Key Benefits:
President of the Republic,
On the report of the Prime Minister and the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs,
Seen them Articles 52 to 55 of the Constitution ;
Vu le Decree No. 53-192 of 14 March 1953 amended on the ratification and publication of international commitments undertaken by France;
Vu le Decree No. 61-1300 of 30 November 1961 publishing the Antarctic Treaty, signed on 1 December 1959;
Vu le Decree No. 98-861 of 18 September 1998 publishing the Protocol to the Treaty on the Protection of the Environment, signed in Madrid on 4 October 1991;
Vu le Decree No. 2005-1075 of 23 August 2005 Publication of Annex V of the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on Environmental Protection, Protection and Management of Areas, adopted on 18 October 1991,
Decrete:
Measure 2 (2004) ― Antarctic Protected Area System ― Management Plan for Specially Protected Areas (all five annexes) ― Adopted in Cape Town on June 4, 2004, will be published in the Official Journal of the French Republic.
The Prime Minister and the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs are responsible for the execution of this decree, which will be published in the Official Journal of the French Republic.
MEASURES 2 (2004)
ANARCTIC PROTECTED ZONE SYSTEM - MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR PROTECTED ZONES (SEMBLE 5 ANNEXES)
Les Représentants,
Recalling Articles 3, 5 and 6 of Schedule V to the Antarctic Treaty Protocol on Environmental Protection, which contain provisions relating to the designation of the special managed areas of Antarctica and the approval of management plans for those areas;
Recalling recommendation VIII-1 (1975) that designated Litchfield Island as a specially protected area No. 17, recommendation VIII-4 (1975) that annexed a management plan for the site with a particular scientific interest (SISP) No. 2: Arrival heights, Hut peninsula, island Ross, recommendation XIII-8 (1985) that annexed a management plan for SISP no.
Noting that the Environmental Protection Committee recommended that the area identified below be designated as a new specially protected area of Antarctica and that it approve the management plans annexed to this measure;
Recognizing that the area identified below is of considerable value in the field of science, fauna and flora, ecology, heritage and aesthetics, and that it would benefit from special protection;
Desireux adopt management plans for this area and for the specially protected area of Antarctica No. 113, and replace management plans for specially protected areas of Antarctica No. 122, 139 and 142 with revised and updated management plans;
Recommend for approval to their Government the following measure in accordance with Article 6, paragraph 1, of Annex V to the Protocol to the Treaty on Environmental Protection:
What:
1. The following area is designated as a specially protected area of Antarctica:
Specially protected area of Antarctica No. 162: Mawson Cabins, Commonwealth Bay, George V Land, Eastern Antarctica.
2. The management plans annexed to this measure and covering the following sites are adopted:
― specially protected area of Antarctica No. 113 ― Litchfield Island, Arthur Harbour, Antwerp Island, Palmer Islands, Antarctic Peninsula;
― specially protected area of Antarctica No. 122 ― Arrival Heights, Hut Point Peninsula, Ross Island;
― specially protected area of Antarctica 139 ― Point Biscoe, island Antwerp, Palmer Archipelago, Antarctic Peninsula;
― specially protected area of Antarctica No. 142 ― Svarthamaren, Muhlig-Hoffmannfjella, Dronning Maud Land;
- specially protected area of Antarctica No. 162, Mawson huts, Commonwealth Bay, George V Land, Eastern Antarctica.
3. That all previous management plans for specially protected areas of Antarctica no. 122, 139 and 142 cease to be in force.
MANAGEMENT PLAN
SPECIAL PROTECTED ZONE OF THE ANARCTIC N° 113 LITCHFIELD ISLAND,
PORT ARTHUR, ANVERS ISLAND, ARCHIPEL PALMER
1. Description of values to be protected
Litchfield Island (South latitude 64° 46', west longitude 64° 06', 2,7 km2), Arthur Harbour, Antwerp Island, Antarctic Peninsula, had, on the proposal of the United States of America, initially been designated as a specially protected area of Antarctica under recommendation VIII-1 (ZSP 17, 1975). If this site has benefited from this designation, it is because Litchfield Island, including its shoreline, housed a very important terrestrial and marine fauna and flora, that it represented a unique breeding site among the nearby islands for six aviary species of the place, and that it constituted a remarkable example of the natural ecosystem of the Antarctic Peninsula.
The current management plan reaffirms the initial reasons for the designation of avian communities. Indeed, the island is home to a mosaic of very diverse avian species that is representative of the Central-West region of the Antarctic Peninsula. The number of species observed in the breeding phase on Litchfield Island is seven and not six as it was first established. Among these species are the manchot Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae), the giant petrel (Macronectes giganteus), the ocean of Wilson (Oceanites oceanicus)the Dominican goeland (Larus dominicanus), Antarctic labbe (Catharacta maccormicki), brown labbe (Catharacta loennbergi) and the Antarctic Stern (Sterna vittata). The fact that these bird colonies were relatively undisturbed is an important value of the area.
In 1964, Litchfield Island contained one of the most important known layers of moss in the Antarctic Peninsula region, dominated by Warnstorfia laculosa which was then considered at its southern limit (Corner, 1964a). Indeed, W. laculosa was observed in some other places further south, including on Green Island (ZSPA No. 108, Berthelot Islands) and Avian Island (ZSPA No. 118, Marguerite Bay). As a result, the initial fact that this species is located at its southernmost boundary on Litchfield Island is no longer accurate. However, Litchfield Island represented at the time one of the most representative examples of Antarctic marine vegetation off the western coast of Graham Land. In addition, several benches of Chorisodontium aciphyllum and Polytrichum strictum spread over a depth of up to 1.2 metres were described in 1982 and were then considered to be the most representative examples of their type in the Antarctic Peninsula region (Fenton and Smith 1982). In February 2001, it was observed that these values had suffered greatly from the impact of fur-winged sea lions (Arctocephalus gazella) that have damaged and destroyed important areas of vegetation on the most accessible lower slopes of the island, by trampling and enrichment in organic matter. Some places, which were previously covered with thick layers of foam, were completely destroyed while others suffered medium or even severe damage. While the slopes of Deschampsia antarctica are more resistant and have supported the presence of fur lions, even in large numbers, important signs of damage are evident. However, in the most steep and elevated areas of the island, as well as in areas that are inaccessible to the sea lions, vegetation remained intact. Although vegetation is less important and some of the foam layers have been affected, the remaining vegetation retains a certain value and fully justifies the special protection of the island. Litchfield Island is characterized by its most varied topography as well as the widest variety of land habitats in all Arthur Harbour Islands.
Litchfield Island has benefited from special protection almost since the beginning of the modern era of scientific activities in the region, since access permits were only issued to meet essential scientific purposes. As a result, no large-scale sampling visits, research or activity were organized and its value as a protected terrestrial area was relatively undisturbed by human activities. The area therefore retains all its value as a reference site for several types of comparative studies, with some areas being used more intensively, and long-term changes in populations of certain species and microclimate can be observed. Access to the island is easy in small craft from nearby Palmer Station (United States of America), and Arthur Harbour is frequently visited by tourist ships. Continuous special protection is therefore essential to ensure that the area is at least disrupted by human activities.
The designated area encompasses the entire Litchfield Island above sea level with low tide, with the exception of islets and rocks at sea.
