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LIFE08NAT/EE/000257
Pogress Report Covering the project activities from 01/01/2012 to 31/12/2012
Reporting Date
01/03/2013
Securing Leucorrhinia pectoralis and Pelobates fuscus in the northern distribution area in Estonia and Denmark
Data Project
Project location Estonia, Denmark
Project start date: 01/01/2010
Project end date: 31/12/2014
Total budget € 1 050 430
EC contribution: € 525 215
(%) of eligible costs 50 %
Data Beneficiary
Name Beneficiary Environmental Board
Contact person Mr Voldemar Rannap
Postal address Narva mnt 7a, EE-15172, Tallinn, Estonia
Telephone + 372 5341 1962
Fax: + 372 627 2182
E-mail [email protected]
Project Website www.keskkonnaamet.ee/dragonlife
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1. Table of contents
2. Executive summary 2
2.1 General progress 2
2.2 Perspectives on achieving the project’s goals 4
2.3 Problems encountered 4
3. Administrative part 6
3.1 Project management 6
3.2 Organigram of the project team and the project management structure 6
3.3 Delivered reports 6
3.4 Changes 6
4. Technical part 7
4.1 Actions 7
4.2 Project progress 2010-2012 and envisaged progress until next report 23
4.3 Impact of the project on the species 24
4.4 Indirect impact of the project 25
4.5 Outside LIFE 25
5. Annexes
5.1 Organigram of the project team and the project management structure
2
2. Executive summary
2.1 General progress
Action Total Status 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Planned 31.12.2012 Planned Planned Planned Planned Planned
A Preparatory actions and management plans
1 Pond form 1 1 1
Evaluation of breeding ponds of target species
100% 100% 50% 100%
Data analyse and report
1 1 1
2 Creation of an international network
5 X 3 X 1 X 2 X 3 X 4 X 5 X
Site visits 4 2 1 2 3 4
3
Favourable conservation.status criteria of target species
2 2 2
4 Action plans 2 2
5 Guidelines for eradication of invasive alien aquatic species
1 1 1
Folder on invasive alien species
1000 1000
C Concrete conservation actions
1 Restoration of water bodies
113 37 14 41 79 105 113
2 Creation of new water bodies
64 25 8 21 44 58 64
3 Management of terrestrial habitats
100% 35% 30% 60% 100%
4 Reserve populations for P.fuscus (number of tadpoles)
14000 10061 1400 4200 9800 12600 14000
5 Eradication of invasive alien species
12 1 12
D Public awareness and dissemination of results
1 Identification key on Estonian amphibians
2000 2000 2000
Booklet on dragonflies 2000 2000
School program 1 1
School network 1 1
2 Guided tours 45
18
10 21 32 43 45
3
Action Total Status 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Planned 31/08/2010 Planned Planned Planned Planned Planned
3 Workshops 3 2 1 2 3
Final Seminar 1 1
4 Exhibitions 4 1 1 2 4
5 Folders and information boards
Project folder 2000 2000 2000
Folder on L.pectoralis 2900 1500 2900
Folder on P.fuscus 2900 1500 2900
Infoboards 17 8 9 17
6 Best Practice Guidelines
1000 1000
7 Web Page 5 X 3 X 1 X 2 X 3 X 4 X 5 X
8 Layman´s Report 950 950
E Overall project operation and monitoring
1 Project management 5 X 2 X 1 X 2 X 3 X 4 X 5 X
Reports 4 3 1 2 3 4
Final Report (2015) 1
2 Monitoring of the effects of project actions
61 61 15 61
3 Networking with other projects
5 X 3 X 1 X 2 X 3 X 4 X 5 X
4 After LIFE conservation plans
7 7
X – shows the years when the works under certain activity are planned and the years when the activity began and is in progress (used in case the result is not countable or the total result is countable but it is not determined in the project. E2 - ponds that had been restored/dug in 2010 and 2011 and inventoried in 2011 and 2012; total planned shows number of all ponds restored/dug in 2010 – 2011. C1 & C2 – the number of the planned ponds are presented according to the revised plan (the changes are agreed in principle by the Commission, letters no 695156 dated 11.06.2012 and no 971610 dated 14.08.2012). The plan for each year is calculated on the basis of percent, that is same for every year as it was in the application.
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2.2 Perspectives on achieving the project’s goals
Based on what has been done already and after having analyzed the main goals set in the project
proposal as well as the schedule, general volume and budgets of actions, we assure that
achieving the objectives outlined in the project proposal is realistic and feasible.
2.3 Problems encountered
● Although most project actions have progressed as planned, pond restoration, creation of new
ponds and management of terrestrial habitats are behind schedule by approximately a year, due
to various reasons (see explanations below). We are convinced that it is feasible to complete
these actions in the remaining two years. However, it will no longer be possible to assess project
results both in terms of target species and for the course of the project generally, as many of the
ponds are too new for that.
After negotiations with partners we have come to the conclusion that it is pertinent to extend the
project’s duration by about 10 months. This will allow us to do the necessary fieldwork also in
the spring of 2015, then to analyze the fieldwork and finally to publish the results in project
reports and publications.
● We also expect the we have to increase volume of the budget category external assistance (see
table and explanation in Chapter 5.1 Cost incurred). This will be covered from two sources: the
amounts expected to be left over from other categories and increasing the co-financing by
Danish municipalities, which the benificiaries are working on right now. We are aware that
modifying budget categories substantially requires an agreement from the Commission and a
corresponding project modification.
In case we have to increase volume of external assistance substantially we will combine both
modifications into one application. We expect to be able to do this in the second half of 2013
once it is clear whether or not it is necessary to modify the project budget as well.
● In 2012 we were not able to restore or dig any ponds in Estonia. Carrying out actions C1 and
C2 failed in 2012 mainly due to changes in the procurement procedure and due to the market
situation.
The type of procurement procedure used (open procurement, simplified procedure) depends on
the expected price. The cost of the excavation works planned under the project ranged from
10,000 to 40,000 euros in Estonia, and this called for organizing a simplified procurement
procedure.
1) As of 2012, procurements by simplified procedure must also pass through the State Public
Procurement Register (while before the corresponding notice had to be published only in the
media). This has drawn out the process significantly (to a minimum of 35 days compared to the 7
days that were needed before).
2) While before companies submitted their tenders by e-mail, following the announcement in the
media, now they must pass through the electronic procedure of the procurement register. As the
process is quite complicated, many small companies operating locally in rural areas decide not to
participate.
3) There is not allowed to change procurement conditions (incl number of ponds) during and
after the procurement which means that all needed permits for each site must to be obtained
before. As we got last permits in spring and summer we managed to carry out only one
procurement process. The offered prices were unreasonably high and we did not have time to
repeat procurement in 2012 (see clause 1).
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4) The companies can be devided into small and large ones. New procurement procedure system
causes the situation which do not work very well in our case.
Large companies are usually interested in large-scale procurements. The work required by the
project is relatively small and dispersed, and thus not attractive to large companies. They have
also high prices – in our experience even 3–4 times higher than the prices of small companies.
