The Republic of Palau Conservation Education Campaign ... · PDF fileresults of questionnaire survey ... -Market Demand -Stop buying ... jewellery Ineffective/non existent State Law

The Republic of Palau Conservation Education Campaign Project Plan

Yalap P. Yalap Palau Conservation Society Republic of Palau

Campaigning for Conservation Diploma of Conservation Education The University of Kent at Canterbury

September 2001

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TABLE OF CONTENTS: I. Site Summary 3-5

a. Location b. People c. Weather d. biological importance e. protection f. map of the Republic of Palau

II. Stakeholders’ Matrix 6-7 III. Initial Conceptual Model 8 IV. Community Survey Results (summary) 9-18

a. data collection summary b. results of questionnaire survey c. respondents description d. employment category e. information/entertainment & media preferences f. perception & knowledge g. threats to turtle population

V. Revised Conceptual Model & Narrative 19-21 VI. Flagship Species 23-25 VII. Slogan 25 VIII. Work Plan 25-37 IX. Monitoring Plan 38-41 X. Project Schedule 42-43 XII. References 44 XIII. Acknowledgements 44

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I. INTRODUCTION a. Location:

The Republic of Palau comprises a group of small islands in the western pacific. Palau or Belau (local name of Palau) is the western most group of the Caroline Islands lying 821 miles southwest of Guam, 1,035 miles southeast of the Philippines, and 4,172 miles north of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Palau lies between 7 degrees and 20 minutes north latitude and 134 degrees and 28 minutes east longitude, about 500 miles above the equator. There are close to 300 high and low islands consisting of volcanic, atolls, raised limestone outcrops and reefs. The low atoll and reef islands are mostly situated to the northern and southern extremities of the archipelago , and include Ngeruangel and Kayangel in the north and the Southwest Islands of Sonsorol, Tobi, Fana, Merrir and Helen Reef to the south. The middle of the archipelago consists of volcanic islands including Babeldaob, Koror, Arkebesang and Malakal.

The Rock Islands are raised limestone mushroom shaped islands extending from southeast of Babeldaob towards the west. Peleliu and Angaur are raised limestone flats just west of the Rock Islands. Please see map .

b. People The people of Palau are Micronesians with indo-pacific traits. It is generally believed that they may have first come from Southeast Asia, mainly Indonesia, Philippines and New Guinea. Palauans are a therefore a mixture of these ethnicities. From the last census, the total population of people living in Palau is 19,000, in which 12,000 are Palauans. The rest comprise a wide range of nationalities including from the Philippines and America .

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c. Weather Due to its proximity to the equator, Palau’s climate is wet maritime tropical with a high amount of rainfall. The average daily temperature throughout the year is 81 degrees Fahrenheit while relative humidity is 82%. The water temperature averages about the same as 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

d. Biological Importance Palau is known throughout the world for its marine biodiversity. Twice in 1997 and 1998, Palau was voted by readers of Rodale’s Scuba Diving Magazine, as one of the underwater wonders of the world. Its marine resources are important to the people as the main source of protein in their diet and considered it is also important in their daily lives, and culture. Legends are filled with marine life interactions. Control of the resources, extending from the land to the sea are the responsibility of the village, and villages and village leadership have customary control to rights extending beyond their shores. Conservation methods are exercised and integrated into the traditional way of life and “closed seasons” called “Bul” can be imposed by chiefs. The ocean continues to play a significant role in the life and culture of Palauans even to this day. Palau’s biological significance shows:

• more than 400 species of hard corals and 300 species of soft corals • most plant and animal species in Micronesia • more than 1,400 species of reef fish • seven of the world’s nine species of giant clams • Micronesia’s only crocodile and dugong (sea cow) populations • Marine Lakes that are home to unique non-stinging Mastigias and Moon

Jellyfish • Lake Ngardok, the largest natural freshwater lake in Micronesia • one of the largest undisturbed forests in Micronesia • the largest number of resident bird species in Micronesia

e. Protection [Turtles] On the national level, Palau’s sea turtles (hawksbill and green) are protected under Title 24, Division 2: Wildlife Protection, Chapter 12 entitled Protected Sea Life of the Second Supplement to the Palau National Code copyright of 1998. It defines it as being against the law to:

• Take any female turtle while she is on land • Take turtle eggs at any time • Take any turtle during the months of June, July, August, December and

January • Take during the open season, any green turtle with a carapace length of

less than 34 inches • Take during the open season, any hawksbill turtles with a carapace length

of less than 27 inches.

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A person violating any of the provisions of this law shall be imprisoned for a period of not more than 6 months, or fined not more than $100.00, or both. The Division of Conservation and Entomology under the Ministry of Resources & Development has 1 Division Chief and 3 Law Enforcement Officers. Since becoming independent in October 1994, Palau has not joined any international agreements for endangered species. But presently, the Bureau of Resources & Development is collaborating with the Office of the Attorney General [with assistances from the Office of Environmental Response Coordination (OERC), the Bureau of National Resources and Development (BNRD) and the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC)], in reviewing obligations to enable Palau to join the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild Fauna and Flora [CITES]. The office of the President will also present a revised Endangered Species Act to the Palau National Congress for ratification by the first quarter of next year (2002). The Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve was established in 1956 by the Palau Legislature during the Trust Territory era. Now it is a jurisdiction of Koror State Government. It still is the oldest, of several conservation areas legally established for the protection of the natural environment of Palau. Also known as the “Seventy Islands”, these islands and their beaches are, an outlier of the “Rock Islands”, with close proximity to the southwestern reefs providing easy access for turtles from the open ocean. These group of islands, also have sea grass beds that support grazing and feeding for foraging turtles. The management of the preserve consists mainly of the surveillance and law enforcement activities undertaken by the 17 staff Koror State Conservation and Law Enforcement Department and the Division on Conservation & Entomology under the Ministry of Resources & Development

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STAKEHOLDERS MATRIX Under an agreement between the Palau conservation Society and RARE Center for Tropical Conservation, a project to raise awareness about Palau’s turtles and marine environment was agrred upon. Before beginning the field component of the project we conducted : A Literature Search: This is a period of data gathering. Existing information from a variety of sources, i.e., government record and statistics, libraries, internet, archives, NGO’s, similar projects, local community, local college and other institutions was gathered and reviewed. Two Vision Workshops: Two participatory stakeholders meetings were held as part of a site assessment process. The reason for holding these was to build an initial and revised conceptual model, and to look at the factors affecting turtle populations in Palau. An interim period of intensive research with questionnaire survey is conducted in between the meetings. This helped to check the model and to come up with a clear objectives for the field based work program.

