Eurosite Annual Report 2015 1
About this Annual Report Unless otherwise stated all images Š Eurosite Cover photo courtesy of Elodie Maison Page 2 courtesy of Natuurpunt Page 4 and 13 courtesy of Roelof Heringa Page 5 left courtesy of Marta Crespo Page 5 right and page 10 top courtesy of Clive Hurford Page 6 courtesy of Economics and Ecosystem Services Working Group Copyright Š Eurosite, 2016
Contents 1.
Letter from the Eurosite President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
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Timeline of key activities 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
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The Eurosite Strategy 2015-2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Objective 1: Networking for Europe’s nature
Priority Activity 1: Workshops and field meetings on key issues – recognizing the importance of face to face contact. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Sharing wetlands centre best practice between Natura 2000 sites along the East Atlantic Flyway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Natura 2000 Monitoring workshop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Priority Activity 2: An online platform to allow Members to request and receive specialist information relevant to their needs . . . .
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Priority Activity 3: Working groups on interesting / specific issues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Economics and Ecosystem Services Working Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 New working groups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Other priorities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Objective 2: A Gold Standard for information
Priority Activity 1: Advice on site management in relation to conservation and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Natura 2000 Communication Platform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Eurosite guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Priority Activity 2: Training events – at various levels to suit Members’ needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Objective 3: Advocacy for site-based nature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Priority Activity 2: Timely information to Members about what is happening at EU level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Priority Activity 3: Effective communication channels with the EC, working in both directions, on policy and funding. . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Objective 4: Building a strong future
Priority Activity 1: Work with ECNC and other partners to develop funding and project opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Priority Activity 2: Secure and develop present funding: membership fees and EU funding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Priority Activity 3: Create clear financial projections (1-5 years) and build a financial reserve to improve cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
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The Eurosite Network - as of December 2015. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
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The Report of the Treasurer 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Contact us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Priority Activity 3: Technical information about funding, project management and legislative changes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Priority Activity 1: Representation for Members at European level to provide a role in policy making. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Eurosite Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eurosite Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eurosite members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Friends of Eurosite. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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1. Letter from the Eurosite President In 2014, I put myself forward for the position of Eurosite President because I believe that Eurosite provides an invaluable network of knowledge and support for site managers across Europe. Having worked in nature conservation for 19 years I know how important it can be to learn from both the successes and failures of others and how getting out of the field or office can help site managers see their work from a new perspective. During my first year as President I’m proud to say that I have seen this in action: from the drafting of our Strategy, in which our members took an active role, to our workshop on monitoring in Barcelona. Through Eurosite, Europe’s site managers have built an invaluable community. Eurosite and other European nature organisations are increasingly operating in a challenging environment, with funding for nature conservation becoming increasingly scarce. Thanks to the support of our members and the excellent work of the Eurosite Board and Secretariat staff, we have been able to weather this year and I believe, through our new Strategy we have created a strong foundation to continue the valuable work we are doing over the coming years. I hope you enjoy reading our Annual Report and that you will be inspired by our community.
Stefan Versweyveld Eurosite President
“The new Eurosite Strategy sets out a clear path for Eurosite to follow over the next five years and a strong basis for our future. I am looking forward to implementing the Strategy both for Eurosite’s members and for Europe’s nature.” Stefan Versweyveld, Eurosite President
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2. Timeline of key activities 2015 15 January Stefan Versweyveld from Natuurpunt becomes the 7th President of Eurosite
21 January Eurosite Strategy meeting (Paris) - Board, Council and Secretariat
22 January Kick-off meetings with partners and the EC for “Support for the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process” service contract (Brussels)
26 February Attendance at the 8th meeting of the Steering Committee of the Atlantic Natura 2000 Seminar Process (Brussels)
2 March Attendance at EC Environmental NGOs focus group meeting on the Fitness Check (Brussels)
27 March Launch of the wilderness, sustainable hunting, and wetlands and climate change guidelines
16 April Attendance at European Habitats Forum (EHF) meeting (Brussels)
27 April Presentation about Eurosite twinning at the 12th meeting of the Expert Group on the Management of Natura 2000 (Brussels)
20 May Attendance at the Committee of the Regions’ Territorial Impact Assessment workshop on the Birds and Habitats Directives (Brussels)
25 May Started developing a new Eurosite website
3-5 June Attendance at Green Week (Brussels)
29 June - 1 July Attendance at the Kick-off meeting of the Continental, Pannonian, Black Sea and Steppic Natura 2000 Seminar Process (Luxembourg)
30 June Launch of the Eurosite Strategy 2015-2020, and Launch of the updated Twinning guidelines