The management of Litchfield Island aims to:
― avoid any damage or risk of deterioration of the values of the area by preventing any unnecessary sampling and disruption of the area;
to allow scientific research on the natural ecosystem and the physical environment of the area, provided that such research is essential and cannot be carried out elsewhere, and that it does not affect the values for which the area is protected;
― minimize the risk of introducing exotic plants, animals or microbes in the area;
― to support the objectives and purposes of the management plan for management visits.
The following management activities should be undertaken to protect the values of the area:
– copies of this management plan, including maps of the area, will be made available to Palmer station on Antwerp Island;
– the terminals, panels and other structures established in the area for scientific or management purposes must be firmly fixed and carefully maintained;
– visits will be organized according to the needs (at least once every 5 years) to determine if the area is still meeting the objectives for which it was designated and to ensure that management and maintenance measures are adequate.
The area is designated for an indefinite period.
Map 1. ― Ile Litchfield, ZSPA No. 113.
This map shows the location of the island in relation to Arthur Port and Antwerp Island, as well as the location of the nearby stations (station Palmer, United States of America; the station Yelcho, Chile, as well as the site and historical monument Port Lockroy, United Kingdom) and surrounding protected areas.
Projection: UTM 20S rocket.
Spheroid: WGS84.
Data source: SCAR Antarctic Digital Database V4.0 (2002).
Encart : location of Antwerp Island and Palmer Archipelago relative to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Map 2. ― Ile Litchfield, ZSPA No. 113.
This map shows the physical features as well as the selected fauna and flora.
Projection: UTM zone 20S.
Spheroid: WGS84.
Datum: average sea level.
Equidistance of level curves: 5 m.
This map is based on a digital orthophotography with a vertical and horizontal accuracy of about 2 m (Sanchez and Fraser 2001). The north-eastern coastline and the adjacent islet at sea are beyond the boundaries of orthophotography and are digitized from a rectified aerial image covering a wider area (precision estimated at ± 10 m, image reference: TMA 3210 025V, 23/12/98). Data on the altitude of the small islet off the north-east coast are not available. Bird distribution data are from Fraser (Personal Committee, 2001). Depressions associated with sea elephants come from orthophotography.
Litchfield Island (South latitude 64° 46' 15'', west longitude 64° 05' 40'', 0,35 km2) is located at Arthur Port, approximately 1,500 m west of the station Palmer (United States of America), Gamage Point, Antwerp Island, in the western region of the Antarctic Peninsula known as Palmer Archipelago (Map 1). Litchfield Island is one of the largest islands of Arthur Harbour, extending over about 1,000 m in the northwest/southeast direction and over 700 m in the northeast/southwest direction. Litchfield Island presents the most varied topography and the most diverse land habitats in the Arthur Harbour Islands (Borner and Smith, 1985). Several hills rise to an altitude between 30 and 40 m, the height of 48 m in the western centre of the island (Map 2). Rocky outcrops are quite numerous, both on these slopes and on the coast. The island is in its majority free of ice in the summer, with the exception of the small snow concentrations found mainly on the southern slopes and valleys. cliffs with a height of up to 10 m constitute the coasts of the north-east and south-east, and bays in the north and south shelter pebble beaches.
The designated area encompasses the entire Litchfield Island above sea level with low tide, with the exception of islets and rocks at sea. The coast is in itself a clearly defined and visible demarcation line so that no demarcation device has been installed.
Few data are available regarding meteorology on Litchfield Island. However, temperature data were collected in two locations, one facing north and the other facing south between January and March 1983 (Komárková, 1983). The site facing the north proved to be the hottest of both, with temperatures from January, February and March 1983 fluctuating between 2 and 9 °C, 2 and 6 °C and 2 and 4 °C respectively. A maximum temperature of 13 °C and at least 3 °C was recorded on this site during this period. The site facing the south generally experienced a temperature of 2 °C, the temperatures of January, February and March 1983 oscillating between 2 and 6 °C, 2 and 4 °C and 3 and 2 °C respectively. A maximum temperature of 9 °C and minimum of 4.2 °C was recorded on this site during this period.
Data that are available over the long term for the station Palmer indicate relatively mild regional temperatures due to local oceanographic conditions and the persistence of a layer of frequent clouds in the Arthur Port area (Lowry, 1975). Monthly averages of air temperatures recorded for 22 years at the station Palmer vary from 7.8 °C in August (the coldest month) to 2.5 °C in January (the hottest month) (Baker, 1996). The minimum temperature recorded is ―31 °C and the maximum of 9 °C while the annual average is ― 2.3 °C. The storms and precipitation are frequent at the station Palmerlow to moderate winds being persistent and blowing from the north-east sector.
Litchfield Island is one of the many small rocky islands and peninsulas located along the south-west coast of Antwerp Island, which consist of an unusual assemblage of rocky type of the end of Cretaceous/early Tertiary called Altered Assembly (Hooper, 1962). The main types of rocks Altered Assembly are tonalite, a form of quartz diorite, and trondhjemite, a slightly colored plutonic rock. Granite and volcanic rocks rich in minerals (plagioclase, biotite, quartz and hornblende) are also very present in the area. Litchfield Island is characterized by a central strip of semi-pressed gray-grained fine-grained diorites, which separates between the east and west the trondhjemites and tonalites consisting mainly of medium grain and with a light grey colour (Willan, 1985). The eastern part is characterized by lighter threads on a length of up to 40 m depending on a north-south and east-west orientation. Small veins of quartz, epidote, chlorite, pyrite and chalcopyrite with a thickness of up to 8 cm are drawn according to a south/south-east orientation through tonalite. Plagioclasic phyric cords dark grey to fine grain bearing traces of magnetite follow an east/north-east south/south-east orientation. Many dark grey feldspath threads are present to the west; they can have a thickness of 3 m and display a north-south orientation and is/sud-est. Some of them overlap or are intersected by rare quartz, epidote, chlorite, pyrite, chalcopyrite and studite veins with a thickness of up to 20 cm.
The soils on Litchfield Island have not been described, although peaty soils with a depth of up to 1 m have been discovered in places where the growth of the foamy carpet is, or was, important.
Litchfield Island is home to some small lagoons. One of them located on a hill in the centre/north-east part of the island contains seaweeds Heterohormogonium sp. and Oscillatoria brevis. Another lagoon, located 50 m further south, contains Gonium sp., Prasiola crispa, P. tesselata and Navicula sp. (Parker et al. 1972).
The plant communities on Litchfield Island were the subject of a detailed study in 1964 (Corner, 1964 a). At that time, the vegetation of the island was very developed and comprised several distinct communities with a varied flora (Smith and Corner 1973). The two vascular plant species of Antarctica, Antarctic canche (Deschampsia antarctica) and Antarctic Sagina (Colobanthus quitensis) were listed on the island (Corner, 1964 a; Greene and Holtom, 1971; Smith and Corner 1973). Corner (1964 a) found that D. antarctica was often found along the north and north-west coasts of the island and that larger localized concentrations within the island populated the rocky benches containing mineral deposits (Greene and Holtom 1971). C. quitensis was present in two locations: a concentration on the north-eastern coast measuring about 9 × 2 m and a series of six napples scattered on steep and smooth slopes of the north-west coast. These two vascular plants are usually accompanied by a foam layer assembly, especially Bryum pseudotriquetrum (Bryum imperfectum), Sanionia uncinata ( Drepanocladus uncinatus), Syntrichia princeps (Tortula grossiretis) and Warnstorfia laculosa (Tortula grossiretis) Calliergidium austro-stramineum) (Corner, 1964 a).
