mtiasic pir report 2011 dec 8 2011 - cabi.org · unep gef pir fiscal year 2011 (1 january 2011 to...

UNEP GEF PIR Fiscal Year 2011 (1 January 2011 to 30 June 2011)

1. PROJECT GENERAL INFORMATION

Project Title: Mitigating the Threats of Invasive Alien Species in the Insular Caribbean (MTIASIC)

Executing Agency: CABI Caribbean and Latin America CABI CLA) Project partners (Regional):

Caribbean Community (CARICOM); Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (CERMES); Caribbean Invasive Species Working Group (CISWIG); Caribbean Taxonomic Network (CARINET and Caribbean Pest Information Network CARIPESTNET; Council of Presidents of the Environments (COPE); Environmental Law Institute (ELI); Florida A&M University (FAMU) – Center for Biological Control; Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO); Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP); Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA); Inter-American Biodiversity Information Network’s (IABIN) Invasives Information Network (I3N); Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA); The World Conservation Union (IUCN); Regional Activity Centre –Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Information and Training Centre (RAC/REMPEITC); The Trust for Sustainable Livelihoods, Trinidad and Tobago (SUSTRUST); The Nature Conservancy (TNC); United Nations Environment Programme – Caribbean Environment Programme (UNEP-CEP); University of Florida – Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF-IFAS); United States Department of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS); and the University of the West Indies. Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (DWCT), French Government, Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

Project Partners (National):

Bahamas: The Bahamas Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Commission, The Bahamas National Trust, The Nature Conservancy Northern Caribbean Programme, The Bahamas Reef Environmental Education Foundation

Dominican Republic:

TNC Dominican Republic, National Botanical Garden, National Dominican Zoo, National Aquarium, Santo Domingo Autonomous University, National Pedro Henríquez Ureña University, Dominican Technological Institute, Eastern Central University, Natural History Museum, Ecological Society of the Cibao, Loma Quita Espuela Foundation, Ministry of Agriculture, Customs General Directorate; Grupo Jaruga .

Jamaica: Office of the Prime Minister- Environmental Management Division, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries: Fisheries Division, Forestry Department, Research and Development Unit, Veterinary Services Division, CARDI, Institute of Jamaica, University of the West Indies Mona, Jamaica Customs Department, Ministry of Health and Environmental NGO

Saint Lucia: Coastal Zone Management Unit (CZMU), Customs & Excise Department (Ministry of Finance), Ministry of Physical Development and the Environment, Saint Lucia National Trust (SLNT), Saint Lucia Air- and Seaport Authority (SLASPA), Saint Lucia Dive Association (SLDA), Soufriere Marina Management Authority (SMMA), Soufriere Regional Development Foundation (SRDF);

Trinidad and Tobago:

Research, and Fisheries Divisions, Ministry of Food Production Lands and Marine Affairs; Forestry Division, Ministry of Housing & the Environment; Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA); Environmental Management Authority (EMA); Point a Pierre Wildfowl Trust; University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus; Environment Division, Tobago House of Assembly Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, and PETROTRIN..

Geographical Scope: Caribbean Region

Participating Countries:

Bahamas; Dominican Republic; Jamaica; Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago.

GEF project ID: 3183 IMIS number*1: GFL/2328-2713-4A86

Focal Area(s): BD-SP 7: Invasive Species

GEF OP #:

GEF Strategic Priority/Objective:

Ecosystem Management

GEF approval date*: 16July 2009

UNEP approval date: 14/9/2009 First Disbursement*: 22 September 2009 Actual start date

2: 23/9/2009 Planned duration: 48 months

Intended completion date*:

July 2013 Actual or Expected completion date:

22 September 2013

Project Type: Full Size Project GEF Allocation*: US$ 3,034,027 PDF GEF cost*: US$ 225,000 PDF co-financing*: US$ 478,222

3

Expected MSP/FSP Co-financing*:

US$ 3,379,367 Total Cost*:

US$7,116,616

Mid-term review/eval. (planned date):

August 15, 2011 Terminal Evaluation (actual date):

NA

Mid-term review/eval. (actual date):

September 15, 2011 No. of revisions*:

0

Date of last Steering Committee meeting:

12 October, 2010 Date of last Revision*:

0

Disbursement as of 30 June 2011*:

US$ 1,112,420.74 Date of financial closure*:

N/A

Date of Completion4*:

Actual expenditures reported as of 30 June 2011

5:

US$

Total co-financing realized as of 30 June 2011

6:

US$ 900,280.18 Actual expenditures entered in IMIS as of 30 June 2011*:

US$ 620,920.23

Leveraged financing:

7

US$ 217,094.52

Project summary

8

Invasive Alien Species (IAS) are a major threat to the vulnerable marine, freshwater and terrestrial biodiversity of the Caribbean islands and to the people depending on this biodiversity for their livelihoods. Caribbean states have recognised the need for a regional strategy and expressed strong interest in linking their national efforts in implementing Article 8 (h) of the CDB to mitigate the threats of IAS in the Caribbean; they are also contracting parties to several other international instruments addressing IAS threats. The FSP GEF project aims to broaden the approach to dealing with IAS, both by strengthening existing

1 Fields with an * sign (in yellow) should be filled by the Fund Management Officer

2 Only if different from first disbursement date, e.g., in cases were a long time elapsed between first

disbursement and recruitment of project manager. 3 This represents final PDF-A & PDF-B co-financing ($418,100 + $330,122) which totaled $478,222,

rather than $414,299 which was reflected at the time of endorsement. Total Cost has been adjusted upwards accordingly. 4 If there was a “Completion Revision” please use the date of the revision.

5 Information to be provided by Executing Agency/Project Manager

6 Projects which completed mid-term reviews/evaluations or terminal evaluations should attach the

completed co-financing table as per GEF format. 7 See above note on co-financing and Glossary (Annex 1)

8 As in project document

national measures and by fostering regional cooperation frameworks through which Caribbean-wide strategies can be developed. In parallel with participation in the development of national and regional strategies, each country will also address its own most pressing IAS problems through a total of twelve pilot projects, relating to prevention, early detection and rapid response, management and eradication of the most problematic IAS. In all the pilots there is a strong emphasis on capacity building among Government staff and other practitioners, as well as raising awareness of IAS issues among a wider stakeholder group including the general public. The pilots are designed so that their findings are lessons learned will be readily applicable to other sites, including other Caribbean States, enabling replication of the methodologies. Through this combination of synergistic approaches, the project aims to provide the participating countries and others in the Caribbean region with the necessary tools and capacity to address existing and future biological invasions.

Project status FY10

9

The MTIASIC project effectively commenced on September 23, 2009. Both the inception and the first IPSC meetings were successfully held in Jamaica during the week of 26-30

October

2009 with full participation by National Executing Agencies (NEAs) and collaborating agencies. The project management structure: The IPSC; the Regional Project Coordinating Unit (PCU) and the Nation Project Units (NPU) are in place and functional. The IPSC as well as National Steering Committees (NSCs) are in place and functional. A regional project manager and five national coordinators and a part time accountant are in place. Three regional task teams to develop the Caribbean Regional Invasive Species Intervention Strategy (CRISIS) document for Fresh Water; Marine and Terrestrial ecosystems were set up in June 2010 and their capacity enhanced with a training workshop on the “Measurement of Economic Assessment of Economic Impact of IAS in the Caribbean”. The project is on a course to make a significant difference in raising the awareness of IAS issues in the Caribbean. A 16 page booklet (Invasion of the Aliens) targeting all major stakeholders was published and disseminated in 14 member states of CARICOM. It will be made available on the regional Website CIASNET.ORG that the project is developing with USDA/APHIS and others and will go public in August 2010. IAS-related stories some as a direct result of the work of the project has featured in all the countries. The yahoo list serve managed by the project has actively distributed articles, news and views on IAS to approximately 300 members comprising policy makers; technicians; and the NGO community working on various areas of IAS in the Caribbean. The project is to involve the private sector in a significant way in public awareness. An audit of 2009 was completed. Baseline surveys are well advanced and results should be available for all countries before end of year one with the exception of Trinidad and Tobago. Some Pilot projects have begun in Bahamas; Saint Lucia; Jamaica and the others will commence before the end of year one. The Caulerpa taxifolia pilot in TT will have to be replaced as it is not the invasive strain. This should take place by September, 2010 with the return of Rosemary Kishore the IMA’s designated technician on this project. The Jamaican Black river pilot is delayed whilst the scientific rigor of the methodologies to be employed are discussed and agreed with the University of the West Indies and NEPA (Jamaica). The overall project was successful in leveraging additional funds from some international collaborators such as IICA and USDA/APHIS. Additional funds have been leveraged from SPAW; CDB and from the Gulf and South Atlantic Regional Panel on IAS. St Lucia’s implementation is supported by leveraged funds from the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (DWCT), the Soufriere Marina Management Authority (SMMA), the St. Lucia Diver Association (ANBAGLO), the St. Lucia National Trust, and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD), the Government of Montserrat, Direction Régionale de l'Environnement (DIREN, France), Fédération des Conservatoires Botaniques Nationaux (FCBN, France), University of Kent (UK), Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parots (ACTP, Germany) and member of Saint Lucia’s Civil Society