19 - 21 October Eurosite workshop ‘Natura 2000 Monitoring: Integrating conservation management and monitoring’ (Barcelona)
16 - 17 November ‘Ecological Services in Europe’s Protected Areas’ workshop (Berlin) - organised by the EUROPARC Federation - Eurosite Joint Economics and Ecosystem Services Working Group
20 November Attendance at the Nature Directives Fitness Check Conference (Brussels)
20 July We welcomed the first ever Friend of Eurosite: the Migratory Birds for People Programme
22 October Eurosite Annual General Meeting 2015
19 November Presentation of the first results of the Natura 2000 Monitoring workshop at the 13th meeting of the Expert Group on the Management of Natura 2000 (Brussels)
26 - 27 November Attendance at the informal meeting of EU Biodiversity and Nature Directors (Luxembourg)
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3. The Eurosite Strategy 2015-2020 In January 2015, the Eurosite Board, Council and Secretariat met in Paris to discuss a new Eurosite Strategy 2015-2020. A draft proposal from the Eurosite Board was considered and a new Mission, Vision, Value Proposition Statement and four Key Objectives agreed upon. A brainstorming session then took place to develop ideas for activities to fall under each objective. Following this successful meeting, the proposed activities were sent to all the members, and the top three activities for each objective were prioritised. Following the official adoption of this new Strategy, the Secretariat developed a 2015 Work Plan, which was also shared with the members. Key Performance Indicators were also developed and will continue to be refined over the period of the Strategy. In order to show our progress towards implementing the new Eurosite Strategy, this year’s annual report will be organised around the four Key Objectives and priority activites. We hope this will provide you – members and non-members – with a clear picture of our progress. Objective 1: Networking for Europe’s nature – Eurosite is recognised as a vital, relevant and active network organisation with a solid, essential agenda for European nature Priority Activity 1: Workshops and field meetings on key issues – recognizing the importance of face to face contact The clear prioritization of this activity reflects the central role that networking and field meetings have played over Eurosite’s 26 year history. That is why Eurosite is a member of the ECNC-led consortium delivering the implementation of the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process, which clearly prioritises the importance of networking and knowledge sharing. In 2015, the European Commission, with support from the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process consortium, launched a new phase of the Process, which will build on the success of the Seminars and Networking events held so far through thematic networking events based around key issues identified by the biogeographical regions. As part of this new phase, Eurosite will be supporting the Atlantic Process and in 2015 the groundwork began for a thematic workshop on estuaries to be held in Hamburg, Germany in 2016. In 2015, there were seven Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process networking events, two of which were co-organised by Eurosite. The Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process - networking Sharing wetlands centre best practice between Natura 2000 sites along the East Atlantic Flyway 13-16 September 2015, Basque Country, Spain This two-day workshop, organised and hosted by Friend of Eurosite, the Migratory Birds for People Programme, with support from Eurosite, took place at the Urdaibai Bird Centre, Basque Country, Spain on 13-16 September. The meeting focused on the management of Natura 2000 wetland sites, with an emphasis on public engagement and awareness-raising, as well as international sharing of good practice. The workshop included presentations on the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process and how to make this process more relevant to site managers and those working at wetland sites, case studies from the Urdaibai Bird Centre on their Bird Flyway project and their Bird Living Lab project, the LIFE project “Estuaries of the Basque Country”, the regeneration of Lake Takern in Sweden, and the restoration of La Nava wetlands. On the final day, a group discussion identified key issues faced when working at an international scale and ideas for how these issues can be addressed. The workshop summary report is available on the Natura 2000 Communication Platform: http:// ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/platform/news/232_sharing_wetland_centre_ best_practice_between_n2000_sites_along_the_east_atlantic_flyway_en.htm
“MBP was delighted to become a Friend of Eurosite in 2015, cementing our relationship and committing to ongoing work together. Working together to seek funding for the annual meeting and workshop in Urdaibai was a great opportunity to showcase education and engagement activities at Natura 2000 sites along the East Atlantic flyway” Chris Rostron, Head of Wetland Link International, Chair of the Migratory Birds for People Programme (MBP)
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Eurosite Natura 2000 workshop: Integrating conservation management and monitoring 19-21 October 2015, Barcelona, Spain In 2013, we held a workshop focused on terrestrial Natura 2000 monitoring in Swansea, Wales. Following on from this highly successful and well-attended workshop, in 2015 we organised a workshop on integrating conservation management and monitoring. The workshop took place on 19-21 October in Barcelona, Spain and was attended by more than 50 people from many different nature conservation organisations, local authorities and other land trusts from all around Europe (United Kingdom, Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Romania, Poland, Finland, Sweden, Germany, and Czech Republic). During the first two days, the workshop addressed three main topics regarding conservation management and monitoring of Natura 2000 sites: the roles of new technologies in informing site management, species monitoring projects and habitat monitoring projects. On the third day there was a field trip to the Museu del Ter (Manlleu, Spain). There, the session was introduced by Phil Wilson (UK), followed by presentations from Clive Hurford (Natural Resources Wales, UK) and Lydia Alvanou (Axios Delta, Greece). Afterwards the attendees separated into groups to discuss and develop recommendations for the integration of conservation management and monitoring. After lunch, the attendees visited the Ter River, accompanied by Marc Ordeix and Núria Sellarés (CERM, Center for the Study of Mediterranean Rivers), who explained how they monitor plants, invertebrates and fish in the “Illa del Sorral”. The attendees had the opportunity to see some of the invertebrates of the Ter River (most of them indicating the low quality of its water) and also saw how electric fishing was conducted in the river to monitor fish species.
