Contents Table 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 - Government of Gibraltar...The maintenance or restoration of ‘favourable conservation status’ (FCS) is the overall objective for all natural habitats

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1. Aims of this Management Scheme 2 2. The Importance of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar a. Environment 2 b. Recreation 3 3. Protection of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar a. The Habitats and Birds Directive 3 b. Marine Protection 3 c. Relevant Authorities 3 d. Consultation with Stakeholders 4 4. Conservation Objectives for the Site 4 Maintaining favourable conservation status 4 5. Plans & Projects 5 6. Summary of issues affecting the European Marine Site & their Management 6 a. Water Quality 7 b. Land Based Recreation 13 c. Fishing Activities 15 d. Water Based Recreation 19 e. Ports & Shipping Activities 20 7. Compliance Monitoring Plan 26 Appendix 1. Extent and location of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar SAC/SPA 27 Appendix 2. Monitoring Programme 28 Appendix 3. List of Relevant Authorities and their jurisdiction 33 Appendix 4. No anchoring zones in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters 34 Appendix 5. Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) 35 Appendix 6. Reefs 36 Appendix 7. Submerged or partially submerged sea caves 37 Appendix 8. Glossary 38

Contents Table

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This Management Scheme has been drawn up as a framework to enable the Relevant Authorities to carry out their responsibilities and functions in line with the requirements of the Nature Protection Act 1991, the Marine Strategy Regulations 2011 and the Marine Protection Regulations 2012. These legislative provisions aim to protect both the habitats and species for which the Southern Waters of Gibraltar European Marine Site was designated, but extend to the whole of British Gibraltar Territorial Waters. The Management Scheme is concerned with promoting the sustainable use of a living, working environment. It does not aim to stop people using the Southern Waters of Gibraltar or prevent leisure activities or commercial development in the area. Instead, it brings together all existing management measures in place and provides the mechanism by which these can be delivered so that they do not damage the habitats or species for which the site has been designated. The Management Scheme will not be a static management plan, but an ongoing process that aids decision-making and continually evolves to take account of changing issues and legal obligations. It sets out a regime to monitor the condition of the site’s features and considers options to rectify any deterioration of natural habitats and species and thus maintain favourable conservation status.

(a) Environment The Southern Waters of Gibraltar were approved as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) in July 2006 following Commission Decision 2006/613/EC. A protection regime has been in existence since 1991 through the Nature Protection Act (1991). Following its approval as an SCI, the Government of Gibraltar declared the Southern Waters of Gibraltar as a dual Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protected Area (SPA) through the following legislative instruments:

Designation of Special Area of Conservation (Southern Waters of Gibraltar) Order 2012

Designation of Special Protected Areas Order 2011

Extending three miles to the East and South of Gibraltar and stretching all the way up to the median line to the West of Gibraltar, the marine SAC/SPA has long been recognized as an important marine area due to its rich diversity in species and habitats (see Appendix 1). Sea cliffs and caves, reefs and sandy marine habitats all form part of the marine ecosystem found along the southern shores of Gibraltar. The abundance and richness of species is largely influenced by the strong currents and upwellings that are so characteristic of the Straits of Gibraltar. Seasonal abundance, due to migratory movements between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, results in a multitude of pelagic and predatory fish along with cetaceans including the Striped and Common Dolphins. The latter cetaceans breed in the Bay of Gibraltar. The marine SAC/SPA is also located on an important migration route for seabirds. Many species stop over and feed within the marine SAC/SPA during their migratory journeys and some, such as the Cory’s Shearwater, forage in the marine SAC/SPA whilst breeding. Other species rely on the SAC/SPA during the winter in variable numbers depending on weather conditions (e.g. numbers of Gannets feeding inshore during storms).

2. The Importance of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar

1. Aims of this Management Scheme

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(b) Recreation

There are two main beaches within the marine SAC/SPA namely Camp Bay and Little Bay. These beaches are monitored in line with the requirements of the Bathing Waters Directive (2006/7/EC). Sport and recreational angling along with scuba diving take place within the marine SAC/SPA. In addition, the waters within the marine SAC/SPA are also important fishing grounds. Fishing methods that involve the use of nets, raking of the seabed or artificial lights are subsequently prohibited. Commercial fishing activities within the Southern Waters of Gibraltar SAC/SPA are regulated through the Marine Protection Regulations 2012 which build on the legislative provisions of the Nature Protection Act 1991.

(a) The Habitats and Birds Directives The Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/409/EEC) was introduced to protect all naturally occurring wild birds and their habitats in the European Union. The Nature Protection Act 1991 gives effect to these Directives transposing all the obligations required therein. To help achieve these aims both the Southern Waters of Gibraltar together with the Rock of Gibraltar were designated as a dual SAC/SPA. Further details of the surveillance monitoring programmes currently in operation can be found in Appendix 2. (b) Marine Protection The Marine Protection Regulations 2012 build on the provisions of the Nature Protection Act 1991 and provides additional legislative requirements in relation to activities such as recreational and commercial fishing, scuba diving and other water sports within the entirety of British Gibraltar Territorial Waters. The requirements of both the Water Framework and Marine Strategy Framework Directives are also implemented throughout the entirety of British Gibraltar Territorial Waters. These Directives are transposed locally through the Public Health (Water Framework) Rules 2004 and the Marine Strategy Regulations 2011. (c) Relevant Authorities A competent authority includes any statutory body or public office exercising legislative powers, whether on land or sea. Relevant authorities are those competent authorities which have powers or functions within or adjacent to a European Marine Site. The Relevant Authorities have full control over the contents of the Management Scheme. For the Southern Waters of Gibraltar, the Relevant Authorities are:

• Department of the Environment

• The Environmental Agency

• Gibraltar Port Authority

• Ministry of Defence

• Royal Gibraltar Police

Nature Conservancy Council

3. Protection of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar

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Gibraltar Defence Police

For more information about the roles and jurisdiction of each of these Relevant Authorities, please refer to Appendix 3. All Relevant Authorities are required to discharge their functions so as to secure compliance with the requirements of the relevant local legislation. All the Relevant Authorities that have participated in the development of this Management Scheme recognise and understand that they can do no more than act within their existing powers. As a result, it will be up to each organisation to take responsibility for those areas over which they have statutory duties and powers. (d) Consultation with stakeholders The views of non-governmental organizations and local experts were considered during the preparation of the management scheme. The conservation objective of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar is that of ensuring that the status of European features are maintained or achieve favourable conservation status allowing for natural change. To this end, a monitoring programme is being implemented and scientific research conducted. Maintaining favourable conservation status The maintenance or restoration of ‘favourable conservation status’ (FCS) is the overall objective for all natural habitats and species of wild fauna and flora listed in the Annexes of the Habitats Directive. FCS for species is defined in Article 1 (i) of the Habitats Directive as follows; “Conservation status of a species means the sum of the influences acting on the species concerned that may affect the long-term distribution and abundance of its populations within the territory referred to in Article 2. The conservation status will be taken as 'favourable' when: - Population dynamics data on the species concerned indicate that it is maintaining itself on a long-

term basis as a viable component of its natural habitats, and - The natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the

foreseeable future, and - There is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations on

a long-term basis. This definition contains the main parameters (population dynamics, range, sufficient habitat, prospects of long-term viability) for defining and assessing both the current and target conservation status. It is important to note that the assessment of conservation status not only includes an element of ‘diagnosis’ based on current conditions, but also an important element of ‘prognosis’ based on influences. Such foreseeable future influences could be specific or general threats, positive or negative, medium- to long-term impacts, etc. Similarly, FCS for natural habitats is defined under Article 1 (e) of the Habitats Directive;

4. Conservation Objectives for the Site

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“Conservation status of a natural habitat means the sum of the influences acting on a natural habitat and its typical species that may affect its long-term natural distribution, structure and functions as well as the long-term survival of its typical species within the territory referred to in Article 2. The conservation status of a natural habitat will be taken as ‘favourable’ when: - Its natural range and areas it covers within that range are stable or increasing, and - The specific structure and functions which are necessary for its long-term maintenance exist and

are likely to continue to exist for the foreseeable future, and - the conservation status of its typical species is favourable as defined in (i)”. This Management Scheme can only deal with issues taking place within, or potentially affecting, the European Marine Site of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar. A new activity, whether intended to be a one-off, or ongoing, proposed on or near or anywhere where it could affect the European Marine Site could potentially qualify as a ‘plan or project’ under Section 17J of the Nature Protection Act. Any activity or proposal requiring a license, permission, consent or authorization from a competent authority would qualify as a ‘plan or project’ if it would occur in or near the European Marine Site.

Examples: Port extension Artificial reefs Dredging proposals Creation of marinas Laying of utility cables/pipes

Relevant Authorities (and any other appropriate Competent Authorities) have specific statutory duties to determine applications for certain plans or projects falling within their jurisdiction and often have to work together when a plan or project requires multiple consents from more than one Relevant Authority. This section briefly outlines the procedure required to deal with plans and projects that are treated on a case-by-case basis.

1. The Department of the Environment makes an initial consideration on the likelihood of a ‘significant effect’ occurring on the European Marine Site in consultation with the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) whilst considering other plans, projects and activities and possible cumulative effects.

2. If a significant effect is likely to occur, then an ‘Appropriate Assessment’ must be undertaken

to establish whether or not the plan or project will have an adverse effect on the integrity of the site, before any decisions are made. This will be carried out by the Department of the Environment, but the proponent or developer must supply any information required to produce the required assessment. The NCC must be consulted throughout the process as statutory advisers to Government on all nature conservation issues. Public consultation may also be appropriate.

Further details about carrying out Appropriate Assessments can be found in European Commission document entitled “ Assessment of Plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites – Methodological Guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. The scope and content of an Appropriate Assessment will depend on the location, size and significance of the proposed plan or project in consultation with the NCC. An Environmental

5. Plans & Projects

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Impact Assessment (as required by the EIA Directive) may be sufficient, or a different kind of assessment may be needed. The Appropriate Assessment process will determine whether or not a specific plan or project can go ahead. If it can be ascertained that there will be no adverse impact then the plan or project can proceed. However, if the Appropriate Assessment indicates a potential adverse effect, alternative solutions would have to be considered which remove or reduce the possibility of damage to the site. A plan or project may be allowed to go ahead in the case of overriding public interest (determined by the Minister for the Environment), in which case compensatory measures would be necessary. The issues, affecting the Southern Waters of Gibraltar, have been broken down into broad categories, as follows:

(a) Water quality (b) Land-based recreation (c) Fishing activities (d) Water-based recreation (e) Ports and shipping activities

These categories reflect the range of issues known by the Relevant Authorities that are currently affecting the European Marine Site. However, this list could be changed in future reviews in order to take account of any new activities, if they arise. For each activity group, consideration is made of individual activities and their current management, together with an assessment of any gaps in the management or in the knowledge about the activity’s effect on the Site. For information about how the Management Scheme will be kept up to date and all the required management measures in operation, please refer to section 8 (Compliance Monitoring). The Management Scheme is intended to be a dynamic document that can be updated when appropriate. Updates can be obtained from the Department of the Environment, Duke of Kent House, Line Wall Road, Gibraltar. Updates will also be posted on the Government of Gibraltar’s website (www.gibraltar.gov.gi).

6. Summary of issues affecting the European Marine Site & their Management

http://www.gibraltar.gov.gi/

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There is no heavy industry in Gibraltar but heavy industry does exist in the North section of the Bay in Spain and this could impinge on the conservation objectives of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar. In addition, the Bay is increasingly becoming a more prominent shipping hub which increases the risks of accidental spills and other impacts on coastal water quality. There are two designated bathing areas inside the Southern Waters of Gibraltar (Little Bay and Camp Bay) and another just outside (Sandy Bay). The Environmental Agency monitors bathing water quality in all of Gibraltar’s beaches to ensure that there is no deterioration in bathing water quality. Further to the monitoring carried out by the Environmental Agency, the Department of the Environment is also monitoring the coastal waters of Gibraltar as part of Gibraltar’s obligations under the Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC. A comprehensive benthic invertebrate and sediment monitoring programme is also operational. Any proposed discharges to the sea are heavily regulated and are monitored by the Department of the Environment, who also respond to reports of pollution incidents and can co-ordinate clean-up campaigns. Oil spills are a potentially serious threat to the Southern Waters of Gibraltar, given the high numbers of ships crossing the Straits of Gibraltar. However, there is a strong local contingency plan in place which would be implemented in the event of an oil spill which would minimize any potential effects on the Southern Waters of Gibraltar.

6 (a) Water Quality

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6(a) (i). RUN OFF FROM ROADS AND HARD SURFACED AREAS

Relevant Authorities Other Competent Authorities

Other associated organisations

Authorities associated with activity

Department of the Environment

Technical Services Department

Environmental Agency

Location Storm water outflows around Europa Point, Camp Bay, Little Bay and Rosia Bay.

Frequency

Occasional. More frequent when heavy rainfall follows a prolonged period of dry weather.

Potential effects Contamination from chemicals, oils, diesels, etc. Toxins can affect the marine fauna and flora directly or through bioaccumulation.