9 Please include additional lines to keep prior year implementation status (if any)

Project status FY11

10

Component One: All National Project Units (NPU) and National Steering Committees (NSCs) are in place and functional. NSCs continue to hold at least quarterly meetings that guide the project implementation and the development of the National Invasive Species Strategies (NISS). These committees are also serving as the mechanism for coordinating national actions on invasive species control and management. In each country there are fresh water, marine and terrestrial technical working groups working to ensure that the NISS adequately addresses the concerns of these ecosystems. The chairpersons of these working groups make up the respective regional working groups. Overall progress of this component is satisfactory. Component Two: The IPSC and the Regional Project Coordinating Unit (PCU) are in place and functioning well. The IPSC held the second of it three scheduled meetings in October 2010 in Saint Lucia. The PMU comprising of the regional project manager and five national coordinators and a part time accountant continues to hold monthly management meetings with minutes documented. Three regional task teams to develop the Caribbean Regional Invasive Species Intervention Strategy (CRISIS) document for Fresh Water; Marine and Terrestrial ecosystems were set up in June 2010 and their capacity enhanced with a training workshop on the “Measurement of Economic Assessment of Economic Impact of IAS in the Caribbean” in June 2010; “Use of IABIN I3N database to make management decision in the control of IAS in the Caribbean” in October 2010; and “Use of Legal Tools in the Management of IAS in March 2011. These regional working groups completed a Draft Regional IAS Strategy and CRISIS plan for Fresh Water; Marine and Terrestrial IAS. The fifth Draft Regional IAS strategy that was circulated for comments nationally; regionally and internationally. Comments were received on the June 24

th deadline and the strategy will be

finalised by July 2011. Component Three: The project is on a course to make a significant difference in raising the awareness of IAS issues in the Caribbean. A 16 page booklet (Invasion of the Aliens) targeting all major stakeholders was published and disseminated in 14 member states of CARICOM in 2010. It is also available on the regional Website CIASNET.ORG that was officially launched in October 2010 in Saint Lucia. IAS-related stories many as a direct result of the work of the project has featured in all the countries. The yahoo list serve managed by the project has actively distributed articles, news and views on IAS to close approximately 450 members comprising policy makers; technicians; and the NGO community working on various areas of IAS in the Caribbean. The project continues to seek engage the private sector in public awareness. The following highlights the active public awareness in each of the Countries: Bahamas:

• Pilot site interpretation materials designed for erection on four (4) pilot islands: New Providence, Eleuthera, Exuma and Andros.

• Article published in Sea Around Us Newsletter by the Experiment Coordinator on The Lionfish Invasion highlighting the progress of the project with respect to the pilot experiment and building capacity amongst local partner organizations.

• Submitted two recent lionfish publications and Sea Around Us Newsletter article to the CARIB-IAS-Threat yahoo group.

• National Executing Agency’s website has been updated on activities in relation to the project and lionfish in general.

• Four articles on the major IAS in The Bahamas submitted to CABI for IAS Magazine in collaboration with local partners; The Bahamas National Trust, The Nature Conservancy and Dolphin Encounters.

• Educational posters to discourage lionfish as aquarium pets have been distributed throughout pilot site islands, and an additional four (4) islands, to pet stores, local primary and secondary schools, government agencies and local partner organizations.

• Brochures developed through the project highlighting the work of the project by all participating countries were also issued to partner organizations, and disseminated

10

Progress made during current reporting period (one paragraph stating key changes since previous reporting period)

during several public outreach initiatives. • An Invasive Alien Species (IAS) Educational Programme was developed in

collaboration with Dolphin Encounters through Terramar Productions. The top five (5) IAS (1-marine, 4-terrestrial) were highlighted by the infamous Sea Rangers, in segments being aired on the national television station, accessible by all islands of The Bahamas.

• Culinary lionfish demonstrations have continued for the project ahead of schedule, with two (2) demonstrations conducted during this period. The Department conducted culinary demos at the annual Agriculture, Agribusiness and Marine Resources Expo also occupying an educational booth distributing lionfish brochures on capture, handling and cleaning, and project brochures on the pilots amongst participating countries. Lionfish demonstrations were also highlighted at the Clifton Heritage Park’s Festival that brought about some 100 persons that learnt how to de-spine lionfish for safe handling, followed by free lionfish samples. Educational materials such as the Bahamas GEF/UNEP project poster, lionfish postcards and capture and cleaning brochures were on also distributed to the public.

• Culinary lionfish demonstrations have continued for the project ahead of schedule, with two (2) demonstrations conducted during this period. The Department conducted culinary demos at the annual Agriculture, Agribusiness and Marine Resources Expo also occupying an educational booth distributing lionfish brochures on capture, handling and cleaning, and project brochures on the pilots amongst participating countries. Lionfish demonstrations were also highlighted at the Clifton Heritage Park’s Festival that brought about some 100 persons learnt how to de-spine lionfish they and also tasted Lionfish. Educational materials such as the Bahamas GEF/UNEP project poster, lionfish postcards and capture and cleaning brochures were on also distributed to the public.

Dominican Republic: • Hosted in collaboration with the Nature Conservancy symposium on “Actions to

Mitigate Invasive Alien Species in the Caribbean”. This was held as part of the Biodiversity Congress on February 4, 2011. A presentation was made on the project that highlighted the work plan and the assessment of biodiversity at the pilot sites.

• Hosted a workshop on “Building Capacity on Evaluation, Control, and Eradication of Invasive Alien Species on Island” held in Santo Domingo 8-10 February, 2011. IC and TNC collaborated on this initiative.

• Began implementing the CEPA plan with two meetings and two workshops with stakeholders at the Cabritos pilot site.

• First draft of a PA booklet on IAS completed. Jamaica:

Staffing • A Public Education and Community Outreach (PECO) Officer was hired

by the Project in January 2011. Draft final schedule of deliverables developed for PECO Officer.

• Developed the Final Draft ToR for Consultant to conduct Jamaica’s Baseline Survey and circulated to NSC for sign-off.

Survey • Partnered with NEPA’s Ecosystems Management Branch and the Social

Development Commission to conduct Baseline survey in the Black River Area. Data collection is completed and analysis has begun.

Publications

• Article published in the Jamaica Gleaner on 29 April 2011 in commemoration of Earth Day entitled “One Billion Acts of Green- Securing Jamaica’s Biodiversity against Invasive Species”

• Article published in the Jamaica Gleaner on 20 May 2011 in Commemoration of International Day of Biological Diversity entitled”

Forests and Biodiversity- Securing Jamaica’s Swamp Forest against Invasive Species”.

Information Sharing

• There is active participation in the Caribbean IAS Threat Yahoo group and information shared with the Moderator for posting including Jamaica’s “Aliens of Xamayca” Newsletter.

• Lionfish Pilot Project Manager gave presentation on the National Lionfish Pilot to Jamaica’s Oceans Council on 12 January 2011.

• NPC made presentation at Portsmouth Primary in St. Catherine as a part of their Jamaica Day celebrations on 25 January 2011. Presentation featured native plant biodiversity, highlighted introduced species and invasive alien species and the impact on biodiversity.

• Conducted radio interview on Power 106 FM on 02 February 2011. The interview focused on the IAS mitigating activities in the Black River Lower Morass.

• Dr. Dayne Buddo, Manager for the Lionfish-Pilot Project embarked upon an information sharing visit to the NOAA Lionfish Research Centre in North Carolina on 09-11 February 2011. The visit resulted in collaboration between Jamaica and NOAA for Component 3 of the Lionfish Pilot which focuses on the development of a passive capture mechanism for Lionfish in Jamaica.

• Participated in Inception workshop for Strengthening the Protected Areas System Master Plan Project on 10 February 2011.

• Attended meetings of the Jamaica Chapter of the Caribbean and Florida, Fire and Invasives Learning Network on 01 March, 28 March and 13 April 2011.

• Conducted radio interview on community based Roots FM on 06 May 2011. The hour long interview highlighted the objectives of the project, the achievements to date and shared with listeners their role in helping to protect our biodiversity from IAS.

