SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION OF COASTAL HABITATS AND SPECIES

BOOK OF ABSTRACTS

October 1-2, 2020Hotel “Baltvilla”

Senču prospekts 45, Baltezers, Latvia

LIFE CoHaBit Project International Closing Conference

SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION OF COASTAL HABITATS AND SPECIES

BOOK OF ABSTRACTS

October 1-2, 2020Hotel “Baltvilla”

Senču prospekts 45, Baltezers, Latvia

LIFE CoHaBit Project International Closing Conference

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Coastal Habitat Conservation in Nature Park “Piejura”

LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900September 1, 2016 – March 31, 2021Beneficiaries:

Carnikava Municipality/ www.carnikava.lvRiga City Council, City Development Department, Riga Municipality/ https://www.rdpad.lv/Nature Conservation Agency of Latvia / www.daba.gov.lvAssociation “Baltic Coasts” / www.baltijaskrasti.lv

Website: dabasparkspiejura.lv

Dabas parks Piejūra

@DPiejura

@dabasparkspiejura

Dabas parks Piejūra

Compiled by Agnese Rudusāne.Printed on FSC certified paper.

The conference takes place within the framework of the European Union, European Commission “GreenWeek 2020”as Partner event.

The LIFE CoHaBit International Closing Conference is organized with the financial support of European Commission LIFE Programme and the State Regional Development Agency Repub-lic of Latvia Administration of Latvian Environmental Protection Fund, within the framework of project “Coastal Habitat Conservation in Nature Park “Piejura”” (LIFE CoHaBit, LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)The report contains only the vision of the LIFE CoHaBit project developers. The European Com-mission Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.

© Carnikava Municipality, 2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction 5

Conference Plan 7

Nature park “Piejūra” (Natura 2000 site) 16

Coastal erosion and coastal habitat management in the Nature Park “Piejūra” 17

Combating of invasive alien plant species in Nature Park “Piejūra” 19

Succession in dune habitats in the Nature Park “Piejūra”, Latvia 21

Fixed coastal dune restoration in NP Piejūra in the framework of LIFE Co-HaBit project 23

Wooded dune restoration in NP Piejūra in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project 25

Evolution of the dunes associated with coastal habitats in the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, southeast of the Iberian Peninsula 27

Mapping of the ecosystem services of the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park for the management of coastal habitats 29

Costal lagoon habitat (1150*) and species recovery in venice lagoon by increasing the fresh water input and restoring the salt gradient 31

Boreal Baltic coastal meadows in Latvia: distribution and current conservation degree 33

Maintenance and restoration of coastal meadows and lagoons in Nature Park “Piejūra” 36

Strategic communications approach to biodiversity communication – case of project GrassLIFE 38

Communication with public trough LIFE CoHaBit Project implimentation 40

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INTRODUCTION

Welcome!

We would like to highlight the LIFE CoHaBit project as a significant and ambitious na-ture project. For the first time in Latvia wooded dune habitat restoration works took place in relativelly big areas. Together with other works performed in the project - the restoration of coastal grasslands, lagoons, gray dune habitats, and combating invasive species - we have reached main goal of the project- mitigated the heavy anthropogenic pressure and restored the vulnerable coastal habitats in Nature Park ‘Piejura’ (Latvia), Natura 2000 site.This conference will provide you with information and experience in three main topics:

Management of coastal habitats and species for the conservation of nat-ural diversity;

Management of coastal habitats and species and preservation and resto-ration of lagoon and natural / semi-natural grassland habitats in Europe;

Public information and involvement in nature diversity conservation measures

We are pleased that representatives not only from Latvia as project partners and in-volved stakeholder organizations, but reprezentatives also from the Spain, Italy, Bul-garia and are participating in the conference, offering their views and experience on topical issues.We hope that the conference will provide valuable information, understanding and new awarenes and into the important role of habitat restoration work and future sustainable management.

Yours sincerely, Gundega Ulme, Manager of LIFE CoHaBit Project, Carniakva Munici-pality

Initiative Daru labu dabai — Way to Protect and Conserve Biodiversity 41

Conservation of costal habitats in Atanasovsko lake natura 2000 site, Bulgaria 45

Evolution of monitoring of the project`s LIFE CoHaBit socio-economic impact on the local economy and population, example of the Nature Park “Piejūra” 47

Evaluation of the success of habitats management and restoration in Nature Park “Piejūra” 50

Evolution of the subaerial part of coastal slope in the Nature Park “Piejūra”, Gulf of Riga, 1990-2020 52

Implementation of conservation and management measures of coastal habitat type 1630 Boreal baltic meadows in Vakarbuļļi, Riga City in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project 54

Project LIFE CoHaBit Demo site Carnikava 55

Protecting the coastal dunes against erosion in LIFE CoHaBit project Demonstration site Mangalsala, Riga City 57

Solutions of Nature Management Planning – example of Nature Management Plan of Nature Park “Piejūra” 59

Sustainable restoration and management measures of grey and wooded dune habitats in Nature Park “Piejūra”, LIFE CoHaBit project 61

Wildlife management and conservation actions in the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park within the framework of the LIFE Salinas project 63

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CONFERENCE PLAN

October 1, 2020 – Thursday

October 2, 2020 - Friday

9.00 - 15.00

Daugavgrīva, Carnikava (Rīga and Carnikava Municipality); start-ing at Hotel “Baltvilla” Senču prospekts 45, Baltezers, Latvia

Field trip to LIFE CoHaBit project sites where were multiple ap-proaches (methods) have been carried out within Project imple-mentation for coastal habitat preservation and restoration

8.30 – 18.30

Hotel “Baltvilla” Senču prospekts 45, Baltezers, Latvia

Presentations, Poster sessions, Demonstrations of LIFE CoHaBit mobile application, short films

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OCTOBER 1, 2020 - CONFERENCE DAY 1CONFERENCE PROGRAM

PRESENTATIONS

8.30-17.10

Hotel “Baltvilla” Senču prospekts 45, Baltezers, Latvia. Forest hall, 1st floor Watch recording of the conference on the project website: dabasparkspiejura.lv

08.30-9.00 Registration – Forest hall, 1st floor

9.00-9.10 Daiga Mieriņa, chairman of the Carnikava Municipality (TBC)

9.10-9.30 LIFE CoHaBit Project. Gundega Ulme, Carnikava, Municipality, LIFE CoHaBit Project manager

1st session – Management of coastal habitats and species for the conservation of natural diversity

9.30-9.50 Nature park “Piejūra” (Natura 2000 site). Ilze Priedniece, Latvian Fund For Nature

9.50-10.10 Coastal erosion and coastal habitat management in the Nature Park “Piejūra”. Jānis Lapinskis, Association Baltic Coasts, University of Latvia

10.10-10.30 Combating of invasive alien plant species in Nature Park “Pie-jūra”. Inga Hoņavko, Nature Conservation Agency of Latvia

10.30-10.50 Succession in dune habitats in the Nature Park “Piejūra”, Latvia. Brigita Laime, Association Baltic Coasts, University of Latvia

10.50-11.10 Fixed coastal dune restoration in NP Piejūra in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project. Agnese Jeņina, Association Baltic Coasts

11.10-11.30 Wooded dune restoration in NP Piejūra in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project. Gundega Ulme, Carnikava Municipality, LIFE CoHaBit Project Manager

11.30-11.50 Discussion

11.50-13.00 Lunch

2nd session – Management of coastal habitats and species and preservation and restoration of lagoon and natural / semi-natural grassland habitats in Europe

13.00-13.20 Evolution of the dunes associated with coastal habitats in the Sa-linas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, south-east of the Iberian Peninsula. Danny Ibarra, University of Murcia, LIFE Salinas project

13.20-13.40 Mapping of the ecosystem services of the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park for the management of coastal habitats. Diana Hernández Mármol, University of Murcia, LIFE Salinas project

13.40-14.00 Costal lagoon habitat (1150*) and species recovery in venice lagoon by increasing the fresh water input and restoring the salt gradient. Andrea Bonometto, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, LIFE Lagoon Refresh project

14.00-14.20 Boreal Baltic coastal meadows in Latvia: distribution and current conservation degree. Rūta Sniedze-Krelatova, Latvian Fund For Nature

14.20-14.40 Maintenance and restoration of coastal meadows and lagoons in Nature Park “Piejūra”. Daina Bojāre, Nature Conservation Agency of Latvia

14.40-15.00 Discussion

15.00-15.30 Coffe break

3nd session – Public information and involvement in nature diversity conserva-tion measures

15.30-15.50 Communication, public involment and cooperation within LIFE CoHaBit Project. Sandra Voskāne, Carnikava Municipality

15.50-16.10 Initiative Daru labu dabai — Way to Protect and Conserve Biodi-versity. Elīna Pekšēna, Pasaules Dabas Fonds, associated partner of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)

16.10-16.30 Discussion

*Possible changes in agenda

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POSTER SESSION

16.30-18.00

Hotel “Baltvilla” Senču prospekts 45, Baltezers, Latvia. Forest hall, 1st floor

Poster session – Palm hall 4th floor

16.30-18.00 Poster session. Demonstration of LIFE CoHaBit documentary short films. Buffet dinner.

