Draft as of January 8th 2001 UNDP-GEF Block A Proposal PART 1 – ELIGIBILITY 1. Project name: Conservation of “Tugai” Forest” in the Amu Darya Delta of Karakalpakstan. 3. Country/countries in which the project is being implemented: UZBEKISTAN 5. GEF focal area(s), and/or cross-cutting issues: Biodiversity 2. GEF Implementing Agency: UNDP 4. Country eligibility: CBD: Uzbekistan ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity on 19/07/95 6. Operational program/Short-term measure: GEF OP# 1: Arid and Semi-arid ecosystems GEF OP# 2: Coastal, Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems 7. Project linkage to national priorities, action plans and programs: This project will address the national priorities specifically indicated in the NEAP (1998) and State Program of Environmental Protection and Rational Use of Natural Resources up to the Year 2005, of ecological protection and restoration in the Southern Aral and Amu Darya delta region of Uzbekistan (Republic of Karakalpakstan). In addition, it will directly contribute to the implementation of Section 1, 2 and 3 of the National Biodiversity Action Plan (the System of Protected Areas; Education, awareness and participation; Sustainable use) launched in September 1998. It will build upon and be complementary to the major national, regional and international efforts underway to address the “Aral Sea Crisis” and has strong linkages with other regional/national level initiatives to introduce more integrated and participatory approaches to biodiversity conservation, including the Lake Sudoche Wetlands Restoration Project (GEF/WB), the Western Tien Shan Biodiversity Project (GEF/WB), the proposed Nuratau-Kyzylkum Biosphere Reserve Project (GEF/UNDP) and regional Bukharan Deer Project (WWF). There are additional strong linkages with the National Environmental Action Plan. 8. GEF national operational focal point and date of country endorsement: Submitted: Acknowledged: Endorsed: 15/11/2000 9. Project rationale and objectives: Background: Tugai is a “Turkic” word to describe the unique desert flood-plain forests which occur in the Central Asian arid steppes and lowlands. Though “tugai” is generally accepted as referring mainly to the forested areas it is, in ecological terms, a more complex feature incorporating the transition from open water to sand or mud banks and shoreline, reed formations ( Phragmites and Typha sp.), dense gallery forest ( Populus and Salix sp.), fringe shrub (Tamarix), and finally desert (Haloyxlon, Carex ). This diversity of habitats is matched by a corresponding diversity of flora and fauna including a number of species or sub-species which are restricted only to tugai habitats and are entirely endemic to limited areas of Central Asia, such as the highly endangered Bukharan Deer (Cervus elphus bactrianus). These ecosystems were widely spread in previous times in Central Asia but now remain only as fragments within the basins of the rivers Atrek, Murgab, Tedgen, Tarim, Chu, Ili, Zaravshan, Syr Darya and Amu Darya. In line with the global tend for riparian forest, tugai cover has declined catastrophically and by 1998 covered barely 10% of the area covered 20/30 years previously. The most extensive areas remaining, which in total cover about 300 km2, are in the Amu Darya delta in the Southern Aral Sea area1. Although this is only about 10% of the original occurring in the delta and is heavily fragmented, it is estimated as now constituting 75% of the total remaining in Uzbekistan and 20% remaining within Central Asia as a whole. Though isolated fragments of tugai exist along most of the rivers as linear “points” there are no areas comparable with the Amu Darya delta except perhaps the Vakhsh and Piandzj river valleys in the upper Amu Darya catchment in Tajikistan (an estimated 100km2 of tugai) – however this area faces the difficulty of a prolonged civil conflict and its aftermath. 1 1 Draft as of January 8th 2001 Despite the rapid historical loss of tugai and the continuing threats , tugai is one of the least protected ecosystems in the country constituting less than 1 % of the total protected areas system and a mere 2 % of strictly protected areas (IUCN Cat. I & II) in Uzbekistan2. As a result “tugai” ecosystems, particularly in the Amu Darya delta, have been identified in the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for Uzbekistan as one of the ecosystem in the republic requiring urgent conservation measures. Furthermore, the Bukhara Deer, a highly endangered sub-species of which globally there maybe less than 500 individuals remaining, have been identified as a priority for conservation. The Kyzylkum desert surrounding most of the Uzbekistan tugai along the Amu Drya is also recognized as being of global biodiversity importance and is included in the WWF Global 200 list (Eco-region 130 Central Asian deserts including tugai). Though the area sustained a high level of ecological damage in the past, including the degradation of the Aral Sea ecosystem and damage to the surrounding delta and deserts, the situation has begun to stabilize and major national, regional and international efforts to redress the key causal factors have begun. Furthermore, not all areas of the region were equally impacted by the direct effects of the delta and Aral Sea desiccation. For example, most of the valuable desert ecosystems to the west remain relatively unaffected by the direct impacts of the “Aral Sea Crisis” and, though greatly reduced through clearance and from changes to the flood patterns and river water availability /quality, tugai forest still survives in significant areas along the Amu Darya river and delta. Thus there is still a viable opportunity to conserve and restore the unique and globally important Tugai biodiversity of the region. Description of Southern Aral Tugai Biodiversity: Tugai formations of the Amu Darya delta are some of the longest established and most diverse in Uzbekistan. In addition, the significant numbers of closely distributed areas remaining in the delta has helped maintain better overall ecological integrity of the delta tugai formations than most other “upstream” areas which are geographically more dispersed. Vegetation within the gallery forest and fringe shrub zone of the Amu Darya tugai consists of approximately 65 species, belonging to 21 families and 47 genera of which the most representative families are Chenopodiaceae, Asteraceae and Fababaceae. Tree species are dominated by Saliaceae (5 species), and Elaegnaceae (1 species) and compose about 11% of gallery forest/shrub flora. The shrub zone, which constitutes about 12% of flora, is dominated by Tamaricaceae. Herbaceous perennials consists of about 40% of flora (26 species) and annual/biannual herbs about 37%. Globally significant plants found within tugai complexes (including peripheral desert) include the following IUCN Red Data Book species: