40th Meeting of the Ramsar Standing Committee

Resolution X.10 task

2009-2012 estimated costs (CHF)

Comments

STRP Support Service

Redevelop STRP Support Service web-based discussion forum system in user-friendly software platform

35,000

2009 top priority task

TWA1 Regional networking

1.3 Support and develop STRP NFP networks

20,500

2009 top priority task

TWA2 Strategic & emerging issues

2.3 Wetlands and extractive industries - guidance review

32,000

2009 top priority task

2.4 Wetlands and energy issues – scoping review

10,000

2.6 Wetlands and poverty reduction – determine scope of guidance

27,500

2.10 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) – continuing review

20,000

2009 top priority task

3.1 MA response options – further advice

9,000

3.2 Wise Use case studies - dissemination

20,000

TWA3 inventory, assessment, monitoring, reporting

4.2 Global Wetland Observing System (G-WOS) - development

[0]

2009 top priority task. Costs to be determined following initial scoping work in 2009

4.3 Ramsar data and information needs – further elaboration

10,000

4.4 Describing ecological character – additional guidance

15,000

4.6 Detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character  – further guidance

[0]

Costs to be determined following initial scoping work in 2009

4.8 & 4.11 Indicators of effectiveness – operationalising the 1st tranche

86,000

2009 top priority task

4.9 Indicators of effectiveness – development of the 2nd tranche

14,000

TWA4 wetlands and human health

5.1 Wetlands and human health – advice and guidance

48,250

2009 top priority task

TWA5 wetlands and climate change

6.1 Wetlands and climate change – further review and updated guidance

32,500

2009 top priority task

6.2 Climate change and wetlands mitigation and adaptation – collaborative activities

10,000

TWA6 wetlands and water resource management

7.3 Wetlands and water quality - guidance

20,000

2009 top priority task

7.4 Wetlands and water storage interactions – review and guidance

25000

7.5 Water resources management in dry and sub-humid lands – guidance

20000

7.7 Ramsar water and wetlands Resolutions – review of consolidation options

0

7.x [new High Priority Task] “Strategy for mainstreaming natural wetland infrastructure into IWRM”

15,000

2009 top priority task

TWA7 Wetlands of International Importance

8.4 Strategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance – review and harmonization of Criteria, targets and guidance

15,000

2009 top priority task. Now merged as an 8.4/4.5/8.3 grouped task

8.6 Biogeographic regionalization schemes – availability and further assessment

25,000

8.7 Assessing under-representation in the Ramsar List – advice on gaps, targets and data and information sources

15,000

8.8 Reservoirs and other human-made wetlands – ecological significance review and designation guidance

20,000

4.5 Harmonization of Ramsar Information Sheet (RIS) - options review

20,000

TWA8 Wetland management - restoration, mitigation, compensation

9.1 Mitigation and compensation for wetland loss – guidance

20,000

2009 top priority task

9.2 Wetland restoration – updating and expansion of guidance

75,000

TWA9 Wetlands & agriculture

2.1 Agriculture and wetlands - guidelines

13,250

6.3 Biofuels - guidance

39,500

2009 top priority task. This task proposed as additional High Priority task by STRP15

TWA10 CEPA

10.3 Contracting Party training and capacity-building in using Ramsar guidance

15000
(development only; implementation costs additional)

2009 top priority task

10.1 Optimal of presentation of Ramsar guidance - further advice

[0]

2009 top priority task. May need post-2009 funding following further scoping

1.4 CEPA assistance to other TWAs and products

15,000

Resolution X.10 task

CHF

TWA2: 2.9 wetlands & tourism - scoping review

6,000

TWA2: 2.11 waterbird flyways initiatives - knowledge sharing

85,000

TWA3: 4.1 status of wetland inventories

5,000

TWA3: 4.7 Montreux Record questionnaire redesign

7,000

TWA3: 4.10 Convention monitoring and assessment

5,000

TWA10: 10.2 Preparation of outreach materials based on STRP substantive guidances

10,000

Resolution X.10 task

CHF

Comments

STRP Support Service re-development

35,000

Redevelopment and implementation in user-friendly software

TWA2: task 2.10

10,000

Wetland-dependent wildlife diseases review

TWA3: task 4.8

38,000

Effectiveness indicators – further workshops and report preparation

TWA4: task 5.1

5,250

Human health writing workshops

TWA5: task 6.1

5,000

Preparation of review paper on carbon and wetlands for publication

TWA6: tasks 7.4/7.[x]

20,000

Initial work on wetlands and water quality guidance and preparation of a “Strategy for mainstreaming natural wetland infrastructure into IWRM”

TWA7: tasks 8.4/4.5/8.3

15,000

Review and workshop for reision of Strategic Framework guidance

TWA8: task 9.1

20,000

Review of current practices for mitigation and compensation for wetland loss

TWA9: task 6.3

2,000

Initial scoping review for wetlands and biofuels

TWA10: tasks 10.3/1.4

12,500

CEPA expert participation in STRP TWA guidance development workshops

Thematic Work Area name:

Regional networking

Thematic lead STRP member:

Rebecca D’Cruz

Co-lead(s):

Task No. 1.3: STRP National Focal Points - support and network development

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Continue to strengthen the role and participation of STRP National Focal Points (NFPs) in the work of the Panel, inter alia by:
i)       enhancing the methods for and frequency of regular contacts between Panel Members and STRP NFPs;
ii)       identifying opportunities and mechanisms for holding intersessional regional or subregional meetings of STRP NFPs;
iii)      compiling improved information on the interests and expertise of all STRP NFPs;
iv)      engaging the STRP NFPs in the identification of relevant national experts who may, in relation to specific individual STRP tasks, be able to review draft documents and make other inputs as appropriate;
v)      at the request of a given Administrative Authority, involving its STRP NFP in monitoring and evaluating any SGF projects in that country;
vi)      keeping the terms of reference and modus operandi of STRP NFPs under review, with a view to identifying potential future improvements and to providing any further guidance to STRP NFPs that may be required.
(Resolution VIII.28; Resolution IX.11, Resolution IX.2 task 4, Resolution X.9)

Task lead person:

Rebecca D’Cruz

Task force members

Regional network members, Rob McInnes (SWS), Ania G. (GWP), Monica Zavagli (STRP support officer)
(working in consultation with the Senior Regional Advisors)

Type of product/output(s):

1. Simple diagram to illustrate the tasks of the STRP NFP – summary of the NFP brochure 2007.
2. Web-based FAQs based on Terms of Reference of the STRP National Focal Points – what, how and examples or info sources
3. List of specific tasks in the STRP work programme which STRP NFPs are asked to provide input to, and/or identify experts in-country who could assist.
4. A database of in-country experts. Lead: Rebecca Lee

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

CHF 20,500 (to support participation of Regional Network Members in relevant meetings; potential membership to the Society for Wetland Scientists).
Note: Does not include participation of Regional Network Members in meetings of the STRP NFPs at the regional level, which we hope will be funded by the host country.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Develop a simple diagram to illustrate the tasks of the STRP NFP, and make this available via the Ramsar web site and the STRP Support Service. Lead: Philippe G., working with Chris Prietto Timeline: 30 June 2009
2. Develop a web-based FAQs based on ToR of the STRP NFPs – what, how and examples or info sources. Leads: Randy M. & Montse C. Timeline: 30 June 2009
3. Following STRP 15, develop a task list and send this out to STRP NFPs with request to provide input and/or identify experts who can provide input Lead: Rebecca D’Cruz Timeline: 31 May 2009 for first list; and ongoing
4. Compile information on in-country experts into a searchable database for STRP’s use. Lead: Rebecca Lee Timeline: Ongoing
5. Regional meetings of the STRP NFPs – to work with the Secretariat to pin down the dates. Lead: Rebecca D’Cruz
6) Continue development of the programme of work for the triennium including key events, products, timelines to allow planning.

Additional comments/information

Link to TWA 10: CEPA
Note: There is an accompanying document which spells out in greater detail the operational aspects of delivering the actions above.

Thematic Work Area name:

Strategic, emerging & ongoing issues

Thematic lead STRP member:

Heather MacKay

Co-lead(s):

TWA leads.

Task No. 1.1: Strategic scientific and technical advice

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Provide both proactive and reactive advice to the Convention on relevant strategic scientific and technical matters, including overall progress with scientific and technical aspects of the implementation of COP Resolutions, trends, emerging issues, and other priority matters requiring expert review (see also tasks listed in section 2 of this annex).
(Resolution IX.2 tasks 2 & 3)

Task lead person:

Chair

Task force members

STRP

Type of product/output(s):

Current STRP processes.

Task No. 1.2: Ongoing advisory functions

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Continue to provide advice under the following functions as and when requested:

i)       advising, when requested, on Ramsar site designation and management issues, including on Article 3.2 reports concerning change in ecological character;
ii)       advising the Secretariat on requests from Contracting Parties for removing Ramsar sites from the Montreux Record of sites facing damaging change in ecological character;
iii)      advising on any request from a Contracting Party to participate in the activities of a different Ramsar region to that which it is assigned under the regional categorization of the Convention;
iv)      assisting Contracting Parties and bilateral development agencies in screening, developing and evaluating wetland projects;
v)      receiving progress reports and advising on future needs and developments of the Ramsar Sites Information Service; and
vi)      ensuring cooperation, exchange of information, and coordination of activities related to wetlands science, where appropriate, with the scientific and technical subsidiary bodies (and their related processes) of other MEAs and relevant regional fora, through actions defined in Joint Work Plans, through the Chairs of Scientific Advisory Bodies (CSAB) process and by other means, with a view inter alia to: promoting cross-adoption and endorsement of principles, guidance, resolutions; sharing work programmes in order to identify common areas, gaps and opportunities for joint work; and improving scientific collaboration in general.
(Resolution VIII.28; Resolution IX.11, Resolution IX.2 task 4, Resolution X.11, Resolution X.1: strategies 1.5, 3.1)

Task lead person:

Chair

Task force members

STRP

Type of product/output(s):

As appropriate.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

As required. Need to consider resources necessary for some activities in this task, such as Advisory Missions, participation in international processes, ad hoc assistance to Parties.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

As required.
Consider adding sub-task:
(vii) Provide technical advice and guidance to Parties on ad hoc basis, through direct discussion, Support Service, Standing Committee discussions, Ramsar Advisory Missions, regional meetings, COP technical briefings.

• STRP Chair, David Pritchard and DSG to draft short guidelines on handling MR requests to STRP, and possibly other ad hoc tech assistance requests, until MR procedures have been reviewed in TWA3 task.
• Regional networking TWA will develop tasks related to interactions and support at regional level.
• CEPA TWA (Christine Prietto) to co-ordinate planning of STRP scientific and technical contributions to COP11.

Additional comments/information

Links to CEPA (strategy) and Secretariat support (logistics and budget)
Consider external sources of funding for advisory activities requiring funding, such as Advisory Missions.
Involve NFPs and regional networkers in advisory missions.

Task No. 1.5: Review of draft COP Resolutions

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Review and comment on proposals from Contracting Parties for COP Resolutions with scientific or technical content, and provide this advice to the Standing Committee and COP.
(Resolution IX.2 task 1)

Task lead person:

Chair

Task force members

TWA leads and task leads.

Type of product/output(s):

Advice as needed.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

No.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Via Support Service.

Additional comments/information

Task No. 2.3: Wetlands and extractive industries – guidance review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Working with UNEP, IUCN, and other relevant organizations:
i)       Review available technical guidance on assessing, avoiding, minimizing and mitigating the direct and indirect impacts of extractive industries on wetlands in the exploration, development, operation, closure and post-closure phases, taking into account the potential for adoption of new or emerging extraction technologies and paying particular attention to restoration options, and
ii)       on the basis of this review, to make recommendations regarding the suitability of available technical guidance and the need, if any, for development of new technical guidance.
(STRP14, Resolution X.26)

Task lead person:

MacKay/Stroud

Task force members

AEWA, IUCN, ICMM?, UBC

Type of product/output(s):

Principal end users
AEWA and Ramsar AAs.
Eventual outcomes:
Ramsar and AEWA AAs:

• have sufficient information to allow them to identify sites likely to be vulnerable to or impacted by mining activities ;
• have access to technical guidance to allow them to determine scope of EIA for mining applications, review permit applications, and if appropriate recommend permit conditions for all phases of the mining cycle.

Products of this task:

• Methodology for desktop identification of wetlands likely to be vulnerable to mining impacts/activities.
• Strategic review of technological, economic & political drivers and how this might affect mining & hence need for new guidance.
• Review of available guidance on managing impacts of mining/extractive industries.
• Recommendations on new guidance needed.
• Possible new guidance

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Yes.
Suggest joint funding by AEWA and Ramsar, with targeted voluntary contribution from UK already committed.
Total estimated CHF32 000.
1. Develop & test assessment methodology on a flyway using available public domain data – approx CHF 17 000 incl prof time, travel & accomm (assume UBC Vancouver venue, 5 people, 3 days) and 3 days prep & writeup
2. Review emerging technologies & drivers – approx CHF6 000 for contracted expert.
3. Collate & review existing guidance and scope additional work if needed – approx CHF9000 if student used.
4. Possible new guidance – cost unknown at this point.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. FromAEWA TC task formulation: Undertake a desk study to identify sites/areas, especially wetlands, likely to be vulnerable to the impacts of the extraction of minerals and other geological products. This will aim to identify hotspots for mineral resources, and overlay that with information on site/wetland distributions. Mining and geological information will be obtained from one of several mining intelligence groups.

• Small group workshop (4-5 people) to develop and test, on a selected flyway, a possible vulnerability assessment framework that incorporates information from mapped mineral resources for selected commodities, economic & political risk assessments for the flyway area from mining industry information, WOW critical sites information for waterbirds (as surrogate for wetlands information). If this approach shows promise, then seek additional funding to develop it further to (a) regional or global level desktop assessment or (b) in-country or in-flyway assessment methodology. (late 2009?) CHF17000

2. FromAEWA and Ramsar task formulation: Review emerging/changing technologies as well as economic and regulatory drivers, to ascertain whether substantial shifts in mining sector activities are likely, either in terms of how mining is conducted or where it is conducted.

• Short but strategic review paper to inform review of guidance. (June-July 2009) CHF6000

3. FromAEWA and Ramsar task formulation: Review existing guidance for managing impacts of mining/extractive activities in all phases from exploration to post-closure. CHF9000

• Collate and first-cut review of available guidance in collaboration with ICMM (?)- student task at UBC. (July-August 2009)
• Review guidance to suitability for Ramsar & AEWA needs (Sep-Dec 2009)
• Provide recommendations as to whether additional/new guidance needed and at what levels (policy, regulatory, technical); whether guidance needed for all aspects or only to fill gaps for selected mining phases/commodities/wetland types, or whether a guide to guidance might be appropriate; how to integrate with Ramsar’s existing EIA guidance. Develop detailed terms of reference for further work if needed. Discuss and agree on ToR at mid-term meetings. (Jan-Mar 2010)

4. Possibly develop new guidance if needed – cost not known.

Additional comments/information

• Task corresponds directly with AEWA TC task on mining/extractives, approved at MOP4. Should be conducted jointly with Ramsar STRP and AEWA TC. Will need to clarify objectives and needs of both before starting work.
• Links to STRP Task 2.4 (review of energy sector issues), especially with regard to oil & gas and uranium mining.
• Possibly links to task 2.5 (economic review) but links to reformulated 2.5 are less clear now.
• Consider feasibility of addressing the following in guidance:
  • Scale of mining activity to cover from artisanal through to large commercial operations
  • Include offshore extractive activities
  • Address processing, storage and distribution of products, not just extraction
  • Note influence of political and economic factors in decisions regarding extractive industries. Clarify scope of technical guidance – tech only, regulation, policy and economic issues should be addressed in EIA guidance (refer to and ensure consistency with EIA guidance)
  • Note influence of lending and financial policies on mining/extractive industries.
  • Include best practices and guidance from corporate sector, technical as well as corporate social responsibility aspects, recognizing that mining companies are also actively involved in managing and restoring wetlands.
• Target audience: include countries whose governments or private sector bodies invest in or undertake mining activities in other countries, not just AAs in countries where mining is actually happening (consider whether to address this in guidance or in a Resolution).
• In undertaking this task, involve the corporate sector since corporate social responsibility is important in supporting implementation of guidance (also as potential funders of the work)
• Will require CEPA activities: some form of capacity building for Parties, and to disseminate products and information to groups in other flyway areas through AEWA..
• Key messages should reinforce the need for effective regulation and oversight – link to EIA and SEA guidance and CSR guidance.
• Regional networkers to assist in communicating issues and information, and in identifying priorities to be addressed.

Task No. 2.4: Wetlands and energy issues

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Conduct a scoping review of the implications for wetlands of energy generation and distribution activities, covering both the conventional and renewable energy sectors, having regard to issues concerning climate change and wetlands, linking as appropriate to work done in relation to the task on extractive industries defined separately in the present Annex above, and taking account of up-to-date evolving policy perspectives in these sectors and on issues of energy security in general.
(STRP14)

Task lead person:

MacKay (will identify suitable task lead with assistance of Global Water Partnership)

Task force members

UNIDO/IAEA/IEA/IHA for energy expertise (Bob Williams at UNIDO can help us to identify suitable experts)
Wetlands expertise from STRP.

Type of product/output(s):

Scoping review – possibly Ramsar Technical Report.
Target audience STRP, Contracting Parties.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Yes.
15 days for contracted expert(s)?
CHF9000 (starting 2010 after mid term workshops)

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

The objective of the paper would be to help Parties to understand how energy policy at national, regional and global levels might influence wetlands, and should assist Ramsar AAs to communicate with their counterparts in the energy sector and to be able to participate meaningfully in policy debates related to energy policy issues in their country or region. A secondary objective might be to provide information and understanding to enable the Convention to raise the profile of wetlands to ensure they are considered in international energy debates.

The energy sector comprises several sub-sectors, each of which may influence wetlands in different ways: including fossil fuels, hydropower, nuclear, wind, biofuels, tidal, solar & other. The scoping review should:

• characterize these sectors and identify the likely scope and nature of their impacts on wetlands, depending on how these different energy strategies are incorporated into overall national/regional/global energy policy;
• provide a snapshot overview of current energy policy drivers and possible future scenarios for energy policy;
• provide recommendations on whether sectoral guidance is needed for managing the impacts on wetlands of different energy policies and different energy production and transfer systems.

Additional comments/information

• Links to task 2.3 (extractive industries) and to 6.3 (biofuels – 6.3i and 6.3v).
• Indirect link to climate change (6.2 mitigation and adaptation) with respect to influence of climate change negotiations on energy policy.
• Information from WWF renewable energy program and hydropower program – contact Lifeng Li for information.
• WI also working in this area – will have relevant information.
• CC GAP has information that is relevant.

