ANTARTIC TREATY Decree 274/95 Approved Recommendations adopted at the XVI Consultative Meeting of the Treaty.

Bs. As., 9/8/95

VISTO the Sixteenth Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting held between 7 and 18 October 1991 in the city of Bonn, Federal Republic of Germany, and

CONSIDERING:

That the Argentine Republic, in its capacity as an Advisory Party to the above-mentioned international instrument approved by Law 15.802, was represented at the event by delegates in a timely manner designated for that purpose.

On that occasion, Thirteen (13) Recommendations which, in accordance with article IX of the Antarctic Treaty, shall enter into force when approved by all Contracting Parties with the authority to participate in the Consultative Meetings.

It is up to the dictation of this act to adopt the recommendations mentioned in the previous consideration.

That jurisdictions with competence on the subject have favourably pronounced on the measure.

This Decree is issued in the use of the powers provided for in article 99, paragraph 1, of the National Constitution.

Therefore,

THE PRESIDENT OF THE ARGENTINA NATION

RIGHT:

Article 1 las Approve the Thirteen (13) Recommendations adopted at the XVI Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, held in Bonn, Federal Republic of Germany from 7 to 18 October 1991, the text of which is annexed to this Decree.

Art. 2o o Please provide this approval to the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties.

Art. 3o . Communicate, publish, give to the National Directorate of the Official Register and archvese. Guido Di Tella. . Oscar H. Camilión.

RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED AT THE XVI ADVISORY MEETING OF THE

XVI - 1

INTERCHANGE OF INFORMATION

Representatives,

Recalling the provisions of Articles III and VII of the Antarctic Treaty;

Noting that their Governments give way, in their national legislation, to their obligations under the agreements reached, in the consultative meetings of the Antarctic Treaty;

Noting that the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Focas, the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Resources and the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on the Protection of the Environment provide that Parties should exchange information on such national legislations;

Notingthat this obligation did not so far apply to obligations arising from the recommendations adopted at the consultative meetings;

Aware that knowledge of the respective national legislation may interest other Consultative Parties;

Recommend to their Governments to include in their exchange of information provided for in Article VII, paragraph 5, of the Antarctic Treaty information on any national legislation enacted to give effect to the Antarctic Treaty and obligations arising from the recommendations adopted at the Antarctic Treaty consultative meetings.

XVI - 2

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

New Sites of Special Scientific Interest

The Representatives.

Recalling recommendations VIII - 3 and VIII - 4;

Taking note that the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) has prepared and approved Management Plans for some Special Scientific Interest Sites in addition to those already designated;

Considering that it would be useful to accumulate experience on the specific implications of the Management Plans prepared for these sites;

Recommend to their Governments to take deliberately into consideration the Management Plans, annexed to this Recommendation, for the following sites:

Site No. 33	Ardley Island, Maxwel Bay, King George Island, South Shetland Islands. (Location: 62 degrees 13 minutes S, 58 degrees 54 minutes O).
Site No. 34	Anca de León, Isla del Rey Jorge, South Shetland Islands. (Location: 62 degrees 08 minutes S, 58 degrees 08 minutes O).

Annex I to Recommendation XVI - 2

Special Scientific Interest Site No. 33. Ardley Island. Maxwell Bay, King George Island.

1. Geographical location

Ardley Island (62 degrees 13 minutes S, 58 degrees 54 minutes O) is located about 500 m east of the coast of the Phildes Peninsula, Maxwell Bay, King George Island. It is located about 1 km southeast of the Bellinghausen Soviet station and the Chilean station Lieutenant Marsh and about 0.5 km east of Gran Muralla Chinese station.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the site

The site comprises the entire island and its coastal area, including the isthmus between the island and the Phildes Peninsula to the west. The island is about 2 km long and 1.5 km long. in its widest part, and rises to about 50 m. of altitude. It consists essentially of both tertiary andesytic tobas and some coastal terraces. It's free of snow and ice in summer. In the southwest of the island is a small fresh water lagoon (about 100 m long). Near Braillard Point there is a hut of refuge (RFA) and two other shelters (Argentina, Chile), which consist of several huzas, are located at half a height of the north coast of the island.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The site has a special biological interest in the diversity of marine birds, with 12 indigenous species. It is particularly important for its breeding colonies of penguins gentús (pygoscelis papua), some 4000 pairs on average, which represent the largest concentration of gentús in the South Shetland Islands and probably in Antarctica. There are also about 1200 Adelia penguin couples (Pygoscelis adeliae) and some marked-faced penguins (P. Antartica). Among the other indigenous species of particular importance are the giant southern petreles (Macronectes giantus), Wilson's paiños (Oceanites oceanicus), and the black belly paiños (Fregatta tropica).

The island has one of the largest and most developed flora of the South Shetland Islands, especially the ecosystem of the summits dominated by macro lichens (Himantormía lugubris. Usnea spp). This vegetacon is extremely sensitive to human interventions and can be easily damaged.

(iii) Research outline

Chilean, East and West German scientists have been conducting detailed ornithological and botanical research on Ardley Island for many years, as well as short studies conducted by scientists from other national stations in the area.

The results obtained after ten years of studies, initiated in 1979, on the population and reproduction of the Pygdophid penguins reveal significant seasonal fluctuations in the number and capacity of reproduction of each species. Also, the population of giant petreles has decreased by 80% for some years. It is clearly shown that these alterations in populations are the direct consequence of the discomfort caused by the number of visitors, by vehicles and by aircraft flying at low altitudes. The effects of these impacts will continue to be monitored as an integral part of long-term ornithological research carried out on this site. Detailed research has been undertaken on the phytosociology of the island's vegetation as well as on the physiology of selected species of lichens. New botanical, zoological and coastal land research is planned. Because of the utmost importance of this area for biological research, it is necessary to protect it against the serious threats of human interventions in order to minimize its impact on this exceptional ecosystem.

(iv) Date the designation expires

On 31 December 2001.

(v) Access points

None have been specified, although groups of more than five people should not enter the site by sea anywhere east of a south north line passing by the lighthouse on the middle of the northern coast of the island.

(vi) Routes for pedestrians and vehicles

Where possible, the pedestrian crossing must be limited to areas covered by little vegetation and avoid any breeding site of birds, except where necessary to conduct previously approved research. Tourists and non-scientific staff of the stations and the ships can only visit the designated area for this purpose (see (ix) to disrupt the biota as little as possible. The use of all types of vehicles, including amphibian vehicles on land, is prohibited. Helicopter must not land on the island or fly over it at less than 300 metres high. Airplanes that take off the Lt. Marsh station track or land on it must avoid flying over the island.

(vii) Other types of scientific research that would not cause harmful interference

Other scientific research can be allowed whenever its impact on biota and ecosystems is minimal. At the end of a study, all markers or constructions related to experiments in the field must be removed.

(viii) Scientific

All activities aimed at grouping, capturing, killing, etc., any bird must conform to the Convinced Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora. Any other sampling will be limited to the minimum required for the respective studies.

(ix) Other constraints

Only groups of up to 20 people can visit the island. These groups will have access only to the "Tourist Zones" indicated on the map, that is the north coast of the island up to 300 m. west of Braillard Point and 300 m. west of the Chilean refuge, up to a height of 20 m above sea level. A guide, facilitated by the national station that approves the visit, will accompany the groups and assume responsibility for the visit. The Site Management Plan, Convinced Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora and ongoing research programmes should be fully known. Dog entry is not authorized, not even to pull sleds. All human waste will be removed from the site and will be brought back to the source station: no fuel material will be incinerated on the site.

Annex 2 to Recommendation XVI - 2

Site of Special Scientific Interest No. 34 Anca de León, Isla del Rey Jorge, Shetland del Sur.

1. Geographical location

The site is located on the south coast of King George Bay, King George Island, South Shetland Islands and is bound by the following coordinates:

62o07'48"S,58o09'17"O.

62o07'49"S,58o07'14"O.

62o08'19"S,58o07'19"O.

62o08'16"S,58o09'15"O.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the site

The site called Anca de León is a high rocky hill located between the southern end of the Bay of King George and the Cove of the Lion. It includes the coastline and sublitoral that extends from the eastern end of the Peñasco Lajkornik to the point more north of the Isle of the Twin Summits and, from this point, to the east end of the Cabeza de León column upholstery east of the white Aguila glacier. On the ground, the site includes the coastal line of emersion beaches, the lagoons and fresh water streams on the south side of the Bay of King George and, around the Cala del León, the brunettes and slopes that lead to the lower ice tongue of the Aguila Blanca glacier and, west, the small brunettes that roast through the ice cap to the southeast of the Sukienn Mountains. Anca de León consists of tertiary lavas and tufas with thin intercalations of brown coal and silified wood fragments. The brunette west of the Cala del León is made up of several holocene traces of the advance and glacier retreat. There is a small refuge near the coast, near the main stream of the site, about 300 m west of Anca de León.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The site is representative of the terrestrial, limnological and coastal ecosystems of King George Island and has varied biota and rock formations.

It contains a rich flora, especially lichens and the two indigenous species of vascular plants, Colobanthus quitensis and Deschampsia antartica, are found there frequently. Twelve species of birds nest on the site, among them several colonies of three species of Pygdog penguins: Adelia, with a marked face and gentu. On the beaches there are a large number of sea elephants and southern sea bears. It is a very rich part of the coastal ecosystem that has not been disturbed by human activities, except the biological, geological and geomorphological studies carried out on the site.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

July 1990, Poland.

On 31 December 2001.

(v) Access points

By sea, you will have to reach near the mouth of the main current of the site, about 300 meters west of Anca de León. The landing of helicopters should be restricted to the area south of the southern limit of the site, so as not to disturb the fauna.

(vi) Income permit requirement

It may only enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be attained elsewhere or for the inspection of the site and without endangering any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora).