Calligonum paletzkianum, C. elegans, C. matteianum, Cousine strobulocephala, C. sogdiana, and Tithymabus scerocyathium. The tugai forests of the Amu-Darya delta contain 28 species of mammals, 43% of the total species diversity of mammals in Southern Aral Sea zone (R.Reymov, 1985). The most significant globally important mammal is the highly endangered Bukhara deer Cervus elaphus bactrianus – it is estimated that around 60% of the Uzbekistan population of this species and 25% of the global population, survives in the Amu Darya delta at Badai Tugai. Other significant mammal species include: Myotis capaccinii, the Turkmen gerboa Jaculus turkmenicus, the Piebald shrew Diplomesodon pulchellum, two species of hedgehog (Long-eared hedgehog Hemiechinus auritus and Brandt’s hedgehog H. hypomelas), Marbled polecat Vormela peregusna, Long-clawed ground squirrel Permophilopsis leptodactylus, the Reed cat Felis chaus, the Steppe/Asiatic wildcat F. silvestris (ornata), the Sand cat F. margarita, the Red and Corsac fox Vulpes vulpes and V. corsacs, Eurasian badger Meles meles, Golden jackal Canis aureus, Grey wolf Canis lupus, Wild boar Sus scrofa, and the Persian gazelle Gazelle subguttarosa subguttarosa. Saiga antelope (Siaga tartarica) historically occurred south of the Aral Sea and in the Kyzylkum and some reports indicate small numbers still occur in these areas. There is a high rate of endemism within the reptiles, with 30 of the 58 recorded species endemic to Uzbekistan or Central Asia (including 9 species of Phrynocephalus, 5 species of Gekkonidae and 2 species of Viperidae, amongst others). Species of particular significance include the Grey monitor lizard Varanus griseus , the Central Asian tortoise Agryionemys horsfieldi and Rhynococephalus rossikovi. 2 2 According to figures in NBSAP the total PA system of Uzbekistan covers 20,520 km2. Strictly protected areas, i.e. zapovedniks Draft as of January 8th 2001 and national parks, cover 8,225 km2. Of this 3 zapovedniks covering a total of 189.5 km2 are mainly intended to protect tugai. Within Karakalpakstan PA’s for tugai constitute less than 1% of total. 3 Draft as of January 8th 2001 Avifauna of tugai forests includes 91 bird species, of which 39 are breeding, 16 are resident, and 18 hibernate and flying through (Lim, Abdreymov, 1977). These include the rare Khiva pheasant (Phasanicus calchicus chroysomeles) as well as a significant number of globally important migratory birds which use the more open wetter areas (flowing water, sand/mud banks and reed) including: Pelicanus crispus, Oxyura leucocephala, Marmaronetta angustirostris and Aythya nyraca (Collar et. al., 1994). The fish fauna of the Amu-Darya river (including delta branches) is represented by 36 fish species from 9 families. Most of the species (23) belong to the Cyprinidae family. Of particular interest globally are the critically endangered, endemic “shovelnose” sturgeons Pseudoscaphirhynchus hermani and P. kaufmanni, bastard sturgeon Acipenser nudiventris, Turkestan barbal Barbus capito conocephalus, Aral barbel B. brachycephalus, Aral white-ear Abramis sapa aralensis, Aral pike Aspius aspius iblioides, Aral shemaya Chalcalburnus chalcoides aralensis, Turkestan gudgeon Gobio gobio lepidolaemus and the Aral roach Rutilus rutilus aralensis. Current Threats: The basic underlying causes of the initial ecological decline in the area date back to inappropriate irrigation and land use policies and practices during the Soviet Union. These are now being addressed by large scale international, national and regional efforts, such as the Aral Sea Basin Programme (WB/UNDP/UNEP/GEF). However, the collapse of the Soviet Union and the emergence of an independent Uzbekistan has spawned a number of additional threats which must also be countered if the global biodiversity value of the area is to be conserved. These new threats are principally related to the economic decline brought about by the difficult transition to a free market economy which, combined with the stresses of the ecological “crisis”, has resulted in the over intensive utilizing of the remaining natural / semi-natural areas by rural populations for grazing, fuel wood, hunting and other purposes. In addition, restricted government budgets have loosened the state controls over resource use as well as undercut its ability to carry out conservation activities. The inadequate historical valuation of biological resources and, therefore the lack of a well-developed plan for their management and conservation or consideration within other sector plans, exacerbated this situation. For example, the protected areas system in Karakalpakstan is totally inadequate both in terms of size and ecosystem coverage with less than 0.1 % of land area and only one ecotype strictly protected. Water management plans rarely considered impacts on biodiversity and general ecological stability. Compounding these problems, management approaches to nature protection and use are outdated and unrealistic in the face of the current environmental and socio-economic conditions, and no strategic planning for biological resources conservation and use has as yet been attempted in Karakalpakstan. It has been recognized by the Government of Uzbekistan that, to achieve sustainable development, the stabilization of ecological conditions through the conservation of existing ecosystems and the restoration of damaged ecosystems, is an important issue for the nation as a whole and Karakalpakstan in particular (NBSAP 1998). Without actions to ensure this the other massive efforts both by the government and donors to address the underlying causes of the “Aral Sea Crisis” will not fulfill their full objectives. Furthermore tugai is recognized as being a nationally important biological, socio-economic and cultural resource and that its conservation and wise use is necessary for the sustainable development of the region. This is the national priority, and the global priority is the conservation of unique tugai gallery forest ecosystems of global biodiversity importance and the sound management and restoration of degraded habitats to ensure survival of globally threatened species. Project strategy: The basic strategy of the project is to use a programmatic approach to securing the conservation of the unique tugai gallery forests in the Southern Aral Sea region through the establishment of an extensive conservation management system which incorporates all the major remaining areas of tugai within an established legal and management framework. Key elements within this strategy will be the use of traditional strict management approaches to the protection of a limited number of important “core “ sites combined with new integrated conservation and sustainable use approaches for the majority of areas. 