• Conducted radio interview on Manchester based Vybz FM on 19 May 2011 to promote the International Biodiversity Day Expo held at the Black River Safari on the same day.

• Participated in the Caribbean and Florida Fire and Invasives Learning Network webinars on 02 May and 27 June 2011.

• The Lionfish Pilot Project Manager and Research Assistant gave a presentation on the National Lionfish Pilot during celebrations of World Oceans Day on 08 June 2011 hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

• Conducted interview with reporter from the Jamaica Observer newspaper regarding Lionfish and a publication in its Sunday Observer dated 26 June 2011 entitled” Weak Lionfish Sales Worry Fishermen”

• Submitted 6 articles to CABI for inclusion in the Midterm IAS Magazine. The tittles are as follows:

ο THE NON-INDIGENOUS SUCKERMOUTH CATFISH, Pterygoplichthys pardalis (Pisces: Loricariidae; Castelnau, 1855), IN JAMAICA by Aisha Jones and Eric Hyslop, UWI Mona, Dept. of Life Sciences

ο The Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri): a new invader to the Jamaican Avifaunal landscape by Ricardo Miller, NEPA

ο Established Invasives Among Us by Monique Curtis, NEPA ο The Lionfish Invasion in Jamaica by Dr. Dayne Buddo, UWI, Mona-

Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory ο Building Knowledge Base for Management of and Public Awareness on

IAS in Jamaica by Suzanne Davis and Dionne Newell, Institute of Jamaica, Natural History Division.

ο Aliens Among Us-Quilted Melania Snail by Monique Curtis, NEPA

Awareness Raising Activities

• Participated in celebration/commemoration of World Wetlands Day at an Expo in the Black River Lower Morass Area on 02 February 2011. Project exhibit included posters and brochures on Project activities highlighting the work being done by the Project in the Black River Lower Morass through the Black River Pilot. Dr. Kurt McLaren Pilot Project Manager for the Black River also gave a presentation to attendees (schools, community groups and government agencies) on threatening IAS activity in the Black River Lower Morass and the research being conducted to mitigate the threats

• Participated in Jamaica 4H Parish Achievement Day at Newell High School in St. Elizabeth on 02 March 2011. A booth was set up featuring posters and brochures on general IAS information, the Regional Project and the Lionfish Pilot. Display included videos on the Lionfish, live Lionfish display, and live demonstrations of the safe handling and preparation of Lionfish.

• Presentation of the Project was made to the NEPA Board on 02 April 2011. • Hosted an Expo in the Black River Area at the Black River Safari in commemoration

of International Day on Biological Diversity on 19 May 2011. The aim of the expo was to highlight biodiversity within wetland ecosystems (The Black River Lower Morass) and highlight the impact the IAS had on these ecosystems. The Expo featured:

ο Posters and brochures exhibiting the importance of wetland and forest biodiversity

ο Posters, brochures and factsheets highlighting the threats of IAS to wetland ecosystems

ο Presentations on the MTIASIC Project, The Black River Pilot, IAS work being done in the area by the National Irrigation Commission and the partnership between the project and the Social Development Commission.

ο Outside radio broadcast between 2:30 – 5pm on Power 106 FM • Lionfish Pilot led by the Research Assistant participated in the Red Cross Youth

Rally. Participation included display of posters and brochures on the MTIASIC project and the Lionfish Pilot, live Lionfish exhibit, and live demonstrations of safe-handling and preparation of the Lionfish.

• The National Coordinator, Pilot Project Manager and Research Assistant collaborated with Rainforest Seafoods to participate in the Jamaica Observer Food Awards on 26 May 2011. The Project’s contribution included a live lionfish display, interactive live demonstrations of safe handling and preparation of Lionfish, posters and brochures. Rainforest Seafood provided the booth space, a Lionfish recipe, and cooked samples for patrons to taste.

• Project participated in Green Expo 2011 on 10-12 June 2011. The Project’s brochure and the fact sheet developed on the Paperbark Tree and Wild Ginger in the Black River Lower Morass were displayed at the main booth. The Children’s exhibit included live specimens of the endangered Jamaican Iguana as well as videos and storytelling on how to safely discard of pet fish without putting the environment at risk. The work of the Lionfish Pilot including live Lionfish display, live demonstrations on safe handling and preparation of Lionfish, posters and brochures were highlighted. The Lionfish exhibit was hosted by the University of the West Indies. Saint Lucia:

• Several articles and reports uploaded to www.ciasnet.org.

• NC submitted for publication “Integrated Management of the Invasive Cocoa Pathogen Moniliophthora roreri” for publication in the Proceedings of the Caribbean Food Crops Society Vol. 46.

• NC contributed a set of recommendations to prevent the introduction of cocoa frosty pod rot to the Banana Industry Trust (BIT), managed a European Commission-funded project entitled “The Rehabilitation and Expansion of the Cocoa Industry in

Saint Lucia”. These were adopted by the project. • Throughout this reporting period, St. Lucia moderated the Carib_IAS_Threat Yahoo

Group. Linkages were established to the www.CaribbeanHub.net which facilitates exchange between professional communities with an interest in combating invasive species, climate change and preserving biodiversity in the Caribbean.

• The 2010 Baseline Awareness Survey recommended that IAS- awareness could be raised most efficiently, if accompanied by continued public education on biodiversity fundamentals and ecosystem functioning. In this context, the OECS Secretariat hosted a series of seminars on the role of protected areas in biodiversity conservation for the media across all independent States of the OECS during in January and February 2011. The first such media seminar was held for the Saint Lucia media at the Bay Gardens Hotel, Rodney Bay, 10-11 January, 2011.

• The general public sensitized towards native biodiversity, as well as to develop better relationships and lasting linkages with stakeholders. Key examples are:

1. A 1.5 hour call-in live talk show on 1 Feb 2011 served to raise awareness of IAS very broadly. It showed Saint Lucians how IAS relates to their daily life. This ranged from biodiversity (native and introduced, including migratory species) and pilot species (alien iguana, lionfish), pet & aquarium trade, epidemics of human and animal diseases among others. This was sponsored by the SLNT.

2. A second 1.5 hour call-in live talk show on the Agenda on 29 March 2011 aimed to raise awareness of World Forest Day. One of the topics covered were feral pigs. This programme was delivered by three Forestry staff.

3. In observation of World Migratory Bird Day, Alwin Dornelly and Adams Toussaint of the Forestry Department gave a 1.5 hour live, call-in interview on The Agenda, Radio Saint Lucia on 9 May. Apart from natural dynamics in bird populations, i.e. through migration, topics relevant to IAS were discussed: importation procedure for bird from abroad, escape of pet parrots and other exotic bird from captivity, educational activities in Saint Lucia and the Caribbean (e.g. Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival), and importance of protected areas, particularly the off-shore islands.

4. The International Day of Biological Diversity is celebrated annually on 22 May. This year’s theme is “Forest Biodiversity” which is in support of the International Year of Forests. This was celebrated with a display on biodiversity: the Caribbean Endemic Bird Exhibition from the 24-27 May 2011 and the JQ Mall. The GEF project contributed to the display, whereas the bulk of the exhibition is supported by MALFF co-finance.

5. The Environmental Education Unit of the Forestry Department secured a page in the weekly youth magazine Yo!, which is annexed to the weekend edition of “The Voice” newspaper. Short articles focus on indigenous and endemic animals and how to protect them. Twelve articles published between 19 March to end of 28 May.

6. Choice Television recorded a 30 minute documentary on terrestrial biodiversity and IAS at the Forestry Department. It was aired on 15 and 16 May. This activity was covered entirely by co-finance.