Task No. 2.6: Wetlands and poverty eradication – guidance scope

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Working with the IOPs and other interested organizations and networks to review the framework for actions set out in Resolution IX.14 and Resolution X.28, and on the basis of this to develop proposals for the most appropriate form and specific scope of scientific and technical guidance on wetlands and poverty eradication for Contracting Parties to support the implementation of these Resolutions, which might include inter alia:
i)        development of an integrated framework for linking wetland conservation and wise use with poverty eradication, including the identification of the most appropriate scale at which each type of poverty eradication action should take place, and also taking into account the possible effects of hunting and harvesting in wetlands;
ii)       identification and development of indicators relating wetland wise use with livelihoods and poverty eradication;
iii)      development of a practical structured ‘guide to the available guidelines and tools’ for addressing poverty eradication in relation to wetlands; and
iv)      collation and review of examples of how wetland degradation affects people’s livelihoods and how maintenance or restoration of the ecological character of wetlands can contribute to poverty alleviation, including from documented case studies provided Contracting Parties, the IOPs, and others that demonstrate that the wise use of wetland resources by local communities can provide a significant contribution to poverty eradication
(Resolution IX.14, Resolution IX.2 task 19, Resolution X.28)

Task lead person:

Ritesh Kumar (WI) and Abou Bamba

Task force members

Sonali Senaratna, Pierre Horwitz, Lucy Emerton , Max Finlayson, Randy Milton, Dave Pritchard, FAO , Mark Smith,

Type of product/output(s):

1. Framework Paper : aimed at development of an integrated framework for linking livelihoods and wetland conservation and wise use including indicators
2. Structured Guide to existing guidelines and tools for addressing poverty eradication and wetlands
3. Case study document ( format to be decided ) on linkages of wetland conservation and wise use and livelihoods

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Funds for a writing workshop: CHF 22,500/ Funds for translation – CHF 5000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Framework Paper: ( First Draft by Mid Term Review Workshop)
   1. Review of currently existing frameworks used in poverty reduction, sustainable use, common property resources management, institutional analysis in terms of their applicability and suitability to address livelihoods and wetland conservation and wise use linkages
   2. Propose an integrated framework for linking wetland conservation and wise and livelihoods
   3. Suggest an indicator system pertaining to the framework
2. Guide to existing guidance and toolkits for addressing poverty eradication and wetlands ( First Draft by Mid Term Review Workshop) ( Targeted to the site managers )
   1. Collate existing guidance and toolkits existing within development and conservation sectors ( summarization , web links, short annexes )
   2. Classify and sequential categorization of the guidance
3. Case studies on wetlands and poverty eradication (Case study library by Mid term, finalized outputs by Triennium close)
   1. Finalize appropriate CEPA mechanism on targets, messages and formats
   2. Review available cases under GAWI, Wise Use, - with IOPs – WWF, IUCN
   3. Request additional cases through IOPs, Ramsar NFPs
   4. Undertake documentation / dissemination

Additional comments/information

Linkages with TWA 4 – Task 3 on interpretation and conceptual thinking on applicability of health to wetland ecosystems
Linkages with TWA 3 - Indicator ( Table 2 set of indicators proposed for further consideration and development by STRP – Resolution IX.1 Annex D - wetland ecosystem services / benefits and wise use policy)
Available literature / material:

1. Outcomes of the Wetlands and Poverty Reduction Project of Wetlands International, and design of Wetlands and Livelihoods Project
2. Existing frameworks and toolkits available from – Institutional Analysis Framework; IWMI – WI Wetlands and Livelihoods Framework; ; DFID livelihood guidance sheets; poverty.net; livelihoods.org ;Oxfam, IUCN Sustainable Use specialist Group etc.

Task No. 2.10: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

1. Maintain an active overview of and input to issues relating to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), especially in relation to surveillance, information-exchange and response strategies, including by continued participation in the Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wild Birds, and including a determination of whether lessons learnt from best practice responses to HPAI H5N1 have implications for Ramsar guidance relating to protected sites and other aspects of wetland wise use, followed by the development of any necessary proposals for modifying such guidance; and

1. In collaboration with other relevant organizations, consider how best to develop practical guidance on the prevention and control of other diseases of either domestic or wild animals in wetlands, especially those diseases that have implications for human health, and how such guidance can be best incorporated into management plans at Ramsar sites and other wetlands.

(Resolution IX.23, Resolution IX.2 task 62, STRP14, Resolution X.21)

Task lead person:

David Stroud, Rebecca Lee and Ruth Cromie (WWT)

Task force members

David Stroud, Rebecca Lee, Ruth Cromie (WWT) and the Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza & Wild Birds

Type of product/output(s):

1. Advice & input to the third technical meeting of the Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wild Birds; assess meeting’s outputs for lessons learnt and determine the implications for Ramsar guidance; where possible re-package meeting’s outputs into guidance materials for Contracting Parties; maintain guide-to-guidance to ensure it fully reflects current good practice; identify guidance gaps; disseminate existing guidance materials (particularly the guidance on reducing risks at protected wetlands) and guide-to-guidance to Contracting Parties (via regional networkers and CEPA?); consider developing HPAI CEPA toolkit for avian influenza and wild birds/wetlands resources permitting (via CEPA?)

1. Work with the Scientific Task Force on Wildlife Disease (established by FAO and CMS at CMS COP9) to consider how best to develop practical guidance on the prevention and control of diseases of either domestic or wild animals in wetlands, especially those diseases that have implications for human health; convene meeting of small group of experts (subset of task force?) to:

prioritize diseases and issues of relevance to wetlands;
how guidance could be best developed;
determine what disease information would be useful to wetland managers and how it would most effectively be presented and disseminated; and
how guidance could be incorporated into management plans for Ramsar sties and other wetlands.
Produce information sheets for wetland managers.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

i) Delegate support for task force meeting: CHF 5,000
Guidance preparation/re-packaging, translation and publication: CHF 5,000

ii)Support for scoping meeting as required: CHF 8,000
Information sheet preparation: CHF 2,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

i)
1. Continue to provide advice to the Convention on issues arising from the development and spread of HPAI H5N1 as necessary and required [ongoing]
2. Continue to contribute to the work of the Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza & Wild Birds on behalf of the Convention [ongoing] particularly in developing the scope and structure of the third technical meeting [May 2009]
3. Attend and provide input to the third technical meeting [late 2009]
4. Assess meeting outputs to:

1. determine implications for existing guidance [spring 2010];
2. determine guidance gaps [spring 2010]; and
3. where possible, re-package outputs into guidance [mid 2010].

5. Discuss re-packaging current guidance and meeting outputs, and developing CEPA HPAI toolkit with CEPA [spring 2010]
6. Continue updating guide-to-guidance [ongoing, with outputs at the end of each calendar year]
7. Provide updated guide-to-guidance, re-packaged workshop outputs and other re-packaged guidance to Contracting Parties [at the end of each calendar year].

ii)
1. Explore potential for academic or other collaboration on producing list of diseases and issues relevant to wetlands (Dirk Pfeiffer, RVC?) utilizing already existing work on water-related diseases by WHO-TDR and other organizations [mid 2009]
2. Consider cost-effective means of getting together expert group to scope task [mid 2009]
3. Meet with expert group [early 2010]
4. Report back outputs to convention as appropriate [mid 2010]
5. Prepare information sheets resources permitting [before COP11]

Additional comments/information

Task ii) has strong linkage with TWA4 (Wetlands and Human Health) and TWA9 (Wetlands and Agriculture)
Target audiences:
i) Contracting Parties especially including wetland site managers and others responsible for wetland management
ii) Wetland site managers and others responsible for wetland management

Task No. 3.1: MA response options – further advice

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Continue to develop ways in which to further promote and best utilize the findings of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, especially those concerning response options, and in particular by developing Ramsar guidance on response options which address broad implementation themes not currently covered by the toolkit of Ramsar Wise Use Handbooks, including inter alia nutrient cycling, food, and climate change, and including advice on responses at sub-global scales.
(Resolution IX.2 task 13, STRP 14, Resolution X.18)

Task lead person:

Rebecca D’Cruz

Task force members

Rebecca D’Cruz, Max Finlayson, Randy Milton

Type of product/output(s):

1. Ramsar Technical Report
2. Modules to supplement Ramsar Management Guidelines;
3. Products to external audience (e.g. health and finance sectors)

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Mini brain storming and writing workshop – 9000 CHF (following mid term)

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Ramsar Technical Report: distribution to STRP for comment – 31 May 2009; comments by 30 June 2009; final text 31 July 2009.
2. Reviewing guidance from TWA2: Economics, Poverty;TWA3: GWOS- indicators to measure effectiveness of responses; TWA4: Health: TWA5: Climate Change; TWA6: Water; TWA9: Agriculture; [Tentative list] - mid term
3. Addendum to RTR or MA Wetland Synthesis

Additional comments/information

Additional task force members from identified TWAs?
Link to TWA 10: CEPA;

Task No. 3.2:Wise Use case studies – dissemination

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare advice on maximizing the utility, both to the STRP and others, of case studies prepared in recent years on aspects of wetland wise use, to include proposals for the design of appropriate Web-based resources to assist in making such case studies more widely available.

Task lead person:

Randy Milton

Task force members

Rebecca D’Cruz, Sandra Hails, Monica Zavagli, Mark Smith (IUCN)

Type of product/output(s):

1. Ramsar Technical Report (update of 1993 publication)
2. Web-based Resource: Hosted on Ramsar web site and/or STRP Support Service

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

1. Carry-over from last triennium: Update of Wise Use Case Studies (1993), DJEnvironmental
2. CEPA Guidance: Who are the end users? STRP, wetland managers, Admin Authority, NFPs…
3. Web-design, maintenance, translation costs??

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Preparation of draft Update of 1993 publication for STRP review by 30 April 2009; Finalization of text for RTR by 30 September 2009;
2. Collate case studies from previous triennium (e.g. river basin management, poverty reduction and wise use – WI, IMWI, WWF) - spreadsheet with urls
3. Explore how the case studies can be identified for future use: theme, searchable key words; translation needs, regional coverage
4. Develop, layout and upload protocols: Lead?? Timeline??? Information required on each case
5. Report at the mid-term on possible options.

Additional comments/information

Links to TWA 3.1 MA Response Options; TWA 4 Wetlands and Human Health;, TWA 2.6 Wetlands and Poverty Eradication, TWA 2.5 Economic Sector Issues; TWA 2.7 Urban wetlands (China case studies); TWA 2.8 Wetlands and Fisheries; TWA 7.3 Wetlands and Water Quality; TWA 7.5 Water Resource Management in dry and semi-humid lands; TWA 8.9 Transboundary Ramsar sites; TWA 4.4 Ecological Character;

Task No. 2.5: Economic sector issues for wetlands – review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Conduct a scoping review of technical aspects of relevance to the Ramsar Convention in the finance, banking, investment, insurance and other economic sectors, with a view to developing enhanced understanding of the implications for wetland-related policy and decision-making of economics-based approaches to investment and insurance risk analysis, tradeoffs, incentives, perverse incentives, modeling, forecasting, water and wetland commodities pricing, hunting and harvesting in wetlands, trade in wetland products, flood risk management, floodplain planning controls, health costs and benefits, and other aspects, taking into account evolving perspectives on valuation of wetland ecosystem services, having regard to opportunities for raising awareness of wetland issues in the financial sector.
(Resolution IX.2 task 167, STRP14)

Task lead person:

Ritesh Kumar

Task force members

Lucy Emerton, Randy Milton, Roy Gardner, Mary Kentula USEPA , George Lukacs (Bob Costanza), ISEE (Peter May), Mark Smith (Andy Seidl / Joshua Bishop)

Type of product/output(s):

Scoping paper - STRP Mid-Term
Technical Report + Guidance – As per outcome of midterm review

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

For expert consultant - Can be assessed after a review of the scoping paper

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Drafting of a scoping review paper on ‘Wetlands and Economic Sectors’. The paper would elaborate on following aspects:
   1. Conventional wetland ecosystem valuation and economic sector decision making – missing links
   2. Building business case for investing into wetland conservation and wise use
   3. Public policy instruments for encouraging business to take into account wetland ecosystem services
   4. Ecosystem services marketplace
   5. Needs, gaps and opportunities

( for b,c and d – provide conceptual framework, tools and cases )

1. Review by STRP during the midterm meeting, decide whether to take up tasks further   

Additional comments/information

Available documentation from World Business Council, International energy agency ( incl World Energy Outlook 2008), practical application of incentive systems, SEA for business to be referred
Linkages with tasks on wetlands and tourism ; wetlands and urbanization; UN Habitat
Based on the outcomes of the scoping, we could link up with appropriate agency /corporate for further support
Scope up economic mechanisms and instruments to enhance financial and economic viability of wetland management

Task No 2.7: Planning and management of urban and peri-urban wetlands - guidance.

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In the light of advice from Contracting Parties through their STRP National Focal Points on issues concerning urban wetlands and peri-urban wetlands that would benefit from additional scientific and technical guidance, consider the preparation of guidance for Contracting Parties and consider ways to disseminate information to Contracting Parties on managing urban and peri-urban wetlands, in accordance with an ecosystem approach, and taking into account issues such as climate change, ecosystem services, food production, human health and livelihoods.
(STRP14, Resolution X.27)

Task lead person:

Rob McInnes

Task force members

Stanley Liphadzi, Chris Gordon, Lijuan Cui, Christine Prietto, Ritesh Kumar, Kevin Erwin, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Lifeng Li, Maria Rivera, Bill Mitsch, Max Finlayson, Pierre Howitz + Other identified ‘conduits’ through which information can be accessed and exchanged.

Type of product/output(s):

1. Summary report on principles of best practice wetland management and restoration in urban and peri-urban areas in order to maximize delivery of ecosystem services.
2. CEPA guidance on how best to communicate and disseminate results to appropriate audiences.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

External Consultant to co-ordinate final synthesis CHF9,000
Post-graduate student to address specific urban wetlands / human health issues CHF3,0000
Workshop (in, or close to, an important urban wetland), including Consultant costs, participant’s travel and per diem CHF30,000
Translation costs CHF2,000
TOTAL CHF44,000
Note: Investigate possibility of corporate or local governmental funding.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Review current best practice guidance on the management and restoration of urban and peri-urban wetlands from different member states and regions. Specific tasks:

• Undertake a background contextual review on the relationship between urban and peri-urban wetlands and world cities including their relationship with major river systems and coastal zones and the specific relationship between Ramsar sites and urban areas.
• Review existing Ramsar guidance and handbooks for guidance on the management and restoration of wetlands.
• Collate and synthesize existing guidance documents and practical examples. Ensure liaison with Secretariat, Regional Networkers, Wetland Link International, IOPs, UN Habitat, FAO Food for the Cities Programme, CBD Global Partnership on Cities and Biodiversity and local municipalities and authorities.
• Collate and review specific issues germane to urban and peri-urban wetlands including inter alia human health (including both threats and opportunities), recreation, education, agriculture, waste water treatment, storm water regulation and poverty reduction.

2. Undertake an initial review of the scientific literature to identify research gaps and strengths in order to assist in refining guidance and substantiating the scientific credibility and robustness of the work.
3. Undertake an assessment of the utility of the existing information. Specific tasks:

• Identify significant knowledge gaps and research/guidance needs.
• Assess transferability of guidance within and beyond states.
• Identify linkages to existing Government policies and economic incentives.
• Identify linkages with existing initiatives such as the FAO Food for the Cities Programme and CBD Global Partnership on Cities and Biodiversity.

4. Summary of case studies. Specific tasks:

• Produce a summary of exemplar projects, including evidence on how inter alia institutional, legislative, economic, indigenous knowledge, scientific and practical elements combined to facilitate delivery.
• Produce a summary of less successful projects identifying the causes of failure or the obstacles to delivery.

5. Integration of CEPA and consideration of the process of dissemination and the form of guidance. Specific tasks:

• Based on the review of guidance define what’s already ‘out there’ and what’s being used successfully?
• Define and evaluate the current processes of dissemination and communication.
• Formulate a process on how best to disseminate appropriate guidance to appropriate audiences.

Additional comments/information

Need to ensure close linkage is maintained with other Thematic Work Areas, especially: especially TWA4: Wetlands and human health; TWA8: Wetland management – restoration, mitigation, compensation; TWA2: Task 2.6 Poverty Reduction; TWA2: Task 2.5 Economic sector issues; TWA9: Wetlands and agriculture; TWA6: Wetlands and water resource management.

Need to address in some form the linkage between this work and the emerging issue of population trends and migrations which defines the urgency and need. This needs to consider both the movement of people into cities as well as out of cities to rural and peri-urban areas.

It is suggested that this should be elevated to a high priority task.

Task No. 2.8: Wetlands and fisheries – guidance needs review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Review remaining needs and gaps in guidance relating to wetlands and fisheries, taking account of the materials produced to date in response to tasks 17 and 18 in Resolution IX.2, and prepare advice on what further scientific and technical guidance may be required, if any, with a suggested work plan for its completion.
(STRP14)

Task lead person:

Zavagli

Task force members

Lukacs

Type of product/output(s):

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Nil

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Lukacs/Zavagli to consider existing status and comments on draft report by Welcomme
2.Lukacs/Davidson/Zavagli to write the report preamble
3. Zavagli: (i) Integrate/incorporate comments from 2005 into existing report
     (ii) Update the draft Report with the most recent Ramsar information.
4. Zavagli consult with Lukacs, Davidson and STRP members previously engaged on Task to identify any extra information needs.
5. Invite potential peer reviewers (David Coates (CBD), Anne vanDam (UNESCO-IHE) and Chris Gordon)
6. Finalise review and advise report’s lead author.
7. Timeline: December 2009 ready for publication.

Additional comments/information

This Task primarily relates to revising an existing draft report by Robin Welcomme.

Task No. 2.9: Wetlands and tourism – scoping review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Conduct a brief scoping review of needs, options and opportunities for development of advice on scientific and technical aspects of tourism, sustainable tourism, ecotourism and related recreational activities in relation to wetlands, also taking into account the effects of tourism-related hunting and harvesting in wetlands.
(Resolution IX.2 task 164, STRP14)

Task lead person:

MacKay

Task force members

Abou Bamba, Sandra Hails, Roy Gardner, Archana C, David Coates, David Stroud

Type of product/output(s):

Scoping review – internal issues paper for STRP to identify scope of future more detailed work if needed.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Yes.
Approx 2 weeks work (10 days) for contracted expert. For scoping review only.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Target audience: guidance should be primarily for site managers.

Focus of the guidance should be on tourism in relation to sustainable livelihoods and benefits for local communities.

Additional product could be information for government leve land policy makers, to draw attention to the value of wetland-related tourism using MA services terminology (link to the economic sector review) – might be possible to quickly repackage CBD and WHC materials into a suitable product for government and policy makers, then focus the rest of the task work on site-level guidance.

1. Work with likely end users to identify their needs for guidance on managing tourism in wetlands and with people/organizations with experiences in tourist developments and their impacts in and around Ramsar sites, to provide scope of:

• Review various definitions in use and clarify for Ramsar purposes;
• What sectors to cover – eg wilderness areas, general recreational areas, urban areas;
• What activities and types of recreation to cover – eg aesthetic only, trails & foot pax, boating & vehicles, rec fishing & hunting & harvesting; hotels in and around wetlands and their impact on wetlands (such as water and waste issues)
• Are there any special issues related to tourism and poverty reduction at the local level
• What level of guidance is needed, i.e. policy, planning or operational.

