life08nat/ee/000257 pogress report covering the project activities from...

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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

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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

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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

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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.


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


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


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


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.

14

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


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


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


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


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


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.

19

D8 LAYMAN’S REPORT


Layman`s Report 950 30/11/2014

The action is set to begin later.

E1 PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTANCY


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


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


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


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.

23

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

24

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


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

life08nat/ee/000257 pogress report covering the project activities from...

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