7. In an attempt to raise awareness and appreciation of the indigenous flora, the Environmental Education Unit of the Forestry Department is organizing a photo competition for secondary school students. Forest photos taken on an official forest trail, between 1 April and 3 June, can be submitted. Prizes are donated by the private sector, staff time is co-finance of MALFF and the Taiwan Ministry of Education (http://forestryeeunit.blogspot.com/search/label/EE%20Unit)

• Led by Saint Lucia’s Fisheries Department and the NC, the project is designing a series of 10-minute radio programmes for raising public awareness on the threats posed by IAS as well as opportunities for the general public to mitigate these threats. The following programmes were aired to date:

i. Introductory programme on 9, 10 and 13 May, 2011, where U Krauss introduced the concept of IAS and gave a preview of programmes to come over the next couple of weeks.

ii. Alien iguanas (Alwin Dornelly and Matt Morton), 11 May and 20 May. iii. Pet trade and IAS, 12 May 2011. iv. Small-scale smuggling of fruit and vegetables or seeds (Gregory Squires), 16 May. v. Construction industry and IAS: all walk of life are exposed to IAS (Ulrike Krauss & Chris Sealys), 17 May vi. Risk assessments (Gregory Squires), 19 May vii. Marine Invasive Species (Allena Joseph), 23 May viii. Lionfish (Allena Joseph), 25 May xi. The importance of off-shore islands (Alwin Dornelly and Matt Morton), 27 May x. Why can’t we keep invasive animals in zoos or repatriate them? (Alwin Dornelly and Matt Morton), 30 May Public Query Day. Expert in Studio: Thomas Nelson is answering questions on Marine Invasive Species, including the recent sighting of seaweed carpets, 1 June xi. Detector dogs as a conservation measure (Liz Seely), 8 June xii. Feral animals as IAS (Alwin Dornelly and Matt Morton), 10 June xiii. Public Query Day. Expert in Studio: Ulrike Krauss is answering questions on Jack Spaniard dynamics and other “boom & bust” population dynamics in relation to IAS and their management, 15 June x. Giant African snail (Gregory Squires) 17 June xi. Evolution and migration (natural range expansion) versus (human-mediated) invasions (Alwin Dornelly and Matt Morton), 22 June

xii. Fire and invasive plants (David Lewis) 24 June Two further programmes were recorded but not yet aired: i. Ornamental plants and IAS (Donatian Gustave) and ii. Weed risk assessment (Donatian Gustave) • Interviews on “Marine Invasive Species” were conducted with “AgriFocus” with Frank

Girad, Saint Lucia Government Information Services, Feb, 2011, and Choice TV to air at prime time (8 p.m.) on 21 April

• Christopher Alexander (SLASPA) gave a 15 min television interview on the National Television Network (NTN), Saint Lucia, 14 June, discussing ballast water, antifouling, and international conventions in the context of IAS prevention. This activity was entirely supported by SLASPA co-finance, but is not included in the financial report.

• A Carnival Band for the July 2011 carnival in Saint Lucia under the theme: “INDIGENOUS ... Enchanting Beauty of Nature” is being planned. The national launch of bands was broadcast on TV on 18 June and re-broadcast several times since then. In addition to regular meeting, invitations were widely circulated by e-mail, two Community Notice Board radio broadcasts by radio on 20 and 21 June and two Community Diary radio broadcasts by radio on 27 and 28 June.

• Saint Lucia collated several articles for the regional Special Bulleting on Current Best Practices in IAS Management in the Caribbean. The following contributions were submitted:

i. Dallmeier, C. (2011) Saving the Saint Lucia Whiptail Lizard and its Offshore Island Sanctuaries

ii. Dornelly, A. (2011) Feral pigs in Saint Lucia iii. Gustave, D. & Sealys, C. (2011) Invasive Ornamental Plants in Saint Lucia iv. Krauss, U. (2011). Trends and Tools in the Management of the Pet Trade as

Pathway for Invasive Alien Species in the Wider Caribbean Region v. Krauss, U. & Sealys, V. (2011). The Construction Industry as Pathway for Invasive

Alien Species vi. Lewis, J.D. (2011). Caribbean/Florida Fire and Invasive Species Learning Network

and Wild-fire and Invasive Plant Species Management in Saint Lucia vii. Williams, R. (2011). Saving the Saint Lucia Iguana from a New, Alien Threat Furthermore, Saint Lucia contributed a section to a co-authored, regional article led by Jamaica, on public attitudes towards IAS management viii. Krauss, C. (2011). Public Attitudes towards Iguana Management in Saint Lucia and

Beyond Finally, Saint Lucia leveraged and pre-edited the following articles fromregional partners

ix. Arnoux, E. & Faivre, B. (2011) Immunoecology and biologic invasion: study of the bare-eyed thrush, Turdus nudigenis, in the West Indies

x. Daltry, J., Lawrence, N., Lindsy, K., Morton, M. & Varnham, K.J. (2011). Methods and effects of eradication black rats from Antigua’s offshore islands.

xi. Rodrigues, C. (2011). The Invasive Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) is Threatening the Endangered Lesser Antillean Iguana (Iguana delicatissima): Brief Report of the Situation in the French West Indies.

xii. Seely, E. (2011) Tucker and the Iguanas Trinidad and Tobago:

• The project continues to distribute information on IAS through its participation in activities hosted by partner organizations. These include a Symposium on the Agricultural Sector, which was hosted by the Ministry of Labour, Small and Micro Enterprises on 25

th May 2011, the EMA’s green lifestyle show on 6

th June 2011, a

Farmer’s Meeting hosted by the Member of Parliament for Toco / Manazanilla on 14th

June 2011.

• The FPR awareness programme is ongoing and at present it primarily consists of training of cocoa farmers’ and agricultural officers. A training session was conducted for agricultural officers on Thursday 14

th April 2011 and the training for farmers is

ongoing and is being implemented by the Cocoa and Coffee Industry Board of Trinidad & Tobago ongoing.

• A brochure on FPR, which highlights the nature, distribution, symptoms and control mechanisms of the disease has been developed and distributed. The project is also collaborating with the Quarantine Department of the Ministry of Agriculture to have 3 digital displays on factors we are attempting to keep out of the country such as FPR, agricultural pest and disease and other IAS installed at the airports. The cost of these displays is being split between the Ministry and the project and the Ministry has agreed to take responsibility for the upkeep of the displays. We are also developing posters on FPR, which will be posted at all other ports of entry

Greater efforts need to be employed to measure the impact of the Public Awareness Component. Baseline surveys: were completed for all countries. Saint Lucia’s is posted on the CIASNET.ORG. The other baseline survey reports are still being compiled and will also be circulated to stakeholders and distributed via the website. 12 pilot projects under components four and five are being implemented in all countries with varying degrees of success. The overall status of implementation is as follows: Component 4: Increased prevention of new IAS introductions impacting global biodiversity St. Lucia: TERRESTRIAL • Off-shore islands are being kept IAS predator free and are being monitored in

collaboration with DWCT as part of an on-going, long-term collaboration. Boat transportation to Rat Island is being provided by Sandals Halcyon Hotel on a regular and reliable basis.

• Ulrike Krauss attended a meeting at the Solid Waste Management Authority (SWMA) on 17 March, during which solid waste originating on ships was discussed. It was decided to invite the SWMA to nominate a representative for the IAS working Group

• On Sunday 10 April, a rat re-introduction of Praslin Island was spotted during a routine check of the sentinel stations there. A plan was effectively to deal with this was coordinated by the project.

• A 12-page brochure was prepared to raise awareness on the off-shore islands in collaboration with DWCT

• A meeting was held with the Environmental Health & Safety Manager and the

Watersports Manager of Sandals Halcyon Beach, Saint Lucia, on 25 May, to discuss: 1. Access to Rat Island (by tourists and assisted by several hotels along the Vigie to

Labrelotte chain of bays) and how best to handle this in partnership with the hotel sector

2. Signage for Rat Island 3. Possibility of conservation training for hotel staff by the Forestry Department so that

they can act as informed tour guides and supervise correct behaviour on Rat Islands 4. Continued transportation to Rat Island by Sandals Watersports (

• Whiptail lizard booklet and possibility to design educational material targeted towards tourists.

• Tim Jn Baptiste studied Wildlife Conservation for his M.Sc. at the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE), University of Kent, U.K., during the academic year 2010/2011. He has a full scholarship from the Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (SCTP) in Germany. He recently decided to conduct his M.Sc. thesis on whiptail conservation and genetics on St. Lucia’s off-shore islands (Maria Islands, Praslin Island, Rat Islands) and prepared a research proposal. AQUATIC

• The 2nd

meeting of the Lionfish Taskforce took place Tue 18 Jan., 2011. A work plan was produced. The lionfish awareness poster was revised, finalized, printed and up-loaded on the MALFF website (http://malff.com/images/stories/press%20releases/Lion%20Fish%20invasion.pdf). Dive ID cards are in draft. A seagrass poster, encouraging the collection of regional information and databases, is also being rolled out. Dive ID cards are in draft.

• A training event “National Marine Invasive Species and Lionfish Stakeholder Workshop” was successfully held 28-29 March 2011. A wide range of stakeholders (fishing coops, tourism, health, marine police, etc.) attended. The safe handling and preparation of lionfish was practiced on five dead specimen imported from the Bahamas. On this occasion two posters were launched to raise awareness of lionfish (300 copies) and alien invasive seagrass (200 copies), respectively.