“The Eurosite workshops are an invaluable resource for facilitating debate and collaboration between the member states responsible for delivering Natura 2000: it is difficult to overstate the importance of this role.” Clive Hurford, workshop co-organiser and participant
The workshop ended with the traditional EuroCocktail, where many people brought typical food from their countries - a tasty experience! The workshop presentations and first results can be found on the Natura 2000 Communication Platform: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ nature/natura2000/platform/events/events-upcoming/217_natura_2000_monitoring_workshop_en.htm
Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process meetings 8th meeting of the Atlantic Region Steering Committee, 26 February 2015, Brussels, Belgium Continental, Pannonian, Black Sea and Steppic Kick-off Seminar, 29 June - 1 July 2015, Luxembourg In 2015, Eurosite’s Network Project Manager, Jaume Tormo, attended the 8th meeting of the Steering Committee of the Atlantic Region and the Kick-off Seminar of the Continental, Pannonian, Black Sea and Steppic Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process. Jaume was present at the Continental kick-off Knowledge Market to talk about the Eurosite Twinning Programme. Twinning has been identified during the Process as a key tool for improving the management of the Natura 2000 network. Download the Eurosite Twinning Guidelines: www.issuu.com/eurosite
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Priority Activity 2: An online platform to allow Members to request and receive specialist information relevant to their needs Allowing this platform was not developed in 2015, steps towards making such a platform possible were taken, through the development of a new and more modern Eurosite website: www.eurosite.org.
Priority Activity 3: Working groups on interesting / specific issues Economics and Ecosystem Services Working Group In 2015, the work of our joint Eurosite-EUROPARC Economics and Ecosystem Services Working Group continued, with a focus on the issue of carbon sequestration. The working group organised a workshop to discuss the possibilities of trading systems on the voluntary carbon market as a potential way to finance management in protected areas in Europe. 24 participants from the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Latvia and Belarus discussed this issue on 16-17 November in the office of EUROPARC Deutschland (Berlin), who kindly hosted the seminar. The goal was to look in some detail into the carbon market and to discuss already existing trading instruments for the voluntary carbon market. The workshop incorporated a series of presentations on the general characteristics of the carbon markets in Europe, the UK Woodland and Peatland Code (partly in place, partly under development), the Moor Futures Scheme in Germany and on the motivations, experiences and expectations of private companies like Coca-Cola, First Climate, Forest Finest and Adelphi who support or participate in these kinds of schemes. The next step for the working group will be to look into the possibility of comparing existing and developing systems and to combine their strong points into a proposal for a system which can be discussed and eventually shared between protected areas. New working groups Given the importance given to working groups by the members, in our application for a 2016-2017 LIFE Framework Partnership Agreement, which we were successful in securing, we committed to re-establish the Eurosite Marine and Coastal Protected Areas Working Group and launch a new working group on wetlands and climate change. These working groups will be further developed in 2016-2017.
“In November 2015 we held our workshop on a market system for (protected) nature areas in Europe together with EUROPARC Germany. The first observation from this workshop might well be that economy and nature have more common interests than is often realised; the second one that the need for proven reliability and trust are the greatest challenges for the establishment of a market system which connects nature areas with the business community and the other parts of our economy.� Jan Veenstra, Economics and Ecosystem Services Working Group
Other priorities Although it was not identified as one of the three key priorities for this objective, Twinning is still considered an important activity under this objective. In 2015, the Eurosite Twinning guidelines were updated and promoted (see also page 8).