Small companies are mainly operating locally in rural areas and getting work straight from local
people and companies. Often they are also subcontracted by large companies. As long as there is
enough work, small companies are not motivated to participate in procurements.
5) In 2012 Estonia had significant funds to use from selling CO2 quotas. This considerably
increased construction (including excavation) prices and diminished the choice of service
providers, as many were working at full capacity.
At the beginning of 2013 we will launch a new procurement. We are planning to begin digging
new ponds in July and restoring the existing ones in September. We expect the work to be
successful based on the following: we have the all necessary permits for most project sites,
which allows for launching the procurement at the beginning of the year and small companies
have began to participate in procurements because experts foresee less work in construction
market (it means also lower prices in general).
● In Denmark we have (now we can say in most cases had) a problem with pond
restoration/digging (Actions C1 and C2) and terrestrial habitat management (C3) in 4
municipalities (Hillerød, Hjørring, Vejle and Gribskov) and only two ponds were restored and
surroundings of 3 ponds were cleaned in 2012. It took much more time than we expected to get
the permits. At the end of the year (mainly in December) Hillerød, Hjørring and Gribskov
municipalities got many of needed permissions. At the beginning of 2013 the work started in
Hillerød and in January 6 ponds were restored and 3 piles were created. Work will continue now
in other municipalities.
In Vejle the decision on the number of the ponds was made in 2012. After that the permit
applications for pond digging and piles were submitted and the permits are expected to be issued
in spring 2013 and we hope to start with the work in autumn 2013.
Project site No of ponds acc. to the application
Revised plan
Permissions obtained
Done 02/2013
Target Permissions obtained
Done 02/2013
C1 + C2 C3
Hjørring 5 6 6 0 15 ha 9,8 ha 9,8
Vejle 10 5 0 0 8 piles 0 piles 0
Hillerød 25 25 16 16 5 piles 3 piles 3
Allerød 8 8 5 5 8 ponds 6 ponds 6
Gribskov 28 32 29 8 5 piles, 5 ponds 5 piles, 5 ponds 0
Total 76 76 56 29 46 28,8 18,8
● Hjørring municipality has held three guided tours. The considerably larger number of planned
guided tours in Hjørring municipality was linked to the exhibition in the local nature centre. The
renovation of nature centre was postponed several times during last two years and the latest
information is that they will start in spring 2013, therefore the exhibition will be completed not
before autumn 2013.
Now we will direct the main focus to activities in nature and will not link 2013 guided tours to
the exhibition. Starting from January 2013 municipality has a new staff member who`s one task
is to carry on guided tours foreseen in this project.
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3. Administrative part
3.1 Project management
The project coordinator, local managers of associated beneficiaries and Danish national manager
have been appointed.
The project coordinator is responsible for general coordination, the project’s general accountancy
and compilation of project reports.
The actions in Estonia are organized also by the project coordinator and the actions in Denmark
are organized by the local managers and the Danish national manager. The Danish national
manager also gathers and compiles Danish reports.
The tasks of coordinator and managers include finding the experts and companies for
implementing project actions (finding the possible candidates, preparing tenders and price
requests, etc.), preparing contracts and other documentation, making the necessary arrangements
for carrying out actions, accepting the completed work, superscribing receipts, ensuring that the
actions are implemented in accordance with legislation and LIFE rules, organizing the project’s
promotion in the media, etc.
Once a year, the associated beneficiaries submit to the project coordinator in-depth progress and
financial reports, adhering to the corresponding LIFE forms. In addition, the Danish national
manager submits short running updates to the coordinating beneficiary as the actions unfold.
The project has two steering committees, one in Denmark and one in Estonia.
3.2 Organigram of the project team and the project management structure
The organigram is presented in Annex 6.1.
3.3 Delivered reports
On 28.09.2010 the Inception Report was sent to the Commission (our letter no 36963 dated
28.09.2010). The report is available on the project homepage.
On 28.02.2012 the MidTerm Report was sent to the Commission (our letter no 25813-2 dated
28.02.2012). The report is available on the project homepage.
3.4 Changes
Although most project actions have progressed as planned, pond restoration, creation of new
ponds and management of terrestrial habitats are behind schedule by approximately a year, due
to various reasons (see explanation in Chapter 2.3 Problems encountered). We are convinced that
it is feasible to complete these actions in the remaining two years. However, it will no longer be
possible to assess project results both in terms of target species and for the course of the project
generally, as many of the ponds are too new for that.
After negotiations with partners we have come to the conclusion that it is pertinent to extend the
project’s duration by about 10 months. This will allow us to do the necessary fieldwork also in
the spring of 2015, then to analyze the fieldwork and finally to publish the results in project
reports and publications (Best Practice Guidelines, After LIFE Conservation Plan, etc).
Extending the project will neither bring about budgetary changes nor change the content or
volume of the actions. We estimate that the following actions would extend into 2015: final
seminar, Best Practice Guidelines, Layman’s Report, After LIFE Conservation Plan. We are
planning to continue in 2015 with the inventories, international cooperation of experts and
dissemination of information (articles, cooperation with landowners, local communities, etc.).
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4. Technical part
4.1 Actions
A1 EVALUATION OF BREEDING PONDS OF TARGET SPECIES
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Pond inventory form Spring 2010 Completed, May 2010
Evaluation of breeding ponds in Estonia 30/11/2011 Completed, June 2010 (270 ponds)
Evaluation of breeding ponds in Denmark 30/11/2011 Completed, July 2010 (195 ponds)
Data analysis and reporting 30/11/2011 Completed, December 2011
In spring 2010, the Estonian and Danish experts on amphibians and invertebrates elaborated an
inventory form, which was filled for each examined water body during the inventory. The
inventory was conducted in summer 2010 in Estonia and Denmark.
In May 2011 an additional inventory of common spadefoot toad was conducted in Estonia in
project site Karula. A special device – the hydrophone – was used to find calling males.
To find out the habitat requirements of L. pectoralis and P. fuscus, data from breeding ponds’
evaluation was used and report was compiled in 2011.
The inventory form was sent to the Commission together with the Inception Report in 2010. The
report of the action was sent together with the Mid-term report in 2012 and is available on the
project homepage.
According to the suggestion of the Commission the map of investigated source ponds in
Denmark is added to the report of the action.
A2 CREATION OF AN INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
International network of experts 2010–2014 In progress
Site visit to Estonia 30/10/2011 Completed, June 2011
Site visit to Denmark 30/10/2012 Completed, June 2012
Site visit to France 31/10/2013
Site visit to Germany and the Netherlands 30/08/2014
Network
In 2010 numerous new contacts were established with experts on amphibians and invertebrates
from various countries and an international network of experts was formed.
In 2011 we began establishing contacts with experts from France, Sweden, Finland and
Netherlands. In 2012 new contacts were established with experts on amphibians and
invertebrates from Norway (2 persons), Sweden (2), France (1), Germany (2), England (1). To all
of them were sent project description and homepage address. They were specially informed that
reports and results of different actions are available on the homepage. All of them were also
invited to participate in the project’s workshop in 2013.