Poster Conservation of costal habitats in Atanasovsko lake natura 2000 site, Bulgaria. Diyana Kostovska, Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation, Lagoon of LIFE project

Poster Evolution of monitoring of the project`s LIFE CoHaBit socio-eco-nomic impact on the local economy and population, example of the Nature Park “Piejūra”. Agnese Jeņina, Association Baltic Coasts

Poster Evaluation of the success of habitats management and resto-ration in Nature Park “Piejūra”. Daina Bojāre, Nature Conservation Agency of Latvia

Poster Evolution of the subaerial part of coastal slope in the Nature Park “Piejūra”, Gulf of Riga, 1990-2020. Jānis Lapinskis, Association Baltic Coasts, University of Latvia

Poster Implementation of conservation and management measures of coastal habitat type 1630 Boreal baltic meadows in Vakarbuļļi, Riga City in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project. Laura Veinber-ga, City Development Department of the Riga Municipality

Poster Project LIFE CoHaBit Demo site Carnikava. Agnese Rudusāne, Carnikava Municipality

Poster Protecting the coastal dunes against erosion in LIFE CoHaBit project Demonstration site Mangalsala, Riga City. Laura Veinber-ga, City Development Department of the Riga Municipality

Poster Solutions of Nature Management Planning – example of Nature Management Plan of Nature Park “Piejūra”. Inga Hoņavko, Na-ture Conservation Agency of Latvia

Poster Sustainable restoration and management measures of grey and wooded dune habitats in Nature Park “Piejūra”, LIFE CoHaBit project. Agnese Jeņina, Association Baltic Coasts

Poster Wildlife management and conservation actions in the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park within the framework of the LIFE Salinas project. Antonio Zamora Lopez, Uni-versity of Murcia, LIFE Salinas project

Closing

18.00-18.15 Conference closing

*Possible changes in agenda

OCTOBER 2, 2020 - CONFERENCE DAY 2

FIELD TRIP TO LIFE COHABIT PROJECT SITES

Where measures for the restoration and conservation of coastal habitats have been taken using various methods. A bus will be provided for the tour. Those who will not be able to participate in the tour will be able to watch the tour in video format after the conference

9.00 Registration coffe

9.30 Departure from Hotel “Baltvilla” to Daugavgrīva

10.30 Lagoon habitat restoration and invasive alien species combat in LIFE CoHaBit project

11.30 Lunch

12.00 Departure to Carnikava

13.30 Wooded dunes, grey dunes, habitats, costal habitat restoration and cos-tal erosion in Carnikava

15.00 Departure to Hotel “Baltvilla”

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ABOUT LIFE COHABIT PROJECTThe main aim of the project Coastal Habitat Conservation in Nature Park “Piejura” (LIFE CoHaBit LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900) is mitigation of the heavy anthropogenic pressure and restore the vulnerable coastal habitats in Nature Park ‘Piejura’ (Latvia), Natura 2000 site. The main activities of LIFE CoHaBit project where:

y Nature Management Plan - inventory of habitats and species and update of plan; y Costal habitat restoration- habitats - 1150*, 1630*, 2110, 2120, 2130*, 2180, 9010* y Mitigation of the antropogenic pressure on vulnerable coastal habitats; y Monitoring of the impact of the project actions; y Communication activities

LIFE COHABIT SITE “DAUGAVGRĪVA”Daugavgrīva  is a neighbourhood in North West  Riga,  Latvia  on the left bank of the Daugava river. Part of the Daugavgriva territory is included in the nature park “Pie-jūra”. LIFE CoHaBit project in this area focused on coastal lagoon habitat restoration. Coastal lagoons- EU habitats of priority- are very rare habitats in Latvia and throughout the region. There are found species of national protection - Ruppia maritima, Batrachi-um baudotii, Spergularia salina, Montia fontana, Atriplex calotheca.The greatest part of Daugavgriva nature zone (60-75%) is covered by reeds. In wet sum-mers they spread significantly on the account of coastal lagoons, therefore limitation of the plantation is required in the territories of Daugavgrīva. These habitats are the nesting places for several protected bird species.The implementation of restoration measures of coastal lagoons was as a new, inte-grated complex of measures, based on new findings and guidelines where removal of reeds was one of the sub-tasks for habitat conservation.

LIFE COHABIT SITE “CARNIKAVA”Carnikava is located in Vidzeme, Latvia, on the shores of the Gulf of Riga. Carnikava is located about 30 km from the national capital Riga, and includes a big part of the nature park “Piejūra” (NATURA 2000 site). Statistically 90% of the area of nature park

“Piejūra” in located in Carnikava. In Carnikava there are 16 out of 24 EU habitats iden-tified in nature park “Piejūra”.The greatest natural value is pine forests and seaside with sandy beaches and dunes. The most represented habitats in Carnikava are 2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (“white dunes”), 2130 Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (“grey dunes”) and 2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic,Continental and Bo-real region. The implementation of restoration measures of coastal habitats for the first time in such large areas in Latvia wre performed. Project LIFE CoHaBit made a valuable contribution to the restoration of nature at the national level, as well as raising public awareness and educating them about the need to preserve natural values and the methods by which to do so.

ABSTRACTS OF THE CONFERENCE

PRESENTATIONS

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Nature park “Piejūra” (Natura 2000 site)Ilze Priedniece

Latvian Fund For NatureIlze.priedniece@ldf.lv

Nature Park “Piejūra” was founded in 1962 to protect dune forests, dunes and the beach, including the coast from Vecāķi to the Gauja estuary. In 1999, the nature park was ex-panded to cover the area from Vakarbuļļi to Inčupe. In 2002, it was included in the Na-tura 2000 network of protected areas of European importance as a “C” type site (an area designated for the protection of specially protected species and specially protected habitats).The nature park as a Natura 2000 site was established to preserve coastal habitats, wooded dunes and boreal forests, as well as to provide protection for species such as Lutra lutra, Cottus gobio, Aspius aspius, Rhodeus sericeus amarus, Dianthus arenarius, An-gelica palustris, pine forests and beach typical bird species. This is an important place to ensure the migration of anadromous fish species in the estuary of the Gauja. Several lakes, especially Garezeri, are important feeding grounds for bats. The area has a high landscape value, which is mainly determined by the relief of dunes, undisturbed forest cover with the presence of especially old pines and relatively little modified coastline.The nature park is located in the territory of Riga city, Carnikava and Saulkrasti counties, its total area is 4180 ha (data of the nature data management system “Ozols”). It is home to dune, forest, meadow and aquatic habitats and associated plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species, typical of the coastal conditions of the Boreal region.In the territory of the nature park, 24 habitats of EU importance have been identified, which in total occupy 84% of the territory of the nature park. The most represented are 2180 Wooded coastal dunes, 2130 * Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes) and 9010 *Western taiga. Special value in the nature park is habitat 1630 * Boreal baltic coastal meadows.The nature park has been recognized as one of the five most important places in the European region for the birds Sterna albifrons and the Anthus campestris.The current restrictions on economic activity have contributed the formation and pres-ervation of the territory’s natural values. The natural values found in the nature park are most threatened by a high anthropogenic load, as the area is intensively used for recre-ation, therefore, increased attention should be paid to the planning of the flow of visitors. The natural values of gray dunes and grasslands can disappear in the future without proper management.

Coastal erosion and coastal habitat management in the Nature Park “Piejūra”

Jānis LapinskisAssociation Baltic Coasts,

Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of Latviajanisl@edu.lu.lv

IntroductionIn many cases long-term stability of modern sea shores and quality of coastal habitats are interdependent. The geological structure and development history of the coasts are very important in finding a solution to the problems caused by coastal erosion, as ero-sion prevention and habitat management measures must promote the restoration of the natural balance (before anthropogenic disturbances) and restore the coastal status quo as much as possible.The peculiarities of the modern coast at the top of the Gulf of Riga have developed in the Holocene, combining the alluvial sediment of large rivers (Daugava, Gauja and Lielupe) and the powerful inflow by the long-shore sediment drift. A low and flat coastal landscape has developed, which has historically been dominated by sediment accu-mulation. In the 20th century, since the Daugava HPP cascade provides a very altered hydrological regime for the river, including a dramatic reduction in alluvial runoff, con-ditions in the coastal area of the NP “Piejūra” have also begun to change. In the 1950s and 1960s, coastal section at the eastern pier of the Daugava river receded by about 60-80 m. The retreat of the coast has also significantly intensified at the mouths of the Gauja and Lielupe rivers.

Material and methodsOn the shore of DP “Piejūra”, since 2018 “dune planting” and “dune fencing” anti-ero-sion measures were implemented in several key sections to preserve and restore the primary and secondary dunes. The main goal was to reduce the risk of wind erosion in the existing problem areas and to maintain the continuity of coastal processes to improve the quality of recreation in the area, in parallel of ensuring the restoration of primary dune habitats in places where they have been damaged.

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Results and ConclusionsIt was found that in most of the implementation areas the accumulation of sand brought by the wind took place in the amount of approximately 3.0-5.0 m3/m/year, which sig-nificantly exceeded the background level. Particularly active accumulation took place in the immediate vicinity of the branch fences (mainly on the leeward side), as well as in a strip about 5-10 m wide near the reed fences. Two summers after the implementation the very significant initial accumulation rate has decreased, but it should be noted that the implemented measures are “self-sufficient” and their functionality will remain for several years even if the fences are not restored. By installing new fences in the existing location, the volume of the accumulation body could be increased even faster.Accumulation has also been more active in the area where the dune grasses were plant-ed than in the adjacent coastal areas. In areas where grasses were planted (as opposed to fencing sites), the effect could only be fully felt after several years. One summer after implementation the rate of sand accumulation is not particularly high.

Combating of invasive alien plant species in Nature Park “Piejūra”Everita Zaķe-Kļaviņa, Inga Hoņavko

Nature Conservation Agency of Latvia, LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)

everita.zake-klavina@daba.gov.lv inga.honavko@daba.gov.lv

Key words: invasive alien plant species, coastal habitats, combating of invasive spe-cies, LIFE CoHaBit, NP “Piejūra”.

IntroductionInvasive alien species (IAS) are recognized as one of the main threats to the biodiver-sity in the world. Uncontrolled distribution of IAS changes natural habitats vegetation structure and species composition, rare species are threated and can disappear rapidly. Nature Park “Piejūra” (NP “Piejūra”) is located on the Southern coast of the Gulf of Riga, occupying about 7 % of the total length of the Latvian coastline – 36 km long and 0,5 – 2  km wide belt from Vakarbulli to Inčupe, and includes mouths of three large rivers – Lielupe, Daugava and Gauja. NP “Piejūra” is important for the protection of rare coastal habitats – coastal meadows, embryonic shifting dunes, white dunes, grey dunes, wooded dunes, coastal lagoons, rivers, and mesotrophic lakes. Diversity of grey and wooded dunes, lagoons and coastal grasslands is threatened by the spread of IAS. The most widespread IAS in NP “Piejūra” are Rosa rugosa, Lactuca tatarica, Solidago canadensis, Impatiens glandulifera, Amelanchier spicata and Aronia melanocarpa.

AimConservation of quality and biodiversity of dunes, lagoons and coastal grasslands by combating of IAS was the aim of special habitats management action within the LIFE CoHaBit project.