4 Draft as of January 8th 2001 In addition, where feasible, wildlife corridors (both aquatic and terrestrial) will be established to link tugai fragments. Local community involvement and the devolution of resource ownership, utilization and management responsibility will form essential components of new management approaches. This will include assistance to local communities to improve local land use practices to reduce pressure on remaining areas of tugai/encourage restoration. Thus the project will not focus just on the protection of specific sites but also on the conservation of remaining Tugai and wetland mosaics within the overall productive landscape. Lessons learned during the project are intended to be replicated within other tugai areas of Central Asia including, if feasible, the Vakhsh and Piandzj river valleys in the upper Amu Darya catchment in Tajikistan. The project is provisionally estimated as requiring approximately 1.5 million US Dollars of which around 600 thousand USD will be co-financed (in cash and in kind) by the Government, UNDP, WWF , the NATO project, and other donors to be concretely identified during the PDFA activities. The project will incorporate lessons and share experience with other UNDP/GEF initiatives in the country, particularly the “Establishment of Nuratau Biosphere Reserve as a Model for Conservation in Uzbekistan” project which should be able to provide tried and tested approaches of application in this project. Objectives: The project has 6 main objectives:- 1. To bring about the legal establishment of a Tugai Conservation Programme (TCP) on the basis of a 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. new or adapted legal framework appropriate for combining traditional “strict protection” approaches to tugai conservation with integrated conservation and community management approaches. To develop an overall integrated and inclusive master plan for the TCP including detailed local management plans for individual priority sites3 To establish effective local management structures and build their capacity to effectively execute master / local management plans. To test, demonstrate and replicate sustainable use activities and models To increase commitment for biodiversity conservation through awareness building, particularly at the decision making and local community level. To assist in the establishment of a biodiversity information management system in Karakalpakstan, on the basis of considerable indigenous capacity and in cooperation with other international donors. 3 An important aspect of ensuring the effective conservation of tugai will be the need to maximizing the inter-connectivity of the remaining tugai areas to minimize gradual decline in ecosystem diversity from “island bio-geography” processes and thus ensure the ecological integrity of many of the most fragmented forest patches. To this end the conservation of “tugai clusters” and the maintenance or development of wildlife corridors between areas will be a priority objective within the Master Plan for the TCP. 5 Draft as of January 8th 2001 10. Expected outcomes: 1. Baseline biodiversity, socio-economic, conservation management, and sustainable use data related to tugai conservation available 2. Appropriate legal framework for implementation of required management prepared and approved 3. A Tugai Conservation Programme (TCP), incorporating strictly protected core sites and local 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. community orientated sustainable utilization sites, established An over-arching long term TCP master plan and individual site management plans developed Local conservation agencies, authorities and rural communities with sufficient technical, legal, and organizational capacity to effectively execute management plans. Decision makers, local authorities and rural communities aware of the importance / value biodiversity resources and more specifically of tugai and related ecosystems Water resource decision makers and operators give adequate consideration to tugai water requirements and ensure inclusion of concrete measures in operational plans and activities Local conservation agencies, authorities, rural communities, NGO’s and other local stakeholders participating in the conservation management and sustainable use of tugai gallery forests Sustainable use approaches and models tested, demonstrated and replicated More informed management decision making for tugai and other ecosystems on the basis of an effective biodiversity monitoring and information management system. The long term conservation of tugai gallery forests secured and an improved overall basis for effective conservation of globally important biodiversity in the region due to demonstration of new approaches by the project and increased experience / capacity of local conservation agencies 6 Draft as of January 8th 2001 11. Planned activities to achieve outcomes: 1 Baseline Inventory and Assessment Work: Collection and processing of existing data, identification of gaps and carrying out of additional field research required for further planning including: a. b. c. d. e. 2 3 4. Inventory of remaining tugai resources in the Amu Darya delta4, detailed description of tugai and peripheral area biodiversity, analysis of basic ecological processes and key issues for long term ecosystem maintenance and management, Detailed socio-economic assessment of communities associated with tugai, Assessment / audit of current management and resources, Institutional and legal assessment / recommendations Assessment and study of the sustainable use potentials of tugai forests, particularly for local communities, and identification of appropriate models for community management and utilization. Preparations for Establishment of a Tugai Conservation Areas Programme (TCAP) a. Site selection: Final selection of component sites and principle management approaches for each site (Strict protection / sustainable use / combination of both through zonation) on basis of biodiversity values, practical management considerations and consultation with local authorities and communities. b. Institutional roles: On basis of assessments and through extensive consultation and discussion reach consensus on institutional roles of conservation agencies, agriculture and water management authorities, Academy of Science, local governments, communities and NGO’s in the management of the TCAP c. Legal Instruments: On the basis of assessments and recommendations develop adapted or new framework legislation required for the establishment of the TCAP, ensure stakeholder agreement through consultation and follow-up on government review and approval. Site Management Plans Development and TCAP Master Plan: a. Site Management Plans: To include some or all of the following (depending on site objectives): in-depth background information section; description of threats; conservation and sustainable utilization objectives of site; legal status, boundaries and zonation; key management