• Two training events to include monitoring for marine IAS was included in Reef Check Training held at the Fisheries Department on 15 and 19 April. Again, MALFF bore the bulk of the cost while GEF funds had been committed to catering.

• Reef Checks were carried out on 4 & 6 May (Soufriere), 10 May (Le Sport) and 12 May (Maria Islands/Savannes Bay). A report is in preparation.

• The Maria Islands Marine reserve was physically demarcated with permanent markers in May

• A Public Service Announcement (PSA) on Marine IAS was drafted and is currently under review by a panel of technical and communications experts.

• Island-wide marine IAS stakeholder meetings are being planned and prepared in collaboration with stakeholder representatives.

Trinidad and Tobago: The Caulerpa Taxifolia pilot had to be replaced since it was not the invasive strain. This pilot will now be focused on raising awareness of Marine and aquatic IAS in Trinidad and Tobago. It would be executed by the Research Division of the MFPLMA in collaboration with IMA and EMA. Trinidad and Tobago: Frosty Pod Rot

• A database of the information collected during the baseline survey has been developed and a georeferenced map of the farms surveyed prepared.

• The pathway analysis of the possible routes of entry of the disease into Trinidad and Tobago has been completed and the report is currently being amended.

Component Five: Increased capacity to eradicate, and improve control and management of IAS Impacting global biodiversity. Bahamas:

• Site selection and baseline surveys for New Providence nearshore and mangrove sites have been completed with 10 and 3 sites identified respectively.

• An additional pilot site was added to the previous three due to substantially low lionfish densities around New Providence. An alternate island, Andros was surveyed initially verifying 9 sites, with additional 3 sites selected with baseline surveys completed for all 12 coral reef sites.

• Fish community surveys (belt transects and roving diver) and lionfish removals have commenced with quarterly removals executed for Eleuthera coral reef sites through Cape Eleuthera Institute partners.

• Exuma field work has continued collecting fish community surveys to determine the extent of lionfish colonization in mangrove systems.

• The Lionfish Task Team underwent the 1st training for the Level 4 REEF Fish

Identification Course which is the 4th of 5 sessions in the series of training required

for task team members. • Monthly proficiency dives have continued for task team members, reinforcing skills

formulated during previous training sessions, thus facilitating coral reef monitoring around New Providence for marine invasive species and fish community structures.

• Bahamas representative conducted lionfish training in St. Lucia for prevention and early detection with key stakeholders.

• Liaised with scientists familiar with lionfish research in The Bahamas on updating priorities based on research gaps for lionfish, to announce a call for proposal for 3 seed grants. The Gerace Research Centre, a branch of The College of The Bahamas will administer and manage the grants under the project.

Dominican Republic: • Initial baseline studies that were qualitative were repeated to generate quantitative

data for both for vegetation and invertebrates on Alto Velo and Cabritos islands. This included completing a survey for donkeys on Cabritos Island in June 2011 to determine exact size and best location to build a corral for live capture.

• Met with the Stakeholders to organize field activities and plan the life capture of donkeys as primary eradication strategy. Those who expressed interest in life capture of feral donkeys as work animals were registered.

Jamaica: A Memorandum of Understanding was developed and signed between NEPA and the UWI Mona for the implementation of the 3 Pilot Projects in March 2011.

Eradication of Terrestrial IAS Populations: The Iguana Pilot Continuous Removal and Trapping • Trapping of IAS predators in the core Iguana nesting area located in the

Hellshire Hills continued with traps being open everyday and checked 3 times per week. Approximately 60 traps were operational during the period. Thirty nine (39) mongooses were captured and removed from the primary Iguana area during January- June 2011.

• Twenty eight (28) Iguana recaptures were also recorded during the January – June 2011 period.

• Approximately 27 female Iguanas nested in the month of June. This represents a 3 fold increase in nesting females since conservation efforts began in 1991.

Monitoring of 3 Km coast adjacent to Iguana Forest • Weekly surveys were conducted. • High levels of IAS activity were identified along the coast. • Two crocodile nests (protected species) were found deposited along the

coast line. • Camera traps placed close to the one crocodile nest documented the

presence of mongooses, rats, cats and the endangered Jamaica Coney. Annual Pitfall Trapping Survey

• Pre-opening checks were conducted on the 64 traps used for the annual survey.

• The trapping season began with the opening of traps on 08 February 2011. Traps remained opened and checked each day until 16 March 2011 when they were closed to end the first stage of trapping. Traps were again reopened on 27 March 2011 to begin the second stage of trapping and ultimately closed on 08 April 2011 to end the 2011 season.

• All vertebrates found in traps were enumerated and where appropriate (depending on species) weighed, measured and assigned a unique identification mark.

• Data collected in currently being processed. Control and management of marine IAS: The Lionfish Pilot A Research Assistant was hired to assist with implementation of Pilot activities in February 2011. Island wide Distribution • Site visits (Orange Bay, Manchioneal and Port Antonio) and planning

meeting with local Portland Environment Protection Association (Local Environmental NGO) to establish Sub-pilot Sites in Portland conducted on 04 March 2011

• Reconnaissance survey conducted on Pedro Cays on 20-29 March 2011 to assess potential of Pedro Cays as a sub-pilot site and conduct site selection based on assessment. Team consisted of the Research Assistant, volunteers from the Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory and The Nature Conservancy.

• Five (5) of the six target sub-pilot sites have been set up around the Island. These are located in:

o Discovery Bay o Port Royal o Pedro Cays o Portland (Orange Bay, Manchioneal and Port Antonio) o Bluefields

• Three hundred and thirty four (334) belt transect surveys (60 m2 each)

were conducted in Discovery Bay, Bluefields, Pedro Bank, and Port Royal Cays during the period as a part of the population density assessment.

• The National Lionfish Database now has over 371 datasets inputted. The aim is to have 1000 datasets before the database will be made live. Each dataset included information on:

o Location o Depth o Length and weight o Gut contents o Behaviour o Aggregation

• A three night and two day Lionfish larvae samples were taken along the north coast from Port Antonio to Discovery Bay in April 2011.

• The Lionfish Pilot Project Manager and the Research Assistant participated in a 1 week Dive upgrade training in April 2011 to enhance sampling regime and safety in and out of the water.

Prey Preference • Specimen freezer purchased for the Pilot. • Three hundred and fifty eight (358) specimens have been collected

and dissected during the period. Gut content analysis has shown a wide array of prey consisting of over 27 species. These include:

o Shrimps o Crabs o Parrotfishes o Snappers

o Trumpetfishes o Wrasses o Damselfishes

Passive Capture Mechanism • Preliminary information collected from potfishers on Lionfish being

caught in fish pots. • Information from in-water surveys of fish-pots has started • NOAA – Lionfish Lab and REEF will assist in this component. Dr.

James Morris, Dr. Dayne Buddo and Mr. Lad Aikens to share expertise and experience using traps.

Training • Training materials purchased for the Pilot • The Train-the-Trainer Programme on “Safe handling of Lionfish from

sea to plate” was administered to staff (dive shop operators/tour guides, kitchen and medical staff) from the Halfmoon Hotel (07-08 March), Sandals Resorts (15-17 April 2011) and SuperClubs Resorts (05-06 May). Training was administered at no cost to the Project.

• Research Assistant participated in 2 day CPR and First Aid training in March 2011.

• Twelve (12) staff members from the Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory and 11 students from the UWI, Mona were trained in on safe handling and spine removal on 02 June 2011.

Protection measures for site of high conservation value: The Black River Pilot

• UNEP/CABI signed off on the methodology for the Pilot after receiving sign off from the Project’s National Steering Committee.

• The ATV has been purchased. The manufacturers have given a free upgrade in size of the ATV to increase the stability. It is expected that the ATV will arrive in Jamaica by the end of July 2011.

Planned contribution to strategic priorities/targets

11

This FSP project is consistent with GEF-4 Biodiversity Strategic Program 7: Prevention, Control and Management of IAS, addressing the following priorities:

• Strengthening the enabling policy and institutional environment for cross-sectoral prevention and management of invasions through Component 1, where national strategies will be put in place to inform and develop policies, legislation, regulations and management, and through Component 2 which will establish a region-wide IAS strategy and framework for cooperation;

• Implementing communication and prevention strategies that emphasize a pathways and ecosystem approach to managing invasions through Component 3, where knowledge generation and dissemination activities will strengthen access to and implementation of best practices in prevention;

• Developing and implementing appropriate risk analysis procedures for non-native species importations through pilot projects under Component 4, which support and inform Component 1;

• Early detection and rapid response procedures for management of nascent infestations– through innovative and cost effective pilot projects under Component 5;

• Managing priority alien species invasions in pilot sites to ensure conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity also through Components 4 and 5, piloting prevention

11

For Full Size Projects this information is found in the front page of the project Executive Summary; for Medium-Sized Projects the information appears in the MSP brief cover page.

and response measures to biological invasions

2. PROJECT OBJECTIVE State the global environmental objective(s) of the project

12

The goal of this GEF funded initiative is to conserve globally important ecosystems, the species and genetic diversity within the insular Caribbean. This broad goal would be achieved through the project objective which is to mitigate the threat to local biodiversity and economy from IAS in the insular Caribbean, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems.