MethodsVarious biotechnical measures have been applied to combat IAS - removal of plants and roots, cutting of shrubs, mowing and grass removal. Finally, appropriate disposal of plant residues was performed.

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Results and conclusionsDirect measures have been taken in more than 60 ha within Riga and Carnikava munic-ipalities to limit the spread of invasive alien plant species Rosa rugosa, Lactuca tatarica, Solidago canadensis, Impatiens glandulifera, Amelanchier spicata and Aronia melanocar-pa in NP “Piejūra”. Methods for controlling the spread of these plants have been tested, lessons learned, and conclusions were summarized:

y Measures to limit the spread of IAS are effective if multiple factors are taken into account during the planning of site management - the type of plant spread, seed germination and phenological conditions (time of plant flowering and seed ripen-ing in the specific year).

y The sustainability of the results would be enhanced by the choice of appropriate methods. In the first years, it is recommended to use handiwork and hand tools that is more careful and minimise the unwanted impact on other plants.

y The costs – effective and long-term sustainability of the combating of IAS can be reached by regular implementation of the combating works – permanent main-tenance and regular monitoring of the results to adjust the frequency, scope and methods used. Effective combating measures should be initiated as early as pos-sible and simultaneously in all connected and infested areas.

y Public information, education and society involvement in the combating of IAS also play an important role in the maintenance of the results and would conserve “clean” areas.

Succession in dune habitats in the Nature Park “Piejūra”, Latvia

Brigita Laime, Didzis TjarveDepartment of Botany and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia

brigita.laime@lu.lu didzis.tjarve@lu.lv

IntroductionCoastal dune habitats belong to a very dynamic ecosystems which depend directly on sand deposition and other physical factors. Along the coast of the Nature Park “Pie-jūra” accumulation processes are dominated and one of the largest open dune areas in Latvia there is formed. The development of coastal dune habitats was significantly affected 15 years ago by strong storm. Nowadays, a total area of primary dunes (hab-itats 2110 Embryonic shifting dunes and 2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes)) is 71 and of grey dunes (2130* Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation) 280 hectares, and wooded dunes (2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic, Continental and Boreal region) reaches 2770 hectares. All of these hab-itats are influenced by sea coast visitors, land use change, coastal processes, invasive plant species, eutrophication and other pressures and threats.Evaluation of habitat quality was focused on grey dune habitats, their vegetation suc-cession.

Material and methodsIn a period from 2006 to 2020, changes in open dune habitats were observed in two monitoring stations (Daugavgrīva and Lilaste), located on the southern coast of the Gulf of Riga. Vegetation structure, plant species composition and cover were char-acterized in 178 plots (each plot 1 m x 1 m), placed along six transects from beach to wooded dunes.

ResultsDuring last 15 years tree (Pinus sylvestris, Betula pendula) and shrub (Salix daphnoides) cover in grey dunes is significantly increased. Tree and shrub litter is abundant in many plots; it forms a thick layer and directly influences the development of humus layer. Bare soil patches are absent or very rare (sample plot is covered with litter or dead grass). On some plots mosses Pleurozium schreberi and Hylocomium splendens domi-nate and form a layer of 5 or more centimeters, and lichens are absent or can be found in small patches. The abundance of invasive plant species Lactuca tatarica increases in open dune habitats.

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ConclusionsThe area and quality of grey dune habitats in the Nature Park “Piejūra” decreases rap-idly. Overgrowing with trees and shrubs is the main threat. In both monitoring stations, number of characteristic plant species of grey dune habitat decreases. Active manage-ment (cutting of trees, removal of litter and topsoil) is necessary in grey dune and some wooded dune areas.

Fixed coastal dune restoration in NP Piejūra in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project

Laura VeinbergaRiga City Council, City Development Department,

Riga Municipality LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)laura.veinberga@riga.lv

IntroductionGrey dunes - Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation *2130 is situated in a zone almost along the entire coast of the Baltic sea in the Nature Park “Piejūra” (NAT-URA 2000). This habitat occupies 279,7 ha of park territory and is one of the most endangered habitats in the park. Gray dunes are affected by coastal erosion, anthro-pogenic pressure, afforestation, and the spread of alien plants. In order to reduce the impact of negative factors and protect this sensitive habitat, various measures were implemented within the framework of the LIFE CoHaBit LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900 project during years 2018 to 2020 in the territories of Riga and Carnikava municipalities.

Material and methodsThe selected methods for dune protection have been recommended by project habitat experts and have been tested in similar locations with similar problems both in Latvia and in Europe. Previous experience was also taken into account and the current state of the habitat in the park was assessed. In order to improve the conditions of the dune habitat, several complex solutions were used in the park for the first time: pines and shrubs were cut down, leaving only a few trees per hectare to promote the formation of the mosaic vegetation typical of gray dunes. In addition with foredune strengthening with the pine and reed fences, cutted pine branches were placed in gray dunes, in plac-es where sand flows have formed due to intensive visitor flows and wind. The invasive alien species like Lactuca tatarica found in the dune in territory of Riga and Carnika-va was uprooted several times during the years. Informative signs about the park and wooden trails were installed in the park, as well as residents were informed about the works and their progress in various information channels.

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ResultsIn general, in the Nature Park “Piejūra” during LIFE CoHaBit project 27,94 ha grey dunes have been managed and it is expected to have a positive effect directly on 115,08 ha on grey dune habitat. The material used for dune strengthening fences has been obtained right in the park, during the management of wooded dunes and lagoons. Also, in order to promote public education, informative signs have been installed about the nature values and their protection.

ConclusionsIt is too early to provide an assessment of the impact of the measures taken on the gray dune biotype, but there are already positive observations regarding vegetation re-generation in visitor-driven and wind-blown dunes. Long-term monitoring will provide concrete evidence of improvement.In order to ensure favorable habitat conditions and reduce threats in the future, it is nec-essary to carry out timely monitoring and take the necessary measures in the long term.

Wooded dune restoration in NP Piejūra in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project

Gundega Ulme Carnikava Municipality, LIFE CoHaBit Project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900) Manager

gundega.ulme@carnikava.lv

IntroductionHabitat 2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic,Continental and Boreal region is located in a zone almost along the entire coast of the Baltic sea in the Nature Park “Piejūra” (NA-TURA 2000). The wooded dunes were planted 60-80 years ago, but have never been maintained. They are densely fused, creating adverse habitat conditions. It is important to restore the habitats, thus not losing them in the future. In order to protect and restore this sensitive habitat, various measures were implemented within the framework of the LIFE CoHaBit LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900 project during 2018 to 2020 in the territories of Riga and Carnikava municipalities.

Material and methodsEnvironmental expert’s evaluation report on restoration and management measures of coastal habitats was developed. Following the expert’s evaluation report additional research and field studies has been carried on to develop a work plan and description of the method for the restoration and management works in coastal habitats. The work plan was developed in close cooperation with the forest experts of the landowner in Riga municipality - enterprise LLC “Riga Forests” (SIA “Rīgas meži”) and in Carnika-va municipality -   Joint Stock Company “Latvia’s State Forests” (Latvijas Valsts meži). Based on the work plan developed by the experts basic felling calculation was provided by LLC “Riga Forests” and Joint Stock Company “Latvia’s State Forests”. Data layers for GIS (.shp) were developed.

2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic,Continental and Boreal region. Habitat restoration works were carried out on an area of 9,5 ha in Riga (Mangaļsala), 63 ha in Carnikava and 75 ha i Lilaste. For the first time in Latvia in such a big areas these kind of works was done. Tree thinning works were performed with the traditional forest technique, cre-ating openings ~ 0.1 ha in diameter. Leaving groups of ecological and landscape trees untouched.

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Results and conclusionIn general, in the Nature Park “Piejūra” during LIFE CoHaBit project 148 ha wooded dune habitats have been improved and it is expected to have a positive direct effect on 555 ha on wooded dune habitats. Implemented actions will have a positive impact on habitats: 2180 and 2130. It is an-ticipated that the coastal habitat restoration actions will also have a positive effect on the EU (Annex II of Directive 92/43/EEC) protected plant species Dianthus arenarius ssp. arenarius as well as on the EU (Article 4 of Directive 2009/147/EK) protected bird species Bubo bubo, Lullula arborea.

Evolution of the dunes associated with coastal habitats in the Salinas y Arenales

de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, southeast of the Iberian Peninsula

Danny Ibarra, University of Murcia, LIFE Salinas projectA. D. Ibarra1, P. Escudero2, D. Hernández3, G. Ballesteros-Pelegrín4,

F. Belmonte-Serrato5, J. Sánchez-Balibrea6

1 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, adaniel.ibarra@um.es

2 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, pedro.escuderol@um.es

3 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, adaniel.ibarra@um.es

4 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, gabp1@um.es

5 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, franbel@um.es

6 Asociación de Naturalistas del Sureste, Pintor Párraga, 11, Murcia araar@asociacionanse.es

Introduction:Coastal dunes are unique transitional ecosystems and are characterized by the pres-ence of highly specialized flora. Dune degradation can have many causes. The varia-tion in the morphology of the dunes is directly related to that of the vegetation and, in general, the distribution and density of the species varies spatially along a sector of the coast. Furthermore, vegetation is a great indicator of the geomorphological processes that occur in the dunes.The study area is located in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula. The coastline faces east, between 37. 79º and 37. 84º N latitude and 0. 75º E longitude. It is an area located within the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, southeast of the Iberian Peninsula. The predominant winds come from the east-northeast and the area usually suffers from storm surges in early autumn. Sometimes the waves reach most of the dune areas, although during the year, the significant wave height does not exceed one meter. the Port of San Pedro del Pinatar, cuts the coastal drift (n-s), producing a shadow effect that affects the dune-beach system in such a way that, while the beaches located to the south of the maritime work have been eroded during the last decades, the sediments the beaches located to the north.The aim of this work has been to study the influence of the different dune habitats on the development and erosion of the dunes.

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Material and methods:To carry out this work, Geopackage format cartography has been used of the habitats present in the dune field of the beaches of Torre Derribada, Las Salinas, Barraca Que-mada and Punta de Algas.For the modelling of the dunes a digital elevation model (DEM) has been built from Laser imaging, detection, and ranging (LIDAR) data. These data were taken from a plane in the years 2009 and 2016. The taking of altimetries to correct the DEM has been done by measuring heights in the field. Once the models have been built, the erosion/accretion of the dunes has been calculated and the result has been crossed with the habitat data.