At the beginning of May 2013 we will have meeting with Finnish nature conservation experts in
Estonia. The aim of this meeting is to introduce our project (to make an presentation and to show
restored ponds) and to establish new contacts.
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Site visit to Denmark (detailed description of site visit and workshop with photos is available
on the project homepage, Events&Pictures 2012)
From 10 to 13 June 2012 a site visit to Denmark took place. The participants were: L.C. Adrados
and N. Damm (both Amphi Consult), L.G. Nielsen (Hjørring Municipality), B. Kjeldgaard
(organic farmer), S.M. Krag (Thisted Municipality), M. Linnamägi (Estonian Ministry of the
Environment), T. Jairus and P. Pappel (both University of Tartu), M. Markus and R. Tischler
(both NGO Põhjakonn), K. Viilma, J. Siimson and P. Voolaid (all Environmental Board).
On June 10, the participants visited Råbjerg Mile. The site is probably the most important site for
B. calamita in Denmark. In addition the participants visited Skallerup Indlandslitter, to explore
the site of the P. fuscus donor population in Hjørring and the project site Vandplasken where
terrestrial management have been done and tadpoles are planned to released by 2013.
In June 11, the participants visited the organic farmer B. Kjeldgaards property. On his ground is a
pond with the largest known population of P. fuscus in a single pond (more than 150 calling
males in May 2012). B. Kjeldgaard told about organic farming and showed the pond and the
adjacent potatoes fields. The visit were followed by a journalist and photographer from regional
newspaper which two days later resulted in a big article about the visit. Last event on the day
was a presentation by S. M. Krag about nature education.
In June 12, the participant visited the Thy National Park, the largest coherent nature area in
Denmark, which host the largest coherent population of T. cristatus in the country.
In June 13, the participants visited the project site Tinnet Krat, where ponds have been restored
during the previous LIFE project BALTRIT and where tadpoles of P. fuscus have been released
during this project. In addition “seven years lakes” in Frederikshåb were visited. This is the
donor site for the breeding of P. fuscus in Egtved. Last event on the day was a visit to Amphi
Consult’s breeding station where N. Damm told about the different breeding programs.
A3 CRITERIA FOR ASSESSING THE FAVOURABLE CONSERVATION STATUS
OF TARGET SPECIES
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Criteria for L. pectoralis 30/11/2012 Completed, December 2012
Criteria for P. fuscus 30/11/2012 Completed, December 2012
The criteria for assessing the favourable conservation status of Leucorrhinia pectoralis were
simultaneously worked out by Danish and Estonian experts in 2011–2012. The availability and
quality of aquatic and terrestrial habitats as well as population structure was taken into account.
According to our results the population of L. pectoralis can be estimated as favourable when it
has stable annual breeding success in at least two larger water bodies. The breeding waters must
have naturally clean water and an extensive shallow zone of sun-exposed vegetation along the
banks. The maximum water depth should be at least 1.5 m and the preferred sediment type is
peat. The terrestrial habitat must contain forest in the nearby surroundings and in the vicinity of
the breeding pond. Intensive agriculture in the close surroundings must be avoided. The effective
population size should be at least 400 adults (the population must count at least 800 adults).
The criteria for assessing the favourable conservation status of Pelobates fuscus were
simultaneously worked out by Estonian, Danish and Dutch experts in 2011–2012. The effective
population size, structure of meta-populations and availability and quality of aquatic and
terrestrial habitats were taken into account. According to our results the population of P. fuscus
can be estimated as favourable when it has stable annual breeding success in at least three water
bodies. The breeding waters must be large, fish free, with naturally clean water and an extensive
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zone of shallow water. The preferred sediment type of the breeding pond is clay. Additionally,
the breeding sites have to be sun-exposed, particularly in Estonia and to a lesser extent also in
Denmark. The terrestrial habitat has to contain sandy and loose soil (at least within a 100-m
radius around the breeding pond). Deciduous forest should be avoided in the close vicinity of the
breeding pond. Intensive agriculture in the close surroundings of the breeding sites has to be
avoided. The effective population size must be at least 500 adult toads (the population must
count at least 1,000 adults during each decade).
Both reports of the action are available on the project homepage.
A4 ACTION PLANS FOR TARGET SPECIES FOR ESTONIA
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Action Plan for L. pectoralis 01/11/2013 In progress
Action Plan for P. fuscus 01/11/2013 In progress
The compilation of action plans is based on the experiences and information gathered while
implementing different project actions and the experiences and know-how gained through
international cooperation among experts. As these base actions have progressed well, the
circumstances for compiling actions plans are favourable and the Action Plans are set to be
completed by the end of 2013, and updated in 2014 if needed.
In Estonia the Action Plan is essentially identical to the After LIFE Conservation Plan (including
activities in all project sites and financing plan), except that the plans will be compiled in
Estonian language. Because of that both will be translated into English and will be published in
digital and paper version in 2014 (see also description of Action E4).
A5 GUIDELINES FOR ERADICATION OF INVASIVE ALIEN AQUATIC SPECIES
Milestone Amount Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Guidelines 30/09/2012 Completed, December 2012
Folder on invasive alien species 1000 01/12/2013
At present, invasive alien species (IAS) are one of the most important direct drivers of
biodiversity loss throughout the world and constitute the greatest threat to fragile ecosystems,
such as small isolated water bodies. In spite of the wide distribution of some of these invasive
alien species, there is a lack of effective methodology for mitigating the impacts of or completely
eradicating such species in Europe. Thus, in the framework of the DRAGONLIFE project,
methods and guidelines for the eradication of invasive alien aquatic species were elaborated and
their effectiveness tested by Estonian, Danish and Dutch experts. It was considered that in
Northern Europe the most invasive and problematic alien species for pond habitats are the
Carassius fish group and Perccottus glennii (a fish species), followed by certain aquatic plants
(Eleodea canadensis and Crassula helmsii).
In the guidelines the best and most effective environmentally friendly methods – avoiding
hazardous chemicals or poisons – were suggested. Although several methods were tested during
the project, the best method for the eradication of aquatic IAS turned out to be the mechanical
cleaning of water bodies.
Report of the action is available on the project homepage.
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C1 RESTORATION OF WATER BODIES
C2 CREATION OF NEW FRESHWATER BODIES
As actions C1 and C2 are closely connected and similar in content and implementation, we have
described them together.
Project area No of ponds Revised plan
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
C1 C2 C1 C2 C1 C2 C1 C2 C1 C2 C1 C2
Karula 20 22 6 9 8 8
Lahemaa 19 6
Emajõe-Suursoo and Piirissaar
6 9
Lasila 0 0
Neeruti 4 2
Varangu 0 3
Mõdriku-Roela
4 4 4 4
Porkuni 2 0
Total planned
55 46 6 14 9 19 14 10 18 6 5
Status 31/12/2012
18 21 6 9 12 12 0 0
Hjørring 1 5
Vejle 0 5
Hillerød 24 1 9 1 6
Allerød 8 0 3 2
Gribskov 25 7 5 3
Total planned
58 18 11 3 11 4 18 7 18 2 2
Status 31/12/2012
19 4 0 0 17 4 2 0
Planned ponds are marked with grey colour
Estonia
In 2010–2011 we managed to restore or dig 39 ponds, instead of the initially planned 31 ponds.
