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Clima-East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities
Inception Report
November 2013
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acronyms 3
Executive summary 4
1. Project Inception Update 5
1.1 Situation Analysis 5
1.2 Project Objectives and Scope 7
2. Progress Made During the Inception Phase 7
2.1 Organizational structure and project implementation unit set up 7
2.2 Cooperation with stakeholders 7
2.3. Establishment of the Project Management Team 8
2.4 Establishment of the Project Board 8
2.5 Selection of the pilot plots in the project area 9
3. Conclusions of the Inception Phase 9
4. Recommendations on key activities to be undertaken during 1st year of implementation 11
5. Risk management 12
6. Relevant On-going Projects 13
7. Work plan and budget for 2013 15
ANNEXES
ANNEX I. Terms of Reference of Project Management Team 18
ANNEX II. Terms of Reference of Project Board 26
ANNEX III. Minutes of Inception Workshop 28
ANNEX IV. Minutes of Project Board 1-st Meeting 33
ANNEX V. Project Workplan and Budget 37
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ACRONYMS
AWP Annual Work Plan CC Climate change EC EU
European Commision European Union
EUD GIS
European Union Delegation in Moldova Geographic Information System
GEF GoM
Global Environment Facility Government of Moldova
FAO IW
Food and Agriculture Organization Inception Workshop
MoEnv Ministry of Environment of Moldova MoAFI NGO PB
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry of Moldova Non-govenmental organization Project Board
PM Project Manager PA PMT ToR
Project Assistant Project Management Team Terms of Reference
UN United Nations UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNDP CO United Nations Development Program Country Office WB World Bank
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The EU-UNDP Moldova project “Clima-East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities” is part of the multi-country Action called Clima East: Supporting Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in Neighbourhood East and Russia (Clima East Pilots). The implementing partner is the Ministry of Environment of Moldova. The project total budget is 535,000 EUR. The project time frame is four years. The pilot project in Moldova started 1 July 2013 and officaly launched on 11 September 2013. The project aim is to demonstrate a natural resource management model in the pastures and forests of Moldova which increases ecosystems’ capacity to sequester carbon under pending climate risks, while at the same time retaining biodiversity and economic values. The project targets the pastures and forest degraded lands located in the Orhei National Park area (33,792.09 ha) and its buffer zone.The main expected results of the project are: Pasture and community forest restoration plans for Orhei National Park area designed.
• 18 communities (5,890.92 ha) with pasture management plans developed based on pasture inventory. • 1,392 ha of community forests with management plans developed.
Forest and pasture restoration projects implemented
• 500 ha of pasture land restored based on developed pasture management plans. • 150 ha of degraded lands afforested based on the national guidelines on scientific forest management and
silvicultural practices for degraded lands using native species.
Carbon assessment and monitoring system in place
• A robust pasture and forest carbon monitoring system in place (consisting of a) ecological integrity of the grassland ecosystem, volume of biomass growth for forest ecosystems and carbon dividends).
• Increased level of understanding at local, regional and national level about sustainable grassland, forest management and carbon benefits.
Proposed activities have been designed in a way to build on and create synergies with the ongoing GEF, UNDP and WB funded projects, as well as projects funded by other organizations. A specific attention will be offered to create synergies with FAO planned activities in the country for promotion good practices of pasture management, development of amendments to the legal framework for pastures and haymaking etc. The proposed investment has “no-regret” character, as it does not generate any negative impacts, either economic or environmental, while at the same time generating multiple benefits. The inception phase began in July 2013. This inception report is the summary of this phase. It documents the review of the project baseline information, strategy, activities and revisions made during the inception phase. Project is implemented by UNDP Moldova. The project will be implemented in close collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry Agency Moldsilva, Local Public Authorities from Orhei region, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, Farmers Associations, Academia and NGOs. Specific emphasis will be placed on ensuring sustainability by ensuring ownership of pilot activities by the partner Local Public Authorities from Orhei region – where the project target area is located. The project will closely collaborate with FAO to support the improvement of the policy, legal and regulatory framework related to the use of pastures and grazing revenues (not covered by this project). The best practices and lessons learned of the pilot projects implemented at community level shall inform and feed into the review and development process of an improved regulatory framework. FAO will be consulted on Terms of Reference and methodologies for sustainable pasture management and related planning processes.
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1. PROJECT INCEPTION UPDATE Context and Purpose of the inception report The project inception phase, lasting ~ 3 months (July 2013 – October 2013) marks the launch of the UNDP/EU project “Clima-East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities”. During the inception phase, meetings were held with all stakeholders to ensure their support for project implementation. The main focus was put on the following activities:
• Presentation and discussion the project strategy and activities with key stakeholders; • Identification of the ways for stakeholders engagement in project implementation; • Identification of the key methodological elements for project implementation; • Identification of the thematic areas to be implemented the first year by the project; • Review and develop detailed work plan and budget; • Organization of the inception workshop with key stakeholders participation.
This phase is summarized in this inception report and lays a new basis for the implementation of the project, reflecting changes in circumstances and/or practical methodological and implementation issues. This inception report is to ensure that all relevant parties have the same baseline information, the same understanding and are committed to the implementation of the project; particularly for its first year of implementation. 1.1 Situation Analysis The project targets the pastures and forest degraded lands located in the Orhei National Park area and its buffer zone. Orhei National Park area is situated in the center-east part of the country on the Central Codrii Plateau on the area of 33,792.09 ha (or 1% of the country territory). The Park was officially established in July 2013 and covers 18 communities from 4 districts of the country. The area has rich natural, historical and cultural heritage recognized at the national and international level. The climate is moderate continental with a relatively warm winter and long hot summer. Characteristic weather conditions of the area are abundant warm, long vegetation periods, and instability during seasons - sudden drops in temperature, rainfalls and droughts. The average annual temperature is 9.5°C and annual precipitation of 510-525 mm. The highest temperature is in July-August (+41°C) and absolute minimum (-32° C) in January-February. Unfavorable factors for the National Park Orhei region are summer droughts and hot and dry winds. The area population is approx. 51,290 inhabitants of which almost 100% is rural. The population density in Orhei region, according to the national Bureau of Statistics is 110 pers/km2 (111,4 per country) which is one of the highest in the country after the largest cities Chisinau and Balti. The major part of population, which is rural, is involved in agricultural activities, particularly cattle-breeding and husbandry which serve as the main source of income and livelihoods. This result in the serious pressure on the natural resources of the area, pasture degradation as a result of over-grazing, significant reduction of carbon sequestration and storage potential of grassland ecosystems and creating pressure for natural forest habitats. The territory is covered by 18,551.4 ha of forests managed by Moldsilva Forestry Agency and 1,392 ha of unmanaged community forests. The future National Park Orhei area covers the biggest consolidated forest plot in the center-east of the country consisting mainly from nature type of forests (mostly oak, durmast and other hardwood type of wood). The rest of the area consists of land used for agriculture purposes, from which 5,890.92 ha are pasture lands. In the result of interaction of different ecosystems in the area, the floristic and faunistic diversity of the Orhei National Park is high: based on the “Scientific argumentation for NP Orhei establishment” Academy of Science, Institute of Botany, the territory is home for more than 700 species of flora from which 52 are rare and endangered and 29 species are included in the Red book of Republic of Moldova and 1 in the annex of Bern Convention and one endemic specie – Thymul moldavicus Klok et Schost; and 11 species of amphibians, 10 species of reptiles, 109 of birds and 41 species of mammals, most of them included in the Red book of Moldova. More than 2/3 of the territory of the National Park Orhei is a hilly area with different altitudes from 50 to 250 meters and ravines up to 300-350 meters. These differences in altitudes, along with other human activities, created in the past conditions for increased soil erosion, worsening over time. The National Park Orhei territory is highly affected by deep soil erosion (ravines and frequent landslides) in the eastern and western part of the park territory (approx. 1,200 ha), and
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surface soil erosion in the central part1. Further, the territory has a high variety of soft rocks, which are friable and very vulnerable to erosion processes under the influence of climatic and external anthropogenic factors. In order to stabilize the lands on this territory and reducing the carbon emission 189 ha of community degraded lands from the park area are proposed to be afforested during the period 2013-2016 according to the Government Programme for conservation and increase the soil fertility for 2011 – 2020. Other main driver of land degradation is over-grazing by domestic livestock. This resulted in a significant reduction of carbon sequestration and storage potential of grassland ecosystems. The grazing capacity of existing pastures is three to four times lower than the number of 14 thousand head of existing livestock in the region (according to National Bureau of Statistics). Not only are native species of grass over-grazed, often their habitual paths harden the earth and prevent natural regeneration. The over-grazing and other factors have resulted in changes in basic species composition (Stipa, Festuca, Bothriochloa, Poa sp.), with declines in populations of valuable fodder plants and increases in weeds and poisonous species (such as crowfoot, thistle, creeping thistle, as well as Euphorbia sequieriana, and Astragalus spp.). The threatened species of vertebrate fauna on degraded lands (and pastures) include: Sicista subtilis, Cricetus cricetus, Mustela eversmanni, Aquila rapax, Circus cyaneus, Circus macrourus, Circus pygargus, Otis tarda, Tetrax tetrax, Vipera ursine, Elaphe quatuorlineata. In this regard project will support the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry to implement the activities related to management of pastures for reducing the impact of droughts on the livestock sector stipulated into the Action Plan for Drought Mitigation Measures in the Agri-Food Sector (2012 -2015). Lack of sufficient forage from pasture lands increases pressure on forests and other natural landscapes. This results in biodiversity loss, loss of forest area and further fragmentation, which provides stressors to native animal and plant populations living there. With decreasing soil fertility, the majority of flora species still present will disappear and fauna diversity will continue to diminish, especially as a result of decreasing nutritional capacity of the lands, and lack of sites for reproduction and refuge. The carbon accumulation in soil and vegetation will continue to decline in pastures and degraded lands in the result of climate change factors and unsustainable human activities if no active interventions and long term planning measures to be undertaken. There is a strong need for demonstration of improved pasture management under pending climate threats, for applying state-of-the art range ecology and rangeland management techniques that reduce emissions of carbon, incentives for farmers for controlling animal numbers for better soil conditions and biodiversity.
Pic. 1. Location of the project area: Orhei National Park
1 Academy of Science, Institute of Botany “Scientific argumentation for NP Orhei establishment”; Acad. A. Ursu “Pedogeographic
rayoning of the country and soil utilization”; Acad. A. Ursu, I. Crupenicov “Soil degradation and desertification”).
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1.2 Project Objectives and Scope The main project's objective is to demonstrate a natural resource management model in the pastures and forests of Moldova which increases ecosystems’ capacity to sequester carbon under pending climate warning risks, while at the same time retain biodiversity and economic values. Main objectives are: • To develop innovative pasture and community forests management system on the whole territory of the park,
including rehabilitation of 500 ha of pastures and afforesting 150 ha of eroded and nonproductive lands. • To develop a robust pasture and forest carbon monitoring system in order to avert further deterioration of
natural resources (biodiversity, land, forest), sequestrate the carbon and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases.
• To increase level of understanding at local, regional and national level about sustainable grassland, forest management and carbon benefits.