activities for conservation and sustainable use, approaches and methodologies for community participation and benefit sharing; local land use plans to maximize sustainable livelihoods and minimize conflict with conservation goals; research and monitoring; required administrative structure (personnel, equipment, infrastructure); estimated annual budgets; funding sources and financing mechanisms. b. TCAP Master Plan: A framework document providing an overall description of objectives, management approaches, institutional responsibilities and coordination, system level conservation activities plus summarized versions of the individual site management plans and budgets. Establishment and Capacity Building of Management Structures, Key Institutions and Stakeholders: a). technical and managerial capacity building of conservation, water management agencies and relevant communities, including: formal and practical “on job” training and national / international study tours, limited provision of important equipment and infrastructure b). support to Academy of Science , local environmental NGO’s, authorities and communities to play an active role in the management of the TCAP and individual sites 7 4 Substantial data on forestry resources exists but is not immediately accessible (is held at district level only or between an number of agencies) Draft as of January 8th 2001 5 Demonstration and testing of selected approaches, models and methodologies for sustainable use in tugai: On the basis of options identified during the initial stages of the project, carry out specific activities to demonstrate/test sustainable use approaches/models/methodologies for conservation agencies and local communities and to support their replication at other sites5. 6 Awareness and education: Building public, local authority and rural community awareness, support and participation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, including: the establishment of an information centre to act as a focal point and resource base for public awareness, education and participation development; production of conservation/environmental education materials and development of effective dissemination mechanisms, training of educators/multipliers, including protected areas staff, local teachers, traditional and religious leaders etc. 7 Information management and monitoring system: Design and establish a cost effective and sustainable system for systematic collection, storage and processing of relevant information on biodiversity which is based on existing local technical and hardware capabilities and which builds upon related international donor activities (NATO Remote Sense project). 12. Stakeholders involved in the project: Local level: Council of Ministers of Republic of Karakalpakstan, Karakalpakstan State Committee for Nature Protection, Karakalpakstan State Committee for Forestry, Karakalpakstan Ministry Agriculture and Water Management, Rayon (district) authorities within which territory for TCAP may be required, local communities, local NGO’s. National level: National Biodiversity Commission, National Action Plan Coordination Group, State Committee Nature Protection (Biological Control Unit), State Committee Forestry, National Sustainable Development Commission, Ministry of Macro-Economics and Statistics, national NGO’s Regional level: International Fund for the Aral Sea (IFAS) International level: UNDP, WWF International, NATO Science For Peace Programme. plus requires updating. Current data suggests that the largest concentration of Tugai forests is in Bozatau District (see Annex 1 and 2) but no systematic forestry mapping for the delta exists as yet. However the NATO funded remote sensing and GIS activities currently being initiated will shortly be involved in carrying out such mapping. 5Initial WWF sponsored work into the potential of sustainable use of Bukhara Deer, principally for antler velvet and possibly live sale/translocation, suggest this would be a viable activity with both benefits for local communities and the conservation of the sub-species ( increased total numbers and overall security). To strengthen the gene pool in Karakalpakstan it will be necessary to introduce/exchange breed stock with other viable populations in CA. 8 Draft as of January 8th 2001 PART II - INFORMATION ON BLOCK A PDF ACTIVITIES 13. Activities to be financed by the PDF: Block A PDF funds are sought to finance the initial collection of baseline data and fuller consultation with stakeholders necessary for the preparation of a MSP Project Brief. Specific activities will include the following:A. Initial Baseline Assessments: . USD36,000 i. Inventory of remaining tugai using survey /cross checking of existing data (local government, State Committee Forestry and Nature Protection, local Academy of Science), remote sensing data and analysis (satellite and aerial photos), and field visits ii. Broad socio-economic data including: population of communities near or utilizing tugai, principle livelihoods, use of tugai (if any) and impact, cultural values, existing traditional controls on use. iii. Identification of principle threats, management issues and options iv. Initial assessment of existing legal framework and institutional structures v. Initial assessment of sustainable utilization potentials of tugai and models for community management and use. vi. Initial assessment of baseline, co-financing and IC analysis B. Consultation and initiation of collaboration / integrated planning with other relevant regional and international partners USD 2,000 WWF Bukharan Deer Project, NATO Remote Sensing Centre project, Lake Sudoche Wetlands Restoration component of GEF / WB Regional project, UNDP Micro-credit project, etc. C. Project elaboration and design (Logframe exercise) and Stakeholder consultation:: USD 10,000 i. ii. iii. Initial logframe exercise by project working group composed of key stakeholders (prepare initial problem / objective/stakeholder analysis and on this basis a draft logframe matrix with objectives, outcomes and activities) Dissemination of logframe exercise results and holding of individual and group consultative meetings with all stakeholders to gather feedback and identify implementation responsibilities / institutional arrangements Incorporate changes required on the basis of above review and consultation. D. Incremental Cost Analysis and Co-financing i. Carry out detailed budgeting for the project on basis of project design elaborated and agreed ii. Carry out full IC analysis iii. On basis of gaps in co-financing identified within IC analysis follow up with donors and identify required additional co-financing. E. Preparation of Project Brief: USD 5,000 i. On the basis of initial work carried out prepare a MSP Project Brief including fully worked out IC assessment and logframe matrix. ii. Dissemination and review of draft Project Brief document iii. Finalization and submission to GEF Total cost of PDFA is USD53,000 (GEF25,000, UNDP20,000, NATO3,000, GOU/GOK5,000) 9 Draft as of January 8th 2001 14. Expected outputs and completion dates: 1. 