In 2012, however, we were not able to restore or dig any ponds. Carrying out actions C1 and C2
failed in 2012 mainly due to changes in the procurement procedure and due to the market
situation (explanation is presented in Chapter 2.3 Problems encountered).
At the beginning of 2013 we will launch a new procurement. We are planning to begin digging
new ponds in July and restoring the existing ones in September. We expect the work to be
successful based on the following: we have the all necessary permits for most project sites
(except Lahemaa, where selection will begin in the spring of 2013, see table on next page),
which allows for launching the procurement at the beginning of the year and small companies
have began to participate in procurements because experts foresee less work in construction
market (it means also lower prices in general).
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Changes in the volumes of actions C1 and C2 in Estonia by project site
Reasons for the changes in the ratio of restored and new ponds are described in the Mid-Term
Report (Chapter 2.3 and Chapter 4.1 Action C1&C2). In short, many extremely scrub-invaded
ponds are featured on the base map already as scrub, and restoring them officially means that
new ponds are created. For several reasons it has also become necessary to modify the numbers
of restored and new ponds by project site.
Project site No of ponds according to the project application
Revised plan Permissions obtained
C1 C2 C1 C2 C1 C2
Karula 20 8 20 22 20 22
Lahemaa 19 6 19 6 0 0
Emajõe-Suursoo and Piirissaar
8 5 6 9 4 7
Lasila 6 0 0 0 0 0
Neeruti 5 4 4 2 4 2
Varangu 5 2 0 3 0 3
Mõdriku-Roela 5 4 4 4 4 4
Porkuni 3 1 2 0 2 0
Subtotal 71 30 55 46 34 38
Total 101 101 72
Karula – as the need for ponds is very huge in Karula and as we found a lot of potential places
for new ponds in that area, more new ponds are created than was initially planned.
Lahemaa – number of ponds according to the project application.
Emajõe-Suursoo and Piirissaar – here are two separate areas, Emajõe-Suursoo on mainland and
island Piirissaar. Piirissaar has showed one of the highest densities of amphibians in Estonia and
the local population of P. fuscus was one of the biggest and most viable ones in Estonia. In 2012
we managed to get 11 permits for pond restoration and digging in that area. As the total number
of ponds foreseen to restore and dig in Emajõe-Suursoo and Piirissaar is 13 we would like to
increase it up to 15. Otherwise we can restore only 2 ponds in Emajõe-Suursoo.
Lasila – the project foresaw the restoration of ponds in a former mining area. As mining was
restarted in the area, the ponds are no longer restored in the framework of the project. At the end
of 2011, an environmental impact assessment was commissioned, and one of the compilers of the
assessment was Riinu Rannap, expert for the DRAGONLIFE project. The assessment states that
once the mining is completed, the miner must create small water bodies in the area, based on the
needs of protected species. This work will be instructed and supervised by the amphibian expert.
Neeruti – 6 ponds instead of 9. As Neeruti is a karst area (system of subterranean voids), several
initially selected sites proved geologically unsuitable. The number is not fixed totally. In 2013
we will try to find some new places for ponds.
Varangu – 3 ponds instead of 7. Some pond sites were left out, as permits were not given for sites
that are situated in or at the edge of seminatural communities.
Mõdriku-Roela – no substantial changes.
Porkuni – 2 ponds instead of 4. According to an agreement with the State Forest Management
Centre (SFMC), the centre will restore one more pond (this will not be covered by the project
budget and will not included in the project’s pond count, but will take place as a result of
negotiations between project experts and the SFMC). As Porkuni is also a karst area, there are no
more suitable sites for ponds.
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Denmark
In Allerød 2 ponds were restored in 2012. In other municipalities we focused all our attention on
permits in 2012. This was the main problem which did not allowed us to go ahead with this
important project action (explanation is presented in Chapter 2.3 Problems encountered).
In December 2012 we got almost all needed permits in Hjørring (1 for restoring and 5 for
digging new ponds) and in Gribskov (17 for restoring and 4 for digging). It means that we have
all needed permits in Hjørring and only 3 more are needed in Gribskov.
In Vejle the decision on the number of the ponds was made in 2012. After that the permit
applications was submitted and the permits are expected to be issued in spring 2013.
Already in January 2013 we were starting with pond restoration and digging in Denmark and 6
ponds were restored in Hillerød. The work will continue in all municipalities in 2013.
Changes in the volumes of actions C1 and C2 in Denmark by project site
For several reasons it has also become necessary to modify the numbers of restored and new
ponds by project site.
Project site No of ponds according to the project application
Revised plan Permissions obtained
C1 C2 C1 C2 C1 C2
Hjørring 3 2 1 5 1 5
Vejle 5 5 0 5 0 0
Hillerød 5 20 24 1 15 1
Allerød 8 0 8 0 5 0
Gribskov 5 23 25 7 22 7
Subtotal 26 50 58 18 43 13
Total 76 76 56
Hjorring – It was impossible to get permits for restoration of ponds in site with priority Natura
2000 habitat type as it was foreseen initially. New locations of ponds are still inside project and
Natura area. In principle no substantial changes.
Vejle – 5 new ponds will be dug.. The plan was also to restore 5 P. fuscus breeding ponds which
were totally overgrown but the toad was still breeding there. In 2011 and 2012 no toads were
found anymore. The amphibian expert came to a decision that restoration of these ponds is
hopeless and waste of money in a long term perspective. Around the ponds are fields and there
are no ways to avoid nutrients inflow into the ponds because the landscape is hilly.
Hillerød and Gribskov – the changes were described in the MidTerm report (Chapter 4.1 Action
C1&C2). Some small adjustments are made. In total the number of the ponds will increase.
Allerød – no changes foreseen.
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C3 MANAGEMENT OF THE TERRESTRIAL HABITAT IN THE SURROUNDINGS
OF THE PONDS
Project area Target Permissions obtained
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Hjørring 15 ha 9,8 ha 9,8 ha
Vejle 8 piles 0 piles
Hillerød 5 piles 3 piles 3 piles
Allerød 8 ponds 6 ponds 3 ponds 3 ponds
Gribskov 5 piles, 5 ponds 5 piles, 5 ponds
Total planned 100% 100% 30% 30% 40%
Status 31/12/2012 35% 63% 28% 7%
In 2012 the surroundings of 3 ponds were cleared in Allerød. Work will continue in 2013.
In Gribskov all permits were issued in December 2012 and work will start in 2013.
Hjørring and Vejle municipalities: the permit applications have been submitted and the permits
are expected to be issued in spring 2013, so that terrestrial sites could be managed in 2013.