2. PROGRESS MADE DURING THE INCEPTION PHASE 2.1 Organizational structure and project implementation unit set up The Project Management Unit was established in July 2013. Since start-up of the project, staff has been hired consisting of: a Project Manager, and Project Assistant (See Annex I). The 4-year project work plan and annual project budgets were developed. 2.2 Cooperation with stakeholders Key stakeholders and project partners were identified in the project document and these were reviewed, confirmed and expanded by the Project team. Consultative meetings with representatives of the local public authorities, Ministry of Environment, Moldsilva Agency (both central and local) were organized in July-August to define and confirm areas of cooperation during implementation of the project activities. A meeting with Cadastre office at regional level was organized and discussed way of collaboration in pilot plots selection both for afforestation and pasture restoration activities. In the result, joint solicitation letters were sent to all majorilties with a request to provide basic proposals for land allocation. Proposals for degraded lands for afforestation and pasture lands for restoration from LPA's were collected by the team and evaluated by a specialized team comprising representatives from MoEnv, Moldsilva, Rayonal Cadaster, Project team, local mayors and cadaster specialists. The main aim was to select the most suitable degraded lands for afforestation where local species can be planted selected (as a condition stipulated in ProDoc). As the project document was signed quite late (end of July 2013) and because of a vacation period during July-August, an inception workshop was conducted on 11 September 2013 which assembled a broad group of stakeholders together in order to reaffirm their interest and commitment to the project objectives (See Annex III). This meeting helped to clarify the roles and interests of these stakeholders such as for instance Moldsilva Agency, Local public authorities from village and district levels and communities in general. The workshop was broadcasted through national TV channel: "Moldova 1". Also the information regarding the workshop was disseminated by the main stakeholders and several national news agencies:
- http://www.undp.org/content/moldova/en/home/operations/projects/environment_and_energy/clima-east--ecosystem-based-adaptation-and-mitigation-of-climate.html
- http://trm.md/ro/regional/parcul-national-orhei-150-hectare-de-terenuri-erodate-vor-fi-impadurite - http://www.moldsilva.gov.md/libview.php?l=ro&idc=270&id=558&t=/Comunicare/Evenimente/In-Parcului-
National-Orhei-vor-fi-impadurite-150-ha-de-terenuri-erodate - http://politik.md/?view=articlefull&viewarticle=20663 - http://www.aicitv.md/index.php/ro/arhiva-video-orhei/arhiva-video-orhei-2013 - http://social.moldova.org/news/150-ha-de-terenuri-erodate-din-parcul-naional-orhei-vor-fi-impadurite-238879-
rom.html - http://www.timpul.md/articol/in-parcului-naional-orhei-vor-fi-impadurite-150-ha-de-terenuri-erodate-
48255.html?action=print - http://www.noi.md/md/news_id/27987 - http://www.ziarelive.ro/stiri/in-parcului-national-orhei-vor-fi-impadurite-150-ha-de-terenuri-erodate.html
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- http://www.moldovenii.md/md/news/view/section/15/id/9203 - http://totul.md/ro/newsitem/377923.html - http://www.actual.md/content/%C3%AEn-parcului-na%C5%A3ional-orhei-vor-fi-%C3%AEmp%C4%83durite-
150-ha-de-terenuri-erodate
All participants of the workshop confirmed the timeliness and importance of this project in Moldova, as the issue is essential and current community forest and pasture management practise are unsustainable. Recommendations for changing the project work plan according to the vegetation period were provided. Many also stressed the need for replication of the project experiences to other areas in Moldova because this is one of the first projects dealing with pasture restoration taking into account both biodiversity and climate change approach in Moldova and thus the best practices should be integrated on a national level practice and legislation. 2.3. Establishment of the Project Management Team
The project applies UNDP’s national execution modality in accordance with UNDP rules and regulations. The Ministry of Environment is the government institution responsible for the implementation of the project and acts as the Executing Agency (EA). UNDP is the Implementing Agency (IA) for the project. The Project is implemented in line with UNDP rules and procedures. The UNDP provides the support needed for project implementation through the Administrative and Finance Units. A Project Management Team (PMT), is managed as part of a larger programme focussing on biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation and mitigation. It is staffed with a Project Manager and part time Financial/ Administrative Assistant, which assist the Ministry of Environment as well as other responsible institutions in the implementation of the project at the national level. The PMT ensures results-based project management and successful implementation of the project, close monitoring and evaluation of project progress, observance of procedures, transparency and efficient use of funds, quality of works, and involvement of local and national stakeholders and beneficiary communities in the decision-making processes. The Project Manager (PM) is responsible for day-to-day operation and implementation of project activities. The PM reports to the Project Board and acts under overall guidance and supervision of the UNDP’s Team Leader of Energy and Environment Portfolio. The PM is responsible for project coordination and implementation, consolidation of work plans and project papers, preparation of quarterly progress reports, reporting to the project supervisory bodies, and supervising the work of the project experts and staff. The PM also coordinates project activities with relevant Government institutions. He is supported by an Project Assistant, who is responsible for the administration and finances of the project. Project implementation is also supported by regional coordinator and the UNDP Bratislava, which provides input and facilitates coordination of this project with other pilot projects under the Clima-East umbrella. The Job descriptions for these positions are presented in Annex I. 2.4. Establishment of the Project Board The Project Board (PB) was established in the inception phase based on the nominations from the main stakeholders. The main role of the PB is to monitor the project progress, to guide its implementation and to support the project in achieving its listed outputs and outcomes. The project Board was established by a Ministerial Order and have 10 members, made up of representatives of the following institutions: Ministry of Environment (Senior Executive and chairing the PB) – 2 members, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry; Agency “Moldsilva”; Agency for Land Relations and Cadastre; UNDP Moldova; EU Delegation in Moldova; local NGO; Mayors Association from Orhei rayon; and Rayonal Council Orhei. The Project Board will meet regularly, on a quarterly basis or as required. The PB will provide strategic direction for the project management. The PB will review and approve annual work plan (AWP), and may review and approve project quarterly plans when required and authorizes any major deviation from these agreed quarterly plans.
Project Assurance is the responsibility of each Project Board member, however the role can be delegated. The Project Assurance role supports the Project Board by carrying out objective and independent project oversight and monitoring functions. This role ensures appropriate project management milestones are managed and completed. On behalf of UNDP, the function is delegated to a UNDP Portfolio Manager.
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The first meeting conducted on October 8, 2013, where the members agreed on the ToRs for the Board (See Annex II) and discussed the progress made by the Project since the launch of inception phase in July (See Annex IV); the detailed work plan for 2013 was also presented and agreed by the Board. The PB in the first meeting agreed the selected plots for afforestation. Also the PB agreed on Budget revision taking into account that project started later than it was planned, and some of the activities could not be performed as they are vegetation period dependable (e.g. afforestation of degraded lands or pasture inventory). 2.5 Result Oriented Monitoring mission During the inception phase a ROM mission was carried out in the period of 09- 13 September 2013. The project was assessed based on the following criteria:
• Relevance and quality of design • Efficiency of Implementation to date • Effectiveness to date • Impact prospects • Potential sustainability
The main findings of the evaluation and key recommendations are provided in Annex VI of the report. In the result of the ROM recommendations the project indicators were changed in order to meet the characteristics of SMART indicators (Annex VII). 2.6 Selection of the pilot plots in the project area According to the Project document, the project is supporting restoration activities on degraded lands and degraded pastures. The restoration activities on degraded lands should be done through afforestation with local native species (oak, ash, linden, field maple, elm, willow, cherry) or in composition with biggest share of native species mentioned above and less introduced species like acacia. This condition was quite challenging because soil on the most of the proposed plots was highly degraded or not suitable for native species could be planted only with introduced species like acacia or different species of bushes. In this regard, the project in collaboration with Orhei district cadastre office requested from LPA's from Orhei district proposals for degraded lands suitable for afforestation and pasture lands for restoration. Separate requests were sent to LPA's from Calarasi, Criuleni and Straseni districts. Information from LPA's was collected during August and September. An evaluation team comprising representatives from Ministry of Environment, Moldsilva Agency, District Cadastre office, Project team, local mayors and cadastre specialists were created. The team visited 19 sites proposed by LPA's and endorsed for approval by the Project Board 11 of such totalling 142 ha on which native species can be planted. The sites were ultimately approved by the project board and local community councils in each selected community. The rest of 8 hectares will be additionally assessed at the beginning of 2014 year. For each of the plot a Planting project was developed (current situation description, GIS soil maps, pedological maps based on pedological analysis and planting scheme, incl. species selection) by Forest research and management institute (according to the Forest code (1996) and Law on afforestation of degraded lands nr. 1041 from 15.06.2000). The Planting project will support soil stabilization on the degraded lands and in the future will create
Project Manager
Project Board Senior Beneficiaries (MoEnv,
Moldsilva, MoAFI, R/LPAs, NGOs, Cadastre)
Executive Ministry of Environment
Senior Supplier UNDP, EU
Project Assurance Responsible UNDP Programme Officer
Project Organization Structure
Technical Experts
Project Assistant
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suitable conditions for reacher biodiversity and also will offer firewood and other benefits to local communities..The soil preparation activities were completed on 40 ha of the total 142 ha consisting of soil preparation, being limited by the weather condition (rain, freeze and snow). On the rest of the plots, soil preparation works will be held in spring 2014. Proper planting will be done in spring and autumn 2014, depending on the weather condition, to ensure the saplings survival and better results. During the following years guarding and maintenance and completion works will be carried out. 2.7 Forest and pasture management planning A pasture management planning for 5,890.92 ha started in 2013 which will result in a detailed pasture management plans for next decade for all the communities from the park. The activity initiated with a comprehensive pasture inventory, analysis of the existing scientific and technical data, and consultation with pasture owners. Along with biodiversity and carbon sequestration benefits, the pasture management plans will help to increase the income of locals from cattle breeding and should ensure food security. The outline of the pasture management plan will be presented to the key stakeholders at the beginning of 2014 year. Forest management planning started in the inception phase with the assessment of all the existing materials on the type of management and general state of the community forests prior to the field work. Activity finalized with organization of the first Forest Management Planning Conference, where the scope and objective of the forest management planning exercise was presented to the beneficiaries (local public authorities). Forest management plans which are under development will contribute to sustainable management of the community forests and prevention of illegal logging. 2.8 Carbon monitoring A computer based system in Microsoft Acces for monitoring of the carbon dividends and ecological integrity of the ecosystem in Orhei National Park was developed, which will facilitate the carbon stock measurements, forest and pasture monitoring on restored areas. The baseline of carbon potential was established based on the results of a survey of the degraded lands before afforestation (soil carbon monitoring), established methodology and indicators. The baseline for the pasture lands will be measured once all the plots will be selected. This activity is on-going one and will be performed during the whole project life. The systematic collection of relevant climate-related data based on developed monitoring system will further help to identify how communities of grassland and forest species will be affected by climate change i.e., what physical and biological changes could take place as a result of changes in temperature, precipitation and aggravation of situation with extreme climate events. This observation and forecasting system will provide the foundation for planning appropriate response measures and integrating them into ongoing pasture and forest management efforts. 3. CONCLUSIONS OF THE INCEPTION PHASE The project inception phase showed that Clima East project, which envisages activities for restoration of degraded lands and improvement of pastures is highly important for the Orhei district and mainly for the Orhei National Park region. The lesson learned is that the inclusion of representatives from local public authorities, communities, together with specialists in forestry and land cadastre issues in the process of selection of degraded lands for afforestation, selection of species for afforestation, raised the ownership and trust among project partners. Communities lack a proper understanding of how climate change and biodiversity degradation affect their livelihoods, therefore the project will invest a lot of effort in removing this barrier which might affect the project outcomes. In addition, the existing practices in communities in the areas of pasture and forest management will be considered in the design of the future project activities identifying innovative ways for their improvement. Also, some changes were performed in project workplan and ProDoc, as follows:
1. Changes were performed in the project work plan in the result of inception workshop recommendations approved by the Project board.
2. Project result and resource framework was changed according to the ROM recommendation and should be approved by the project board.
3. Project risks and response actions were updated, taking into account ROM recommendations. 4. As the visibility activities is very important during project implementation, changes in the project work plan
and budget should be performed in order to implement activities related to project implementation starting from the second year of project implementation.
4. RECOMMENDATIONS ON KEY ACTIVITIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN DURING 1st YEAR OF IMPLEMENTATION
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Reffering to the conclusions given above as well as main objectives of the project the year 1 project workplan should include following activities:
1. Initiate a comprehensive pasture inventory based on the field scientific study. As the vegetation period is close to end the the soil, vegetation, water resources conditions for the 500 ha out of 5890 ha that should be restored by the project will be assessed. The pastures productivity and production quality, hay productivity, pasture cattle support, current pasture carbon storage, emission reduction and sequestration potential will be established during 2014 year in the framework of full inventory process.
2. Inventory of 1/2 of community forests (662.52 ha) in the field with examination of existing vegetation and
plots delimitation in the field as part of the community forests with management plans developed.
As part of the field work, delimitation of boundaries, parcels and sub parcels of the selected forestlands by applying special signs in accordance with the existing regulations developed and approved by the Government should be done. A description for every parcel, sub parcel and forest unit (UA) that includes the type of vegetation, type of habitat, soil, road network, other forest and mapping parameters should be done.
3. Initiate the selection of 500 ha of pasture lands for restoration Assessment of pasture lands proposed for restoration should be performed based on data provided by Local Public Authorities and Cadastre. The criteria for selection of the pasture lands for restoration should be developed and approved by the project board at the beginning of 2014. Consultations need to be initiated with LPAs in order to identify the most suitable pasture plots for restoration in accordance with approved criteria. A rapid pasture inventory has to be performed in order to identify the vegetation type, condition and needed intervention for each of the proposed plot.
