BD 1238 BZE-98-G32.doc
UNDP Annual PROJECT REPORT (APR)UNDP/GEF Project Implementation Report (PIR)
2003
Official Title: / Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Barrier Reef ComplexUNDP Project Number: /
BZE/98/G32
/ GEF Project number: /1238
Date of Report: / July 2003 / Date of Last APR/PIR: / June 20021. BASIC PROJECT IDENTIFIERS- Please enter all date (DD/MMM/YEAR)
Country / Belize
Focal Area / Biodiversity
Operational Programme / 2: Coastal, marine & freshwater ecosystems
Date Of Entry in WP / OCT-1998
ProDoc Signature Date / APR-1999
Duration (months) / 60 months
1.1 BRIEF PROJECT DESCRIPTION -Please limit to maximum 100 words.
This project will support the Government of Belize in implementing an integrated coastal zone management programme by undertaking targeted interventions for biodiversity protection in a sustainable manner. These measures include strengthening the planning, management and operation of a network of 7 marine protected areas (five of which are World Heritage Sites); integrating development planning on the cayes with marine biodiversity conservation principles; developing a sustainable financing mechanism; establishing legal and institutional capacities for facilitating bioprospecting; and complementing widespread environmental conservation advocacy with coastal and marine biodiversity concerns.
1.2 BASIC FINANCIAL DATA – Please present all financial values in millions (e.g. 3,502,000 = 3.502)
Funding Source / Institution Name (Acronym, if any) / Proposed Financing
(in Prodoc) / Actual Financing
a. Gef Funding / 5.355
B. Co-financing / UNDP (TRAC)
UN Agency
Government (Cash) / 0.2560
Government (In-Kind)
Bilateral Donors
Multilateral Donors / European Union / 0.661
Regional Banks
Non-Governmental Org. / World Conservation Society / 0.500
Private Sector
Other
Total Cofinancing / 1.581
Total Funding (A+B) / 6.936
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BD 1238 BZE-98-G32.doc
2. PROJECT PERFORMANCESRF Goal (*): / Environmentally sustainable development to reduce human poverty
SRF Sub Goal (*) / Environment for Livelihoods and Energy
Strategic Area of Support (*) / Policy Frame Work
(*) The UNDP Country Office will fill out these fields
2.1 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE- Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.Development Objective / Indicators
(Include Target Value & Time Frame) / Actual Level Achieved
(please provide brief description) / 2002 Rating / 2003 Rating
The goal of the project is to secure the conservation of options and existence values embodied in the second longest barrier reef system in the world. The project purpose is to provide decision-makers and relevant stakeholders with analytical, management, and technical capacities, decision making and planning tools, and financial mechanisms and economic instruments for the long-term conservation of coastal and marine biodiversity / Stabilization of biological and physical parameters that represent the health of the reef. / Reef monitoring reports have indicated that there has been a reduction in the incidence of bleaching but disease occurrence remained relatively constant. Macroalgae continues to show an increase. This may be due to hurricane impacts from 2000-01, which will take a few years to recover from and global climate change influences. Water quality of the coastal zone remains fairly constant with generally good quality. Localized areas of turbidity observed last year have cleared up with the completion of dredging projects.
The GIS capabilities in Land Use Planning, monitoring data remain the most comprehensive database on coastal resources and are expected to expand with the completion of the coastal planning programme. The database is used widely by universities, international partners and local agencies in the preparation of park management plans, etc.
The technical capacity of the staff in marine biology, oceanography, endangered species and land use planning has significantly improved and the agency remains the primary source of technical advice for government, community groups, NGOs and increasingly the private sector on coastal resources development.
Implementation of financial mechanisms and economic instruments for long term conservation of coastal and marine biodiversity has hinged on increases in public knowledge and appreciation for the need, political will and timeliness of the implementation of these measures amongst other things. The project has made good progress in terms of these issues and believes that the timing is now right for pursuing some of the sustainability strategies already identified. / S / S
OVERALL RATING / S / S
2.1.1 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE ASSUMPTIONS & RISKS
DO # / Assumption / Risk (measured as the probability that the assumption will not hold)
1. / The effects of natural occurrences and impacts do not neutralize the positive effects of the project / M
2. / Baseline programs to address issues in sustainable development that also have a bearing on coastal and marine biodiversity, continue and are effective / M
2.2 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVES -Please rate each objective, not each individual indicator.