Combined with the implementation of the action C1 in Hillerød 3 piles have been created in
January 2013. We expect that almost all terrestrial management will be completed in 2013.
C4 ESTABLISHMENT OF RESERVE POPULATIONS FOR PELOBATES FUSCUS
Project area No of tadpoles 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Vejle (Tinnet) 4000 5975 1486
Vejle (Egtved) 6000 2600
Hjørring (Vandplasken) 4000
Total planned 14000 1400 2800 5600 2800 1400
Status 31/12/2012 10061 5975 1486 2600
In Vejle Municipality 2.600 new metamorphosed toads have been released in Egtved. With the
release of 7.461 tadpoles in Tinnet by the end of 2011 and app. 2.600 new metamorphosed toads
in Egtved, the action has completed in Vejle Municipality.
Due to very intense predation of P. fuscus eggs by T. vulgaris the breeding program was
unsuccessful in Hjørring in 2012. In 2013 a new attempt will be made with fencing of the ponds,
collecting of eggs and growing of tadpoles in boxes and realising them after metamorphosis.
During the project time the approach was changed from releasing relatively many but younger
tadpoles to releasing fewer but much bigger tadpoles and/or metamorphosed toads. We expect
that the survival rate is much higher in latter case. We dont have any scientific support of the
change but logically it seems reasonable. There can be a lot of predators (invertebrates, birds,
fish) in the pond. If tadpoles spend less time in the pond probability to be eaten is lower.
It takes in average 3 years before new metamorphosed froglets become sexual active - i.e. only
after that it is possible to start observing result of the action. We are planning to make an
inventory in Tinnet project site in spring 2013.
Change of method do not affect to the target of the action. Releasing program is on schedule and
at the end of the project at least 14 000 tadpoles will be released.
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C5 ERADICATING INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES
Project area No of ponds 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Karula 2
Lahemaa 3
Emajõe-Suursoo and Piirissaar 2
Neeruti 1
Mõdriku-Roela 1
Porkuni 1
Total planned 10 10
Status 31/12/2012 0 0 0 0
Hillerød 2 1
Total planned 2 2
Status 31/12/2012 1 1
In Estonia the ponds have been selected (except Lahemaa, where selection will begin in the
spring of 2013) and agreements have been reached with landowners. According to the guidelines
(Action A5), the eradication is similar to the restoration of ponds and thus a joint procurement is
required. The procurement procedure failed in 2012, and a new procurement will be organized in
the spring of 2013 (see also the description of actions C1 and C2).
In 2011 an invasive alien fish species (Carassius auratus auratus) was eradicated from one pond
in Denmark. During the inventory of this pond in 2012 no fish were found. Already one year
after restoration the breeding of amphibians took place. We found Pelobates fuscus tadpoles,
Rana esculenta tadpoles and adults, Triturus vulgaris tadpoles and adults.
Action will continue in 2013 together with C1 and C2.
D1 SCHOOL PROGRAM FOR NATURE EDUCATION
Milestone Amount Deadline according to the project Status 31/12/2012
Identification key on Estonian amphibians
2000 20/12/2010 Completed, September 2010 (2000 copies)
Identification key on Estonian dragonflies
2000 01/12/2011 In progress, will be published in March 2013
Teachers’ guidelines 31/12/2013 In progress
Pupils’ worksheets 31/12/2013 In progress
School network 31/12/2013 In progress
School program and network
In 2011, the basic principles for teachers’ guidelines and pupils’ worksheets were elaborated.
In 2012, the first worksheets were drawn up. This type of learning has often consisted in
measuring (water temperature, etc.), describing (transparency and colour of water, etc.) and
identifying (various species). Our idea is to place a considerably stronger emphasis on
connections (plants / animals / abiotic environment) and posing why-questions. The aim is to
focus on creativity and independent thinking. The guidelines and worksheets are elaborated by
the project staff together with basic and secondary school biology teachers. The work will
continue in 2013 and will be completed according to project schedule.
15
In 2011 we selected the schools with whom closer cooperation begins. But at this time the
discussions about school reform started in Estonia. The plan including closing of schools, adding
of schools together, disuniting of primary and high schools etc. We decided to wait until
September 2013 to have overview which schools we can select for network.
Identification key on Estonian amphibians
The identification key on Estonian amphibians has been completed (was sent to the Commission
together with the Inception Report in 2010 and is available on the project’s homepage).
In spring 2011, a smartphone application for the “Identification Key on Estonian Amphibians”
was developed together with the University of Tartu (the link is available on the project’s
homepage) and the application can be used on iPhone, iPod and Android devices.
Identification key on Estonian dragonflies
In 2012, we worked on the layout of the identification key on Estonian dragonflies. After the first
draft was completed it was reviewed by several experts in the field. The reviewers made
suggestions on complementing drawings, replacing species photos and amending the text. Once
the new drawings and photos were in, the necessary amendments were made. This was followed
by a new reading dedicated to correcting and harmonizing terminology. The final layout was
ready at the end of 2012. At the beginning of 2013 we received bids from printers, and the field
guide will was sent to the printers in February 2013. It will be printed in 2,000 copies.
The field guide will contain a total of 127 photos by nine authors from six countries (Estonia,
Denmark, Finland, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Russia). It will also feature almost 300
original drawings by an Estonian artist.
It is remarkable that the most recent more detailed publication on dragonflies in Estonia was
published 50 years ago, in 1963. Our field guide has generated much interest already before its
publication and has enabled us to introduce the LIFE project in various circles and at different
events while still in the compilation phase.
D2 GUIDED TOURS
Guided tours Number of guided tours 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Karula 2 1 1
Lahemaa 5 2
Emajõe-Suursoo and Piirissaar 1
Neeruti 2 1
Mõdriku-Roela 1
Porkuni 1
Other 0 2 1
Total planned 12 2 3 2 3 2
Status 31/12/2012 8 2 4 2
Hjørring 20 2 1
Vejle 3 1 1
Allerød 4 2 1
Gribskov 6 1 1
Total planned 33 8 8 9 8
Status 31/12/2011 10 6 1 3
In 2012 we organized 2 guided tours in Estonia and 3 guided tours in Denmark. Altogether 30
16
people took part from Estonian tours and more than 100 people from tours in Denmark. We will
continue with guided tours in 2013 in both countries.
In Estonia the first tour held in Karula on 6 June and was targeted at local landowners, who of
course came with children. During the day we caught aquatic animals from the ponds and
identified them. Afterwards, we discussed the importance of ponds for amphibians and insects.
In 2011 we had taught the biota of small water bodies in a Junior Ranger youth camp at
Lahemaa. This year we were invited to Saaremaa, where the Junior Ranger camp for local pupils
was organized from 26 to 28 June. During these days we organised different activities for
participants. An evening field trip to the local sand quarry, where the natterjack toad resides; a
lecture on amphibians, biota of small water bodies and our project; practical fieldwork (dip-
netting, pond studing).