2. Review available guidance and check if or to what degree this matches user needs, especially whether guidance is wetland-specific enough.

3. Recommendations for scope of further work (3 possibly levels of intensity, perhaps), and resources needed in each case:

• Is new standalone guidance required that STRP should lead, or facilitate through collaboration with other suitable organizations ?
• Is only a guide to guidance needed?
• Should we simply review, restructure and update the existing tourism miniwebsite?

Additional comments/information

Link to poverty eradication task. Tourism important in achieving PR/PE goals.
Check IUCN and WI poverty eradication programmes for useful information.
Check CBD for plenty of information on sustainable tourism.
Likely end users: Target audience also includes tourism managers ?how to engage with that sector.
Could be source of funding through carbon offset programs in tourism sector.
Potential for corporate funding sources.
Available guidance on tourism and biodiversity – use this.
World Tourism Association willing to work with us.
Secretariat are planning Seychelles event 2010 re importance of wetlands for econ and social value. Need support from STRP to provide info or case studies, help organize.
Need Ramsar definition of ecotourism irt wetlands.
UK gov project review of tourism and biodiversity.
CBD can help with this task.
Clarify scope tourism vs recreational uses of wetlands.
MA info on value of rec fishing.
Which kinds of wetlands are most at risk from tourism, sensitivity ito habitats, seasons. GLOF effects on tourism.
Small island states – tourism in coastal areas. Need understanding of impacts of climate change, also impacts of tourism in coastal zone.
Ghana – local perceptions of tourism can be negative. Benefits don’t reach people on the ground.

Task No. 2.11: Waterbird flyway initiatives knowledge sharing

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Contribute as appropriate to joint efforts with the Ramsar Secretariat and the secretariats and subsidiary bodies of the Convention on Migratory Species, the Agreement of African-Eurasian Waterbirds, and other interested organizations to establish a mechanism for sharing knowledge and experience on best practices in the development and implementation of flyway-scale waterbird conservation policies and practices, including successful means of disseminating critical supporting data and information to stakeholders and others.
(Resolution X.22 Resolution X.1: strategy 3.5)

Task lead person:

?David Stroud or Vicky Jones, with DSG

Task force members

David Stroud, Rebecca Lee, Vicky Jones, Secretariat (DSG), Wetlands International (Szabolcs Nagy; Taej Mundkur)

Type of product/output(s):

Workshop; workshop proceedings (Status & further development of global waterbird [and other migratory bird] flyway initiatives: best practices and lessons learnt); advice & input to Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) Scientific Council Working Group on Flyways

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Funds will be needed for preparing and hosting workshop, delegate participation in workshop (c. 30-50 people), report publication.

Estimated costs: delegate support for workshop: CHF 60-70,000.
Report preparation and publication: CHF 25,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Establish liaison with secretariats of CMS, AEWA, WHSRN, WHIMSI, East Asia Australasia Type II partnership and other relevant initiatives and with CMS SC flyways working group leads [April/May 2009]
2. Jointly identify all relevant flyway-scale initiatives, agreements, action plans etc.
3. Identify mechanism for electronic discussion and information sharing between secretariats and initiatives [potentially discussion forum on STRP Support Service web-site] [May 2009]
4. Agree and develop scope and structure of a workshop of practitioners involved in implementing flyway initiatives and different components of this implementation (inter alia population status and trends; research networks, key site network identification & establishment, capacity-building & training, local government & community engagement, national and international governance support etc.) Taxonomic scope could focus on just waterbirds, or alternatively look at full range of bird flyway initiatives (e.g. also soaring birds, passerines etc.) since these approaches could also inform waterbird initiatives re non-site based approaches etc. [May/June 2009]
5. Hold workshop [late 2009]
6. Compile workshop report and publish [early 2010]
5. Provide workshop outputs to inform CMS SC working group, potential information paper to AEWA MOP, and Ramsar SC etc.
6. Continue knowledge and information sharing through Web-based mechanism [2010 onwards]

Additional comments/information

This process will provide key input, for waterbird flyways, to the work of the CMS SC working group on flyways established by CMS COP9 (December 2008), led by CMS Scientific Councillors Taej Mundkur and John O’Sullivan.
CEPA product for AAs.

Task No. 2.12: Invasive species and wetlands guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare comprehensive and up-to-date global guidance on invasive species in relation to wetlands and their management, in cooperation with the Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) and other relevant organizations. (See also task 6.1 iv.)
(Resolution X.1: strategy 1.9)

Task lead person:

David Stroud

Task force members

Stroud, Finlayson, DSG, GISP, G Howard (IUCN) [to be invited]

Type of product/output(s):

Initial scoping – internal note to STRP.
Possible next product would be “guide to guidance”, similar to that prepared for HPAI in Res. X.21.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Possibly not for 1 and 2 below, if someone from STRP core or observers/IOPs can do this.
Will not know how much funding needed for 3 until ToR clearer after mid term meeting.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Initial review of previous material prepared for COP8, and new material/information emerging in relation to climate change & invasive species, in discussion with GISP to identify such new material/information. (note from Max F: the draft wetland guidance, based on CBD, was “wetlandised” and could be resurrected and presented, either as guidance or RTR.)

2. Assess scope and likely suitability of currently available and emerging guidance and information.

3. Revisit at mid-term meetings, and there agree on terms of reference (including resources needed) for possible “guide to guidance”, in consultation with climate change TWA and restoration TWA in order to ensure delivery of task 6.1(iv) also.

Additional comments/information

Significant guidance materials exist but possibly not in a form immediately accessible to managers of Ramsar sites. A ‘guide to guidance’ would be a useful product but the initial scoping notes would need to clearly define the intended audience is for this work: site managers (operational) or policy-levels within government (i.e. is the issue ‘cure’ [eradication/control] or prevention?? A crucial issue in terms of where to focus this issue!

Note that this issue is particularly one that will be relevant to island CPs (especially, though not exclusively, SIDS).

• Regional networkers to assist in identifying suitable information/ materials/guidance before mid term meetings.
• Audience ?? site or policy level ?
• include admin authorities since invasives being discussed in transboundary context in other conventions, MEAs.
• Links to restoration TWA
• Shorter info product (CEPA) on priority species, areas, impacts, invasive traits and control. Top 10.
• Neotropics are source for many invasive plants in wetlands.
• Parasite and pathogen load should be included – invasives move with these loads and affect wetland and human health. Links to task 2.10 wildlife diseases.
• Relative vulnerability of fresh water wetland ecosystems to invasive species compared to other biomes.
• Short case studies with examples from all regions to show costs and benefits, effectiveness of programs, costs of invasive species ito services lost and removal/management programs.
• Additional linkage – to Climate Change tasks – effect of CC on invasiveness – work with GISP – and also connect with IPCC 5AR
• Note also existing tools in IF-WIAMS, e.g. EIS, ERA, VA
• The Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP), in collaboration with UNEP-WCMC, is producing two reports for the European Commission (EC) in support of the emerging EC strategy on invasive species. One report (which is finalized but not publicly available yet) assesses the impacts of invasive species, including the economic impacts. The other study assesses the impacts of policy options on invasive species, including a cost - benefit analysis of policies. This study will be finalized in the 2nd half of this year. Peter Herkenrath can make reports available to us when ready.

Task No. 2.13: Corporate “water footprint” assessments

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Assess guidelines, such as those of the Water Footprint Network, that have been developed to support companies in assessing their water ‘footprint’ as a part of programmes of corporate environmental and social responsibility.
(Resolution X.12)

Task lead person:

MacKay (pending suitable lead person/organization to be identified)

Task force members

Lifeng Li (WWF), Ania Grobicki (GWP)

Type of product/output(s):

Briefing note from STRP to Parties via Standing Committee and STRP report to COP

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

No.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

• STRP Chair will write to WWF and GWP requesting them to collate useful information on this issue of which they are aware, and forward references or original source material to STRP, preferably via the Support Service.
• STRP will make this information available to Parties via a short briefing note and references to relevant materials.

Additional comments/information

• WWF active in this area of sector based accounting tools. Their Water footprint working group could prep summary of existing guidance and work in this area.
• Swedish EI and SIWI should have info.
• GWP as possible lead/task force member ?

Task No. 2.14: Rice paddy biodiversity and management - [this task moved to TWA9 Wetlands &Agriculture]

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Working with other interested organizations:
i)       prepare a technical report on the role of rice paddy in supporting the conservation of wetland biodiversity and the delivery of wetland ecosystem services, taking into account differences in the ways in which rice fields are managed, considering also the work of the GAWI partnership; and
ii)       review, disseminate, and exchange available guidance and information related to rice paddy planning, management practices and training on sustainable rice farming that protect or enhance wetland biodiversity and ecosystem services while also supporting essential food production, in collaboration especially with FAO, IWMI, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the Africa Rice Centre (WARDA), the GAWI partnership, and others.
(Resolution X.31)

Task lead person:

George Lukacs

Task No.2.15: Other sectoral and /or emerging issues - watching brief

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Maintain a “watching brief”, including opportunistic collation of relevant information, on the following issues:
i)       soil and land degradation impacts on wetlands, including the potential scope for collaboration with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification – links to water TWA task on managing water resources in dry and sub-humid lands, could be taken up into that task.;
ii)       shifting patterns of human population distribution and the impacts of these on wetlands, including the potential scope for developing a better understanding of information needs, linked inter alia with relevant aspects of work on climate change – links to task on urban and peri-urban wetlands – should be addressed in that review;
iii)      beyond the consideration of forest issues within the tasks defined elsewhere in the present Annex on climate change and energy, other aspects of the effects on wetlands of afforestation, deforestation and reforestation, awareness needs in the forests sector concerning forested wetlands and wetland-dependent forests, and knowledge needs concerning representation of relevant wetland types in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance (Resolution IX.2 task 165);
iv)      governance issues of relevance to wetlands, including policy options concerning corporate social responsibility, and prevention of and responses to governance failures (including corruption), having regard inter alia to Resolution X.18;
v)      wetlands and conflict, taking account of the background information exchanged within the STRP during the 2006-2008 triennium, and having regard as appropriate to Article 5 of the Convention;
vi)      any need for guidance on specific scientific and technical implementation issues in transboundary contexts – note any new guidance/information/initiatives on TB watersheds and river basins. Note task in TWA7 on tb Ramsar sites partially addresses this issue;
vii)     wetlands and genetically modified organizms (GMOs), in collaboration where appropriate with the Convention on Biological Diversity.
(STRP 14)

Task lead person:

STRP Chair

Task force members

STRP

Type of product/output(s):

STRP reports, briefing notes as required.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

No.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Within STRP meetings.

Task No.2.16: Future priorities – assessment

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In addition to any proposals arising from the “watching brief” task defined above, consider what priority, if any, might need to be given to work or further work in relation inter alia to the following issue areas:
i)       social aspects of water management and social impact assessment;
ii)       industrial sectors not mentioned in the list of other tasks defined in the present Annex;
iii)      biodiversity conservation, protected areas and wildlife population management - (see information note on Skukuza Freshwater Group and IUCN-WCPA task force – continue to communicate and develop collaboration with these groups);

• hunting and harvesting in wetland ecosystems, whether for subsistence, commerce or recreational purposes;
• and in general utilise the “Changwon Declaration” (Resolution X.3 The Changwon Declaration on human well-being and wetlands) in the establishment of priorities, feeding back experiences on its uptake to the Secretariat (needs some strategy development, including CEPA).

(Resolution IX.2 task 167, STRP14, Resolution X.3)

Task lead person:

STRP Chair

Task force members

STRP

Type of product/output(s):

As required.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

No.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Within STRP meetings.

Thematic Work Area name:

Wetland Inventory assessment, monitoring & reporting

Thematic lead STRP member:

Dave Pritchard

Co-lead(s):

Data & inf needs

(4.3)

Baselines

4.4, (4.5)

4.1

Ecocharacter/Montreux Record

4.6

4.7

G-WOS

4.2

Indicators

4.8, 4.9

4.10, 4.11, 4.12

Task No. 4.2: Global Wetland Observing System (G-WOS) – development           

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Draw up a specification for a global system for wetland observation (G-WOS), which would:
i)       draw on collaboration, data and analyses from relevant earth observation programmes and agencies, the WSSD Type II partnership with FAO-GTOS, the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, and other relevant sources;
ii)       include elements of a Web-based wetland inventory meta-database; and
iii)      serve to support relevant Ramsar effectiveness indicators (primarily indicator A(i) on status and trends in ecosystem extent) and other needs specified in Resolution X. [COP10 DR 14 on Data and information needs for management of wetlands], including those relating to inventory and wetland condition associated with agriculture, climate change, and human health.
(Resolution IX.2 task 50, STRP14, Resolution X.14, Resolution X.1: strategy 1.2)

Task lead person:

Max Finlayson

Task force members

Marc Paganini, George Lukacs, Lisa-Marie Rebelo, Nick Davidson, Ake Roseqvist, Philippe G, Osamu Ochiai.
(And link to Chris Prietto re CEPA issues)

Type of product/output(s):

(i) Concept paper on what specifically is meant by a “system” in this context, and the ways in which it will add value
(ii) Report for COP11 on how the regional Globwetland II pilot project could be applied more widely, including as a “global” approach
(ii) Data, to feed to effectiveness indicators (indicator A(i), and possibly others).

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Funding available from ESA [how much, and will it cover all elements listed below?]

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Write a concept paper on what specifically is meant by a “system” in this context, and the ways in which it will add value to streams of relevant activity. Concentrate inter alia on the “system” not necessarily being a physical thing, but a set of facilitated connections (or clearing-house) to achieve optimal matching of data sources to defined Ramsar-relevant user needs. Max to do[?] [By when?]
(ii) Desk exercise and liaison with CEPA and others to scope the various relevant data users and desirable uses for the “system” [who to do? By when?]]
(iii) Compile an up to date description of the state of play with relevant data-supply initiatives – eg ESA/TdV N Africa Med Observatory; FAO et al WSSD Type II partnership (FAO dropped out – but can register by an alternative route), JAXA-ALOS 2, IPBES, MA Sub-global assessments, GEO etc. George Lukacs to do [by when?] with Max Finlayson supporting.
(iv) Review Med work/Globwetland II and comment/make recommendations on the experience gained as a pilot for a global WOS concept, and produce a report on results (GWII) by end 2010. ESA to lead, with input from UNEP-WCMC, & in coordination (via Max) with TdV -OMW/MedWet. [Does this need a meeting?]
(v) Review options for widening/translating the pilot to other regions/scaling-up for global use, and produce report, by end 2011. ESA to lead.
(vi) Marc Paganini and Max Finlayson to liaise with Peter H and David Pritchard re data that can feed in to effectiveness indicator A(i), and potentially other Ramsar indicators.

Additional comments/information

Link element (ii) above to TWA 10 and to Task 4.3
Link to inventory review task 4.1
In reviewing options for scaling-up, include testing best sampling efficiency.
Include post -2010 target/BIP end-uses as appropriate in (ii) above.

Task No. 4.3: Ramsar data and information needs – further elaboration.

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In relation to Resolution X.14 on A framework for Ramsar data and information needs:
i)       update and further develop the Convention’s Framework for Ramsar data and information needs, drawing on implementation experience, end-user perspectives, and analysis of further needs defined in the decisions of COP10, in particular in relation to the data and information needs for identification and designation of Ramsar sites;
ii)      produce a companion document identifying actions and action gaps of relevance to meeting the needs defined in the Framework at different scales;

1. make use of the Framework inter alia to inform harmonization/interoperability activities with other MEAs; construction/prioritization of relevant project proposals either developed or supported by the Ramsar Convention; and the future development of the Ramsar Sites Information Service;
2. with the Secretariat, continue to cooperate with the CBD Secretariat, UNEP, and UNEP-WCMC in the development of a framework for harmonized reporting on implementation on inland waters for the CBD and the Ramsar Convention.

(Resolution IX.2 task 52, STRP14, Resolution X.11, Resolution X.14)

Task lead person:

David Pritchard? [But time availability a problem?]

Task force members

David Stroud, Peter Herkenrath, Christine Prietto

Type of product/output(s):

Updated version of Framework document. To Standing Committee? COP11 as INF doc?

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Short contract to compile info into an update. 5000 CHF
Further workshop (to follow 2008 one) at UNEP-WCMC in 2010? 10000 CHF?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Scan the identified gaps in the Table Annex to Res X.14 and flag links to any other STRP tasks that will help to fill them (Chris P to have first go, during STRP15; DEP to support).
(ii) Need to give particular attention to completing the “national level” part of the Framework, perhaps by using STRP NFPs and STRP regional networker members to canvas networks for input to the Framework. Ask Rebecca d’Cruz what’s possible in this regard.
(iii) Concerning the “companion document”, begin with this pro-forma and simply keep a live rolling list of action points. (DEP to do; on-going).
(iv) Concerning use of the Framework to inform harmonization/interoperability activities, take it to & refer to it at upcoming meetings on the subject, eg Hanoi April 2009 (PH, ND to do).
(v) Concerning use of the Framework in prioritizing Convention project support, this is mainly a Secretariat function.
(vi) Concerning use of the Framework in future development of the RSIS, ND to post to SuSe the Terms of Reference for work by WI on future RSIS development (with appropriate confidentiality caveats) with a request for STRP comment on how well the proposals will assist users (aiming particularly to draw comment from those who are or work with CP AAs, eg David Stroud, Randy Milton).
(vii) Present an updated version of Framework to ? STRP mid-term workshops 2010? DEP to do? If resourced?

Additional comments/information

Link to (take input from) task 4.10 (“Convention monitoring and assessment” re Strategic Plan).
Take input from TWA7 work on data & info for Ramsar site criteria guidance.
In relation to strategy 1.5, refer to information elements coming from synergy/harmonisation activities.
In relation to strategy 1.6, explore possible relationships with publishing houses who might be prepared to take Ramsar products on a regular basis.
In relation to strategy 1.11, feed in from the TWA2 task on economics.
In relation to strategy 2.7, copy in relevant parts of what’s already in 2.1 and 2.2.

Task No. 4.4: Describing ecological character – guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Develop further the Convention’s guidance on describing ecological character (Resolution X15) to include, to the extent practicable:
i)       further operational guidance for practitioners on completing the ecological character description sheet for sites;
ii)       guidance and information on using relevant conceptual models;

1. cross-references, where available, from each relevant description sheet data field to worked examples, case studies or other appropriate sources of potential, actual or de facto standards for completing the fields;
2. guidance on the scope for using Ramsar information fields in enhancing harmonisation and streamlining of reporting under related MEAs; and

v)      a review of practical implementation experiences, with lessons learned.
(STRP14, Resolution X.15)

Task lead person:

George Lukacs [?]

Task force members

Peter Herkenrath (for task element (iv), regional network STRP members, re finding case experiences [others?]

