Bio-diversity

Two bird wintering sites of international importance for waterfowl and seabirds are indentified. Preliminary studies suggest that as many as 10% of all wintering birds may be dying in fishing nets every year. The aim of the proposed project is to meet the conservation needs in the area without considerable negative effects on the local community. Education of the local community, particularly fishermen, is expected to result in more responsible attitude towards nature, and promote ideas of sustainable utilization of natural resources. On the other hand, detailed investigations of waterfowl and seabird mortality in fishing gear, along with observations of bird abundance and the analysis of fishing intensity in the inshore waters will allow for preparation of scientifically based recommendations for the mitigation of such bird mortality. The prepared recommendations will be presented and explained to fishermen in a hope of voluntary compliance. They will be also submitted to the Ministry of Environment and other governmental institutions responsible for nature protection in order to be included into any forthcoming legislation on fisheries regulation in the inshore, as well as into management plans for these important birds areas.

Lithuania