4. Initiate the process of afforestation of 150 ha of degraded lands. The degraded lands proposed for afforestation should be identified based on consultation with Local Public Authorities and Cadastre. All the proposed plots has to be inventoried in the field and mapped. For each plot planting scheme should be designed based on pedological analysis and species selected in order to acheve better results. Perform soil preparation for planting (if the weather conditions will allow). The proper plantind has to be performed during 2014 year.
5. A robust pasture and forest monitoring system in place A computer based system (Excel or Access) for monitoring of the carbon dividends and ecological integrity of the ecosystem will be developed, and the soil carbon monitoring on the degraded lands proposed for afforestation will be performed. The above-ground tree vegetation, carbon stocks of dead wood, litter biomass, biodiversity monitoring on afforestated plots, and soil carbon, biomass of herbaceous vegetation, biodiversity on pasture lands will be monitored during the second and last year of project implementation.
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5. RISK MANAGEMENT TABLE 1: PROJECT RISK LOG
Project Title: Clima-East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities
# Description Type Impact & Probability
Counter measures / Management response
1 Total Area of degraded lands proposed by LPA’s suitable for afforestation with native species can be lower than expected.
Operational Moderate The project identified in the inception phase 142 ha of degraded lands for afforestation using native species. On most of the proposed territories the land degradation is higher and do not allow planting of native species, but only acacia. The project will continue identification of suitable territories for native species planting at the beginning of 2014, but as an alternative option allowing raise of share of non-native species should be taken into account. Specific measures will be raised and agreed by PB.
2 The total Area of degraded pastures proposed by LPA’s for restoration is not enough to organize the competition for grants allocation.
Operational High Identification of additional measures to compensate the lack of territory (e.g. broadening the scope of rehabilitation activities on other territories/training in sustainable land use practices.) Specific measures will be raised and agreed by PB.
3 Natural and human made disasters can affect the result of restoration activities.
Environment Moderate Field inventory will assess the best appropriate approach for rehabilitation efforts. Nonetheless, exists the risk that unfavourable weather conditions and other factors, incl. human, can negatively influence on the pasture and afforestation rehabilitation results. As for human factors, the project team will work closely with the LPA’s in order to minimize use of restored pastures in winter time and to ensure proper pasture maintenance and guarding. As for afforested degraded lands, the company has an obligation to ensure the overall survival percentage of the plantings by the end of the project at 78% according to the approved forestry technical norms. Also, the afforested plots will be guarded by the contractor and LPA’s. Nonetheless proper organization of rehabilitation works based on monitoring activities and scientific practices and timely intervention in case of climate change risks or hazards should ensure long-term capacity to adapt to change.
4 Reluctance of farmers to change pastures for grazing and to enforce grazing management plans
Organizational High Project will propose measures to encourage use of alternative pastures by farmers. Advantages of past local pasture practices will be taken into account, when planning the activities for pasture restoration and developing pasture management plans. Targeted awareness raising and training as needed.
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5 Limited success on regeneration of the pastures ecosystem in the Orhei NP
Environmental Moderate Pasture rehabilitation will be conducted in a manner to minimize risks of further degradation from climate risks thus maximizing success of regeneration of flora. Monitoring indicator programme established and maintained to identify trends and actions in the management plan for improving success rate of reintroduction and rehabilitation activities.
6 Lack of capacities of the local communities to enforce pasture and forest management plans.
Organizational Moderate There are no dedicated efforts made in the mayoralties for pasture and community forests management. In the process of pasture management planning, the project will collaborate closely with the local communities to identify problems, opportunities for proper pasture management and will propose costs and benefits for each of the intervention. As for community forests, after the forest management planning, the benefit from wood harvesting will be identified, which will cover most probably the costs of forest management. Also the capacity building activities performed by the project will promote better understanding among pasture and other users the importance of enforcement of pasture and forest management plans in the “era” of climate change.
7 Lack of commitment from Local Public Authorities (LPAs) and the state to invest fees paid by pasture users in order to manage communal pastureland.
Financial Moderate Regular discussions, through round tables, community meetings etc. will take place with LPA’s and pasture users for the increased ownership and joint identification of solutions for catalyzing pasture fees for pasture sustainable management. Compensatory schemes, developed in the framework of Clima East Policy project will also be considered and discussed at the local level.
8 Rising the prices for goods and services and fluctuations in exchange rate could affect the cost of afforestation and pasture restoration
Financial Moderate Promotion of the procurement methods which ensure best-value for money (e.g. negotiation for minimizing the prices) or identification of alternative solutions for restoration works.
9 Changing priorities/re-shuffle of local and national counterparts
Political Moderate Parliament election will take place in autumn 2014 and local elections will take place in summer 2015, and both could affect the project implementation. Close monitoring of the situation; Rely on the project board and permanent staff of the institutions.
Isssues
# Description Type Impact & Probability
Counter measures / Management response
1 Limited interaction between Clima East Policy project and Clima East Pilot project
Operational Moderate Establish a coordination mechanism between the two projects with quarterly exchange of information between the PMT, Pilot Project Regional Coordinator and the Policy project Regional and Project coordinator. This will help to promote Pilot Policy recommendations on policy relating to the use of pastures and grazing revenues as and when these arise. Use expert facility platform as a way of collaboration between policy and pilot projects.
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6. RELEVANT ON-GOING PROJECTS Project Donor
(Implementer) Duration Budget Project Description / Issues addressed
Improving coverage and management effectiveness of the protected area system in Moldova
GEF/UNDP (UNDP) 2009-2013 995,000 USD The project aims to build the capacity of protected area institutions in Moldova to more effectively establish and administer a representative system of protected areas in Moldova. It will also pilot the establishment of a national park, the first in Moldova, in the Orhei district as a mechanism to rationalize and expand existing, but spatially and institutionally fragmented, protected areas.
Moldova Community Forestry Development Project
Borrower, Carbon Fund, PHRD Grant (WB/State forestry agency Moldsilva)
2006-2035 10,000,000 USD
The objective is to restore degraded land through forestation to increase economic and environmental benefit to rural communities. In addition to community benefits, the project's forestation activities would support, through restored productivity and conservation of soil, the global objectives of carbon sequestration and reduction of atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations.
Japanese Grant TF093088
Japan Policy for Human Resources Development (PHRD) Fund (State forestry agency Moldsilva)
2005-2007 975.900 USD The project will have positive influence on community forests and pastures, contributing substantially to the improvement of their condition (management), achieving considerable ecological and economic benefits for local population. An area of 1453 ha, including 1162 ha will be covered with forest management planning and on 291 ha reconstruction (or assisted natural regeneration) will be carried out in community forests destroyed previously by illegal logging.
Moldova: Soil Conservation WB- Prototype Carbon Fund (Moldsilva)
2002-2022 2,478,000 USD
Moldova Soil Conservation project is reforesting 19,768 ha of bad lands in the process of heavy erosion and degraded unproductive pasturelands, by means of afforestation with tree and shrub species adapted to these adverse site conditions, providing urgently needed fuel wood and timber to rural people.
Sustainable tourism development in the Orhei National Park area
National Fund for Regional Development (Agency for Regional Development)
2013-2014 12,349,572 MDL (1,010,603 USD)
The main objective of the project is to increase the investment attractiveness and visibility of tourism values in National Park Orhei. Specific objectives: creation, improvement and diversification of tourism infrastructure and services in National Park Orhei, building, administrative capacity of the park, training and human resources for intercommunity cooperation activities by promoting diversification of the regional economy and tourism. Developing touristic infrastructure (visitor centers, camping’s, craft markets) at a distance of up to one hour from the capital Chisinau.
The ENPI FLEG Program “Improving Forest Law Enforcement and Governance in the European Neighbourhood Policy East Countries and Russia”
European Union (World Bank IUCN, WWF,)
2009-2012 600,000 EUR The ENPI FLEG Program supports governments, civil society, and the private sector in participating countries in the development of sound and sustainable forest management practices, including reducing the incidence of illegal forestry activities. Participating countries include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia and Ukraine. This program is funded by the European Union with a contribution from the Austrian Development Cooperation.
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National Biodiversity Planning to Support the Implementation of the CBD 2011-2020 Strategic Plan in Moldova
GEF/ National Environment fund (UNDP through Biodiversity Office)
2012-2013 220,000 USD
This project is part of the second generation of Biodiversity Enabling Activities (BD EA) under the GEF. Republic of Moldova has been Party to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) since October 1995. The project addresses the country’s need to continue to fulfill its obligations under the CBD, with particular focus on the Convention’s Article 6 and the CBD COP Decision X/2. Above all, the project is a significant contribution to Moldova’s efforts towards implementing the CBD Strategic Plan 2011-2020 at the national level.
Agriculture Competitiveness Project
GEF (WB)
2012-2017 4,435,500 USD
The Project Development Objective is to enhance the competitiveness of the country’s agro-food sector by supporting the modernization of the food safety management system; facilitating market access for farmers; and mainstreaming agro-environmental and sustainable land management practices.
Moldova Energy and Biomass Project
European Commission and UNDP (UNDP Moldova)
2011 – 2014 14,560,000 EUR
The Project aims to contribute to a more secure, competitive and sustainable energy production in the Republic of Moldova through targeted support to renewable energy in form of biomass from agricultural wastes. The project will increase the use of renewable energy sources, specifically for heating public buildings and individual households in rural areas. It lays the basis for the establishment of functional markets for biomass technologies which will ensure sustainability of the project intervention beyond its lifetime.
Development of ecological agriculture in Moldova
International Development Cooperation of the Czech Republic (People in Need)
2011 - 2013 7,500,000 CZK
The project is focused on the support of organic agriculture in Moldova through building the capacity of farmers, their associations and service providers. In addition access of farmers to investments will be increased and demand for organic products in Moldova stimulated. Within the project awareness of the public and state officials will be raised about the benefits of organic agriculture.
Increasing Competitive Strength and Efficiency of Moldovan Small and Medium-Scale Farmers through their Orientation to High Value Crops Growing at Selected Target Groups in Districts of Cahul, Anenii noi, Ungheni
International Development Cooperation of the Czech Republic (Czech University of Life Sciences Prague)
2011 - 2013 1,800,000 CZK
The project envisages establishment of six production-marketing cooperative groups with the minimum total number of 60 farmers based on the above-mentioned groups of vegetable and fruit small- and medium-scale growers. Vegetable and fruit growers will be trained in growing technologies, strategic plans of commercial growing will be set up for them, they will be supported with deliveries of horticulture mini-machinery, green houses, irrigation equipment and other agricultural inputs; further the project will work out market analyses, organize training in marketing and farm management provide marketing strategies and business plans for each of groups.
Transition to High Value Agriculture project (Millennium Challenge Compact programme in Moldova)
Millennium Challenge Corporation (Millennium Challenge Account Moldova)
2010–2015 262,000,000 USD
It aims at increasing incomes in the rural areas by encouraging high value agriculture and catalyzing investments into high value production. It is also estimated to make benefits to about 29 000 farmers or over 112 thousand individuals (farmers, owners of farmlands, agricultural enterprises and their shareholders, employees of agricultural enterprises operating in the areas covered by the rehabilitated centralized irrigation systems, the producers who grow or intend to grow high value products).
7. WORK PLAN AND BUDGET FOR 2013 (Whole project workplan is presented in Annex V)
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8.
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ANNEXES
ANNEX I. TERMS OF REFERENCES (JOB DESCRIPTION) OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM
1. Project Manager
I. Position Information Job Title: Position Level: Project Title: Supervisor: Supervision or Coordination: Duration of employment: Payment Schedule:
Project Manager Service Band 4, quartile 2 (SB 4.2) Improving coverage and management effectiveness of the Protected Area System in Moldova Clima-East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities. Portfolio Manager Supervision (Project Assistant) and coordination (experts/contractors) July 2013 – December 2013 (with possibility of extension) monthly
II. Background ”Improving coverage and management effectiveness of the Protected Area System in Moldova” Project The protected area system (PAS) of Moldova is not uniformly distributed in the landscape and there are substantial gaps, particularly in terms of steppe habitats, that need to be addressed to ensure the adequate representation of the main types of ecosystems. Protected areas are also highly fragmented in the landscape and are not achieving the conservation objectives for landscape-scale ecological processes. The 4 years project which started its implementation in June 2009 therefore aims to improve the representativity and coverage of the protected area system and to build the capacity of protected area institutions in Moldova to more effectively establish and administer a representative system of protected areas (PAs) in Moldova. It will seek to achieve this by:
(i) reviewing, revising and reforming the conservation management tenure of the current PAs; (ii) developing a strategic and operational decision-support tool to support the ongoing consolidation
and expansion of the national PAS; (iii) piloting the establishment of a national park, the first in Moldova, in the Orhei district as a
mechanism to rationalize and expand existing, but spatially and institutionally fragmented, PAs; (iv) reforming and restructuring the governance of, and institutional arrangements for, PAs; (v) developing national norms and standards, operational guidelines and financing mechanisms for the
PAS; (vi) developing protected area planning and management competence and skills of professional and
technical staff in the protected area institutions; (vii) designing a national strategic framework for coordinating the implementation of conservation
education and awareness programmes; and (viii) implementation of a focused outreach program in and around Orhei to support the piloted
establishment of the National Park in the Orhei district. Opportunities to link the protected areas with the country’s socioeconomic development priorities will, wherever possible, be developed to strengthen the long-term political sustainability of the institutions responsible for the PAS.