Type of product/output(s):

Guidance, as COP Resolution & annex.
(Possibly separate, and possibly to more targeted audience than COP?) guidance/technical communication on MEA harmonisation aspects.
Information paper on review of implementation and lessons learned

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

[Contract for consultation and guidance drafting – 15000 CHF]

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Conduct up to date review of available conceptual models (inc Australia, and any from more minimal approaches), and their applicability to this task.
(ii) Put out call? for case-studies, together with other implementation experiences and lessons learned, review these together with existing case study material.
(iii) Write worked examples. (Perhaps include a transboundary site example). Look at how far one can read in info from existing RISs.
(iv) Compile draft guidance, including links to worked examples and case studies. [Replace relevant parts of X.15, or supplement it?]
(v) Road-test draft guidance with selected practitioners and AAs?
(vi) Examine further what guidance to give on the treatment of natural/background variability, including droughts, in describing ecological character (link to task 4.6i, where this is covered).
(vii) Review issues and compile technical communication on task element concerning MEA harmonisation aspects (PH to do? with input from ND, D Coates, and DEP).

Additional comments/information

Look at distinguishing minimum standards or essential vs desirable elements of the description? (Cf core inventory concept). Or will this need to be variable from case to case and depend on the circumstances of a given situation?
Note potential link with Ramsar Technical Report awaiting completion on “Methods for the vulnerability assessment of wetlands” by Habiba Gitay (Max to address peer-review comments and finalise).
Get input/advice re water quality aspects from task 7.3.

Task No. 4.5: Harmonisation of RIS – options review [Task moved to TWA7]

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Review options for, and as necessary prepare proposals for, re-structuring and/or revising the format of the Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands (RIS) and its accompanying Explanatory Notes and Guidelines to take account of the recommendations in Resolution X.15 on Describing wetland ecological character, and data needs and formats for core inventory: harmonized scientific and technical guidance, other relevant decisions adopted by COP10, other requirements (including protocols regarding shared sites), and the outcome of other tasks listed in the present Annex which relate specifically to the RIS, including (but not necessarily limited to) the tasks on Ramsar site Criteria, ecological character description, and Ramsar site information needs.
(Resolution IX.2 task 106, STRP14, Resolution X.15)

Task No. 4.6: Detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character - further guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In the context of Article 3.2 and the guidance in the Annex to Resolution X.16 on A framework for processes of detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character, develop further guidance on issues including:
i)       “limits of acceptable change”, including guidance on defining the range of natural variability of a site;
ii)       determining confidence limits and degree of likelihood in cases of “likely” change in the context of Article 3.2;
iii)      the application of a precautionary approach in the Ramsar Convention; and
iv).     appropriate procedures for the Secretariat and Contracting Parties to consider reports made by third parties of change or likely change to the ecological character of Ramsar sites.
(STRP14, Resolution X.13, Resolution X.16)

Task lead person:

To be identified

Task force members

Dave Pritchard, though with availability constraints. David Stroud. Roy Gardner re legal aspects of elements (ii) and (iii)? Monica Zavagli re element (iv). Max Finlayson & George Lukacs ? re LAC. [Others to add]

Type of product/output(s):

Brief guidance for adoption by COP11 (and information document?) For Contracting Parties.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

[To add?]

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Review limits of acceptable change approaches that are in use around the world, and draft conclusions on applicability to the Ramsar ecological character change system.
As an extension of the thinking to be done about defining the range of natural variability, consider also what advice can be crafted to assist Parties on Art 3.2 responses to changes in ecological character caused by anthropogenic climate change, and feed this also across to work of TWA5.
(ii) Develop guidance on confidence limits/degree of likelihood issues.
(iii) Develop an expanded treatment of precautionary approach issues in the Ramsar context (building on COP10 Doc 27, and having regard eg to the IUCN guidelines on pp).
(iv) Consult and develop principles and procedures regarding 3rd party reports, in conjunction with ND/MZ/Secretariat, limiting STRP engagement to factors relating eg to task elements (ii) and (iii). (Some earlier work done in Secretariat to draw on).

Additional comments/information

Build all on what’s already in COP10 DOC27.
Fold in task 4.7 (Montreux Record) under this one.
Note link mentioned with TWA5 on climate change.
Check mitigation/compensation work from TWA8; inc drawing anything relevant for the LAC element (i) above from TWA8’s review of no net loss policies.
Consider role for STRP NFPs in element (iv).

Task No. 4.8: Indicators of effectiveness - operationalising the 1st tranche

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Assist the Secretariat in operationalising the first tranche of Ramsar indicators of effectiveness of implementation of the Convention agreed by COP9, including implementation of Indicator Collaboration Agreements, publishing and disseminating results and conclusions, contributing to 2010 biodiversity target activities and other relevant assessments, and reporting to Standing Committee and COP11.
(Resolution IX.1 Annex D, Resolution IX.2 task 59, STRP14, Resolution X.1: strategy 2.6)

Task lead person:

Dave Pritchard

Task force members

Peter Herkenrath (UNEP-WCMC), Szabolcs Nagy (WI), Alexia Dufour, Vicky Jones (BirdLife International), DSG

Type of product/output(s):

Series of indicator reports, for CPs and wider audiences including BIP, CBD, (following model tabled at STRP15 for indicator A(ii)).
For each indicator: (a) a technical report (b) illustrated summary/ies. Put through Standing Committee, in ways to be discussed at SC40.
Journal articles?
Progress overview report, for Standing Committee and COP11.
Advice to CPs on priorities among Strategic Plan implementation objectives, in light of indicator findings. (This to be discussed in SC).

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

(Two workshops already held).
Funding required for probably 4 further workshops, hosted by UNEP-WCMC in UK.: 4x14000 = 56000 CHF
Analysis, eg of NRF data? Or can this be done by WI/Secretariat without funding?
Report-writing and editing, for 8 reports – CHF 25000[?]
Production of illustrated summary headline reports [add figure]
(38000 of the above to be spent on work in 2009).

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Draw up plan of workshops required for individual indicators; timing; key participants required; scope for combining 2 or more indicators in same workshop – Peter Herkenrath to lead, with David Pritchard and DSG. Rough draft already completed during STRP15 - working version to be in place by end April 2009.
  Probable next indicator priorities: A(i) (linked to G-WOS task 4.2); E (management effectiveness); G (Red List Index)
  Subsequent priorities: C (water quality); H (designation progress).
Outline plan suggests Sept 2009 (Ai), Nov 2009 (E), Jan 2010 (G), Mar 2010 (C) and Jun 2010 (H) as workshop dates. Or possibly bring G further forward (ie earlier) than this.
Do something May/Jun 2009 [if possible?] to produce what we can for GBO-3 and CBD requirements.
Also see what packaging we can do of several indicator reports together for eg WWD use.
(ii) Edit and complete (with additional analyses, and aspects of statistics from SN) the draft report on indicator A(ii).
(iii) Test format of A(ii) report with a sample of end-users (D Coates, C Prietto to assist). Learn any lessons for use of this report as a model for others.
(iv) Hold workshops, as above.
(v) Write other indicator technical reports.
  Next priorities: B (Ramsar site status); Indicator D (threats), F (waterbird populations).
  Subsequent priorities – indicators coming from the workshops listed above.
(vi) Write, print and disseminate summary reports (input from Sandra Hails, Heather MacKay, Chris Prietto).
(vii) Participate in expert workshop on post-2010 indicators, Reading, UK, 6-8 July 2009 (ND, P Herkenrath, SN). (viii) Make further input to cooperation with CBD, inc GBO-3, IW PoW IDR and CBD Strategic Plan, and incorporate Ramsar indicator thinking in post-2010 plans. Also look at how CBD (indicator) info can feed in to Ramsar indicators, ie a two-way link.
(ix) Attend 2010 BIP Partnership meeting, Cambridge, UK, July 2009.
(x) Identify opportunities for high-profile use of indicator reports/information, eg World Wetlands Day, other global fora etc. (DEP, ND, PH, with input from Sandra H).
(xi) Check CAFF biodiversity indicators work and identify scope for synergies with Ramsar indicators.

Additional comments/information

One of highest TWA3 priorities.
What “cuts” do we want each indicators workshop to grapple with, eg regions, flyways, inland/coastal?
Note links identified with tasks 4.2, 4.10, 4.11, 4.12.
Get input also re Indicator C from task 7.3 on water quality.

Task No. 4.9: Indicators of effectiveness – development of the 2nd tranche

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Further develop, test and put forward for use by Parties and others as appropriate the second tranche of indicators of effectiveness of the implementation of the Convention agreed by COP9.
(Resolution IX.1 Annex D, Resolution IX.2 task 60, STRP14, Resolution X.1: strategy 2.6)

Task lead person:

Dave Pritchard?

Task force members

Peter Herkenrath/UNEP-WCMC, DSG

Type of product/output(s):

Confirmed list of indicator titles and definitions.
Indicator specifications/full factsheets.
Initial pilot analyses for the one or two most feasible indicators.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Expert workshop, UK. 14000 CHF.
Preparation of analysis/report materials – consultant [amount?]
Further work on feasible indicators, as per 1st tranche approach [amount?]

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Review outline specifications for 2nd tranche indicators and confirm/amend as appropriate. DEP to initiate consultation with DSG/ Peter Herkenrath – August 2009? (Including looking for links/synergies with 1st tranche work, CBD/2010 BIP activities etc).
(ii) Hold expert workshop in first half of 2010 to:
  - Develop full specifications/factsheets for each indicator.
  - Draw together relevant data (with engagement of relevant specialists?) for the one or two most feasible indicators.
(iii) Check CAFF biodiversity indicators work and identify scope for synergies with Ramsar indicators.

Additional comments/information

Ritesh Kumar will contribute to Indicator J, from tasks 2.5/2.6 (and possibly Pierre Horwitz from health TWA too), and possibly to indicator M.
Link with Mike Acreman re indicator J in relation to Envage/IH work on costs of floods in UK.

Task No. 4.1: Status of wetlands inventories

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare a summary update report on the status of global and regional wetland inventories, referring as appropriate inter alia to the update of the Global Review of Wetland Resources and Priorities for Wetland Inventory (GroWI-2), the WSSD Type II partnership with FAO-GTOS, Web-based dissemination of regional inventories and directories, and other relevant collaborations, in particular those with earth observation agencies, and including appropriate recommendations on methodologies, coverage gaps, harmonization, awareness and knowledge-exchange.
(Resolution IX.2 task 51, STRP14, Resolution X.1: strategy 1.1)

Task lead person:

Max Finlayson

Task force members

(Re EO expertise) - Lisa-Marie Rebelo (IWMI), Marc Paganini (ESA), Ake Rosenqvist;
(Re inventory expertise) - Rob McInnes (SWS); wetland experts for corals, seagrasses, mangroves, mudflats….etc

Type of product/output(s):

Outcomes – information on the extent of wetlands and wetland inventory (what we know about location, distribution, extent of wetlands) and gaps for national/regional wetland decision-makers and information on inventory techniques for managers and researchers.
Process – GlobWetland & ALOS K&C; mangrove, seagrass, reef specialist networks.
Output - Information paper on status of inventories and inventory approaches, with action recommendations.
Web-portal for accessing inventories and directories?

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Consultant?
1 x writing workshop [5000 CHF?}

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Prepare an outline of the task/report structure based on the recommendations (on wetland types and methods) on inventory from GRoWI and subsequent developments or information sources (e.g. GlobWetland, ALOS K&C, Peatlands Assessment).
(ii) Identify lead authors to consider information on each recommendation; coordinate component text and prepare draft…..review and finalise draft in dedicated writing session.
(iii) Working group to outline recommendations.

Additional comments/information

Users: primarily Contracting Parties.
Provides an information source for proposed G-WOS (see task 4.2).
Note potential link with Ramsar Technical Report awaiting completion on “Inventory metadata” by John Lowry (Nick to do quick re-edit, and re-check with author).

Task No. 4.7: Montreux Record questionnaire redesign

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare advice on redesigning the Montreux Record questionnaire to ensure consistency with the recommendations in Resolution X.15 on Describing wetland ecological character, and data needs and formats for core inventory: harmonized scientific and technical guidance and Resolution X.16 on A framework for processes of detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character, and to take account of other perceived priority requirements.
(Resolution IX.2 task 56, STRP14)

Task lead person:

DEP?

Task force members

Max Finlayson, Heather MacKay, Nick Davidson, David Stroud, Denis Landenbergue/WWF (esp re RAMs).

Type of product/output(s):

Elements of draft COP11 Resolution.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Small contract for wider review option? 7000 CHF.
Build into this contract some consultation with Senior Regional Advisers, Standing Committee, relevant national contacts (perhaps AAs rather than STRP NFPs?)

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Consider wider review of Montreux Record process and associated processes (3.2, RAMs etc), drawing on collation of discussions in preceding triennium, and including reviewing the role of STRP, including re advice on removal decisions (and possible standards eg re verification/standard elements to cover in these decisions), drawing inter alia also on the discussion at STRP15.
Check linkage/overlap between 3.2 report form and MR questionnaire.
Parts of this are contingent on final outcomes of tasks 4.5 and 4.6 above. Other parts could be completed earlier (2nd half of 2009).
In interim, DSG/Heather MacKay/David Protchard to compile some procedural guidance on STRP input to MR removal consultations and equivalent advice requests from Parties (mid 2009).

Additional comments/information

Fold in under task 4.6.

Task No. 4.10: Convention monitoring and assessment – scientific and technical aspects.      

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In ways which are complementary and supplementary to the work on effectiveness indicators specified in other tasks in the present Annex above, assist the Secretariat, Standing Committee and Parties in relation to the scientific and technical aspects of their monitoring and assessment of the performance of the Convention through the Key Result Areas defined in the Ramsar Convention Strategic Plan 2009-2015 and assessment of information in COP National Reports.
(STRP14, Resolution X.1)

Task lead person:

David Pritchard?

Task force members

Heather Mackay?, Nick Davidson? David Coates

Type of product/output(s):

Recommendations to Standing Committee

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Small contract 5000 CHF.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

May need some re-describing to make clearer. Appears to be aiming to provide sci/tech evaluation of performance against Strategic Plan targets, beyond what will be done via effectiveness indicators.
(i) Review Strategic Plan KRAs against STRP work plan and other on-going activities, and make suggestions for each relevant KRA of appropriate sources of sci/tech information that could be used to evaluate performance.
(ii) Nat Report aspect too…
(iii) Deliver recommendations to SC41, eg on format of a “Strategic Plan monitoring report”, and follow-through thereafter in light of decisions they may take.

Additional comments/information

Link to indicators tasks 4.8 and 4.9, in sense of being complementary to those.
Work closely with task 4.3 (data & inf needs framework), and use that framework perhaps as the basis for the Strategic Plan monitoring report..
Link to (take info from) task 4.12 as appropriate (METT).
Be alive to possible recommendations for future NRF questions.

Task No. 4.11: Status and trends of wetlands, including Ramsar Sites – assessment

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare an analysis of the status and trends in the ecological character of sites in the Ramsar List, set as far as possible in the context of the status and trends of wetlands more generally and drawing as appropriate on the Ramsar Sites Database, the Convention’s indicators of implementation effectiveness, the results of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, and other assessment initiatives, and seeking in turn to contribute to relevant assessment processes including those relating to international 2010 biodiversity targets.
(Resolution IX.2 tasks 57 and 58, Resolution X.1: strategies 1.2 & 2.6)

Task lead person:

Dave Pritchard?

Task force members

Wetlands International, Peter Herkenrath, Max Finlayson, DSG, David Coates.

Type of product/output(s):

Review and proposals document, on needs, opportunities and potential approaches to Ramsar sites status & trends reporting.
(Reports on Indicators A, B and D from task 4.8 will be a product for this task).

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Deliver through G-WOS and indicators activities.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) List aspects of status & trends information available or potentially available from existing sources/initiatives (principally via Indicators A, B and D).
(ii) Define more precisely the uses and users, (eg 2010 BIP and similar processes) of more comprehensive status & trends information than will be provided eg by relevant indicators in task 4.8.
(iii) Deliver this task otherwise through tasks 4.8, 4.9 (indicators) and 4.2 (G-WOS).

Additional comments/information

Need to re-phrase the definition of this task to reconcile heading and task content, vis-a-vis Ramsar sites vs wetlands generally: DSG suggests its scope should be wetlands in general, in particular Ramsar sites.
Coverage of any required status & trends reviews could consist of samples and subsets, pending ability to do anything more comprehensive.
Link to relevant indicators in task 4.8, inc B and D for Ramsar sites (which could be seen as substantially delivering a portion of this task). Ditto indicator A on wetlands generally.
Link to G-WOS task 4.2 (ie G-WOS providing the info), Globwet II and JAXA.
Cooperative work in 2009 between Ramsar and CBD on status & trends of wetlands for CBD inland waters PoW review may contribute part of this task (though probably not any Ramsar sites specific cut).

Task No. 4.12: Management effectiveness tools – guidance.

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare guidance on how the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) developed by WWF, the World Bank and others can be applied by Contracting Parties for regularly assessing detection, reporting and responses to change in wetland ecological character.
(Resolution X.16)

Task lead person:

Archana Chatterjee (WWF)

Task force members

Peter Herkenrath, UNEP-WCMC, David Stroud

Type of product/output(s):

Draft guidance to accompany METT documentation.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

None

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

(i) Aug 2008 METT document (“Effectively managing the world’s wetlands”) to be posted on Support Service inviting comments regarding best approach to this task. (May-July 2009). (Archana to do).
(ii) WWF to review comments received in response to (i) above and make proposals on content and targeting of draft guidance by mid-Sept 2009. (Archana to do).
(iii) TWA3 working group to discuss proposals provided in (ii) above and agree next steps/drafting of text.

Additional comments/information

Note that one small element of METT data is destined to feed directly in to indicator E in task 4.8. The present task aims to look at potential application of other aspects to other Ramsar end-uses (and link to KRAs in Strategic Plan, as far as possible). Feed in to task 4.10 as appropriate (Strategic Plan).