Results:In both dune fields, habitat 1420, Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi) was the largest, with just over 40 ha in total. The areas of habitat that eroded the most during the period 2009-2016 were those that contained the association of habitats 1210,1420 and 2250 in the southern zone, in which the height of the dunes lost an average of 0.125 m. In contrast, the association containing habitats 1210 and 2110 together remained stable over the same period.

Conclusions:Although the spatial resolution of the Lidar data is good, a higher temporal resolution is missing. For the study of the evolution of the geomorphology and the relationships between habitats and dunes, the availability of long-term data is necessary.The accuracy of LIDAR data allows the identification of vegetation through data classifi-cation, however the sand that accumulates in low vegetation prevents a correct classifi-cation of vegetation from LIDAR data.In order to deepen the vegetation-dune relationships, the flight of drones is necessary. The price of their use, allows to increase the temporal resolution and to choose the quantity of points taken.

Mapping of the ecosystem services of the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park

for the management of coastal habitatsDiana Hernández Mármol, University of Murcia, LIFE Salinas project

D. Hernández1, A. D. Ibarra2, F. Belmonte-Serrato3, G. Ballesteros4, J. Fernández5.

1 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, diana.h.m@um.es

2 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, adaniel.ibarra@um.es

3 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, franbel@um.es

4 Departamento de Geografía. Laboratorio de Geomorfología. Campus de la Merced. Universidad de Murcia, gabp1@um.es

5 Salinera Española, S.A. jfernandez@salineraespanola.com

Introduction:The Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park is a protected natural area with a surface area of 856 hectares, located in the southeast of the Region of Murcia (Spain). Salt mining has been carried out here for centuries, the main reason for which the conservation of the fauna and flora present in the Regional Park has been promoted. With the aim of improving the state of conservation of two priority habitats and various species of birds, the European Project LIFE Conservation of habitats and water birds in the SCI and SPA ES0000175 “Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pina-tar” LIFE17 NAT/ES/000184 (LIFE Salinas) is being developed from September 2018. Within the framework of the Project’s conservation objectives, an exhaustive analysis of the numerous ecosystem services offered by the protected area is carried out, un-derstanding ecosystem service (Millennium Assessment, 2003, 2005) as the benefit that people receive from the ecosystems. The main objective of this study is to provide a representation of the main ecosystem services of a unique and protected coastal natural area such as the Salinas y Arenales Regional Park in San Pedro del Pinatar. This will involve increasing awareness of coastal habitats and highlighting the importance of their proper management. Cartography is useful to spatially identify management problems. Likewise, they are a communication tool where the locations of the services can be visualised and their relevance to the user explained.

Material and methods:The analysis of ecosystem services is based on the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services (CICES), developed from work on environmental accounting by

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the European Environment Agency (EEA). The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment classified ecosystem services by distinguishing between provisioning, regulating and maintaining, and cultural services (Millennium Assessment, 2003, 2005).In order to define the ecosystem services inside the park, landcover has been photo-in-terpreted and digitized. Each ecosystem service is made up of several landcover units. For the digitalization and management of the spatial data, free software QGIS has been used, from which a dataset with the units has been built. The photo interpretation has been made from the photographs of the National Plan of Aerial Orthophotography of the National Geographic Institute of Spain.

Results:Of the 90 ecosystem services recognized by CICES, a panel of experts formed by the agents involved in the Salinas LIFE Project determined the existence of at least 32 in the protected area. On the other hand, based on the use of Geographic Information Tech-nologies, several coverage units were identified. The main ones that make up the Sali-nas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Park are salt ponds (442.55 ha), an area known as Las Encañizadas, a shallow area that connects the Menditerranean Sea with the Mar Menor lake (162.80), dune systems (120.91 ha), port (23.34 ha), salt substrate flecks, which allow nesting water birds (43.75 ha), Posidonia oceanica meadows (2042.16 ha) beaches (16.17 ha) and access and communication routes of the park (2.69 ha).

Conclusions:Ecosystem services are a fundamental tool for defining protected coastal zone man-agement areas. The use of mapping has enabled the mapping of ecosystem services, further increasing capacity and ease of management.

References:Haines-Young, R. and M.B. Potschin (2020): Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services (CICES) V5.1 and Guidance on the Application of the Revised Structure. Available from www.cices.eu Millennium Assessment (2003). Ecosystems and Human Well-being. A Framework for assessment. Island Press. Washington. Millennium Assessment (2005). Ecosystems and Human Well-being. Synthesis. Island Press. Washington.

Costal lagoon habitat (1150*) and species recovery in venice lagoon by increasing the fresh water input

and restoring the salt gradientAndrea Bonometto, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research,

LIFE Lagoon Refresh projectBonometto A.1, A. Feola1, E. Ponis1, F. Cacciatore1, F. Oselladore1, M. Cornello1,

R. Boscolo Brusà1

1 All from Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, ISPRA. Corresponding author: andrea.bonom-etto@isprambiente.it

IntroductionDuring last centuries, the Venice lagoon experienced a strong increase of water sa-linity, due to the river diversion outside the lagoon and to the deepening of the three lagoon inlets that led to higher seawater influence.The alteration of the hydrological patterns has strongly reduced the reedbed surface, affecting the conservation status of bird and fish species related to these habitats. Moreover, the loss of reedbed reduced the self-purification capacity of the inner area of the Venice lagoon, with negative impact on the conservation status of surrounding subtidal habitat (1150* Coastal lagoons).The Life Lagoon Refresh project involves the restoration, in the northern Venice La-goon, SCI IT3250031, of the ecotonal environment, typical of microtidal lagoons, characterized by a marked salt gradient and large intertidal areas vegetated by reeds (mainly Phragmites australis). The project aims to exploit the ecosystem services pro-vided by this environment to achieve the following objectives:

1) to improve the Degree of Conservation of habitat 1150* - Coastal lagoons:a. recreating the typical estuarine oligo-mesohaline environments;b. reducing the degree of eutrophication, thanks to reed phytoremedia-

tion function, favoring the presence of sensitive species and aquatic plants of high ecological value;

2) to improve, within the Venice Lagoon - SPA IT3250046, the status of bird spe-cies included in annex I of the Birds Directive (Dir. 2009/147/EC) and using the reed environment during the winter period and /or for breeding, foraging or nesting: Phalocrocorax pygmeus*, Botaurus stellaris*, Ardea purpurea, Ixobry-chus minutus, Circus aeruginosus, C. cyaneus, Alcedo atthis.

3) to increase the presence of the fish species Ninnigobius canestrinii, included in the annex II of the Habitats Directive (Dir. 92/43/EEC), attracted by low-salinity environments.

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Material and methodsIn order to meet the project’s objectives, two main groups of conservation actions are implemented:

1) Recovery of the hydrological and morphological patterns by:a. diversion of a freshwater flow of approximately 1000 l/s from the Sile river

into the Lagoon, necessary for the recreation of oligo-mesohaline areas;b. restoration of the intertidal morphology through the implementation of

biodegradable structures, properly arranged in order to slow down the fresh water dispersion and to favor the reed development according to the project configuration;

2) trigging and fostering the recovery of the reedbed and aquatic angiosperm meadows by:

a. planting of clump of little plants and rhizomes of Phragmites australis;b. transplantation of small dumps of Ruppia cirrhosa and Zostera noltei.

Numerical modelling was used as a supporting tool to investigate the circulation pat-tern and to define the most suitable project configuration.Fishermen and hunters, who regularly frequent the SCI IT3250031, are involved in the reed and seagrass transplant actions. Effectiveness of all conservation actions is estimated throughout the project by an en-vironmental monitoring, including water and sediment quality evaluation, intertidal and benthic vegetation mapping, assessment of the biological quality elements status (sen-su Dir. 2000/60/EC) and of bird population.

Results and conclusionHydraulic and morphological works were completed in February 2020. Since May 2020, fresh water is flowing back from the Sile river into the lagoon. The intake works by gravity as a function of the difference in water level between the Sile river and the lagoon, with discharge variations that depend on the tidal regime. The starting flow rate set at 300 l/s (daily average) gradually will be increased over time up to 1.000 l/s. The monitoring of the salinity is recording the effect of the fresh water input. The monthly averaged salinity, within an area of 20 ha close to the intake, decreased from values close to 35 units to values close to 25 units after the first month, with minimum values lower than 5. The values show high fluctuations as a function of tidal levels.Transplanting of P. australis clumps and aquatic angiosperms started in summer 2020. First results of vegetation growing are expected in spring/summer 2021. First signal of the improvement of the conservation status of 1150* Coastal lagoon habitat, fish and birds species are expected in the next two year.

Boreal Baltic coastal meadows in Latvia: distribution and current conservation degreeRūta Sniedze-Krelatova, Latvian Fund For Nature

ruta.sniedze@ldf.lv

IntroductionBoreal Baltic coastal meadows (habitat code 1630*) is a priority habitat of EU impor-tance. Coastal meadows occur in the Boreal region of Europe, mainly in Estonia, to a lesser extent in Finland, Sweden, Latvia, and Lithuania (Rūsiņa, 2017). These grassland habitats are characterized by very high biological diversity determined by the gradient of salinity changing towards inland, the impact of the sea waves and ice, as well as meadow management (Lotman, Lepik, 2004). Nearly all semi-natural grassland plant communities known in Latvia occur in a mosaic-type pattern in the largest coastal meadow areas (Rūsiņa, 2017). According to the latest Article 17 report of Latvia, the overall assessment for habitat 1630* was unfavorable‐Bad, decreasing (Anon, 2019). This research aimed to find out the conservation degree of Latvia’s coastal meadows. 