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Participant/ Stakeholder

Key Issues Interests/Motive Potential Contribution

Consequences

Herman Omelau, President, Belau Boaters Association I

-Lack or care -Potential for cooperation

-Access to boat operators

-Build cooperation

Tony Lomisang, Member, Catholic Parish Council 2

-Lack of regulations -Potential to reach members of Melekeok State

-Access to parish members

-Build knowledge

Norman Blau, Member Angaur State Legislature 1

-Lack of knowledge

-Potential to reach Angaur fishermen

-Introduce state legislation

-Change behavior

Edwin Chiokai, Quarantine Officer, National Gov’t. I

-Lack of community care

-Quarantine cooperation

-Enforcement of regulations

-Build community care

Roman Ridep, Principal, Peleliu Elementary School 1

-Lack of care -Expert fisherman -Knowledge of population

-Build knowledge

Celestino Yangilmau, Self Employed I

-Traditional subsistence

-Expert fisherman -Knowledge of population

-Build knowledge

Dilmei Olkeriil, Director, Council of Chiefs

-Primary School Students

-Students -Lack of care for regulations

-Build knowledge

Florencia Elbelau, Leader Mai Brel Woman’s Org. of Palau 1, 2

-Traditional Customs

- Powerful women of Koror State

-Thinking of tradition only

-Observe regulations

Kathy Kesolei, Member of Women’s Council and also School to Work Prog. 1, 2

Traditional Customs

Women of northern Palau

-knowldege of population decline

-Change behavior, attitude

Reina Yano, Owner, Yano’s Local Food Market I

-Popular Marketplace

-Market Demand -Stop buying from fishermen

-Build cooperation

Remiang Skebong, Leader of Airai Women 1, 2

-Lack of care -Fisherman Wife & Community Leader


-Build cooperation, change behavior & attitude

Priscilla Subris, Member, Ngaraard Women Org. I

-Lack of care -Influencial women of Nagraard State


-Build cooperation capacity

Mista Moros, Koror State RangerI

-Nesting beaches -Conservation & The Law

-Law enforcement

-Public knowledge & cooperation

Jimmy Miller, Boat Operator I

-Fisherman, boat operator

-Subsistence living -Daily knowledge -Season knowledge

Apache, Self Employed Fisherman I

-Dive guide, fisherman

-Subsistence living -Past & present condition

-Life cycle knowledge

Erchar Franz I - Lack of care - Expert fisherman Knowledge of population

- Build knowledge

Ebil Inabo I - Lack of knowledge

- Potential to reach Angaur fishermen

- Introduce State legislation

- Build community cooperation

Hector Ngulitel I - Primary earnings Expert fisherman - Earning for a living

Balance between individual & communal interests

Miller Rechelluul I - Lack of care Influencial woman from Nagraard State

- Observe regulations

- Build cooperation capacity

I = Invited; 1 = Attended first meeting 2= Attended second meeting

Hunting

Accidental take from Tuna nets

Hawksbill Turtle

Green Turtle

Palau’s Turtle

Population

Hotel lighting

Illegal harvesting of

eggs

Removal of beach sand for

construction

International Fishing

Practices

Traditional Custom

Local consumption

Government Fishery Policy

Hunting for meat

Market demand

Increasing hotel

development

Interference of habitat

Increased tourism to

Palau

Government Tourism Policy

Insufficient economic

alternatives i.e in S.W. Isl.

Need for cash

Sale of Shell jewellery

Ineffective/non existent State Law protecting

Turtles

Outdated/poorly Enforced National

Law for Turtles

Traditional Shell

Money

Palauan Culture

Insufficient awareness and appreciation for

Turtle plight

Insufficient awareness of regulations

Lack of Environmental Education Program

COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS (SUMMARY) a. Data Collection Immediately following the first stakeholder meeting and the development of an Initial Conceptual Model, [see previous page] Yalap Yalap developed a questionnaire survey comprising 35 questions. This survey was designed using Survey Pro. It included both single answer multiple choice questions, multi-option multiple choice questions and open answer questions. The pre-questionnaire survey was created to collect personal bio data i.e., ethnicity, age, residence, media preferences and knowledge, behavior and attitude toward the flagship species. The results validate and remodeled the Initial Conceptual Model and to help identify SMART objectives for the campaign. They were distributed among 3 enumerators. One surveyed Koror, capitol of Palau where 70 percent of Palauans are staying with home states somewhere else. Another one surveyed Angaur and Peleliu including Eang with concentration of people from Tobi and Sonsorol states to the south of the archipelago. The last enumerator covered Babeldaob with 10 states, including Kayangel state, an atoll in the north of the archipelago. A total of 500 questionnaires were distributed representing about 4% of the islands’ local population. Questionnaires were distributed throughout Palau in proportion with population distribution. All 16 States were sampled with the exception of Sonsorol and Tobi States. Prior to distribution enumerators were given training in survey techniques. Questionnaires were anonymous. Questionnaire distribution commenced on August 22, 2001 and analysis was completed on August 29, 2001. b. Results Of Questionnaire Survey Of the 500 forms distributed, 357 were returned for analysis. Data was entered into Survey Pro and an analysis of results run. Questionnaire returns were solicited from across Palau. In the 1990 population census, approximately 68% of the total population resided in Koror, figures from this survey showed 54% of respondents to be from this State, possibly under-representing Koror. Note: most residents of Koror usually have different home states. Survey analysis shows a close to 100% covered are Palauans. Most of them lived in Koror [54%] and the second most were from states with beaches or islands with turtle nesting areas namely Airai, Melekeok, Ngaraard. The states of Angaur and Peleliu, had the lowest returns.