On rather dry rocky slopes, several benches of Chorisodontium aciphyllum (Dicranum aciphyllum) and Polytrichum strictum (Polytrichum alpestre) were observed in 1982 at no less than 1.2 m of depth in some locations and are considered to be the most representative examples of their species in the Antarctic Peninsula region (Fenton and Smith 1982). Concentrations of mossy peat most exposed to natural elements are covered with crustacean lichens, a species of Cladonia spp., Sphaerophorus globosus and Coelocaulon aculeatum (Cornicularia aculeata). In deep and protected ravines, lichens cover is often dense and shelters Usnea antarctica, U. aurantiaco-atra and Umbilicaria antarctica. The peat P. strictum, of a thickness of 50 cm, was observed in areas raised to the hollow of a narrow east-west orientation valley. The liver Barbilophozia hatcheri and Cephaloziella varians have been associated with peat communities, especially in frosted canals, and often appear as specimens frozen on discovered humus.
A number of wetlands have been continuously observed on the island, and one of the most remarkable features of these areas is the most important layers of foams known to date in the Antarctic region, dominated by W. laculosa (Fenton and Smith, 1982). Other places, S. uncinata and Brachythecium austro-salebrosum form smaller concentrations. Pohlia nutans people the dryer areas where mosses communities merged with mossy peat.
Rocky surfaces are home to a variety of communities dominated by lichens to which the many epiphytic species observed on foam benches are added. An open community of lichens and bryophytes covered rocks and cliffs along the coast and in the centre of the island. The southern coast of the island is mainly home to lichen crustacean species, including Usnea antarctica and foams Andreaea depressinervis and A. regularis. Green seaweed Prasiola crispa form of small concentrations associated with manch colonies and other seabird habitats.
Other species observed in the area include hepatic Lophozia excelled ; lichens Buellia spp., Caloplaca spp., Cetraria aculeata, Coelopogon epiphorellus, Lecanora spp., Lecidia spp., Lecidella spp., Lepraria sp., Mastodia tessellata, Ochrolechia frigida, Parmelia saxatilis, Physcia caesia ; Rhizocarpon geographicum, Rhizocarpon sp., Stereocaulon glabrum, Umbilicaria decussata, Xanthoria candelaria and X. elegans ; and foams Andreaea gainii var. gainii, Bartramia patens, Dicranoweisia grimmiacea, Pohlia cruda, Polytrichastrum alpinum, Sarconeurum glaciale and Schistidium antarctici (British Antarctic Survey vegetation database, 1999).
In recent years, growing populations of fur-wing sea lions (Arctocephalus gazella) seriously damaged low-altitude layers and foam benches (Lewis-Smith, 1996, and Harris, 2001). Antarctic labbes (Catharacta maccormicki) establish their nest in the foam benches and cause limited damage.
The invertebrate fauna of Litchfield Island was not the subject of a detailed study. Late Macrobiotus furciger, Hypsibius alpinus and H. pinguis were observed in foam concentrations, mainly on the northern slopes of the island (Jennings, 1976).
Seven species of birds reproduce on Litchfield Island, which, as such, concentrates the most varied habitats in the Arthur Port area in terms of breeding avifauna. A small colony of Adélie casks (Pygoscelis adeliae) is located on the eastern part of the island and has been registered regularly since 1971 (see Table 1). The number of pairs in the breeding phase has decreased substantially over the past 30 years, a trend that Fraser and Patterson (1997) mainly attribute to long-term changes in snow accumulation cycles. The colony is located on a relief sensitive to the increase in snow accumulation which, in the event of persistence, may compromise the ability of the casks to establish their nests.
Table 1
Number of Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae) casks in breeding phase on Litchfield Island between 1971 and 2002
| 1971-72 | 890 | N3 | 2 | 1988-89 | | | |
| 1972-73 | | | | 1989-90 | 606 | N1 | 3 |
| 1973-74 | | | | 1990-91 | 448 | N1 | 3 |
| 1974-75 | 1 000 | N4 | 2 | 1991-92 | 497 | N1 | 3 |
| 1975-76 | 884 | N1 | 3 | 1992-93 | 496 | N1 | 3 |
| 1977-78 | 650 | N1 | 2 | 1993-94 | 485 | N1 | 3 |
| 1978-79 | 519 | N1 | 2 | 1994-95 | 425 | N1 | 3 |
| 1979-80 | 564 | N1 | 2 | 1995-96 | 410 | N1 | 3 |
| 1980-81 | 650 | N1 | 2 | 1996-97 | 346 | N1 | 3 |
| 1981-82 | | | | 1997-98 | 365 | N1 | 3 |
| 1982-83 | | | | 1998-99 | 338 | N1 | 3 |
| 1983-84 | 635 | N1 | 2 | 1999-2000 | 322 | N1 | 3 |
| 1984-85 | 549 | N1 | 2 | 2000-01 | 274 | N1 | 3 |
| 1985-86 | 586 | N1 | 2 | 2001-02 | 166 | N1 | 3 |
| 1986-87 | 577 | N1 | 3 | 2002-03 | 143 | N1 | 3 |
| 1987-88 | 430 | N1 | 3 | | | | |
The giant petals (Macronectes giganteus) reproduce in small numbers on Litchfield Island. Some 20 couples were registered in 1978-1979, including an incubating adult who had been beaten in Australia (Bonner and Smith, 1985). More recent data on the number of couples in reproductive phase are shown in table 2.
Table 2
Number of giant petrels (Great Macronectes) in breeding phase on Litchfield Island between 1993 and 2003 (precision of count: <± 5 per cent
| 1993-94 | 26 | 1998-1999 | 44 |
| 1994-95 | 32 | 1999-2000 | 41 |
| 1995-96 | 37 | 2000-2001 | 39 |
| 1996-97 | 36 | 2001-2002 | 46 |
| 1997-98 | 20 | 2002-2003 | 42 |
The fur lions (Arctocephalus gazella) made their appearance at Arthur Port in the mid-1970s and are now present on Litchfield Island from January of each year. Regular censuses conducted in February and March between 1988 and 2003 accounted for an average of 160 and 340 animals on the island during the respective months (Fraser, Personal Comment, 2003).
The sea elephants (Mirounga leonina) connect the accessible beaches from October to June, and their number has been estimated on average to 43 during the months since 1988 (Fraser, personal comment, 2003). The larger groups, of a dozen or more animals, are located in the valleys of low elevation on the north-eastern side of the island (see map 2). Some Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) are sometimes observed on the beaches. Crab-eating seals (Lobodon carcinophagus) and sea leopards (Hydrurga leptonyx) are often present on floating ice near Litchfield Island.
Strong tide currents exist between the Arthur port islands but the coast is home to many protected years (Richardson and Hedgpeth, 1977). Infratidal rock cliffs sink into an angle in a soft substrate at an average depth of 15 m and many rocky outcrops exist in this substrate at higher depths. The structure of the Arthur port sediments is usually quite blurred and consists mainly of low organic mud particles (0.43 to 0.88% weight).