However, access to the site will not be limited to groups wishing only to go through or through it for genuine scientific research on the site. These groups should go through the site as quickly as possible and not cause any disturbance. Details of the visit should be included in the national annual report on information exchange for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out. The research groups that go through the site, according to the above-mentioned permission, will also submit a report of their visit in the same way.

(vii) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, the following activities are prohibited:

(a) Drive any vehicle on the site;

(b) landing with helicopters on the site;

c) overflew the site with any type of aircraft at a height below 250 m. from its highest point:

(d) To anchor or lure any type of boat on the site, except when authorized by the permit;

(e) Incinerate, bury or otherwise remove any kind of human waste on the site;

(f) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies on the site, unless they are required again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

g) build any type of building in addition to the existing shelter on the site.

(viii) Routes for pedestrians

No specification has been made, but precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing birds and seals during the breeding period and to step on the vegetation unless necessary for the activities stipulated in the permit.

(ix) Scientific research and sampling

All activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in the entry permit in the area.

(x) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should be undertaken at least every 5 years to assess the status of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental changes. Other visits will be made when it is necessary to carry out the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

XVI - 3

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

New Marine Sites of Special Scientific Interest

The Representatives.

Recalling Article II of the Antarctic Treaty and Recommendations VII - 3, VIII - 3 and XIV - 6;

Noting that the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) has prepared and approved Management Plans for two Marine Sites of Special Scientific Interest;

Considering that experience on the specific impact of management plans prepared for such sites should be accumulated;

They recommend that their Governments deliberately take into account the Management Plans; annexes to this Recommendation, for the following sites:

No. 35 Western Strait of Bransfield, opposite Low Island, South Shetland Islands;

No 36 East Dallman Bay, in front of Brabant Island.

Annex 1 to Recommendation XVI - 3

Marine Site of Special Scientific Interest No. 35 Western Strait of Bransfield.

1. Geographical location

The site is located opposite the southern coast of the Low Island, west of the South Shetland Islands, between 63o20'S and 63o35'S latitudes and between 61o45'O and 62o30'O longitudes (according to Map No. 29.121 of the mapping Agency Hydrographic/Topographic Center of the United States Ministry of Defence). A small portion of the land and snow mass of the Low Island is projected towards the northern boundary of this area; there, the northern boundary of the site will be the intermarean zone. To the east, west and south of the island, the bottom gently descends from the intermarean area to depths of about 200 meters and then quickly descends near the limits of the site.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the site

The bottom consists of a matrix of sand, mud and pebbles and contains a rich bentos, with numerous species of fish and invertebrates (sponges, anemones, anélides, molluscs, crustaceans, asteroids, ofiuroids, equinoids, holoturioids, brachypodes, tunicados) and marine plants, in several different communities. Among the fish species commonly found near the Low Island are the following: Notothenia gibberifrons, Chaenocephalus aceratus, Harpagifer bispinis. Parachaenichthys Charcoti. Trematomus newnesi and N. corticeps neglecta. Among the rarest species are Pseudochaenichthys georgianus, Champsocephalus gunnari and Chionodraco tracespinosus. In addition, the Low Island platform appears to be a range of several species of species (e.g. N. corliceps neglecta and the C. aceratus ice fish).

(ii) Reason for its designation

The shallow platform of the Low Island is one of the two only known sites near the Palmer Station that suit the trawling in deep fish and other benthic organisms. From an ecological point of view, the Low Island site offers unique opportunities to undertake studies on the composition, structure and dynamics of several easily accessible marine communities. The site, and in particular its benthic fauna, is of exceptional scientific interest and requires long-term protection against any harmful interference.

(iii) Research outline

The scientists at the Palmer Station began studying this area in the early 1970s. The current research program uses Low Island fish to study biochemical adaptations that allow proteins to operate at low temperatures, as well as the physiological adaptation of muscles and energy metabolism at low temperatures. These studies are carried out every year during the southern summer.

(iv) Date the designation expires

On 31 December 2001.

(v) Access points

You can enter by any of the points delimiting the site. The free passage of ships is permitted on the site.

(vi) Routes for pedestrians and vehicles

No way.

(vii) Other types of scientific research that would not cause harmful interference.

The studies of the marine soil and its bentos through any method shall be limited to what is strictly necessary for the research activities and shall be carried out in such a way that the site is disturbed at least possible.

(viii) Scientific

The sampling of the marine soil and its bentos through any method shall be limited to what is strictly necessary for the research activities and shall be carried out in such a way that the site is disturbed at least possible.

(ix) Other constraints

As far as possible, ships will avoid anchoring within the limits of the site.

Annex 2 to Recommendation XVI - 3

Special Scientific Interest Marine Site No. 36 East Dallmann Bay

1. Geographical location

The site is located in East Dallmann Bay opposite the west coast of Brabant Island. Palmer Archipelago, between latitudes 64oOO'S and 64o20'S and from the length 62o50'O to the east of the intermarean zone of the western coast of the island (according to Map No. 29.121 of the Mapping Agency Hydrographic/Topographic Center of the United States Ministry of Defence). To the east of Brabant Island the background forms a platform that descends gently from the intermarean area to depths of about 200 meters and then quickly descends near the western limits of the site.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the site

The bottom consists of a matrix of sand, mud and pebbles and contains a rich bentos, with numerous species of fish and invertebrates (sponges, anemones, anélides, molluscs, crustaceans, asteroids, ofluroids, equinoids, holoturioids, brachypodes, tunicados) and marine plants. Among the fish species commonly found in the East Bay of Dallmann, mention should be made of: Notohenia Gibberifrons, Chaenocephalus aceratus, Champsocephalus gunnari, Pseudochaenichthys georgianus and Chionodraco tracespinosus. The specimens of Trematomus newnesi and Notothenia coriceps neglecta are rare in this area.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The shallow platform west of the East Bay of Dallmann is one of the two only known sites near the Palmer Station that contain for deep trawling of fish and other benthic organisms. The site, in particular its benthic fauna, is of exceptional scientific interest and requires long-term protection against any harmful interference.

(iii) Research outline

The scientists at the Palmer Station began studying this area at the beginning of the 1970s. The current research program uses fish from the East Bay of Dallmann to study biochemical adoptions that allow proteins to operate at low temperatures, as well as the physiological adaptation of muscles and energy metabolism at low temperatures.

(iv) Date the designation expires

On 31 December 2001.

(v) Access points

You can enter by any of the points delimiting the site. The free passage of ships is permitted on this site.

(vi) Routes for pedestrians and vehicles

No way.

(vii) Other types of scientific research that would not cause harmful interference

Ecological studies of the composition, structure and dynamics of marine communities would not be harmful.

(viii) Scientific body.

The sampling of the marine soil and its bentos through any method shall be limited to what is strictly necessary for the research activities and shall be carried out in such a way that the site is disturbed at least possible.

(ix) Other constraints

As far as possible, ships will avoid anchoring within the limits of the site.

XVI-4

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

Specially Protected Areas

New Designation of the Special Scientific Interest Site No. 30, Avian Island, Margarita Bay, Antarctic Peninsula as Specially Protected Area No. 21.

The Representatives.

Recalling Recommendations XV - 8 and XV - 9;

Taking note that the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) has adopted a Management Plan;

Considering that Avian Island, together with its coastal zone, is unique in the region of the Antarctic Peninsula for the abundance and diversity of the marine birds that reproduce there, among them the penguins of Adelia, the imperial cormorants, the giant petreles, the Dominican seagulls, the southern pamphlets and Wilson's padding; that the colony of Penguins is most authoritative

Recommend to their Governments:

(i) End the designation of Avian Island, pursuant to Recommendations VIII - 3 and VIII - 4, as a Special Scientific Interest Site No. 30;

(ii) Number 30 is not used for another Special Scientific Interest Site: that the following area of exceptional ornithological interest is included in Annex B, Specially Protected Areas, of the Conventional Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora (1964) together with the Management Plan accompanying the description of the aforementioned Specially Protected Area:

Specially Protected Area No. 21

Avian Island, Margarita Bay, Antarctic Peninsula (67o46'S,68o54'O).

Annex to Recommendation XVI - 4

Specially Protected Area No. 2

Avian Island, Northwest of Margarita Bay, Antarctic Peninsula.

1. Geographical location

Avian Island (67o46'S,68o54'O) is located 0,25Km from the southwest extremity of Adelaide Island, in the northwest part of Margarita Bay and southwest of Antarctic Peninsula.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the site

The site includes Avian Island and its coastal area. It's 1.45 km long for 0.8 km. in its widest part and rises to a little more than 40 m. of altitude in the southern part. It is almost completely free of ice in summer and has several lapses of melting of little deep, the largest of which is on the eastern emersion beach. There are two small huts of deteriorated refuge, one towards the northwest and the other near the eastern shores of the island.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The site is exceptional in the Antarctic Peninsula for the abundance and diversity of marine birds that nest there, among which it is worth noting: Adelia penguins (Pygoscelis adelaie), about 36,000 couples: imperial cormorants (Phalacrocorax atricpes), about 670 couples: Southern giant petreles (Macronectes giganticus), about 250 Several other species of birds, nesting in other parts of Margarita Bay, usually visit the island. Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) are reproduced in small groups near the coasts of the island and other seal species come from time to time to shore, especially the southern sea bears (Arctocephalus gazella) that come in increasing numbers during the summer. Briofite vegetation is scarce, but the lichen nitrophile communities are well developed; there are no vascular plants. The colony of giant petreles is the most well-known indigenous population and represents about a quarter of the population of that species throughout the Antarctic Peninsula. The colony of imperial cormorants is one of the largest known in the Antarctic and is very close to the southern limit of the breeding area of the species, represents approximately 85% of the total indigenous population south of the Antarctic Circle. Adelia's penguin colony is the most important of the Antarctic Peninsula and comprises a third of the total indigenous population in the region.