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Objective 2: A Gold Standard for information – Eurosite is recognised as the leading source of information about best practice in nature site management and related European policy matters Priority Activity 1: Advice on site management in relation to conservation and development Natura 2000 Communication Platform The Natura 2000 Communication Platform from the European Commission serves as a central hub for information about the Natura 2000 network and the Biogeographical Process. It is managed by a consortium led by ECNC-European Centre for Nature Conservation. Consortium partners are Eurosite and ARCADIS Belgium. Launched in 2013, the Platform continued to grow in terms of the amount of resources available and the number of people using the site during 2015. Below is a summary of key statistics about the Natura 2000 Communication Platform:
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Document sharing facility - a facility to share documents between members of the Boreal Steering Groups has been created on the Platform The Expert Directory includes 194 listed expert profiles. The Organization Directory includes 816 listed organisational profiles. 445 documents relevant to the process uploaded to the Platform. All of which can be searched using the advanced search functionality. The Events Calendar lists 56 events. 30 of the events are directly linked to the Natura 2000 Biogeographical process, but also include other events filtered for relevance and interest to Natura 2000 practitioners. 37 news items have been published highlighting events, publications and developments significant for the networking process. The Natura 2000 Platform forum has 65 registered members and over 50,000 views at the various posts on the forum. Average of approximately 1,200 unique visitors per month for the Platform.
Visit the Natura 2000 Communication Platform: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/platform/index_en.htm
Subscribe to the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process Newsletter
Eurosite guidelines In 2015 we published four sets of guidelines that provide site managers with guidance on key issues identified by our members: Communicating wilderness management techniques in Natura 2000 sites and other European natural areas This communication strategy aims to help site managers across Europe communicate with a range of stakeholders (local communities, politicians, the general public, scientists and nature conservationists) about rewilding and the conflicts that this management strategy can give rise to. It provides a useful introduction to communicating rewilding and non-intervention management and is a valuable tool for those who are considering or are already implementing these strategies. Read the Eurosite Guidelines on communicating wilderness management techniques: http://issuu.com/ eurosite
Integrating hunting practices with nature conservation management This Advice Paper gathers together key recommendations and practical steps for the integration of hunting practices with the management of Natura 2000 sites and other natural areas and provides a useful introduction to the topic that will give site managers the confidence to work together with hunters and hunting organisations. Read the Advice Paper: http://issuu.com/eurosite
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Working internationally with wetlands to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change for the benefit of human wellbeing This guidance document is based on the discussions that took place during the workshop Creating a Climate for Change in Montpellier, France (10-11 December 2014). These discussions were compiled into strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that need to be taken into account when designing and implementing strategies to adapt wetlands to climate change. The ecosystem services that wetlands provide are also mentioned, such as the role of wetlands in protecting Europe’s citizens from the consequences of climate change. This document provides site managers across Europe with a useful introduction to wetlands and climate change. Read the climate change and wetland guidelines: http://issuu.com/eurosite
Eurosite Twinning guidelines Twinning has always been a part of Eurosite’s work. In 1987 – the European Year of the Environment – the European Natural Sites Twinning Programme was launched with the financial support of the European Commission and the cooperation of nature conservation management organisations from across Europe. Eurosite was born from this Twinning Programme, and since then we have gone on to oversee the twinning of many sites across Europe. Although the concept of Twinning has been known for a long time in the context of twinning different European towns, in recent years the idea of twinning natural sites has gained traction and the European Commission has expressed a particular interest in twinning. In 1998 Eurosite published a set of twinning guidelines that provide site managers with a step-by-step process for twinning their site. In 2015, we decided it was time to review these guidelines and published a new, updated version. Read the Eurosite Twinning Guidelines: http://issuu.com/eurosite
Priority Activity 2: Training events – at various levels to suit Members’ needs This priority activity is very much linked to Objective 1, priority 1 (see page 4) ‘Workshops and field meetings on key issues’. Although the subject of webinars was discussed, we were unable to develop any new training opportunities during 2015. Eurosite did offer the training course ‘English Language for Environmentalists’ in collaboration with Eurosite member Aten for people working in conservation, environmental education, landscape management or tourism, who wanted to improve their English language skills. The training was scheduled for June 2015, but unfortunately the course had to be cancelled due to low registration numbers.