Turbidity and habitat smothering may occur close to outlets

Research Undertaken Gibraltar Port Authority monitors Port area.

Hydrocarbons and heavy metals are monitored by the Department of the Environment as part of the coastal water monitoring programme.

Research required Bioaccumulation in filter feeders

Ongoing management

Trapped gullies intercept most fuel, oil and heavier contaminants running off from all main roads. In addition, oil interceptors are being installed in all storm drains.

Water quality sampling near outfalls.

In the event of a major spillage on any road in Gibraltar there is a contingency plan to close off marine outfalls to prevent contamination reaching the marine environment.

Gaps in management None. The Relevant Authorities consider current management to be sufficient.

New actions required Relevant authority to implement new actions

Timescale

Conitinue installation of oil interceptors in all storm drains.


Ongoing

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Location Discharges at Europa Point (Reverse Osmosis Plant) and within the Gibraltar Harbour (OESCO Power Station).

Frequency Continuous

Potential effects Contamination could affect marine fauna and flora

Changes in salinity, temperature and biological oxygen demand near outfalls

Research Undertaken

Outfalls are monitored by the Department of the Environment

Research required None identified

Ongoing management Discharge consents are issued by the Department of the Environment.

All industrial discharges are heavily regulated and are monitored by Department of the Environment. This monitoring is to be continued.

The Department of the Environment and the Environmental Agency responds to reports of pollution incidents and can co-ordinate cleanups and prosecutes polluters.

Gaps in management None. Industrial discharges are very strongly regulated and the Relevant Authority considers that there are no gaps in the current management of this activity.


Timescale

None

6 (a) (ii). INDUSTRIAL DISCHARGES

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6 (a) (iii). SEWAGE DISCHARGES






Location Europa Point.

Frequency Continuous, plus combined sewer overflows occasionally.

Potential effects Elevated levels of heavy metals and other chemical contaminants in sewage

Non-toxic contamination through nutrient input, salinity changes, turbidity changes, organic inputs – effects already listed in previous tables

Decrease in oxygen availability near outfall

Biological disturbance through possible introduction of microbial pathogens

Research Undertaken Various studies have been commissioned by the Ministry for the Environment on the flow and load of the sewage system and the location of the outfall in preparation for the designing and building of a sewage treatment plant.


Ongoing management Discharges are subject to European Directives – Urban Waste Water Treatment, Water Framework and Bathing Water.

All the bathing waters are monitored by the Environmental Agency. This monitoring is to be continued.

The Environmental Agency responds to reports of pollution incidents and can co-ordinate clean-ups and prosecutes polluters.

Gaps in management Sewage Treatment works needs to be provided. Monitoring regime of outfall needs to be established.


Timescale

Design and build of Sewage Treatment Plant Government of Gibraltar

2013-2015

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6 (a) (iv). OIL SPILLS

Relevant Authorities Other Competent Authorities Other associated organisations


Gibraltar Port Authority



Oil Spill Response Ltd

Location Incidents could occur throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters due to its proximity to the Straits of Gibraltar; one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. Currents, wind and waves could transport oil to any area within Gibraltar’s coastline.

Frequency Not common. Minor incidents (tier 1 and ‘trace’) occur about 12 times per year. Tier 2 spills have occurred in the past but have been due to collision or grounding of vessels. The frequency of such incidents averages at 1 a year.

Potential effects Pollution of the marine environment

Loss of species

Physical damage (oiling) to birds resulting in direct or indirect loss of life

Research Undertaken Numerous monitoring programmes operational including water and sediment quality monitoring, protected habitats and species monitoring along with benthic invertebrate surveys.

Research required Further research on potential bioaccumulation of chemical pollution in filter feeders.

Ongoing management Each Bunkering Operator and the Gibraltar Port Authority (GPA) maintain equipment and personnel for a ‘Tier 1’ incident (small spill size which varies depending on circumstances but could be up to 500 litres).

For larger Tier Spills, GPA activates Joint Response Plan which involves assistance from oil spill contractors (currently Oil Spill Response Ltd).

The Department of the Environment advises GPA on cleanup operations. Plans will continue to be monitored and updated.

Exercises are undertaken on a regular basis for personnel, incident management and deployment of equipment, in particular to test sites chosen for booms

The Department of the Environment monitors coastal waters, sediment, protected habitats and species.

Gaps in management Existing contingency plan needs to be integrated with this Management Scheme.


Timescale

Ensure contingency plan and Management Scheme are integrated Expansion of monitoring programme

Gibraltar Port Authority Department of the Environment

Ongoing 2013

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6 (a) (v). ANTI-FOULING PAINTS





Location Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Frequency Continuous, related to the number of boats in the Port of Gibraltar

Potential effects Copper contamination due to the use of copper-based antifouling paints

Historical use of Tributyltin (TBT) as an anti-fouling paint is known to have ecological impacts particularly in marine gastropods.

Research Undertaken The Department of the Environment monitors the waters through its Water Framework monitoring programme – all metals and TBT are regularly monitored.

Research required Bioaccumulation in filter feeders

Ongoing management

The only legal anti-fouling paints available to boat owners do not contain TBT in line with the IMO ban on the use of TBT.

Any vessels entering the Port require certificates to show that they are compliant with the IMO TBT ban.

Regular monitoring of coastal water quality and benthic sediment within British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Gaps in management There is potential for future changes to the types of anti fouling paints that are permitted which could lead to an increase in copper-based paints being used.


Timescale

Department of the Environment to have a watching brief with respect to any changes regarding use of anti-fouling paints and to monitor the waters for any increase in copper levels.


Ongoing

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The recreational value of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar is high since it is very popular with local people and tourists. Through recreation, the public can glean a greater understanding of conservation issues by means of awareness campaigns that are currently delivered by the Department of the Environment. Tourism is also an important player in the local economy, with large numbers of visitors coming from abroad, particularly Spain and the UK. The Southern Waters of Gibraltar consequently forms an important part of the tourist product that Gibraltar has to offer.

The main recreational activities undertaken are angling, water sports and bird watching. There is some debate as to the impact of recreation on protected areas. It has been argued that the presence of people can disrupt bird feeding patterns and draw on their energy reserves which should be stored up for migration. In addition, plants and sessile animals can also suffer from human trampling and seashore bait-collecting. Europa foreshore located in the Southern Waters of Gibraltar has been used by anglers and birdwatchers for many years. This has led to a problem of littering on occasions, and there has been an impact on the intertidal community primarily due to illegal bait collection. The collection of protected species is prohibited under the Nature Protection Act 1991. The Marine Protection Regulations 2012 offer additional protection in this regard.