(iii) Designation date and proposing country

Originally designated as SEIC 30 in November 1989 by Recommendation XV - 6, on the proposal of the United Kingdom; designation as ZEP proposed in July 1990 by the United Kingdom.

(iv) Access points

It must be reached by sea and as close as possible to any of the shelters.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for site inspection and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) Drive any type of vehicle on the island (snow vehicles used to visit the island should remain on the coast);

(b) Bring dogs to the island;

(c) landing with helicopter on the island;

(d) To fly over the island less than 250 m. from its highest point;

(e) Use any of the island ' s coves or bays to anchor or lure vessels, except when authorized by the permit;

(f) Incinerate, bury or otherwise dispose of wastes that are not of human origin on the island: such waste should be removed from the island;

(g) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies on the island, except in the shelters, unless they are required again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

(h) build any building on the island, outside the restoration and maintenance of the two existing shelters.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

There is none specified; but all possible precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing any species of birds (in particular the giant petreles, to which the pedestrians should not be approached at less than 100 m) or seals reproduced there, unless authorized by the permit.

(viii) scientific research and sampling

All activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in the entry permit in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should be undertaken at least every 5 years to assess the status of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental changes. Other visits will be made when it is necessary to carry out the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

XVI - 5

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

Special Scientific Interest Sites: Internship Guidelines

Special Scientific Interest Site No6 Peninsula Byers, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands

Representatives

Recalling Recommendation VIII - 4 and Management Plan for the Special Scientific Interest Site No. 6: Byers Peninsula, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands, annexed to this Recommendation;

Taking notethat, during its twenty-first meeting held in Sao Paulo, Brazil (24-27 July 1990), the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) reviewed the Management Plan and the Scientific Interest of SEIC No. 6: Peninsula Byers, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands;

Recommend to their governments that:

(i) terminate the Management Plan for the Special Scientific Interest Site No. 6: Byers Peninsula, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands, annexed to Recommendation VIII - 4;

(ii) voluntarily take into account the Management Plan for the Special Scientific Interest Site No. 6: Byers Peninsula, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands.

Annex to Recommendation XVI - 5

Amendment to the Special Scientific Interest Site No. 6

Byers Peninsula, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands

This site comprises three different forms and dimension areas in the Byers Peninsula, designated only for its sedimentary and paleontological interest. However, the Peninsula is also of considerable biological and archaeological importance.

1. Geographical location

The Byers Peninsula is an extensive, ice-free area for the most part, located at the western end of Livingston Island, South Lat Shetland Islands. 62o38'S and long. 61o05'O.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the site

The site comprises the entire area of the Byers Peninsula extending the ice limit in the western part of the Domo Rotch (up to a point directly north of the Stackpole Rocks) to the west, to the western tip of the Promontory Ray. The site includes the coastline of the Peninsula, but not the islets and nearby islands in the sea. Much of the site is low and with undulations, below 100 m. high, except the Promontorio Ray, whose topography is steeper and which rises above 200 m. in Cerro Penca and Cerro Start. There are numerous ponds, lakes, lagoons and streams between Promontorio Ray and the Domo Rotch icefield. Coastal areas often have wide beaches of several hundred meters wide, with coastal terraces behind.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The fossils found in this area prove the old link between Antarctica and the other southern continents. A long-term paleontological research programme has been carried out since the mid-1960s. It is important to protect these jurasic and cretaceous rocks so that they are not used as construction material or taken as a souvenir.

The site is of particular biological importance. It has a scattered but varied flora of calcícolas and calcifugas plants and also clanobacterias, associated with lava and basalts, respectively. In the basal taps the vegetation is particularly rich. Several sites show the presence of several rare cryptogamous plants and of the two vascular indigenous plants (Colobanthus quitensis and Antarctic Deschampsia). There are several lakes on the shores and inland: the latter have an important biota, among them aquatic moss and serve as production sites for the Parochlus steineni, the only winged insect of Antarctica, whose diffusion area is very limited. The only other Antarctic diptero, the aptero Belgium antartica, lives in wet moss banks.

The site is also unique because it has the highest concentration of historical sites in Antarctica, that is, remnants of refuges, together with contemporary artifacts and traces of shipwrecked ships of seal hunting expeditions of the early nineteenth century.

It is important to protect both biological and archaeological aspects.

(iii) Research outline

A long-term geological and paleontological research programme was launched in 1964. The main objectives are the description of the sediments and fossils found in this area. Also, since the late 1950s, botanical, zoological, limnological, ornithological and archaeological research has been carried out on several occasions throughout the site.

(iv) Date the designation expires

On 31 December 2001.

(v) Access points

None have been specified.

(vi) Routes for pedestrians and vehicles

No vehicle shall be entered into the site except in case of emergency. The helicopters can only land on land without vegetation, at a distance of at least 500 m. of all concentrations of birds or seals or freshwater organisms.

(vii) Other types of scientific research that would not cause harmful interference.

Any type of scientific research that is not archaeological, biological and geological will have to be limited to a minimum.

(viii) Scientific

The samples of rocks or biological specimens can only be taken for urgent scientific reasons.

(ix) Other constraints

Buildings or other premises may not be built on the site. All wastes other than human origin should be removed from the site. No waste will be incinerated on the site. The shelters of seal hunters (cooks, caves, etc.) will be left intact and the objects related to hunting will not be removed (tools, lumbers, cloths, etc.) from such places or beaches. The remains of animal skeletons should not be moved from where they are or removed from the site.

XVI - 6

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

Specially Protected Areas

Revised Descriptions and Management Plans proposed for Specially Protected Areas

Representatives,

Recalling recommendations XV - 8 and XV - 9;

Taking note that the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) has approved the revised descriptions of the proposed areas and management plans;

Recommend to their Governments that for the Specially Protected Areas listed below:

(i) Delete the Descriptions contained in Annex B, Specially Protected Areas, of the Conventional Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora;

(ii) are inserted in Annex B, Specially Protected Areas, of the Conventional Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora, Descriptions and Management Plans of the Specially Protected Areas annexed to this Recommendation;

The Specially Protected Areas concerned are:

Site No. 8: Dion Islands, Margarita Bay, Antarctic Peninsula

Site No. 9: Green Island, Berthelot Islands, Antarctic Peninsula

Site No. 13: Moe Island, South Orkney Islands

Site No. 14: Lynch Island, Southern Orkney Islands

Site No. 15: South Powel Island and adjacent Islands, Southern Orkney Islands

Site No. 16: Coppermine Peninsula, Robert Island, South Shetland Islands

Site No. 18: North Coronation Island, South Orkeny Islands

Site No. 19: Lagotellerie Island, Margarita Bay, Antarctic Peninsula

Annex to Recommendation XVI-6

Management Plan for the Specially Protected Area Nro. 8 Dion Islands, Margarita Bay, Antarctic Peninsula.

1. Geographical location

The Dion Islands (67o53'S, 68o42'O) are a small group of rocky islands about 13 km. south of the southern tip of Adelaide Island, in the northwest part of Margarita Bay.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

The area includes the entire Dion Islands archipelago, which extends over 12 km2, including the sea between islands. The islands and islets are small, rocky and often steep, especially the Emperor Island which is also the highest (46 m. high). The main islands are the largest in the entire Courtier Islands group (about 8 ha). Isle Emperador (about 5 ha) and also the Consort Islands group (about 3ha) and also the Consort Islands group (about 3 ha). In the two largest islands there are plain areas. There are some small surfaces of permanent ice, but no streams or permanent lagoons.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The area has the only known indigenous population of emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri) in the western part of the Antarctic Peninsula. It is located on a low emersion beach and a rocky promontory of the southeast part of the Emperor Island. It is also the most northern and probably smaller colony (the annual population of penguins ranges from 50 to 500 pairs) and is one of the only two in which reproduction takes place on the ground (see also ZEP N. 1). It is also the colony of Emperors more isolated, since it is about 2500 km (by sea) from the other known colony closest to it. Among the other birds that nest in the area there is a small colony of Adelia penguins (Pygoscelis Adeliae) near the colony of emperor penguins, and about 200 couples of imperial cormorants (Phalacrocorax atricps) on the northern side of the same island.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

November 1966, Recommendation IV-8: United Kingdom.

Specially Protected Area Management Plan No. 9 Green Island, Berthelot Islands, Antarctic Peninsula

1. Geographical location

Green Island (65o19'S, 64o10'O) is a small island located on the north side of the Berthelot Islands group, between the northwest side of the Collins Bay and the Grandidier Canal, about 3 km away. opposite the Graham Coast in the middle west of the Antarctic Peninsula.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

The area comprises the entire Green Island, a small rocky island that is about 0.25 km north of the largest Berthelot Islands. It measures approximately 500 m. from north to south and 300 m. from east to west and has a dome-shaped peak that culminates at about 80 m. high. The island has steep slopes on all sides, with steep cliffs on the south and east sides. Along the northern part there is a rock platform in soft decline. There are several spaces covered with permanent snow, of which the elders are located south and east of the summit. There are no streams or lagoons.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The Green Island has a dense vegetation on the northern slopes and, above all, it has tight moss mattresses formed from Chorisodontium aciphyllum and Polytrichum lepestre that cover the peat in more than 1 m deep. Antarctic Aira (Deschampsia) is also frequent in small mattresses near the cormorant colony. The island is the habitat of two major bird colonies. A large colony of imperial cormorants (Phalacrocorax atriceps) with about 250 nests in the steep and rocky slopes of the northwest tip; it is one of the largest colonies of cormorants of the Antarctic Peninsula. There are also numerous pard pages (Catharacta lonnbergii) and some southern pages (C. maccormicki), as well as hybrids, of which only some nest there.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country.

November 1966, Recommendation IV-9: United Kingdom.