Material and methodsAccording to official data in Latvia, 80 grassland polygons of habitat 1630* are regis-tered (DAP, 2020). In Latvia, coastal meadows occur rarely and unevenly, mainly near the Liepaja Lake, near Mērsrags, around the estuary of the Lielupe River and Buļļusala, as well as close to the border with Estonia in Randu meadows. Field surveys were done in the period from 2015 to 2018 according to the mapping methodology for semi-nat-ural grasslands (Anon, 2016). A field survey form was filled-in for each grassland pol-ygon. The following parameters were assessed: species richness per 1m2 and species composition; grassland structure; past and current management regime; natural processes, and anthropogenic impacts (Lārmanis, 2014). The conservation degree of grassland habitats was evaluated by using the method for botanical quality assessment for semi-natural grassland habitats developed by LVAEI (2013). Some additional land-scape-level indicators were used for overall assessment (Lotman, Lepik, 2004).

ResultsGIS data analysis resulted in 209.8 ha of grasslands referring to the habitat type 1630* with the average area of a polygon (the smallest homogeneous mapping unit) 2.9 ha. Almost all of them (93%) were located in Natura 2000 sites, while 5 polygons occurred outside protected areas. The largest share of the coastal meadow area was not man-aged or was managed unregularly. As a result, expansive species like Phragmites aus-tralis and Calamagrostis epigeios were dominating the vegetation (63 % of all polygons), and excessive litter layer was developed. However, overgrowing by shrubs and trees was not yet observed. Plant species richness measured as the number of species per

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25m2 was low in over a half of all polygons (<25 species per plot), and no one polygon exceeded >40 species per plot. The number of semi-natural grassland indicator species (IDS) varied between 1 and 11 species per polygon. The majority (97%) of all polygons were poor in IDS (<5 IDS in 25m2 plot), indicating that the abandonment has initiated the simplification of plant communities. However, the cumulative cover of IDS was still high in 37% and medium in 47% of polygons, suggesting the high potential for success-ful habitat restoration.

ConclusionsThe lack of regular grazing and/or mowing has driven many typical species to extinc-tion, while expansive species, particularly the reed, has expanded extremely. Only 10% of the total area of Baltic coastal meadows was in good conservation degree, namely, in Natura 2000 site ‘Vītiņu meadows’ while the rest corresponded to the low or in some cases to the medium conservation degree.

References:Anon., 2016. ES nozīmes biotopu izplatības un kvalitātes apzināšanas un darbu organ-izācijas metodika. Dabas aizsardzības pārvalde, Sigulda, 35 lpp. https://www.daba.gov.lv/upload/File/DOC/BIOTOPI_met_160722.pdfAnon., 2019. Ziņojums Eiropas Komisijai par ES nozīmes biotopu (dzīvotņu) un sugu aizsardzības stāvokli Latvijā. Novērtējums par 20013.‐2018. gada periodu. https://www.daba.gov.lv/upload/File/Publikacijas/REP_EK_2019_1_ES_dzivotnu_stavoklis_LV.pdf

DAP 2020. Dabas datu pārvaldības sistēma OZOLS. https://ozols.gov.lv/pub

Lārmanis V. (red.). 2014. Bioloģiski vērtīgo zālāju kartēšanas metodika. 2. izdevums. Dabas aizsadzības pārvalde, Sigulda, 67 lpp.Lotman K., Lepik I. 2004. Coastal meadow as a habitat. Coastal meadow management. Best Practice Guidelines. The experiences of LIFE-Nature project “Boreal Baltic Coastal Meadow Preservation in Estonia” LIFE00NAT/EE/7083. Ministry of the Environment of the Republic of Estonia, Tallin, 98

LVAEI 2013. Lauku attīstības programmas (LAP) 2007-2013 Agrovides apakšpasākuma “Bioloģiskās daudzveidības uzturēšana zālājos” novērtējums. Atskaite Lauku attīstības programmas 2007-2013 (LAP 2007-2013) Nepārtrauktās novērtēšanas sistēmas (NNS) ietvaros. Latvijas Agrārās ekonomikas institūts, Rīga, https://www.arei.lv/sites/arei/files/files/lapas/Bioloiskas_daudzveidibas_uzturesana_zalajos_petijums_2013.pdf

Rūsiņa S. (red.) 2017. Aizsargājamo biotopu saglabāšanas vadlīnijas Latvijā. 3. sējums. Dabiskās pļavas un ganības. Dabas aizsardzības pārvalde, Sigulda.

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Maintenance and restoration of coastal meadows and lagoons in Nature Park “Piejūra”

Daina BojāreNature Conservation Agency of Latvia, LIFE CoHaBit project

(LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)daina.bojare@daba.gov.lv

Key words: management of Boreal Baltic coastal meadows 1630*, management of Coastal lagoons 1150*, Nature Park “Piejūra”.

IntroductionNature Park “Piejūra” is one of the most significant Natura 2000 site in Latvia for con-servation of Boreal Baltic coastal meadows 1630* and Coastal lagoons 1150* form-ing a complex system of coastal habitats. Coastal meadows cover 28 ha of the Nature Park or a sixth of the total area of the habitat in Latvia and are a unique habitat hosting rare halophyte plant species Trifolium fragiferum, Armeria maritima, Angelica palustris, Gladiolus imbricatus, and Triglochin maritimum. The habitat complex is situated in the Daugavgrīva Island of the Nature Park, Riga City.In 1980’s, cattle grazed the area and ensured the maintenance of grasslands; later, the management became irregular, and accumulated thatch, growth of trees and shrubs, as well as expansion of the common reed Phragmite australis and decrease in biodiver-sity. The quality of lagoons has declined due to artificially changed hydrological condi-tions, and the inflow of brackish waters is very limited and can be observed only during strong storms.The project aimed at improving the quality of coastal habitats by targeted restoration actions resulting in decrease in the extent of the common reed, increase in open water areas, improving vegetation structure and species diversity, as well as improved condi-tions for breeding, resting and feeding of lagoon’s bird species.

MethodsThe following activities were carried out to improve habitat quality: cutting trees and shrubs, mowing and collecting grass and reeds, removal of thatch and reed litter by harrowing.

Results and conclusionsRestoration activities covered 9.4 ha of the coastal meadow and lagoon complex. As the result, the vegetation structure has become more optimal, and the number of rare and characteristic species is expected to increase. The overall extent, density and height of the common reed have decreased in the area. It has opened new paths for breeding birds near the banks of lagoons, including the rare Eurasian bittern Botaurus stellaris. In general, ecological conditions have significantly improved for marsh angelica Angelica palustris, and an increase of the population is expected in nearest future.

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Strategic communications approach to biodiversity communication – case of project

GrassLIFELiene Brizga-Kalniņa

Latvian Fund for Nature, GrassLIFE projectliene.brizga@ldf.lv

Nature is one of the most important values of Latvian people – historically tied closely together with establishment of independent nation and state (Schwartz, 2006), consid-ered to be unique (Kantar, 2017) and indicated as a factor that most of all fosters posi-tive attitude towards Latvia (Kantar, 2018) [Kantar TNS]. People also express readiness to act and change their habits (84%) in environmentally friendly way (SKDS, 2019). At the same time the state of biodiversity in Latvia is declining - the Latvian report to Eu-ropean Commission on progress and implementation of Article 17, Habitats directive, shows that only 10% of habitats have favourable conservation status (DAP S.a.). Also, there can be observed existence of two parallel realities of environmentalism in Latvia – the official one and people’s reality (Pavasars, 2016) and most people are not aware of, e.g. actions of LIFE programs (Kantar TNS, 2017). Nature conservation practitioners often experience negative attitudes towards implementation of practical nature con-servation measures. At the same time nature conservation institutions and NGOs are carrying out various awareness raising and involvement activities related to biodiversity, but are we reaching the right audiences or staying in the “green bubble”? Are we doing it right? Can we use communication to bridge the gap between these two realities?This is a case study research looking at the project “GrassLIFE: Restoring EU priority grasslands and promoting their multiple use LIFE16 NAT/LV/000262” as an example of nature conservation project with a strong communications component. Project is fo-cused on the conservation of semi-natural grasslands which are rapidly declining in Lat-via and now cover only 0.7% of Latvia’s territory. GrassLIFE used strategic communica-tion approach to project communication, focusing on communicating the purpose of project and its relevance to society. Projects communication strategy was built around a vision that nature friendly management of semi-natural grasslands can be a part of Lat-via’s success story and grasslands can be a value both economically and emotionally. Currently GrassLIFE has carried out two communication campaigns for general public as well as ongoing communication, using project actions to tell the story of semi-nat-ural grasslands. The project has used communications tactics and channels that are typically used in marketing communications thus reaching large audiences. Thus the last campaign reached over 600 000 people.

GrassLIFE case study research argues that communication should be an integral part of nature conservation and biodiversity projects – not just result dissemination and in-formation about project actions. It should stem from the very purpose of the project, have precisely defined values, look beyond the specific project objectives, respond to society’s needs and be also personally relevant to people.

References(DAP S.a.)https://www.daba.gov.lv/public/lat/dabas_aizsardzibas_plani/dati1/zinojumi_ei-ropas_komisijaiKantar TNS. (2018) Latvijas iedzīvotāju noskaņojums un vērtības (Values and attitudes of Latvian society).Kantar TNS. (2017) Survey of Latvian population Latvijas daba un tās aizsardzība (Latvian Nature and Its Protection)Kantar TNS. (2017) Survey of Latvian population Latvijas iedzīvotāju viedoklis par LIFE programmu, dabas aizsardzību un vides jautājumiem (Opinion of Latvian society on LIFE programme, nature protection and environmental issues).Pavasars, I. (2016) Environmentalism in Latvia: Two Realities. Journal of Baltic Studies, Vol. 45, Issue 1, pp.39-54Schwartz, K. (2006) Nature and National Identity After Communism: Globalizing the Eth-noscapeSKDS. (2019) Internet survey of Latvian population Attieksme pret dabas daudzveidības aizsardzību un politiķu loma tajā (Attitudes towards nature protection and role of politi-cians).