6 (b) Land-Based Recreation

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Land property services GONHS The Helping Hand Trust Gibraltar Museum Wildlife Gibraltar Ltd

Location The foreshore and paths around the Southern Waters of Gibraltar. Large parts of the foreshore are difficult to access from land.


Potential effects Noise and visual disturbance

Trampling causing abrasion (if people/animals venture onto inter-tidal)

Non-toxic contamination from litter

Toxic contamination by the use of copper sulphate for bait collection

Research Undertaken Numerous research papers on intertidal ecology have been carried out by local marine experts.

Research required Further data required in relation to marine litter

Ongoing management Bait collection prohibited under the Nature Protection Act 1991 and the Marine Protection Regulations 2012.

Gaps in management Continuous monitoring of marine litter currently implemented as required under the Marine Strategy Regulations 2011.


Timescale

Regular cleaning of foreshore for flotsam, plastics, etc, with the exception of organic materials such as seaweed.

Royal Gibraltar Police Department of the Environment

6 (b) (i) PUBLIC ACCESS AND RECREATION AROUND THE FORESHORE

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Relevant Authorities

Other Competent Authorities Other associated organisations



Royal Gibraltar Police

Local fishing organizations

Location Throughout Gibraltar’s coastline.

Frequency Continuous. Generally more activity in summer.


Trampling causing abrasion (if people/animals venture onto inter-tidal)

Non-toxic contamination from litter and loss of line

Exploitation of fish and other marine species

Research Undertaken Studies into the population dynamics of regularly caught fish species in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters.

Research required As above. Ongoing.

Ongoing management All fishing activites regulated under the Marine Protection Regulations 2012

Marine enforcement.

Fishing prohibitions in selected Marine Conservation Zones (see Appendix 5)

Gaps in management None identified. Both the Nature Protection Act 1991 and the Marine Protection Regulations 2012 adequately tackle main issues of concern in relation to fishing.


Timescale

Continue data collection process in relation to all marine resources in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters.


Ongoing

6(c) Fishing activities

6 (c) (i). RECREATIONAL SHORE ANGLING

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6 (c) (ii). RECREATIONAL BOAT ANGLING





Gibraltar Port Authority Royal Gibraltar Police


Location Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters.


Potential effects Exploitation of fish and other marine species

Physical damage from anchors



Research required As above. Ongoing

Ongoing management All fishing activities regulated under the Marine Protection Regulations 2012

Fishing prohibitions in selected Marine Conservation Zones (see Appendix 5).

Police and GPA periodically board boats to check compliance.

Gaps in management None identified. Both the Nature Protection Act 1991 and the Marine Protection Regulations 2012 adequately tackle main issues of concern in relation to fishing


Timescale



Ongoing

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6 (c) (iii)SPEARFISHING & SUB AQUA DIVING





Royal Gibraltar Police

Local diving and spearfishing clubs

Location

Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters.

Frequency Continuous. More frequent during Spring/Summer/Autumn

Potential effects

Overexploitation of protected species

Physical damage to reefs

Research Undertaken Studies into the population dynamics of regularly caught fish species in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters and surveillance monitoring of all reefs.


Ongoing management Application of the Nature Protection Act 1991 which prohibits the collection of any marine species with aqualungs.

Application of the Marine Protection Regulations 2012


Gaps in management None identified. Both the Nature Protection Act 1991 and the Marine Protection Regulations 2012 adequately tackle main issues of concern in relation to fishing and diving


Timescale


Department of the Environment Ongoing

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6 (c) (iv) COMMERCIAL FISHING







Location Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters.


Potential effects

Exploitation of fish and other marine species

Physical damage of protected habitats


Incidental by-catch of protected species particularly marine reptiles and cetaceans



Ongoing management All fishing activities regulated under the Marine Protection Regulations 2012


Police and GPA periodically board boats to check compliance.

Gaps in management None identified. Both the Nature Protection Act 1991 and the Marine Protection Regulations 2012 adequately tackle main issues of concern in relation to fishing


Timescale



Ongoing

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The sheltered waters of the Bay and the dramatic views of the Rock of Gibraltar make this area very popular with water-sports enthusiasts. The marinas in Gibraltar are popular ports of call for yachts cruising in the Mediterranean and as a stopover before going through the straits. Other types of water-based recreation taking place include scuba diving, snorkeling, spear fishing, sailing and jet skiing. The issues surrounding water-based recreation are much the same as for land-based recreation.






Location Numerous locations within British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Frequency All year round. More intense over summer.


Non-toxic contamination from litter , sewage discharges and waste water

Physical damage from anchors

Research Undertaken Surveys of maritime traffic in the Southern Waters of Gibraltar

Research required Further research on monitoring noise pollution in the marine environment

Ongoing management Most sailors on these waters are day sailors and their sinks and toilets on board have minimal use, most are small boats that do not have such facilities on board.

Yachts at marinas are not allowed to discharge their waste to the sea. Marinas take most of the yachts’ waste – all have receptors for rubbish, batteries and oil.

The Royal Gibraltar Police distribute guidance to boat owners on the laws of the sea.

The Department of the Environment monitors water quality as part of its Water Framework Monitoring Programme.

Dolphin Protocol for Dolphin Boat Licence operators

Gaps in management Speed limits not always adhered to. Guidance to boats users on environmental matters


Timescale

Department of the Environment to produce and disseminate environmental guidance for boat users Expand marine noise monitoring



2012 2013

6 (d) SAILING AND MOTOR BOATS

6 (d) Water-Based Recreation

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The Southern Waters of Gibraltar European Marine Site is situated in the Straits of Gibraltar and abuts the Port of Gibraltar. To the west lies the Port of Algeciras, one of the busiest container ports in Spain. Any new projects within the Port of Gibraltar are caught by Section J of the Nature Protection Act. This Management Scheme considers the on-going operation of the Port and any impacts that it could have on the Southern Waters. The Gibraltar Port Authority (GPA) monitors commercial anchoring points using their VTS Radar Facility so as to ensure that vessels anchor within allocated areas and not within the anchoring exclusion zone (see Appendix 4). Anchoring operations by recreational vessels are strictly monitored by the GPA in conjunction with the Royal Gibraltar Police marine section. Such operations are not allowed in the vicinity of listed habitats that require strict protection. GPA strictly enforces a ban on any discharges from vessels in Gibraltar waters. Any vessels found in contravention of the ban are liable to prosecution. Port operators have become more aware of their environmental responsibilities in recent years and are actively pursuing policies that limit the impact of their operations on the environment, whilst contributing to sustainable development. The Port operators are licensed by the Gibraltar Port Authority who seeks to ensure that there is compliance with the requirements of local, European and international maritime legislation. Port Operator licensing conditions are periodically reviewed and are available from: www.gibraltarport.com/port_operator_licences.cfm

6 (e) Ports & Shipping Activities

http://www.gibraltarport.com/port_operator_licences.cfm

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Gibraltar Port Authority (GPA) Department of the Environment


Location The approaches to and within the Port of Gibraltar.