Thematic Work Area name:

Wetlands & human health

Thematic lead STRP member:

Pierre Horwitz

Co-lead(s):

tbd

Task No. 5.1:Wetlands and human health – advice and guidance    

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Investigate further the links between wetlands and human health and well-being, in particular by:
i)       developing, from the STRP’s 2008 report and other relevant sources, further products for the human health sector concerning human health and wetlands;
ii)       further assessing the interactions between wetland ecosystems and their services and human health and well-being, having regard also to the human health dimension of the task defined separately in the present Annex above concerning Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1, and the risks posed to human health and to wetlands by the spread of diseases through illegal trade in or movement of wetland products and species;
iii)      developing interpretations and conceptual thinking in a Ramsar context of the applicability or otherwise of “health” to wetland ecosystems, the relationship of wetland ecosystem health to the concepts of ecological character and ecosystem services, and the implications for implementing and monitoring wise use and ecological character objectives under the Convention, taking into account both socioeconomic and ecological considerations;
iv)      identifying gaps in knowledge and information on wetlands and human health for different regions, and identifying ways and means of filling such gaps;
v)      identifying opportunities to promote the importance of Ramsar sites which are significant for human health; and
vi)      preparing guidance for wetland managers and the human health sector on processes for identifying appropriate responses to the co-management of wetlands and human health issues, including trade-offs and including application of health impact assessment approaches, increased transparency of information, representation of marginalized stakeholders, and engagement with the core business of other sectors such as water management.
(STRP14, Resolution X.23)

TASKS MAP

Output 1  Tasks 5.1.i, ii,iii in part.     Complete RTR                     2009
Output 2  Task 5.1.i           Engagement with WHO in strategic projects       2009-2012
Output 3  Task 5.1.ii           Factsheets and Information sheets (diseases and processes) 2010
Output 4  Task 5.1.v           Case studies for promotion of wetlands and human health 2010-2011
Output 5  Task 5.1.vi          Adapt wetland management guidelines (hh module)    2010-2011
Output 6  Task 5.1.iii          Extend conceptual and systemic thinking         2010
Output 7  Task 5.1.ii in part        Re-examination of wetlands, natural disasters and hh   2010
Output 8  Task 5.1.iv          Conduct regional analysis                2011

Task lead person:

Max Finlayson

Task force members

Pierre Horwitz, Ritesh Kumar, Rebecca D’Cruz, Robert Bos WHO

Type of product/output(s):

1. Completed RTR
2. Stand alone summary
3. Publications emanating from individual chapters
4. Short targeted media items

User, target group

Wetland managers (but this will also serve to introduce our activities to the health sector)

Funds needed

3 days writing workshop 3 people per diems = 2500 CHF 2nd half 2009
Publication and distribution costs 2010 – not really known.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Distribute chapters to lead authors as appropriate immediately.
2. Work on individual chapters, more urgent with ones in need of revision and alteration.
3. Three day writing workshop in August 2009 (around SERI in Perth) for final review, collation and integration, and preparation of standalone summary.
4. Devise and implement peer review process.
5. Identify appropriate journals and submit chapters for publication.

CEPA

Format and production issues, media statements

Links to other TWAs?

Will know a bit more about this when we get to finalise the recommendations

Additional comments/information

Highest priority immediate action. Gateway activity (everything else will follow from it)
Achieves Task 5.1.i, ii, and iii in part

N.B. make sure that the RTR includes a comparison between wetland-related illnesses and type of wetlands (i.e. reservoirs (World Commission on Dams may have data).

Task lead person:

Co-leads: Pierre Horwitz (Ramsar) + (WHO)

Task force members

To be determined. SG, DSG, STRP Chair as appropriate and relevant. Ramsar Secretariat for support, CEPA (cross-sectoral process guidance)

Type of product/output(s):

Products to be determined as ones of mutual benefit

User, target group

Specific contribution to international process – probably written outcome of project. User group determined by the process.
Otherwise dual user group to be negotiated
- Wetland managers, Ramsar Contracting Parties
- Public health agencies in nation states, others as determined by WHO

Funds needed

Travel 1500 CHF, 5 days per diem 1250CHF for networking 2nd half 2009. = 2750 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

A. Commence negotiations with WHO immediately to seek mutual agreement of work agenda. Develop communication plan for within Ramsar to maximise the opportunities to engage. Entry point will be i) relevance and interest from Ramsar; ii) the RTR on W+HH. Develop relevant work agenda. Ramsar-WHO agreement will need to involve Secretariat.

Wetland biodiversity and human health. It would make sense to derive a relevant synthesis from the RTR to contribute to the Biodiversity and Human Health 2010 CBD process. (Will need to engage with CBD, WHO to make sure our synthesis is welcomed and relevant).

Links to other TWAs?

Climate Change TWA5

Additional comments/information

Achieves Task 5.1.i
Strategic importance: this topic is (these topics are) very conceivably one(s) where Ramsar will be asked to contribute something anyway over the triennium.
Potential partners for CC+W+HH:
WHO (Water Sanitation Health; Environment and Health; Environment, Agriculture Health TRG)
TDR (Special programme – UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO) Research and Training in Tropical Diseases
IDRC(COPEH). NESH.

Task lead person:

Rebecca Lee

Task force members

Pierre Horwitz, Chris Gordon (Ruth Cromie WWT ?)
(potential to involve conservation medicine practitioners @ Wildlife Trust, and IAEH)

Type of product/output(s):

Adaptation or adoption of information sheets for key zoonotic diseases likely to be important to wetland management
Preparation/adaptation of factsheet for the relationships between disease, trade and translocations

B. Prepare Factsheet on disease, trade and
translocations

User, target group

Wetland managers, site managers specifically.

Funds needed

5000 CHF for a student project in 2010

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

A. i) Determine what zoonotic disease information would be useful to wetland managers and how it would most effectively be presented and disseminated
ii) Literature review and scanning of existing information sheets and promotional/educational material concerning significant zoonotic diseases that wetland managers in the world are likely to need to engage with, be aware of, or plan for (e.g. schistosomiasis, dengue, malaria).
iii) Adapt existing information into information sheets for wetland managers
iv) Disseminate information sheets according to results of i), e.g. via Ramsar website, regional networkers, management planning guidelines.

B. i) Literature, website search for documents where the relationships between wildlife and human diseases, trade and translocations are covered and relevant to wetlands.
ii) Prepare summary report, mainly through collation of existing information.
iii) Work with CEPA to prepare factsheet and plan for distribution

For both, consult with regional network for useability etc.

Align with proformas for other tasks listed below?

Links to other TWAs?

Strong linkage to Task 2.10 and 2.12 (TWA 2) and TWA8 Task 2.1

Additional comments/information

Achieves Task 5.1.ii in part. Depends on progress of Task 2.10-ii and may depend on securing academic or other relevant collaboration

Task lead person:

Pierre Horwitz

Task force members

Max Finlayson, CEPA

Type of product/output(s):

To be determined in discussion with CEPA.
Possibilities for case studies to be boxed and used in RTR.
Possibilities to use any or all of narratives/stories; picture stories; written case studies, short movies, CD compilation, etc.

User, target group

To be determined as part of the processes (but task asks for promotion which suggests public).

Funds needed

Scoping workshop 3 days three people 5000 CHF in 2010
Production costs in late 2010 and 2011 = 20000 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Collate existing case study materials which deal with the broad range of wetlands and human health (breadth should cover regions, physical health, mental health, socio-economic determinants of health, nutrition effects etc.)
2. Examine documentation from FAO, WWD III, IWMI, UNEP and others for their case studies relevant to wetlands
3. Determine appropriate messages and audiences and medium (scoping workshop with all case studies collated, might be the best approach here). Ultimate aim will be to determine what we want the case studies to achieve (i.e. redress misperceptions, misinformation; promote ecosystem services and health, etc.) to identify the target group (indeed the same case studies might end up being used / repackaged in different ways for different audiences).
4. Select high priority stories and develop for promotion.

Links to other TWAs?

TWA10, TWA2 (3.2) wise use case studies.

Additional comments/information

Achieves Task 5.1.v in toto
Important to note that such promotional documents do exist (i.e. WWF’s Freshwater and Poverty Reduction; Schuyt 2005)
Global Wetlands Network, WLI (WWT), Flyway networks, and others good opportunities to scope for message and medium.

Task lead person:

Rebecca D’Cruz

Task force members

Pierre Horwitz and others tbc Ritesh Kumar (WI)

Type of product/output(s):

Module(s) on Wetlands and Human Health - Frequently asked questions and their answers. End product to be determined.

User, target group

Wetland managers

Funds needed

Facilitation 2 days STRP FP 1200 CHF 2011.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Synthesize Wetlands and Human Health RTR to derive key issues
2. Use STRP focal point processes to consult and determine what site managers might want to know
3. Prepare Frequently Asked Questions prompts based on 1. and 2. above.
4. Prepare reference materials for answers to FAQs
5. Determine where in the suite of instruments available in Ramsar where this module might best sit. Planning or Managing?
6. Consult CEPA concerning appropriate promotion and application. Might need some training here so may need to consider the development of small training modules, perhaps as on-line modules (UNESCO-IHE might be interested in helping)

Links to other TWAs?

TWA1. TWA2 urban and peri-urban wetlands. TWA2 Poverty and Wetlands.

Additional comments/information

Achieves Task 5.1.vi in part

Need to consider sequence of activities here: Number 3 – Information sheets and factsheet – might be best for these to be developed after this process has run its course.

Task lead person:

Pierre Horwitz

Task force members

Ritesh Kumar (WI), Max Finlayson, Chris Gordon, Sasha Koo-Oshima (FAO), Matthew McCartney (IWMI)
(Work with WHO TDR, NESH/IISD, IAEH)

Type of product/output(s):

Report, conceptual models (maybe even interactive ones)

User, target group

Rolling consultation and audience: STRP in first instance, Contracting Parties next, eventually Wetland/Site managers

Funds needed

None – can be done by email/Skype

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Build upon RTR’s conceptual development (Ecological character+ecosystem services+ human health). Wetlands as social ecological systems. Multiple dimensionality of health of systems.
Review literature for social ecological systems and its application for wetlands
Review models for systemic health
Review application of systemic health in wetland contexts

CEPA

Appropriate consultation approaches. Appropriate dissemination

Links to other TWAs?

Eventually all of them?

Additional comments/information

Completes Task 5.1.iii

This work may eventually need to be located outside of the Wetlands and Human health theme area and perhaps located as a work agenda in Ecological Character.
A suggestion is to investigate the concept of ‘wetland ecosystem health’ perhaps as collaborative symposium, with STRP involved.

Task co-leads:

Ritesh Kumar + Pierre Horwitz

Task force members

Max Finlayson, Chris Gordon, Sasha Koo-Oshima (FAO), Matthew McCartney (IWMI)

Type of product/output(s):

Review report that deals with the degree to which wetland policies of contracting parties (need to) deal with this issue.

User, target group

Contracting Parties

Funds needed

Consultant fees: 20 days x 600 CHF = 12000CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Identify FAO, CEM, IUCN, IPCC etc and other key literature that deals with the links between natural disasters (hurricanes, fire, flood, tsunamis, earthquakes etc.), wetlands, human health and livelihoods.
2. Review documentation for trends in the relationship
3. Select 5 national examples as case studies and examine the degree to which wetland policies incorporate the relationships

Links to other TWAs?

Link to TWA7 (Task 8.8), TWA5 (obviously), TWA6 task on storage, TWA8,

Additional comments/information

Achieves Task 5.1.ii in part

Consider the following in the development of this activity:
- Resolution IX.9. The role of the Ramsar Convention in the prevention and mitigation of impacts associated with natural phenomena, including those induced or exacerbated by human activities
- Report of an Advisory Group to the Secretary General of UN on water related disasters
- IPCC work agendas
- Issues of Wetland mismanagement
- Documents produced by IWMI.
- Insurance work (and Costanza et al. paper)

- Entry points outside of Ramsar proc not nec wetland policies two tasks one inward one outward?

Task lead person:

Pierre Horwitz

Task force members

To be determined

Type of product/output(s):

Report on the information needs for regions in terms of wetlands and human health

User, target group

In the first instance the target group will be the Lead Authors of the RTR for them to identify the regional information issue as a cross-cutting theme.
Beyond that, Wetland managers. Wetland Policy audience.

Funds needed

Consultant fees 20 days 12000 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. This will need to be addressed as part of the RTR, and recommendations from/of that report will specify how to conduct the gap analysis.
2. Determine objectives, methodology
3. Will involve a review of IPCC, WHO, WWD Reports where they involve wetland ecosystems and human health issues.
4. May need to drill down to individual nations’ health reports (those nations where it is freely available) to see how the relationship is reported on by the health sector in contracting parties

Links to other TWAs?

TWA5 Climate Change task – direct applicability (need to consolidate TWA5 approach to Task 6.1.ii with the above approach)

Additional comments/information

Achieves Task 5.1.iv

Things will become clearer with the completion of the RTR, and agreed to revisit this mid term.

Thematic Work Area name:

Wetlands & climate change

Thematic lead STRP member:

Max Finlayson

Co-lead(s):

Pierre Horwitz, George Lukacs, Kevin Erwin, Mike Acreman, Christine Prietto

Task No. 6.1: Wetlands and climate change - further review and guidance [ Task split in five sections: (i),(ii), (iii), (iv) and (v)]

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Develop guidance, working with the IPCC and others, on the latest knowledge of the current and potential impacts of climate change on wetlands and on appropriate policy and management responses for addressing these impacts on wetlands, including inter alia:

i)       building on initial work done in the 2006-2008 triennium, further development of methods for assessment of hydro-ecological impacts of climate change on wetlands, including the testing of such methods in data-poor areas;

Task lead person:

Finlayson/Zavagli

Task force members

Max Finlayson, Mike Acreman, Maria Rivera, Chris Gordon, Philippe Gerbaux

Type of product/output(s):

Outcome – information for wetland managers and decision-makers on extent of information already available; cross-reference with VA approach
Processes – engage with STRP members and the STRP NFP network
Product - Collation and listing of existing material on assessment methods and examples of application; completion of VA report

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

NIL for collation task
Further report to be provided at mid-term discussions

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Collation task:
Send material to Monica Zavagli – approach STRP NFPs – 3 months
Collation and summary - Finlayson
Check the methods in draft VA report – Gitay et al

Testing task:
Discuss options for testing the method with WWF, Kevin Erwin, WI and Chris Gordon
Provide proposal to mid-term discussions

Additional comments/information

Paper provided by Acreman et al on hydro-ecological approach now available

Opportunity to test in data-poor areas needs conformation – can we identify opportunities and leads for testing in data poor regions?
-Ask ASWM (Association of State Wetland Managers- USA) project team to review Mike Acreman’s paper and consider testing it in their project (Heather MacKay and Kevin Erwin)

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

6.1 ii) a review of wetland distribution in relation to land use and population distribution trends, in order to demonstrate potential effects on human health if wetlands are lost due to climate change impacts;

Task lead person:

Finlayson

Task force members

 CIESIN (de Sherbinin)?, GIS-expert?, Pierre Horwitz (Health)

Type of product/output(s):

Outcome – i) information for wetland managers and decision-makers on the extent of land use and population (change?) in vicinity of wetlands in specific areas, e.g. deltas, and current and likely impacts; ascertain how much health data/information is available, and ii) provide technical information to IPCC 5AR
Processes – link with CEISIN data on population etc; provide input to IPCC 5AR; check the MA-SGA for further information
Output - Report/paper

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

GIS expert needed – 2 weeks?
CEISIN costs?
Workshop – 3-5 people – 10,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Discuss with CEISIN to ascertain extent of and access to data layers (population, land use, health issues), and extent of analysis required for specific wetland types or geographic locations (e.g. deltas or coasts)
2. Confirm team and structure of report, and provide cost estimates
3. Plan meeting in Addis Ababa and draft report (IWMI office)

Additional comments/information

Proposed not to do global analysis – scale not that useful for national managers.
Proposal to address wetland types considered most vulnerable to CC – not actually listed but deltas are highly vulnerable and support major population centres, and important for food products; lot of biophysical information available on deltas (eg Wolanski et al books/papers)
Information on climate change and health will continue through IPCC 5AR

Establish links with Periurban TWA (Rob McInnes), David Stroud, and UN population analyses

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

6.1 iii)      guidance on how wetland management and restoration can contribute to improving adaptation to climate change (linking as appropriate with the other tasks on wetland restoration and rehabilitation defined separately elsewhere in Res. X.10 Annex II);
[To be undertaken under TWA 8 tasks]

Task lead person:

Kevin Erwin

Task force members

Max Finlayson, Rob McInnes, Randy Milton, Roy Gardner, Mark Smith (IUCN), Kevin Erwin

Type of product/output(s):

Outcome: to be developed
Processes:to be developed
Outputs: to be developed

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Coordinate with TWA8 wetland management and restoration

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

6.1 iv)      review emerging information on the ways in which, inter alia, changes in wetland thermal and chemical regimes, hydro-patterns, and increases in water storage and conveyance infrastructure, including impoundments, potentially alter the pathways by which non-native species invade wetlands and influence their spread, persistence and ecological impacts on native species (see also task 2.12);

Task lead person:

Max Finlayson

Task force members

David Stroud, Mike Acreman

Type of product/output(s):

Outcome – importance of invasive species and pathways of spread & hydro-changes and role of dams in change in ecological character
Processes – Invasives - link into IPCC, GISP

Outputs – Discuss with team members

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Provide information on funding at mid-term discussions

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Discuss possible links with TWAs that cover invasives, water resource management

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

6.1 v) liaise with the Arctic Council on an assessment of the vulnerability of Arctic wetlands to climate change and the development of guidelines for wise use while taking account of the ongoing Arctic Biodiversity Assessment.

Task lead person:

Max Finlayson

Task force members

Randy Milton, Tatiana Minaeva (CC GAP), David Stroud, Dave Pritchard, Peter Herkenrath (WCMC), Tim Badman (WHC)

Type of product/output(s):

Outcomes – messages about the importance of climate change for Arctic wetlands and identification of suitable adaptation mechanisms
Processes – Arctic Council
Outputs – Arctic Council assessment report

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant?

1. Support attendance at occasional meetings / for liaison and limited involvement in assessment

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Contact Arctic Council and ascertain state of assessment and identify potential role/input from STRP
Seek contact with Arctic Council through Arctic country NFPs
Establish a watching brief and report to STRP
Check common ground with Ramsar indicator processes

Task No. 6.2: Climate change and wetlands mitigation and adaptation - collaborative activities

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Climate change and wetlands mitigation and adaptation – collaborative activities. In conjunction with the Ramsar Secretariat, collaborate with relevant international conventions and agencies, including UNFCCC, CBD, UNCCD, IPCC, UNEP, UNDP, FAO and World Bank, in the development of a multi-institutional coordinated programme of work to investigate the potential contribution of wetland ecosystems to climate change mitigation and adaptation, in particular for reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience to climate change, and in addition:
i)       establish ways and means of collaborating with the UNFCCC and other relevant bodies to develop guidance for the development of mutually supportive adaptation and mitigation programmes that recognize the critical role of wetlands in relation to water and food security as well as human health;
ii)       bring scientific issues and information on wetlands and climate change to the attention of the Chairs of the Scientific Advisory Bodies of the Biodiversity-related Conventions (CSAB) at the next available opportunity, and use this forum to encourage enhanced scientific collaboration on issues related to wetlands and climate change;
iii)      establish ways of collaborating with the IPCC on scientific issues specifically related to wetlands and climate change, and contribute to its future work in order to raise the awareness of the climate change community regarding the importance of wetlands, including through the preparation and publication of relevant scientific reports on wetlands and climate change.
(STRP 14, Resolution X.24)

Task lead person:

 Max Finlayson & DSG

Task force members

Heather Mackay, David Coates, Pierre Horwitz, Kevin Erwin, Dave Pritchard, David Stroud, Rebecca D’Cruz, Mike Acreman, Christine Prietto, George Lukacs

Type of product/output(s):

Outcomes – strengthen and expand messages to IPCC, UNFCCC, CBD etc about the importance of climate change for wetlands and develop greater attention to these in other processes

Processes – IPCC, UNFCCC, CBD…… WHO?