The above will be achieved through seven components addressing national and regional policy development (Components 1 and 2); information management (Component 3); capacity building to prevent biological invasions (Component 4); early detection, management and eradication of IAS (Component 5); project management (Component 6) and Evaluation (Component 7). The simultaneous implementation of these components and their mutual interaction and knowledge exchange ensures that IAS are addressed at every level necessary within the Caribbean.

The technical implementation aspects of the project are designed as pilot projects within Components 4 and 5. There are a total of twelve pilot projects across the five partner countries, addressing marine, terrestrial and aquatic IAS.

Please provide a narrative of progress made towards meeting the project objective(s). Describe any significant environmental or other changes attributable to project implementation. Also, please discuss any major challenges to meet the objectives or specific project outcomes (not more than 300 words)

The functionality of the NSCs together with the three Regional Task Teams with support from the International collaborators will ensure that the project will successfully achieves ahead of schedule the Regional IAS strategy by July 2011. The Marine CRISIS document and the experience of the project’s Lionfish pilots in the Bahamas and Jamaica will join the efforts of the International Coral Reef Imitative, to successfully develop a lionfish strategy and best practices for lionfish control in the Caribbean. Significant time and resources were dedicated to raising awareness of IAS issues resulted in many publicly aired communications. This was especially successful in Saint Lucia, Jamaica and Bahamas. This trend will continue with the release of the Best Practices manual in September 2011 and the planned international conference carded for 2013. The website was formally adopted as the official website of the CISWIG and CPHDF. It is slowly gaining recognition as a source of IAS information in the Caribbean as reflected in the acceptance of an abstract to present a full paper at the 47

th CFCS meeting. The project continues to build

capacity to prevent the introduction of the targeted IAS such as the Frosty Pod Rot as well as sharing experiences in preventing entry of new IAS into the region. As a consequence of the June 2010 workshop on measuring the economic impact of IAS in the Caribbean the project is now in a stronger position to address a serious gap in IAS information in the Caribbean. Collaboration with UWI and USDA/ APHIS will result in determination of the economic impact of selected IAS in the Caribbean including: Perna virdis, Frosty Pod Rot; Lionfish and Red Palm Mite as well as some other agricultural pests. This will strengthen the case for national and regional policies. The work of the project is being recognised by the regional and international organisations as reflected by invitations to project staff to participate and share experiences at regional and international fora related to IAS and for joint collaboration. The project continues to realize significantly more co-finance both from national executing agencies as well as regional organisations however the challenge continues to get them to document and report these contributions. A major challenge continues to be delays in as the implementation as national executing agencies are more geared to implementing long term programmes as opposed to short term projects.

12

Or immediate project objective

Please provide a narrative of progress towards the stated GEF Strategic Priorities and Targets if identified in project document

13(not more than 200 words)

The MTIASIC project directly supports the attainment of the GEF 4 long term objectives (LTO) and strategic programme (SP) as follows:

1. LTO 2: To maintain biodiversity in production landscape/seascape and sectors and its associated SP 4: Strengthening the policy and regulatory framework for mainstreaming biodiversity.

2. LTO 3: to safeguard biodiversity and associated SP 7: Prevention; control and management of IAS; and

3. LTO 4: Build capacity on awareness and benefit sharing and its associated SP 8: Build capacity on awareness and benefit sharing.

The development of national and regional IAS strategies; three CRISIS documents; a lionfish strategy, in addition to strengthened regional dialogue and active coordinating mechanism support 1 above. Pilots contribute to prevention, control and eradication efforts of invasives that threaten endemic biodiversity and directly contribute to 2 above. Capacity building and information sharing activities directly and indirectly contributes to 3 above.

13

Projects that did not include these in original design are encouraged to the extent possible to retrofit specific targets.

17

3. RATING PROJECT PERFORMANCE AND RISK Based on inputs by the Project Manager, the UNEP Task Manager

14 will make an overall assessment and provide ratings of:

(i) Progress towards achieving the project objective(s)- see section 3.1 (ii) Implementation progress – see section 3.2 Section 3.3 on Risk should be first completed by the Project Manager. The UNEP Task Manager will subsequently enter his/her own ratings in the appropriate column.

3.1 Progress towards achieving the project objective (s)

Project objective and Outcomes

Description of indicator

15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17

End-of-project target

Level at 30 June 2011

Progress rating

18

Objective19

The project objective is to mitigate the threat to local biodiversity and economy of IAS in the insular Caribbean, including terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems.

IAS management framework operational score as recorded by the GEF IAS tracking tool.

Baseline Score at project inception: 7

Baseline Score to improve from 7 to 14.

Baseline Score to improve from 7 to 20.

The capacity building efforts in IAS by the project and partners; greater public awareness and the concrete data being generated on the impact of IAS with the National and Regional strategies being developed these targets can be met.

S

14

For joint projects and where applicable ratings should also be discussed with the Task Manager of co-implementing agency. 15

Add rows if your project has more that 3 key indicators per objective or outcome. 16

Depending on selected indicator, quantitative or qualitative baseline levels and targets could be used (see Glossary included as Annex 1). 17

Many projects did not identify Mid-term targets at the design stage therefore this column should only be filled if relevant. 18

Use GEF Secretariat required six-point scale system: Highly Satisfactory (HS), Satisfactory (S), Marginally Satisfactory (MS), Marginally Unsatisfactory (MU), Unsatisfactory (U), and Highly Unsatisfactory (HU). See Annex 2 which contains GEF definitions. 19

Add rows if your project has more than 4 objective-level indicators. Same applies for the number of outcome-level indicators.

18



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Outcome 1: Increased national capacity to address potential risks posed to biodiversity of global significance from alien invasive species

1.1 National Working groups established in each country

National Steering Committee (NSC) established and operational (year 1)

National IAS group (developed from NSC) established and operational (year 4)

None of the project countries has operational multi-agency coordination mechanism for IAS (except Jamaica)

NSC operational and meeting regularly

IAS working group meets regularly and facilitates inter-agency cooperation including private – public partnerships

National Steering committees active in all participating countries. They are serving as a mechanism for advising on National IAS issues and policies. Participation continues to be from a wide range of government and NGO entities. Sub-groups continue to work on addressing Fresh Water; Marine and Terrestrial IAS issues. Except in Bahamas that is dealing only in Marine. National Chairpersons comprise the Regional working groups.

S

19



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

1.2 National IAS strategy produced for each country

NISS prepared and disseminated to stakeholders in each country (year 4)

Non-technical summary version of NISS produced and distributed (year 4)

No NISS in the project countries (except Bahamas)

Content of NISS developed and in draft

Final versions of full NISS and non-technical summary printed and delivered to stakeholders

Annual IAS data contributions to the Invasive Species Compendium National IAS legislation enacted.

All countries have advanced their NISS. In collaboration with ELI held capacity building workshop on “Legal Tools to address IAS in the Caribbean held in the Bahamas in March 2011.

S

Outcome 2: Increased regional cooperation to reduce risk posed to biodiversity of global significance from invasive alien species

2.2 Draft region-wide invasive species strategies

Draft CRISIS document including marine, fresh water and terrestrial IAS, prepared and disseminated (year 4)

Regional Cooperation Mechanism for IAS in place (year 4)

No detailed treatment of marine, fresh water and terrestrial IAS in CRISIS document

Regional Strategies in preparation

Revised CRISIS document prepared and disseminated.

Third Regional Consultation held in Bahamas in March 2011. Fifth Draft Regional IAS Strategy circulated for comments nationally, regionally and internationally. Strategy to be completed in July 2011.