Frequency As required

Potential effects

Physical damage – direct loss and indirect losses due to erosion or changes in sedimentary transport patterns

Changes in sediment structure leading to potential change in fauna and flora

Noise pollution

Potential release of contaminants through sediment redistribution

Research Undertaken GPA undertake regular depth surveys.

Chemical analyses of sediment and water are undertaken and reviewed by the DOE

Research required New sediment quality guidelines being developed by the Department of the Environment.

Ongoing management

The Department of the Environment takes into account environmental considerations during the evaluation of dredging licence applications.

Sediment samples are provided for analysis as part of any proposed dredging licence application. Dredging is prohibited within the Southern Waters of Gibraltar

Gaps in management None. GPA has extensive knowledge on dredging operations in the approaches to and within the Port .


Timescale

None identified

6 (e) (i) MAINTENANCE DREDGING

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Gibraltar Port Authority (GPA)


Gibraltar Pilots Association Gibraltar Maritime Administration

Location Allocated areas within British Gibraltar Territorial Waters


Potential effects

Destruction of habitat through anchoring

Noise and visual disturbance

Research Undertaken Hydrographic surveys of all British Gibraltar Territorial Waters to obtain bathymetric data and delimit protected reef habitats.

Research required None Identified

Ongoing management GPA through their VTS Radar facility continue to monitor any vessels anchoring in the British Gibraltar Territorial Waters. Exclusion zones are enforced around reefs where no anchoring is permitted (see Appendix 4). Where anchoring is permitted within the Southern Waters of Gibraltar, this is restricted to existing designated areas away from areas of conservation importance. Anchoring by smaller craft is additionally controlled by the Marine Protection Regulations 2012.

Gaps in management None. Abrasion through anchoring at the existing designated areas is not considered to have a significant impact on protected features since all anchoring activities are already strictly regulated.


Timescale

None

6 (e) (ii) ANCHORING

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6 (e) (iii) WASTE & SEWAGE DISPOSAL FROM SHIPS





Location Port of Gibraltar and HM Naval Base

Frequency In 2008 a total of 6,982 deep sea merchant ships called at Gibraltar of which 222 were cruise liners, 253 called for cargo purposes, 5965 called for bunkering, 87 called for supply purposes, 154 called for repairs and 301 called for other purposes. An additional 64 warships also called at Gibraltar during 2008. 57 of these ships belonged to the Ministry of Defence and 7 belonged to foreign defence fleets.

Potential effects

Contamination through illegal waste disposal

Research Undertaken Water and sediment quality monitoring continuously carried out by the Department of the Environment


Ongoing management

Non-toxic waste is regulated through MARPOL and the Port Waste Management Plan.

Port Plan and facilities are in place for the collection of maritime wastes.

GPA responds to reports of pollution incidents and has the ability to prosecute offenders.

Gaps in management None . Non-toxic disposal is already controlled and monitoring is in place to detect any changes.


Timescale

None

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GONHS Helping Hand


Frequency

Unknown

Potential effects

Release of ballast waters which may introduce non-native or invasive species

Potential impacts on existing marine ecosystems

Research Undertaken Non-native marine species are monitored under the Marine Surveillance monitoring programme spearheaded by the Department of the Environment

Research required Continue monitoring invasive species as required under the requirements of the Marine Strategy Regulations 2011.

Ongoing management

GPA does not permit the discharge of ballast water within British Gibraltar Territorial Waters which has being identified as one of the main pathways for invasive species in the Bay of Gibraltar.

Surveillance monitoring of invasive species

Gaps in management

Regional cooperation with the aim of forming an Invasive Species Alert System


Timescale

Alert system for Invasive species


Ongoing

6 (e) (iv). INTRODUCTION OF NON-NATIVE SPECIES FROM SHIPPING

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Frequency

Infrequent

Potential effects

Deterioration of local air quality

Deterioration of coastal water quality and subsequent impacts on ecological receptors

Research Undertaken

Water and sediment quality monitoring continuously carried out by the Department of the Environment

Comprehensive Air Quality Monitoring Programme in place. Results are available in real time from www.gibraltarairquality.gi

Research required Monitoring programme already in place to identify any pollution incidents.

Ongoing management

GPA responds to reports of pollution incidents and has the ability to prosecute offenders.

Water and sediment quality monitoring continuously carried out by the Department of the Environment

Comprehensive oil Spill contingency plan.

Air quality monitoring network continuously reviewed by the Department of the Environment and the Environmental Agency

Gaps in management Efforts will continue to ensure that any gaps in management are identified and actioned.


Timescale

Under continuous review. GPA in consultation with Department of the Environment and Environmental Agency.

Ongoing

6 (e) (v) POLLUTION FROM SHIPPING

http://www.gibraltarairquality.gi/

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The Management Scheme is not intended to be a static document – the Relevant Authorities, and in particular the Department of the Environment, will periodically monitor the progress of the management scheme to ensure that all action points are carried out successfully. The Department of the Environment (and other Relevant Authorities where appropriate) will continuously report on the condition of the site. For each activity, the appropriate Relevant Authorities will discuss the ongoing Management measures outlining whether or not these continue to be effective. They will also discuss progress with the actions listed under ‘New actions needed’, particularly if any problems have been encountered with regards to meeting the timescales set out. General reports for the public, regarding progress on the Management Scheme as a whole, will also be made annually through the website (www.gibraltar.gov.gi). Where the Department of the Environment or a Relevant Authority, suspect that a deterioration in the condition of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar is linked to a particular activity, the Relevant Authorities will work together to prohibit any activities that may be affecting the condition of the site. The precautionary principle will therefore be adopted so as to ensure that the favourable conservation status is attained for the Southern Waters of Gibraltar.

