Analysis of the management approach: applied at Għadira nature reserve

Abstract

Protected areas are important entities for the conservation of biological diversity and also for environmental education. The present study looks at the landscape modifications, which took place at Ghadira Nature Reserve, a protected area Furthermore, the study investigates how the site has been 'managed' since the early eighties to the present day. Therefore before any attempt to manage a protected area and effect any changes, it is important that the managing entity, be it a steering committee or an NGO becomes acquainted with assets and various existing landuse components within the area in question. The study envisages to examine and analyse the existent administrative structures and manner by which the area is being managed. It also sets about conducting ethnographic interviews with key actors and stakeholders involved. A thorough land cover survey was also carried out so as to gather data on the different land cover components including natural, semi-natural and planted vegetation, which occurs within the precincts of the reserve. Further more the study examines existing documents, recommendations and management proposals that were put forward respectively, 1980 and 1999. As a result of this analysis, a critique is made on the various management proposals made, from which new management recommendations emanate.