The project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) is nationally executed (NEX). The Ministry of Environment (MEN) is the government institution responsible for the implementation of the project and will act as the Executing Agency (EA). UNDP is the Implementing Agency (IA) for the project. “Clima-East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local
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communities” Project The 4 year project aim is to demonstrate a natural resource management model in the pastures and forests of Moldova which increases ecosystems’ capacity to sequester carbon under pending climate risks, while at the same time retaining biodiversity and economic values. The project targets the pastures and forest degraded lands located in the Orhei National Park area (33,792.09 ha) and its buffer zone. The project will develop innovative pasture and community forest management systems on the whole territory of the park, including rehabilitation of 500 ha of pastures and afforestation of 150 ha of eroded and non-productive lands. The project will help avert further deterioration of natural resources (biodiversity, land, forest), sequestrate the carbon and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, improve local pasture and forestry resources, promote better understanding of problems related to climate change impacts and contribute to local/regional sustainable development. The project activity is expected to enhance the GHG removals by preventing soil erosion, which is estimated to account for carbon storage in soil of 0.9 tC/ha/yr, accumulation of 0.45 t C/ha/yr of carbon in pasture vegetation and 9.12 t C/ha/yr accumulation in forest vegetation with continuous increase. The project funded by the European Commission (EU) is nationally executed (NEX). The Ministry of Environment (MEN) is the government institution responsible for the implementation of the project and will act as the Executing Agency (EA). UNDP is the Implementing Agency (IA) for the project.
III. Organizational Context Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Environment and Energy Portfolio Manager, the incumbent provides effective and efficient management of the projects, together forming the “Biodiversity Conservation Programme”, through a range of actions contributing to the design, planning, management and monitoring of project activities. The Project Manager applies and promotes the principles of results-based management (RBM), as well as a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations. He/she is responsible and accountable to the Project Boards for the project results. The Project Manager works in close collaboration with the Programme, Operations, Communications and other project teams in the Country Office (CO) for effective achievement of results, anticipating and contributing to resolving complex programme/project-related issues and information delivery. The incumbent is expected to exercise full compliance with UNDP programming, financial, procurement and administrative rules, regulations, policies and strategies, as well as implementation of the effective internal control systems.
IV. Functions / Key Results Expected The Project Manager in close cooperation with the National Project Coordinator, the Ministry of Environment and relevant subordinated institutions and stakeholders and a team of national and international short-term project experts will ensure the provision of development services and products (commensurate with the scope of the Projects) of the highest quality and standards to national counterparts and clients through applying Human Rights Based and Gender Equality Approaches. More specifically:
a) Ensure the timely and efficient delivery of Projects outputs and products leading to the achievement of expected results;
b) Within the strategic framework concerted with the national counterparts, prepare work-plans reflecting the scope of activities, timing, sequencing, cost and other inputs for the implementation of the Projects activities;
c) Be responsible for the implementation of the Project work plan according to indicators for achieving planned results, as well as for the overall management of the Projects in accordance to prevailing UNDP, EU and GEF rules, regulations and procedures;
d) Liaise with the national counterparts, donors and the UNDP office to ensure that Project results are achieved and Projects resources are managed efficiently and effectively;
e) Present work-plans, periodic narrative progress reports and expenditures status reports to the Project Board and UNDP Country Office, EU and GEF as required;
f) Ensure the effective management of human resources pertaining to the Project, including both staff, consultants and short-term experts; conduct periodic performance appraisals; build, lead and motivate a solid team of professionals; develop and validate terms of reference for international
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and national consultants; g) Manage efficiently the financial resources of the Projects, including budgeting and budget
revisions, as well as expenditure tracking and reporting; h) Continuously record and maintain relevant Project activities, issues, risks, etc in the UNDP Atlas
Project Management Module (software platform); i) Lead and coordinate the organization of meetings, workshops, conferences, trainings, study tours
and related activities relevant to the implementation of the Project; j) Identify key performance indicators as well as develop and maintain a monitoring system to
ensure effective information sharing, provision of feedback and elaboration of top quality progress reports;
k) Ensure high quality information and visibility of the Projects activities to the mass media and stakeholders;
l) Perform any other duties connected directly with the implementation of the Projects as required; m) Maintain close coordination and collaborative working relationships with projects partners, ensure
synergies, avoid overlaps in projects implementation, collaborate with other donors working in the same area, provide information relevant to the projects.
n) Support the effective functioning of the Project Board Maintain and animate effective dialogue and coordination with National Coordinator, partners and among stakeholders.
o) Advise all project counterparts on applicable administrative procedures (UNDP/EU/GEF) and ensure their proper implementation.
p) Ensure timely realization of project evaluations and monitoring activities as laid down in the Project Document following established UNDP, EU and GEF procedures in close collaboration with national and international partners
q) Ensure synergies between the projects under her/his responsibility and contribute to further advancement of the “Biodiversity Conservation Programme”
Key Results: The key results have a direct impact on the overall successful achievement of the UNDP CO Environment and Energy programme. Accurate analysis and presentation of information enhances UNDP’s position as a strong development partner. The information provided facilitates decision-making of the Project Board, the Beneficiary and UNDP management.
V. Competencies
Corporate Competencies:
Demonstrates commitment to UNDP’s mission, vision and values. Exerts strict adherence to corporate rules, regulations and procedures. Familiarity with the internal control
framework and results-based management tools is a must. Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability Ensures that programmes and projects are consistent with UN/UNDP values Treats peers fairly by maintaining consistent values inspiring trust and confidence through personal
credibility Accepts responsibility and accountability for the quality of the outcome of his/her decisions 1.
Functional Competencies:
Knowledge Management and Learning
Shares knowledge and experience Focuses on tasks/activities which have a strategic impact on programme and capacity development activities Promotes a supportive environment to enhance partnerships, leverages resources and build support for
UNDP’s strategic initiatives Collaborates with regional, national and local partners to create and apply knowledge and concepts that will
help partners achieve UNDP’s development objectives within the country and regional context Actively works towards continuing personal learning, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills
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Job Knowledge/Technical Expertise / In-depth knowledge of the Subject-matter Understands more advanced aspects of primary area of specialization as well as the fundamental concepts of
related disciplines Serves as internal consultant in the area of expertise and shares knowledge with staff Continues to seek new and improved methods and systems for accomplishing the work of the unit Keeps abreast of new developments in area of professional discipline and job knowledge and seeks to develop
him/herself professionally Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of information technology and applies it in work assignments Development and Operational Effectiveness Ability to perform a variety of specialized tasks related to Results-Based Management, including support to
design, planning and implementation of Programme, managing data, reporting Ability to provide input to business processes, re-engineering, implementation of new system, including new
IT based systems. Ability to engage with various partners and stakeholders at different levels, to establish and maintain contacts
with senior-level officials of the host government and represent UNDP in national and regional fora. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, is required to obtain, evaluate and interpret
factual data and to prepare accurate and complete reports and other documents. Capacity to implement the strategic vision and programmatic goals as laid down in the Project Document; Proven performance in organizing and coordinating major initiatives, events or challenging inter-
organizational activities; Adapts flexibly to changing situations, overcomes obstacles and recovers quickly from set-backs Leadership and Self-Management Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback; Ability to achieve results and meet strict deadlines in an effective manner, maintaining a high quality standard
throughout Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude Tolerates conditions of stress, uncertainty or ambiguity and continues to maintain a positive outlook and to
work productively Demonstrated ability to manage a team and to foster team spirit and synergy
VI. Recruitment Qualifications Education:
Master’s or equivalent Degree in Environmental Management and Protection, Biology, Environmental Economics/Law or related areas. Additional training and certification in project management would be an advantage.
Experience:
• At least five years of progressive working experience in the design,
management and implementation of projects and/or working in a relevant position related to Environmental Management/Protection.
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of policies, legal and institutional framework related to Biodiversity Conservation, Protected Area Management, and ecosystem-based climate change adaptation/mitigation in Moldova is a very strong advantage.
• Previous experience in development assistance or related work for a donor organization, governmental institutions, NGO or private sector / consulting firm is a very strong advantage.
• Extensive experience in managing a multidisciplinary team and strong coordination skills are required.
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web based management systems.
Language Requirements:
Fluency in oral and written English, Romanian and Russian.
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2. Project Assistant
I. Position Information Job Title: Position Level: Project Title: Supervisor: Supervision or Coordination: Duration of employment: Payment Schedule:
Project Assistant Service Band 3, quartile 2 (SB3.2) 1. Strengthening capacities to undertake Environmental Fiscal Reform to meet national and global environmental priorities 2. Improving coverage and management effectiveness of the Protected Area System in Moldova (PAS) 3. Clima East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities Project Manager This position has no supervisory or coordination roles. 01July 2013 – 31 December 2013 monthly
II. Background
The incumbent will provide administrative and financial assistance to three UNDP projects:
1. Strengthening capacities to undertake Environmental Fiscal Reform to meet national and global environmental priorities 2. Improving coverage and management effectiveness of the Protected Area System in Moldova (PAS) 3. Clima East: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities The Medium Size Project “Strengthening capacities to undertake Environmental Fiscal Reform to meet national and global environmental priorities” is financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), with UNDP Moldova as GEF Implementing Agency and the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Moldova as Executing Partner. This project sets out to build capacities for implementing environmental fiscal reforms (EFR) that will produce increased national and global environmental benefits through the adoption of selected charges, subsidies, fees, fines, taxes and other appropriate instruments. The reforms will focus on creating conditions, financial incentives and disincentives, and decreased opportunity costs to undertake actions that deliver environmental outcomes. The expected outcome is that EFR will be adopted as an important element of Moldova's development policy, whereby improved economic, financial and fiscal instruments and their use would strengthen regulatory and other approaches to environmentally sound and sustainable development, with a particular emphasis of meeting obligations under the three Rio Conventions (Climate Change, Biodiversity, Desertification). The project will also contribute to and complement a broader national decentralization reform process, including policy planning at the national level, redesigning of competencies and responsibilities of local and sub-national governments and reforming local government revenue systems. In order to reach Government of Moldova's objective, the project will adopt a focused and comprehensive strategy composed of three main components. Component 1 targets the reform of environmentally harmful subsidies, green subsidies, as well as environmental charges with a special focus on the agricultural and energy sectors, with the following sub-components: 1.1: Policy reform in the area of environmentally harmful subsidies 1.2: Reform of environmental charges and facilitation of eco-technology investments 1.3: Improved regulations and operational management of the National and Local Ecological Funds Component 2 will support capacity development efforts for EFR to build consensus among concerned stakeholders with an extensive programme of training, information dissemination and advocacy, including the following sub-components: 2.1: Capacity building for EFR at central and local levels 2.2: Communication and awareness raising
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2.3: Establishment of a political dialogue, including the formation of a Moldovan EFR Commission Component 3 will facilitate the integration of EFR in local and central planning processes, allowing for a step-wise implementation of the EFR process in local and central budget planning and testing of existing and new EFR instruments, building up experience and confidence. The two sub-components are: 3.1: EFR instruments integrated in the decentralization process 3.2: EFR instruments integrated into governmental budget and Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF)
process The protected area system (PAS) of Moldova is not uniformly distributed in the landscape and there are substantial gaps, particularly in terms of steppe habitats, that need to be addressed to ensure the adequate representation of the main types of ecosystems. Protected areas are also highly fragmented in the landscape and are not achieving the conservation objectives for landscape-scale ecological processes. The 4 years project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and which started its implementation in June 2009, therefore aims to improve the representativity and coverage of the protected area system and to build the capacity of protected area institutions in Moldova to more effectively establish and administer a representative system of protected areas (PAs) in Moldova. It will seek to achieve this by:
(i) reviewing, revising and reforming the conservation management tenure of the current PAs; (ii) developing a strategic and operational decision-support tool to support the ongoing consolidation and
expansion of the national PAS; (iii) piloting the establishment of a national park, the first in Moldova, in the Orhei district as a
mechanism to rationalize and expand existing, but spatially and institutionally fragmented, PAs; (iv) reforming and restructuring the governance of, and institutional arrangements for, PAs; (v) developing national norms and standards, operational guidelines and financing mechanisms for the
PAS; (vi) developing protected area planning and management competence and skills of professional and
technical staff in the protected area institutions; (vii) designing a national strategic framework for coordinating the implementation of conservation
education and awareness programmes; and (viii) implementation of a focused outreach program in and around Orhei to support the piloted
establishment of the National Park in the Orhei district. Opportunities to link the protected areas with the country’s socioeconomic development priorities will, wherever possible, be developed to strengthen the long-term political sustainability of the institutions responsible for the PAS.