7. Compliance Monitoring Plan

http://www.stourandorwell.org/

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Appendix 1. Extent and location of the Southern waters of Gibraltar SAC/SPA

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Marine Habitats and Species Monitoring Programme The monitoring programme designed to assess the conservation status of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar SAC/SPA, along with its constituent EU listed species and habitats, forms part of a wider monitoring strategy that has been implemented in line with the requirements of EU Directives namely the Water Framework and Marine Strategy Framework Directives. These Directives are based on an ecosystem approach concerning the management and protection of coastal / marine ecosystems and therefore any data collected is being used to provide an accurate assessment of the general status of the Southern Waters of Gibraltar. Within this holistic monitoring framework, the specific needs of the Habitats Directive, i.e. monitoring the conservation status of listed habitats and species, is being implemented and will be continuously augmented. The monitoring programme covers other locally important marine species and communities not listed in the Habitats Directive since these play a critical role in maintaining the biodiversity and resilience of EU listed features e.g. reefs. A more detailed explanation of the monitoring that is already being carried out along with further monitoring required is provide below. Annex I Habitats Monitoring There are two Annex I habitats found in the Southern Waters of Gibraltar; reefs and submerged (or partially submerged) sea caves. These include the Eastside reefs, Seven Sisters reef, Europa reef and Vladi’s caves which are renowned for their rich marine life. Tables 1 and 2 list the generic attributes for reefs and submerged (or partially submerged) cave features respectively. The lists are not exhaustive and will be further developed as our knowledge of the factors that determine the condition of these ecosystems improves. These attributes are being monitored as part of the Annex I Habitats Monitoring Program. Table 1. Generic attributes for monitoring reefs.

Attribute Measure

Extent

Extent of the feature Area (ha) measured periodically

Extent of a specific biotope Area and distribution of a typical or notable biotope from the site

Biotic composition

Biotope composition Number and occurrence

Species composition of a specific biotope

Frequency and occurrence of composite species (total or sub-set) from a biotope

Characteristic species

Estimate population size from a measure of the abundance/occurrence/frequency/biomass of a specified species

Biological structure

Productivity – algal biomass

Distribution of all or a range of biotopes Relative distribution of important communities throughout the feature

Structural integrity of selected biotopes

Actual measures will depend on the specific aspects of structural integrity chosen for each selected biotope

Physical properties

Water clarity Average light attenuation measured periodically throughout the reporting cycle

Water density

Water temperature & Salinity

Appendix 2. Monitoring Programmes

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Table 2. Generic attributes for monitoring submerged or partly submerged sea caves.

Attribute Measure

Extent

Extent of the feature Number and location, measured once during reporting cycle

Biotic composition

Diversity of sea cave biotopes Number of all sea cave biotopes (or presence of specified biotopes)

Species composition of characteristic biotopes

Presence and abundance of composite species of characteristic biotope

Biological structure

Spatial pattern of characteristic biotopes Identity and distribution of biotopes

Physical structure

Internal dimensions of each cave

Annex II & IV Marine Species Monitoring

Several species listed in Annex II and IV of the Habitats Directive are found in the Southern Waters of Gibraltar either in transit or as resident species including: Tursiops truncatus – Bottle nosed dolphin Caretta caretta – Loggerhead turtle Chelonia mydas – Green turtle Patella ferruginea – Mediterranean ribbed limpet Lithophaga lithophaga – Date mussel Pinna nobilis – Fan mussel Centrostephanus longispinus – Long spined sea urchin Balaenoptera acutorostrata – Minke whale Balaenoptera physalus – Fin whale Delphinus delphis – Common Dolphin Globicephala malaena – Long-finned pilot whale Grampus griseus – Risso’s Dolphin Orcinus orca – Killer Whale Physeter catodon – Sperm Whale Stenella coeruleoalba – Striped Dolphin Dermochelys coriacea – Leatherback turtle

Intertidal and subtidal marine protected species have been monitored in the past by the Gibraltar Museum under contract to the Department of the Environment with the exception of cetaceans and marine reptiles. Cetaceans and marine reptiles are also been monitored by the Helping Hand Trust. These monitoring programs are currently being revisited and updated in the light of experiences gained. The specific methodologies and frequencies employed to monitor Annex II & IV species depends on the species in question and is therefore varied. Preliminary guidance documents have already been produced by the EU Habitats Committee to aid the data collection/reporting process. An overview of some of the reporting requirements

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according to the EU guidance document titled Assessment, Monitoring & Reporting under Article 17 of the Habitats Directive are listed overleaf: General population dynamics on species including;

- The natural range of species indicating whether it is in decline or is likely to decline in the foreseeable future.

- Population size and trends (current/historic/future prospects). - Incidental capture and mortality of particular species.

The conservation status of species including; - Main threats, species adversely affected and why. -

The mitigation measures suggested/attempted/ employed including the impacts of these measures on the conservation status of species.

Sessile and quasi-sessile marine species e.g. Pinna nobilis, Patella Ferruginea, Charonia lampas, Nudibranchia spp, etc, are being monitored on a yearly basis via diving and intertidal transect surveys. Cetaceans and marine reptiles are frequently monitored using line transect surveys and photo-ID techniques. Data on incidental killings with particular regard to cetaceans and marine reptiles are also collected as part of the monitoring program. Although surveillance reports must be submitted to the Commission every six years, the surveillance process should be carried on a continuous basis. Year round monitoring and the production of yearly reports in this regard is seen as the best method of attaining the surveillance monitoring objectives of the Habitats Directive. Annex I and regularly occurring Migratory Birds not listed in Annex I

The Ministry for the Environment relies on the data collected by non-governmental organisations such as the Gibraltar Ornithological & Natural History Society (GONHS), which continuously assesses which Annex I or regularly occurring migratory bird species occur in Gibraltar. Ornithological research within GONHS is co-ordinated by the Strait of Gibraltar Bird Observatory. This is divided into monitoring and research of passerines and non-passerines, with emphasis on the migration of passerines, seabirds and raptors and an annual passerine ringing programme. The GONHS has a database of records dating back to the 1960's and publishes an annual account of avian records in Gibraltar including the Southern Waters of Gibraltar which is available online [http://www.gonhs.org/records.htm]. A list of Annex I species that are commonly found in the Southern Waters of Gibraltar can be found below. Cory’s shearwater Black tern Gull-billed tern Audouin’s gull Mediterranean gull Common scoter Osprey Mediterranean shag Cormorant Balearic shearwater Little tern Caspian tern Common tern Sandwich tern Levantine shearwater

http://www.gonhs.org/records.htm

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Water Framework Directive

As part of Gibraltar’s commitments under the Water framework Directive 2000/60/EC (WFD), numerous quality elements are used to assess the ecological quality status of Gibraltar coastal waters including the Southern Waters of Gibraltar. These quality elements include physico-chemical quality elements, environmental quality standards for specific pollutants listed in Annex VIII of the WFD, hydromorphological quality elements and finally biological quality elements (e.g. phytoplankton and benthic invertebrates). A comprehensive list of all the parameters that are analysed can be found in table 1 below. Table 1. List of parameters analysed as part of the Coastal water monitoring programme in line with the requirements of the WFD 2000/60/EC.