(iv) Access points

None has been specified, but it is easier to disembark by boat or helicopter on the northern part of the island.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for site inspection and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) landing with helicopter in the area;

(b) Surf the area less than 250 m. from its highest point;

(c) Use any of the coves, or intermediate waters of the area to anchor or lure vessels, except when authorized by the permit;

(d) Incinerate, bury or otherwise dispose of wastes other than human origin in the area; such wastes should be removed from the area;

(e) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies in the area, except in the shelters, unless they are required again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

f) build any building in the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

There are no specifics, but all possible precautions should be taken to cause the least possible harm to the lush manchons of moss and to avoid disturbing any species of birds or seals reproduced there unless authorized by the permit.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

All activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in the entry permit in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should be undertaken at least every 5 years to assess the status of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental changes. Other visits will be made when it is necessary to carry out the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

Specially Protected Area Management Plan No. 13 Moe Island, South Orkney Islands

1. Geographical location

Moe Island (60o45'S,45o41'O) is a small island that is about 0.5 km away from the southwest tip of Signy Island, South Orkney Islands, from which it is separated by the Fyr Channel;

2. Description of the area

The area is an island of irregular shapes measuring approximately 1.8 km from northwest to southwest and 1 km from northwest to southeast. It rises abruptly on the northeast and southeast sides and culminates in the Pico Snipe (226 m. high); there is another smaller peak, the South Punta (102 m. high) and lower hills in each of the three promontories of the western part: Punta Corral (92 m.). Punta Conroy (89 m) and Punta Spaull (56 m). There are small areas with permanent ice on the east and south slopes, with late snow areas on the steep western slopes. There are no streams or lagoons.

(ii) Reason for its designation

Moe Island is an excellent sample of the marine Antarctic Earth ecosystem, with a characteristic vegetation of the Southern Orkney Islands particularly well developed. The dominant plant communities are the lichens (Andreaea-Usnea and the musgo manchons Chorisodontium-Polytrichum (whose main extension covers about 5 ha. among them large areas of eroded peat, and represents the best known example of this type of plant community in the Antarctica. cryptogáminca flora and arthropod fauna are varied. There are five penguin colonies of each marked (Pygoscelis antartica) that total about 11,000 pairs. Many other birds nest on the island, especially about 2000 couples of Cape petreles (Daption capensis) and numerous Antarctic prions (Pachyptila desolata). Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) and sea leopards (Hdrurga leptonyx) usually go to the bays of the western part of the island. A growing number of Australian sea bears (Arctocephaulus gazella) are on the shore of the northern part of the Cala Landing and cause some damage to the vegetation. However, the nature of the terrain should limit the presence of these animals to this small tip.

Owing to the intense experimental research carried out on the ground for many years and the considerable destruction of the ground and freshwater ecosystems of the lowlands caused by the southern sea bears on the neighbouring Signy Island, Moe Island serves as an important monitoring site with which further comparisons can be made, particularly with regard to the biological and environmental changes in the region.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

November 1966, Recommendation IV-13: United Kingdom.

(iv) Access points

None has been specified, but access is preferable, and safer, by the sea in the northwest corner of the Cala Landing.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for site inspection and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) landing with helicopter in the area, except in the port between the 89 m hill and the western slope of the Pico Snip, south of the Cala Landing;

(b) Surf the area less than 250 m. of its highest point, except for the landing area indicated in paragraph (a) to be carried out directly from the cove to the north or to the south avoiding the colonies of marine birds;

(c) Use any of the coves or bays in the area to anchor or lure vessels, except when authorized by the permit;

(d) Incinerate, bury or otherwise dispose of wastes other than human origin in the area; such wastes should be removed from the area;

(e) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies in the area, except in the shelters, unless they are required again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

f) build any building in the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

There are no specifics, but all possible precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing any species of birds or seals that reproduce or damage the vegetation, unless authorized by the permission. Polytrichum-Chorisodontium moss extensions and eroded turf areas should be avoided in particular.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

All activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in the entry permit in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should take place once a year to assess the status of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental change, taking into account especially the increasing damage caused by the southern sea bears to the island ' s vegetation. These visits will also be used for the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

Specially Protected Area Management Plan No. 14 Lynch Island, South Orkney Islands

1. Geographical location

Lynch Island (60o40'S,45o38'O) is a small island located at the eastern end of Marshall Bay, in the middle of the southern coast of Coronation Island and directly north of Signy Island, Southern Orkney Islands.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

The area is a small rocky island located about 200 m from the southern coast of Coronation Island. It has about 500 m. from east to west and about 300 m. from north to south and culminates in a flat plateau with a maximum height of 33 m. On the south, east and west sides, there are low cliffs up to 20 m. tall and rocky cliffs, while the northern part has a cliff of little height below a rocky terrace of about 5-8 m. high. There are no streams or lagoons and there are only a few late snow areas in the southern part of the island.

(ii) Reason for its designation

Lynch Island contains one of the largest and dense extensions of Antarctica (antarctic deschampsia) known in the Treaty Area. Also abounds the only other flowery plant of Antarctica, antarctic sagine (Colobanthus quitensis). The cryptolamic vegetation is characteristic of the region, but several species of moss are inhabitually fertile there (especially polytrichum alpinum and Muelleriella crassifolia). Below the pastures of the wet slope that gives to the north, there is a small clay land, similar to the brown soil of the tundra, which contains a rich invertebrate fauna. The wet moss of the cracks of the rocks of the north of the island shelters a rare earthworm wobble wobble wobble wobble . Few birds nest, although most of the Antarctic seals are common around the island and sometimes on the shores (especially a growing number of southern sea bears, Arctocephalus gazella, which come out on the shore in summer).

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

November 1966, Recommendation IV-14: United Kingdom.

(iv) Access points

It should be reached by the sea and landed in a low rocky promontory or adjacent cove westward, in the northern part of the island.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for site inspection and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) Drive any type of vehicle in the area;

(b) landing with helicopter in the area, except in the north-west part of the beach on the east side of the southern Powell Island promontory, provided that there are no fauna, or in areas devoid of vegetation in the north of Fredriksen Island, in both places at least 0.5 km. of any colony or group of birds or seals;

(c) To fly over the area less than 250 m. from its highest point;

(d) Use any of the coves or bays in the area to anchor or lure vessels; except when authorized by the permit; the boats may only anchor in the strait between Michelsen Island and Fredriksen Island;

(e) Incinerate, bury or otherwise dispose of wastes other than human origin in the area; such wastes should be removed from the area;

(f) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies in the area, except in the shelters, unless they are needed again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

g) build any type of building in the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

There are no specifics, but all possible precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing any species of birds or seals that reproduce or damage the vegetation, unless authorized by the permission. As far as possible, the areas of Deschampia and Colobanthus should be avoided in particular.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

All activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in the entry permit in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should take place once every year, to assess the state of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental change, taking into account especially the increasing damage caused by the southern sea bears to vegetation mainly composed of pasture on the island. Such visits will also be used for the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

Specially Protected Area Management Plan No. 15

South Powell Island and adjacent Islands, South Orkney Islands

1. Geographical location

Powell Island (60o45'S,45o02'O) is the third island, in size, of the Orkney Islands of the South and is between the coronation island to the west and Laurie Island to the east.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

The area comprises the entire Powell Island south of the latitude of the southern summit of the Hohn Picos (375 m. high), together with the Michelsen Island (a peninsula that rises to 38 m. high and is separated from a long promontory at the southern end of the Powell Island by a low isthmus that is flooded in high tide) and the rocky islets west of no name, the Christoff Island. With the exception of the southern part of Powell Island (Crutchiey Ice Piedmont), almost all are ice-free in summer. All intermediate waters are included in the area.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The area is of exceptional biological interest, since it has limited vegetation characteristic of the coastal habitats of biotic influence of the region and considerable populations of various species of birds and seals. Briofite vegetation is more developed in the extreme northwest tip of the area, in the southwest part of Powell Island, on Christoffersen Island and locally in the north of Frederiksen Island. In other parts there are extensive communities of nitrophile lipids on rocks and cliffs. There are several lagoons and melting currents with biotic pollution, specifically on the east coast beach of the southern part of Powell Island, where Crutchley Ice Piedmont is separated.

Large amounts of penguins and petreles nest in the area. There are about 50,000 pairs of penguins with a marked face (Pygoscelis antarctica), 80% of which on Frederiksen Island, and approximately the same number of penguins from Adelia (P. Adeliae), most of them in the southern area of Powell-Michelsen Island. There are about 3,000 papu penguin couples (P. papua) nesting in the southern promontory of Powell Island, Michelsen Island and Christoffersen Island. There are also some pairs of birds bobos macaroni (Eudyptes Chrysolophus), petreles of the Cape (Daption capensis), petreles of the snow (Pagodroma nivea), Wilson's paiños (Oceanites oceanicus), imperial cormorants (Phalacrocorax atriceps), Dominican gulls (Larus dominicanus), The isthmus between the south of Powell Island and Michelsen Island is the longest known breeding site of the Southern Sea Bear Antarctic (Arctocephalus gazella) since its extermination in the nineteenth century. However, the small number of babies born annually has not increased; some babies are also born on the convenient beaches of Frederiksen Island. Among the other seals that usually reach the beaches there are sea elephants (Mirounga leonina), seals of Weddell (Leptonychotes weddellii) and sea leopards (Hydrurga leptonyx) and sometimes there are crab seals (Lobodon carcinophagus) in floating ice benches in the area.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

November 1966, Recommendation IV-15; United Kingdom

(iv) Access points

None has been specified, but it will be preferable to reach the sea.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for site inspection and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) Drive any type of vehicle in the area;

(b) landing with helicopter in the area, except in the north-west part of the beach on the east side of the southern Powell Island promontory, provided that there are no fauna, or in areas devoid of vegetation in the north of Fredriksen Island, in both places at least 0.5 km. of any colony or group of birds or seals;