Priority Activity 3: Technical information about funding, project management and legislative changes Through our website, social media and monthly eNewsletter we share the latest information about funding and site management, as well as updates on legislative changes and developments in European policy. In 2015, one of the key legislative processes taking place in the European Commission was the Birds and Habitats Directives Fitness Check. Throughout 2015, through our membership in the European Habitats Forum and our attendance at high-level meetings in Brussels, we have been able to keep the members informed about the latest developments in the Fitness Check process. Recognising the importance of having the right tools and channels to share information with the Eurosite Members and the wider European nature conservation community, we began the process of developing a new website in 2015, which was launched in 2016. This new website will allow Eurosite not only to present information in a more attractive, accessible way, but will also include new resources, such as a thematic guidance section, which will include guidelines, publications, websites, key stakeholders and videos on a range of key Eurosite themes. This will be developed over the coming years to become a one-stop-shop for Europe’s site managers.
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Objective 3: Advocacy for site-based nature – Eurosite provides the advocacy that is required at the EU level to provide political and practical support for site-based nature conservation in Europe Priority Activity 1: Representation for Members at European level to provide a role in policy making In 2015, Eurosite attended a number of key meetings and events in Brussels in order to represent the members and ensure that the members remain up-to-date about the latest nature-related policy processes: •
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EC Environmental NGOs focus group meeting on the Fitness Check (Brussels): In March, Eurosite’s Network Project Manager Jaume Tormo attended this meeting where the focus group explained the Fitness Check (purpose, process, methodology and timeline) and engaged in an in-depth discussion on key issues, challenges or achievements related to the most relevant questions or evaluation categories (effectiveness, efficiency, coherence, relevance, added value) of the Fitness Check; European Habitats Forum meeting: In April, Jaume Tormo attended a meeting of the European Habitats Forum in Brussels; COR Expert Group meeting on Birds and Habitats directives: In May Patrick Nuvelstijn (Coordinator European and International Affairs at Natuurmonumenten, Netherlands, and frequent participant at Eurosite’s Council meetings) represented Eurosite at the Committee of the Regions’ Territorial Impact Assessment workshop on the Birds and Habitats; Directives Expert Group on the Management of Natura 2000: In April Eurosite Board member Anita Prosser attended the 12th meeting of the Expert Group on the Management of Natura 2000 to deliver a presentation about Eurosite’s work on twinning. This was done following a request from the European Commission for Eurosite to share our knowledge and experience on this topic. In November Eurosite’s President, Stefan Versweyveld, attended the 13th meeting of the Expert Group. During the meeting Stefan presented the first results from our Natura 2000 Monitoring workshop (October 2015). Nature Directives Fitness Check Conference: Eurosite Board members David Parker and Anita Prosser attended this high-level conference, which took place in Brussels in November. During the conference the European Commission presented the draft findings of the Fitness Check. Informal meeting of EU Biodiversity and Nature Directors: In November an Informal Meeting of EU Biodiversity and Nature Directors took place in Luxembourg. The European Habitats Forum (EHF) was invited to attend this meeting and as a member of the EHF, Eurosite was represented at the meeting by Patrick Nuvelstijn (Natuurmonumenten). Green Week: In June Jaume Tormo attended the Green Week in Brussels, where Eurosite shared a stand with the LIFE project LandLife.
Priority Activity 2: Timely information to Members about what is happening at EU level Through the Eurosite communication channels (website, social media, and eNewsletter) we are able to provide our members with regular updates about developments in European policy. We also ensure that we send a report back to members about meetings and events attended in Brussels. This provides many of our members, who do not have the resources to attend such events, with a valuable service.
Priority Activity 3: Effective communication channels with the European Commission, working in both directions, on policy and funding Eurosite has been a partner of the European Commission ever since our founding in 1989. The emphasis of this cooperation has always been on building a two-way relationship with the European Commission. In 2015 we published three sets of guidelines, which we shared with the relevant personnel at the European Commission. We also held a workshop on monitoring, which was attended by Angelika Rubin, Policy Officer at the European Commission. We also see attending meetings and European events as a key communication channel with the European Commission. Our attendance at such meetings is facilitated in particular through our participation in the European Habitats Forum (EHF). The European Commission considers the European Habitats Forum to be a representative of the EU environmental NGOs. Being part of EHF provides Eurosite and its members with the opportunity to be aware of what other NGOs are doing and to be heard in Europe. The Expert Group on the Management of Natura 2000 also serves as an important channel between Eurosite and the European Commission. In 2015, Eurosite was able to present at both Expert Group meetings, providing the network with a direct channel to the European Commission and a platform for the work that the network does. Through these meetings, we have been able to promote our work on twinning, and the European Commission has expressed an interest in working with Eurosite further on twinning.
