basis of which the preliminary costs of the external costs of the monitoring surveys (initial and the survey after the filed action take place) were calculated: Forestry Institute of Slovenia-GIS (bogs, mires and fens), Centre for Cartography of Flora and Fauna-CKFF (pond turtle, water habitat, amphibians), Slovenian Academy of Science and Arts-SAZU (pond turtle, water habitat, amphibians, fens). The lower costs were later included into the action costs calculations. Prices for water analysis were checked with the Institute for Health Protection of the Republic of Slovenia. These external costs are urgently needed if we’re to access the effectiveness of the project field action on the field. The initial survey activities will begin in 2011. The initial report will be elaborated to the end of March 2012. The monitoring activities will be carried out from the beginning of March 2013 and till the end of August 2014 at all six project areas, for the listed species or habitats: The equipment necessary to carry out this action will be purchased by coordinating beneficiary in the beginning of the project: 1x car, 4x binoculars, 3x digital camera with tripod, one telescope, 6x GPS with software (digital cartography). Reasons why this action is necessary: No or limited data are currently available on status of species and habitats of Community Interest for each project area. In addition there are currently no standardised field methods available for the assessment of the effect of the management on the status of the habitats and species. In order to identify suitable management practises monitoring of the effect of project action on favourable conservation status of targeted species and habitats of Community Interest for each project area will be carried out. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Up-to-date status of selected habitats and species for project areas will be evaluated, 2. Standardised field methods and evaluation criteria set for the assessment of the suitability

of the site management, 3. Monitoring of the effects of field actions on targeted species and habitat will be carried out

on the basis of the standardised method, 4. Project actions will be evaluated to assess the suitability of the site management, and

assure the favourable conservation status of targeted species and habitats.

ACTION E.3.: REVISION OF THE “CONSERVATION GUIDELINES” Description (what, how, where and when): “Conservation guidelines” for project area management will be revised before the end of the project, on the basis of the knowledge gained through the duration of the project. This will be carried out form October 2014 until February 2015. Reasons why this action is necessary: Knowledge about project areas, its species and habitats requirements, as well as project area management will be gained during the project. This will be incorporated into revised “Conservation guidelines”. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): Conservation guidelines for project areas management will be improved.

ACTION E.4.: AUDIT Description (what, how, where and when): An external auditor of the project’s financial reports will be subcontracted on the basis of the public tender.

Reasons why this action is necessary: According to LIFE+ Nature and Biodiversity, Guidelines for the application 2009 an external audit should be implemented. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): Project financial report will be revised.

ACTION E.5.: AFTER-LIFE CONSERVATION PLAN Description (what, how, where and when): Long term management for the maintenance of the Favourable conservation status of species and habitats of community importance for all project areas will be presented together with the responsibilities assigned to assure long term conservation project wetland areas. In addition experiences gained trough projects activities: preparation of nature conservation management plan for Zelenci project area, nature conservation contracts at Vrhe and Planik project areas, Agro-Environmental measures in Planik project area, Forestry management pl an at Pohorje bogs area, Fisheries management plans at Gornji kal and Mura Petišovci area and Detailed water management plan at Mura Petišovci area will be presented in the document called” After-LIFE Conservation plan. The “Conservation plan” will assure that each organisation/person will bare a clear responsibility for a long term management of project areas to assure a life after LIFE. The preparation of The “After LIFE Conservation Plan” will start in the second half of 2013 and will be produced by the end of the year 2014. It will give details regarding what actions will be carried out, when, by whom and with what sources. Costs for this action are 0€.


It is needed to assure long-term favourable status of targeted species and habitat types on the project areas. Beneficiary responsible for implementation: Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Expected results (quantitative information when possible): 1. Identification of manager and determination of long-term way of management on bogs,

water bodies (ponds, oxbows) and fen orchid habitats, 2. Long-term solution for wetlands conservation and management in Slovenia;

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- C2

DELIVERABLE PRODUCTS OF THE PROJECT

Name of the Deliverable Code of the associated action Deadline

Project’s graphical identity guide D6 01/05/2011 2 transportable promotional banners (PDF file) D3 01/05/2011 Promotion folder D3 01/05/2011 Paper bags D3 01/05/2011 One Project info-sheet (Slovenian version in paper copy, English, German and Hungarian language as PDF)

D3 30/06/2011

Project brochure on eight pages (Slovenian, English, German and Hungarian language in paper copy)

D3 01/10/2011

3 different T-shirts D3 01/10/2011 Hats D3 01/10/2011 Umbrellas D3 01/10/2011 4 different project area leaflets, each on four pages (for project areas Pohorje bogs, Zelenci, Gornji kal, Mura Petišovci); Slovenian and English version in paper copy, German and Hungarian language as PDF

D3 01/01/2012

3 different promotion posters (PDF file) D3 01/01/2012 8 different postcards D3 01/01/2012 Calendars D3 01/01/2012 Report of the Initial survey of project areas E2 31/03/2012 “Conservation guidelines for project area management” for six project areas

A1 31/05/2012

Building license for the construction of gravel beerier on Zelenci project area obtained

C1 31/05/2012

Technical documentations for hydrology field actions on project sites Pohorje bogs, Zelenci, Gornji kal, Vrhe, Mura Petišovci

C1 30/06/2012

TV documentary film D7 31/05/2013 3 shot TV spots D7 31/05/2013 Management database (www link and password) A1 31/08/2014 Management plan for Zelenci project area A1 31/10/2014 Sectoral management plan - fishery management plan for project area Gornji kal