Outputs – contributions/chapters etc in assessment reports undertaken by above mentioned processes

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

1. Meeting travel costs – to be determined
2. Collation and presenting information in report – 10,000 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Establish group comprising representatives from all TWAs to feed information that could be used as input by Ramsar/STRP to other relevant international processes
2. Nick Davidson to coordinate Secretariat processes and inputs; Max Finlayson to coordinate input on technical issues from STRP to the IPCC in particular, and keep Heather Mackay informed
3. Handle all requests for information on wetlands, or offers to facilitate analyses including wetlands based on Ramsar data sets and/or information/knowledge
4. Collate information from STRP TWAs as basis for input to, for example, IPCC 5AR
5. Complete RTRs on Carbon in Wetlands & Vulnerability Assessment & Health and Wetlands & Agriculture – as sources of input to IPCC 5th Report

Additional comments/information

Expected to be a rapidly evolving and expanding activity – coordination and prioritization within STRP will be essential
Coordination and liaison with Ramsar/STRP partners - seek synergies and support for common messages and inputs;
All STRP TWAs could contribute to and support these activities…..

Task No. 6.3: Biofuels and wetlands review and guidance [Task moved under TWA9 – Wetlands &Agriculture]

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Biofuels and wetlands – review and guidance.
i)        review the global distribution of biofuel production in relation to impacts on wetlands;
ii)       review and collate existing best management practice guidance and social and environmental sustainability criteria for growing biofuel feedstocks in relation to wetlands, and where appropriate develop such guidance and criteria;
iii)      consider further discussion between the Contracting Parties on addressing sustainable biofuel issues in relation to wetlands;
iv)      advise the Standing Committee of the conclusions; and
v)       work with relevant international bodies dealing with biofuels.
(Resolution X.25)

Thematic Work Area name:

Wetlands & water resources management

Thematic lead STRP member:

Mike Acreman

Co-lead(s):

Matthew McCartney (IWMI), Heather MacKay

Task No. 7.3: Wetlands and water quality guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Develop guidance on water quality issues related to wetlands, building on the materials collated and drafted by the STRP during the 2006-2008 triennium, with a view to integrating the final outputs into the Integrated Framework for the Ramsar Convention’s water-related guidance.
(Resolution IX.2 task 91, STRP14).
Briefing paper completed.
Technical report draft and comments provided (needs completion)
Guidance no yet started.

Task lead person:

To be confirmed – possibly approach Rick van Dam, IHE Delft ?

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Matthew McCartney, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates, Mike Acreman
Others – Jos Verhoeven, Ed Maltby
Secretariat – CEPA

Type of product/output(s):

Technical report (finalisation)
Guidance

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

CHF 20,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Finalise the technical paper produced by Jos Verhoeven during 2006-2008 triennium (Dec 2009).
2. Prepare ToR for guidance based on briefing paper (Oct 2009)
3. Identify target audience (internal, site managers?)
4. Produce outline of guidance for mid-term workshop (Feb 2010)
5. Produce first draft of guidance (Jun 2010)

Principal aims are:
Recognize water quality is a fundamental element of and in determining ecological character
Review approaches to water quality monitoring and characterisation
Define methods to assess the response of wetlands to changes in water quality inputs
Specify the extent to which wetlands have potential for tertiary water treatment
Define limits to water purification capacity
Provide guidance to site managers

Additional comments/information

Comments from STRP 15 working sessions:
Emphasise:
Much human waste is already processed by wetlands
There are thresholds/limits to processing rates in wetlands
a trade-off with other functions such as biodiversity
Specific wetlands may be created to treat waste but may not perform other functions and services
Lack of baseline water quality data, guidance on suitable data may be available from other sources, (e.g UN sustainable development indicators work)
Isotope may be used as tracers
Climate change may alter temperature and process rates
Land use may impact indirectly, especially agriculture
Abstraction of water from coastal aquifers may promote salt-water intrusion
Guidance needs to specify:
Types of data collection (chemical data, biotic indicators)
Methods to assess the response of wetlands to changes in water quality
Thresholds of nutrients/pollutants to maintain ecological character
Economic implications of water quality issues
Use:
Case studies from Uganda

Links:
CEPA and promotion of wetland ecosystem functions
River basin and coastal zone management
Wetlands and human health
Wetlands and climate change
Wetlands and agriculture
Ecological character (task 4.4)

Task No. 7.4: Wetlands and water storage interactions guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare a technical report on wetlands and water storage (including inter alia dams and groundwater) interactions, to provide further information and expanded guidance for supporting the implementation of the Resolution IX.1 Annex C ii Guidelines for the management of groundwater to maintain wetland ecological character, including inter alia:

i)    issues concerning emerging perspectives on water storage in relation to security of supply of water, food and energy inter alia in the context of climate change;
ii)    options for guidance on optimizing the operation of dams and other water management infrastructure (including flood defence and flood alleviation systems) for the benefit of upstream and downstream wetland ecosystems; and
iii)   taking into account the ecological roles played by reservoirs and other human-made wetlands (task 8.8).
(Resolution IX.1 Annex C ii, Resolution IX.2 task 90; STRP14).

Task lead person:

Mike Acreman, Matthew McCartney,

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates, Mark Smith
Others – World Bank, DFID, International Hydropower Association, IUCN
Secretariat – CEPA

Type of product/output(s):

Technical report

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

CHF 25,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Prepare ToR for work (June 2009).
2. Produce table of contents and report outline and engagement strategy (Sep 2009)
3. Produce first draft of report (Dec 2009)
4. Working session at mid-term workshop (Feb 2010)
Principal aims are:
Formulate Ramsar’s position on water storage options
including wetlands as natural infrastructure for water management
Develop a strategy for engaging in global water management debate

Additional comments/information

Comments from STRP 15 working sessions:
Emphasise that:
$ 22 trillion to be spent on water supply and sanitation
wetlands provide natural infrastructure for water management
Report needs to address:
Merits of different forms of water storage and comprehensive options assessment
including ecological value of man-made wetlands [from TWA7: task 8.8 (i)]
Multiple use of storage (including flood protection)
Human health issues
Equity (who gains and who loses from storage)
Virtual water issues
Adaptation strategies for climate change TWA and desertification
Feedbacks of wetlands on climate
Downstream impacts, water quality, environmental flows – restoration (task 9.2)
Displacement of people
Governance issue, corruption, political risk
Catchment management and regional biogeography
Inter-basin water transfer
How Ramsar can engage in global water debate
Links
Wetlands and agriculture (soil water storage , peri-urban areas);Wetlands and human health;Wetlands and climate change; Wetland management and restoration (task 9.2); Ramsar sites – man-made wetlands (task 8.8); CEPA – dissemination of messages

Use
IWMI storage types project ; WMO Integration flood management work; Dams and Development Project outputs (stakeholder platforms); South Africa – working for water, working for wetlands
Case studies: Indian water tanks, Congo dams
Million ponds project – is it underpinned by science?
International Hydropower Association/WWF sustainability criteria
Target audiences
World Bank
Global Water Partnership

Task No. 7.5: Water resources management in dry and sub-humid lands – guidance.

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Develop guidance on water resources management in dry and sub-humid lands, including aspects relating to climate change and desertification, in consultation with the Convention on Biological Diversity in the context of the Ramsar-CBD Joint Work Plan, and in consultation with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification.
(Resolution IX.2 task 86, STRP14).

Task lead person:

To be decided Katherine Cross to recommend from IUCN network

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Matthew McCartney, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates, Mark Smith, Mike Acreman
Others – Katherine Cross (IUCN), CBD, UNCCD
Secretariat – CEPA

Type of product/output(s):

Guidance
(Re-title to focus on role of wetlands in water management in arid areas)

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

CHF 20,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Prepare ToR for work (Sep 2009).
2. Scope issues and available technical material, produce table of contents and outline (Dec 2009)
3. Attendance at IUCNworkshop
4. Produce first draft of guidance (Jun 2010)
5. Engage with global debate on sustainable use of water in arid areas – timing depends on other initiatives
Principal aims are:
Scope issues of wetlands and water management in dry and sub-humid lands
Develop guidance of the role of wetlands

Additional comments/information

Comments from STRP 15 working sessions:
Emphasise that:
Climate change may impacts on dry and semi-humid areas
Intense competition for water
Reliance on groundwater
International context, staging areas on flyways, corridors
Report needs to address:
Are wetlands in dry and semi-humid areas more or less vulnerable? (on the margins of existence)
Are people (social and economic) reliance on wetlands in dry and semi-humid areas
Wise use of wetlands
Wetlands as natural infrastructure (see task 7.4)
Seasonal role of wetlands
Virtual water issues
Changes in soils - desertification
Links: Wetlands climate change; Wetlands and agriculture; Convention on Biological Diversity (Ramsar-CBD Joint Work Plan); UN Convention to Combat Desertification; IUCN groundwater initiative; World Bank groundwater initiative
Use:
Case study of rainfall generation by wetlands – important process in arid areas e.g. inner Niger delta
Sudd wetland studies

Task No 7.7a: Ramsar water and wetlands – review of strategy for engaging in the global water debate

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In discussion at STRP15, participants identified the need for an additional task in reviewing the water-related issues and activities of Ramsar. This new task would develop a strategy for Ramsar to engage in the global water debate, focusing on the role of wetlands as natural water infrastructure. This would include specifying aims, mechanism for engagement and products needed to support the engagement.
This strategy may influence the review all adopted Ramsar COP Resolutions concerning water and wetland interactions (Task 7.7b) and may require some revisions to water-related guidance.

Task lead person:

To be decided

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Matthew McCartney, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates, Mark Smith, Mike Acreman
Secretariat – CEPA

Type of product/output(s):

A strategy for Ramsar to engage in global water-related issues
Recommendations for revising water-related guidance to support the strategy

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

CHF 10,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Prepare ToR for work (Sep 2009).
2. Scope water-related issues relevant to Ramsar (Oct 2009)
3. Produce draft of strategy paper (Jan 2010)
4. Hold discussion session at mid-term workshops (Feb 2010)

Additional comments/information

Comments from STRP 15 working sessions:
Emphasise that:
Producing a good strategy for engagement is the key to orientating all Ramsar water-related guidance
Need to review global concepts of river basin management, IWRM, ecosystem approach, Dublin principles
The strategy needs to address:
Scope of current Ramsar guidance and SWOT analysis
How Ramsar should engage with water management issues and processes
Review of water-related concepts and terminology see what has been used and what works
Assess and recommend appropriate concepts for organizing water-related guidance
UN guidance on IWRM weak on wetlands
Review Global Water Partnership IWRM approach may not address wetland issues well
Links: Major role for CEPA - communications/advocacy
Will provide overview for tasks 7.1 and 7.2
Joint work with international river organizations

Task No 7.7b: Ramsar water and wetlands Resolutions - review.

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Building on work done through the Standing Committee in the 2006-2008 triennium under Resolution IX.17 on the Review of the decisions of the Conference of the Contracting Parties, by COP12 review all adopted Ramsar COP Resolutions concerning water and wetland interactions, make recommendations concerning consolidation, updating and retirement of aspects of these Resolutions in relation to recent developments, and prepare a new draft Resolution concerning water and wetlands issues, including any necessary updating of the Integrated Framework for the Ramsar Convention’s water-related guidance adopted by COP9 in Resolution IX.1 Annex C.
(STRP14, Resolution X.19).

Task lead person:

To be decided

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Matthew McCartney, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates, Mark Smith, Mike Acreman
Secretariat – CEPA

Type of product/output(s):

New draft resolution encompassing past water-related resolutions

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

CHF 15,000

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

2013 onwards
Review past water-related resolutions
Make recommendations for consolidation, updating and retirement of aspects of these Resolutions in relation to recent developments
Prepare a new draft Resolution concerning water and wetlands issues
Approach to be reviewed and steps defined following completion of Task 7.7a

Task No. 7.1: Implementation of river basin management plans – review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Review, to the extent practicable, available experience in implementation of river basin management plans, including experience in applying national laws on environmental flows, and document the lessons emerging.
(STRP14)

Integrate with 7.2 below

Task lead person:

Heather Mackay

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Matthew McCartney, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates, Mike Acreman

Type of product/output(s):

Case studies of including wetlands in IRBM

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Not yet known

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Undertake literature search for examples of wetlands in IRBM
2. Review scope of new literature (Jun 2010)
3. Prepare proposal and ToR for synthesis, if required (Sep 2010)

Additional comments/information

Comments from STRP 15 working sessions:
Emphasise:
Wetlands as natural infrastructure than can deliver IRBM
Investing in wetlands is viable and sustainable option
Topdown process (national planning)
Bottom up process (local actions/initiatives)
Use:
WETWIN examples of wetlands in integrated river basin management
Ghana example
WWF river basin guidelines
Vision for wetlands (England)
UK landscape scale wetland restoration and management
Links:
Next triennium guidance on using IRBM to guide river basin scale wetland restoration
Planning and management of wetlands in urban and peri-urban areas

Task No. 7.2: Integrated water and coastal management - case studies

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Investigate ways of making optimal use of existing collated case studies for illuminating good practice concerning river basin management, integrated coastal zone management, and national laws on environmental flows and other water management issues, with reference to relevant volumes in the Ramsar Wise Use Handbooks series.
(STRP14, Resolution X.1: strategy 1.7).

Integrate with 7.1 above

Task lead person:

Heather MacKay

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Matthew McCartney, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates, Mike Acreman

Type of product/output(s):

Case studies of good practice

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Not yet known

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Undertake literature search for examples of linking IRBM and ICZM
2. Review scope of new literature (Dec 2009)
3. Prepare proposal and ToR for synthesis, if required (Mar 2010).

Additional comments/information

Case studies on transboundary wetlands may be useful

Task No. 7.6 (new): Environmental water requirements for non-river inland wetlands – options for guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Res X.10 proposed a review of needs and possible options for development of guidance on the determination of environmental water requirements for palustrine wetlands. (Carried forward from STRP 2003-5 work plan, STRP14).

This Task was reformulated during STRP15. Participants felt that there was insufficient information on water requirements of palustrine wetlands to justify a full task. The task of the remit was therefore widened to keep a watching brief on water requirements of all inland wetlands other than rivers (for which guidance has been produced)

Task lead person:

Mike Acreman, Rebecca Tharme (TNC)

Task force members

STRP - Chris Gordon, Archana Chatterjee, Tatiana Mineeva, Ritesh Kumar, Stanley Liphadzi, Lifeng Li, Sasha Koo-Oshima, Ania Grobicki, Anne van Dam, Matthew McCartney, Sonali Sellamuttu, David Coates
Others – Rebecca Tharme, Jackie King, Jay O’Keffe

Type of product/output(s):

Database of studies on water requirements of non-river inland wetlands
Potential synthesis paper to cover all non-river inland wetlands

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Not yet known

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

1. Undertake literature search on recent work in water requirements of wetlands (other than rivers)
2. Review scope of new literature (Feb 2010)
3. If sufficient literature exists, prepare a proposal and ToR for synthesis (May 2010).

Additional comments/information

Comments from STRP 15 working sessions:
Strong link to production of guidance on management and restoration

Thematic Work Area name:

Wetlands of International Importance

Thematic lead STRP member:

David Stroud

Co-lead(s):

Tbc

• Task No. 8.4: Strategic framework and guidelines for the future development of the list of Wetlands of International Importance - review and harmonization of Criteria

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Building on preliminary analyses begun during the 2006-2008 triennium, and without prejudice to the ongoing task of keeping the Ramsar site Criteria and Guidelines generally under review (task 8.1 above), conduct a thorough review and make proposals concerning the consistency, completeness, logic, coherence and clarity of the targets, guidelines and other materials that support the implementation of the Criteria, including (but not limited to) targets in the Convention’s Strategic Plan, sources of contextual data for scientific evaluations, and guidance in the Strategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance as amended.
(Resolution IX.2 tasks 110 and 112, STRP14).

• Task No. 4.5: Harmonization of RIS - options review [Moved from TWA3]

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Review options for, and as necessary prepare proposals for, re-structuring and/or revising the format of the Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands (RIS) and its accompanying Explanatory Notes and Guidelines to take account of the recommendations in Resolution X.15 on Describing wetland ecological character, and data needs and formats for core inventory: harmonized scientific and technical guidance, other relevant decisions adopted by COP10, other requirements (including protocols regarding shared sites), and the outcome of other tasks listed in the present Annex which relate specifically to the RIS, including (but not necessarily limited to) the tasks on Ramsar site Criteria, ecological character description, and Ramsar site information needs.
(Resolution IX.2 task 106, STRP14, Resolution X.15)

• Task No. 8.3: Guidance on selection of Ramsar Sites for particular wetland types user-needs review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Following, and in light of, the findings of the general review of the availability and utility of the Convention’s scientific and technical guidance undertaken during the 2006-2008 triennium, conduct with input from CEPA experts a more detailed and specific review of user needs in relation to the Convention’s guidance on selection of Ramsar sites for particular wetland types and the effectiveness of the guidance in meeting those needs; and develop proposals for any improvements or additions that may be necessary.
(Resolution IX.2 task 107, STRP14).

Task lead person:

David Stroud

Task force members

STRP, David Stroud, Secretariat staff (including CEPA), Dave Pritchard, ?Randy Milton, ?WCMC, George Lukacs, Eric Onyango, ?Sang-Don Lee, Philippe Gerbeaux, ?IUCN + prob others as we get going

Type of product/output(s):

• Scoping/issues paper for STRP mid-term workshop in February 2010
• Options paper for SC41 mid 2010
• Potential proposals for CoP11 to be determined.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

• Funds for small workshop in late 2009 (@WCMC?) to brainstorm issues: 10,000 CHF
• Funds for consultant to write-up workshop outcomes into draft scoping/issues paper following short workshop: 5,000 CHF
• Possible further funding needed post-midterm workshop in 2010/11

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

• Some work undertaken last triennium which has scoped some of the issues.
• Undertake scoping survey and prepare by Feb 2010, (and possibly as basis of paper to SC41 in mid 2010?) a paper summarising issues where current criteria and guidelines are unclear, ambiguous and where terminology might be better harmonized with that adopted by other Convention processes using information drawn from:
• inputs from Secretariat staff responsible for assessing and Ramsar Information Sheets (RIS) and entering data into database [mid 2009];
• targeted questionnaire sent to those individuals within administrative authorities or otherwise who have recently (?since mid 2008) drafted RISs seeking their input with regard to identifying issues of unclarity and ambiguity [by end of 2009]; and
• review of Strategic Framework by Task Group members with the aim to identifying those data and information needs require for the effective identification, delineation and designation of Ramsar sites [end of 2009].

• Consider results of scoping survey of issues at mid-term workshop in January 2010 with aim to develop options on how best to address issues raised through the workshop and scoping survey;

• Following mid-term workshop develop proposals for modification of Strategic Framework and RIS as necessary and appropriate, considering especially format and audiences.

Additional comments/information

NOTE:

• Task 8.3 strongly links to 4.5 (RIS revision options), and 8.3 (user-needs analysis) so propose to progress these together.
• Note sensitivities re changes to criteria and RIS and risk of unintended consequences. Need to ensure that guidelines retain the flexibility required for their global application but address issues of unclarity where additional guidance would aid their application by Contracting Parties.
• There may be further guidelines developed at national scale that might usefully inform this review. Try to identify via networkers?