In Denmark the tours were held in Hjørring, Vejle and Allerød municipalities and the participants
were landowners and people interested in nature protection. The experts introduced project
activities which was combined with excursion to the project sites.
During first guided tours (2010-2011) in Gribskov protection of P. fuscus was introduced. Rest of
tours municipality is planning to use in Ellemosen, when the work for L. pectoralis will be
completed (2013 and 2014).
The considerably larger number of planned tours in Hjørring was linked to the exhibition in the
local nature centre. The renovation of the centre was postponed several times during last two
years and the latest plan is that they will start at the beginning of 2013, accordingly the
exhibition will be completed not before autumn 2013. Now we will direct the main focus to
activities in nature and will not link 2013 guided tours to the exhibition. Starting from January
2013 municipality has a new staff member who`s one task is to carry on guided tours. The new
plan is to divide rest guided tours (17) between two years, half in 2013 and rest in 2014.
D3 EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS AND SEMINAR
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Workshops in Estonia 30/09/2011 Completed, June 2011
Workshop in Denmark 30/09/2012 Completed, June 2012
Workshops in Estonia 30/09/2013 In progress
Final Seminar in Estonia 01/08/2014
An international workshop took place in Denmark from 14 to 17 June 2012. Participants were
experts on amphibians and invertebrates from Denmark, Estonia and the Netherlands, experts
and personnel of project partners and students from Denmark. Altogether 30 people participated
on the workshop.
The four days workshop were spent exploring the biota in Gribskov, Hillerød and Allerød
municipality. During the workshop all sites restored or new dug for P. fuscus or L. pectoralis
were visited. The exploration confirmed an earlier recording of P. focus in Hillerød Municipality
and gave hope for a grooving population of L. pectoralis in Allerød Municipality`s project site.
In addition several presentations were made; L.C. Adrados gave a overview of the project
progress in Denmark; P. Pappel gave an overview of the project progress in Estonia; L. Iversen
(Amphi Consult) gave an lesson about status and trends on L. pectoralis in Denmark, M. Holmen
(Danish Entomological Society) gave an lesson about relation between macroinvetebrate
diversity and the occurrence of L. pectoralis; and J. Kilegast (University of Copenhagen) gave an
lesson about DNA-tracking as possible new field method.
Work on organizing the 2013 workshop has already begun. It will take place 17-20 of June. The
negotiations on the venue are under way.
17
D4 EXHIBITIONS ON POND ECOYSTEM
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Exhibition in Vejle 31/8/2010 Completed, May-August 2010
Film on the project 01/10/2013 In progress
Exhibition in Hjørring 01/10/2013 In progress
Exhibition at Alatskivi NC 01/06/2014 In progress
Organizing the exhibition at Alatskivi was discussed during the working meetings held in 2010–
2012. The next visit to Alatskivi Nature Centre, in order to prepare the concrete working plan, is
planned for March–April 2013.
The second exhibition in Vejle Municipality will be replaced by a 10-minute film about the
project (the change has been accepted by the Commission in its letter No 971610 dated
14.08.2012). The film will be an updated version of the first version, now already available on
the project’s homepage (under section Links). The script for the final version will be developed
by Vejle Municipality during early spring 2013, in order to plan the story and the sequences
needed for the final film.
The main focus in Hjørring Municipality in 2012 was on the reconstruction of the municipality’s
nature centre. It is now expected that the physical construction will be finally approved during
the first quarter of 2013. This means that the work can be conducted through the spring, summer
and autumn of 2013. The exhibition will be prepared simultaneously with construction work.
D5 FOLDERS AND INFORMATION BOARDS
Milestone Amount Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Project folder (EST) 2000 31/10/2010 Completed (2,000 copies)
Project folder (DEN) acc. to need 31/10/2010 Completed
Folder on P. fuscus (EST, ENG) 1500 01/10/2012 Completed (1,500 copies)
Folder on P. fuscus (DEN) 1400 01/10/2012
Folder on L. pectoralis (EST, ENG) 1500 31/12/2012 Completed (1,500 copies)
Folder on L. pectoralis (DEN) 1400 31/12/2012
Info boards in Denmark 9 01/11/2013 6
Info boards in Estonia 8 01/09/2014 2 permanent 5 temporary
Estonia
A folder introducing the project was added as a new publication. The folder was compiled and
printed in April 2010 (was sent to the Commission together with the Inception Report in 2010
and is available on the project’s homepage).
A folders on P. fuscus (1000 copies in Estonian and 500 copies in English) and L. pectoralis
(1000 copies in Estonian and 500 copies in English) were compiled and printed in November
2012. All versions are available on the project homepage.
The folders in the Russian language initially foreseen in the project will not be published, as
there is no real need for them. The people living in the areas where the project operates are
mainly Estonian-speaking. We discussed this matter at the meeting with representatives of the
18
European Commission and the Monitoring Team in June 2012, and we received the
Commission’s agreement regarding this adjustment by letter No 971610 dated 14 August 2012.
In 2012 two permanent info-boards were erected in Karula were restoration of ponds started in
2010. We did not find it wise to install permanent information boards at project sites without
knowing when the digging of ponds would actually begin. An information board announcing
specific excavation works in an area may create problems by possibly giving rise to the
spreading of misinformation that excavation may begin wherever. For this reason permanent
boards will be installed when excavation works are launched in 2013.
In 2012, we installed 5 temporary information boards in the offices of the Environmental Board
and in nature centres, visited by both local people and tourists. The boards are not location-
specific and they inform of the project and its actions in the area in more general terms.
Denmark
In 2012 six infoboards were erected in Denamrk (1 in Hjørring and Hillerød, 2 in Vejle and
Allerød). In Hillerød Municipality the location of second info-board is under discussion. In
Gribskov Municipality locations and contents of two info-boards are decided. All info-boards in
Denmark will be erected during 2013.
Danish folders on P. fuscus and L. pectoralis will be printed during first months of 2013. The
Estonian folders text was written in Estonian and English languages. The text is currently being
translated into the Danish language and adapted to the local conditions in Denmark and will be
printed in May before the field work season.
D6 BEST PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR PROTECTION OF L. PECTORALIS AND
P. FUSCUS
Milestone Amount Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Best Practice Guidelines 1000 30/11/2014 In progress
The guidelines were discussed in October 2012. We decided that the principle and layout will be
similar to the guidelines of LIFE Nature projects LIFE04NAT/EE/000070 BALTRIT and
LIFE00NAT/EE/007083 (Boreal Baltic Coastal Meadow Preservation in Estonia).
D7 WEB PAGE
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Project WEB page 30/6/2010 Completed, August 2010
The project’s homepage was drawn up according to the main layout of the Environmental
Board’s homepage. The homepage is located at www.keskkonnaamet.ee/dragonlife and it is in
the Estonian and English languages. The homepage features LIFE and Natura 2000 logos.
The project homepage provides an overview of the present LIFE project and project actions, the
target species (Leucorrhinia pectoralis and Pelobates fuscus) and small water bodies. It features
information on project beneficiaries along with links to their homepages. Separate sections are
for events, publications, reports, results and different important links (incl. the Natura 2000 and
LIFE homepage). Contact data of the project staff are also presented. The project homepage is
updated constantly as the project progresses.
