A management framework for Tal-Wej

Abstract

The semi-agricultural site known as Tal-Wej, located between Naxxar and Mosta, is a site of archaeological, geological, geomorphological, hydrological and ecological importance. Today it is most commonly used by dog-walkers. However, it is currently in a state of degradation, which can be noted in its numerous assets. The site boasts assets such as numerous Punic tombs, rubble walls, cart ruts and a habitat for the Tadpole Shrimp (Triops cancriformis) and the Painted Frog (Discoglossus pictus pictus). Two methods were used to obtain the data: a survey to gauge site user opinion and a ground-truth survey to quantify and map the assets and features. The data gathered was then analysed using SPSS, NVivo and QGIS. The most important assets at Tal-Wej per its users were open space, nature and the ability to let your dog off the leash. Only half the respondents were aware of the ecological importance of the freshwater rock pools. Overall, despite the state of degradation, the majority of users were satisfied with the site. Moreover, all dog-walking respondents found the site satisfactory for their dogwalking needs. Respondents that were dissatisfied with the site suggested regular maintenance and upkeep be carried out on site, whilst dog-walkers were keen on the addition of dog bins on site. It is recommended that a mixture of entities manage and maintain the site. Maintenance and upkeep recommendations involve the cleaning out of the archaeological features, the reconstruction of rubble walls and clean-ups on site for anthropogenic litter. Although most users were in favour of site improvement, many exerted caution in features such as sign-posts increasing the number of users onsite.