Task No. 8.6: Biogeographic regionalization schemes - availability and further assessment

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Following the work completed during the 2006-2008 triennium on biogeographic regionalization schemes of relevance to the application of the Ramsar Criteria:

• develop a Web-based portal for downloadable GIS-based information on the relevant schemes for realms, provinces, and ecoregions, to be hosted within the Ramsar Sites Information Service;

ii)       investigate further the usefulness of existing terrestrial and inland biogeographical regionalization schemes for supporting the application of the Strategic Framework and guidelines for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance.
(STRP14, Resolution X.20).

Task lead person:

David Stroud

Task force members

IWMI, Wetlands International, Philippe Gerbeaux, and others

Type of product/output(s):

• Develop roll-out of MEOW via Ramsar Sites Information Service.

• Ramsar Technical Review and possible materials for CoP11 (packages as part of revision of Strategic Framework guidance review)

Draft Technical Report giving background to Resolution X.20 and work to date (MEOW analyses). Needs chapter on policy, update with CoP10 developments and edit. Target for STRP consultation by end May 2008.
[Rebelo, L-M., Finlayson, M. & Stroud, D.A. (in draft). Ramsar site under-representation and the use of biogeographical regionalisation schemes to guide the further development of the Ramsar List. Ramsar Technical Report XX.]

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Further review of inland biogeographic regionalisation schemes: 25,000 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

• To be developed following discussion with Wetlands International re RSIS re-development. [2009]

• Develop ToR

Additional comments/information

Links to Task 8.7

Task No. 8.7: Assessing under-representation in the Ramsar List - advice on gaps, targets and data and information sources

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Further develop advice on identifying and addressing under-representation in the Ramsar List, and investigate methods for defining targets for representation of wetland types in the List, including advice on data sources and methods for evaluating representativity of particular wetland types, and making links to relevant indicators of Convention effectiveness, with an overall emphasis on connectivity and other aspects of functional coherence of site networks, and including a review of experience at regional and other levels with such network concepts.
(Resolution IX.2 task 104, STRP14, Resolution X.20).

Task lead person:

IWMI

Task force members

IWMI, Wetlands International, Philippe Gerbeaux, Shukuza Freshwater Group, David Stroud, Tim Badman, IUCN WCPAs

Type of product/output(s):

Analytical report reviewing types of under-representation especially for inland wetlands

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Analysis and report: 15,000 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Work in last triennium has progressed understanding of under-representation of coral reefs and will shortly be reported in a near-final Ramsar Technical Report.
Several elements to the work are envisaged:

1. An assessment of both the global and regional extent of different wetland habitat types (in broad terms accepting the lack of precision with the data available). To the greatest extent possible the wetland types used will aim to follow the Ramsar wetland classification, although it is noted that some ‘higher’ groupings may need to be used (for example treating Forested and Non-forested peatlands together as a single Peatland category).
2. A ‘best’ assessment of the extent of these same wetland type categories within the List of Ramsar sites – accepting that many sites will not have details of the mapped extent of wetland types and thus assumptions will need to be made as to the extent of wetland types with the overall site series.
3. Derived from 1) and 2) above, the proportion of different wetland types within the Ramsar List at three scales:
   1. Global;
   2. Regional (using Ramsar’s geographic regionalisation); and
   3. Regional (using an appropriate biogeographic regionalisation).

• Informed by the output of 3) above, an assessment of possible approaches to the setting of targets for the inclusion of wetland types within the Ramsar List. This should consider approaches to the setting of both global and regional targets (as outlined above).

Additional comments/information

Strong conceptual links to Task 8.6 and these two tasks should probably be undertaken together, with initial work on inland water regionalisation preceding analysis of under-representation. Most likely to be more productive to undertake analysis at regional scale owing to lack of relevant global datasets.
Wetlands International noted that there are different aspects of under-representivity, as follows:

1. “Global coverage – the global distribution of designated wetlands in relation to the global wetland resource.
2. Regional or national under-representation, according to appropriate biogeographical classifications, and notable in those Parties who have designated only one or very few sites.
3. Numbers of sites designated or certain of the wetland types of the Ramsar Classification of Wetland Type.
4. Numbers of sites designated for their wetland-dependent biodiversity (under Criteria 2-8), for example gaps in the site networks for migratory waterbirds and globally threatened species.”

Task No 8.8: Reservoirs and other human-made wetlands – ecological significance review and designation guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Having regard to the tasks defined separately elsewhere in this Annex relating to urban wetlands and to dams and other water management infrastructure:
i)       review the ecological significance of reservoirs and other human-made wetlands, including their use by aquatic and other water-dependent biota; and
ii)       prepare further guidance for Contracting Parties concerning the identification and designation of such wetlands for the Ramsar List, taking into account the experience gained by Parties that have already done so and in collaboration with other interested bodies.
(Resolution IX.2 task 108, STRP14).

Task lead person:

(David Stroud)/tbc

Task force members

David Stroud, Randy Milton and probably others as we get going, TWA2 folk, TWA6 folk

Type of product/output(s):

• Ramsar Technical Report and possible information paper for CoP11.

• Potential addition to Strategic Framework if agreed necessary.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Co-funding for literature review = 20,000 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

• Seek academic collaboration to undertake literature review. Much information probably exists. (The issue is of developing strategic significance [emerging issue] for the Convention given the potential significance of artificial wetlands in climate-change adaptation strategies.)
  • Develop ToR for review – probably refocusing the task in starting to think about the role of artificial/human-made wetlands with respect to climate-change adaptation.
    • Also assess RIS data for Ramsar sites that are human-made (especially assessing issues such as what was prior-land-use).
  • Seek collaborators or engagement with appropriate consultant.

          MOVE THIS SUB-TASK TO TWA6 WATER RESOURCES
[Integrated into Task 7.4 on Wetlands and Water storage interactions]

• The main driver related to this issue (abuse of designation processes by destruction of natural wetland of international importance justified by development of internationally important human-made wetland in same area – e.g. reservoir) was actually addressed in text added to Strategic Framework at CoP9 and is contained within Handbook 14. Task group will review that text and assess whether is it adequate, and if not, whether further guidance is required and what form that might take.

Additional comments/information

Note that issue is sensitive with markedly different attitudes to the designation of human-made wetlands between Contracting Parties. Might be difficult to adequate develop appropriate guidance beyond that which already exists.

Issue with respect to terminology and implications: restoration, rehabilitation, re-creation, enhancement, conversion, …

Note links between sub-task i) and Restoration and Climate Change tasks. Also environmental flows etc. etc…

Task No. 8.1: Ramsar Site Criteria and Guidelines – ongoing review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In addition to specific tasks listed below concerning the Ramsar site Criteria, keep the Criteria and Guidelines as a whole under review on an ongoing basis to ensure that they reflect global wetland conservation and wise use priorities (ongoing STRP function).
(Resolution IX.2 task 112).

Task lead person:

Task force members

Type of product/output(s):

Draft Ramsar Technical Report - needs update to include CoP 9&10 developments and editing. Target for STRP consultation end June 2009.
[Stroud, D.A. (in draft). Selecting Ramsar sites: the development of criteria from 1971 to 2005. Ramsar Technical Report XX.]

Task will be delivered within the context of 8.4.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Task will be delivered within the context of 8.4. No separate activity needed.

Task No. 8.2: Population estimates for applying Ramsar site Criteria 6 & 9 -updating

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Periodically secure the updating (by other qualified bodies where appropriate) of the list of relevant population estimates and 1% thresholds for the application of Ramsar site Criteria 6 and 9 (ongoing STRP function).
(Resolution IX.1 Annex B, STRP14)

Task lead person:

David Stroud

Task force members

David Stroud, Wetlands International & IUCN-SSC

Type of product/output(s):

Updated population estimates for Criteria 6 & 9 as available:

• updated edition of Waterbird Population Estimates
• updated population estimates from IUCN-SSC as available – revised RTR.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Dialogue with Wetlands International needed re projected timetable and processes for delivering Waterbird Population Estimates to be undertaken in the context of Wetlands International’s Global Waterbird Advisory Group (WIGWAG) [May 2009].

Dialogue with IUCN-SSC needed about updating Criterion 9 population estimates in 2011.

Draft Ramsar Technical Report - Needs final edit only. Target for STRP consultation by end April 2008 at latest.
[Luedtke, J. Powell, A. & Stroud, D.A. (in draft). Population estimates and 1% thresholds for non-avian wetland-dependant fauna. Ramsar Technical Report XX.]

Task No. 8.5: Criterion 9 contextual information needs – review

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Conduct a specific review of the contextual information that can and should support the application of Criterion 9, and make recommendations in this regard.

Task lead person:

Task force members

Type of product/output(s):

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Propose deletion of this task as contextual background and further interpretation to Criterion 9 application is already provided by:
Luedtke, J. Powell, A. & Stroud, D.A. (in draft). Population estimates and 1% thresholds for non-avian wetland-dependant fauna. Ramsar Technical Report XX.

Task No.8.9: Management of formally confirmed transboundary Ramsar sites – review of case studies         

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Assess a selection of case studies drawn from the Transboundary Ramsar Sites initiative, in order to summarise the existing range of flexible options regarding the designation and management of formally confirmed Transboundary Ramsar Sites.
(Standing Committee Decision 38-6; COP10 plenary)

Task lead person:

To be confirmed

Task force members

Type of product/output(s):

Short information paper

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Not seen as priority for external funding.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Review information related to the 9-10 formally confirmed Transboundary Ramsar Sites using information in RIS and other related information (possibly involving consultation with the relevant Contracting Parties).

Additional comments/information

Suggest make explicit that the task relates just to those 9-10 sites that have been formally confirmed as Transboundary Ramsar Sites by the relevant Contracting Parties and not related to other wetlands that are either adjacent or straddle boundaries.

Thematic Work Area name:

Wetland management – restoration, mitigation & compensation

Thematic lead STRP member:

Kevin Erwin

Co-lead(s):

TBA

WorkingGroup Members

Tatiana Minaeva(WI CC GAP), Roy Gardner (Stetson Univ College of Law), Stanley Liphadzi (Water Research Commission), Lijuan Cui (Wetland ResearchCenter), Mike Acreman(Ctr for Ecology &Hydrology), Lew Young (Ramsar Secretariat), Sasha Koo-Oshima(UN FAO), Sonali Senaratna-Sellamuttu(IWMI),Archana Chatterjee(WWF),
Rob Mc Innes(SWS), Sasha Alexander(SER), Philipp Gerbeaux (Dept. of Conservation, NZ),Colin Lloyd(Ctr for Ecology & Hydrology), Mark Smith(IUCN), Randy Milton(NA Regional Rep)Maria Rivera (Senior Advisor-Americas), Ritesh Kumar(WI), Dave Pritchard(STRP), Heather MacKay( STRP Chair ), Kevin Erwin (STRP)

Task No. 9.1: Mitigation and compensation for wetland loss - guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Develop guidance on mitigation of and compensation for losses of wetland area and wetland values, in the context of Resolution X.16 on A Framework for processes of detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character, and including lessons learned from available information on implementation of “no net loss” policies, the “urgent national interest” test, and other aspects relating to situations in which Article 2.5 and 4.2 and/or Resolution VII.24 are relevant.
(Resolution IX.2 tasks 128 and 166, STRP14, Resolution X.16).

Task lead person:

Kevin Erwin

Task force members

Tatiana Minaeuva* Roy Gardner* Stanley Liphadzi Lijuan Cui* Mike Acreman Lew Young* Sasha Koo-Oshima* Sonali Senaratna-Sellamuttu Archana Chatterjee Maria Rivera* Ritesh Kumar* Rob Mc Innes* Sasha Alexander* Philippe Gerbeaux* Colin Lloyd*, Mark Smith Randy Milton* Dave Pritchard Kevin Erwin*

Type of product/output(s):

Draft methodologies, produce draft guidance, workshops, refine drafts, review by full STRP,
- Draft Resolution

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

20,000 CHF is estimated to fund time for an outside consultant to collect and synthesize information and to fund two small workshops

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

The scope of this task will include reference to the question of determining at what point, proposed or existing changes in a wetland’s ecological character would require mitigation and compensation for losses and the process required to assess the changes in a wetlands functional capacity as a result of positive or negative ecological change. (Dec 2009)

In the beginning of the scoping process the end users will be determined (e.g. contracting parties, TWAs and IOPs) and their input and needs, will be collected. (August 2009)

Early in the scoping process of this task definitions of terms will be produced. This step will ensure that all parties engaged in mitigation and compensation activities have the same understanding of the meaning of terms (e.g., restoration, rehabilitation, re-establishment, creation). This effort will start with a survey and synthesis of existing Ramsar, international and institutional definitions. The final peer-reviewed agreed definitions of mitigation, compensation, and related terms will be published and incorporated into future related documents. Dec 2009

The next task will be to collect and review relevant information on implementation of “no net loss” policies and review of national laws and policies regarding mitigation. Review-refer to “urgent national interest” case studies and how it relates to international importance. This information will be submitted to TWA 3 for evaluation and eventual incorporation. Dec 2009

Two small workshops (5 to 7 attendees) to be held to prepare working and final drafts of the guidance.
Nov 2009 and June 2010

If needed a brief CEPA report would be prepared at the beginning of this task to circulate advance the activities and process to organizations outside of Ramsar that have experience dealing with the topic of wetland mitigation and compensation. This will enhance the initial scoping. In addition, a recommendation will be made on how mitigation and compensation should apply to the MA framework. June 2009

Additional comments/information

Need to develop linkages with other TWAs and communication protocols. Having (SuSe) up as soon as possible is important.
Probable TWA links include;
Inventory, assessment…
Agriculture

Task No. 9.2: Wetlands restoration updating and expansion of guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare proposals for updating and expanding existing Ramsar guidance on restoration and rehabilitation of lost or degraded wetlands, in the context of Resolution X.16 on A Framework for processes of detecting, reporting and responding to change in ecological character, including approaches to prioritization and links with other Ramsar tools and guidance, inter alia those on climate change and on economic values of ecosystem services.
(Resolution IX.2 task 127, STRP 14, Resolution X.16, Resolution X.1: strategy 1.8).

Task lead person:

Kevin Erwin

Task force members

Tatiana Minaeva* Roy Gardner* Stanley Liphadzi Lijuan Cui* Mike Acreman Lew Young* Sasha Koo-Oshima* Sonali Senaratna-Sellamuttu Archana Chatterjee Maria Rivera*, Ritesh Kumar* Rob Mc Innes* Sasha Alexander*Philippe Gerbeaux* Colin Lloyd*Mark Smith Randy Milton* Dave Pritchard Kevin Erwin*

Type of product/output(s):

-Evaluation of existing Ramsar guidance
-Guidance and Handbook
-Possible COP11 Resolution

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

75,000 CHF (anticipate reducing with cost-sharing from partners when possible)
Six workshops, travel, small grants to consultants, report writing and publication

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

The strategy for the development of a new or modified guidance will begin at the watershed level and integrate wetland restoration and management at the end user level. Building from a general concept to a specific framework in time to present for discussion at mid-term meeting.
The existing Ramsar Guidance on wetland restoration was prepared for COP 8. Wetland restoration is now widely recognized as a significant issue at all levels of wetland management and conservation. It will be important early in this task to determine who are the primary end users of this guidance and extent of integration with other TWAs and other processes. Early comments from the STRP suggest the importance of targeting policy-makers/ wetland as well as managers to build their understanding of the issues related to wetland restoration at different scales. The task will then commence with an evaluation of existing Ramsar guidance documents dealing with wetland management and restoration. (Dec 2010)

Approximately three regional workshops would be planned for purpose of incorporating local needs and knowledge into developing guidance, including guidance for planning restoration at regional level. Obtaining consensus amongst the broad range of end users may not be possible, so the opportunities for their input into the guidance development is very important. (August 2009 through June 2010)

We anticipate a CEPA report at commencement of the task(6/10) to circulate in advance the anticipated activities and process to organizations outside of Ramsar that have experience dealing with the topic of wetland restoration, such as SERI,SWS, SCB, etc. This step will enhance the initial scoping. In addition, a recommendation will be made on how mitigation and compensation should apply to the MA framework. (Dec 2010)

The end product is envisaged to a revised Guidance document on wetland restoration and management along with a new Handbook developed on wetland restoration and management specifically for end users. More than one handbook may be appropriate given the diversity of end users. (Dec 2010)

During STRP 15 the consensus was for TWA 8 to complete Task 6.1(iii) and contribute to Task 6.1(i). A guidance document will be produced on how wetland management and restoration can contribute to improving adaptation to climate change. Feb 2011

Approximately three regional workshops would be planned for purpose of incorporating relevant science and policies into a guidance document. Nov 2009 through Sept 2010

Both guidance documents should incorporate protocols for the Guidance interfacing with other TWAs (see common threads below)

Additional comments/information

Guidance document working group (Rob, Mike, Tatiana, Ritesh, Maria Rivera, Lew, Cui, Kevin)

Common Threads with other TWA’s

“The need for technical information and advice related to wetland restoration is expected to far exceed some of the specific items of concern in the two TWA 8 tasks contained in the STRP Program for 2009-2012. One ongoing responsibility of this TWA will be to assist the other STRP thematic work areas in integrating wetland restoration science, strategies and practices into their tasks, as well as providing guidance for Contracting Parties as they seek to implement Ramsar strategies. This will require communication and consultation with other TWAs and Working Groups, particularly climate change, water, agriculture and health.”

Initial input from the other appropriate TWA leads may include;

TWA 1: Regional Networking: Utilize the network to assist in setting up and facilitating workshops to develop guidance while providing technical assistance to partners/end users.
TWA 2: Strategic, emerging and ongoing issues: Provide wetland management and restoration input on wise use of wetlands principals. Restoration of wetlands/watersheds will be an emerging issue.
TWA 3; Wetland Inventory: Provide assistance on Article 3.2 and help parties with suggestions and guidance relative to the significance and variability of ecological change.
TWA 4; Human Health: Implications of wetland restoration and management on improving/reducing human health. Provide advice to relevant health authorities to mitigate or promote.
TWA 5: Climate Change: Wetland restoration and management will be one of the tools applied to mitigating the effects of climate change, specifically as it relates to restoring and sustaining basin hydrology.
TWA 6: Water Resources Management: Advise on impacts/compensation/mitigation on proposed water projects. Interface with water management programs and organizations. Use wetland restoration as a tool at the watershed level of assessment and management.
TWA 7: Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites): Work with local managers to evaluate their management plans and where appropriate incorporate some restoration focused at mitigating changes in ecological character.
TWA 9: Agriculture: Provide input on reports (e.g. IWMI, FAO/GAWI) Good Wetland Agriculture Practices should include state of the art wetland management and restoration practice to mitigate drought and climate change
impacts. Provide advice on assessments.
TWA 10: CEPA: Utilize CEPA to target appropriate groups, organizations, meetings and prioritize at what level  
TWA8 should be involved.