2. 3. 4. Baseline studies / assessments completed (June 2001) Basic project design elaborated/logframe exercise completed (May 2001) Stakeholder consultation completed and consensus reached (July 2001) Project Brief prepared, reviewed, finalized and submitted to GEF/NY (Oct 2001) 15. Other possible contributors/donors and amounts: UNDP: Consultant costs, translation, sundries (USD 20,000) Government of Uzbekistan/Karakalpakstan (SCNP/SCF/local authorities/others): In-kind - information/data and local expertise, and workshop/meeting facilities (USD 3,500 ) Karakalpak Academy of Science: In-kind biodiversity and cartographic data, local scientific expertise (in-kind USD 1,500) Nato Project - Remote Sensing Center in Karakalpakstan: Remote Sensing, GIS mapping and analysis (in-kind USD 3,000) 16. Total budget and information on how costs will be met (including the Block A grant): PDF A: International and National Consultants (Baseline Surveys ) US$25,000 (GEF) International Consultants: Project design facilitation and Project Brief Preparation, overall project management, National Consultants and Support staff: Baseline surveys & PM/Admin. staff. US$ 9,000 (UNDP) US$ 3,000 (UNDP) Data / Information materials: Provision of maps. US$ 8,000 (GoK1.5/AS1.5/UNDP2/NATO3) remote sensing, hydrological/other records and data Translation/dissemination/sundries US$ 3,000 (UNDP) Equipment (computer, printer, GPS) US$ 2,000 (UNDP) Stakeholder meetings/workshops/consultation: Facilities, local travel US$ 3,000 (GoK2/UNDP1) TOTAL US$ 53,000 10 Draft as of January 8th 2001 PART III – INFORMATION ON THE APPLICANT INSTITUTION 18. GEF Implementing Agency: 17. Name: The State Committee of Nature Protection of UNDP Tashkent Karakalpakstan (project executing agency). The Dept. for Hunting and Protected Areas of Karakalpakstan Forestry Agency (project implementing agency) The Bio-ecology Institute of the Karakalpakstan Academy of Science (project proposer and sub-implementer) 19. Mandate/terms of reference: The SCNP for Karakalpakstan is responsible for the overall observance of environmental protection legislation in Karakalpakstan and for related policy and planning. This includes responsibilities for the conservation of biodiversity. 20. Country eligibility: CBD: Uzbekistan ratified the Convention on Biological Diversity on 19/07/95 Glavahota is responsible for the management of Badai Tugai Zapovednik and has responsibilities and experience related to the conservation and use of forestry and biodiversity resources throughout Karakalpakstan. The Institute of Bio-ecology of the Karakalpak Branch of the Uzbek Academy of Sciences was established in 1994 on the basis of the biological laboratories of the Institute of Natural Sciences and the Department of the ecological problems of the Aral Sea area. The objective of the institute is to research the natural resources, plants and animals of the Aral Sea area and to prepare for the appropriate governmental organizations proposals for measures for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of the ecosystems of the region. 21. Recent activities/programs, in particular those relevant to the GEF: The SCNP has been involved in a number of projects and initiatives related to the Aral Sea Crisis and the WB/UNDP/UNEP Aral Sea Programme. Glavahota in Karakalpakstan has been responsible and has experience in the management of Badai Tugai Zapovednik and other protected areas in Karakalpakstan, including the successful captive breeding and release of Bukharan deer and culling of Saiga antelope. In addition, Glavahota has for a number of years worked with WWF as part of a regional project to conserve Bukharan Deer. The Institute of Bio-Ecology has participated in the UNESCO/BMBF (German Ministry of Science and Education) Aral Sea Project for a number of years. Scientists of the Institute also took part in the preparation of the materials for the pilot phase of The Aral Sea Wetland Restoration Project and participated in the GEF/WB financed Sudochye Lake Project. The Institute consists of the following laboratories/research departments:-ecology and physiology of plants, - geobotany, - phytocenology and Ustyurt desert station, - ecology of microorganisms, - hydrobiology, - ecology of lower plants (algae and myco), - parasitology, - icthyology, - ecology of animals, - soils and biotechnology, and - Museum of nature. PART IV – INFORMATION TO BE COMPLETED BY IMPLEMENTING AGENCY 22. Project identification number: Not yet determined 11 Draft as of January 8th 2001 23. Implementing Agency contact person: Mr. Ajiniyaz Reimov (GEF/UNDP Officer), Mr M. Anstey (GEF/UNDP Regional Biodiversity Adviser) UNDP Tashkent. 24. Project linkage to Implementing Agency program(s): National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (UNDP/GEF), National Sustainable Development Commission Project (UNDP), Anti-desertification Action Plan (UNSO), Regional Aral Sea Capacity Development Project (UNDP), Nuratau Biosphere Reserve Project (GEF/UNDP), Wetland Conservation Project (GEF/UNDP). 12 Draft as of January 8th 2001 ANNEX 1: RELEVANT MAPS OF SOUTH ARAL SEA AREA . 13 Draft as of January 8th 2001 ANNEX 2: DESCRIPTION OF CURRENTLY KNOWN & SIGNIFICANT AREAS OF TUGAI FOREST BADAI-TUGAI ZAPOVEDNIK (Strict Reserve) Location: Badai Tugai Zapovednik (Strict State Reserve) is located on the banks of the Amu Darya river in Buruni rayon (district) in the south east of Karakalpakstan. The river forms the boundary with Khoryzem Oblast (region) to the south west of the reserve. The area consists of low lying flood plain with a gentle transition to desert highlands (Sultanuizdag). The Kyzylkum desert component lies to the NE of the reserve and consist of low mountains and undulating plains. Status / Purpose: Badai Tugai is a zapovednik or strictly protected area (see Uzbek Law on Protected Natural Areas) established to provide protection of a classic example of Amu Darya tugai forest and conservation of the highly endangered Buhkaran deer. Theoretically no use beside scientific research is allowed but, in order to bolster falling financing, a limited number of foreign tourists are allowed entry for a small fee. Total numbers of international visitors in recent years have equaled around 150 to 200 / annum. Most of these are primarily visiting the nearby famous historical site of Khiva (50 to 60 km distant). There is significant potential to increase this number of visiters. Size: Badai Tugai is currently about 64 km2 in area including a significant part of the Amu Darya River (which is varies between about 3 km and 500 metres in with). There are current plans to add about 20 km 2 - one area which is contiguous, and one area on the opposite side of the river. In addition to the “tugai” areas there is a potential to include substantial areas (several hundred km2 ) of contiguous Kyzylkum desert including part of the Sultanuizdag hills, where various desert ecosystems exist and which contain a number of globally rare or endangered species including Persian Gazelles (Gazelle subguttarosa subguttarosa), desert monitor lizards (Varanus griseus) and breeding sites of the Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata). Special Features: Bukhara Deer (Cervus elaphus bactrianus), whose habitat is restricted to Central Asian tugai, have been reintroduced to the wild at Badai Tugai (based on an original population of 2 females and one male brought in 1976 from Aral Paiganbar in upper part of Amu Darya in Uzbekistan). They now number approx. 