# / Immediate Objective / Indicators
(Include Target Value & Time Frame) / Actual Level Achieved
(please provide brief description) / 2002 Rating / 2003 Rating
1. / To consolidate capacity to effectively integrate biodiversity conservation concerns into Coastal Zone Policy Framework / By year 2, CZM Plan is developed with wide stakeholder consultations / Cabinet endorsed the National ICZM Strategy in February 2003. This National Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy for Belize seeks to integrate existing legislative, planning and policy requirements for effective coastal resources management, highlighting remedial actions for existing critical gaps and overlaps recognized by stakeholders nationwide. The project besides facilitating the drafting of the document enabled the 3 year nationwide consultations to ensure wide public acceptance and endorsement for integration of biodiversity conservation. The strategy details processes for decision making over the use of the coastal resources to ensure that the economic potential is closely linked with equitable allocation and sustainable use and will promote the scientific understanding that is essential to the setting and maintenance of targets and standards for environmental and natural resources management in the coastal areas of Belize. It is the only Policy level documents regarding biodiversity conservation to be endorsed at the cabinet level.
The strategy also details how the CZM Plan is to be developed and since the adoption of the strategy the coastal planning programme activities have been fast tracked such that a draft of the CZM plan is to be prepared for early 2004. / S / S
By year 4, 8 coastal advisory committees would have been operational / Since year one of the project, three appointed CACs have been meeting regularly. Two additional CACs have been appointed in year 4 of the project and will have their inaugural meeting by end of August 2003. The remaining 3 CACs will be operational by midyear 5.
The coastal planning programme was intended to be a rolling programme, but it was soon recognized that the process of consultation regarding resource use at the local levels proved to be length and challenging. If executed on a rolling basis all the planning regions would not be completed within the project period. Furthermore, a 5 mts delay in processing disbursement request to the EU during the change in offices to Jamaica resulted in some delays. None-the-less the activities have been fast-tracked through the assistance of a consultant to ensure completion by end 2003.
CACs receive training in CZM Techniques as follows:
Year 1 2 3 4
Cum. 2 4 6 8 / Additional training for the new CACs in leadership skills, conflict resolution and consensus building will be conducted by end of year 4 of the project.
Increase in the number of times that CZM Institute provides data and other support to line ministries for decision making related to coastal and marine conservation / The CZM Institute is routinely called on to provide data and advice relating to development applications to the Dept. of Environment, Lands Utilization Authority and Geology and Petroleum Dept.; the institutions with the permitting and regulatory powers. The project facilitates multidisciplinary / multi agency inspections and analysis of proposals and the team’s recommendation is what informs the decision makers who generally adopt the recommendation. Technical advice from CZMI staff on the team has been received as valuable.
2. / The Belize Barrier Reef Marine Protected Area Network is established and fully functional / Management plans for project sites will be revised and updated as follows:
Year 1 2
Cum 2 5 / The Sapodilla Cayes plan revision was delayed due to expectation of funding from Meso American Barrier Reef Systems Project (MBRS) which focuses on the Transboundary points only. Glover’s Reef plan was updated, with revision of Bacalar Chico and South Water Caye plans to commence soon. The project expects the management plans for all project sites to be completed by end of December 2003. / U / U
New management plans will be developed by end of year 3 for the two MPAs proposed by the project / The draft plan for Caye Caulker is to be updated by midyear 5. The plan preparation was delayed, as the construction of MPA facilities was itself setback due to normal procurement challenges. The Plan preparation must be guided by staff as well as the MPA advisory committees (appointed by Fisheries Department) which are now in place.
Gazetting of regulations identified by management plans / No further regulations have been gazetted; there are draft regulations for Gladden Spit.
Increase in occurrence of reporting by voluntary wardens / System has not been initiated and is not expected to be in place by end of year 5. The creation of this system has been hindered by the tacit support for the implementation of such a system by the Fisheries Department as they advise that previous attempts at implementation have failed due to abuse. However there is a renewed interest and confidence in the process by the Fisheries Department as the Fishermen’s Cooperatives are more organized greatly interested in being more involved in management. In addition, there are successful case studies to serve as a guide from Jamaica.
Increased revenue from fines / Infractions reported by Bacalar Chico, Caye Caulker, Glovers Reef, South Water Caye, Gladden Spit, Laughing Bird and Sapodilla Cayes MPAs. Arrests were made or warnings given for these infractions in lieu of fines.
Increase revenue from entrance fees / A proposed fee system for Gladden Spit has been drafted and discussions are underway on the draft regulations. Draft fees are being proposed for Bacalar Chico also. Fisheries Department expects to implement standard fees at all the sites by October 2003.
By year 5, essential infrastructural support for operationalizing management plans is in place / Seven MPAs have received basic infrastructure, boats and monitoring equipment with 24-hour staff appointments. Training has been conducted in patrolling and enforcement, boat maintenance, monitoring. Effectiveness in the operationalizing management plans is difficult to determine as this is dependent on the effectiveness of the oversight by the Fisheries & Forestry Departments) The few reports received from the MPAs do not adequately address this issue by providing sufficient information to enable one to conclusively determine effectiveness. The project intends to assist the Department in developing a reporting template for the MPAs to enable improved assessments.