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States Surveyed

Residents 1. Koror 54.3% 15. Hatohobei 0.6% 2. Airai 8.1% 16. Ngatpang 0.6% 3. Melekeok 7.3% Others ( living abroad) 4.0% 4. Angaur 6.2% Totals 100.0% 5. Ngaraard 7% 6. Peleliu 2.5% 7. Ngeremlengui 2.2% 8. Ngchesar 1.7% 9. Ngarchelong 1.4% 10. Ngiwal 1.1% 11. Aimeliik 0.8% 12. Ngardmau 0.8% 13. Ngerchelong 0.8% 14. Aimellik 0.6%

c. Respondents Description

Age: A broad cross-section of age groups were surveyed. The mean age group of people survey is 50 years.

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Gender:

63.7% of respondents were male. And 99.2% of respondents were Palauan by birth. The largest group by education was high school at 41%.42% of respondents worked for the government. The rest are divided into private sector, retirees, self employment, farming, fishing, others and none.

d. Employment Categories:

Results of the survey also showed a modest bias toward men and Government employment. Government statistics show that only 43% of Palauans are employed in Government and that gender ratio’s are virtually 1:1. This bias is likely the result of using untrained enumerators.

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e. Information/entertainment & media preferences More than half listen to the radio for information, with newspaper second and watching television third. About 37% watch taped local program channels. The favorite local radio station is the controversial WWFM 89.5 with slightly over than half of those surveyed at 54% as listeners. The owner/DJ is an outspoken radio announcer, which may be the reason why. Listeners preferred listening times to the radio are mostly in the morning. This supports the favorite radio station item that is most active with morning shows. Newspaper is the preferred form of media [51%] with Tia Belau as the preferred local newspaper with 69% readers from the respondents. Although 37% of the respondents say they watch TV, the States of Kayangel, Melekeok, Ngiwal, Angaur, Sonsorl and Tobi do not have television. f. Perception and knowledge of Palau's Sea Turtles:

Virtually all respondents know that sea turtles are protected in Palau and that they are endangered species.

While less people know the specifics of the laws, knowledge is still high with 74% understanding that it is illegal to take females, and 81% that it is against the law to take nesting turtles. Despite this, Turtles are seen as a very important part of Palauan culture [69.2%]. Twenty-six percent say that turtle meat is a “must” for the Palauan diet. And 34.8% that it is important in Palauan customs. 76% of respondents eat turtle meat once a year or more and over 10% eat it at least once a month. Almost 40% of respondents also report eating turtle eggs.

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Knowledge of turtle behavior and the status of the species is low: Thirty-six percent of respondents believe that female turtles lay every 13-15 days and 28% stated that they do not know.

When asked Fishermen were the group most likely to believe that turtles lay frequently:

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These results may be because of a guess relating to the legend of the Ngemelis Turtle. This is a story of two lovers who met at this particular island, and while lying on the beach at full moon, they did not notice a turtle came up to nest and when it left it accidentally dragged the grass skirt of the women. About 15 days later the same turtle came up shore with shreds of the skirt to lay again and that how the turtle egg laying cycle was found out. Twenty three percent answered correctly of the reproduction age of between 20-34 year of age, but 29% do not know. In question 27 regarding sea turtles returning to their birth beach to nest , 81% said yes.

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g. Threats to Turtle Population In the Initial Conceptual Model, key informants noted that hunting, egg collecting and development were major factors influencing the taking of turtles. The survey confirmed that this was a general perception. Interestingly, fishermen knew less than some other occupational groups – see next set of graph.

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Forty-four percent of respondents did not know the law and only 24% [$100 fine during closed season of June, July, August, December and January]

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When asked if there would always be turtles in Palau 58% said that this depends on the actions that we undertake today. This varied somewhat by age and occupation:

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From these results, the second meeting did not change the model

Hunting


Hawksbill Turtle

Green Turtle

Palau’s Turtle

Population

Hotel lighting


eggs


construction


Practices

Traditional Custom

Local consumption


Hunting for meat

Market demand

Increasing hotel

development



Palau




Need for cash

Sale of Shell

jewellery


Turtles


Law for Turtles

Traditional Shell

Money

Palauan Culture


Turtle plight



STAKEHOLDER MEETING: CONCEPTUAL MODEL NARRATIVE The Sea Turtle Population of Palau is the target condition. Key stakeholders at the first meeting recognized that the population of green and hawksbill sea turtles is declining – the turtles that they see nowadays are usually smaller than 10 years ago. They recognized that fast boats, fishing equipment and methods are all contributing to this decline. Hawksbill turtles are hunted for their shells that are used traditionally as money for women and for jewelry. Hawksbill meat is eaten but is less favorable because of its strong odor. Green turtle meat are the favorable ones. These turtles are hunted for food because the meat does not have strong odor. Their shells are not as good as hawksbill's but they can also be used for small body jewelry. Eggs from both sea turtles are said to have a distinct taste and very delicious.. The direct threats that are influencing the target condition are Hunting Sea Turtles, Collecting Eggs, and Destruction of Habitats. They are square boxes with red color lines. As mentioned above, turtle meat is delicacy to the Palauan people. The meat is served in one identified local food store. Some traditional customs serve turtle meat, although it is not necessary in comparison to pigs. The person who makes the turtle shell money makes more profit out of one large thick one than three small ones. The indirect factors that are contributing factors to the direct threats are the blue lined boxes. They are listed as Tourism, Traditional Custom, Market demand, Insufficient awareness, Hotel development and Outdated laws. Palauan Fishermen mostly take turtles when they get the chance. It does not matter if it's undersize or if it's male or female. This is attributed to greed. Poachers are the ones who get turtle eggs and female turtles nesting on the beach. These people are in need of cash, also an indirect factor. The visiting Sonsorol and Tobi States ships are carrying lots of green turtles from the southwest islands to Koror. Not only turtles but coconut crabs, frigate birds and booby birds for consumption in Koror also. This was revealed to me later by Sonsorol legislator Annie Tirso over the telephone and Father Felix Yaoch on a different occasion. The patrol boat of the national government also loads a couple of turtles either at Helen's Reef, Pulo Ana, Tobi, Sonsorol or Meir, which have been received as gifts to the crew. Certain persons from Sosorol and Tobi states are also getting cash from government officials for bringing back turtles for them. The national government serves turtle meat during Independence Day of the Republic on October 1st. This is the first day of open season so technically its legal. But the question is when did they get it? This is another good example of the national government not showing good examples to the public. Another member of the group mentioned that fishermen from her state in Babeldaob get turtles because there are no state laws or they don't have law enforcement. This is also true for female turtles coming up the beach to nest.