Chemical / physio-chemical parameters Frequency

General

Temperature* Monthly

Nutrient status - Total N, Total P, NO3, NO2, NH4, PO4 Monthly

Salinity* Monthly

Total suspended solids Monthly

Dissolved Oxygen (DO)* Monthly

Transparency* Monthly

Chlorophyll-a* Monthly

pH* Monthly

Specific pollutants

Priority substances

Pesticides

Alachlor 4 times per year

Atrazine 4 times per year

Chlorfenvinphos 4 times per year

Chlorpyrifos 4 times per year

Endosulfan (alpha-endosulfan) 4 times per year

Hexachlorobutadiene 4 times per year

Hexachlorocyclohexane 4 times per year

(gamma-isomer, Lindane) 4 times per year

Simazine 4 times per year

Trifluralin 4 times per year

Metals

Cadmium and its compounds 4 times per year

Lead and its compounds 4 times per year

Mercury and its compounds 4 times per year

Nickel and its compounds 4 times per year

Polyaromatic hydrocarbons

Anthracene 4 times per year

Fluoranthene 4 times per year

Naphthalene 4 times per year

(Benzo(a)pyrene) 4 times per year

(Benzo(b)fluoranthene) 4 times per year

(Benzo(g,h,i)perylene) 4 times per year

(Benzo(k)fluoranthene) 4 times per year

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(Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene) 4 times per year

Chlorinated Hydrocarbons

1,2-Dichloroethane 4 times per year

Dichloromethane 4 times per year

Hexachlorobenzene 4 times per year

Pentachlorobenzene 4 times per year

Trichlorobenzenes (1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene) 4 times per year

Trichloromethane (Chloroform) 4 times per year

TBT

Tributyltin compounds (Tributyltin-cation) 4 times per year

Other hydrocarbons

C10-13-chloroalkanes 4 times per year

Benzene 4 times per year

BDEs

Brominated diphenylethers 4 times per year

DEHP

Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate 4 times per year

Urons

Diuron 4 times per year

Isoproturon 4 times per year

Phenols

Nonylphenols (4-(para)-nonylphenol) 4 times per year

Octylphenols (para-tert-octylphenol) 4 times per year

Pentachlorophenol 4 times per year

Other pollutants

Chromium 4 times per year

Copper 4 times per year

Zinc 4 times per year

Biological parameters

Phytoplankton - Abundance & composition (Abn. & Comp.) 4 times per year

Benthic macroinvertebrates - Abundance, composition & biomass Every 6 years

Marine Strategy Framework Directive

In addition to the WFD, the monitoring requirements of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive 2008/56 (MSFD) are also being implemented in Gibraltar. The MSFD requires Member States to determine Good Environmental Status (GES) for their marine waters, and design and implement programmes of measures aimed at achieving it by 2020, using an ecosystem approach to marine management. The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) builds on and complements the Water Framework and Habitats Directives. Actions taken to comply with the Water Framework and Habitats Directives will thus help Gibraltar achieve GES for its marine waters. For example, measures taken under the Habitats Directive to protect the Southern Waters of Gibraltar will complement the MSFD considering that maintaining biodiversity is one of its objectives. The MSFD extends the requirement to maintain or improve the status of marine biodiversity throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters.

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Where the Marine and Water Framework Directives overlap – in coastal areas – the MSFD requires additional measures to address litter and noise. The MSFD therefore builds on the existing coastal monitoring programme developed by the Department of the Environment.

Authority Type of authority Area of Jurisdiction

Gibraltar Port Authority Port Authority Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters


Implements statutory nature conservation duties, including European duties, on behalf of Government.

Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Royal Gibraltar Police Law enforcement Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

The Environmental Agency Environment protection; Regulatory authority for discharges and other consents

Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Ministry of Defence Military Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Nature Conservancy Council Scientific advisory Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Gibraltar Defence Police Law enforcement Throughout British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

Appendix 3. List of Relevant Authorities and their jurisdiction

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Appendix 4. No anchoring zones in British Gibraltar Territorial Waters

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Appendix 5. Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs)

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Appendix 6. Reefs – Habitat code 1170

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Appendix 7. Submerged or Partially submerged sea caves – Habitat code 8830

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Annex I Bird Species: The species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive are the subject of special conservation measures concerning their habitat. These measures ensure the survival and reproduction of the birds in their area of distribution. Species listed on Annex I are in danger of extinction, rare or vulnerable. The following Annex I species are found in the Southern Waters of Gibraltar: Anthropogenic: Originating from human activity. Anti-fouling paint: Used to prevent ‘fouling’ (the attachment of organisms) on the hulls of boats. The paint releases small amounts of active substances into the layer of water next to the hull, preventing settlement of organisms. If not used, boats can suffer from reduced manoeuvrability and control, as well as reduced fuel efficiency and some organisms can burrow into paint layers and cause corrosion of the hull. Appropriate Assessment: The assessment of plan or project’s implications on the conservation objectives of a European Site. The scope and content of what constitutes an appropriate assessment will depend on the location, size and significance of the proposed plan or project. The conclusions of the assessment should enable the competent authority to ascertain whether the proposal would adversely affect the integrity of the site. Ballast water: Water taken on by a ship to add weight and increase stability, when the ship has a light load. It is discharged when the ship has a heavy load. Benthic invertebrates: Animals living in the sediment. Benthos: Those organisms (described as benthic) attached to, or living on, in or near the seabed, including that part which is exposed by tides. Bathymetric: Pertaining to bathymetry; relating to the measurement of depths, especially of depths in the sea. Bioaccumulation: The concentration of fat-soluble chemical substances in the tissues of animals. These can concentrate through the food-web, reaching higher levels in top predators. Birds Directive (EU Birds Directive): The abbreviated term for Council Directive 79/409/EEC of 2 April 1979 on the Conservation of Wild Birds. This Directive aims to protect bird species within the EC through the conservation of populations of certain birds and the habitats used by these species. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD): An empirical standardised laboratory test designed to measure the oxygen requirements (demands) of the bacteria which break down the organic matter in a given effluent. It is an approximate measure of biochemically degradable organic matter in a water sample. Competent Authority: Any minister, government department, public or statutory undertaker, public body or person holding a public office that exercises legislative powers.