The substrate consisting mainly of soft muds, which is located about 200 m off the north-eastern coast of Litchfield Island, has been rich in macrobenthic communities characterized by their large variety and a biomass of crustaceans, molluscs, arthropods and self-contained polycetes feeding on deposits (Lowry, 1975). Fish species Notothenia neglecta, N. nudifrons and Trematomus newnesi were observed at a depth of 3 to 15 m (De Witt and Hureau, 1979). Antarctic patella (Nacella concinna) is present in marine waters around Litchfield Island (Kennicutt et al., 1992 b).
In January 1989, the ship Bahia Paraiso failed 750 m south of Litchfield Island, spilling over 600,000 litres of hydrocarbons into the immediate environment (Kennicutt, 1990, and Penhale et al., 1997). Intertidal communities have been the most affected, and hydrocarbon-based pollutants have been detected in intertidal and infratidal sediments and patella (Nacella concinna) with an estimated mortality rate of more than 50% (Kennicutt et al. 1992 a and b, Kennicutt and Sweet, 1992, Penhale et al. 1992). However, this population began to grow shortly after the spill (Kennicutt 1992 a and b). The level of hydrocarbon pollutants detected on randomly selected intertidal sites on Litchfield Island was among the highest ever recorded (Kennicutt et al., 1992 b, Kennicutt and Sweet, 1992). It was estimated that 80 per cent of Adélie casks in nesting near the spill were exposed to hydrocarbon pollution, and that exposed colonies had an additional 16 per cent reduction in their population during this season due to this pollution (Penhale et al. 1997). However, few dead adult birds were observed.
The licensing records held by the United States of America indicate that in the period 1978-1992 only 35 people visited Litchfield Island and that approximately 3 visits were organized per season (Fraser and Patterson, 1997). This gives a total of about 40 visits over 12 years. However, as a total of 24 landings took place on the island during the two 1991-1993 seasons (Fraser and Patterson, 1997), it appears that these data are undervalued. However, the number of visits to Litchfield Island remained low during this period and this trend continued. The main objective of the visits was to identify birds and seals, and to study terrestrial ecology.
During plant studies on Litchfield Island in 1982 (Komárková, 1983), welding rods were introduced into the soil to mark the sites studied. A tip Biscoe (ZSPA n° 139) located nearby, many baguettes used in similar studies have been abandoned in situ and removed the surrounding vegetation (Harris 2001). The number of chopsticks that served to the site boundary on Litchfield Island is unknown and no data can indicate whether this material was subsequently removed from the site. However, a wand was found and removed from a site sheltering vegetation in a small valley, about 100 m west of the top of the island, after brief research conducted in February 2001 (Harris 2001). Further research would be needed to determine whether other welding rods are still in place on the island. No other human impact on the terrestrial environment was observed on 28 February 2001, but one of the two panels indicating that it was a protected area was in poor condition and poorly fixed.
The impact of human activities on the seals, birds and terrestrial ecology of Litchfield Island, from direct visits to the site, must therefore be considered a minor (Bonner and Smith, 1985, Fraser and Patterson, 1997, Harris, 2001).
With the exception of a cairn at the top of the island, there is no structure in the area. A permanent beacon, used for censuses and consisting of a 5/8 inch stainless steel threaded rod, was installed on the island by the USGS on 9 February 1999. It is located near the top of the island (South latitude 64° 46' 13,97'', longitude west 64° 05' 38,85'') at an altitude of 48 m and about 8 m west of the cairn (see map 2). The beacon is attached to the ground and has a red plastic identifier. A survival hiding place is located close to the ridge of a small hill overlooking the colony of Adélie casks, 100 m south of a small landing site by the sea.
(iv) Location of other protected areasThe protected areas closest to Litchfield Island are: Biscoe Point (ZSPA n° 139) located 16 km east of the area near Antwerp Island, South Bay (ZSPA n° 146) located about 27 km south-east of Doumer Island and Eastern Dallmann Bay (ZSPA n° 153) located approximately 90 km north-east of Brabant Island.
Access to the area is prohibited unless a permit has been issued by the competent national authorities. The criteria for issuing a permit to enter the area are:
a permit is issued only for the conduct of essential scientific research that it is impossible to undertake elsewhere, or for essential management reasons that are consistent with the objectives of the plan such as inspection, maintenance or review activities;
– Authorized actions will not jeopardize the ecological values of the area or the value of the area as a terrestrial reference site;
– all management activities are aimed at achieving the goals of the management plan;
– Authorized actions are consistent with the management plan;
- the detention of the permit or certified true copy is mandatory in the area;
a visit report must be submitted to the authority named in the permit;
any permit will be issued for a given period of time.
Minimum altitude of overflight
in the area by type of aircraft
| TYPE aircraft | NOMBRE engines | MINIMUM ALTITUDE* | |
| Pieds | Mètres | ||
| Helicopter | 1 | 2 460 | 750 |
| Helicopter | 2 | 3 300 | 1 000 |
| Fixed | 1 or 2 | 1 500 | 450 |
| Fixed | 4 | 3 300 | 1 000 |
(*) Altitudes from Working Paper WP026 (United Kingdom) of XXV RCTA (2002); if the CTN adopts a set of overflight guidelines, the plan will be revised to reflect the existing agreement.
Scientific studies that cannot be conducted elsewhere and do not affect the scientific values and ecosystem of the region.
Essential management activities, including monitoring.
The competent authorities shall be informed of any activity or measure that would not be authorized by the permit.
No structure may be installed in the area unless authorized in the permit, except for the census tags and the cairn at the top of the island, and any new permanent structure or installation is prohibited. All structures and all scientific equipment and tags installed in the area must be authorized by a permit for a specific period and clearly identify the country, the name of the person or agency responsible for the research team and the year of the facility. All equipment must be manufactured with materials that pose a minimum risk of wildlife disturbance and pollution in the area. Any activity related to installation (including site selection), modification, maintenance or removal of structures will be carried out in a way that minimizes disturbances of fauna and flora. The removal of structures, materials or tags for which the permit has expired will be one of the conditions for the issuance of this permit.
(iv) Camp location
The intentional introduction of animals, plants or micro-organisms is prohibited and precautions referred to in paragraph 7 (ix) will be taken in the event of accidental introductions. Prepared poultry must be free of disease or infections before being shipped to the area and, if introduced for food purposes, all parts of the poultry and all waste will be removed in their entirety and incinerated or boiled long enough to eliminate all bacteria or potentially infectious viruses. No herbicide or pesticide should be introduced into the area. Any other chemical, including stable radionuclides or isotopes, that may be introduced for scientific or licence-managed purposes, will be removed from the area at the latest as soon as the licence is completed. No fuel will be stored in the area unless authorized under the permit for scientific or management activities. All materials will be introduced to the area for a specified period. They will be removed from the said area by the end of this period, and will be handled and stored to minimize environmental risks. In the event of spills that are likely to adversely affect the values of the area, the materials will be removed to the extent that this withdrawal will not result in more serious consequences than leaving them in situ.