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Many people regard national laws as not applicable to them because they are in the remote village (State) away from Koror where the national government sits. Some key people in the meeting feel that States should have particular laws to their areas relating to the national. This sparked the interest and discussion, saying that that the laws are very old from the Trust Territory time and should be revised. People also feel that the fines are too small as opposed to the profit the poachers make. A good example is, a fisherman can sell a large turtle for $250 during close season and pocket $150 after paying a fine of $100. The market demand comes from the local food stores. They are buying turtles from fishermen and claim that they bought the meat during open season that was kept in the refrigerator. The yellow boxes are the contributing factors that may also help or otherwise influence the target condition. Education and information about biology may and can change behavior and attitude. This is testified by one of the women stakeholders that she and her husband don't know or have these knowledge and that is why they have been conducting differently. Other boxes include Government Fishery Policy, and Government Tourism Policy. The Government Fishery Policy relates to International Fishing Practices that affects Accidental Take from Tuna Nets which directly threatens sea turtle populations. Government Tourism Policy results in Increased Tourism in Palau and Increasing Hotel Development I[n blue border boxes] that are indirect factors resulting in Removal of Beach Sand for Construction leading to Interference of Habitat. Lack of Environmental Education Program is a good intervention to address the indirect factors of Insufficient Awareness of Regulations which leads to Hunting for Meat and Illegal Harvesting of Eggs that are the main threats.

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Flagship species 1. Hawksbill Sea Turtle (common name), Ngasch (Palauan name) Scientific classification:

Genus: Ertmochelys

Species: E. imbricata Phylum: Chordata Class: Reptilia Order: Testudinata Family: Cheloniidae Distribution Throughout Micronesia, Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New

Guinea, Australia, the South pacific islands to the Atlantic ocean. Spread out in the tropical warm waters.

The hawksbill turtle is distinguished by a narrow, pointed beak. They inhabit tropical coastal waters around coral reefs. The hawksbill turtle is omnivorous, consuming a variety of food including sea-grasses, jellyfish, sponges and crustaceans. The carapace is often posteriorly serrated and the carapace scutes overlap, like shingles on a roof. The scutes are bright mottled coloration (brown,

orange, gold) is common. This multicolored shell is highly valued for jewelry and other luxury items. Nesting occurs throughout the tropical Pacific. Male are identified with long tails extending more than a foot.

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2. Green Sea Turtle (common name), Melob (Palauan name) Scientific classification:

Genus: Chelonia

Species: C. mydas Phyllum: Chordata Class: Reptilia Order: Testudines Family: Chelonilidae Distribution Temperate waters throughout Micronesia, Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Australia, the south pacific islands to the Atlantic ocean.

Green Sea Turtles is recognized by its round, blunt beak (slightly serrarted) and smooth carapace plates (scutes) that do not overlap as they do on the hawksbill sea turtles. Adults can grow up to 3 feet in carapace length and weight up to 300 pounds. They feed primarily on sea-grasses.

Adult males are recognized by their long tail. They get the name green for their green color of fat. Like hawksbill sea turtles they forage and nest in the tropics.

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Work plan The Stakeholder’s meetings agreed on a Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound objective which is to promote “support of a complete moratorium on commercial turtle taking from the traditional chiefs with an introduced legislation by May 2002. Another supporting intervention is when Palau becomes a Party to the United Nation's International Union of Conservation and Nature. Hopefully, patriotism will tie stakeholders to recognize international laws and regulations relating to national independence. Goal: To restore Palau's sea turtle population for future generations. Such that there will be no less than an annual average of 60 nesting hawksbill turtles and 300 nesting green turtles in Palau by 2020. (The specific target numbers can be adjusted in consultation with marine experts). Main Objective: Promote the introduction of a complete moratorium on commercial turtle taking from the traditional chiefs, with an introduced legislation by May 2002. The campaign’s key messages will include the need for a moratorium the commercial take of turtles, the sale of new toluk shell and the movement of turtles from the South West islands. Objective [01]: a: By the end of the project at least 51 % of students in the Republic of Palau will understand the importance of conserving Palau's Sea Turtles and can give 3 reasons for doing so. And, b: By May 31st 2002, 75% of Palau’s 4000 Elementary and High School Children will have signed a petition in support of a moratorium on the prohibition of taking sea turtles and that this petition will have been presented to the State and National leadership. [see also Objective 2] Factors in Conceptual Model Targeted by Objective: a: Insufficient awareness and appreciation for Turtle plight, and b: Insufficient awareness of regulations. These indirect factors are linked to a: Hunting for meat; b: Illegal harvesting of eggs; and c: Outdated/poorly Enforced National Law for Turtles. [See Conceptual Model].

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Project Assumptions: 1: During the initial Stakeholder meeting participants noted that members of the general public – including school children – were unaware of the plight of Palau’s turtles and the legislation that afford them protection. This fact was collaborated with data collected from a questionnaire sample that sampled 4% of the Palauan population and from published background materials. 2: It is assumed that outreach and education activities will lead to significant changes in knowledge of those exposed to the messages Underlying Assumptions: 1: If children learn about the importance of turtles and turtle habitat they will take actions, such as signing a petition, to conserve them. And, that in delivering this petition, as well as in talking with their parents, this will lead to changes in policy including the establishment of an effective Moratorium. 2: That different materials and approaches are required to reach the general public, school children, fishermen and government officials. And, that a fun, innovative program that includes costumes, comics and pins is one such approach to target children. Activity 1 [A1] Visit every Elementary and High School in Palau and to talk to as many children as possible. These talks will highlight the plight of Palau’s Turtles, their natural history and the threats that they face, as well as the importance of the marine environment in which they live.