Associated beneficiaries have included overviews of this LIFE project and its actions on their
respective homepages. Their homepages have also link to project main homepage.
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D8 LAYMAN’S REPORT
Milestone Amount Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Layman`s Report 950 30/11/2014
The action is set to begin later.
E1 PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTANCY
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Inception Report 30/09/2010 Completed, 28/09/2010
Mid-Term Report 28/02/2012 Completed, 28/02/2012
Progress Report n°1 28/02/2013 Completed, 01/03/2013
Progress Report n°2 28/02/2014
Final Report 31/03/2015
Project management
The project manager has been hired in 2010 by the Environmental Board, who also acts as the
project manager for Estonia. The local managers of associated beneficiaries have also been
appointed in 2010. The Danish national project manager has been selected by the associated
beneficiaries.
Accountancy procedures have been established in accordance with local legislation and CP rules.
All expenditure receipts also feature a clear reference to the project (number and abbreviation).
The Danish and the Estonian Steering Committee (SC) has been put in place. The project’s
Estonian SC meeting was held on 17 February 2012. The project manager gave an overview of
the project’s progress and the participants discussed the actions planned for 2012. Danish SC
meeting was held on 16 March 2012. The main topics of the meeting were project progress,
public awarness (infoboards, articles and possibilities to introduce the project in radio and TV
etc), study tour and workshop 2012, budget. During the March-April 2013 next meetings of
Estonian and Danish SC will take place.
On 15 (Denmark) and 17 (Estonia) June 2010, the project was visited by the External Monitoring
Team (EMT). The local manager (in Denmark) and project manager (in Estonia) gave an
overview of the project and actions and the partnership modification were discussed. After the
discussion, a site visit took place.
On 1-2 (Estonia) and 6-7 (Denmark) of June 2011, he project was visited by the EMT. The
project manager (in Estonia) and local manager (in Denmark) gave an overview of the project
and actions. After the discussion, a site visits took place.
On 25-26 of June 2012, he project was visited by the Commission and EMT. The project
manager gave an overview of the project and actions. After the discussion, a site visit took place.
Articles & meetings
In 2012 articles on the project were published in local newspapers (4 articles) and in the nature
magazine Eesti Loodus (Estonian Nature). All the articles are available also online. The project
was also introduced on the radio (one special talk-show about the project on KUKU Radio).
We expect large interest from the media in 2013, as we will continue digging ponds in new areas
and will publish the Field Guide to Estonian Dragonflies, which is the first-ever complete field
20
guide to dragonflies and the first more detailed publication on dragonflies in Estonia since 1963.
The project was publicized at the Estonian events celebrating the 20th anniversary of the LIFE
programme: a work camp at Manilaid (a site of LIFE project LIFE00NAT/EE/7083) from 28 to
29 April and a seminar on the development of nature conservation in Estonia with support from
the European Union on 30 August. There, the project manager Voldemar Rannap gave a talk on
LIFE and the protection of amphibians in Estonia, discussing among other projects also the
DRAGONLIFE project.
The DRAGONLIFE project was introduced at a local community meeting in Karula on 18 April.
The presentation was followed by a discussion with landowners on the restoration of ponds.
Similar meeting with landowners was held in Hillerød on 4 October.
E2 MONITORING OF THE EFFECTS OF PROJECT ACTIONS
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Monitoring 31.12.10 Completed
Monitoring 31/12/2011 Completed
Monitoring 31/12/2012 Completed
Monitoring 31/12/2013
Monitoring 01/11/2014
Database of results 2010–2014 In progress
Estonia
For the purpose of assessing the results of project actions C1 and C2 (restoration and creation of
ponds) we inventoried in Estonia in the spring of 2011 the ponds that had been restored and dug
in 2010 (15 ponds) and in the spring of 2012 the ponds that had been restored and dug in 2010
and 2011 (altogether 39 ponds). The inventory results are presented below.
Species Protection status 2011 2012
Pelobates fuscus* Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 4 9
Leucorrhinia pectoralis* Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 0 10
Triturus cristatus Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 0 4
Triturus vulgaris 8 30
Rana lessonae Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 9 25
Rana arvalis Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 4 20
Rana temporaria Annex V of the EU Habitats Directive 3 6
Leucorrhinia rubicunda 0 1
Pelobates fuscus* - breeding ponds Leucorrhinia pectoralis* – adults are found around the ponds
The number of populated ponds increased for all species. In 2012, three new species were added,
including the strictly protected T. cristatus and the project’s target species L. pectoralis.
Denmark
For the purpose of assessing the result of project action C1 and C2 (restoration and creation of
ponds), in Denmark in spring 2012 we inventoried the ponds that had been restored and dug in
21
2011 and the first months of 2012 (23 ponds). The inventory results are presented below.
Species Protection status 2012
Pelobates fuscus Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 0
Leucorrhinia pectoralis* Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 3
Triturus cristatus Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 4
Triturus vulgaris 9
Rana lessonae Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 7
Rana arvalis Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 1
Rana dalmatina Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 2
Rana temporaria Annex V of the EU Habitats Directive 2
Leucorrhinia pectoralis* – adults are found around the ponds and equvia in 2 ponds.
Only one year after restoration P. fuscus ponds it was not expected to be able to see any results of
the work. This was confirmed also during the revisit. Concerning L. pectoralis, it seemed also
that the concentrations of individuals in the new restored Kattahale Mose had already increased.
However visibility in the moor has also increased due to the restoration.
In 2011 an invasive alien fish species (Carassius auratus auratus) was eradicated from one pond
in Denmark. During the inventory of this pond in 2012 no fish were found. Already one year
after restoration the breeding of amphibians took place. We found Pelobates fuscus tadpoles,
Rana esculenta tadpoles and adults, Triturus vulgaris tadpoles and adults.
Inventories will be repeated in the spring of 2013 both in Denmark and Estonia.
E3 NETWORKING WITH OTHER PROJECTS
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
Networking 2010-2014 In progress
During 2010-2011 numerous new contacts were established with experts on amphibians and
invertebrates from various countries (Estonia, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Czech, Spain,
Lithuania), and an international network of experts was formed in the course of the inventory
work.
In 2012 new contacts were established with experts on amphibians and invertebrates from
Norway (2 persons), Sweden (2), France (1), Germany (2). Many of them are working with
different projects and already answered positively to our invitation to participate in project
workshop. In May a meeting with nature conservation people from Finland will take place.
In 2012 we established a good cooperation with LIFE project URBANCOWS and dense
information sharing is taking place (incl participating in Steering Committee meetings).
Our plan for 2013 is to go on with international cooperation.
E4 AFTER LIFE CONSERVATION PLAN
Milestone Deadline Status 31/12/2012
After LIFE Conservation Plan 01/12/2014 In progress
22
The compilation of the After LIFE Conservation Plan is based on the results of most project
actions. Therefore, according to part 2008-C3 (Timetable) of the project proposal the action was
set to begin in 2011. Actually, the inventory of 2010 could be considered the real starting point.