The 4 year Clima East project aim is to demonstrate a natural resource management model in the pastures and forests of Moldova which increases ecosystems’ capacity to sequester carbon under pending climate risks, while at the same time retaining biodiversity and economic values. The project targets the pastures and forest degraded lands located in the Orhei National Park area (33,792.09 ha) and its buffer zone. The project will develop innovative pasture and community forest management systems on the whole territory of the park, including rehabilitation of 500 ha of pastures and afforestation of 150 ha of eroded and non-productive lands. The project will help avert further deterioration of natural resources (biodiversity, land, forest), sequestrate the carbon and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, improve local pasture and forestry resources, promote better understanding of problems related to climate change impacts and contribute to local/regional sustainable development. The project activity is expected to enhance the GHG removals by preventing soil erosion, which is estimated to account for carbon storage in soil of 0.9 tC/ha/yr, accumulation of 0.45 t C/ha/yr of carbon in pasture vegetation and 9.12 t C/ha/yr accumulation in forest vegetation with continuous increase. The project funded by the European Commission (EU) is nationally executed (NEX). The Ministry of Environment (MEN) is the government institution responsible for the implementation of the project and will act as the Executing Agency (EA). UNDP is the Implementing Agency (IA) for the project. III. Organizational Context Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Project Manager the incumbent assists in the effective and efficient management of the projects s through a range of actions contributing to the design, planning, management and monitoring of project activities. The Project Assistant applies and promotes the principles of results-based management (RBM), as well as a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations. The Project Assistant works in close collaboration with the Programme, Operations, Communications and other
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project teams in the Country Office (CO) for effective achievement of results, anticipating and contributing to resolving complex programme/project-related issues and information delivery. The incumbent is expected to exercise full compliance with UNDP programming, financial, procurement and administrative rules, regulations, policies and strategies, as well as implementation of the effective internal control systems.
IV. Functions / Key Results Expected Administrative management • Pro-actively contribute to day-to-day project implementation and ensure conformity to expected results and
project work-plans; • Provide support to international consultants in the implementation of their tasks for the achievement of project
results (communication, contracts, agenda, visas, hotel reservations, etc); • Maintain records on all project personnel/national consultants and their respective status (contracts, ToRs, time
and attendance – if appropriate, etc.) in accordance with accepted policies and procedures; • Prepare and issue contracts; • Make pertinent logistical arrangements for the prompt and effective implementation of the programme
activities; • Draft minutes of Project Board and other project related meetings; • Assume overall responsibility for administrative matters of a more general nature, such as registry and
maintenance of project files and records; • Arrange external and internal meetings (including the meetings of the Project Board, Technical level, as well
as other relevant meetings etc.). Financial management • Prepare requests for advance of funds and/or direct payments; • Monitor budget expenditures and maintain a proper record of approved project budgets and their revisions; • Prepare proposals for budget revisions; • Prepare and submit expenditure and programme budget status reports; • Respond to queries from the Parliament and UNDP with respect to financial aspects of the programme, liaise
with UNDP-appointed and external auditors wherever required; • Prepare recurring reports as scheduled and special reports as required for budget preparations and audit; • Advise and assist international advisors and national consultants on all aspects of allowances, travel claims
and other financial matters and calculate payments due for claims and services; • Undertake other financial and administrative tasks on an ad hoc basis. Procurement • In accordance with the Work Plan arrange for procurement of equipment, supplies and services; • Create and mange e-requisitions in ATLAS; • Arrange for equipment maintenance and insurance as required; • Ensure that contractual processes follow the stipulated UNDP procedures; • Physically clear and ensure delivery of equipment and supplies procured for the various programme sites; • Maintain an equipment and spare inventory including verification and transfer when required.
Other duties as assigned.
V. Competencies
Corporate Competencies:
Demonstrates commitment to UNDP’s, EU and GEF’s mission, vision and values. Exerts strict adherence to corporate rules, regulations and procedures. Familiarity with the internal control
framework and results-based management tools is a must. Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
Functional Competencies:
Knowledge Management and Learning
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Shares knowledge and experience Actively works towards continuing personal learning, acts on learning plan and applies newly acquired skills
Development and Operational Effectiveness Proven ability to problem-solve, and think creatively to develop and implement smart business solutions in a
challenging socio-economic environment Ability to establish and maintain contacts with senior-level officials of the host government required. Excellent
interpersonal skills are essential part of the job. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, is required to obtain, evaluate and interpret
factual data and to prepare accurate and complete reports and other documents.
Leadership and Self-Management Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities
VI. Recruitment Qualifications
Education:
University Degree in economics, finance, accounting, law, public administration or other related field. Additional qualifications in environmental protection, biology, ecology, environmental law are an advantage.
Experience:
• At least four years of experience in administrative work, accounting/finance, economics, or other substantive area is required.
• Previous experience in development assistance or related work for a donor organization, consulting company, public organization, or NGO is a very strong advantage.
• Previous experience in the environment sector is an advantage.
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling web-based management systems.
Language Requirements: • Fluency in oral and written English, Romanian and Russian is a must.
• Working knowledge of one or more additional languages relevant for Moldova, including, Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian or sign language is an asset.
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ANNEX II. TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE PROJECT BOARD.
General provisions: The Project Board (hereinafter - Board) of the "CLIMATE EAST: Sustainable management of pastures and community forests in Moldova’s first National Park Orhei to demonstrate climate change mitigation and adaptation benefits and dividends for local communities" (in hereinafter the Project) is established by the Ministry of Environment with representatives of central and local government, international organizations and civil society that are involved in the project. Members: 1. Lazăr Chirică, Vice-minister of environment, Chairman of Committee; 2. Maria Nagornîi, Chief Department of analysis, monitoring and evaluation of policies, Ministry of Environment, vice-chairman of Committee; 3. Narine Sahakyan, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Moldova; 4. Henno Putnik, Project Manager of the Department for Cooperation, EU Delegation to Moldova; 5. Tudor Botnari, Vice-director of Agency ”Moldsilva”. 6. Angela Dogotari, Chief Department of land improvement and land resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry; 7. Valentin Luchian, Deputy chief Department of Land Relations and Soil Protection, Agency for Land Relations and Cadastre 8.. Ion Nasalciuc, Chief of Department of Agriculture and Food, Orhei District Council 9. Petru Dogocher, President of the Association of Mayors of Orhei district; 10. Alexandru Postoronca, Executive Director, NGO ”Apa Codrilor”; Responsibilities: The Board is responsible for conducting control of qualitative and timely implementation of activities under the Project. Functional management: The functional management in performing the responsibilities under the project will be provided by the Board through: • ensuring the project implementation according to its work plans. • promoting social dialogue (between government agencies and civil society) on issues related to project
activities; • ensure transparency in the use of funds; • examination of other activities that may occur in coordination with the implementing agency.
Board functions:
1. The Board has the following core functions: • examines and approves in accordance with the procedures of the implementing agency and donor organization,
the project related documents; • approves work plans and project budgets at project’s manager proposal which will be further submitted to the
UNDP Regional Coordinator (Bratislava) and the European Commission in Brussels; • approves significant changes in work plans and project activities; • examines, analyzes and approves quarterly and annual reports submitted by the project manager and PMT
(Project Management Team); • provides consultative support to the Project Manager and PMT; • promotes collaboration between national institutions and stakeholders involved in project implementation and
arbitrates any conflicts arising between them during project implementation; • if necessary, elaborates relevant guidelines and recommendations for local experts;
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2. The Project Board promotes sustained efforts for mobilizing additional resources, including for further activities required to accomplish the project. Board activities: • The Board will meet when necessary but not less frequently than once per quarter. The quorum required for the
validity of the Board meeting is 51% of the total number of members; • Meetings may be convened by the President on his own initiative or at the proposal of one third of Project
Board members and / by PMT, based on relevant arguments; • Meetings are chaired by the Board Chairman and in his absence by the vice-president of the Board, appointed
by the President; • The Secretary will inform board members and PMT on the date of meeting and on agenda with at least 10 days
prior to the meeting; • The documents for the meeting shall be submitted in writing or at the request of board members in electronic
format by the PMT with at least 5 days before the date of the meeting; • Board members submit in writing their proposals and objections regarding the documents presented for
examination with at least three days before the board meeting; • Decisions are made by open vote by a simple majority of those present. • Board members that due to objective reasons cannot attend the meeting, delegate another person within the
represented institution for meeting attendance; • For the examination of issues at project implementation workplace, the Board may set up special working
groups; • Reimbursement of board members field trip expenses should not be covered by the project ; • The Board will elaborate and present annual reports on project implementation.
Secretariat and Board Secretary: • Organizes Board meetings; • Ensures the link between the Board, the Implementing Agency, and the national institutions involved in project
implementation. Period of the Board activity The Committee shall exercise its functions during project implementation with the extension of its responsibilities in the case of extension of project duration.
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ANNEX III. MINUTES OF INCEPTION WORKSHOP
Workshop chaired by: Lazar Chirica, Deputy Minister of Environment Minutes written by: Olga Taran, Project assistant INCEPTION WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES: The aim of the inception workshop is to:
1. To present the inception report with updated information regarding the project; 2. To present detailed project work plan.
Note: Folders were distributed to each participant of the meeting with the agenda, logistical note and the Project Document. The participants signed the check list.
Inception workshop Agenda 11 September 2013 Conference room, 4th floor, Orhei City Hall, 160, V. Mahu str.
09.30 - 09.50 Opening Remarks/Introduction
Lazar Chirica, Deputy Minister of Environment Narine Sahakyan, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP Moldova Henno PUTNIK EU, Delegation to the Republic of Moldova
09.50 - 10.05 Current state of pasturelands in Moldova - Problems and solutions Iurie Senic, Chief, Ecological Agriculture, Renewables and Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry
10.05 - 11.20 Current state of pasturelands in Orhei region Ion Nasalciuc, Chief of Agriculture section, Raional Council Orhei
10.20 - 10.40 Best practices in afforestation of degraded lands in Moldova Tudor Botnari, Deputy General Director
10.40 – 11.10 Coffee break 11.10 - 11.30 Carbon monitoring on degraded lands
Ion Talmaci, Technical Director, Forest Research and management Institute, Moldsilva Agency
11.30 - 12.20 Presentation of project relevance, objectives, activities, management arrangements, logical framework, monitoring & evaluation Alexandru Rotaru, Project Manager, CLIMA-EAST project UNDP Moldova
12.20 - 12.50 Discussions: Questions and Answers, Suggestions 12.50 - 13.00 Concluding Remarks 13.30 - 14.30 Lunch (“Iarna café”, Ivancea) 14.30 - 16.00 Field visit to degraded lands to be afforested/, afforested lands with native species
and degraded pastures (Ivancea) For interested participants
Inception workshop Minutes Issues discussed: 1. Opening/Welcoming note The meeting started with a welcome note on behalf of the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Lazar Chirica thanked all participants for coming at the Clima East Inception Workshop and for the willingness to be part of this project implementing process.
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Taking into consideration that the expected project outcomes can be achieved only through common efforts and with the support of concerned ministries and organizations, Mr. Chirica asked all delegated representatives to actively participate in discussions and to state their opinions and suggestions. Mr. Scutelnic welcomed participants on behalf of Orhei District Council and expressed his gratitude towards the team of UNDP Moldova and the EU Delegation to Moldova for their support provided to the Orhei District and especially to the communities of Orhei National Park.