Why do this Activity: In order for school children living in communities within the islands to better understand the life cycle and migration of Palau's Sea Turtles and share information to their parents, and to encourage them to sign a nation-wide petition. How will this activity be carried out: School visits with all the collaborating agencies, i.e. Palau International Coral Reef Center, Division of Marine Resources and Koror Marine Rangers will commence in October. This will start in the north at Kayangel State with school visits during the day and community visits during the night at community centers. All trips are overnight at each state or villages. All visits to all States will end at Angaur state in the south by the end of November. Three different presentations will be divided into 1. Kindergarten to second grade, 2. third to fifth grades and 3. sixth to eight grades according to their level of learning. Visits will talk about biology tying into culture. Materials will be basic with different presentations but uniform concept. Staff from the agencies will alternate the trips. The ministry of education has approved this schedule. A total of 4,200 students will be addressed during this campaign.

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Who will be responsible for this activity: Conservation Education Campaign Counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap with assistance from Palau Conservation Society, Palau International Coral Reef Center, Koror Marine Law Enforcement, Palau International Coral Reef Foundation and Divisions of Marine Resources and Conservation and Entomology under the Ministry of National Resources and the Council of Chiefs.

Who will this activity target: All 4200 school children of the Republic of Palau including local communities. Where will this activity take place: In all 16 Elementary Schools and 8 High Schools across Palau When will this activity take place: Between October 3rd and November 30th. [see annex] Assumptions: The Department of Education, School Principals and Traditional Chiefs approve visit Pre-requisites: Visit approval, production of badges, costume and school song as described in RARE Center’s manual: Promoting Protection Through Pride. Monitoring Plan: See attached Activity 2: [A2]: To produce a coloring book, activity and fact sheet for school children, providing information on Palau’s Turtles, their status and protection, as well as the kinds of activities that children can do to help conserve them. This will include signing a petition for presentation to the National and State Governments. This task also provides opportunities for local government and private sectors sponsorship. Why do this activity: In order for school children living in communities within the islands to accurately understand the biology of sea turtles and the importance of conservation and to disseminate information to their parents. How will this activity be carried out: The project counterpart with the authorization from the Ministry of Education will coordinate with principals and teachers the science materials for each presentation. Who will be responsible for this activity: CEC Project counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap. For continuity, all the above mentioned collaborating agencies will support and assist the activities. Who will this activity target: Primary and secondary school students within the Republic of Palau.

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Where will this activity take place: Fact sheets and comic books will be distributed to all schools in the Republic of Palau. When will this activity take place: February to April 2002. [see annex] Assumptions: The Department of Education and School Principals approve visit and material distribution Pre-requisites: Visit approval, assistance with material design as described in RARE Center’s manual: Promoting Protection Through Pride. Monitoring Plan: See attached Activity 3 (3A): The production of two sea turtle costumes for school visit to encourage excitement and curiosity of students to get their attention on the target species. Why do this activity? To attract attention of the school children for the recognition of the plight of the flagship species. How will this activity be carried out? The CEC project counterpart with local seamstress will design and create two costumes of a Hawksbill Sea Turtle and a Green Sea Turtle as the flagship species. Who will be responsible for this activity? CEC project counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap. Who will this activity target? School children across Palau. When will this activity take place? Starting in October until November 30, 2001. Assumptions: Local seamstress will contribute time for campaign support before holiday festivities. Pre-requisites: Local seamstress cooperation, appropriate color and materials. Activity 4 (4A): Art competition for school children (kindergarten, primary and secondary) as a creative way to express their understanding and perception toward their flagship species. Why do this activity? Art (drawing, poetry, etc.) is a fun and honest way for children to portray their understanding and perception of a given message. A competition will encourage and motivate them to give the best of their ability to achieve a desired state, through self pride or family and community.

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How will this activity be carried out?

- a drawing competition for kindergarten, primary and secondary schools on positive attitude, behavior and knowledge.

- teacher will serve as a responsible motivator for students in each school - the jury will consist of a teacher, local non-profit organization, community

group and the tourism industry. - the project counterpart will solicit government and or private sector

sponsorship for prizes for winners. - winners will have their drawings framed and showcased at a strategic

place such as the office of the President, arrival section of the airport, local bank or lobby area at the Ministry of Education.

Who will be responsible for this activity? CEC project counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap. Who will this activity target? Kindergarten, primary and secondary school students. Where will this activity take place? All schools in the Republic of Palau. When will this activity take place? After soliciting for sponsorship with private sectors and the national or state governments, competition will commence February 11 and ends in February 15, 2001. All school principals will be judge on February 22nd during their schedules Principals Forum at the Ministry of Education building in Koror. Assumptions: Approval from the Chief of School Administration, Mr. Kalistus Ngirturong and Director of School Curriculum, Mr. Emery Wenty. Prerequisites: Approval from Mr. Wenty and Ngirturong from the Ministry of Education, drawing materials for schools, prizes for winners. Activity 5 (A5): Produce and distribute Palau Sea Turtles booklet as a supplementary resource to reinforce disseminated facts to curiosity and interests in conservation. This booklet will also allow the opportunity to be shared with adult audience. Why do this activity? A booklet of facts with colorful pictures will enhance curiosity and interests in school children and their flagship species. They will be able to share with their parents, thus vehicles carrying messages. How will this activity be carried out? - literature research on Palau's Sea Turtles - design and print the booklet in catchy and interesting layout - distribute to all schools and teachers

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Who will be responsible for this activity? CEC Project counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap. ] Who will this activity target? Schools, school libraries and teachers. Where will this activity take place? The Republic of Palau. When will this activity take place? Produce in January, 2002, distribute in April, 2001. Assumptions: Support from marine biologists, marine conservation officers, local tour operators Prerequisites: Available data and printing agencies. Activity 6 (A6): Gain support for and sign a petition for a 3 year moratorium on sea turtles with an introduced legislation. Why do this activity? By representing 33% of the local population, students can carry the message to the national leadership. How will this activity be carried out? During the second visit with presentations about conservation, students will be asked to sign the supporting petition. Who will be responsible for this activity? CEC counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap. Who will this activity target? All 4200 students in all 16 states of Palau. Where will this activity take place? In all the 26 schools of Palau. When will this activity take place? In February and March 2001. Assumptions: Biology, culture explained during the first visit to all school, and after presenting conservation, most students will have understood the message for support. Prerequisites: Comic books, posters, pins, billboards, church sermons, legislation pamphlet.