(vi) Plant removal and animal capture
Any capture or disturbance harmful to fauna and flora is prohibited except with a permit issued in accordance with Annex II of the Protocol to the Treaty on the Protection of the Environment. In the case of animal pests or disturbances, the SCAR Code of Conduct for Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica (SCAR Code of Conduct for the Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica) should be used as a minimum standard.
(vii) Picking up everything
The collection or removal of materials in the area may be authorized by the permit, but must be limited to the minimum required for scientific or management activities. Any material of human origin that is likely to have an impact on the values of the area and has not been introduced by the licensee or any other authorized person must be removed as such removal will not result in any more serious consequences than leaving it in situ. In this case, the competent authorities must be informed of this.
(viii) Waste disposal
All waste will be removed from the area. Human waste will be evacuated at sea.
(ix) Measures to ensure that the goals
1. Permits may be issued to enter the area in order to carry out biological evolution monitoring and site inspection activities that may involve sampling small samples for analysis, review or protection purposes.
2. All specific sites with long-term monitoring will be properly marked.
3. Visitors will need to take special precautions against any introduction in order to preserve the scientific and ecological values of Litchfield Island, which so far has remained relatively safe from human intervention. It is necessary not to introduce plants, microbes, pathogens and invertebrates from other Antarctic sites, including stations, or from other regions outside Antarctica. Visitors will need to ensure that all sampling and marking equipment introduced in the area is clean. The shoes and other equipment to be used in the area (backpacks, tents, etc.) will also need to be carefully cleaned before entering the area.
Parties shall ensure that the principal holder of each permit issued shall submit to the competent authorities a report describing activities in the area. These reports should include, where appropriate, information identified in the visit report form suggested by the SCAR. Parties must maintain an archive of these activities and, in the annual exchange of information, provide a synoptic description of the activities carried out by persons within their jurisdiction, with sufficient details to allow an assessment of the effectiveness of the management plan. Parties shall, to the extent possible, file the originals or copies of these reports in an archive to which the public may have access, in order to maintain an archive of use that will be used and in the review of the management plan and in the organization of the scientific use of the area.
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
MANAGEMENT PLAN
SPECIAL PROTECTED ZONE OF ANARCTICITY No. 122
HIGH HIGH, ROSS ISLAND
1. Description of values to be protected
A Arrival Height Zone was originally designated as a site of particular scientific interest (SISP n° 2) under recommendation VIII-4, on the proposal of the United States of America in 1975. Indeed, it was considered a quiet site from a natural and electromagnetic point of view, offering the ideal conditions for the installation of sensitive instruments designed to capture extremely low signals within the framework of high atmosphere study programs. Although it is established that the conditions of tranquility have deteriorated to some extent due to the operations of the bases and radiocommunication activities on the Hut Point peninsula, the nature, extent and extent of these transmissions are such that the starting values justifying the site designation always deserve to be protected. In addition, the initial geographical features of the site, such as its high position and, consequently, the clear view of the horizon, its morphology of volcanic craters and its proximity to the logistics infrastructure represented by the station McMurdo (United States of America) 1.5 km south and base Scott (New Zealand) 3 km south-east still make the area a privileged place for the studies of the high atmosphere and the boundary layer.
In recent years, the increase in logistical and scientific activities near the area has led to an increase in electromagnetic noise at the local level. It is proven that the values of the area as a quiet site are at risk as a result of broadband and narrow band electromagnetic interference, particularly from nearby stations, established by the Scientific Committee for Research in Antarctica (SCAR) in its recommendation XXIII-6 (1994). The proposed movement of the area and its associated infrastructure, however, faces scientific, financial and practical constraints. As a result, the preferred option for area management is to minimize internal and external sources of electromagnetic interference and to regularly monitor the levels of such interference so that any real threat likely to weigh on site values can be identified and spread as appropriate.
Since its initial designation, the site has been used to conduct several other scientific programs that have benefited from restrictions on access to the area. In particular, the clear vision of the horizon and relative isolation (moving from moving vehicles, exhaust gases, etc.) proved useful for spectroscopic research, atmospheric particle analysis, and studies on pollution, aurora and geomagnetism. These additional values are all the reasons why Arrival Heights warrant their special protection.
The area still has a high scientific value for the long-term collection of high-precision atmospheric data. Despite the proven risks of interference from close sources, the long-term data, the accessibility of the site for permanent observations, the geographic strengths of the site and the extremely high costs of moving the area justify the granting to the area of continuous and enhanced protection. The vulnerability of noise and chemical pollution research, especially electromagnetic interference, is such that the area deserves continued special protection.
The goals of the Arrival Height Management Plan are:
― avoiding the degradation of the values of the area and the substantial risks they might run by preventing unnecessary human disturbances in the area;
― allow scientific research in the area, including atmospheric research, while ensuring that the area is not used for purposes incompatible with this management plan and that uncontrolled equipment may be impaired by research in the area;
- to minimize excessive electromagnetic interference in the area by controlling the types, quantities and uses of the equipment installed therein;
∙ encourage respect for the values of the area in the management of activities and use of the land, including during the monitoring and attempts to reduce electromagnetic sources of radiation that may affect the values of the area;
to allow for management visits in accordance with the objectives of the management plan;
– allow access to the area for the maintenance, modernization and management of communications equipment located inside the area;
to allow for management visits in accordance with the objectives of the management plan;
- allow visits for educational purposes and for public awareness of scientific studies conducted in the area.
The following management activities should be undertaken to protect the values of the area:
– signs indicating the location and boundaries of the area (which clearly mention the access restrictions) will be installed at the appropriate locations within the boundaries of the area in order to avoid any inopportunity;
― signs indicating the location of the area (and mentioning any particular restrictions applicable thereto) will be displayed at a visible location and a copy of this management plan will be available in the area search space and at the station McMurdo and at the base Scott ;
– the terminals, panels and other structures set up in the area for scientific or management purposes must be firmly fixed, carefully maintained and removed when they are no longer needed;
- visits will be organized according to the needs (preferably once every 5 years) to determine whether the area is always meeting the objectives for which it was designated and to ensure that the management and maintenance measures for the site are adequate;
― electromagnetic noise levels will be surveyed in the area twice a year to detect any potential failure of the measurement systems and to assess the interference levels that may be unacceptable to the values of the area and, therefore, to identify and eliminate the sources of such interference;
– National Antarctic programmes in the region will work closely to ensure that these management activities are effectively implemented. Specifically, each program will appoint an activity coordinator who will be responsible for linking national programmes with respect to operations to be carried out in the area.
The area is designated for an indefinite period.
Map A. ― This regional topographic map shows the location of Arrival heights.
Specifications:
Projection: Consistent conical of Lambert.
Canned scale parallels: 1st 76° 40' 00" S, 2nd 79° 20' 00" S.
Central meridian: 166° 10' 00" E.
Latitude origin : 78° 01' 16,211" S.
Spheroid: WGS84.
Datum : McMurdo Sound Geodetic Control Network 1992
Encart : Ross Island area showing station location McMurdo (United States of America) and base Scott (New Zealand) and the location of other protected areas on Ross Island.
Map B. ― This topographic map shows the location of the Arrival Heights site.
The card specifications are the same as those of Map A. The level curves are derived from a numerical modeling of altitude.