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Communication with public trough LIFE CoHaBit Project implimentation

Sandra Voskāne Carnikava Municipality, LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)

sandra.voskane@carnikava.lv Main communication goal is to improve public knowledge about costal biotopes con-servation, restoration and sustainable management in nature par “Piejūra”. Important role in LIFE “CoHaBit” project is devoted to communication and cooperation with pub-lic. All activities are focused on public education and environmental consciousness im-provement, positive attitude shaping towards project and its activities, efforts to provide the public with experience in solving coastal management problems.Main communication type with all involved sides in project is direct contact – involving representatives of all target audiences in workshops, seminars and discussions, cre-ating an opportunity to inform participants, share knowledge and ideas related to the project.One of the mechanisms of public involvement is the organization of public and themat-ic events (seminars, joint-work), during which, in addition to spread information and environmental education, are identified the most active and interested members of the involved groups, whom deeper involvement would promote all involved group partic-ipation. Other informative and educational mechanisms are cooperation through the media, which involves audio, visual and audiovisual media, in order to be able to cover the project activities as widely and regularly as possible. Within the project were created short movies about nature park “Piejūra” biotopes and its restoration. The project website www.dabasparkspiejura.lv contains all current information about the project news, activities and results in Latvian and English languages. The activities of LIFE CoHaBit can also be followed on social networks such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube, thus involving a younger audience in the project and also gaining feedback from public and creating a digital discussion. Also, the project news was pub-lished in the Carnikavas informative publication “Carnikavas Novada Vēstis”, which is available in both digital and printed form.

Initiative Daru labu dabai — Way to Protect and Conserve Biodiversity

Elīna PekšēnaPasaules Dabas Fonds, associated partner of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)

epeksena@pdf.lv

Human Global ImpactHumans have only been around for 200,000 years, a tiny fraction of the 4.5 billion years of our planet’s history. Yet we have had a greater impact on the Earth than any other species. As humans continue to put pressure on the planet, we are upsetting the balance of ecosystems and losing biodiversity. If humans reduce the pressure we’re putting on the planet and manage resources better, in time, ecosystems will adapt. Na-ture and biodiversity will recover. In order for both people and wildlife to thrive, now and in the future, we need a healthy planet with a rich variety of plants and animals and vibrant ecosystems. (worldwildlife.org)

Ways to Protect and Conserve BiodiversityDuring more than 25 years of operation, Pasaules dabas fonds (associated partner of WWF) has developed nature protection programs aimed to protect forest, Baltic Sea, freshwater, grassland ecosystems and promote sustainable use of resources, as well as ensuring the reintroduction of species. Only in cooperation with various institutions, governmental and other non-governmental organizations and the business sector conservation work can be implemented with greater strength bringing environmental awareness cross-sectorally. One of the latest years most successful initiatives is Daru labu dabai (Doing good for nature) developed together with The Nature Conservation Agency. Daru labu dabai through voluntary work implements nature conservation ac-tions and other educational activities to support nature and share knowledge and wis-dom of the natural environments.

Daru labu dabai – Think Globally Act LocallyGoals of the initiative are to develop volunteer movement, and offer the opportunity to various public groups to learn and spend free time saving nature in protected areas in Latvia guided by field experts. Participants can be groups of 10 to 100 people - company employees, members of interest groups, groups of pupils and students, families, etc. By joining the movement’s activities one can learn not only about biotopes but also how lo-cal actions historically have affected and changed the natural habitats and practical ways how we can reverse damage that has been done years ago. Movement implementers also hope that the knowledge gained will be passed further to participants’ families and communities.

ABSTRACTS OF THE CONFERENCE

POSTERS

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Conservation of costal habitats in Atanasovsko lake natura 2000 site, Bulgaria

Diyana KostovskaBulgarian Biodiversity Foundation, Lagoon of LIFE project

Spas Uzunov, Diyana Kostovska, Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation (BBF)spas.uzunov@biodiversity.bg diyana.kostovska@biodiversity.bg

AbstractThe priority habitat 1150* (Coastal lagoons) is the most presented in the Natura 2000 site Atanasovsko Lake in Bulgaria. The measures applied by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation and its partners for the protection of this coastal habitat aim to reduce the risk of floods and pollution, restore the water regime and ensure the favorable condi-tions in the long term.Keywords: Coastal lagoons, Atanasovsko lake, Natura 2000, conservation activities, Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation (BBF)Aim: Maintain the Man-Lake Symbiosis for the Benefit of Species and Habitats of EU conservation concern.

IntroductionThe Natura 2000 site Atanasovsko Lake (SPA/SCI BG0000270) is the most represent-ative for habitat 1150* Coastal Lagoons in Bulgaria and the second most representative site within the EU Black Sea Biogeographical Region after Danube Delta. The habitat represents 6% of its coverage in the EU the Black Sea Biogeographical Region and 57% of the Bulgarian part of the region. In the SCI Atanasovsko Lake, the priority habitat 1150* covers 1,458.82 ha equal to 20.60% of its area. The Atanasovsko Lake has been reshaped in saltpans in 1906 and is the Bulgaria’s largest salt production site today.The ecological conditions in Atanasovsko Lake are largely the result of a remarkable symbiosis between natural processes and human activity. But this symbiosis needs continuous adjustment and fine-tuning of processes in order for the ecosystem to func-tion properly and provide its ecosystem services, such as the traditional salt extraction.The conservation status of the habitat 1150* Coastal lagoons in the Black Sea Biogeo-graphical Region is Unfavourable-Inadequate (Report under the Article 17 of the Hab-itats Directive, Period 2013-2019). Changes in water bodies conditions and pollution to surface waters are noted as the most important threats for this habitat in several European countries (EIONET, 2014).

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ResultsBulgarian Biodiversity Foundation has been working for more than 20 years for the res-toration and protection of the coastal lagoon Atanasovsko Lake. Efforts are focused mainly on reducing three main threats - floods and limiting organic pollution; distur-bances in the water regime and deterioration of the conditions in the habitats and for the species that inhabit them. BBF implements different measures to reduce these neg-ative impacts within three LIFE projects in Natura 2000 site Atanasovsko Lake for the last 10 years.As a result, the entry of fresh water into the lagoon is limited due to extreme rainfall, agricultural land and urban wastewaters is ensured. The infrastructure for water regime and salt gradient management has been restored in support of the favorable status of the habitat and maintenance of the traditional salt production. The conditions for feed-ing and rest have been improved and an additional safe nesting area for priority bird species has been provided.

Evolution of monitoring of the project`s LIFE CoHaBit socio-economic impact on the local economy and population, example of the Nature Park “Piejūra”

A. Jeņina1 E. Konstantinova2 LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)

1 Association “Baltic coasts”, agnese.jenina@gmail.com2 Ventspils University College, Association “Baltic coasts”, elina.konstantinova@gmail.com

Introduction:Nature Park “Piejūra” (here and after – NP Piejūra) is very unique and complex territory where interests of various sectors meet - nature protection, recreation, tourism, educa-tion, forestry and culture. NP Piejūra consists of three local government areas - Riga, Saulkrasti and Carnikava. Nature park is one of the Natura 2000 sites and represents the habitats and species of the Boreal region therefore is one of the most important natural territories in Europe. NP Piejūra offers its visitors a range of ecosystem services and is one of the most visited nature parks in the Riga region. Throughout the year, these areas are popular for tourists and recreational use, especially during the summer season, when most people go to relax on the beach. Consequently, it is not only an im-portant nature protection object, but also has an important economic, social, cultural and recreational significance.Within the LIFE CoHaBit project (“Coastal Habitat Conservation in Nature Park “Piejūra””, LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900) one of the project activity is to monitor the socio-economic im-pact of the LIFE CoHaBit activities for assessment of impact on the local economy and population, as well as to analyze visitor flow and their activity impacts. Analyzing the ter-ritory of the nature park from the socio-economic point of view, it should be mentioned that no or very little economic activity is performed in the territory. Also, number of inhab-itants in the territory of the park is insignificant. Thus, the assessment of the situation of the NP Piejūra is performed by including its adjacent territory. Within the framework of economic impact monitoring, forestry, business, tourism and recreation, socially signifi-cant environmental activities are analyzed. Within the framework of social impact moni- toring, recreation, educational opportunities, and social activities are analyzed.

Material and methods:To carry out socio-economic monitoring, a socio-economic monitoring plan was de-veloped. The elaborated monitoring plan is conceptually based on the analysis of the functional zoning and natural spaces of the nature park. Within the framework of mon-itoring

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plan, the acquisition of the necessary data was performed by requesting data from local governments, by conducting surveys of visitors and residents, and by analyzing infor-mation from publicly available databases. The data obtained within the survey were analyzed using the statistical data processing program SPSS. For the digitalization of the spatial data, free software’s QGIS and Google Maps have been used. Data analyz-ed includes period 2017-2018.

Results:NP Piejūra and habitats is a crucial source for recreation and wellbeing of local commu-nities, summer residents and various types of visitors from one day visitors to foreign tourists. The main findings of the monitoring:

y The profile of the most frequent visitor to the NP Piejūra is a woman with a mas-ter’s degree aged 40 to 62 with a net income of 500 to 1,000 euros per month, living in Riga.

y Forestry is one of the criteria for monitoring the direct economic impact. On av-erage, a quarter of the visitors, visiting NP Piejūra, use the natural resources pro-vided by the forest. Almost half of them go mushroom picking, a fifth pick berries in the nature park, but only a few pick medicinal plants. Mostly the locals collect natural resources in the nature park and use them only for personal consumption.

y More than 20% of park visitors go to the park very often to go swimming, watch the sunset and sunbathe, so it can be hypothetically assumed that for some park visitors the main destination in the park is the beach.

y Analyzing the planned and existing projects in the NP Piejūra, it can be seen that the facilities created in them equally envisage improvements in recreation opportunities and are aimed at reducing anthropogenic load in the park area. Also implemented environmental projects include environmental education and public awareness raising activities. Thus, it can be concluded that NP Piejūra is increasingly investing in its protection, improvement of the condition of habitats and development of infrastructure.

y Mostly different types of events are organized during the warm seasons. 85% of all annual events take place from April to October. The months of June and July are the most active.

y According to the visitors of the NP Piejūra, the highest priority for the nature park should be given to environmental protection, as well as tourism and recreation, but the most significant NP values are dunes and beaches, as well as forests and untouched nature territories.