(c) To fly over the area less than 250 m. from its highest point;

(d) Use any of the coves or bays in the area to anchor or lure vessels; except when authorized by the permit; the boats may only anchor in the strait between Michelsen Island and Fredriksen Island;

(e) Incinerate, bury or otherwise dispose of non-human wastes in the area; such wastes should be removed from the area;

(f) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies in the area, except in the shelters, unless they are required again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

g) build any type of building in the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

There are no specifics, but all possible precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing any species of birds or seals that are reproduced there (especially the giant petreles, which should not be approached less than 100 m.) or damage the vegetation (in particular the extensive moss carpet used by the isthmus), unless authorized by the permission.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

All activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in entry permits in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should be undertaken at least every 5 years to assess the status of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental changes. Other visits will be made to carry out the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

Specially Protected Area Management Plan No. 18

North Coronation Island, South Orkeney Islands

1. Geographical location

Coronation Island (60o38'S,45o35'O) is the largest of the Orkeney Islands in the South, located at the western end of the archipelago.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

The area is located in the north central part of Coronation Island. It is east with Punta Foul (60o32'S,45o29'O) and west with Punta Concepción (60o31'S,45o41O). The site comprises the entire area between these points and the intermediate waters. The eastern limit follows a steep crest over 6 km. to the south to reach a point located about 750 m. of height immediately to the west of the summit of Mount Nivea (60o35'S,45o29'O), from there to the south west to the west about 5.5 km. up to a point located at about 900 m. high northeast of the summit of Pico Wave (60o37'S, 45o36'O) and from there on 4 km. to the west through the plateau of Brisbane Heights and then over 4 km. north-west towards a summit without the name of about 1060 m. high and north over 6 km. to Punta Concepción. The summits of Mount Nivea and Pico Wave and the high port known as High Stile are outside the area. The Ommanney Bay and the unnamed bay west are included within the area, south of the border between Punta Concepción and Punta Foul (11.5 km).

(ii) Reason for its designation

The area includes ice-free land (Puntas Concepción, Prong and Foul) in which large colonies of marine birds live. It has cliffs covered with lichens and permanent ice fields (two large glaciers and ice droppers rising to the Brisbane Heights plateau) which constitute a magnificent sample of a pristine ice area near the northern borders of the Maritime Antarctic and the Antarctic Treaty Area. The closely related terrestrial, ice and marine elements that make up the area represent an integrated example of the permanent coastal ice and of the subbliteral ecosystems characteristic of the Antarctic environment.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

October 1985, Recommendation XIII-10: United Kingdom.

(iv) Access points

None have been specified.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for the inspection of the site and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Conventional Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) Drive any type of vehicle in the area;

(b) landing with helicopter less than 0.5 km. of any colony or group of birds or seals, or in any of the ice fields;

(c) Overflew the Conception, Prong or Foul Puntas at less than 250 m of their highest scores;

(d) use any of the coves or bays in the area to anchor or lure vessels, except when authorized by the permit: ships should not enter the area;

(e) Incinerate, find out or otherwise dispose of wastes other than human origin in the area;

(f) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies in the area, except in the shelters, unless they are required again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

g) build any type of building in the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

There are no specifics, but all possible precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing any species of birds or seals.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

Inspection visits to the area should be carried out at most every 5 years to assess the status of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental changes. Other visits will be made to carry out the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

Specially Protected Area Management Plan No19

Lagotellerie Island, Margarita Bay, Antarctic Peninsula

1. Geographical location

Lagotellerie Island (67o53'S, 67o24'O) is about 3 km away. west of the southern part of Horseshoe Island, Margarita Bay, southwest of the Antarctic Peninsula.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

Lagotellerie Island is about 2 km away. from east to west and approximately 1 km. from north to south. It rises abruptly on two twin summits of about 270 and 290 m. high, separated by a wide port. The northern part of the island is largely snow-free and consists of large flat surfaces. The south and east sides have steep cliffs up to 180 m high: much of the north part also has steep cliffs, cut through ravines and crossed by wide rock terraces. There are no streams or permanent lagoons.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The island has a quite varied flora and abundant colonies of representative plants of the meriodional Antarctic maritime region. The northern part is covered with Antarctica (Antarctic Deschampasia) that on certain terraces forms closed extensions that reach 10 m3. Antarctic sagine (Colobanthus quitensis) is also common. Both species are close to the southern limits of their extension. There is also a rich cryptogamic flora with well-developed communities that contain several rare mosses and lichens. Below the grass and the moss a rich margoous land of up to 25 cm deep, with a varied fauna of invertebrates and microbiota. The island is one of the southernmost sites of the Belgian Antarctic aptero jeans. There is a colony of about 1000 pairs of Adelia penguins (Pygoscelis Adeliae) on the southeast tip of the island. There is also a small colony of about 30 pairs of imperial cormorants (Phalcrocorax atriceps) and is one of the most southern nidification sites of this species. Couples of both birds nest on this island abound (Catharactilonnbergil and C. Maccormick).

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

October 1985, Recommendation XIII-11; United Kingdom.

(iv) Access points

None have been specified.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for site inspection and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) landing with helicopter in the area, except in the devoid land of vegetation in the middle of the septentrionl side of the island and in the port between the two peaks;

(b) Surf the area less than 250 m. from its highest point;

(c) To use any of the coves or bays in the area to anchor or lure vessels, except when authorized by the permit;

(d) Incinerate, bury or otherwise dispose of wastes other than human origin in the area; such wastes should be removed from the area;

(e) To leave fuel, food or any other supplies in the area, except in the shelters, unless they are required again during the same season, after which they will have to be removed from there;

f) build any building in the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

There are no specified ones, but all possible precautions should be taken to avoid disturbing any species of birds or seals or damaging the vegetation, unless authorized by permission.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

All activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in the entry permit in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should be undertaken at least every 5 years to assess the status of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental changes. Other visits will be made to carry out the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

XVI-7

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

Sites of Special Scientific Interest

Extension of Designation

Representatives,

Recalling Recommendations VIII-3, VIII-4, XII-5 and XIII-7;

Taking note that:

(1) in accordance with recommendation VIII-3, paragraph 2, the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR), at its twenty-first meeting held in Sao Paulo, Brazil (24-27 July 1990), had considered the eight Special Scientific Interest Sites designated in Recommendations VIII-4, XIII-8 and XIV-5;

(2) judging by the specific effects of the Management Plans observed in such sites, these plans have proved to be an effective means of reducing the risks of harmful interference in areas of particular scientific interest;

(3) the SCAR has not proposed any modification of the Management Plans of these sites.

Recommend to their governments that:

(i) The date on which the designation of the Sites expires:

No. 4 - Cabo Crozier, Ross Island;

No. 5 - Fides Peninsula, King George Island, South Shetland Islands;

No. 7 - Haswell Island;

No 10 - Caughley Beach, Cabo Bird, Ross Island;

No 11 - Cerro Tramway, Monte Erebus, Ross Island;

No 12 - Glacier Canada, Lake Fryxell, Taylor Valley, Victoria Land;

No 18 - Northwest White Island, McMurdo Channel

extended until 31 December 2001; and

(ii) The date on which the designation of the Site expires;

No. 22 - Yukidori Valley, Langhovde, Lutzow, Holmm Bay

is extended until 31 December 2003.

(iii) To make every effort to ensure that, in accordance with paragraphs 3 and 4 of Recommendation VIII-3, the Management Plans of those sites are adhered to.

XVI-8

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

Specially Protected Area No. 22

Cerro Criptógama, Monte Melbourne, Tierra Victoria

The Representatives.

Recalling Recommendations XV-8 and XV-9;

Taking note that the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) has prepared and approved a Management Plan;

Considering that the Cerro Criptógama, located on the southern edge of the crater of the highest summit of Mount Melbourne, consists of areas with geothermal activity, free of ice and surrounded by numerous camellons of ice and scattered ice towers, that the geothermal soil contains a unique community of briofitas, algae and microbiota with very rare species, that this fragile habitat has an exceptional biological interest,

Recommend to their Governments that it add to Annex B, Specially Protected Areas, of the Conventional Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora, the following area of Outstanding Scientific Interest, together with the annexed Management Plan;

Specially Protected Area No. 22

Cerro Criptógama, Monte Melbourne, Tierra Victoria, El Monte Melbourne (74o21'S.164o42'E) is located between the Wood Bay and the Campbell Glacier, north of Victoria land, in the western part of the Ross Sea.

ANNEX TO RECOMMENDATION XVI-8

Specially Protected Area No. 22 Cerro Criptógama, Monte Melbourne, Tierra Victoria

1. Geographical location

Mount Melbourne (74o21'S, 164o42'E) is located between Wood Bay and the Campbell Glacier, north of Victoria Earth, in the western part of the Rock Sea.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

The area comprises most of Cerro Criptógama on the southern edge of the crater of the highest summit (2733 m. height) and has an area of about 200 m. for 500 m. The geothermal activity extends over about 300-400 m. of the hill and is marked by discontinuous areas of ice-free land, surrounded by numerous ice camellons up to 1 m high and ice towers scattered and hollow up to several meters in diameter and 4 m high. Ice-free temperate areas are usually soft slopes with narrow terraces up to 1.5 m wide. For more details on the surrounding areas please refer to SEIC data No. 24.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The geothermal soil of the area contains an exceptional community of briofitas, algae and microbiota, in particular the only manifestation in the Antarctic of the moss Campylopus Pyriformis and the very continental manifestation of the liver Cephaloziella exiliflora, unknown by endima of the 500 m. in other places of Antarctica. This site is comparable to the other single ice-free high place, with geothermal influence, which is known: The one located near the summit of Mount Erebus. This fragile and sterile habitat is of exceptional biological interest, so it should be protected as much as possible against human influences to preserve its unique pristine state.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

June 1990; New Zealand and Italy.