(i) Geographical coordinates,
stubbornness and characteristics of the natural environment
The Arrival heights consist of a small chain of low hills and are located at the southeast end of the Hut Point Peninsula, southeast of Ross Island, 1.5 km north of the station McMurdo and 3 km from the base Scott. The Hut Point peninsula is formed by a row of craters extending south of the slopes of Mount Erebus. The basaltic rocks are particularly rich in ultramafic inclusions, including dunite, peroditite, pyroxenite, gabbro and sandstone. The soil mainly contains volcanic slag covering the volcanic swellings of Mount Erebus and a rocky and eroded volcanic magma. Arrival heights are often swept by violent winds and the climate is usually colder and more windy, which is why the snowy coat is reduced to its simplest expression.
The highest point of the area, called Second Crater, is 255 m and is one of the two inactive volcanoes located outside the boundaries of the area. The area extends from Trig T510 straight to the northwest and crosses First Crater to reach the level curve of 150 m. The line then follows this level curve northward to a point immediately west of Second Crater. From there, it extends east towards Second Crater whose end is the northeast corner of the area. The limit then extends straight to the south to reach Trig T510.
The research facility is approximately 220 m above sea level and the view of the Strait of Murdo, Mount Erebus and the Royal Society chain is unbeatable. Most of the station McMurdo is not visible from the facility, which contributes to the strengthening of the quiet character of the area from the point of view of radio frequencies.
Arrival heights are located at a geomagnetic latitude of about 80 degrees just above the boundary between the auroral zone and the polar cap. They are also close enough to the geographical hub, guaranteeing total darkness at noon, local time, for much of the year. Low intensity aural phenomena can therefore be easily observed. The fact that Arrival Heights are located near the geomagnetic pole means that they are permanently in the polar cap.
The area is a quiet site from an electromagnetic point of view and therefore offers ideal conditions to install sensitive instruments designed to capture high-resolution signals (lower to 1 minute) within the framework of research programs devoted to the high atmosphere. Arrival heights are also the closest site to the Strait of Murdo and the base Scott, which guarantees easy logistics and access throughout the year. A study of electromagnetic interference in 1993 on the Hut Point Peninsula and surrounding areas determined that the sound levels of Arrival Heights did not have the intensity of interference in more noisy areas, eliminating occasional mists from high amplitude noises in these areas.
Research teams of the station McMurdo and the base Scott make intensive use of the area. The scientific programs conducted in the Arrival Height Labs analyze natural phenomena in the atmosphere and terrestrial magnetosphere. The primary objective is to better understand the mechanisms that combine solar processes with those of the terrestrial environment. They focus in particular on the study of phenomena related to short-term environmental effects (aurores, induction of electric currents and radio frequency communication interference) as well as those in the long-term (solar forcing, ozone layer changes, atmospheric composition, stratospheric winds and meteorology). The instruments required for this task include radio and optical devices for remote detection, as well as sensors that continuously assess fluctuations in electrical and geomagnetic fields.
Instruments used to measure local fields, including geomagnetic field sensors and very low frequency receivers, are sensitive to disturbances from remote areas. Apart from natural sources, radio interferences are detected in the area and come from both inside and outside the area. Interferences from the inside of the area come from electric lines, vehicle ignition devices and laboratory equipment. Interferences from outside the area include communications (HF: 2-30 MHz, VHF: 30-300 MHz and UHF: 300-3 000 MHz), alarm systems used in the event of fire and tank level decreases, which use radiotransmissions, variety broadcasting systems, ships, aircraft, satellite radio and space surveillance radars. With regard to interference from both inside and outside the area, mention should be made of the equipment required for operations as well as appliances.
VLF antennas are located at the bottom of a large cone to be protected from the noise of local stations and radiotransmissions.
None.
(iii) Structures inside and near the areaNational programs in New Zealand and the United States of America have facilities for research and housing in the area. The New Zealand program intends to install a new laboratory during the 2003-2004 season. A satellite telecommunications station is located in First Crater.
(iv) Location of other protected areas
The protected areas closest to the Arrival heights are located on the island of Ross: Cape Evans (ZSPA n° 155) is the closest area to 22 km north, the Backdoor bay (ZSPA n° 157) is 32 km north, Cape Royds (ZSPA n° 121) is 35 km north/northwest, the Tramway peak cbus (ZSPA) The northwest of the White Island (ZSPA No. 137) is 35 km south of the other side of Ice Shelf Ross.
Access to the area is prohibited unless a permit has been issued by the competent national authorities. The criteria for issuing a permit to enter the area are:
a permit is issued for the scientific study of the atmosphere, in particular the work devoted to electromagnetic radiation, trace gas, aurora particles and geomagnetism, or for other scientific reasons consistent with the management plan;
a permit is issued for health and safety reasons, or for management reasons consistent with the objectives of the management plan, such as an inspection or audit;
a permit is issued for the management and maintenance of science support facilities (including communications equipment) provided that travel within the area is limited to the minimum necessary to access it;
a permit is issued for educational purposes and for public awareness of scientific studies conducted, provided that it is accompanied by authorized personnel responsible for the facilities visited;
a permit is issued for health and safety reasons, or for management reasons consistent with the objectives of the management plan, such as an inspection or audit;
– Authorized actions will not endanger the scientific values of the area;
- the detention of the permit or certified true copy is mandatory in the area;
- one or more visiting reports must be submitted to the authorities named in the permit;
any permit will be issued for a given period of time.
Access to the area is only allowed by vehicle or foot. The landing and overflight of aircraft in the area are prohibited. Where the requirements of management or scientific research require, landing or overflight will be exceptionally permitted in the area provided that they are mentioned in the permit. A prior written notification must be sent to the competent authority(s) and report on the research activities of scientists in the area at the time of the movement of an aircraft. The programming of activities should be duly coordinated in order to at least disrupt scientific programmes.
Vehicle access to the area is only allowed for those responsible for conducting scientific activities, carrying out repairs or maintenance of equipment, and installing new infrastructure in accordance with the permit, as well as for those duly authorized to participate in the visit. All other visitors must enter the area on foot and leave their vehicle at the Glacier Road intersection. Vehicle and foot movements shall be minimized according to the objectives of any authorized activity, and at any time it is appropriate to minimize any harmful effects. For example, personnel entering the vehicle area must plan their movement so that the vehicle is used at least. Vehicles must remain on the route reserved for them (see Map A), unless otherwise authorized in the permit. Pedestrians must also respect the paths for them.
Activities that can be carried out in the area include:
scientific studies that do not affect the scientific values of the area;
– management activities, including the installation of new structures to support the monitoring activities carried out in the context of scientific research;
– visitors entering the area may use portable or integrated radios to their vehicle, but they must limit this use to communications to meet safety, management and scientific research objectives.
No structure shall be erected in the area unless a permit specifies it. All scientific materials installed in the area outside of the research area must be authorized by a permit and clearly identified by country, name of the principal researcher and year of installation. All these articles must be made of materials that pose a minimum risk of environmental contamination of the area, and the electromagnetic compatibility of structures with the activities to be carried out in the area must be ensured. The material removal period will be specified in the permit.