S

20



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Outcome 3: Access to data and best practice established, and public awareness of IAS strengthened

3.1 Data information and best practice on IAS management collated IAS information available to stakeholders and the public Critical situation Analysis (CSA) for each country finalized and disseminated (year 2)

Best Practice Guidelines on IAS management developed; booklet produced and disseminated (year 4)

Draft CSAs prepared during PPG No best practice guideline available

CSAs completed and disseminated (no mid-term target for Best Practice Guidelines to be produced in years 3 and 4)

CSAs have informed Best Practice Guidelines and Regional Strategies (Output 2.2) Best practice guidelines produced and disseminated

St. Lucia’s CSA completed and posted on CIASNET.ORG. Others expected to be completed before end of year two. Best Practice Guidelines on: “Safeguarding Caribbean Agriculture and the Environment from IAS is being compiled and will be widely distributed by September 2011.

S

S

21



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

3.2 Pilot findings, existing and externally funded IAS related research at national and. regional levels documented Regional lionfish control strategy developed and disseminated (year 3)

Stakeholders (policymakers and practitioners) understand key findings and lessons learnt from pilot projects (year 4)

No regional strategy for lionfish control Solutions to IAS problems addressed by pilots are not well understood

Lionfish pilot project findings documented Stakeholders visits to all pilot sites

Regional lionfish strategy disseminated to identified stakeholders (paper copy) and electronically via website Key findings and lessons learnt disseminated to key stakeholders Stakeholder questionnaire shows good understanding of pilot projects

Project is part of the ad hoc Regional Lionfish Committee that was formed following the regional Lionfish Workshop in Mexico 24-28 August, 2010. PM and Marine Biologist from Jamaica, attended write shop to produce a best practise manual for the control of Lionfish in Miami in April 2011. Project is contributing the policy component of the manual.

S

22



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

3.3 Electronic networking systems, including linkages to GISP, GISIN and IABIN established Project website operational (year 1)

Linkages to GISP, GISIN, and IABIN websites Project findings disseminated trough invasive species Compendium (ISC)

No project website No linkages to other database ISC under development

Project website for internal use Linkages to other websites functional ISC launched

Project website available as a global resource Up-to-date project information provided to other databases Project findings included in ISC

Continuous regional (and beyond) knowledge exchange via Carib_IAS_Threat YahooGroup CIASNET.ORG to endorsed and adopted by CISWIG and the CPHDF as the official site for IAS information in the Caribbean. Private domain operational. Gaining wider usage.

S

23



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

3.4 Public communication media and measures developed Pilot project activities and findings disseminated through public communication media

Public awareness of IAS increased Private sector actively engaged Human and technical capacity to prevent biological invasions strengthened Prevention or early detection and response to invasions by target IAS in pilot areas

Little or no publicity of the IAS problems addressed by pilot projects Low public awareness of IAS issues No staff in target areas trained specifically in IAS prevention methods Pilot areas free of target areas

Public awareness baselines addressed Target stakeholders agreed, including in private sector

Public awareness of pilots increased by 20% Staff and trainers trained with assigned IAS responsibilities in relevant institutions and private sector Monitoring plans in place and operational

Public awareness campaign active in all countries. Newspaper articles and TV features aired in all participating countries. Project flyers; posters and demonstrations and outreach done in all countries. Public perception surveys completed in Bahamas and the Dominican Republic. 26 Articles received for inclusion in Best Practices Magazine. Deficiency still exist in measuring impact of the very active PA programme.

HS

24



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Outcome 4: Increased prevention of new IAS introductions impacting global biodiversity

4.1 National capacity to prevent biological invasions strengthened (Trinidad and Tobago and Saint Lucia) St. Lucia Increased capacity of field staff to monitor for biological invasions

Continued absence of IAS threatening rare endemic reptiles on Maria Islands pilot site (10 hectares)

No IAS posing threat to rare endemic species No systematic monitoring in place

No IAS posing threat to rare endemic species Baseline survey completed by year 1 Staff trained Detailed activity plan in place Private sector engaged

No IAS posing threat to rare endemic species Monitoring plan developed, with buy in from majority of stakeholders

Terrestrial: Off-shore islands continue to be kept IAS (predator) free through surveillance and baiting operations. Private sector (hotels) is providing in-kind support to ongoing monitoring activities conducted with the DWCT. 12 page brochure prepared with DWCT to raise awareness of offshore islands A full scholarship from the Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (ACTP, Germany) was secured for Timotheus Jn Baptiste to conduct his MSc thesis on whiptail conservation and genetics on St.

S

25



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Trinidad and Tobago Increased ability of stakeholders to detect and report occurrences of Frosty Pod Rot (FPR) for all cocoa growing areas of TT – 6,900ha

National emergency plan developed and operational

FPR absent from T&T Little knowledge about FPR No emergency plan in place

FPR absent from T&T Rapid survey completed by year 1 Trainers train Private sector engaged Pathway analysis completed Hotline established

FPR absent from T&T 3 trainers and 60 stakeholders trained in field identification and reporting of FPR Continuous monitoring for FPR in place with private sector buy-in

Key stakeholders trained in field and laboratory identification of FPR. Geo-referenced map of farms survey prepared. Surveillance ongoing by MALMA and CCIB. Hotline established. Pathway analysis 60% completed.

S

26



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Outcome 5:20

Increased capacity to eradicate, and improve control and management of IAS impacting global biodiversity.

5.1 Incipient invasions of marine IAS detected and prevented (Trinidad and Tobago) Populations of Caulerpa taxifolia tested to identify non-native strain

Non-native strain eradicated where present Monitoring system developed and operational (coastal areas of TT with emphasis on west coast)

Unknown strain of Caulerpa in coastal waters

Distribution of non-native strain surveyed by end of year 1 Field staff trained in control methods

Non-native population of Caulerpa eradicated Regrowth of seagrass beds Monitoring system in place to detect re-occurrences

The strain has been since identified as the non invasive strain. This pilot is being reformulated for the PA of marine and aquatic IAS and will held executed by the MFPLMA in collaboration IMA and EMA.

MU

20

Add rows if your project has more than 5 Outcomes.

27



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

5.2 Populations of invasive animals and plants (Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Saint Lucia Eradicated) Dominican Republic Pilot

Abundance & distribution of threatened native species (birds & reptiles) in pilot sites (Alto Velo, 100ha), Cabritos, 2,400 ha) determined (baseline)

Presence and abundance of target IAS determined (baseline)

Eradication strategies developed & implemented Post-eradication monitoring of IAS and threatened native species

Dominican Republic Pilot

Native species (e.g. Anolis lizard) threatened by IAS Current status of IAS in pilot sites unknown


Baseline data available by end year 1 Eradication strategy developed


Post-eradication monitoring data available

Target IAS absent from pilot sites Increased abundance of species threatened by target IAS

Initial baseline survey was qualitative. A quantitative survey repeated in June. The NSC finalised eradication plans following input from IC (California) and IC (Mexico). The proposed strategy of live removal of animals will not yield 100% eradication and CABI will only approve this method for a limited period of two months. Some neem removed from Alto Velo. Role identified for Grupo Jaragua to do post eradication surveillance and verification.

MS

28



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Jamaican Pilot

Abundance & distribution of native iguana on Goat Islands (52,000ha) determined (baseline)

Eradication strategies for target IAS developed & implemented Adaptive management plan for Goat Islands in place

Jamaican Pilot

Non-native predators threatening native iguanas on Goat Islands

Current status of IAS in pilot sites unknown

Jamaican Pilot

Baseline data available by end year 1

Eradication strategy developed

Rangers & other stake-holders trained

Jamaican Pilot

Post-eradication monitoring data available

Target IAS absent from Goat Islands Adaptive management plan in place

Baseline surveys completed. Summary report available. Endemic iguana population responding to control of IAS in Hellshire hills. Breeding population increasing. However, plans to create off shore sanctuary in Goat Island in Jeopardy as the owner the Urban Development Corporation has not signed off on this plan.

MS

29



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Saint Lucia pilot:

Surveys of native and exotic iguana population in Soufriere at beginning (baseline) & end of project (impact).

Live trapping grid established & implemented

Exotic iguana population removed

Saint Lucia:

No data on abundance & distribution of exotic iguanas, or impact on native iguana populations

Saint Lucia:

Baseline data available by end year 1

Live trapping grid established

Field staff, dogs & dog-handlers trained

Saint Lucia:

Exotic iguana population absent from pilot site

Canine and Handler from the Center of Conservation, University of Washington assisted with locating alien iguanas and their nests. Plan in place to have a more sustained assisted canine surveillance Two day training conducted to standardize and improve capture methods. New recruits successful in finding iguanas. Two articles published in the journal “Reptiles and Amphibians. In addition to a newspaper article and flyer.