Other activities undertaken by TWA 8 may include:
Publish RTR from published CC paper (Erwin, 2008).
Participate on Danone-IUCN Project
Promote wetland restoration as a part of World Wetlands Day and other international fora
Possible generation of new, priority tasks responding to needs of other TWAs and end users

Thematic Work Area name:

Wetlands & agriculture

Thematic lead STRP member:

George Lukacs

Co-lead(s):

Task No. 2.1: Agriculture and wetlands - guidelines

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

In the light of the outcomes of the “Comprehensive Assessment on water management in agriculture” (CA), the “Water for food and ecosystems” initiative and the “Guidelines on Agriculture and Wetland Interactions” (GAWI) Framework for guidance, contribute to the testing of existing guidance and/or development of further guidance on wetlands and agriculture interactions, in the context of Resolution VIII.34.
(Resolution IX.2 tasks 149 and 150, STRP 14)

Task lead person:

FAO (Sasha Koo-Oshima)

Task force members

Lukacs, McCartney, Horwitz, Finlayson, van dam, Lifeng Li, Young, Erwin, van Halsema, Wood

Type of product/output(s):

Ramsar technical report

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

1. Consultant costs to convene writing workshop to produce RTR (CHF650x 5 days) = CHF 3250
2. Travel costs for writing workshop (5 people)= CHF10000 (estimate)
3. NB: it is hoped that FAO-Dutch government. joint programme (FNPP) will support this Task. The FNPP would provide the financial resources for developing and evaluating the guidance within key geographical areas/agricultural systems. Final scope of this Ramsar task will be dependent on this support being secured.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

[to be further refined]

1. seek continuation of FNPP arrangement between the Dutch ministry and FAO for GAWI Phase 2.
2. Ramsar secretariat to formally write to FAO and Dutch Ministry top request continuing support for GAWI phase 2 as a tripartite arrangement in the development and evaluation of this guidance
3. Define key geographical areas/agricultural systems for use in guideline development – 3 potential work areas:

i) large scale irrigation in SE Asia and multiple use of supply waters
ii) rice paddies and multiple ecosystem services (link to other agricultural task on rice paddies)
iii)build on past FNPP activity with IWMI, Wetland Action, Wetlands International in sub Saharan Africa on small wetlands used for livelihood support

1. develop and test guidance based on the creating of a technical compendium for Good Agricultural Wetland Practices (GAWP) within the work areas:

--distinguishing in-situ and basin-wide practices
- target the introduction of wetland ecological criteria into GAPS (where that exists)
5) develop methodological guidance for acknowledging and revitalizing regulating, supporting cultural services in agricultural landscapes, particularly those in non- OECD countries.

Additional comments/information

Link with diseases task (Rebecca Lee)
Link with water resources/quality task (re pesticides) (see sasha Koo-Oshima FAO)
Linkage with urban-peri urban task (see McInnes)
Linkage with biofuel task (see Mark Smith)

Task No. 6.3: Biofuels and wetlands review and guidance [Moved from TWA5]

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

i)          review the global distribution of biofuel production in relation to impacts on
wetlands;
ii)          review and collate existing best management practice guidance and social and environmental sustainability criteria for growing biofuel feedstocks in relation to wetlands, and where appropriate develop such guidance and criteria;
iii)         consider further discussion between the Contracting Parties on addressing sustainable biofuel issues in relation to wetlands;
iv)         advise the Standing Committee of the conclusions; and
v)         work with relevant international bodies dealing with biofuels.

Task lead person:

IUCN (Mark Smith and IUCN Bioenergy team)

Task force members

Lukacs, McCartney (IWMI), Kumar (WI), Koo-Oshima (FAO), Young, van Dam (UNESCO-IHE), Lifeng (WWF), D’Cruz, Milton, Lloyd, Gerbaux, Minaeva (CC GAP), Grobicki (GWP)

Type of product/output(s):

1. Special Issue
2. Annotated bibliography and metadatabase
3. Ramsar Technical Report

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

1. Mini-symposium: Travel costs (limited to 10 people) for x days. Estimate ~CHF20,000
2. Source of information: Minimal cost
3. Impacts: Consultants - estimate 30 days x CHF650 = CHF19,500
      Travel – costs limited to 3 people for writing workshop = CHF6,000 (estimate)

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Objectives
NB: A staged approach is proposed to meet the needs of the Task with this triennium only focusing on reviewing the global distribution of biofuels and their impacts on wetlands.

1. Identification of key contacts and Stakeholder Committee from food, water/environment and development sectors, including information exchange via a technical mini-symposium.

It is clear there are many potential stakeholders associated with this Task. A Stakeholder Committee will be constituted at project initiation to represent the key players across the food, water/environment and development sectors and to work with the Ramsar Task lead(s) and Taskforce members. The Committee will organize a Ramsar mini-symposium on wetlands and biofuels with stakeholders presenting the latest knowledge on the interaction of biofuel production/markets/trends with impacts on wetland ecosystem services. The mini-symposium should seek to coincide with another relevant conference/meeting (advice from steering committee/CEPA needed) and be in a readily accessible location. Output from the mini-symposium should be published as a journal Special Issue. (DECEMBER 2010)

2. Identification of sources of information on biofuel production
[Needs refinement]
Taskforce members have identified potentially a range of information sources;
1. FAO – i) Task Group and 10 expert groups have produced synthesis and supporting document on biofuels, ii) modeled outputs and land & water constraints to biofuel production, ii) Biofuel & Livelihoods project (biofuels and food security project), iv) joint IWMI workshop on water use and biofuels.
2. IUCN Bioenergy team….
3. IWMI - Global modeling of water requirements of biofuel production undertaken for CA
4. WI - Summary of side event at COP10 and outputs from Roundtable on Sustainable Palm oil
5. WWF - Bioenergy position paper/Roundtable on Bioenergy
Output to be meta-database with annotated bibliography on wetlands and biofuels (JUNE 2010)

3. Identification of impacts
[Needs refinement]
1. Identification of possible analytical tools (eg models of global change)
2. Mapping of production systems vs wetland assets (eg GIS layer)
3. Risk assessment based on primary impacts (greenfield development sites; changes in existing land uses) and secondary impacts (eg changes in food security and resultant impacts on wetlands).
4. Writing workshop to compile report.
Output to be Ramsar Technical Report
(DECEMBER 2011)

Additional comments/information

1. Task links with energy sector review
2. Link with CBD process on biofuel production (See David Coates) to build on work already underway in relation to biofuels, water and biodiversity
3. Link with information from recent North American conference on biofuels and wildlife (See Randy Milton)

Task No. 2.2: Agriculture and wetlands – advice on assessments    

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Prepare further advice to the Contracting Parties on the interrelated Comprehensive Assessment of Water Management in Agriculture (IWMI, CGIAR initiative) and Global Environment Outlook-4 (GEO-4) of UNEP.
(STRP14, Resolution X.18)

Task lead person:

Finlayson

Task force members

Lukacs, McCartney, Koo-Oshima

Type of product/output(s):

Ramsar Technical Report

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Nil

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Compile information paper based on STRP12 list of questions, Comprehensive Assessment, GEO-4 Report, UNESCO 3rd WWDR and FAO/GAWI report /October 09). Request FAO consider the information paper as part of forthcoming State of Land and Water (SOLAW) report and seek ongoing role for Ramsar STRP in development of SOLAW.

Additional comments/information

Draft information paper substantially complete minus consideration of GAWI and UNESCO documents.

Task No. 2.14: Agriculture and Wetlands - Rice paddy biodiversity and management

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

i)       prepare a technical report on the role of rice paddy in supporting the conservation of wetland biodiversity and the delivery of wetland ecosystem services, taking into account differences in the ways in which rice fields are managed, considering also the work of the GAWI partnership; and
ii)       review, disseminate, and exchange available guidance and information related to rice paddy planning, management practices and training on sustainable rice farming that protect or enhance wetland biodiversity and ecosystem services while also supporting essential food production, in collaboration especially with FAO, IWMI, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the Africa Rice Centre (WARDA), the GAWI partnership, and others.

Task lead person:

Task force members

Type of product/output(s):

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

n/a

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Rice paddies and biodiversity to be considered as part of HIGH PRIORITY task 2.1
Since the high priority task 2.1 includes rice paddy as one of the agricultural system to be reviewed, STRP considered that we would not recommend advancing task 2.14 as part of our 2009-2012 work programme.

Thematic Work Area name:

Communication, education, participation & awareness (CEPA)

Thematic lead STRP member:

Christine Prietto

Co-lead(s):

There is no co-lead but this Working Group is strongly supported by the Secretariat’s CEPA Programme Officer Sandra Hails

Task No. 10.1: Optimal presentation of Ramsar guidance – further advice [STRP considered this task as High Priority]

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Make further contributions to proposals concerning optimal presentation of scientific and technical aspects of Ramsar guidance in the light of findings from reviews of uptake and effectiveness of existing guidance, and in conjunction with actions flowing from Resolution IX.17 concerning consolidation and retrial of COP decisions.
(Resolution IX.2 tasks 3 & 5, STRP14).

Task lead person:

Christine Prietto

Task force members

Working Group 10: Heather Mackay, Rebecca D’Cruz, David Pritchard, Pierre Horwitz, Mike Acreman, David Stroud, Rob McInnis, George Lukacs, Max, Finlayson, Kevin Irwin
with assistance from Secretariat Regional Staff and Regional Networks

Type of product/output(s):

Product 1: Technical Report on the Review of Guidance
Product 2: Set of Principles to guide the development of future guidance.

Target Group: STRP and Secretariat staff

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant?

Consultant for finalisation of Review of Guidance

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

2009 Product 1.
Engage a consultant to finalise the Review of Guidance into a Technical Report to be made available.

2009-2010 Product 2.
Develop a draft set of Principals using advice from the Review of Guidance
Use the guidance to define the subsets of users within the cohort of stakeholders refereed to as Wetland Site Managers
Work with WG10 members to review the draft principles and the profiles of existing Wetland Managers
Use an existing guidance such as Identifying Ramsar Sites, review the suitability of this guidance in light of the draft principles and the user group profiles to further refine the draft Principles
Consultation: Refer the draft principles to the following groups: Secretariat Staff, Regional Networks
Use feedback to finalise the set of Principles for developing guidance to better meet the needs and context of individual user groups.
Make the draft principles available to those working groups developing new guidance.

Additional comments/information

This task has relevance for the work of many Working Groups, especially those that are considering new guidance. It may also have relevance for Task 8.3 User-needs review towards the development of new guidance on selection of Ramsar sites for particular wetland types.

Task No. 10.3: Assessing capacity-building needs of Contracting Party in applying Ramsar guidance

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Develop effective ways of providing training and capacity-building for relevant stakeholders in Contracting Parties to assist with the interpretation and implementation of scientific and technical guidance and other materials prepared by STRP, with the assessment and definition of future needs.
(STRP14, STRP Chair at SC36).

Task lead person:

Christine Prietto

Task force members

Working Group 10: Heather Mackay, Rebecca D’Cruz, David Pritchard, Pierre Horwitz, Mike Acreman, David Stroud, Rob McInnis, George Lukacs, Max, Finlayson, Kevin Irwin, Rebecca Lee, Anne Van Dam, Sandra Hails
Members of Working Group 1, Regional Advisors and Network, representatives from the Advisory Board on Capacity-Building.

Type of product/output(s):

Scoping study regarding the optimum Capacity-building approaches for Contracting Parties to support their use of Guidance
Target Group: Contracting Parties

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant?

An opportunity to meet with representatives of the Advisory Board will be identified, linking with another meeting if possible.
Consultation with Regional Advisors and their networks will be used to identify the optimum approaches and potentially to assist in the development and delivery of products identified in the consultation phase that are best suited to the needs of the Target audience.
Consultation may result in a recommendation regarding the appointment of an expert to develop and deliver training.
A proposed budget of CHF 15000 is shown against this work area. If the Task proceeds to the design and delivery of training, this will be insufficient for delivery.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

2009
Phase 1
Workshop to clarify the capacity-building needs of Contracting Parties regarding application of Guidance
Involve Regional Advisors and their networks, the Advisory Board on Capacity Building, members of the CEPA Oversight Panel
Ask the Regional Advisors to assist with setting up a Contracting Parties Reference Group
With assistance from this group and the regional advisors, identify the specific Guidance products which represent the greatest challenge to Contracting Parties
Look at advice from National reports
Investigate the following areas: process, access, labeling, institutional capacity.
Seek advice from all other channels (e.g., IOPs) to get their perspective on the needs of Contracting Parties
Review the Framework on Capacity Building being developed by the Advisory Board in light of the findings identified in the scoping exercise.
Complete a short report on the findings to confirm going forward with Phase 2
Initiate development of training program only if the work above indicates that this is needed.

Phase 2 (to be confirmed)
Discuss models for delivery
Agree on the optimum approach for the Target group
Agree on delivery mechanisms
Conduct consultation through Regional Advisors and Regional Networks to gain feedback on proposal
2011
Work with existing training processes
Investigate whether there is an opportunity to cooperate with IOPs for delivery of training.
Seek opportunities to trial capacity-building approach with Target Group in a workshop format to be delivered at a regional level.
Revise capacity building products
Develop strategy for promotion and distribution of capacity-building products

2012
Promote Guidance Training Package at COP 11

Additional comments/information

This task will be designed and conducted in collaboration with Working Group 1 and the Regional Advisors and the Advisory Board on Capacity Building with additional advice from IOPs If possible the capacity-building workshop will be delivered with assistance from one of the Regional Centres

Task No. 10.4: Promoting the STRP Work plan

Task description

 This has been put forward as a new Task during STRP 15. It involves developing a concise version of the STRP Work Plan for 2009-2012 using words and graphics

Task lead person:

Christine Prietto

Task force members

Sandra Hails, Heather Mackay, Rebecca D’Cruz

Type of product/output(s):

Short Summary of the STRP Work Plan 2009-2012

Target Group: All STRP Focal Points, General Constituency, other Scientific Arenas and Social Arenas where relevant
Purpose: Give Target audiences early advice on the priority work areas
     Let stakeholders know how they can keep track of the work, contribute to the work where relevant
     Make STRP Work more transparent

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Develop a short version of the STRP Work Plan 2009-2012 to profile the work areas and identify the leads for those work areas.
Identify the best distribution process for the target audience
Finalise the format for each of the target audiences

Additional comments/information

This task has arisen during STRP 15 in light of discussions on rationale for and potential benefits to be gained from promotion of the STRP work plan to a broader audience early in the Triennium.

Task No. 10.5: Providing tools to improve planning and cross-linkages in the STRP Work Programme

Task Description

This has been put forward as a new Task during STRP 15. It involves developing a mapping tool to improve planning of the STRP scope of work early in the triennium and to identify links with key international processes to optimize opportunities for engagement.

Task lead person:

Christine Prietto

Task force members

Rebecca D’Cruz, Sandra Hails, Chris Gordon

Type of product/output(s):

Planning Tool for STRP
Target Group: STRP Working Groups, Secretariat Staff
Purpose:to improve STRP planning processes by identifying and clarifying the links between tasks. This will assist WG Leads to see the connections with related and/or overlapping tasks and to identify those which will be producing relevant outcomes and those which are similar enough to suggest closer cooperation.
Identify the key international processes relevant to the work of the STRP which need to be engaged with to assist with the staging and delivery of tasks and products.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Conduct a mapping exercise at the start of the triennium that shows the links between the Tasks identified by all of the working groups and the key international processes which have relevance of the work of the STRP.
Revisit this regularly to further define how it might be used.
Continue to refine the mapping tool.

Additional comments/information

This task has arisen during STRP 15 in light of discussions on rationale for and potential benefits to be gained from additional planning mechanisms to assure that opportunities for cooperation and or staging are identified early in the triennium.

Task No. 10.6: Planning for STRP Participation in COP 11

Task Description

This has been put forward as a new Task during STRP 15. It involves gathering advice from STRP Participation in COP 10 and using this advice to develop a plan for participation in COP11.

Task lead person:

Christine Prietto

Task force members

Rebecca D’Cruz, Sandra Hails, Dave Pritchard, Ritesh Kumar, Rob McInnes, Heather MacKay, Nick Davidson, Monica Zavagli

Type of product/output(s):

Long Term Participation Plan for COP 11

Target Group: STRP, Secretariat Staff

Purpose: to maximise the opportunity presented by the COP to engage with Contracting Parties and plan for the involvement of the STRP in the Convention Processes.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant?

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Gather advice at STRP 15 on the STRP participation in COP 10
Collect ideas on potential for improving this participation at COP 11
Seek advice from IOPs and Contracting parties on how STRP can best support the parties at COP11
Plan and coordinate STRP contributions to and participation in COP11

Additional comments/information

This task has arisen during STRP 15 in light of discussions on the positive feedback on STRP participation in COP 10.

Task No. 1.4: CEPA advice on guidance preparation

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Ensure that the preparation of STRP guidance and advice materials draws fully on expertise available to the Convention concerning Communication, Education, Participation and Awareness (CEPA) in order to optimize the effective drafting, design, targeting and uptake of such materials; and ensure that CEPA experts also contribute to promoting and researching uptake of such materials and the scientific and technical profile of the Convention in general, including the ongoing documentation of lessons learned. (see also related tasks in section 10 CEPA.)
(Annex to Resolution IX.11, Resolution IX.2 task 152)

Task lead person:

Christine Prietto

Task force members

All STRP Working Groups, assistance from Secretariat to prioritise tasks

Type of product/output(s):

Face-to-face contribution to/ participation in other STRP work areas

Target Group: All STRP Working Groups

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant?

15,000 CHF

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

Prioritise the tasks in which face to face participation will be beneficial
Submit travel budget when opportunities are finalized.

Additional comments/information

This budget will be reserved to cover the active participation of the CEPA lead in workshops or meetings related to priority work areas identified at STRP 15.

Task No. 10.2: Preparation of outreach materials based on STRP substantive guidances

Task description (from Res X.10 Annex II)

Seek opportunities to prepare materials for outreach purposes, particularly for decision-makers and other key stakeholders in relevant sectors, to support increased awareness and understanding on topics that are the subject of substantive guidance prepared by the STRP.
(Resolution IX.2 task 153).

Task lead person:

Christine Prietto

Task force members

Working Group 10: Heather Mackay, Rebecca D’Cruz, David Pritchard, Pierre Horwitz, Mike Acreman, David Stroud, Rob McInnis, George Lukacs, Max, Finlayson, Kevin Irwin, Sandra Hails
With assistance from Secretariat Regional Staff and Regional Networks

Type of product/output(s):

Guide to the Ramsar Guidance for Wetland Site Managers
Primary Target Group: Wetland Site Managers
Purpose: the Brochure will promote to Site Managers the full range of guidance docs that are available to assist Wetland managers with the management of their Ramsar sites.

Funds needed for contracting an expert consultant ?

Design consultant may be required.

Approach/steps (including timelines) for delivering the work:

2010-2011
Use the work done on profiling the cohort referred to as Wetland Site Managers under Task 10.1.
Review the guidance to identify the Handbooks that are most relevant for Site Managers.
Develop a guide to the guidance for this target group which promotes those Handbooks, explains where they might be useful and directs Site Managers to other information that will assist them in their work.

Additional comments/information

This Task will use the advice obtained from the Review of guidance conducted by the STRP through the CEPA Working Group in 2006-2008. It will also follow on from the work done under Task 10.1. It will be produced with advice from all Working Groups and with specific advice from the Secretariat staff, Working Group 1 and the Regional Networks.