As in Estonia the Action Plan (Action A4) is essentially identical to the After LIFE Conservation
Plan, the plans are set to be completed by the end of 2013, and updated in 2014 if needed.
The Estonian Action Plans for the project’s target species (including activities in all project sites)
will be compiled in the Estonian language. Both action plans will be translated into English and
will be published in digital and paper format.
In Denmark, compiling the After LIFE Conservation Plan will begin in 2014. The years prior to
that are used for gathering the necessary information and know-how. The Danish partners will
also participate in compiling Estonian action plans. In Estonia, action plans for species and areas
have been for years the basic documents for carrying out the protection of species and areas.
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4.2 Project progress 2010-2012 and envisaged progress until next report
Actions 2010 2011 2012 2013 Envisaged progress until next
report January -December 2013 1T 2T 3T 4T 1T 2T 3T 4T 1T 2T 3T 4T 1T 2T 3T 4T
Reports Proposed O IR MT PR According to the application.
Actual ● ● ● ● Action A1
Proposed Evaluation of breeding ponds completed.
Actual
Action A2 Proposed Site visit to France. Experts network will
continue. Actual
Action A3 Proposed Criteria for assessing the favourable
conservation status completed. Actual
Action A4 Proposed Action Plans will be compiled.
Actual
Action A5 Proposed Guidelines on eradication of IAS
completed. Folder will be compiled Actual
Action C1 Proposed 46 ponds in Estonia and 39 ponds in
Denmark will be restored. Actual
Action C2 Proposed 6 new ponds in Estonia and 12 new
ponds in Denmark will be created. Actual
Action C3 Proposed 100 % terrestrial management carried out
in Denmark. Actual
Action C4 Proposed 100 % (14000 tadpoles) of captive
breeding carried out in Denmark. Actual
Action C5 Proposed Invasive alien aquatic species were
eradicated from 11 ponds (100 %). Actual
Action D1 Proposed Estonian dragonflies key will be printed.
School program will be completed and
network is established.
Actual
Action D2 Proposed 3 guided tours carried out in Estonia and
13 in Denmark. Actual
Action D3 Proposed Workshop hold in Estonia.
Actual
Action D4 Proposed Arrangements of Hjørring and Alatskivi
exhibitions. Actual
Action D5 Proposed P. fuscus and L. pectoralis folders will be
completed. All info-boards erected. Actual
Action D6 Proposed Information collecting for Best Practice
Guidelines. Actual
Action D7 Proposed Regular updating of WEB page.
Actual
Action D8 Proposed Information collecting for Layman´s
Report. Actual
Action E1 Proposed Regular work. Preparation of Progress
report. Actual
Action E2 Proposed Monitoring of the effects of project
actions carried out. Actual
Action E3 Proposed Contacts and information sharing with
other projects. Actual
Action E4 Proposed Estonian After LIFE conservation plans.
Will be compiled Actual
O Start date
IR Inception Report
MT Mid Term Report
PR Progress Report
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4.3 Impact of the project on the species
Estonia
For the purpose of assessing the impact of project actions to the species we inventoried in
Estonia in the spring of 2011 the ponds that had been restored and dug in 2010 (Karula project
site, 15 ponds) and in the spring of 2012 the ponds that had been restored and dug in 2010 and
2011 (Karula and Mõdriku-Roela project sites, altogether 39 ponds). The inventories results are
presented below.
Species Protection status 2011 2012
Pelobates fuscus Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 4 9
Leucorrhinia pectoralis Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 0 10
Triturus cristatus Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 0 4
Triturus vulgaris 8 30
Rana lessonae Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 9 25
Rana arvalis Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 4 20
Rana temporaria Annex V of the EU Habitats Directive 3 6
Leucorrhinia rubicunda 0 1
Denmark
For the purpose of assessing the result of project action C1 and C2 (restoration and creation of
ponds), in Denmark in spring 2012 we inventoried the ponds that had been restored and dug in
2011 and the first months of 2012 (Hillerød, Allerød and Gribskov, altogether 23 ponds). The
inventory results are presented below.
Species Protection status 2012
Pelobates fuscus Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 0
Leucorrhinia pectoralis Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 3
Triturus cristatus Annex II, IV of the EU Habitats Directive 4
Triturus vulgaris 9
Rana lessonae Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 7
Rana arvalis Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 1
Rana dalmatina Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive 2
Rana temporaria Annex V of the EU Habitats Directive 2
In Denmark in Vejle ca 10 000 Pelobates fuscus tadpoles were reared 2010-2012 and released
into the Tinnet and Egtved project area. Ca 10,000 reared tadpoles were released back into donor
ponds, as this considerably strengthens the donor population (decreasing its mortality). It takes in
average 3 years before new metamorphosed froglets become sexual active - i.e. only after that it
is possible to start observing result of the action. We are planning to make an inventory in Tinnet
project site in spring 2013.
Concerning L. pectoralis, the concentrations of individuals in the new restored Kattahale Mose
had already increased. However visibility in the moor has also increased due to the restoration.
In 2011 an invasive alien fish species Carassius auratus auratus was eradicated from one pond
in Hillerød. During the inventory of this pond in 2012 no fish were found and following
amphibian species were in the pond: Pelobates fuscus tadpoles, Rana esculenta tadpoles and
25
adults, Triturus vulgaris tadpoles and adults.
4.4 Indirect impact of the project
We have witnessed a considerable increase in the awareness of landowners of the importance of
small water bodies and the species linked to them. In many cases landowners themselves have
also contributed to project actions by clearing scrub before excavation works, not asking any
compensation for this. They have also begun suggesting possible locations for ponds and
solutions for improving the situation of small water bodies and their species, and not only in
terms of their own properties, but from a wider perspective.
4.5 Outside LIFE
In Porkuni project site State Forest Management Centre (SFMC) will restore one pond. Near this
pond is a feeding place for wild animals and food is getting into the water which causes
euthrofication. SFMC will move feeding place away and will clean the pond and surroundings.
Hjørring Municipality will create a number of ponds between the project site and the site of the
breeding P. fuscus. It is the target to make a pond corridor between the donor population and the
receiver area. This area would in modern mind be Natura 2000 area, but for historical reasons, it
was not chosen as Natura 2000 area.
5. Annexes
5.1 Organigram of the project team and the project management structure
Hjørring
Municipality,
associated
beneficiary
Velje
Municipality,
associated
beneficiary
Allerød
Municipality,
associated
beneficiary
Hillerød
Municipality,
associated
beneficiary
Gribskov
Municipality,
associated
beneficiary
Steering
Committee
Project
Coordinator
Local Project
Manager
Local Project
Manager
Local experts
Local experts
Amphi
Consult,
associated
beneficiary
Local Project
Manager
Local Project
Manager
Local Project
Manager
National
(DK) Project
Manager
Environmental
Board,
coordinating
beneficiary
EU LIFE-
Nature
Program
Steering
Committee
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