3. / Caye development plans are integrated with marine biodiversity conservation concerns through a demonstration project / EIAs conducted on Cayes are streamlined with Cayes development plans / Coastal EIAs and numerous site assessments have been conducted with compliance plans issued according to recommendations based on the draft development plans. / HS / HS
Decrease in poorly conducted dredging operations / In the absence of an approved dredging policy, the CZM Institute provides the Geology and Petroleum Dept. with recommendations in accordance with the draft policy and development plans. It has been the project’s experience that the recommendations are incorporated to guide development e.g. in the Caye Chapel case (a Resort Development); the technical service of the institute was contracted by the Department to independently monitor the impacts of the dredging near the island.
By year 4, there exist guidelines on shoreline development, waste disposal and water use for Caye Caulker / The Caye Caulker guidelines have been reviewed by the CAC for submission to CZM Authority for approval by December 2003.
By year 5, there exists a plan for government sponsored programs on sewage treatment and solid waste disposal on the Caye / These plans were completed but were not implemented due to various socioeconomic and political factors, such as the willingness of the community to pay for the services. It was the general consensus that although the facilities were necessary, the financial cost of implementation was too high for many. However, the process for preparation raised the level of understanding and interest of the community and recently the Government has expressed its renewed interest in the plans and has requested them with the intent of pursuing uptake through financial assistance from Spain.
Village Council is using the integrated development plan for allocation of lots and planning of infrastructure / There has been an increase in the use of the Caye Caulker development plan by the Village Council. The completed GIS database on Caye Caulker land use will be provided to the Council by January 2004.
4. / Sustainable financing mechanism for marine biodiversity conservation is established and operational / By Year 3 there exists a streamlined system for collecting and earmarking user fees for CZM Authority and MPAs / The MPA fee pilot study has been largely unsuccessful as the timing for the implementation of fees was not the best (prior to national elections). Moreover, major impediments exist e.g. Legislative Barriers to establishing the System, Resistance from the Private Sector and Low visitation Levels at some MPAs.
None-the less, the project during coast week, facilitated national televised sessions to build awareness of the need for a sustainable financing mechanism. As such a national fee system is being explored for financing of MPAs during 2003-2004.
CZMAI is currently pursuing plans with the assistance of an environmental economist from UNDP to establish a mechanism for MPA fee generation by the end of the year. The plans also includes the introduction of the user fees by end of 2003 for diving, recreational vessels, sports fishing and dredging to support ICZM activities in general. The consultancy provided the necessary focused expertise, which is limited in Belize, and more importantly went beyond identifying options but assisted in the detailing of methodologies for implementation. / U / U
Regulations regarding the collection of user fees are gazetted by law / MPA user fees for Bacalar Chico and Gladden Spit are currently being reviewed for legislative approval. Fees for the other MPAs remain outstanding, but the project plans to support the Fisheries Department in the implementation of Fees for all the Parks by October 2003, the Department’s target date.
By year 4, resources of the trust fund are being employed towards developing alternative livelihoods for communities affected by MPA regulations / Not yet in place. CZMA is pursuing the practicality of building upon the PACT Trust Fund to channel fees collected by CZMAI rather than creating an alternate mechanism. These funds would not only assist in identifying alternative livelihood options, but more importantly, fund the activities prescribed under the ICZM Strategy, CZM Plan and Program. COMPACT has been assisting in the development of alternative livelihoods through partner NGOs such as Friends of Nature, in which CZMAI plays an active role and this, should continue.The project expects this to materialize by the end of November and see very few impediments to this process.
5. / Legal and regulatory capacities for facilitating bioprospecting agreements are in place / Draft legal amendments to facilitate bioprospecting / This component has not commenced as yet, and was due to occur in year 4. Bids have been received for the consultancy and the successful candidate will be selected by end July 2003. / NA / NA
Model bioprospecting agreement developed
Financial mechanism for plowing back profits and royalties into conservation and community development
6. / Training, awareness-raising and information dissemination activities garner public support for biodiversity conservation through coastal zone management and the barrier reef marine protected area network / Increase in enrollment and graduating levels of UB’s Marine Studies Program / Students in UB’s marine program increase constantly with recent trends indicating that the majority of MPA staff, biologists and managers, are graduates of the UB Marine Program. In addition graduates often obtain posts in conjunction with CZMAI, Fisheries, Forestry and NGOs. / S / S
Increase in the awareness of the mandate and function of the CZM Authority and Institute among the general public and other sectors of government / Awareness programs such as web page, TV spots, press releases, lectures and special displays continue. Awareness of CZMA/I has been increased through the first annual Coastal Awareness Week and the implementation of a targeted awareness program focused on key themes such as CZMA/I, dredging, coral reefs and MPAs.