Conclusions:NP Piejūra natural values and the Natura 2000 brand opens possibilities to access financial assistance that can contribute to the diversification of economic activities in the territory, especially in the development of tourism, which would provide revenue growth in tourism-related sectors (catering, transport, accommodation, etc.). Such benefits can also lead to improvements in the overall socio-economic situation of the area. The territory of the park is in demand not only during the summer season, but throughout the year. An important precondition for the popularity of the area is its ac-cessibility by public transport, the transport frequency varies depending on the season. In recent years there has been a unified planned progress in ensuring the improvement and quality of the infrastructure and overall territory of the nature park. It follows that, in general, economic activity in coastal areas is largely determined by the infrastructure that contributes to the development of tourism potential.

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Evaluation of the success of habitats management and restoration in Nature Park “Piejūra”

Daina BojāreNature Conservation Agency of Latvia,

LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)daina.bojare@daba.gov.lv

Key words: monitoring, evaluation of the success of habitats management, Nature Park “Piejūra”.

IntroductionThe success of management and restoration activities of habitats in Nature Park “Pie-jūra” was evaluated within the project according to specially developed monitoring guidelines.Monitoring was performed in all project sites in Riga City and Carnikava Municipality along with species and habitats restoration activities for the following habitats: 1150* Coastal lagoons, 1630* Boreal Baltic coastal meadows, 2110 Embryonic shifting dunes, 2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes), 2130* Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes), 2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic, Continental and Boreal region. In some places, the success of combat-ting invasive plant species Rosa rugosa, Lactuca tatarica, Solidago canadensis, Impatiens glandulifera, Amelanchier spicata and Aronia melanocarpa was monitored.

MethodsThe Monitoring Guidelines defined the aim of each specific monitoring action, select-ed indicators to assess the efficiency of restoration in relation to the expected results. Temporary and permanent sampling plots were set up in order to assess the impacts of activities, where vegetation structure, species composition and abundance (according to the Braun-Blanquet system), as well as the cover of trees and bushes were recorded. Sampling plots were set up both within and outside the area of direct activities to com-pare vegetation and other parameters before and after restoration with a habitat with-out restoration and management. The monitoring was performed during 2017-2020, the gathered data are stored in an excel database and supplemented with photos fixing the monitored habitat. Several ecosystem services affected by the habitats restoration and management activities will be assessed.

Results and conclusionsFull analyses of monitoring data will be available at the end of 2020 in the Final Moni-toring Report. At present, the data show improvement in the quality of coastal mead-ows and lagoons, particularly vegetation diversity. The cover and density of the expan-sive common reed Phragmites australis has decreased, and the restored lagoons have become more suitable for rare breeding birds, e.g., Eurasian bittern Botaurus stellaris. Recovery and stabilisation of dune terrain and development of continuous vegetation layer occur in the restored dune habitats.Only long-term observations can show significant changes and improvement in the conservation status of the habitat, and real impacts of the restoration activities will be clearly seen only after several years; accordingly, monitoring should be regularly contin-ued after the completion of the project.

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Evolution of the subaerial part of coastal slope in the Nature Park “Piejūra”, Gulf of Riga, 1990-2020

Jānis LapinskisAssociation Baltic Coasts, Department of Geography and Earth Sciences,

University of Latviajanisl@edu.lu.lv

IntroductionThe coastal section of the Nature Park “Piejūra” is very typical for the top of the Gulf of Riga. For millennia, this area has been dominated by coastal accumulation, and for-mation of wide, low and flat coastal areas took place. Nowadays, with the increase in the influx of coastal visitors, erosion induced by this anthropogenic load is becoming significant.For the sake of successful long-term preservation of the stability of coasts, the imple-mentation of the most appropriate site-specific management measures and the main-tenance of the quality of the eco-services provided by the coast are essential. In the conditions of coastal erosion risk, it is necessary to ensure the restoration of the initial (natural) coastal sediment exchange balance in long-shore and cross-shore dimen-sions. The following aspects are important in the context of the selection of possible coastal zone management measures of the NP “Piejūra”:

y necessity to maintain the recreational possibilities on the beach and primary dunes area;

y the most significant cause of erosion is of anthropogenic origin (fall in alluvial inflow from the Daugava river, as well as high “recreational load”);

y in most cases erosion does not pose a significant risk of coastal retreat, but lowers the quality of primary dune habitats.

Material and methodsMonitoring of coastal geological processes in the area began in the early 1990s. In the NP “Piejūra” coastal section a total of 60 stationary levelling cross-sections have been installed, in which the measurements were performed repeatedly.

ResultsAccording to data from levelling cross-sections, since 2005, accumulation has in-creased in most of the NP „Piejūra”, with the exception of those coastal stretches where there is significant anthropogenic disturbance. Since 1990, the average accumulation rate of wind-blown sand in the central part of Daugavgrīva Island, in the section from Vecāķi to Garciems, as well as in the section Gauja - Lilaste has been 1.0-2.5 m3/m per year. Meanwhile, the accumulation rate in the western part of Daugavgrīva Island and in the NE part of NP “Piejūra” near Pabaži does not exceed 0.5 m3/m per year. Episodes of catastrophic erosion of the coastal slope are very rare. Significant cases of erosion were observed only during the storms of 1993, 1999, 2001 and 2005, when 2-15 m3/m of sand was washed away in each episode.

ConclusionsToday, coastal sections with historical (since the mid-20th century) conditions of heavy wind induced erosion, as well as the main concentration areas of holidaymakers, are at higher risk of wave induced erosion, which in turn affects the condition of existing primary dune habitats, beach width and beach sand volume.In order to increase spatial resolution of surveys and deepen the understanding of rela-tionships between recreational load, habitat maintenance measures and dune stability, the use of low-altitude unmanned airship photogrammetry system is necessary.

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Implementation of conservation and management measures of coastal habitat type 1630

Boreal baltic meadows in Vakarbuļļi, Riga City in the framework of LIFE CoHaBit project

Laura Veinberga, J.Gudēvics-LiepiņšRiga City Council, City Development Department, Riga Municipality LIFE CoHaBit

project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)laura.veinberga@riga.lv juris.gudevics-liepins@riga.lv

IntroductionNature park “Piejūra” is the third most important Natura 2000 territory in Latvia for the conservation of habitat type 1630* Boreal baltic coastal meadows. Coastal meadows are an important habitat for protected plant species such as Armeria maritima, Trifolium fragiferum, Glaux maritima, Taraxacum palustre, and others. This habitat is one of the few localities of Angelica palustris in Latvia. In Latvia this habitat type is very rear, it’s total area is only 180 ha, which is only 0,4 % of the total semi-natural grassland area. In Na-ture Park “Piejūra” coastal grasslands are found in Vakarabuļļi on the banks of Buļļupe and Lielupe, and in Daugavgrīva. They occupy 28.06 ha, which forms one sixth of the total habitat area in Latvia.

Material and methodsThe quality of the coastal meadows in Vakarbuļļi were assessed as poor, the semi- nat-ural grassland was heavily overgrown by shrubs, thick layer of the old grass litter was formed and in wet places high dominance of reed Phragmites austaralis was found. Since 2010, the Rīga City Council is supporting the management of grasslands in Vakar-buļļi Nature reserve by mowing, pasturing, in some sites also by felling of shrubs and by elimination of invasive plant species, but this management was insufficient, because phenological phases of the plants wasn’t taken in to account.

ResultsOn 2017 till 2019 new approach for grassland management was implemented in Vakar-buļļi during the project LIFE CoHaBit LIFE 15 NAT/LV/000900: At the first stage, in the first year, the old grass was raked out from grass and shrubs were cut down. Also, in the driest territory, topsoil was removed to promote introduction of endemic species. After the first mowing, it was harrowed to take the remaining grass litter off. Over the next two years mowing in different time of the year leaving unmown strips was introduced in the 4,54 ha large territory. To reduce reed expansion in Daugavgrīva Nature reserve Yellow-rattle Rhinanthus minor seeds were harvested and sown in the grass.

Project LIFE CoHaBit Demo site CarnikavaAgnese Rudusāne

Carnikava Municipality, LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)agnese.rudusane@carnikava.lv

IntroductionCarnikava Municipality is located in Vidzeme, Latvia, on the shores of Gulf of Riga. Car-nikava is located about 30 km from the national capital Riga. And includes a big part of the nature park “Piejūra” (NATURA 2000 site). Statistically 90% of the area of nature park “Piejūra” in located in Carnikava region. In Carnikava region there are 16 out of 24 EU habitats identified in nature park “Piejūra”. Total area of habitats in Carnikava: 2118.2 ha. Together 60% of all EU importance habitats found in nature park “Piejūra” are lo-cated in Carnikava region. EU importance habitats cover 26 % of the area of Carnikava region. The greatest natural value is pine forests and seaside with sandy beaches and dunes. The most represented habitats in Carnikava are 2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (“white dunes”), 2130 Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous veg-etation (“grey dunes”) and 2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic,Continental and Boreal region. The wooded dunes were planted 60-80 years ago, but have never been maintained. They were densely fused, creating adverse habitat conditions. The grey dunes were overgrown with pines from the nearby wooded dunes, thus transforming the habitat and damaging it. Coastal erosion still is a serious problem in Carnikava, as the number of holidaymakers on the beach is increasing every year, thus increasing the anthropo-genic load on the sensitive coastal habitats in the nature park “Piejūra”.

Material and methodsWithin the framework of the LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15NAT/LV/000900), several coastal habitat restoration measures have been carried out in Carnikava as a project demo site in years 2019-2020.2130 Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (“gray dunes”). Habitat restoration works were carried out on an area of 6.9 ha. By cutting pines up to 20 cm in diameter, leaving only a few pines per hectare. 2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic,Continental and Boreal region. Habitat restoration works were carried out on an area of 63 ha. For the first time in Latvia in such a big areas. Tree thinning works were performed with the traditional forest technique, creating openings ~ 0.1 ha in diameter. Leaving groups of ecological and landscape trees untouched.

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Coastal erosion measures were carried out in 2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (“white dunes”) habitats for more than a kilometer. Reed and pine fences were installed in the length of 1139 m. Pine branches obtained as a result of felling gray dunes were used for pine fences, thus applying environmentally friend-ly solutions. The fences were braided by hand without using any materials other than pine. Also, pine branches were used to cover wind blow areas. In spring 2020 to inten-sify sand accumulation and stabilize sandy ground, gramineous plants were planted near the fences. This methodology is widely implemented in Europe and previously successfully applied in Latvia.