(iv) Access points

It should only be entered by any of the ends of Cerro Criptógama and not by the hillsides.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for the inspection of the site and without compromising any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site (see Article VIII of the Convinced Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora). Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

To avoid or minimize human impact, it is strictly forbidden:

(a) To enter the area without wearing protective clothing and footwear provided by the sponsoring national operator;

(b) Use sampling or other instruments in the area that have not been previously sterilized by an acceptable method;

(c) landing with helicopter in the area; helicopters can only land near the Mount Melbourne summit on a specified site located in or near the main crater, not less than 200 m from the area limit;

(d) Incinerate, bury or otherwise dispose of any type of waste in the area, including wastes of human origin; all wastes should be removed from the area;

(e) Bring to the fuel zone or food, or leave in it any other type of provisions, except markers necessary for control studies;

f) build any building in the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

None has been specified, but the pedestrians should not use the crest of the hill as access to the parts surrounding the SEIC. High care should be taken to avoid damaging the ice-free soil or the ice structures in the area, unless authorized by the permit.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

As far as possible, the collection of samples and general observations of the geothermal soils and the organisms will be made from outside positions to the area, unless they are directly related to the surveillance activities of Cerro Criptógama; all activities shall be strictly consistent with those specified in the entry permit in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits to the area should be made at most every 5 years, to avoid the state of the site and to take note of any significant biological or environmental changes. Other visits will be made to carry out the maintenance of mojones of limits, signs, etc.

XVI-9

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

Specially Protected Area No.23

Laguna de Forlidas y Lagunas del Valle Davis

Representatives,

Recalling Recommendations XV-8 and XV-9;

Noting that the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) has prepared and approved a Management Plan,

Considering that the area contains some of the southernmost freshwater lagoons known in the Antarctic and that these lagoons and their immediate vicinity, examples of almost intact single systems, should be protected to the greatest extent possible from any human influence;

Recommend to their Governments that the following area of outstanding scientific interest be added to Annex B, Specially Protected Areas, of the Conventional Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora, together with the annexed Management Plan;

Specially Protected Area No. 23

La Laguna Forlidas y las Lagunas del Valle Davis located near the eastern end of the Macizo Dufek (82o27'15'S, 51o21'O). The area includes smaller lagoons along the ice limit, in the northern edges of the Davis Valley, within walking distance to the east of the Forlidas Lagoon.

Annex to Recommendation XVI-9

Specially Protected Area No. 23

Laguna de Forlidas y Lagunas del Valle Davis

1. Geographical location

La Laguna de Forlidas, approximately 100 m. of diameter, is located near the eastern end of the Dufek Macizo, in a small and dry valley without name, approximately 1 km east of the northern edge of the Forlidas Hill and near the northern edge of the Forlidas Hill and about 1 km northwest of the Davis Valley. The unnamed dry valley is separated from the Davis Valley by a multi-kilometre long chain facing northeast. The position of the Forlidas Lagoon is 82o27'15"S and 15o21'O. The area includes smaller lagoons along the ice limit, in the northern edges of the Davis Valley, within walking distance to the east of the Forlidas Lagoon.

2. Management plan

(i) Description of the area

The area is divided into two parts, which are on the attached map, approximately 500 m. from another:

A. The whole area is 500 m. around the center of the Forlidas Lagoon;

B. The entire area is 500 m. radius of several snow-water lagoons on the ice limit along the northern edges of the Davis Valley.

(ii) Reason for its designation

The area contains some of the southernmost freshwater lagoons known in Antarctica that are at risk of being contaminated by man's activities. The only visitors to the Forlidas Lagoon have been geologists and geophysicists (in 1957) and possibly one or two more groups. In 1978, geologists visited the Davis Valley lagoons. No botanist or zoologist has visited the area. These lagoons are located in the ZER No. 1, in the northern part of the Maciso Dufek that could attract visitors such as, for example, scientists or tourists. They must be protected as unique examples of almost intact freshwater collectors and ecosystems.

(iii) Date of designation and proposing country

October 1991; United States of America.

(iv) Access points

There is none specified.

(v) Income permit requirement

It is only possible to enter the area with an existing permit issued by a participating Government or its authorized representative, and only for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere or for site inspection and without endangering any element of the natural ecosystem or its biota within the site. Details of the visit should be included in the annual national information exchange report for the same Antarctic season in which the activities were carried out.

(vi) Prohibitions

No specification has been made, but camping or landing by helicopter will be avoided less than 1 km from the area.

(vii) Routes for pedestrians

No specification has been made, but efforts will be made not to alter biota, soil, water and periglacial characteristics, unless authorized by the permit.

(viii) Scientific research and sampling

Only samples of the biota or soils may be taken for pressing scientific reasons and strictly conforming to the activities mentioned in the entry permit in the area.

(ix) Inspection and maintenance

Inspection visits will take place when the opportunity is presented to evaluate the state of the area and to take note of the possible biological and environmental changes and to proceed to the maintenance of the border markers, signs, etc.

XVI-10

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

SYSTEM REVISION

The Representatives.

Recalling Article VIII of the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora and Recommendations V-4, VI-14, VII-9, VIII-3, XV-10 and XV-11;

Recalling the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on the Protection of the Environment adopted in Madrid on 4 October 1991;

Recommend to their Governments that:

ARTICLE 3

SPECIALLY PROTECTED ANTARTICS

1. Any area, including marine areas, may be designated as a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone to protect outstanding scientific, aesthetic, historical or natural values, any combination of these values, or ongoing or planned scientific research.

2. The Parties shall seek to identify, with a systematic environmental and geographical approach, and to include among the Antarctic areas that are particularly protected:

(a) areas that have remained free from all human interference and thus can be compared to other locations affected by human activities;

(b) representative examples of major terrestrial ecosystems, including glacial and aquatic, and marine;

(c) Areas with important or uninhabitual sets of species, including the main breeding colonies of indigenous birds and mammals;

(d) the type locality or the only known habitat of any species;

(e) areas of special interest for ongoing or planned scientific research;

(f) examples of outstanding geological, glaciological or geomorphological characteristics;

(g) areas of exceptional aesthetic or natural value;

(h) sites or monuments of recognized historical value; and

(i) any other area where the values set out in paragraph 1 above are to be protected.

3. The Specially Protected Areas and the Special Scientific Interest Sites designated as such by previous Antarctic Treaty consultative meetings will henceforth be designated as Specially Protected Antarctic Zones and will be re-titled and numbered accordingly.

4. It shall be strictly prohibited from entering a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone: except in accordance with a permit issued under Article 7 below.

(i) The Annex to this Recommendation becomes Annex V-Protection and Area Management of the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on Environmental Protection;

(ii) The Annex enters into force on the same date that the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on the Protection of the Environment has entered into force and that the present Recommendation has been approved by all the Consultative Parties to attend the sixteenth Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting.

Annex to Recommendation XVI-10

Annex V

THE PROTOCOL TO THE ANARTIC TREATY ON PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

PROTECTION AND GESTION OF ZONES

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this Annex:

(a) "competent authority" means any authorized person or agency or Party to issue permits in accordance with this Annex;

(b) "permission" means an official written permit issued by a competent authority;

(c) "Management Plan" means a plan to manage activities and protect the special value or values of a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or a Specially Managed Antarctic Zone.

ARTICLE 2

OBJECTIVES

For the purposes set out in this Annex, any area, including a marine area, may be designated as a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or as a Specially Managed Antarctic Zone. Activities in these Areas shall be prohibited, restricted or administered in accordance with the Management Plans adopted in accordance with the provisions of this Annex.

ARTICLE 4

ADMINISTRED ANTARTICS

1. Any area, including marine areas, where activities are carried out or can be carried out in the future, may be designated as a Specially Managed Antarctic Zone to assist in the planning and coordination of activities, avoid potential conflicts, improve cooperation among Parties and minimize environmental impacts.

2. Specially managed Antarctic Zones may include:

(a) areas where activities risk creating mutual interference or cumulative environmental impacts; and

(b) sites or monuments of recognized historical value.

3. A permit will not be required to enter a Specially Managed Antarctic Zone.

4. Notwithstanding paragraph 3 above, a Specially administered Antarctic Zone may comprise one or more specially protected Antarctic areas, to which it is prohibited to enter, except in accordance with a permit issued pursuant to Article 7 below.

ARTICLE 5

GESTION PLANES

1. Any Party, the Committee, the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research or the Commission on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources may propose that an area such as the Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or the Specially Managed Antarctic Zone be designated, presenting a draft Management Plan to the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting.

2. The designated area should be sufficiently sized to protect the values for which special protection or management is required.