S

30



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

5.3 Marine IAS controlled and managed (Bahamas, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago)

Bahamas & Jamaica pilots:

Baseline data on lionfish incidence available (year 1)

Lionfish collection & handling protocol in place (year 1)

Effective control method for lionfish identified (year 2)

Policies & regulations in place to facilitate lionfish management (year 4)

Adaptive management plan for lionfish in place in both countries (year 4)

Regional lionfish control strategy developed and disseminated: see Output 3.2

Bahamas & Jamaica:

Accurate baseline data on lionfish incidence not available

Control methods poorly understood

No coordinated response mechanism

Bahamas & Jamaica:

Baseline data collected and analysed by end year 1

Collection & handling protocol developed

Most effective control method identified from population control experiment (Bahamas)

Bahamas & Jamaica:

Policies & regulations on lionfish control & management in place

Adaptive management plan in place

Bahamas and Jamaica: Research on ecology and control ongoing. Baseline data collected and available. Database established. Collection and handling protocol in place. Training ongoing. National response plans in place. Bahamas: An additional pilot site was added to the previous three due to substantially lower lionfish densities around New Providence. Fish community surveys and removal ongoing. Surveys to determine colonization in mangroves initiated. Research needs updated prior to call for proposal for 3 seed grants. Jamaica: Five of the six sub pilot sites have been set up around the island. 364 Belt transect surveys completed. And data entered in database. Prey preference studies initiated. Collection of info on passive capture initiated

HS

31



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Trinidad & Tobago pilot:

Baseline data on green mussel distribution available (year 1)

Environmental impact of green mussel determined in coastal areas of T&T with emphasis on west coast (year 1)

Economic impact of green mussel determined (year 2)

Effective method for control & management identified & tested (year 4)

Trinidad & Tobago:

No data available on environmental & economic impacts of green mussel

No coordinated management strategy in place

Trinidad & Tobago:

Baseline data available (year 1)

Data on environmental (by end year 1) & economic impacts of green mussel available

Field staff trained

Trinidad & Tobago:

Effective control & management methods identified

Improvement in community structure associated with green mussel at pilot sites

Baseline surveys and ecological assessment completed in north-western and south-western and southern areas of Trinidad. Taxonomic identification of a large no of specimens collected is ongoing. Economic impact study initiated with UWI.

MS

32



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

5.4 Protection measures for sites of high conservation value (Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago)

Jamaica pilot (Black River Morass RAMSAR site, 5,700ha):

Ecosystem evaluation completed (year 1)

Baseline map of pilot area (year 1)

Target species removed (year 4)

Native species re-established by replanting (year 4)

Adaptive Management Plan in place (year 4)

Mapping after project interventions

Jamaica (Black River Morass):

No baseline data available for pilot site


Ecosystem evaluation completed (by year 1)

Baseline map available (by end year 1)

Native species nursery established


Target species removed from pilot area

Area replanted with native species

Adaptive Management Plan in place

UNEP/CABI and NSC agreed on the way forward. ATV purchased prolonged due to procurement practices in Jamaica. Manufacture granted upgrade in size to ensure stability. To arrive at the end of July.

MS

33



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Trinidad & Tobago pilot (Nariva Swamp, 3,600ha):

Plant IAS removed from pilot area (year 3)

Native palm seedlings re-established (year 4)

Incidence of invasive palm pests (red palm mite & coconut moth) determined (every 2 months)

Pest control methods developed & implemented (year 4)

Trinidad & Tobago (Nariva Swamp):

No baseline data on impacts of plant and pest IAS in pilot area


Baseline survey of invasive palm pests (red palm mite & coconut moth) by scoring leaf infestation levels (by end year 1).

Palm seedlings collected and nursery established

Baseline survey of indicator native palm species Moriche Palm (Mauritia flexuosa) and Trinidad Royal Palm (Roystonea oleracea) by end year 1.


Plant IAS eradicated in pilot area

Population of indicator palm species increased by 15% over baseline in project area (estimated by transect sampling)

Risk posed by invasive palm pests (red palm mite & coconut moth) determined (by scoring leaf infestation levels)

Pest control methods developed & implemented

Baseline survey ongoing. Initial results show that the 11 species of palms present in the Nariva Swamp, a Ramsar site. With the Moriche Palm the main source of food for the blue and gold Macaw being severely affected by the Red Palm Mite. Finalising plans for a UWI student to undertake economic impact of RPM in the Nariva area.

MS

34



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

Output 6: Effective project management and coordination; monitoring and evaluation (M&E)

6.1 Project deliverables produced on time and within budget

International project office operational (year 1)

National project offices operational (year 1)

Detailed Project Plan in place (year 1)

Accounting system in place (year 1)

Progress & financial reports to time (continuous)

No project structure in place

No detailed Project Plan

Project offices operational

Project Plan in place and implemented

Reports produced to time

All project outputs delivered on time

Project deliverables in components one two and three are on or ahead of schedule. Half of the pilot projects are significantly behind time but plans are in place to speed up implementation 2010 Audit submitted on time. Quarterly financial reports being submitted on time. Plans in train for mid-term evaluation.

S

35



15

Baseline level16

Mid-term target17



Progress rating

18

6.2 Effective M&E framework in place

M&E Plan finalized (year 1)

M&E Plan implemented (continuous)

External audits conducted (annual)

M&E Plan in draft form

M&E Plan being implemented to time

Two external audits competed

All M&E targets met

Four external audits competed

2009 Audit completed M&E Benchmarks being used in Project Management Meetings. Weekly communication with NC being instituted to ensure quality and timely delivery

S

Outcome 7: Independent evaluations

Mid-term evaluation completed (year 2)

Terminal evaluation completed (year 4)

N/A--+- Mid-term evaluation completed

Terminal evaluation completed

Plans in train for evaluation in September

Not appropriate at

this time.

Overall rating of project progress towards meeting project objective(s) (To be provided by UNEP GEF Task Manager. Please include columns to reflect all prior year ratings) FY2009 rating

FY2010 rating

FY2011 rating

Comments/narrative justifying the current FY rating and explaining reasons for change (positive or negative) since previous reporting periods

N/A S S

Action plan to address MS, MU, U and HU rating (To be completed by UNEP GEF Task Manager in consultation with Project Manager) Action(s) to be taken By whom? By when?

36

This section should be completed if project progress towards meeting objectives was rated MS, MU, U or HU during the previous Project Implementation Review (PIR) or by the Mid-term Review/Evaluation (To be completed by Project Manager). Problem(s) identified in previous PIR

Action(s) taken By whom When

Under Outcomes 4 and 5, specific pilot activities received MS and MU ratings due to delays in specific pilot start ups and disagreements on methodologies.

Continuous action is taken by the Project Manager, Actions were taken with the DR, Jamaica and T&T National Project Coordinators on the occasion of the October 2010 International Steering Committee Meeting.

UNEP Task Manager October 2010

3.2 Project implementation progress Outputs

21 Expected

completion date

22

Implementation status as of 30 June 2010 (%)

Comments if variance23

. Describe any problems in delivering outputs

Progress rating

24

Output 1.1. Produce national IAS strategy for each country

B D J S T S

Activity 1: Establish National Steering Committees Y1Q2 100 100 100 100 100 S Activity 2: Develop content of NISS Y2Q4 95 50 70 80 65 S Activity 3: Prepare and disseminate NISS Y4Q2 60 15 25 40 10 S Activity 4: Prepare non/ semi-technical version for wider dissemination

Y4Q2 0

NA to be done in year 4

Output 2.1. Develop national and regional coordination mechanisms for a regional cooperation framework

Activity 5: Establish International Project Steering Committee (IPSC)

Y1Q2 100 HS

Activity 6: Regional Consultation on Fresh Water IAS

Y1Q4 90 90 90 90 90 S

21

Outputs and activities as described in the project logframe or in any updated project revision. 22

As per latest workplan (latest project revision) 23

Variance refers to the difference between the expected and actual progress at the time of reporting. 24

To be provided by the UNEP Task Manager

37

Outputs 21

Expected completion date

22

Implementation status as of 30 June 2010 (%)

Comments if variance23

. Describe any problems in delivering outputs

Progress rating

24

Activity 7: Regional Consultation on Marine IAS Y1Q4 90 90 90 90 90 S Activity 8: Regional Consultation on Terrestrial IAS Y1Q4 90 90 90 90 90 S

Output 2.2. Develop draft region-wide invasive species strategy

S

Activity 9: Meeting to develop regional IAS Strategy

Y2Q1 90 90 90 90 90 S

Activity 8: Prepare draft CRISIS for Fresh Water IAS

Y4Q2 75 75 75 75 75 S

Activity 10: Prepare draft CRISIS for Marine IAS Y4Q2 75 75 75 75 75 S Activity 11: Prepare draft CRISIS fo

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