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Objective [02]: By May 31st 2002, meetings will have been held, and outreach conducted to all major fisherman’s, community and other key stakeholder groups throughout the 16 States of Palau to solicit support for a turtle-taking Moratorium and the passage of traditional and contemporary legislation. As result, evidence of poaching and illegal hunting should be reduced from 20 times to 10 times per year. Objective 3 [O3]: By April 3rd 2002, there will be a voluntary agreement by leading gift shop operators to halt the sale of turtle products. Factors in Conceptual Model Targeted by Objective: a: Insufficient awareness and appreciation for Turtle plight, and b: Insufficient awareness of regulations. These indirect factors are linked to a: Hunting for meat; b: Illegal harvesting of eggs; and c: Outdated/poorly Enforced National Law for Turtles d: Slae of shell jewellry. [See Conceptual Model]. Project Assumptions: 1: During the initial Stakeholder meeting participants noted that members of the general public were unaware of the plight of Palau’s turtles and the legislation that afford them protection. This fact was collaborated with data collected from a questionnaire sample that sampled 4% of the Palauan population and from published background materials. 2: It is assumed that outreach and education activities will lead to significant changes in knowledge of those exposed to the messages and that changes in attitude will support the moratorium Underlying Assumptions: 1: If people learn about the importance of turtles and turtle habitat they will take actions, such as supporting a petition, to conserve them. 2: That different materials and approaches are required to reach the general public, school children, fishermen and government officials. And, that a fun, innovative program that includes costumes, comics and pins is one such approach to target children. Activity 1 [A1] Visit communities across Palau and to talk to as many key groups as possible. These talks will highlight the plight of Palau’s Turtles, their natural history and the threats that they face, as well as the importance of the marine environment in which they live.

Why do this Activity: In order for people living in communities within the islands to better understand the life cycle and migration of Palau's Sea Turtles and encourage them to support a nation-wide petition.

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How will this activity be carried out: This activity will be run with the school visits [Objective 1 (A2)] Community visits will be conducted in the evening as campaign moves from state to state. Campaign will start north moving southward. Who will be responsible for this activity: Conservation Education Campaign Counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap with assistance from Palau Conservation Society, Palau International Coral Reef Center, Koror Marine Law Enforcement, Palau International Coral Reef Foundation and Divisions of Marine Resources and Conservation and Entomology under the Ministry of National Resources and the Council of Chiefs.

Who will this activity target: Key community groups and stakeholders in villages across of the Republic of Palau Where will this activity take place: Throughout Palau When will this activity take place: Between October and November 30th. [see annex] Assumptions: The Traditional Chiefs approve visit Pre-requisites: Visit approval, production of badges, costume and school song as described in RARE Center’s manual: Promoting Protection Through Pride. Activity 2 [A2] Erect four billboards and/or murals at prominent locations in Koror and Babeldoab depicting the turtle and the campaign’s key messages.

Why do this Activity: In order to garner public support for a moratorium on the taking of turtles and to remind the public of their plight

How will this activity be carried out: This activity will collaborate with local artists and or students to produce billboards/murals, as well as with the relevant authorities to approve placement Who will be responsible for this activity: Conservation Education Campaign Counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap with assistance from local schools and artists, together with transportation and community authorities

Who will this activity target: The general public Where will this activity take place: Koror and Babeldoab. When will this activity take place: November 2001, erection early in 2002

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Assumptions: Authorities approve billboard placement Pre-requisites: Artists and approval for billboard placement Activity 3 [A3] The production and broadcast of a popular song, that describes the plight of the turtle and promotes its conservation and the campaign’s key messages of the need for a moratorium the commercial take of turtles, the sale of new tolok shell and the movement of turtles from the South West islands.

Why do this Activity: Music is popular in Palau and can supplement other outreach techniques, such as using the media Objective 2 [Activity 5]. Popular songs can be written to carry the campaign’s key messages to specific target groups, such as the islands’ youth

How will this activity be carried out: The CEC counterpart will contact musicians and provide them with the information they need to craft the song’s lyrics. This will then be recorded ar RARE Center’s studios and provided to the local radio station for broadcast This activity will be in conjunction with Objective 2 [activity 5]. Who will be responsible for this activity: Conservation Education Campaign Counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap

Who will this activity target: The islands’ youth Where will this activity take place: Throughout Palau via the local radio station When will this activity take place: Commence November 2001 Assumptions: Availability of musician, recording studio and that the radio station agrees to air the song Pre-requisites: Musician and recording studios. Activity 4 [A4] The production, printing and distribution of a legislation booklet highlighting the laws that protect turtle [and other marine populations] on Palau. This will be distributed to enforcement officers and gift shops nationwide.

Why do this Activity: According to the questionnaire survey, while most respondents know the turtle to be protected, there is ambiquity about the specifics of the legislation

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How will this activity be carried out: The legislation booklet produced during the Biib CEC campaign will be revised, updated, printed and circulated to law enforcement officers, community leaders and others nationwide. Who will be responsible for this activity: Conservation Education Campaign Counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap

Who will this activity target: Enforcement officers, community leaders and gift shops Where will this activity take place: PCS office and distributed nationwide When will this activity take place: January 2002 Assumptions: None Pre-requisites: None Activity 5 [A5] The media will be kept regularly informed of all project tasks and wekly coverage on turtles will be strived for in the local press. The popular song [Activity 3] will be aired on local radio station and the TV used for video releases. In all cases emphasis will be placed on the dissemination of key messages.