3. The proposed Management Plans will include, as appropriate.

(a) a description of the value or values that require special protection or administration;

(b) a statement of the objectives and objectives of the Management Plan to protect or manage such values;

(c) management activities to be undertaken to protect the values that require special protection or administration;

(d) a designation period, if appropriate:

(e) a description of the area that includes:

(i) Geographical coordinates, boundary indications and natural traits delimiting the area;

(ii) Access to the area by land, by sea or by air, including the approximation or anchoring sea points, pedestrian and vehicle routes within the area, air routes and landing areas;

(iii) the location of structures, including scientific stations, research or shelter premises, both in the area and in the vicinity and

(iv) the location in or near the area of other Specially Protected Antarctic Areas or Specially Managed Antarctic Zones designated in accordance with this Annex, or other designated protected areas in accordance with the measures taken under other components of the Antarctic Treaty System;

(f) Identification of areas within the area where activities shall be prohibited, limited or managed in order to achieve the objectives and purposes referred to in subparagraph (b) above;

(g) maps and photographs that clearly show the limits of the area with respect to the surrounding features and the main characteristics of the area;

(h) supporting documentation;

(i) dealing with a proposed area to be designated as a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone, a clear statement of the conditions justifying the issuance of a permit by the competent authority with respect to:

(i) Access to and movement within the area;

(ii) activities that are carried out or that may be carried out in the area, taking into account time and place constraints;

(iii) the installation, modification or dismantling of structures;

(iv) the location of the camps;

(v) restrictions on materials and agencies that may be introduced in the area;

(vi) collecting or harming indigenous flora and fauna;

(vii) the taking or transfer of anything that has not been brought to the area by the owner of the permit;

(viii) waste disposal;

(ix) measures that may be required to ensure that objectives and purposes can be pursued; and

(x) requirements for reports to be submitted to the competent authority on visits to the area;

(j) with respect to a proposed area for its designation as a Specially Administrative Antarctic Zone, a code of conduct relating to:

(i) Access to and movement within the area;

(ii) activities that are carried out or that may be carried out in the area, taking into account time and place constraints;

(iii) the installation, modification or dismantling of buildings;

(iv) the location of the camps;

(v) collecting or harming indigenous flora and fauna;

(vi) the taking or transfer of anything that has not been brought to the area by the visitor;

(vii) waste disposal; and

(viii) the requirements for reports to be submitted to the competent authority regarding visits to the area;

(k) Provisions relating to the circumstances in which Parties should seek to exchange information before the proposed activities are undertaken.

ARTICLE 6

PROCEDURES OF DESIGNATION

1. Management plans will be forwarded to the Committee, the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research and, where appropriate, to the Commission on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources. In formulating its Views to the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, the Committee will take into account any comments made by the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research and, for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources. In formulating its Views to the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, the Committee will take into account any comments made by the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research and, where appropriate, by the Commission on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources. Subsequently, the Management Plans may be approved by the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties under a measure taken during an Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, in accordance with Article IX (1) of the Antarctic Treaty. If the measure does not specify otherwise, it will be estimated that the Plan will have been approved 90 days after the conclusion of the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in which it was adopted, unless one or more of the Advisory Parties notifies the Depositary, within that period, that it wishes to extend the same or that it cannot approve the measure.

2. In view of the provisions of Articles 4 and 5 of the Protocol, no marine area shall be designated as a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or as an Antarctic Zone for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.

3. The designation of a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or of a Specially Managed Antarctic Zone shall apply indefinitely, unless the Management Plan provides otherwise. The Management Plan will be revised every five years and will be updated as appropriate.

4. Management plans may be amended or revoked in accordance with paragraph 1 above.

5. Upon approval of the Management Plans, the Depositary shall promptly communicate them to all Parties. The Depositary shall maintain a record of all approved and existing Management Plans.

ARTICLE 7

PERMISSIONS

1. Each Party shall designate a competent authority to issue permits authorizing to enter and undertake activities in a Specially Protected Antarctic Area in accordance with the provisions of the Management Plan for that area. The permit shall be accompanied by the relevant paragraphs of the Management Plan and shall specify the extent and location of the area, the authorized activities and when, where and by whom the activities are authorized or any other condition imposed by the Management Plan.

2. In the event that a Specially Protected Area designated as such by previous Antarctic Treaty consultative meetings lacks a Management Plan, the competent authority may issue a permit for an urgent scientific purpose that cannot be achieved elsewhere and does not endanger the natural ecosystem of the area.

3. Each Party shall require the holder of a permit to carry a copy of the permit while in the Specially Protected Antarctic Zone concerned.

ARTICLE 8

HISTORIC SITIES AND MONUMENTS

1. Sites and monuments of recognized historical value that have been designated as Specially Protected Antarctic Zones or as Specially Managed Antarctic Zones, or which are located in such areas, shall be classified as Historic Sites and Monuments.

2. Any Antarctic Treaty Consultative Party may propose that a site or monument of recognized historical value that has not been designated as a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or Specially Managed Antarctic Zone, or which is not located within one of these areas, be classified as a Site or Historical Monument. This classification proposal may be approved by the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties for a measure taken during an Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, in accordance with Article IX (1) of the Antarctic Treaty. If the measure does not specify otherwise, it will be estimated that the Plan will have been approved 90 days after the conclusion of the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in which it was adopted, unless one or more of the Advisory Parties notifies the Depositary, within that period, that it wishes to extend the measure or that it cannot approve the measure.

3. The Historical Sites and Monuments that have been designated as such in previous Antarctic Treaty consultative meetings will be included in the list of Historic Sites and Monuments mentioned in this article.

4. The Historical Sites and Monuments should not be damaged, transferred or destroyed.

5. The list of Historic Sites and Monuments may be amended in accordance with paragraph 2 above. The Depositary will have an updated list of Historic Sites and Monuments.

ARTICLE 9

INFORMATION AND PUBLICITY

1. To ensure that all persons who visit or intend to visit the Antarctic understand and abide by the provisions of this Annex, each Party shall prepare and distribute information on:

(a) the location of the Specially Protected Antarctic Zones and the Specially Managed Antarctic Zones;

(b) lists and maps of such areas;

(c) Management Plans, including prohibitions for each area;

(d) the location of the Historical Sites and Monuments, with the corresponding prohibitions or restrictions.

2. Each Party shall verify that the location and, as far as possible, the limits of the Antarctic Zones specially protected from the Specially Managed Antarctic Zones and the Historic Sites and Monuments are contained in the topographic maps, hydrographic charts and other relevant publications.

3. The Parties shall cooperate to ensure that, where appropriate, the boundaries of the Specially Protected Antarctic Zones, of the Specially Managed Antarctic Zones and of the Historical Sites and Monuments are visibly marked at the site.

ARTICLE 10

INTERCHANGE OF INFORMATION

1. The Parties shall make arrangements for:

(a) collect and exchange records, in particular the records of permits and the reports of visits and inspections carried out in the Specially Protected Antarctic Zones and the Specially Managed Antarctic Zones;

(b) obtain and exchange information on any significant change or damage recorded in any Specially Managed Antarctic Zone, any Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or any Site or Historical Monument; and

(c) Prepare standardized forms for Parties to communicate records and information, in accordance with paragraph 2 below.

2. Each Party shall inform the other and the Committee before the end of November of each year, the number and nature of permits issued in accordance with this Annex during the previous period of the 1st. from July to 30 June.

3. Any Party conducting, fining or authorizing research or other activities in Specially Protected Antarctic Areas or Specially Managed Antarctic Zones shall keep a record of such activities and, on the occasion of the annual exchange of information provided by the Treaty, shall provide summary descriptions of the activities carried out by persons subject to their jurisdiction in those areas during the past year.

4. Each Party shall inform the others and the Committee, before the end of November of each year, of the measures it has taken to implement the provisions of this Annex, in particular the inspections of the sites and of the measures it has taken to bring to the competent authorities any activity that has contravened the provisions of the Management Plan adopted for a Specially Protected Antarctic Zone or a Specially Administrative Antarctic Zone.

ARTICLE 11

EMERGENCY CASES

1. Restrictions established and authorized by this Annex shall not apply in emergency cases where the safety of human life or of ships, aircraft or equipment and facilities of high value or the protection of the environment is at stake.

2. Emergency activities will be promptly reported to all Parties and the Committee.

ARTICLE 12

AMENDMENTS OR MODIFICATIONS

1. This Annex may be amended or amended by a measure taken in accordance with Article IX, paragraph 1, of the Antarctic Treaty. If the measure does not specify otherwise, the amendment or modification shall be deemed to have been approved, and shall enter into force, one year after the conclusion of the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in which it was adopted, unless one or more of the Consultative Parties notify the Depositary, within this period, that it wishes to extend the same or that it cannot approve the measure.

2. Any amendment or modification of this Annex that enters into force in accordance with paragraph 1 above shall enter into force for any other Party where the Depositary has received the notification that the Party approves it.

XVI-11

PROTECTED ANTARTIC ZONE SYSTEM

New Sites and Historical Monuments

The Representatives.

Recalling Recommendations I-IX, V-4, VI-14, VII-9, XII-7, XIII-16 and XIV-8;

Recommend to their governments that add the following historical sites (monuments) to the "List of Historical Monuments Identified and Descripted by the Government or Proponent Governments" annexed to Recommendation VII-9 and that the respect and protection required by the above-mentioned Recommendations be granted hereafter:

56. The Punta Waterboat, Costa Danco, Antarctic Peninsula (64o49'S, 62o52'O). The remains and the vicinity of the Punta Waterboat hut, located near the unemployed Chilean station "President Gabriel González Videla". The hut of the Punta Waterboat, of which there is only the base of the boat, the lower part of the door's chits and its general outlines, was occupied by the expedition of the British Bagshawe and Lester in 1921-22. This has been, and by the way it continues to be, to date, the smallest expedition (constaba of two people only) that has ever spent the winter in Antarctica.

57. The commemorative plaque placed in Yankee Bay, Estrecho MacFarlane, Greenwich Island, South Shetland Islands, near the Chilean refuge located in latitude 62o32'S and longitude 59o45'O, in memory of Captain Roberto MacFarlane who exploded, in 1820, on board the Dragon Bergantine the Antarctic Peninsula region.

58. The pile of stones with commemorative plaque erected in the Bay of the Balleneros, Deception Island, South Shetland Islands, in the vicinity of the cemetery of the whalers (Historical Monument No. 31), in the latitude 62o59'S and the length of 60o34'O, in honor of Captain Adolfus Amandus Andresen, pioneer of the Antarctic, who was the first to establish, in 1906

59. The monopoly erected on the beach of the Mid Moon Cape Shireff, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands, in memory of officers, soldiers and sailors on board the ship San Telmo, shipwrecked in September 1819. These men were probably the first to live and die in the loneliness of Antarctica.