Increase in awareness of conservation issues pertaining to coastal and marine resources / Same as above, enhanced by Coastal Awareness Week through specific activities as symposium, forum, coast fair.
Preparation and dissemination of educational material / Brochures, booklets, newsletters, State of the Coast reports continue to be published and distributed on a regular basis, and displays held.
By year 4, exchanges are organized with at least 3 other projects in the region / Through collaboration with the MBRS project there have been several exchanges of MPA staff and partners from the region for training in MPA management, monitoring, etc. Contacts and involvement are maintained with TRIGOH and BEMAMCCOR. There is constant liaison with regional projects by WWF and TNC, with reef monitoring exchange in 2002 sponsored by WWF.
OVERALL RATING / S / S
2.2.1 IMMEDIATE OBJECTIVE ASSUMPTIONS & RISKS
IO # / Assumption / Risk (measured as the probability that the assumption will not hold)
1. / Interagency collaboration continues to improve and at the extent necessary for project activities. / L
Communities are willing and expressed continued interest in participating in CACs. / L
Government agencies view the CZM Authority and Institute as lead agency to consult with on coastal issues. / L
Research and monitoring conducted by the project is highly useful for decision-making. / L
2. / Meaningful participation in planning and management of MPAs by local communities through the MPAACs. / M
On-site staff remains committed to management and supervisory functions. / M
Patrol plans for MPAs are designed and implemented by the relevant law enforcement agencies. / S
Stakeholders and Tourism sector are supportive and cognizant of the need for user fees. / M
3. / Land, Housing and Planning departments are cognizant of the need for sustainable development of the Cayes and adopt the guidelines for the planning regions. / M
Communities will actively participate in and support the integrated Caye development plans / L
Relevant government agencies adopt proposed guidelines for dredging and shoreline erosion prevention. / L
4. / Tourism industry (dive operators, tour guides, etc) are in full support of the user pay principle. / M
Relevant ministry is committed to enacting legislation for the collection of user and entrance fees. / S
Governments of the MAR are committed to collaborate on the implementation and operation of a MAR fund. / S
6. / The public is receptive and actively participates in coastal awareness and advocacy campaign. / M
Regional collaboration for coastal resource management is existent or maintained. / M
DESCRIPTIVE ASSESMENT (OPTIONAL)
Please use this space if you wish to provide additional information for the purpose of assessing progress towards the achievement of objectives.
Objective 1:
- The National ICZM Strategy was approved by the Cabinet, after a second round of consultations to include fishers concerns and input into the Strategy. The Strategy had undergone 3 years of consultations and as such received overwhelming support by cabinet. It will be sent to the House of Representative by end September 2003 for final adoption.
- The core technical programs of the Institute: coral reef and water quality monitoring, coastal planning, manatee research, data management and public awareness and education continue successfully and are being expanded. Staffs at the MPAs are now trained to participate in the monitoring activities and as such are to become an integral part of the ongoing national monitoring effort.
- The remaining development guidelines and CACs will be completed or established with the fast tracking of the coastal planning program and the receipt of EU funds which have assisted in the delay.
- Despite the successful completion of infrastructure and efficient maintenance of MPA facilities, there is great concern at the delays in revision of management plans. The Plan were delayed until satisfactory levels of manage presence was attained, as well as the establishment of advisory committees for the MPA who’s inputs are valuable to the plan preparation. The plan preparation will commence shortly as selection of consultants is being finalized in July 2003 and plans should be revised by end 2003.
- The passing of regulations for the MPAs is hinged upon the preparation of the plan as well as support from the relevant department.
- The public awareness program has been revised to reflect a targeted approach focusing on 5 key themes: CZMA/I, coral reefs, dredging, mangroves and MPAs. Activities such as Coast Week facilities debates, national discussion and technical reporting on key issues for resource management. Broad public education through Coast Fair allows our partner agency to join us in building national awareness of the benefits of our coastal resources as well as it allows us to highlight our collective efforts at management. Based on the results of the fisher surveys on the awareness of MPAs, particular focus will be placed on increasing the awareness of fishers towards MPAs during the latter part of 2003.
- The UNDP consultant is recommending as a first step, a pilot study for MPA management and self-financing using the Goff Caye proposed MPA as the pilot site. If the Goff Caye MPA is approved and designated, this pilot may provide short term financing for CZMAI and MPA activities in the interim. Mid-term financing options, includes user fees for activities within the coastal zone such as recreational vessels, diving and dredging, are targeted for implementation before the end of the project. In addition, the Goff Caye pilot will serve as the model for MPA financing and management for the MPA network of Belize.
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