Why do this Activity: The media plays a vital role in information dissemination. Most people listen to and/or watch the television, as well as read the local press [see data collection section]

How will this activity be carried out: The CEC counterpart will draft media press releases on a weekly basis and will circulate these to the local media Who will be responsible for this activity: Conservation Education Campaign Counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap

Who will this activity target: The general public Where will this activity take place: PCS Office and in the local media When will this activity take place: Throughout the project Assumptions: Media agrees to air/print releases Pre-requisites: Popular song [activity 3] for broadcast on local radio station

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Note Other complementary activities specifically targeting gift shop owners may include: Identification of an alternative medium for the carvers (possibly coconut) and workshop(s) to train carvers in adapting their skills to the new medium; 2. Provisions of low cost tool kits as necessary to work in the new medium; 3. Ban by shop owners on purchase and subsequently ban on sale of turtle sale jewellery products; 4. Educational pamphlets for tourists (in major languages of visitors); and 5. Public recognition and commendation of the action of participants by PCS, traditional leaders and government. The tourist education component of the Rock Islands project. Objective [04]: In March 2002 [during the annual Palau Women’s Conference] the CEC counterpart will present a plea to the group to draft a and pass resolution to halt the production on new toluk and to recycle old ones. Factors in Conceptual Model Targeted by Objective: a: Insufficient awareness and appreciation for Turtle plight, and b: Shell Money [See Conceptual Model]. Project Assumptions: 1: During the initial Stakeholder meeting participants noted that members of the general public were unaware of the plight of Palau’s turtles and the legislation that afford them protection. This fact was collaborated with data collected from a questionnaire sample that sampled 4% of the Palauan population and from published background materials. 2: It is assumed that outreach and education activities will lead to significant changes in knowledge of those exposed to the messages and that changes in attitude will support the moratorium Underlying Assumptions: 1: If the Council of Bilung [Women’s Group] pass a resolution halting the production of new toluk , the majority of women in Palau will agree and support it. 2: That different materials and approaches are required to reach the general public, school children, fishermen and government officials. And, that a fun, innovative program that includes costumes, comics and pins is one such approach to target children. Activity 1 [A1] In March 2002, the CEC counterpart will present the case for turtle conservation at thePalau Women’s conference and will work with the Bilung to draft a resolution for passage and approval at that meeting. Throughout the year he will visit women’s groups throughout Palau in co-operation with the Paramount female leader

Why do this Activity: One of the main local uses of hawksbill turtle is for the production of new shell money [toluk]. The halting of this activity will positively affect the target condition.

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How will this activity be carried out: Working with the Paramount female leader to obtain permission to talk at the Palau Women’s conference in March and working with that group to draft a resolution. Who will be responsible for this activity: Conservation Education Campaign Counterpart, Yalap P. Yalap with assistance the Bilung. Who will this activity target: Women in Palau Where will this activity take place: Annual Palu Women’s Conference in Koror When will this activity take place: March 2002. [see annex] Assumptions: That permission will be granted and that the group will pass the resolution Pre-requisites: Visit approval.

Hunting


Hawksbill Turtle

Green Turtle

Palau’s Turtle

Population

Hotel lighting


eggs


construction


Practices

Traditional Custom

Local consumption


Hunting for meat

Market demand

Increasing hotel

development



Palau




Need for cash

Sale of Shell

jewellery


Turtles


Law for Turtles

Traditional Shell

Money

Palauan Culture


Turtle plight



Objective [01]: a: By the end of the project at least 51 % of students in the Republic of Palau will understand the importance of conserving Palau's Sea Turtles and can give 3 reasons for doing so. And, b: By May 31st 2002, 75% of Palau’s 4000 Elementary and High School Children will have signed a petition in support of a moratorium on the prohibition of taking sea turtles and that this petition will have been presented to the State and National leadership.

Objective [02]: By May 31st 2002, meetings will have been held, and outreach conducted to all major fisherman’s, community and other key stakeholder groups throughout the 16 States of Palau to solicit support for a turtle-taking Moratorium and the passage of traditional and contemporary legislation. As result, evidence of poaching and illegal hunting should be reduced from 20 times to 10 times per year.

Objective 3 [O3]: By April 3rd 2002, there will be a voluntary agreement by leading gift shop operators to halt the sale of turtle products.

Objective [04]: In March 2002 [during the annual Palau Women’s Conference] the CEC counterpart will present a plea to the group to draft a and pass resolution to halt the production on new toluk and to recycle old ones.

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MONITORING PLAN GOAL: To conserve the Palau's Sea Turtles for future generations Monitoring Strategy: Measure changes in turtle populations over time in the Republic of Palau

What (indicators)

How (Method & Tasks) When Who Where Comments

Nesting turtles

Counts

Comparative counts of nesting turtles

Annually

Koror Marine Law Enforcement, Palau Conservation Society and Palau International Coral Reef Center.

Nesting beaches throughout Palau

Comparative data available

The Executive Director of the Palau Conservation Society cautions: We need to look critically at Palau's capacity to monitor the status of its sea turtle population. At present there is no monitoring framework. Koror State was collecting information through its rangers but the data was never tabulated and collection has subsequently been discontinued. The "Uel Consortium" needs to look critically at a monitoring methodology that will tell us as well as the public if Palau is making progress toward the overall goal. This will be particularly critical if a short-term "bul" will be determined by the status of the population at the end of the period. If the bul/legislation contains a clear target number that can be agreed on as representing "recovery for sustainable harvest" and a clear monitoring methodology so that everyone will know when the goal has been achieved. Objective [01]: a: By the end of the project at least 51 % of students in the Republic of Palau will understand the importance of conserving Palau's Sea Turtles and can give 3 reasons for doing so. And, b: By May 31st 2002, 75% of Palau’s 4000 Elementary and High School Children will have signed a petition in support of a moratorium on the prohibition of taking sea turtles and that this petition will have been presented to the State and National leadership. Monitoring Strategy: Measure changes over time of children’s knowledge in school.