XVI-12

ACCESS TO ANTARTIC GEOFISIC DATA

Representatives

Recalling that Article 3 of the Antarctic Treaty stipulates that scientific data should be exchanged and made freely available to the parties concerned;

Noting that Article 7 of the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on the Protection of the Environment signed in Madrid on 4 October 1991 prohibits any activity related to mineral resources, except for scientific research;

Aware that geophysical disciplines have contributed greatly to understanding our planet and that its planetary importance has long been recognized in terms of, inter alia, the study of tectonic plates and the glacial history of Antarctica and, in particular, its effects on the global climate;

Reaffirming the importance of continuing geological and geophysical research aimed at the timely disclosure, dissemination and publication of scientific results achieved;

They recommend to their governments that the System of Seismic Data Libraries (SDLS) approved by the SCAR Board of Directors in 1991 be implemented and presented in the report "SCAR Seismic Data Libraries System for Scientific Cooperation" prepared by the SCAR Specialist Group on the Evolution of the High Australes Cenozoic Literatures. SDLS requires, among other things, that the numerical data from the seismic polls by reflection with multiple channels are sent to SDLS within four years of being collected and eight years after collection to the International Data Centers or other archive centers for general dissemination.

XVI-13

TURISM AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL ACTIVITIES IN THE AREA OF ANARTIAL TREATY

Representatives,

Bearing in mind that the XV Consultative Meeting agreed on the need for careful consideration of tourism and non-governmental activities;

Noting that the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on the Protection of the Environment and its Annexes apply to tourism and other non-governmental activities in Antarctica;

Recalling that the XI Special Advisory Meeting requested the sixteenth Advisory Meeting to address the issue of tourism and non-governmental activities;

Recognizing that the Protocol provides the basis for further progress in the protection of the Antarctic environment;

Concerned about the potential impact of the intensification of tourism and non-governmental activities in Antarctica;

Aware of the need to regulate the presence of tourists or other visitors in Antarctica in order to limit their negative impact on the Antarctic environment and Antarctic science;

Recommend to their Governments that:

(i) A meeting of the Parties with a view to making proposals to the XVII Consultative Meeting on the development of a complete regulation of tourism and non-governmental activities in Antarctica, in accordance with the Protocol and taking into account the proposals presented at the XVI Consultative Meeting, in particular proposals for a future Annex to the Protocol on Environmental Protection;

(ii) Prior to the holding of such a meeting and in order to properly prepare their work, Governments should make proposals that take into account the list of the points set out below, which will be a priority at the meeting:

(a) Environment matters

- implementation of the Protocol on the Protection of the Environment and its Annexes.

- number of tourists/transport possibilities

Standards on ships

- permanent infrastructure for tourists

- concentration/dispersion of tourist activities

Access to unexplored areas;

(b) Operating matters

Communication and expansion of information to be exchanged

- Allowance system to visit the stations

- autonomy

- insurance in particular search and rescue insurance

- reporting obligations of Parties

- training and training of tour guides and operators

- review of the need for certain types of control and supervision

- requirements for organizational procedures;

(iii) The meeting will begin its work in Venice on 9 November 1992;

(iv) The meeting, as observers, will be invited to participate in the meeting, including WWTO, IUCN, IAATO, IMO, ASOC, PATA, SCAR and COMNAP.

PART II

STATEMENT BY THE CONTRACTING PARTIES UNDER THE ANNIVERSARY TREATY OF THE ANTARTIC TREATY

DECLARATION

OF THE CONTRACTING PARTIES TO THE ANNIVERSARY TREATY OF THE ANTARTIC TREATY

Representatives of the Contracting Parties to Bonn on the occasion of the sixteenth Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting;

Recalling the Antarctic Treaty, signed in Washington on 1 December 1959 and entered into force on 23 June 1961;

Reiterating the objective of the Treaty to ensure, for the benefit of all humanity, that Antarctica continues to be used forever for peaceful purposes exclusively and does not become the stage or object of international discord;

Noting with satisfaction that a growing number of countries join the Treaty;

Aware of the measures adopted under Article IX of the Treaty and of the associated and separate conventions regulating its activities in Antarctica;

Welcoming with satisfaction the recent adoption in Madrid of the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on the Protection of the Environment, which designates the Antarctic natural reserve devoted to peace and science; and

Convinced of the lasting effectiveness of the Antarctic Treaty for Antarctic Cooperation;

Declare which, for the benefit of all mankind, Antarctica should continue to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and, in this regard, they place their full commitment to further strengthen their cooperation in a decade of international scientific cooperation in Antarctica from 1991 to 2000, and record their achievements over the first thirty years of the Antarctic Treaty in the attached annex.

Annex

ANNIVERSARY TRIGESIMO OF THE STRATEGY IN VIGOR OF ANARTIAL TREATY

A unique agreement for a single continent

For thirty years, the Antarctic Treaty has joined the countries active in Antarctica in an agreement of singular success for the peaceful uses of a continent. Scientific research conducted by and cooperation between the Parties to the Treaty has shown the world that nations can work together for mutual benefit and for the benefit of international peace and cooperation. Antarctica is the largest intact continent on Earth and the Parties to the Treaty have devoted themselves to studying it and protecting this unique environment. The Antarctic Treaty represents an example for the world of how nations can work together successfully to preserve an important part of the planet, for the benefit of all humanity, as a zone of peace where the environment and science is protected is a prominent place.

Thirty years ago

The Antarctic Treaty was adopted by twelve Governments in 1959, at a time when international tensions were experienced in other regions of the world. The Governments of Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, South Africa and the Soviet Union, which had conducted scientific research in Antarctica during the International Geophysical Year, were convinced that the discords between them should not jeopardize the unique opportunities offered by Antarctica for science. The Treaty, which entered into force on 23 June 1961, guarantees, for the sake of the interests of all humanity, that Antarctica will continue to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and will not become the stage or object of international discord.

A continent devoted to peace and cooperation

The Antarctic Treaty contains the necessary arrangements to achieve its objectives. It prohibits any military action, prohibits nuclear explosions and the disposal of radioactive wastes. The Treaty guarantees freedom of scientific research and promotes international scientific cooperation. Article IV of the Treaty provides that disputes relating to claims of territorial sovereignty shall not prevent the parties to the Treaty from cooperating in the pursuit of the objectives of the Treaty. It provides for the exchange of detailed information on the activities carried out in Antarctica and ensures full freedom of access to all areas of Antarctica to ensure that the Parties comply with the provisions of the Treaty. Thanks to these provisions, the treaty has been successful in achieving its objectives.

The force of the Antarctic Treaty is growing and the parties to the Treaty currently account for 70 per cent of the world ' s population. Following its accession to the Treaty, Germany, Brazil, China, Ecuador, Finland, India, Italy, the Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Republic of Korea, Sweden and Uruguay have joined the first signatories as Consultative Parties. The Consultative Parties have welcomed the accession to the Treaty Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Greece, Guatemala, Hungary, Papua New Guinea, the People ' s Democratic Republic of Korea, Romania and Switzerland.

In accordance with Article IX of the Treaty, the representatives of the Parties meet regularly to exchange information and consult on matters of common concern, as well as to formulate and recommend to their Governments measures to support the objectives of the Treaty. In 1964, the Parties adopted the Conventional Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora. Subsequently, two conventions entered into force separately: the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctica and the Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Resources.

Committed in the protection of the environment

On 4 October 1991, the Parties adopted in Madrid the protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on Environmental Protection. The Protocol, which is an integral part of the Antarctic Treaty, designates Antarctica as a natural reserve devoted to peace and science. It establishes a comprehensive regime of legal obligations to ensure that activities undertaken in Antarctica by Parties respect the protection of the Antarctic environment and its dependent and related ecosystems.

Thirty-one Contracting Parties to the Antarctic Treaty signed the Protocol at the date of its adoption and undertook to take the necessary steps to bring the Protocol into force as soon as possible. In the meantime, the Parties shall ensure that, as far as possible and in accordance with their legal and constitutional systems, the provisions of the Protocol and its Annexes apply to their activities in Antarctica. The adoption of the Protocol in 1991 was a worthy tribute to the Thirty-sixth Anniversary of the Antarctic Treaty and was a sign of the interest of the Parties in the future operation of the Treaty.

Priority to science

The Antarctic Treaty Parties are fully engaged in scientific research in Antarctica, which has been efficiently coordinated by the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research since the 1950s. The Parties have long recognized the critical role played by Antarctica in understanding global environmental processes and the unique opportunity for research.

Antarctica is an exceptional opportunity for the free realization of science for the benefit of all humanity. It is a globally important, pristine laboratory that has allowed research to detect and monitor planetary environmental phenomena, such as thinning of the atmospheric ozone layer, global reheating and sea level modifications. Antarctic weather research has provided fundamental data for forecasts in the southern hemisphere. Glaciological research provides important information on the term balance and influence of Antarctica on climate. Geological and geophysical research in Antarctica provides new revelations about the geological history of the planet and the formation of the continents. The Earth's magnetic field makes Antarctica a particularly appropriate terrain for the study of interactions between the sun and the earth and the cosmic rays coming from outside our galaxy. The rigorous Antarctic environment offers unique opportunities to study the special adaptations of organisms to their environment and biological research facilitates the data necessary for decisions on marine living resources. Human biology and medicine report on man's physiological adaptation to extreme climates and isolation. The Parties to the Treaty have taken the necessary steps to ensure that the results of these important research efforts are fully available to all of humanity.

A natural reserve devoted to peace and science.

The Antarctic Treaty Parties pride themselves on the results achieved over the past thirty years and the example of peaceful cooperation that the Treaty offers to the rest of the world.

The determination of the Parties to maintain and strengthen the Treaty and to protect the Antarctic environment and its scientific values has been strongly demonstrated by the adoption of the protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on the Protection of the Environment and its decision to designate the Antarctic Nature Reserve devoted to peace and science.