100 individuals in the wild (probably close to carrying capacity) mostly as a result of a very successfully captive breed and reintroduction programme (currently about 16 individuals are in captivity for this purpose). Badai Tugai thus contains about 60% of the total population in Uzbekistan and 25% of global population (see Annex 3). This area is therefore of critical importance for the survival of the subspecies. Other areas of significant tugai within the delta are also critical for the sub-species in-situ conservation as they provide suitable habitat for reintroduction. However, because of the limited genetic base of the current population will be necessary to actively promote the exchange of breeding stock between the various populations in CA. Provisional conjecture indicate that the connection of different “fragments” of tugai by the Amu Darya and its branches plays a significant role as a wildlife corridor. This could be enhanced by ensuring that existing legislation regarding protection of the river channel and vegetation along river banks is enforced / reapplied to provide a secure terrestrial as well as aquatic corridors. Threats and Key Management Issues: The key threat for tugai ecosystems relates to changes in river flood patterns due to reduction in total river volume, and more importantly, the impact of water infrastructure such as dams and their management. The latter impacts both the level of floods and their timing. The effects of this are clear in Badai Tugai Zapovednik where areas of higher relief have degraded to shrub and desert vegetation. On the other hand, recent better flood years and attempts to artificially flood using pumping have demonstrated that such areas recover rapidly under improved conditions. Also, consideration of “ecological” water needs/users should in the future improve as a WB sponsored strategy and operation plan for water management decision making and infrastructure use is under preparation which should 14 Draft as of January 8th 2001 lay emphasis on this. In addition, WB financed irrigation and drainage improvements should improve water quality and eventually volume. However, in view of this issue, the viability of conserving areas such as Badai Tugai in the long term must be looked at in depth during the PDFA. Other important management issues, most of which are shared by the other sites, include: insufficient annual financing, lack of sufficient professional training, lack of adequate management planning and scientific monitoring, total absence of local authority or community involvement, few if any tangible benefits for local authorities and communities. BOZATAU RAYON (District). Bozatau Rayon is located in central Karakalpakstan and is flanked on its western border by the main channel of the Amu Darya river and a number of lakes (see map). The Rayon has a total population of about 20,000 people located in 26 settlements in an area of approximately 2832 km 2 (approx. 7 people / km2). The major economic activities and livelihood is dependent on livestock breeding rather than irrigated agriculture. In the summer months people and livestock undertake extensive movement to ensure sufficient pasture (moving from the south where settlements and some irrigation is located to the northern rangeland part of the rayon). In this context the population retain more aspects of their traditional nomadic lifestyle than many other areas where large scale irrigation development has brought about permanent settlement. On the basis of discussions with specialists in Karakalpakstan and a field visit in September 2000 it appears that significant areas of relic tugai remain within the Bozatau rayon. According to local authorities there remains in total 260km2 of tugai forest of which the largest single area is Erkin-Tugai (approximately 40km2) located between Dautkul Lake and Amudarya river. Currently the forests appear to be utilized to some extent by local people for grazing, hunting and collection of useful plants / fuel wood. However, there seems to be some level of traditional or local authority (or both) controls on use which has prevented their total destruction and provides a potential basis for the development of more established, extensive and effective conservation and sustainable use activities. Furthermore the local authorities expressed a strong interest in the establishment of a zapovednik (strict state reserve) and other conservation activities. OTHER AREAS. As far as is currently known there are no other areas as extensive as Badai Tugai or the forest of Bozatau Rayon. However, undoubtedly there will remain many smaller areas within other parts of the Amu Darya delta that may be viable for conservation and sustainable use purposes. This can only be ascertained by work undertaken in the PDFA. 15 Draft as of January 8th 2001 ANNEX 3: Bukharan Deer Populations Based on WWF Data 1998 And UNDP Field Mission in 1999 NB. Where WWF figures are inexact (i.e. between 5-7) minimum figures have been used (i.e. 5) Tajikistan 1990 figures based on assumption that war has caused the removal of all Tajik populations except Tigravaja where WWF report an estimated 40 - Badai Tugai figures from field notes in June 1999 based on reserve staff reports (100 wild, 20 captive) In addition to those indicated here there is a small possibility that small populations exist along the Syrdarya river - however, no reports are known at this time. Country/place Uzbekistan Aral-Pajganbar zap. Kyzylkum zap. Badai Tugai zap. Zarafshan zap. Uzb. Total Turkmenistan Borli Djigerbent and Karagiir Gorelde (Amudarya zap) Kabakli (Amudarya zap) Nargis Tcharshanga Turk. Total Tajikistan Tigrovaja Balka Vakhsh and Piandj Ramit Taj. Total Kazakhstan Karatchingil Kaz. Total OVERALL TOTALS late 1980’s Currently (end 1990’s) 100 150 0 0 250 0 70 116 7 193 Unknown “ “ “ “ “ “ 7 10 20 5 6 20 78 250 100 150 500 40 0 0 40 80 80 830 200 200 511 Zap. = Zapovednik (Strict State Reserve) 16 Draft as of January 8th 2001 ANNEX 4: OTHER RELEVANT PLANNED / ONGOING INTERNATIONAL DONOR ACTIVITIES IN PROJECT REGION. World