Mrs. Narine Sahakyan welcomed participants on behalf of UNDP Moldova. Mrs. Sahakyan highlighted the relevance of the project for Moldova and for the area. She underlined that Moldova is highly impacted by climate variability and change, and that in recent years the country has experienced repeated droughts and floods and climate change projections point to the fact that problems related to extreme weather events or aridization will get worse in the future. Ecosystems and biodiversity are among the sectors most affected, sectors which are crucial for agricultural productivity and the livelihoods of a large share of the Moldovan population. Ecosystems such as pastures and forests store vast amounts of carbon in soil. When these ecosystems are affected by unsustainable human activities they cause release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere which further contributes to climate change and its negative impacts.
To address this issue, the European Union has developed a large regional platform called, Clima East. This initiative has as objective to demonstrate through pilot projects the feasibility of ecosystem‐based approaches to climate change, demonstrating that intact ecosystems can have a strong positive and cost‐efficient effect on both climate change mitigation and adaptation.
In Moldova, the pilot project is responding to main biodiversity challenges in the recently established Orhei National Park area and will contribute to reducing vulnerability to climate change, fighting the loss of biodiversity and forest area, as well as stopping soil erosion and landslides, pasture degradation and low grazing capacity of existing pastures.
The project has the larger aim to demonstrate a natural resource management model in the pastures and forests of the National Park which increases the ecosystems’ capacity to retain carbon while at the same time retaining biodiversity and economic values, as such contributing to the sustainable development of the region. The best practices and lessons learned from piloting innovative pasture and community forest management systems are expected to be replicated throughout the country. In addition, the project will contribute to promoting a better understanding of the problems related to climate change impacts and contribute to local and regional sustainable development.
Mrs. Sahakyan stressed that as in any project, the success of the one being initiated today will crucially depend on a strong collaboration and concerted effort of all involved partners. She encouraged the participants to participate actively during the inception workshop and even more during all steps of project implementation. Mr. Henno Putnik welcomed participants on behalf of EU Delegation to Moldova. Mr. Putnik mentioned that the Clima East project is part of a bigger EU funded Clima East package – amounting 18 mln euro. The overall objective of Clima East package is to support European Neighborhood Partnership East Countries plus Russian Federation in reducing greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions and in better preparing to deal with climate change impacts. The Clima East package consists of two components: the technical assistance “Clima East Policy” project amounting 7 mln euro, which is implemented by the HTSPE consortium and “Clima East pilots” amounting 11 mln euro, which is implemented by UNDP. Both of these components were officially launched in Brussels in July 2013 and are scheduled to run until end of 2016. The Clima East policy project aims to increase the partnership countries understanding on the EU climate acquis, to improve their capacities to implement international climate change agreements and to support the development of climate change mitigation and adaptation policy and strategy. The Clima East pilots aim to demonstrate the importance of intact eco-systems for climate change mitigation and adaptation. In Moldova, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia, the pilots focus on sustainable management of pastures. Mr. Putnik underlined that all the activities that he had mentioned, both policy and pilots, are part of the same Clima East package – they have strong potential links which have to be fully utilized in order to maximize their impact. 2. The current state of pastures in Moldova. Problems, solutions and best practices Mr. Iurie Senic started the presentation by underlining the importance of pastures for the country, being not only a source of cattle supply but also a characteristic of our attitude towards agricultural lands. Mr. Senic informed that the area of pastures in Moldova amounts to 380 thousand hectares or 15.2% of total area. These pastures are owned by private owners and by the state. The pasture management in Moldova is regulated by two main laws: Law on animal husbandry (chapter 4) and the Regulation on grazing and mowing (Government Decision).
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One important factor that must be taken into account when speaking about effective pasture management is ensuring adequate pasture exploitation. Today, unfortunately, pastures are used excessively; with 20-25% more than it is accepted by law (1 hectare for 160 head of cattle). Other factors that negatively influence the condition of pastures are: climate change, natural disasters, habitat change, inadequate management and attitude towards pasture usage (incl. pollution caused by households). Mr. Senic stressed that due to inappropriate management of pastures, these areas are often affected by invasive species. Today, in Moldova are two invasive species that are extremely aggressive which considerably reduce the productivity of pastures. One of this species has been spotted in Trebujeni village (Orhei National Park area). The solutions for improvement of pastures condition are: fighting worthless vegetation; destroying molehills; draining the excess of humidity; usage of fertilizers; reseeding and overseeding; establishment of seeded pastures. For the appropriate pasture management are responsible the local public authorities and the mayors. In order to fulfill this reasonability it is necessary to have adequate pasture management plans. 3. The current state of pastures in Orhei region Mr. Ion Nasalciuc, started his presentation with general information. The pastures, in Orhei district, count about 20% of the total district area. This high percentage gives opportunities to local population to hold cattle, which for many of them are the only source of existence. The pastures in Orhei district are facing continuous risks: lack of basic maintenance measures; overgrazing described by a disproportionate number of animals grazing simultaneously on the entire surface; lack of rotation for grazing sectors and others. In order to stop further pasture degradation and to improve their condition it is necessary to implement protective and improving measures:
1. On pastures located on slopes with high risk of erosion, grazing should begin in the last decade of May, or the first decade of June; 2. Grazing period should vary depending on the weather and vegetation conditions; the grazing period should end in the first decade of November; 3. When distributing land for grazing, the LPAs must take into account the animal species and the floristic composition of grasslands; 4. LPA must prepare pasture management plans and measures for maintenance, improvement and rational exploitation; 5. Introduce rotation of grazing sectors, in order to ensure sustainable use of pastures; 6. Enforce the provision of law, according to which, on 10 hectares of pasture should graze not more than 8 cattle.
Mr. Nasalciuc underlined that the Clima East project, which envisages activities for restoration of degraded lands and improvement of pastures is highly important for the Orhei district and mainly for the Orhei National Park. 4. Good practices in afforestation of degraded lands in Moldova Mr. Tudor Botnari, Deputy Director of “Moldsilva” Agency, underlined the importance of establishment of Orhei National Park, being a success of the efforts committed by UNDP, Ministry of Environment and “Moldsilva” Agency. Mr. Botnari started the presentation with general information on activities implemented by “Moldsilva” Agency in afforestation works. Currently, “Moldsilva” Agency implements joint projects with World Bank: “Soil Conservation in Moldova” and “Development of communal forest sector in Moldova", in the framework of which will be planted 28,800 ha of forest cultures on degraded lands, in 600 communities. As regarding national afforestation programmes, “Moldsilva” implements:
1. National Programme for exploitation of new lands and increase of soil fertility for 2003-2010; 2. Program for regeneration and afforestation of lands from forestry fund for 2003-2020; 3. National Programme on establishment of national ecological network for 2011-2018.
The strategic directions for development of the forestry sector are: I. Strengthening the potential of existing natural forests II. Conservation of forests biodiversity III. Expansion of areas covered with forest vegetation IV. Increasing the efficiency of security and protection of forests.
The benefits and contributions for local communities of new forests are multiple, such as: • mitigating negative impacts of climate change; • re-inclusion in general productive circulation of previously unusable land; • improving environmental factors with direct effects on human health and ecological security of the country; • increase of crops productivity; • settlement of needs in firewood and wood for rural constructions; • additional work places;
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• improving rural landscape and of ecotourism potential. Mr. Botnari thanked UNDP and EU representatives for designing and implementing this project and expressed the hope that all expected results and outcomes will be achieved with the efforts of all stakeholders. 5. Carbon monitoring on degraded lands Mr. Ion Talmaci, presented the goals and procedures for carbon monitoring within afforestation of degraded lands. The main objectives for carbon monitoring are:
• Facilitating the evidence of project activities; • Defining the initial situation and evaluating project performance • Determination of reductions in CO2 emission achieved during project implementation • Confirmation that all project requirements related to Article 12 of the Kyoto Protocol and other applicable
requirements are being followed Mr. Talmaci mentioned that the procedure of carbon monitoring is a common procedure in forestry but it is very strict, being verified by international certified companies. During 2001-2013 were delimited for carbon evaluation 400 plots (within the above mentioned “Moldsilva” and World Bank joint projects). All the activities start initially with delimitation of boundaries, which is performed with GPS in order to set the exact coordinates. The next step is to set the criteria for stratification: degree of soils fertility; main species; age; level of successful planting. Next, depending on the share of obtained layers, is being set a number of samples. Indicators affecting CO2 sequestration capacity:
1. Productivity of forest plants; 2. Performing timely and qualitative maintenance activities of arboretums; 3. Providing security and protection for new forests.
The benefits of these projects and afforestation works in general are multiple, and since Mr. Botnari mentioned the majority of them in his presentation, Mr. Talmaci just added some like: obtaining financial resources from sale of the emission reductions; reducing erosion processes, strengthening landforms, improvement of environmental factors with direct effects on human health and ecological security of the country. 6. Project presentation Mr. Alexandru Rotaru, started the presentation by defining the main purpose of the Clima East Project. The project's objective is to demonstrate a natural resource management model in the pastures and forests of Moldova which increases ecosystems’ capacity to sequester carbon under pending climate risks, while at the same time retaining biodiversity and economic values. The Clima East project will be implemented during 4 years (2013-2016), it is financed by European Commission (budget of 535,000 EUR) and implemented by UNDP Moldova. The project contains three components: Component 1: Designing pasture and community forest restoration plans
• Pasture inventory (assess soil and vegetation conditions, evaluations of productivity and production quality, hay productivity (if any), cattle support, carbon storage, emission reduction and sequestration potential.
• Development of pasture management plans developed based on pasture inventory for 18 communities (5,890.92 ha).
• Development of forests management plans for 1,392 ha of community forests. Component 2: Implementation of the forest and pasture restoration projects
• Restoration of 500 ha of pasture land based on developed pasture management plans. • Afforestation of 150 ha of degraded lands based on the national guidelines on scientific forest management
and silvicultural practices for degraded lands using native species. Component 3: Carbon assessment and monitoring and results sharing
• A robust pasture and forest carbon monitoring system in place: carbon monitoring and assessment of afforested degraded lands (volume of biomass growth, carbon stocks of dead wood etc., root biomass and litter biomass); Soil carbon monitoring and Biodiversity monitoring.
• Awareness and replication of project successful experience at local, regional and national level about sustainable grassland, forest management and carbon benefits.
Project implementation The main project managemend body is the Project Board, the representatives of which have been already designated and it is expected to have in the next days the approved regulation for Project Board functioning. The Project Board will have 9 members, made up of one representative of each of the following institutions:
• Ministry of Environment (Senior Executive, chairing the PB); • Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry; • Agency “Moldsilva”;
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• Agency for Land Relations and Cadastre; • UNDP Moldova; • EU Delegation in Moldova; • Local NGO; • Raional Council Orhei; • Association of mayors from Orhei.
The project is implemented by UNDP Moldova according to UNDP rules and procedures. The project team is composed of two persons: project manager and project assistant. For the current year 2013, the project intends to achieve the following results:
1. Inventory of 5,890.92 ha of pastures; 2. Elaboration of pasture management plans; 3. 696 ha of community forests with management plans developed; 4. Soil preparation for afforestation works; 5. Planting.
The monitoring of project implementation will be carried out by the project team and UNDP Moldova with the support of UNDP Regional Technical Advisor, in accordance with the UNDP and the EU Commission procedures. The monitoring activities will consist of:
Project launch: Inception workshop (Inception Report), approval of project logical matrix and completion of the work plan for the 1st year of implementation; Quarterly: Quarterly reports presented to the Project Board and submitted on the electronic platform of UNDP; Annually: Annual reports to Project Board, UNDP and EC. Periodic reports through field visits: Reports of UNDP missions and missions of UNDP Regional Technical Advisor (Bratislava);
Project Evaluation:
• Independent mission at end of project implementation followed by a Report on project implementation; • EU annual missions on project implementation; • Financial audit.
7. Questions and discussions
Mr. Alexandru Rotaru opened the floor for questions or other suggestions on the discussed issues. The representative of the Institute for Ecology and Geography asked the Project Manager, if under the Clima
East Project some protective measures will be developed for the rare plants that grow in Orhei National Park area. Mr. Rotaru mentioned that within project framework will be performed as earlier mentioned pasture
inventory – which will provide also information on biodiversity and the pasture management plans which will be further developed, will include measures for biodiversity conservation.
Mr. Dogocher, Mayor of Vatici village suggested that for better and realistic results of pasture inventory, is better to start this exercise in spring 2014 and to do it a whole vegetation period.