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What (indicators)


Percentage of school children who demonstrate knowledge of the importance of conserving Palau's Sea Turtles Number & percent of children signing petition Passage of Moratorium

Survey: - Develop and pre-test questionnaire - Administer questionnaire to 2% children in target school - Compare with initial survey Signing of petition Signing and presenting petition

By month 7 By month 10 By month 11 May 2002 May2002

CEC counterpart CEC counterpart/ teacher in target school CEC counterpart Children May-August 2002

Kayangel, Ngaraard, Ngiwal, Melekeok, Peleliu, Angaur, Sonsorl and Tobi states Republic of Palau Schools

The 8 states mentioned have beaches

Activities for Objective 01:

• School visit • Puppet show • Comic book • Costume • Art and essay competition • Sea turtles booklet • School song • Badges • Teacher training course and workshop on puppet • Environmental news sheet

Objective [02]: By May 31st 2002, meetings will have been held, and outreach conducted to all major fisherman’s, community and other key stakeholder groups throughout the 16 States of Palau to solicit support for a turtle-taking Moratorium and the passage of traditional and contemporary legislation. As result, evidence of poaching and illegal hunting should be reduced from 20 times to 10 times per year. Monitoring Strategy: Passage of legislation supporting a moratorium on the commercial taking of turtles

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What (indicators)


Moratorium Passed

Documentary evidence

May-August 2002

Community members

Republic of Palau

Cessation of shipping turtles on Govt boat from SW Islands

Govt pronouncement May- August 2002

Govt boats From SW islands

Illegal poaching reduction

Checking annual data base on Illegal Hunting and poaching in Rock Island during moratorium Compare with data before CEC project

By Month 10 By month 11

CEC counterpart/ PCS staff CEC counterpart

Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve PCS, Republic of Palau

Illegal cases database available at PCS and update


• Village visit • Poster • Popular song • Sermon sheet • Bill board • Environmental news sheet • Legislation booklet • Bumper sticker • Stamp

Objective 3 [O3]: By April 3rd 2002, there will be a voluntary agreement by leading gift shop operators to halt the sale of turtle products. Monitoring Strategy: Existence of an agreement to halt production of new toluk. What (indicators)


Agreement passed


May-August 2002

Bilung Group Republic of Palau


• Participation in Annual Women’s meeting Objective [04]: In March 2002 [during the annual Palau Women’s Conference] the CEC counterpart will present a plea to the group to draft a and pass resolution to halt the production on new toluk and to recycle old ones. Monitoring Strategy: Existence of an agreement to halt sale of turtle shell.

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What (indicators)


Agreement passed


May-August 2002

Bilung Group Republic of Palau

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PALAU PROJECT TIMELINE

Project/Activities Pre-project Month 1 Mo 2 Mo 3 Mo 4 Mo 5 Mo 6 Mo 7 Mo 8 Mo 9 Mo 10 Mo 11

July' 01/ Aug'01 Sept' 01 Oct' 01 Nov' 01 Dec'01 Jan'02 Feb' 02 March'02 April' 02 May' 02 June' 02 July' 02

Project preparation: Stakeholder meeting Community survey Project Plan

Project implementation: Fact sheet preparation Poster preparation Poster distribution Badge preparation Preparing school visit lecture material School song production Costume production Puppet show production Puppet theatre show Monitor puppet show School visit Art Competition Production of Wildlife booklet Distribution of Wildlife booklet for students Environmental Newssheet/comic production Environmental Newssheet/comic distribution Sermon sheet production Distribute sermon sheet

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Project/Activities Pre-project Month 1 Mo 2 Mo 3 Mo 4 Mo 5 Mo 6 Mo 7 Mo 8 Mo 9 Mo 10 Mo 11

July' 01/ Aug'01 Sept' 01 Oct' 01 Nov' 01 Dec'01 Jan'02 Feb' 02 March'02 April' 02 May' 02 June' 02 July' 02

Legislation leaflet production Local media: radio, TV, other community forums

Education authorities outreach Women conference outreach Jewelry shop outreach Business outreach Popular song production Popular song recording Popular song airing Billboard production Billboard placement

Post project assessment & reporting: Post project questionnaire design & distribution

Post project questionnaire analysis Post project stakeholder meeting Final report

References: "Protecting Our World Wonder" brochure, Palau Conservation Society Synopsis of Biological Data on the Hawksbill Turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, prepared by W.N. Witzell, Rome 1983 for Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. FAO Species Catalogue, Vol. 11 Sea Turtle of the World, prepared by Rene Marquez M., Instituto Nacional de la Pesca, Centro de Investigacion Pesquera, Manzanillo, Col. Mexico 28200. Palau Domestic Fishing Laws 1998, produced by Division of Marine Resources (DMR), Republic of Palau and the Information Section of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC). Management Plan, 1998, Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve, prepared by P.E.J. Thomas and P.F. Holthus, South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and N. Idechong, Ministry of National Resources, Marine Resources Division, P.O. Box 100, Koror, Republic of Palau www.cccturtle.org/species_class.htm Greenpeace Pacfic Campaign for Conserving Wildlife Species and Fishstocks, 1991 Recovery Plan for U.S. Pacific Populations of the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), prepared by Pacific Sea Turtle Recovery Team for National Marine Fisheries Service, Silver Spring, Maryland and Pacific Region U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Portland, Oregon, January 12, 1998 XII. Acknowledgment: Acknowledgements goes to Alma Ridep-Morrison, Youlsau Bells and Evelyn Oiterong. Mesulang (thank you) from the bottom of my heart for answering my numerous telephone calls, and hordes of information that you provided me. My most heartfelt gratitude to Mike Gilbeaux for most of the turtle facts that I gathered from him from his unpublished report to PCS. Lastly, to my friends/counterparts for Conservation Education Campaign: "Putu" NP Sarilani W. Sundjaya, Togean Islands, Indonesia "Kai" Kriensak Chaturasuksakul, Huai Kum Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand "Rodman" Rodney Galama, TNC, Papua New Guinea "Richman" Richard Malgas, Namaqualand, South Africa Paul Butler, Vice President, RARE Center for Tropical Conservation, my best friend.

Documents

The Republic of Palau Conservation Education Campaign ... · PDF fileresults of questionnaire survey ... -Market Demand -Stop buying ... jewellery Ineffective/non existent State Law