Wide Fund For Nature International (WWF): WWF, through their regional office in Moscow, has actively pursued conservation development in the Central Asian states since independence. Initial consultation and investigation resulted in the preparation of a report and “Investment Portfolio” for each country and region as a whole including descriptions of numerous priority project outlines and financial estimates. In more concrete terms they have initiated a number of field activities in collaboration with local (Institute Zoology, Gosbiokontrol and Goskomles) and international partners (CNRS France). Past activities relevant to the GEF project were initial efforts to conserve the highly endangered Bukharan Deer in the 4 CA states where it still occurs. These included experimental captive breeding and translocation, artificial reproduction assessment/preparation, inventory of population and habitat in the Amu Darya valley and delta, and initial assessment of economic potential of Bukharan deer “farming” (biochemical analysis of “velvets” to determine bio-medical value, suitability for husbandry). A project to ensure the continuation of this work within the 4 relevant CA states has been elaborated and financing of approximately USD200 thousand identified ( Large Herbivore Initiative – WWF and Gov. Netherlands). The principle objectives of this project are: to guarantee the long term existence of the species in-situ and in balance with the ecological carryingcapacity of the ecosystem to support reintroduction of the Bukharan deer in suitable habitats within its historic area. to support restoration and normal functioning of riparian forests of the region, for which Bukharan deer is a natural and important ecological component. An additional objective is “to test and develop a basis for the sustainable use of the species for the benefit of local people and conservation of biodiversity” Clearly the WWF project and this GEF proposal, have strong linkages and potential for collaboration.. Discussion and joint planning will be essential to avoid duplication and maximize mutual efforts. World Bank: The world Bank is acting as the main player in the international efforts to address the “Aral Sea Basin” crisis both at a regional and national level. Specific projects or activities of most significance to the GEF project proposed are as follows: Lake Sudoche Wetlands Restoration Component of Regional Water and Environmental Management Project (GEF/WB): This component of the above project, which will seek to stabilize/improve the biological productivity and benefit both biodiversity and local peoples livelihoods, is essentially a pilot project for wider wetlands restoration activities in the Amu Darya Delta. These projects and future activities will therefore strongly compliment this Tugai project proposed. North Bank Amu Darya Drainage Project and related Irrigation Improvement Projects: The project is mainly aimed at improving the water quality of the Amu Darya river (particularly in regard to salinity) by diverting highly polluted / saline irrigation waste water discharge away from the river to desert sinks or the Aral Sea. Pollution of the Amudarya and resulting impacts for downstream users will become an even bigger issue in the future when activities are commenced by other projects to improving irrigation efficiency (such as the Karshi Irrigation Project). This is because, initially, this will result in increased salinity of drainage waste water while fields are flushed of salts and overall volume decreases. In the long 17 Draft as of January 8th 2001 term this project should have an impact on river volume as well as quality as improved efficiency of use since it will reduce off take from the river. These projects have relevance to biodiversity in Karakalpakstan firstly, because they will impact water quality, (and in long term volume), in the delta area (hopefully with secondary benefits for tugai as well as wetlands) and secondly, because a new and extensive waterway will be created by the diversion of Beruni drainage water down a former riverbed of the Amudarya directly to the Aral Sea. The later development is predicted to become, in time, an important new site for wetlands and riparian biodiversity. NATO Project Plan for Science for Peace Proposal 974101: Sustainable Development of Ecology and Land and Water Use through Implementation of a GIS and Remote Sensing Center in Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan. Background The problem to be addressed by the proposed project is the lack of an accurate, current, comprehensive, and usable system of information on water, land, and the environment for the Amu Dar’ya delta. Such a system is a sine qua non to provide decision-makers, planners, and the public with the data, information, and analytical capabilities necessary to make optimal choices to overcome or mitigate the most critical problems of water, land, and environmental management in this area. The system also can play a major role in sensitizing governmental leaders and the populace of the region to the often subtle and complex mutual interactions between agricultural practices on the one hand and the desiccation of the Aral Sea and concomitant ecological impacts on the other. A GIS (Geographic Information System) which incorporates as a major component the use of digital data from low earth-orbit satellites with medium and high resolution resource sensing capabilities offers an efficient, quickly achievable, and cost effective solution to the problem delineated above. Spatially organized conventional attribute (characteristics) data on water, land, and the environment (and other physical and human variables, as needed) can easily be stored in the system database. Digital satellite images with medium and high temporal and spatial resolution may also be stored here. The two basic types of information may then be processed, arranged, analyzed, and combined to provide new types of data and information output specifically tailored to the needs of decision-makers, planners, and the public. The same group of collaborators on this proposal implemented a small-scale, prototype GIS for the delta and Aral Sea in 1995-1998 as part of a NATO Linkage Grant (see section 1.2 above). The President of Karakalpakstan (Mr. Timor Kamalov), republican governmental agencies with land, water, and environmental management responsibilities, Karakalpakstan State University, and local NGOs recognized the value of this work in helping cope with the most serious agricultural and environmental problems of the republic. They expressed great interest in the continuation and expansion of the project that would lead to establishment of a permanent, locally sustained, well-equipped GIS Center in Nukus, Karakalpakstan. This facility could not only produce state-of-the-art GIS products of practical importance in mitigating/solving key