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Objective 4: Building a strong future – Eurosite is a resilient organisation with the human and financial resources necessary to deliver the expectations of the members Priority Activity 1: Work with ECNC and other partners to develop funding and project opportunities In Spring 2015 Eurosite applied for Erasmus+ funding together with Friends of Eurosite Migratory Bird for People (MBP). The proposed project “Advancing Early Career Prospects in the Environment Education Sector” (AEPEES) aimed to develop an online, distance learning course for the delivery of on-site wetlands education. Unfortunately our project was not selected for funding. In October 2015 the Eurosite Board and Council and the ECNC Board met in Barcelona, Spain, to discuss our Memorandum of Understanding in depth and to explore possible project ideas, such as the Crowdsourcing Network for Nature.
Priority Activity 2: Secure and develop present funding: membership fees and EU funding Compared to 2014 Eurosite received slightly less membership fee income in 2015. We welcomed new associate members, but sadly also received a couple of resignations. Unfortunately we had also been unsuccessfull in securing EU NGO Funding for 2015. During 2015 Eurosite therefore approached different funders to diversify funding. Our Monitoring workshop in Barcelona, for example, received financial support from D.G. d’Acció Cívica i Comunitària - Generalitat de Catalunya, and the A. G. Leventis Foundation, for which we are very grateful. To increase our income and strenghten our cash flow Eurosite also approached Stichting DOEN from the Dutch Postcode Lotery. They were unfortunately not in a position to finance our Natura 2000 Products Campaign, but luckily we could take our idea forward in 2016 with our EU NGO Specific Grant Agreement. Eurosite successfully applied for an EU NGO Framework Partnership Agreement for the years 2016 and 2017, based on the new Eurosite Strategy 2015 - 2020, which we wrote together with our members.
Priority Activity 3: Create clear financial projections (1-5 years) and build a financial reserve to improve cash flow Eurosite’s main aim in 2015 was to closely monitor the budget and cash flow and to review any outstanding membership fees. As a result of this review, the Board decided that a one-off large write-off of old membership fees was needed. As this decision resulted in a small loss of -€8,718 for 2015, Eurosite was unable to increase its financial reserve. Eurosite aims to participate in multi-annual contracts, such as the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process service contracts, which will help to make clearer financial projections for years to come.
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4. The Eurosite Network - as of December 2015 The Eurosite Board and Council members were elected for a period of three years at the Annual General Meeting in Haarlem, on 16 September 2014. Kazimierz Rabski from the Society for the Coast (EUCC-Poland) was first elected Council member, after which he joined the Board in November 2014. In January 2015 Stefan Versweyveld from Natuurpunt replaced Henkjan Kievit as Eurosite President.
Eurosite Board
President Stefan Versweyveld Natuurpunt Belgium
Secretary
Treasurer
David Parker Individual member
Fedde Koster Non-member
United Kingdom
Netherlands
Fabrice Bernard Conservatoire du Littoral
Sergi Marí Xarxa de Custòdia del Territori, xct
Anita Prosser Non-member
Kazimierz Rabski Society for the Coast (EUCC-Poland)
Artemis Yiordamli Terra Cypria - the Cyprus Conservation Foundation
France
Spain
United Kingdom
Poland
Cyprus
On behalf of all members of the network, our grateful thanks are extended to them for their service on the Board.