No radio frequency transmission equipment will be installed in the area except for low-power transmitters used for essential local communications. The electromagnetic radiation produced by the material introduced in the area shall not have any harmful effects on the ongoing research unless specifically authorized in the permit. Precautions will be taken to ensure that the electrical equipment used in the area is shielded to reduce sound electromagnetic interference to a minimum level.
The installation or modification of structures or equipment in the area must be preceded by an assessment of the potential impacts of such operations on the values of the area, in accordance with national regulations. All details of the proposals and related impact assessments will, in addition to any other procedure that may be required by the competent authorities, be submitted by the researchers to the activity coordinator of their national programme, who in turn will exchange these documents with their counterparts of other national programmes present in the area. The activity coordinators will evaluate the proposals in collaboration with national program managers and relevant researchers to determine potential impacts on the natural or scientific environmental values of the area. They will consult and make recommendations (following as planned, continuing after revision, continuing the evaluation or not continuing) to their national program within 60 days of receiving a proposal. National programs will have to let researchers know whether they can or may not move forward with their proposals and under what conditions.
No camp is allowed in the area. Visits over one day are allowed in buildings equipped for this purpose.
(v) Restrictions on materials and organismsThere are no specific restrictions on materials and organisms that can be introduced into the area.
(vi) Plant removal and animal captureThe removal of plants and the capture of animals or disturbances harmful to fauna and flora are prohibited, except with a separate permit issued in accordance with Annex II of the Protocol to the Treaty on Environmental Protection. In the case of animal removal or harmful disturbances, the SCAR Code of Conduct for the Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica (SCAR Code of Conduct for the Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica) must be used as a minimum standard.
(vii) Abduction or abduction
Organizations may be taken or removed from the area only in accordance with a permit, and must be limited to the minimum necessary to meet scientific needs or management needs. Organisms of human origin that may affect the values of the area, organisms that have not been brought into the area by the holder of the permit or whose introduction has not been authorized, may be removed unless the impact of their removal is greater than that of the decision to leave them in situ. If this is the case, the competent authority must be notified.
(viii) Waste disposal
All waste must be removed from the area.
(ix) Measures to ensure that the goals
Permits may be issued to enter the area in order to conduct scientific monitoring and site inspection activities that may involve the collection of data for analysis and verification, or to take protective measures.
Any specific site under long-term monitoring will be properly marked.
Spectral bands of specific scientific entities that require special protection must be listed by the active parts in the area and the sound electromagnetic interferences must be maintained, to the extent possible, outside of this frequency range.
Any intentional electromagnetic radiation coming out of spectral bands and agreed power ranges is prohibited unless expressly authorized.
Parties shall ensure that the principal holder of each permit issued shall submit to the competent authorities a report describing the activities carried out in that area. This report should include, where appropriate, information identified in the visit report form suggested by the Scientific Committee for Antarctica Research. Parties must maintain an archive of these activities and, in the annual exchange of information, provide a synoptic description of the activities carried out by persons within their jurisdiction, with sufficient details to allow an assessment of the effectiveness of the management plan. Parties shall, to the extent possible, file the originals or copies of these reports in an archive to which the public may have access, in order to maintain a record of use that will be used and in the review of the management plan and in the organization of the scientific use of the area.
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
MANAGEMENT PLAN
SPECIAL PROTECTED ZONE OF ANARCTICITY N° 139
POINTE BISCOE, ILE ANVERS, ARCHIPEL PALMER
1. Description of values to be protected
Point Biscoe (south latitude 64°48'47''', west longitude 63°47'41'', 2,7 km2), island Antwerp, archipelago Palmer, Antarctic peninsula, had originally been designated as a site of particular scientific interest (SISP no. 20, 1985) under recommendation XIII-8, and on a proposal from the United States of America. This site had benefited from its designation because it contains a significant concentration (approximately 5,000 m2) but discontinuous of two local vascular plants, i.e. antarctic canche (approximately 5,000 m2).Deschampsia antarctica) and, less widespread, antarctic sagina (Colobanthus quitensis). A relatively well-developed lemon is under a closed vegetal carpet and contains a rich biota, including apter mustard Belgica antarctica. Long-term research programs could be at risk due to interference from the station Palmer nearby and tourist ships.
This management plan reaffirms the exceptional scientific and ecological values associated with invertebrate fauna and the highly developed flora in the area. In addition, it is noted that growth C. quitensis south of the 60th south parallel was observed for the first time at point Biscoe by Jean-Baptiste Charcot of the French Antarctic Expedition (1903-1905). Biscoe Point Island contains the largest communities in D. antarctica and C. quitensis in the vicinity of Antwerp Island, and these are unusually abundant to this latitude. In fact, the quantities are significantly higher than those described above, since almost half of the Biscoe peak island and most of the peninsula's free ice area northwards are home to very large vegetation concentrations. Communities extend over a large part of the free ice-free land available, concentration of D. antarctica and C. quitensis presenting periodically, and bryophytes as well as lichens that vary in density, covering an area of approximately 250,000 m2. A concentration of foam in the large valley on the northern side of the main island extends almost continuously over 150 m in the valley bed, covering an area of approximately 6,500 m2. Almost continuous individual concentrations D. antarctica and C. quitensis encompass a similar area on the main island and, to a lesser extent, on the promontory towards the north.
Several studies of plant populations were under way when the area obtained its designation in 1985. Although these studies were interrupted shortly after the designation, botanical research continued on the site. For example, seeds D. antarctica and C. quitensis Biscoe for the study of plants, in this case, examined the influence of climate change and UV-B radiation (Xiong et al. 2000). Point Biscoe presented an undeniable value for these studies due to the quantity and quality of the seeds available in the area. On the other hand, Point Biscoe is one of the few low-altitude sites where vegetation has not yet been too damaged by the fur lions and, as such, is a reference site to assess the impact of these lions on the vegetation and soils of the region.
Point Biscoe also has an interest in ornithological research. Long-term studies are currently under way on the Adélie Manchots colonies (Pygoscelis adeliae) and papous (Pygoscelis papua) present in the area. The existence of the Biscoe state-of-the-art poppuppy colony was established around 1992 and, given the recent date of its founding, it has a special interest in assessing long-term ecological changes relative to the dynamics and structure of local avian populations (Fraser, personal comment, 1999). The colony of Adélie casks is interesting for monitoring and comparison to other Arthur port colonies that are exposed to a much larger human influence. In this regard, the fact that the area has been protected from human beings and that its use has been regulated by a permit system for so long is of particular importance. The colony of Adélie casks is one of the oldest in the southern region of Antwerp Island (over 700 years old) and, as such, has a certain interest in paleoecological studies. The site is the only one in the region where brown labbes (Catharacta loennbergi), Antarctic labbes (C. maccormicki) and hybrid labbes are observed each year.
Until recently, Biscoe Point was on a peninsula connected to Antwerp Island by an ice ramp extending from the adjacent glacier. This ramp disappeared when the glacier departed, and a narrow canal now separates the island Antwerp from the island on which Biscoe is located. The initial perimeter of the area was a geometric form that extended to include a free ice promontory separated from 300 m north of the island and included an intermediate marine environment. The area as it is currently defined includes all the farmland located above the sea level at low tide, the island on which is located Biscoe Point (0.53 km2), all islets and rocks located off a distance of 100 m from the coast of the main island and most of the principally ice-free promontory located 300 m north (0.1 km2). The marine component has now been excluded from the area in the absence of information on its values. The area covers an approximate total area of 0.63 km2.