Mr. Viorel Petic, director of Forest Enterprise Orhei stressed that it will be impossible to perform the plantation on degraded lands from the silvicultural point of view, as the soil has to be prepared one vegetation period before the proper plantation. It means that the most optimistic timeline will be to do soil preparation during fall and planting in spring time.
Mr. Rotaru mentioned that this recommendations will be taken into account, and changes to the project work plan will be presented to the Project board.
As there were no other questions, Mr. Alexandru Rotaru invited all participants to continue with next point on agenda and take the field visit.
Conclusions and recommendations: Through the Inception Workshop, the Clima East Project is officially launched and recommended changes to Work plan, will be presented to the project board for approval.
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ANNEX IV. MINUTES OF PROJECT BOARD FIRST MEETING
Date: Tuesday, October 8, 2013, 10:00. Place: Protocol Room of Ministry of Environment, 6th floor Project board attending members:
1. Lazăr Chirică, Vice-minister of environment, president of Committee; 2. Maria Nagornîi, Chief Department of analysis, monitoring and evaluation of policies, Ministry of Environment, vice-president of Committee; 3. Narine Sahakyan, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Moldova; 4. Angela Dogotari, Chief Department of land improvement and land resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry; 5. Petru Dogocher, President of the Association of Mayors of Orhei district; 6. Alexandru Postoronca, Executive Director, NGO ”Apa Codrilor”; 7. Alexandru Rotaru, Project Manager ”Clima East Moldova”, secretary of Committee; 8. Alexei Negrescu, Chief Department of Land Relations and Soil Protection, Agency for Land Relations and Cadastre – representative of Mr. Valentin Luchian, Deputy chief Department of Land Relations and Soil Protection, Agency for Land Relations and Cadastre. 9. Petru Rotaru, Chief Department of Forestry Fund, Protected Areas, Security and Protection, Agency ”Moldsilva” – representative of Mr. Tudor Botnari, Vice-director of Agency ”Moldsilva”.
Members that were not present:
1. Henno Putnik, Project Manager of the Department for Cooperation, EU Delegation to Moldova; 2. Ion Nasalciuc, Chief of Department of Agriculture and Food, Orhei District Council; 3. Tudor Botnari, Vice-director of Agency ”Moldsilva”; 4. Valentin Luchian, Deputy chief Department of Land Relations and Soil Protection, Agency for Land Relations and Cadastre.
Agenda:
1. Opening/Welcoming note 2. Presentation of the Order for Steering Committee establishment; Membership and Regulation 3. Brief project description; Achieved deliverables; Presentation of the work plan for the fourth quarter of 2013
and its approval 4. Presentation of proposed budget revisions for 2013 and 2014 and their approval 5. Presentation and approval of lands proposed for afforestation 6. Discussions; Recommendations; Conclusions
Folders were distributed to each participant of the meeting with the agenda, overall annual work plan, work plan for 4th quarter, activity report for 3rd quarter, list of plots proposed for afforestation and minutes of the commission for the evaluation of lands that were proposed for afforestation. 1. Opening/Welcoming note
Mrs. Narine Sahakyan welcomed the Steering Committee members and thanked them for finding time for this meeting. Mrs. Sahakyan highlighted that the project Clima East Moldova was officially launched in September through an inception workshop during which the project and its activities were presented. Mrs. Sahakyan mentioned that during one month, that has passed, the project has naturally little to report, but this meeting is a good occasion to discuss the project’s plans for the next trimester and there is also an important issue that must be decided by the Project Board – which is to approve the plots for afforestation under the Clima East Moldova project.
Mrs. Sahakyan asked the Project Manager to report on the activities that were performed within the project. 2. Presentation of the Order for Project Board establishment; Membership and Regulation
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As Mr. Lazar Chirica, the chair of the Project Board, announced that he will be late for some minutes, all Project Board members proposed to move on with the agenda and asked Mr. Alexandru Rotaru, the project manager, to start his presentation. 3. Brief project description; Achieved deliverables; Presentation of the work plan for the fourth quarter of 2013 and its approval Mr. Alexandru Rotaru welcomed the Project Board members and continued the meeting with a brief presentation of the project, its objectives and activities. At the same time in the presentation was made reference to the project management mechanism, the role of the Project Board and the procedures / mechanisms for project monitoring for both national level and for donor (presentation is attached). Achieved results: on 11th September 2013 the inception workshop was organized, during which the project was officially launched; and during 9-13 September the first project monitoring mission by the European Commission was undertaken. Also in July-September terms of reference were developed and vacancy positions for several consultants (consultants for developing forest management plans, company for developing pasture management plans and consultants for carbon assessment and monitoring) announced. During August and September proposals of degraded lands for afforestation from local authorities (district and local cadastral engineers) were collected. Also in September, the evaluation commission visited 19 areas of degraded lands that were proposed by communities for afforestation. The assessment report was included in the maps that were distributed at the beginning of the meeting (attached). Activities planned for the 4th quarter of 2013: Activities related to communal forests management planning:
• preparatory work to be carried out for communal forest management planning; • organization of the first conference where all the beneficiaries will be informed on the purpose and results to
be achieved through this project; • conducting the field phase for at least ¼ of the area (400 ha)
Afforestation of degraded lands:
• delimitation of areas for afforestation with GPS; • pedological analysis of land; • design works for forest plants; • the preparatory work of the soil; • actual planting works to be performed in the spring of 2014.
It is proposed to contract a team for the inventory and elaboration of management plans for communal pastures and to conduct the inventory activities that are possible: assessing the current status of soil and water resources in order to be able to start in spring with the vegetation inventory. Together with the local authorities the most suitable pastures for restoration are going to be identified in accordance with the requirements developed. The project aims to develop methodologies for the allocation of grants to local authorities and if possible, to make an inventory of the 500 ha of pastures in order to know what steps are needed to be taken in order to start the amelioration activities in the next year. For the carbon monitoring, it is proposed that in Q4 to develop a database and to monitor the carbon on degraded land. 4. Presentation of proposed budget revisions for 2013 and 2014 and their approval Mr. Alexandru Rotaru mentioned that each member of the Project Board has in his folder the work plans for the fourth quarter of 2013 and for the year 2014. For the fourth quarter and for the next year are proposed a budget revision as the project has started later than planned, and many activities cannot be executed this year. The project manager asked the Project Board to support the budget revisions. Ms. Angela Dogotari asked the project manager to outline what activities were planned for 2013 and what activities are going to be transferred for the following year. Mr. Alexandru Rotaru explained that for 2013 were expected to be carried out: planting works (150 ha); pasture inventory works and elaboration of pasture management plans (at least for half of the area - 250 ha) and forest management planning for at least half of the area. Currently forest management planning is proposed to be done for at least one third of the area. The approved budget for 2013 was 210,873 USD, but according to realistic calculations around 84,000 USD are planned to be used by the end of year..
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5. Presentation and approval of lands proposed for afforestation The project team, together with the district cadastral engineers, requested the communities to present the list of lands proposed for afforestation. As a result, from 9 communities proposals for afforestation of degraded lands with a total area of 270 ha were received,. For each area that was proposed for afforestation an inventory card was elaborated. For the evaluation of lands an evaluation commission was created with the following composition: Ministry of the Environment, Agency "Moldsilva", district cadastral engineer, Clima East Project Manager, the mayor and the local cadastral engineer of the community that proposed the land. As a result of the evaluation process: 141 ha are proposed for afforestation which are divided into categories: 1. sectors which can be planted exclusively or mostly with native species (7 sectors of 95 ha); 2. sectors which can be planted with native species, but on which the evaluation commission has some reservations and depend on the approval of the Project Board – the reason is the distance of these plots from the boundary of the National Park - most of these sectors are at a distance of approx. 3-5 km from the park boundary, but anyway these lands are part of the communities that fall within the National Park (3 sectors in Putintei and Ghetlova villages totaling 43 ha); 3. heavily degraded lands, on which planting of acacia and other species is unavoidable (Pinus nigra, Russian olive), but the condition of these degraded lands has a negative impact on the community. In some of these sectors can be performed only manual works of the soil, which reduces the quality of the works. 4. plots that cannot be afforested under this project:
a) a sector of 2.8 ha proposed by mayoralty Morozeni, the reasons are: this land is already half covered with Acacia and the other half is covered with reed;
b) a sector from Ghetlova village which is totally covered with acacia; c) 2 ha of poplar forest, which is partially dried, located in the Bravicea village, but which is not a degraded land; d) 6 ha of land that is adjacent to an existing forest of acacia in Săseni, but in its neighborhood are two stables
with sheep and goats, which currently are grazing in this forest. This puts a great risk on any planting works. There are some reservations on an area of 2.5 ha in the center of Teleseu village: the mayoralty is proposing this sector for afforestation, but this land is not degraded, and the evaluation commission considers that this land can be used to create a park. The Project Board was asked to decide on this sector, if it is eligible for afforestation or not. In conclusion, for afforestation are proposed degraded lands with an area of 141.94 ha (first and second categories) and are proposed for consideration the sectors: "Neagu" in Puţintei 10 ha and "Deasupra cimitirului" in s.Peresecina 12 ha. The plot from Peresecina is highly degraded, it is adjacent to an acacia forest and has a southern exposition (planting can have low results). The minutes of the land selection process and the synthesis of the evaluation are attached to these minutes. 6. Discussions; Recommendations; Conclusions Ms. Angela Dogotari asked the project manager if during the land assessment, the evaluation commission took into account the quality of the assessed lands (lands can be afforested if their quality is lower than 40%). Mr. Rotaru explained that the evaluation commission had discussed with the cadastral engineers, including on this subject. When a sector was being evaluated the commission was analyzing the cadastral maps: on the majority of these maps the proposed lands were marked as unproductive lands affected by landslides and a great part of these lands are included in the Government Programme for conservation and soil fertility improvement for 2011 - 2020. Mr. Negrescu asked in what areas of the Orhei National Park are envisaged these afforestation works. Mr. Rotaru answered that most of the afforestation works are envisaged for the protection area of the Park and less inside the Park (economic zone), because the Park boundaries are mostly – the forest boundaries. Asked why there were not proposed more lands for afforestation, Mr. Alexandru Rotaru said that it is a big problem that municipalities do not want to propose lands for afforestation. It is very difficult to obtain that a mayoralty to propose some lands for afforestation. Mrs. Angela Dogotari asked if it is possible to restore the protection belts of infields under this project. Mr. Alexandru Rotaru answered that this is not possible, as it is not the scope of the project. Ms. Nadja Vetters asked how these lands were proposed; how the mayors were informed and what were their options and why there are some communities from the Park that have not proposed any land.
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Mr. Rotaru explained that there were several steps in the process. On July 17th was held the first meeting with the mayors from the communities of Orhei National Park, from Orhei district, in which they were informed about the project activities and were asked to identify degraded lands for afforestation. Then, together with the cadastral engineer from Orhei district, was elaborated a letter addressed to all mayors in the district, in which they were required, centralized, to propose degraded lands for afforestation. For the other six localities that are not in Orhei district, the project implementation team had sent separate letters in which requested proposals for afforestation of degraded lands. Until September was collected information that was accompanied by maps on which mayoralties marked both degraded lands for afforestation and pasture lands for improvement, indicating their surface, cadastral contour and cadastral number. Many communities, such as Vatici, proposed only lands for pasture improvement and no degraded lands for afforestation. Mr. Peter Dogocher, the Vatici mayor explained that the village had offered for afforestation to "Moldsilva” agency many sectors, and although currently there are still some sectors that could be afforested, they cannot be proposed because in these sectors are still grazing sheep and goats, and there is a great risk that the investments in these sectors will be inefficient. If, as a result of this project will be created improved pastures of a good quality and the society will become aware of the results obtained, only then this investment will be effective and welcomed. Ms. Vetters asked which share of the lands proposed for afforestation is located outside the limits of the National Park. Mr. Rotaru answered that less than half: about 30%. The sectors from Peresecina and Teleseu are adjacent to the current forestry fund and therefore in these sectors are proposed to plant the species which grow in the neighboring forest. Ms. Angela Dogotari underlined that the proposal of a land for afforestation must reflect the decision of the local public council and not the decision of the mayor. Mr. Rotaru noted that some communities have already the local council’s decision on the allocation of land for afforestation and from other communities a letter of guarantee was requested with the indication of the date of the council meeting and if the advisors and society were informed on project activities, in order to start the works and the soil analysis. Mr. Rotaru assured that no investment will be made without the decision of the local council. Mr. Rotaru added that, in order to ensure the sustainability of the project, the community will be asked to engage the local population in afforestation works, so that local individuals could obtain a sense of responsibility towards envisaged outputs. Ms. Vetters proposed that members of the Project Board to decide on the land from the center of Teleseu village, which is not degraded, but that was proposed by the mayoralty for afforestation. All members of the Project Board supported the proposal of non- acceptance of this land for afforestation explaining that it is not degraded and therefore not eligible under this project. Mr. Lazar Chirica proposed that the Project Board members vote for or against the approval of: the progress report for the 3rd quarter, multiannual work plan and the work plan for the 4th quarter, the budget revisions and the proposed lands for afforestation. The Project Board members voted unanimously to approve these documents. CONCLUSIONS:
1. Approval of lands proposed for afforestation and selection of species to be done after getting the results of soil analysis;
2. Approval of the documents: activity report for the 3rd quarter, multi-annual work plan, work plan for the 4th
quarter and the budget revisions for Q4 and year 2014.