water, land, and environmental management problems, but could train local experts in GIS and remote sensing techniques. Such an Information and Planning Center would enhance the application of modern science in the planning sectors of the republic. In the water management area, it could provide fast, accurate, objective and full coverage satellite data in combination with GIS modeling algorithms in order to develop alternative agricultural models to reduce water consumption. In the ecological realm, the center could furnish the information base and the analytical tools to fully describe landscape dynamics necessary to forecast the key ecological changes in the delta. Currently there is no monitoring tool to document the desiccation of the Aral Sea on a monthly or yearly schedule and to gain insight into the. The GIS Center could provide this valuable service through processing and analysis of digital satellite imagery. The GIS Center would, therefore, function as a planning and monitoring instrument for issues of economic and ecological importance to not only Karakalpakstan but also the entire Aral Sea Basin and 18 Draft as of January 8th 2001 countries of Central Asia. Additionally, it would serve as a center for training local scientists and technicians in contemporary GIS and remote sensing methodologies. Great care would be taken to ensure input from local experts to ensure the center would be attuned to local needs and to guarantee its longterm sustainability. Science and Technology to be Developed and Applied The main focus will be on the use of state-of-the-art satellite remote sensing and Geographical Information Systems methodologies and technologies. Satellite information will be utilized for the following specific purposes. Derivation of current and accurate land use classification for the Amu Dar’ya delta (and possibly adjacent desert regions). Utilization of GIS/remote sensing to develop scenarios of improved crop spatial distribution and crop substitution (e.g., soy beans for cotton and rice) that could lead to improved yields and lower per hectare water consumption. Long term evaluation of satellite images (e.g. 1970-1998) to document ecological changes and to describe landscape dynamics. Accurate monitoring of the desiccation process of the Aral Sea on a monthly and yearly basis. Geographical Information Systems will be used for the following purposes. Data capture, storage and organization in one common database for the entire delta (scales of 1:200,000, 1:500,000 and smaller) and at a more detailed scale for selected, critical small administrative districts (rayons) as a demonstration of the power and usefulness of this method of data management Synergy of conventional information (geolocational factors, statistics, scanned or digitized maps, etc.) with remote sensing information to produce new, unique data layers. An example would be areas planted to cotton characterized by low yields, high per hectare water use, salinized soils, which are prime candidates for removing from production or switching to other crops. Developing scenarios of the future desiccation of the Aral Sea on the basis of long term satellite monitoring combined with hydrologic models of surface inflow, subsurface inflow, surface evaporation, and surface precipitation. Modeling of future landscape dynamics on the basis of ground investigations, long term satellite monitoring, and use of process (temporal stage) models of landscape change. Modeling of “normative” agricultural water demand by combining satellite-derived information (on crop types and growth stages) with conventional information (e.g. soil infiltration rates and capacities, evapo-transpiration rates, etc.). Suggesting optimal use of the irrigation network for water allocations and deliveries to agricultural fields via distance and network analysis. Providing a user-friendly interface for local GIS operators. The GIS database will consist of a variety of geolocational data about the physical environment, including characteristics of the soil, groundwater, salinization, and vegetation cover. In addition, statistical information on the administrative districts will be gathered and georeferenced in the GIS in order to provide a consistent and homogeneous database. The entire database will be used for modeling purposes. Satellite information will be primarily derived from NOAA-AVHRR, SPOT4-VEGETATION, Resource MSU-SK, Landsat MSS and Landsat-TM, IRS-1C. Classification algorithms, vegetation indexes, spectral analysis of crops, etc. will be applied to analyze accurately the water management, land use, agricultural and ecological situation in the Amu Dar’ya Delta and adjacent areas. Satellite imagery will be used to monitor the spatial characteristics and their change of the Aral Sea. 19 Draft as of January 8th 2001 Tugai Sub-project: The Subproject will be focused on the following activities: Developing a specific GIS system for Badai-Tugay zapovednik (Strict State Reserve); Evaluation of ecosystems dynamics in the non-irrigated part of the Amu Dar’ya Delta; Forecasts of ecosystems changes under the influence of periodic flooding by reservoirs (in co-operation with SfP project 974357). Badai-tugay Zapovednik is the single natural reserve (zapovednik) in Karakalpakstan. It contains a large massive of tugai forests and rare animals, such as the Buhara deer, Gold peasant, etc. In order to better plan, maintain, and preserve natural ecosystems and wildlife, a GIS system will be compiled and implemented for the Preserve. The prototype system exists. The GIS should be adapted to the preserve regulations and management, and will integrate high-resolution remote sensing data with a GIS database. The managers and scientific staff of the preserve will be the users of the system. Goskompriroda of Karakalpakstan could use this subproject as a demonstration of what could be implemented in other protected areas (e.g., the GEF/WB Sudochye Lake wetlands project). The concept of this GIS might be integrated into planning of the GEF project on wetlands conservation in the Amu Dar’ya Delta. The Moscow GIS group together with the Nukus GIS Center will have responsibility for this activity. Necessary training will be provided for the end-users. 20 Draft as of January 8th 2001 Annex 5: GEF Focal Point Endorsement Translation 15 November 2000. No. 05-1301 To: UNDP Resident Representative Dear Mr. Kral, As the GEF Political Focal Point in the Republic of Uzbekistan I have reviewed an application for PDF’A’ “Conservation of “Tugai” Gallery Forest in the Southern Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan”. In spite of great value of tugai forests there was little or no consideration of them. Therefore, I fully support and consider development of the project as timely and very important. Sincerely Yours, Kh. Sherimbetov GEF Political Focal Point in the Republic of Uzbekistan 21