Appendix 8. Glossary

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Compliance monitoring: Monitoring undertaken against accepted standards to ensure that agreed or required measures are being followed. Condition monitoring: Monitoring undertaken against conservation objectives to ensure that the Site’s interest features are attaining favourable condition. For those interest features of which there is little or no knowledge, it involves monitoring to establish a baseline against which future change in the condition of the features can be assessed. Conservation objective: A statement of the nature conservation aspirations for a site, expressed in terms of the favourable condition that we wish to see the species and/or habitats for which the site has been selected to attain. Conservation objectives for European Marine Sites relate to the aims of the Birds and Habitats Directives. Contaminant: A substance released anthropogenically (it only becomes a pollutant once it has exerted an adverse biological effect). Dissolved oxygen: The concentration of free molecular oxygen, usually expressed as mg/litre, parts per million or % saturation. A commonly used indicator of water quality. Disturbance: In the context of this Management Scheme, disturbance refers to the effect of any activity which results in the instinctive reaction of birds, causing them to be displaced, or to stop feeding or behaving normally. EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment): An EIA is a statutory procedure for undertaking an assessment of a project's likely significant environmental effects. This procedure helps to ensure that the predicted effects, and scope for reducing them, are properly understood by the local planning authority or Secretary of State when determining a planning application. In the first instance the local planning authority will consider the EIA in parallel with the planning application. An EIA is not necessarily sufficient to be used as an appropriate assessment for plans and projects. European Marine Site: A European Site which consists of, or in so far as it consists of, areas covered intermittently or continuously by seawater. European Site: A classified Special Protection Area, designated Special Area of Conservation, site of Community Importance (SCI) (selected as a candidate Special Area of Conservation (SAC)), adopted by the European Commission but not yet designated), or a site hosting a priority species in respect of which Article 5 of the Habitats Directive applies. Favourable condition: A range of conditions for a natural habitat or species at which the sum of the influences acting upon that habitat or species are not adversely affecting its distribution, abundance, structure or function within an individual Natura 2000 site in the long term. The condition in which the habitat or species is capable of sustaining itself on a long-term basis. Favourable conservation status: A range of conditions for a natural habitat or species at which the sum of the influences acting upon that habitat or species are not adversely affecting its distribution, abundance, structure or function throughout the EC in the long term. The condition in which the habitat or species is capable of sustaining itself on a long-term basis. Foreshore: The part of the shore between high and low tide marks.

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Geographical Information System (GIS): A system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying digital data which are spatially referenced to a geographical region. Habitat: The place in which a plant or animal lives. EU Habitats Directive: The abbreviated term of Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora. It is the aim of this Directive to promote the conservation of certain habitats and species within the European Union. Hydrological: Of the properties, distribution, and effects of water on the earth's surface, in the soil and underlying rocks, and in the atmosphere. Imposex: An abnormality in which male sexual characteristics are imposed on the genital systems of females. The female develops a penis, which may block the genital opening so that egg capsules cannot be laid, sometimes causing reproductive failure and ultimately death. Benthic invertebrates: Animals living in the sediment. Interest feature: A natural or semi-natural feature for which a European Site has been selected. This includes any population of a bird species for which a site has been selected under the Birds Directive. Intermittent discharges (sewage): An intermittent discharge occurs typically from storm management facilities at sewage treatment works and from points on the sewerage system. These discharges are ephemeral and usually consented by the Environment Agency. There are three types of intermittent discharge: (1) Combined sewer overflow (CSO), where a sewer containing sewage and storm water overflows due to heavy rain (this can happen at sewage treatment works too). (2) Emergency overflow, where sewage is spilled to the environment due to power or plant failure. (3) Storm discharge, where a storm sewer discharges to the environment during wet weather. Intertidal: Of or being the region between the high tide mark and the low tide mark. Management Scheme: The framework established by the Relevant Authorities at a European Marine Site under which their functions (including any power to make bye-laws) are exercised so as to secure in relation to that Site, compliance with the requirements of the Habitats Directive MARPOL: The MARPOL Convention is the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes. It is a combination of two treaties adopted in 1973 and 1978 respectively and updated by amendments through the years. The combined instrument is referred to as the International Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto (MARPOL 73/78), and it entered into force on 2 October 1983 (Annexes I and II). The Convention includes regulations aimed at preventing and minimising pollution from ships – both accidental pollution and that from routine operations - and currently includes six technical Annexes. Mean Low Water mark: The line on a chart or map which represents the intersection of the land with the water surface at the average elevation of low water.

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Migratory: Removing regularly or occasionally from one region or climate to another. Natura 2000: The European network of Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas Non-native species: A species which has only been able to colonise an area through anthropogenic interference. Overriding public interest: Reasons for giving a plan or project the go-ahead (including those which are either social or economic in nature) despite the assessment having shown that the plan or project will have an adverse effect on the European Marine Site. The actual reasons may depend on both the importance of the European Marine Site and the importance of the plan or project. Overwintering: The process of passing the winter. Some migratory species of birds overwinter outside the normal breeding area. Plan/project: Any proposed development that is within a Relevant Authority’s function to control, or over which a Competent Authority has a statutory function to decide on applications for consents, authorisations, licences or permissions. Pollutant: A substance that occurs in the environment, at least in part as a result of anthropogenic activities, which has a deleterious effect on living organisms. Relevant Authority: The specific competent authority which has powers or functions which have, or could have, an impact on the marine environment, or adjacent to, a European Marine Site. Review of discharge consents: All discharge consents are regulated by the Public Health Act Part VA 1950 and the Pollution Prevention and Control Act 2001 which are both enforced by the Department of the Environment and the Environmental Agency. Roost: A place where birds regularly settle in order to sleep. Secondary treatment: Secondary treatment is a biological purification stage in which settled sewage from primary sedimentation is digested by microorganisms, mainly bacteria, removing up to 99% of bacteria and 90% of enteroviruses. Sediment analysis: Using grab samples or boreholes, samples of sediment are taken which may, for example, be analysed in terms of particle size and cohesiveness, concentration of contaminants, or organic matter content. Sensitivity: The intolerance of a habitat, community or individual species to damage from an external force. Special Protection Area (SPA): A site classified under the Birds Directive by Member States, where appropriate steps are taken to protect the bird species and their habitats for which the Site is classified. Sub-feature: An ecologically important sub-division of an interest feature.

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Sustainable: (in the context of this Management Scheme) The use of resources to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Tributyltin (TBT): A chemical incorporated into anti-fouling paints, which prevents the attachment and growth of organisms which would otherwise colonise the boat hull’s surface. Turbidity: The measure of light penetration through the water column. Vulnerability: The exposure of a habitat, community or individual of a species to an external factor to which it is sensitive. Water Framework Directive (WFD): Directive 2000/60/EC. An EU Directive which introduces a single system of water management through river basin management.

Documents

Contents Table 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 - Government of Gibraltar...The maintenance or restoration of ‘favourable conservation status’ (FCS) is the overall objective for all natural habitats