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ANNEX V. PROJECT WORK PLAN
EXPECTED OUTPUTS ACTIVITIES
2013 2014 2015 2016 Resp. Part
Planned Budget
Q3, ‘13
Q4, ‘13
Q1, '14
Q2, '14
Q3, '14
Q4, '14
Q1, '15
Q2, '15
Q3, '15
Q4, '15
Q1, '16
Q2, '16
Q3, '16
Q4, '16
Funding Source
Code Budget Description
Total
Fund Donor 2013 2014 2015 2016 Total Output 1: Pasture and community forest restoration plans for Orhei National Park area designed. Baseline: 1. No communities (0 ha) with pasture management plans in place. 2. 0 ha of community forests with management plans Target: 1. 18 communities (5,890.92 ha) with pasture management plans developed. 2. 1,392 ha of community forests with management plans developed. Indicators: 1. Number of communities with pasture management plans developed 2. Number of hectares of community forests with management plans developed.
Designing pasture and community
forest restoration
plans
1.1 Forest management
planning
1.1.1 Examination of the existing materials on the type of management and general state of the community forests, submitted for examination. Plotting and land marking in the office of the community forests (Preparatory phase)
MoE
30079 10159 71300 Local Consultants 6,429 6,429 0 0 12857
1.1.2 Delimitation of plots of the community forests in the field Pillars instalation. Taking GPS coordinates. (Field work) 30079 10159 71600 Travel 4,545 4,156 0 0 8701
1.1.3 Description of the plots (parcels) of community forests. Data processing. Elaboration of management planning maps (tree maps) . (Office phase)
30079 10159 72100
Contractual Services - Companies 51,948 41,558 0 0 93506
1.1.4 Processing of the cards and elaboration of projects on forest management planning of community forests
30079 10159 75700 Trainings and Workshops 8,442 6,364 0 0 14805
1.1.5 Provide forest management plans to beneficiaries.
1.2 Pasture inventory
and designing
pasture management
plans
1.2.1 Conduct a comprehensive pasture inventory based on the field scientific study. Assess the soil, vegetation, water resources conditions. Assess pastures productivity and production quality,hay productivity, pasture cattle support, current pasture carbon storage, emission reduction and sequestration potential.
1.2.2 Develop pasture management plans for each of the communities from the park, based on the performed comprehensive pasture inventory, existing scientific and technical data, and in close consultation with pasture owners..
1.2.3 Develop a Grazing monitoring system
1.2.4 Develop a detailed budget for mid and long term management plan implementation. 1.2.5 Consult through workshop/’s the management plans with pasture owners and users
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1.2.6 Support local public authorities in endorsing the pasture management plans to the Local Community Councils to be approved.
1.2.7 Provide recommendations to local public authorities to enforce implementation of pasture management plans.
Total Activity 1 71,364 58,506 0 0 129,870 Output 2: Forest and pasture restoration projects implemented Baseline: 1. Degraded pasture on the most of the park territory 2. No degraded lands afforested on the park territory. Target: 1. 500 ha of pasture land restored 2. 150 ha of degraded lands afforested. Indicators: Number of hectares of pasture land restored and degraded lands afforested.
Implementation of
the forest and
pasture restoration
projects
2.1 Implementat
ion of the forest
restoration projects
2.1.1 Identification of degraded lands proposed for afforestation (LPA, Cadastre).
30079 10159 72100
Contractual Services-Companies 77,922 19,481 9,740 9,740 116883
2.1.2 On-field inventory of the degraded lands proposed for afforestation. 30079 10159 72600 Grants 19,481 116,883 116,883 19,481 272727 2.1.3 Mapping of plots, existing forest vegetation inventory, designing the planting scheme and selection of species for afforestation
2.1.4 Pedological analysis of the plots proposed for afforestation
2.1.5 Soil preparation (manual or mechanical)
2.1.6 Plantation from seeds or seedlings
2.1.7 Manual tending and Completion of forest crops
2.1.8 Assisting the local public authorities to designate responsible staff for managing community forests.
2.2 Implementat
ion of pasture
restoration projects
2.2.1 Assessment of pasture lands proposed for restoration (based on data provided by LPA, Cadastre).
2.2.2 Development of the criteria for selection of the pasture lands for restoration.
2.2.3 Consultation with LPA in order to identify the most suitable pasture plots for restoration in accordance with approved criteria
2.2.4 Development the grants allocation scheme, evaluation forms, announce the calls and select the project proposals.
2.2.5 Conduct a rapid pasture inventory in order to identify the vegetation type, condition and needed intervention.
2.2.6 Support LPA in development of the project proposals through capacity building and explanation workshops. Provide them recommendations for pasture restoration based on rapid pasture inventory.
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2.2.7 Conduct an evaluation of pasture restoration project proposals, by the project by evaluation team, in order to select the plots which will show the highest impact on climate change and climate change benefits. Endorse the results of assessment to the Project board for approval.
2.2.8 Grants allocation and monitoring of activities implementation.
2.2.9 Support cattle and sheep breeders in esstablishment of the association.
Total Activity 2 97,403 136,364 126,623 29,221 389,610 Output 3: Carbon assessment and monitoring system in place Baseline: 1. No monitoring in place 2. Insufficient trainings and awareness in sustainable grassland and forest management Target: 1. a robust pasture and forest monitoring system in place. 2. Increased level of understanding at local, regional and national level about sustainable grassland and forest management. Indicators: 1. Monitoring system in place consisting of a) ecological integrity of the grassland ecosystem (richness and density of indicator species populations, such as indicator species (Festuca valesiaca, Bothriochloa ischaemum, Stipa
Carbon assessment
and monitoring and results
sharing
3.1 Carbon assessment
and monitoring
of sequestration potential
3.1.1 Develop a computer based system (excel or acces) for monitoring of the carbon dividends and ecological integrity of the ecosystem (workplan, timeframe, indicators)
30079 10159 71300 Local Consultants 6,494 1,299 1,299 16,883 25974
3.1.2 Carbon monitoring and assessment of afforested degraded lands (indicators: above-ground tree vegetation, carbon stocks of dead wood, litter biomass, soil carbon, biodiversity monitoring)
30079 10159 71400
Contractual Services - Individ 2,338 1,039 1,039 1,039 5455
3.1.3 Monitoring activities on the restored pasture lands (indicators: soil carbon, biomass of herbaceous vegetation, biodiversity monitoring)
30079 10159 71600 Travel 1,299 2,597 1,948 2,597 8442
3.1.4 Based on the observations from monitoring activities provide recommendations for planning appropriate response measures and development of recommendations for project experience replication based on the monitoring results
30079 10159 74100 Professional Services 0 0 1,299 3,247 4545
3.2 Project results sharing
3.2.1 Organizing project launching workshop (inviting representatives from communities in the area, raional structures, NGOs, Academia, mass-media etc.)
30079 10159 74200
Audio Visual&Print Prod Costs 0 1,558 2,078 3,896 7532
3.2.2 Organizing 2 workshops to present and disseminate the experience of the project at the national, regional and local level
30079 10159 75700
Trainings and Workshops 0 0 6,494 6,494 12987
3.2.3 Development of a training programme in sustainable grassland and forest management for local communities, as well as national park staff members to ensure sustainability of project activities.
3.2.4 Facilitating two training sessions dedicated to integrated management of community forests and pastures for local authorities, farmers, leaders of farmer association and other key groups.
41
capillata, Poa bulbosa, Poa angustifolia, Artemisia austriaca)). b) volume of biomass growth for forest ecosystems c) carbon dividends 2. Number of people involved in the capacity building and awareness activities at the national, regional and local levels.
3.2.5 Development and dissemination of a set of educational materials as well as special publications intended for the project beneficiaries and specialists, which would be involved directly in the project implementation (e.g Operational Manual “Management practices of community forests”, Guidebook for “sustainable pasture restoration and management”).
Total Activity 3
10,130 6,494 14,156 34,156 64,935
Project management
Quality ensurance of implementation of project activities
MoE
30079 10159 71400
Contractual Services - Individ 12,987 14,286 14,286 14,286 55844
Timely reporting
30079 10159 72400
Communic & Audio Visual Equip 1,039 1,039 1,039 1,039 4156
30079 10159 72500 Supplies 260 260 260 260 1039
30079 10159 72800
Information Technology Equipmt 3,896 0 0 0 3896
30079 10159 75100 GMS 13,795 15,186 10,945 5,527 45455
Total Activity 4 31,977 30,771 26,530 21,112 110,390
TOTAL 210,873 232,134 167,309 84,488 694,805
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Annex VI
43
Annex VI
CLIMA EAST project revised indicators
OUTPUT 1: Pasture and community forest restoration plans for Orhei National Park area designed.
Original Indicators Revised Indicators Baseline Target
1. Number of communities with pasture management plans developed
1. Number of communities and hectares of pastures managed according to the pasture management plans
1. No communities (0 ha) of pastures managed according to pasture management plans.
1. 18 communities (5,890.92 ha of pastures) managed according with pasture management plans.
2. Number of hectares of community forests with management plans developed
2. Hectares of community forests managed according to the forest management plans
2. 0 ha of community forests managed according to forest management plans
2. 1,392 ha of community forests managed according to forest management plans
OUTPUT 2: Forest and pasture restoration projects implemented
3. Number of hectares of pasture land restored. 3. Number of hectares of pastures land restored using economic valuable species.
3. Overgrazed pastures on the most of the park territory (Botriochloa ischaemum as indicator species) with weeds and poisonous species (Centaurea iberica, Carduus nutans, Cirsium sp., Carthamus lanatus, Xanthium strumarium, etc.)
3. 500 ha of restored pasture land with economic valuable species in place (e.g. Festuca sp, Poa angustifolia, Elytrigia repens, Lotus corniculatus, Medicago sp, Trifolium repens, Lolium perenne, Bromus arvense, Elytrigia repens etc.)
4. Number of hectares of degraded lands afforested.
4. Number of hectares of community degraded lands afforested using native species as lead species (oak, linden, field maple, ash, elm, cherry, poplar, willow ).
4. No community degraded lands afforested with native species as lead species on the park territory
4. 150 ha of degraded lands afforested with native species as lead species on the park territory.
OUTPUT 3: Carbon assessment and monitoring system in place
5. Monitoring system in place consisting of a) ecological integrity of the grassland ecosystem (richness and density of indicator species populations, such as indicator species (Festuca valesiaca, Bothriochloa ischaemum, Stipa capillata, Poa bulbosa, Poa angustifolia, Artemisia austriaca)). b) volume of biomass growth for forest ecosystems
5. Monitoring system in place consisting of a) ecological integrity of the grassland ecosystem (richness and density of indicator species populations, such as indicator species (Festuca valesiaca, Bothriochloa ischaemum, Stipa capillata, Poa bulbosa, Poa angustifolia, Artemisia austriaca)).
5. No monitoring in place
5. A robust computer based pasture and forest monitoring system in place
44
c) carbon dividends b) volume of biomass growth for forest ecosystems c) carbon dividends
6. Number of people involved in the capacity building and awareness activities at the national, regional and local levels. Increased level of understanding about sustainable grassland, forest management and climate change risks.
6. Number of people involved in the capacity building and awareness activities at the national, regional and local levels. Increased level of understanding about sustainable grassland, forest management and climate change risks.
6. Insufficient trainings and awareness in sustainable grassland, forest management and climate change risks
6. Increased level of understanding at local, regional and national level about sustainable grassland, forest management and climate change risks.