Results and conclusionsIt is too early to provide an assessment whether the measures taken on the costal hab-itats restoration have successful impact, specially in gray dune, wooded dune habi-tat. There are already positive observations regarding vegetation regeneration in visi-tor-driven and wind-blown dunes and new pine browse observed in wooded dunes. Long-term monitoring will show how successful the activities carried out during the pro-ject have been.In order to ensure favorable habitat conditions and reduce threats in the future, it is necessary to carry out timely monitoring and take the necessary measures in the long term.

Protecting the coastal dunes against erosion in LIFE CoHaBit project Demonstration site Mangalsala,

Riga City Laura Veinberga, J.Gudēvics-Liepiņš

Riga City Council, City Development Department, Riga Municipality LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)

laura.veinberga@riga.lv juris.gudevics-liepins@riga.lv

IntroductionMangaļsala neighborhood is located in the northern part of Riga and also includes a part of the nature park “Piejūra” (NATURA 2000). In this part of the park the greatest natural value is pine forest and seaside area with sandy beach and dunes. The habitats represented in Mangaļsala coast line are 2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (“white dunes”), 2130 Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegeta-tion (“grey dunes”) and 2180 Wooded dunes of the Atlantic,Continental and Boreal region. The problems identified for the above habitats are due to a number of causes, the most influential are erosion due to wind, mainly North –West, and storms. The consequenc-es are blow out and washed out white, grey and wooded dunes and shifting dunes toward to land. Also, increasing anthropogenic load during last 20 years promote veg-etation degradation and intensify erosion preventing dunes from developing naturally.

Material and methodsIn the framework of LIFE CoHaBit, LIFE15NAT/LV/000900 Riga City Council City De-velopment Department during years 2019-2020 implemented environmentally friend-ly coastal protection solutions in Mangaļsala after project partner Association “Baltic Coasts” nature experts recommendations. Recommendations served as a basis for the methodology.

ResultsIn May 2019 to encourage the accumulation of sand, restore vegetation in the dunes and influence the visitors flow across the dune habitats, the fences made from pine tops and branches in total lengths of 3805 m and fences made from reeds in total length of 227 m were installed in the most eroded places approximately 4 km along the Mangaļsala sea side. Also, pine branches were used to cover wind blow areas. Environ-mental friendly material used for fences and coverage of eroded places were obtained from wooded dune and lagoon habitat restoration work in the Nature Park “Piejūra”, thereby optimizing costs of project activities.

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In July 2020 to intensify sand accumulation and stabilize sandy ground, gramineous plants were planted near the fences against the sea. This methodology is widely imple-mented in Europe and previously successfully applied in Latvia. LIFE CoHaBit project Demonstration site Mangaļsala represents how sensitive coastal habitats can be protected with nature based solutions in visitor high demanded area in Baltic sea region.

Solutions of Nature Management Planning – example of Nature Management Plan

of Nature Park “Piejūra”Inga Hoņavko

Nature Conservation Agency, LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)inga.honavko@daba.gov.lv

Key words: nature management planning, ecosystem services approach, Nature Park “Piejūra”.

IntroductionNature Park “Piejūra” (NP “Piejūra”) is a complex area where diverse range of interests meets. From one hand, NP “Piejūra” is high valued Natura 2000 site along the South-ern banks of Gulf of Riga. From the other hand, the NP “Piejūra” is high visited site, especially during summer season – there is located the main recreational beaches for citizens of Riga. NP “Piejūra” is located within three municipalities and almost half of lands ownership belongs to municipalities and private owners and interests of all stake-holders have to be considered during nature management planning.

AimNature Management Plan (NMP) is a planning document where the needed human inputs in ecosystems are described with the aim to reach the balance between nature conservation and management needs, nature resources using and interests of socio – economic development in the Nature Protected Areas.

Methods and resultsGeneral content of NMPs of the protected areas of Latvia is defined in the Regulations of the Cabinet of Ministers – nature values (species and habitats) should be assessed, management activities to protect these values should be described, as well as propos-al for protection regime zoning have to be elaborated. But for such complex area as NP “Piejūra” many other aspects were discussed and presented in the NMP. There-fore special chapters - Visitor’s Management Plan, dunes erosion – accumulation as-sessment was elaborated. As well as ecosystem services assessment was included and ecosystem services approach has been applied for the description of socio-economic value of NP “Piejūra”, determination of the targets of NMP, justifying of management actions, assessment of impact of the development plans of the municipalities and justi-fying of the proposed protection regime. Use of ecosystem services approach in elabo-ration of NMPs offers a way of implementation of the requirements for the assessment of the protected area, not only in terms of nature protection but also in terms of public interest.

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ConclusionsOn April 2020 Nature Management Plan of Nature Park “Piejūra” (2020 – 2031) was adopted. (1) Wooden dunes (2180), Grey dunes (2130*), grasslands and water habi-tats management activities, as well as primary dunes erosion diminishing activities and combating of invasive alien species are defined as a priority nature management ac-tions. (2) Improvements in visitor’s infrastructure are planned to reduce negative impact of anthropogenic load and manage the visitor’s flow. (3) As well as proposal for update of Regulations on protection and use of NP “Piejūra” was elaborated where the zones of the protection regime are defined and highlight the space for nature protection, space for social (recreational) interests and space for economic and development activities.

Sustainable restoration and management measures of grey and wooded dune habitats

in Nature Park “Piejūra”, LIFE CoHaBit projectA. Jeņina1 B. Laime22 LIFE CoHaBit project (LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900)

1 Association “Baltic coasts”, agnese.jenina@gmail.com 2 Department of Botany and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, brigita.laime@lu.lv

Introduction:Latvia is one of the few countries in the EU where natural wooded dunes still can be found. The wooded dunes (EU habitat code - 2180) cover more than 50% of the Na-ture Park “Piejūra” (here and after – NP Piejūra) area, which is 5% of the total wooded dune habitat area in Latvia and 3% of Europe. Some of the wooded dune territories where planted to straighten shifting dunes in early 19th century. Till nowadays these wooded dune territories haven’t been managed and had low biodiversity. Also, one of the habitats that is significantly decreasing and is one of the priority habitats in EU are grey dunes (EU habitat code – 2130*). In the NP Piejūra grey dunes habitats are found all along the coastline. In the past, when fishing was active and small boats went to sea, fishermen also played an important role in maintaining the dunes. By drying the nets in the dunes, the growth of the trees was disturbed, thus protecting the dunes from being overgrown with forest. Similarly, nowadays grey dunes are overgrowing with bushes and trees, so unique grey dune habitats are disappearing. Within the LIFE CoHaBit project (“Coastal Habitat Conservation in the Nature Park “Pie-jūra””, LIFE15 NAT/LV/000900) in the NP Piejūra grey and wooded dune habitat resto-ration actions where implemented to improve habitat ecological functions. The aim of the activities was to restore and improve the condition of the protected habitats while simultaneously balancing these actions with the provision of a shore-side protective function and the provision of high-quality ecosystem services to the local population.

Material and methods:Environmental expert’s evaluation report on restoration and management measures of coastal habitats was developed. Following the expert’s evaluation report additional research and field studies were carried on to develop a work plan and description of the method for the restoration and management works. Data layers and cartography material were created using free software’s QGIS and Google Maps. Main methods for wooded dune habitat restoration consisted of complex restoration actions like:

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y thinning of the tree layer by 20%, 30% or 50%; y creation of open spaces, leaving old or separate younger trees; y some of the wooded dune polygons leave untouched (ecological “islands”); y cut down young pine stands with high density, leaving some of the most viable,

thickest and tallest pines or groups of them; y remove moss layer and topsoil by exposing mineral soil (10-25 m2 large squares).

Main method for grey dune habitat restoration was pine tree cutting in polygons by leaving just a few valuable pine trees with significant ecological and landscape function.

Results:Within the LIFE CoHaBit project in the NP Piejūra practical habitat restoration activi-ties were implemented in 19 ha of grey dunes and 160 ha of wooded dunes. The aim of the habitat restoration actions was achieved and habitat ecological functions were improved by creating mosaic structure and exposing habitats to more sunlight. Such works were carried out for the first time not just in the NP Piejūra, but all along the Latvian coastline. Therefore, these actions have demonstration character and gives an example of nature conservation and site management in conditions of: sensitive and unique coastal habitat and species protection, high site demand, and proximate geo-graphic location to urbanized areas as well as complex stakeholder structure.

Wildlife management and conservation actions in the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar

Regional Park within the framework of the LIFE Salinas project

Antonio Zamora Lopez, University of Murcia, LIFE Salinas projectA. Zamora-López 1, 2, A. Sallent1, D. Hernández1, A. D. Ibarra1, F. Belmonte-Serrato1,

J. Fernández3 & G. Ballesteros1

1 Department of Geography. Geomorphology laboratory. Campus de la Merced. University of Murcia, Spain.2 Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Spain.3 Salinera Española, S.A.

Contact information: antonio.zamora2@um.es

The Mediterranean coastal saltworks are considered highly biodiverse ecosystem, playing a key role in maintaining the wildlife communities associated with marine envi-ronments. In this sense, the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, located in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, host to species-rich community, mo-stly included in European directives and lists of protected fauna. The activity of the sal-tworks has been carried out environmentally compatible for decades, contributing to the establishment of diverse birds community (gulls, terns, waders and waterfowl). However, the imbalances in the yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis) populations cau-sed by the increase in food sources (mainly landfills) have led to nitrification and modi-fication of the breeding habitats. For this reason, LIFE Salinas (LIFE17 NAT/ES/000184) includes among its actions the creation of green infrastructures such as new waterbirds breeding areas. In turn, these actions will improve the water flow within the saltworks circuit and will therefore benefit the aquatic macroinvertebrate communities (essential trophic link in this ecosystems). LIFE salinas also includes among its actions the rehabi-litation of an old saltworks pond to increase the habitat distribution of the endangered fish Aphanius iberus within the regional park.Thus far, the results of the project actions has been very successful, detecting an incre-ase in the Aphanius iberus populations and a good received of the green infrastructures by the breeding waterbirds comnunity. The LIFE Salinas highlights the importance of an active management of this coastal ecosystems that allow the compatibility of economic and ecotourism activity with the conservation of its biodiversity.