Eurosite Council Matti Määttä
Metsähallitus Natural Heritage Services
Finland
Xavier Gayte
Aten
France
Jean Jalbert
Tour du Valat - Centre de recherche pour la conservation des zones humides méditerranéennes
France
Lydia Alvanou Authority for the Management of the Protected Area of Axios Loudias Aliakmonas Estuaries Greece Harry Koenders Staatsbosbeheer Netherlands Teo Wams
Natuurmonumenten (supported by Patrick Nuvelstijn)
Netherlands
Viorica Bisca
Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Authority
Romania
Pilar Rodríguez
Xarxa de Custòdia del Territori, xct
Spain
Josefin Olsson
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency
Sweden
Andrew Bachell
Scottish Natural Heritage
United Kingdom
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Eurosite Members Belgium -- Natuurpunt Croatia -- Zumberak - Samoborsko gorje Nature Park Cyprus -- Terra Cypria, the Cyprus Conservation Foundation Czech Republic -- The Krkonose Mountains National Park Finland -- City of Turku, Environmental and City Planning Department -- Natural Heritage Services of Metsähallitus France -- Agence des aires marines protégées -- Aten -- Conseil Général de la Gironde -- Conservatoire du Littoral -- Eden 62 -- Parc Naturel Régional des Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin -- Parcs Nationaux de France -- Tour du Valat - Centre de recherche pour la conservation des zones humides méditerranéennes Germany -- Landesamt für Umwelt, Gesundheit und Verbraucherschutz Brandenburg (LUGV) Greece -- Authority for the Management of the Protected Area of Axios Loudias Aliakmonas Estuaries -- Hunting Federation of Macedonia & Thrace (KOMATH) -- Management Body of Samaria (White Mountains) National Park Hungary -- Ministry of Rural Development -- Pro Vértes Public Foundation Ireland -- National Parks and Wildlife Service Italy
--
WWF Oasi
Lithuania -- Lithuanian Fund for Nature Luxembourg -- Ministère du Développement Durable, département de l’environnement
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Netherlands -- Brabants Landschap -- Crossbill Guides Foundation -- ECNC-European Centre for Nature Conservation -- Foundation for Restoring European Ecosystems (FREE Nature) -- Natuurmonumenten -- Staatsbosbeheer -- Vanellus Vanellus Norway -- Stiftelsen iNasjonalparker Poland -- Kampinos National Park -- Society for the Coast (EUCC-Poland) Romania -- Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Authority (DDBRA) Slovenia -- Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Nature Conservation Spain -- Department of Agriculture, Husbandry, Fishing and Natural Environment (Government of Catalonia) -- Fundació Catalunya - La Pedrera, Àrea de Territori i Medi Ambient -- Lliga Per A la Defensa Del Patrimoni Natural (DEPANA) -- Xarxa de Custòdia del Territori, xct Sweden -- The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency United Kingdom -- A Rocha International -- Conservation Management System Consortium -- Forest Enterprise Scotland -- Natural England -- Natural Resources Wales -- Scottish Natural Heritage -- The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) -- The Wildlife Trusts Individual members -- Nicole Nowicki, France -- Irene Bouwma, Netherlands -- Roelof Heringa, Netherlands -- Hans Hofland, Netherlands -- Nel Sangers, Netherlands -- Richard van der Pols, Netherlands -- Jovita García Collado, Spain -- David Parker, United Kingdom
Friends of Eurosite The Friends of Eurosite membership category is intended for organisations or networks that Eurosite works closely with, but who are not able to join the network. We welcomed our first Friend of Eurosite, the Migratory Birds for People programme, in 2015. Staatsbosbeheer, Wetlands International, Wetland Link International and Länsstyrelserna initiated the Migratory Birds for People programme in 2009, in order to connect a network of wetland visitor centres along the East Atlantic Flyway. The purpose of the network is the exchange of knowledge and experience between the participating centres and thus to enhance communication with the public about the importance of wetland sites along the East Atlantic Flyway.
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5. Report of the Treasurer 2015 The year 2015 was a transition year. In 2014, we applied for an EU NGO Operating Grant for 2015, but unfortunately we were not able to secure funding. During 2015 we continued our involvement in the EC’s Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process through two service contracts, led by Eurosite member ECNC. The contract “Maintenance of the Communication Platform and Support to the New (Natura 2000) Biogeographical Process” runs from 2014 - 2016. The new contract “Support for the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process” started in January 2015 and will run till the end of 2017. Unfortunately, this income together with our membership fee income proved insufficient to cover Eurosite’s running costs. On behalf of the Eurosite Board I would therefore like to express our sincere gratitude towards Eurosite member Natuurpunt for their additional € 10,000 donation. During 2015 our resources were used to develop our new Eurosite Strategy 2015 - 2020, launch several publications, modernise the Eurosite website, (co-)organise events, develop our first Friend of Eurosite agreement, and follow developments in Brussels, especially relating to the Fitness Check of the Birds and Habitats Directives. In 2015 Eurosite unfortunately incurred a small loss of -€8,718. This was the result of a thorough look into our old outstanding membership fees. The Board decided that a one-off large write-off of old membership fees was needed (€22,768). I am happy to report that for 2016 we have better prospects. During 2015 Eurosite successfully applied for an EU Framework Partnership Agreement for 2016 - 2017, which enables us to apply for EU NGO Funding for the years 2016 and 2017. For 2016 we were granted funding, which supports the implementation of our Eurosite Strategy 2015 - 2020, and in particular stronger cooperation between members. The European Commission is expected to decide on our application for 2017 funding in the last quarter of 2016. Nevertheless, it remains important to maintain and grow the membership and to continue applying for additional funding sources that will support the further implementation of our mission. During 2016 Eurosite has therefore submitted several proposals for funding and we are working on our new membership strategies. We look forward to the future!