A1 31/10/2014

Sectoral management plan - fishery management plan for project area Mura Petišovci

A1 31/10/2014

Sectoral management plan – 6x forestry unit management plans GGN GGE covering the project area Pohorje bogs

A1 31/10/2014

Experts groundwork on Mura Petišovci for development of the proposal of wider corresponding water management plan

A1 31/10/2014

Nature conservation contract signed by the competent authority for project area Vrhe

A1 31/10/2014

Nature Conservation contracts on Planik project area, if Agro-environmental contracts proof to be insufficient

A1 31/10/2014

Reports on Monitoring and evaluation of the success of field actions on conservation status of targeted species and habitats

E2 31/10/2014

After-LIFE Conservation Plan E3 31/12/2014

All articles, radio broadcasts, lectures to local media, to agricultural experts, to schools published/lectured

D2 31/01/2015

Laymans report D3 31/01/2015

MILESTONES OF THE PROJECT

Name of the Milestone Code of the associated

action Deadline

Nomination of project staff E.1. 01/02/2011 Press conference organised D.2. 30/04/2011 WEB site accessible on internet D.6. 31/07/2011 Initial surveys of project areas finished E2 15/03/2012 Land in Zelenci project area purchased B.1. 31/03/2012 Visitors surveillance on Pohorje bogs project area established

C4.3 31/03/2012

Land in Zelenci project area purchased B.1. 31/03/2012 “Conservation guidelines” elaborated for six project areas

A.1. 01/07/2012

New footpath built and on Pohorje bogs project area C.4.1 30/11/2012 Watching tower on Pohorje bogs project area renewed C.4.1 30/11/2012 New footpath on Zelenci project area constructed C.4.2 30/11/2012 Brochure, leaflets and other promotion material - draft D.3. 31/01/2013 TV documentary and 5 TV shots filmed D.7. 31/01/2013 Management plan for Zelenci project area - draft C.5. 31/02/2013 Nature conservation contract for project area Vrhe - draft C.5. 31/02/2013 Sectoral management plan - fishery management plan for project area Gornji kal- draft

C.5. 31/02/2013

Sectoral management plan - fishery management plan for project area Mura Petišovci- draft

C.5. 31/02/2013

Experts groundwork on Mura Petišovci for development of the detailed proposal of water management plan - draft

C.5. 31/02/2013

Sectoral management plan–6x forestry unit management plans GGN GGE for project area Pohorje bogs- draft;

C.5. 31/02/2013

Invasive fish species fished out at project areas C3.1., C3.2 30/09/2013 Hydrology conditions on project areas re-established or revitalised

C.1. 30/11/2013

Info centre Šumik established D.5. 30/11/2013 Overgrowth removed from project areas C.2. 31/03/2014 All info/notice, guidance boards, traffic signs, etc. placed in all six project areas

D.4. 31/05/2014

Monitoring activities finished E.2. 31/08/2014 After-LIFE Wetlands Conservation Plan - draft E.5. 31/09/2014 Management plan for Zelenci project approved C.5. 31/10/2014 Fishery management plan for project area Gornji kal approved

C.5. 31/10/2014

Fishery management plan for project area Mura Petišovci approved

C.5. 31/10/2014

6x forestry unit management plans GGN GGE for project area Pohorje bogs approved

C.5. 31/10/2014

Nature conservation contract for project area Vrhe signed

C.5. 31/10/2014

If Agro-environmental contracts proof to be insufficient Nature Conservation contracts on Planik project area approved

C.5. 31/10/2014

Experts groundwork on Mura Petišovci for development of the detailed proposal of corresponding water management plan prepared

C.5.. 31/10/2014

Revised “Conservation Recommendations” prepared E.3. 15/01/2015

ACTIVITY REPORTS FORESEEN

Please indicate the deadlines for the following reports: • Inception Report (to be delivered within 9 months after the project start); • Progress Reports n°1, n°2 etc. (if any; to ensure that the delay between consecutive

reports does not exceed 18 months); • Mid-term Report with payment request (only for project longer than 24 months) • Final Report with payment request

Type of report Deadline

Inception Report 30/09/2011

Mid-term Report with payment request 30/11/2012

Progress Reports n°1 01/02/2014

Final Report with payment request 01/05/2015

LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity 2009- C3

TIMETABLE

Action 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Number/name I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV I II III IV I II

A. Preparatory actions, elaboration of management plans and/or action plans :

A1-Elaboration of CG x x x x x x x A2-Permit procedure x x x x x

B. Purchase/lease of land and/or rights :

B1-Land purchase x x x x x

C. Concrete conservation actions :

C1-Hydrology x x x x x x x x x C2-Overgrowth x x x x x x x x x C3-Invasive species x x x x x x x C4-Habitat protection x x x x x x x x x x x x x C5-CG into plans x x x x x x x x x x x C6-Car x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

D. Public awareness and dissemination of results :

D1-N&L authority AC x x x x x x x x x D2-GP AC x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x D3-Project promotion x x x x x x x x x x x x x D4-Boards x x x x x x x x D5-Info canter Šumik x x x x x x x x x x x D6-Project www x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x D7-TV material x x x x x x x x D8-Layman’s report x

E. Overall project operation and monitoring:

E1-Project management x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x E2-Project evaluation x x x x x x x x x x x x E3-CG revision x x E4-Audit x x E5-After LIFE x x x x

CG - “Conservation guidelines” N&L authority AC - National and local authority awareness campaign GP AC - General public awareness campaign

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