Fedde Koster Treasurer, Eurosite
Table 1: Balance as of 31 December 2015 31-12-2015
31-12-2015
31-12-2014
€3,606
€12,324
Trade creditors and trade credits
€2,219
€20,135
Taxes and social securities
€1,430
€3,524
€45,161
€51,609
€52,416
€ 87,592
31-12-2014
ASSETS
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Fixed assets
Equity Equity
Tangible fixed assets Furniture and office equipment
€1,017
€727 Current liabilities
Other liablilities and accruals and deferred income Current assets Trade and other receivables Trade receivables
€5,122
€18,729
Other receivables, deferred assets
€17,397
€38,121
Cash
€28,880
€30,015
TOTAL ASSETS
€52,416
€ 87,592 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
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Table 2: Profit and loss account for the year 2015 1 / 2 / 3 2015 realisation
2015 realisation
EXPENDITURE
INCOME
EC NBP service contract 2 (NBP2)
€15,931
EC NBP service contract 2 (NBP2)
€15,931
EC NBP service contract 3 (NBP3)
€8,660
EC NBP service contract 3 (NBP3)
€8,660
Sub-total project / service contract expenses
Wages and salaries Wages and salaries attributed to projects
€24,591 Sub-total project / service contract revenue
€90,837
Membership and registration fees
- €11,285
€2,383
Other project revenues
Accommodation expenses
€6,311
Other revenue
Office expenses
€7,448 €24,413
General expenses
€13,914
Sub-total general operating expenses
€134,021 Sub-total other revenue
Bank charges
€396
Depreciation
€429
Sub-total financial expenses TOTAL EXPENDITURE RESULT 2015
€116,702
Sub-total membership / registration fees
Other labour expenses
Activity and event expenses
€24,591
€116,702
-€574 €10,000
€9,426
€825 €159,437 TOTAL INCOME
€150,719
-€8,718
Proposed resolutions 2015: As Treasurer, I would like to ask the Eurosite members to consider the following resolutions for the financial year 2015 and to carry them unanimously during the Annual General Meeting 2016, Serres, Greece, 10 November 2016: Resolution n° 1 The Eurosite Council, having listened to the reading of the Financial Report of the annual accounts for the financial year ended upon 31 December 2015, approves the report of the annual accounts of the financial year which states a result of -8,718.00 Euro. On 31 December 2015, Eurosite therefore has a reserve of 3,606.00 Euro. In consequence, the General Assembly discharges without reserve the Administrative Council of its responsibility in the execution of its mandate for the financial year that has been closed. Resolution n° 2 The General Assembly confers all powers to the bearer of a copy or an extract of the present record of its decision in order to carry out all legal formalities.
1 2 3
Part of the membership fee income has been assigned to project activities as required co-funding from own resources. The figure stated represents the membership fee and registration fees income which was not assigned to project activities. NBP2 is our working title. The service contract is titled “Maintenance of the Communication Platform and Support to the New (Natura 2000) Biogeographical Process” (Contract n° 07 0307/2013/SER/666771/B.3) NBP3 is our working title. The service contract is titled “Support for the Natura 2000 Biogeographical Process” (Contract n° 070202/2015/714450/SER/ ENV.B.3)
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Contact us Visiting address Postal address Eurosite Eurosite Reitseplein 6 Postbus 90154 5037 AA Tilburg 5000 LG Tilburg The Netherlands The Netherlands tel: email:
+31 (0)13 59 44 400 info@eurosite.org
http://www.eurosite.org
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Eurosite is working to create a Europe where nature is cared for, protected, restored and valued by all We do this by providing practitioners with opportunities to network and exchange experience on practical nature management. We are a network of site managers, non-governmental and governmental organisations, and individuals and organisations committed to our vision. Our members are based across Europe – from the Atlantic islands to the Black Sea; and from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean. Nature knows no boundaries: we believe the future protection and conservation of Europe’s nature will only be achieved through international cooperation. Interested in what we do? Take a look at our website to find out more and consider becoming a member. Together we can make a difference.
www.eurosite.org Eurosite | Postbus 90154, 5000 LG Tilburg, Netherlands | info@eurosite.org
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