In summary, the Biscoe peak area stands out for the following reasons:
- examples of plant communities, soils and related terrestrial ecology;
- ornithological interest, with several avian species residing on the site; paleoecological characteristics related to unusual properties that are the subject of long-term studies;
– reference site for monitoring and comparative studies.
In order to protect the values of the area, it is important that visits remain very occasional and be managed with the utmost attention.
Biscoe cutting-edge management aims to:
- avoid any damage or risk of deterioration of the values of the area by preventing any human disturbance and any unnecessary sampling of the area;
- allow scientific research on the ecosystem and the physical environment associated with the values justifying the designation of the area, while protecting the area from excessive sampling;
― allowing other scientific research that is necessary, cannot be carried out elsewhere and does not prejudice the values justifying the designation of the area;
― minimize the risk of introducing exotic plants, animals or microbes in the area;
- allow for management visits in accordance with the objectives of the management plan.
The following management activities will be carried out to protect the values of the area:
– copies of this management plan, including maps of the area, must be made available to the station Palmer (United States of America) on Antwerp Island and station Yelcho (Chile) on Doumer Island;
– the terminals, panels and other structures established in the area for scientific or management purposes must be firmly fixed and carefully maintained;
– visits will be organized according to the needs (at least once every 5 years) to determine if the area is still meeting the objectives for which it was designated and to ensure that management and maintenance measures are adequate.
The area is designated for an indefinite period.
Map 1. ― This map shows the Biscoe peak location (ZSPA n° 139) compared to Biscoe Bay and Antwerp Island; it also shows the location of the surrounding stations [Palmer (United States of America), Yelcho (Chile) and the historic site and monument No. 61 Port Lockroy (United Kingdom) and the location of nearby protected areas.
Specifications:
Projection : UTM fuseau 20 S.
Spheroid: WGS84.
Data source: SCAR Antarctic Digital Database version 4.0.
Encart : location of Antwerp Island and Palmer Archipelago relative to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Map 2. ― This map shows the physical features and state-of-the-art access mode Biscoe (ZSPA n° 139).
Specifications:
Projection : UTM fuseau 20 S.
Spheroid: WGS84.
Datum: average sea level.
Equidistance of vertical level curves: 5 m
The map of the island where Biscoe Point is located was obtained by digital orthophotography with a horizontal and vertical accuracy of ± 2 m (Sanchez and Fraser 2001). The peninsula north of Biscoe Point, several offshore islands and Antwerp Island are located outside the boundaries of orthophotography. These features were digitized from a rectified aerial image covering a wider area (ref.: TMA 3208 006V, 23/12/98) and their accuracy is estimated at ± 20 m. No data is available on the altitude of these areas.
Map 3. ― This map points to Biscoe (ZSPA n° 139) indicates the manchots colonies, the approximate extent of vegetation and known polluted sites. The card specifications are the same as the card specifications 2.
(i) Geographical coordinates,
stubbornness and characteristics of the natural environment
General description
Point Biscoe (south latitude 64° 48' 47''', west longitude 63° 47' 41'') is located at the west end of a small island (0.53 km2) located near the southern coast of Antwerp Island (2,700 km2) approximately 6 km south of William Mountain (1,515 m), in the area west of the Antarctic Peninsula known as 1) Palmer. Until recently, this island was connected to Antwerp Island by an ice ramp extending from an adjacent glacier to the west, and many maps (now incorrect) place Biscoe Point on a peninsula. A narrow and permanent marine canal of about 50 m wide now separates the island on which Biscoe Point rests from Antwerp Island. A smaller stretch of land, mainly free of ice, measuring 300 m and facing north, remains united to the island Antwerp by an ice ramp such as a peninsula.
The island on which point Biscoe is located is approximately 1.8 km in its east-west direction and up to 450 m wide (see map 2). Its topography is composed of a series of low-altitude hills, the main east-west orientation peak at a maximum altitude of about 24 m. A small size polar cap (0.03 km2) is 12 m at the eastern end of the island where it was previously connected to the island Antwerp by an ice ramp. The coastline is irregular and generally rocky, cleared with islets and rocks at sea, and cut off by small coves. Some of the most protected coves house pebble beaches that are both accessible and not accidental. The anonymous promontory located in the north has an approximate length of 750 m (east-west) and a width of 150 m. It has the same characteristics with the exception of the lower altitude.
The station Palmer (United States of America) is located 13.8 km north-west of the area at Arthur Port, Yelcho Station (Chile) is about 12 km south-east of Doumer Island, while base A (United Kingdom, historic site No. 61) is located at the site and historic monument No. 61 of Port Lockroy, island Goudier (above the Wiencke Island 1).
The initial perimeter of the area was a geometric form that included the land associated with Biscoe peak, the free ice promontory separated from 300 m north as well as the adjacent islands and the marine environment. A recent detailed study provided little information to support the presence of values specific to the local marine environment. The marine area is currently not subject to scientific studies and no projects exist at this stage. In addition, it does not suffer any specific pressure or any threat requiring specific decisions in the area of management. For these reasons, the boundaries of the area were reviewed to exclude the marine environment. The area as it is currently defined includes all the farmland located above the sea level at low tide, the island on which is located Biscoe Point (0.53 km2), all islets and rocks located offshore over a distance of 100 m from the main island coast and most of the principally ice-free promontory located 300 m north (0.1 km2) (see map 2). The land (oriental) boundary on the northern promontory crosses the peninsula to the place where it emerges in the wing of Antwerp Island, characterized by a small bay cutting the glacier to the south and another similar coast, but less pronounced to the north. The entire area including the main island and the northern promontory is 0.63 km2.
No weather data is available for Biscoe Point, but these data exist for the station Palmer (United States of America) where conditions are supposed to be quite similar. Monthly air temperature averages recorded at station Palmer over a 22-year period range from 7.8 °C in August (the coldest month) to 2.5 °C in January (the hottest month) (Baker, 1996). The minimum temperature recorded was ―31 °C, the maximum temperature of 9 °C and the average annual temperature of ― 2.3 °C. The storms and precipitation are frequent at Palmer Station and the winds, although persistent, are generally low to moderate, from the north-east sector. The cloud cover is often dense, with its ceiling frequently below 300 m. Although these general trends apply according to any Biscoe state-of-the-art likelihood, the area is more exposed to elements, particularly those from the west and south, which can lead to some minor climatic differences.
No specific description is available on the geology of the island sheltering point Biscoe, nor on the peninsula in the north. However, the mother rock appears mainly composed of gabbros and apricotlites of the Upper Cretaceous/Lower Tertiary belonging to theAndean Intrusive Suite which dominates the composition of the south-eastern part of the island Antwerp (Hooper, 1958). The gabbro is dark, a plutonic rock with large grain that is, from a mineralogic point of view, similar to the basalt and is mainly composed of pyroxen and plagioclasic feldspar rich in calcium. Adamellite is a granite rock composed of 10 to 50% quartz and containing plagioclasic feldspath. A soil consisting of mineral ends characterizes low-accident terrain, but no precise soil analysis has been carried out to date. A relatively well-developed ice-cream is associated with Deschampsia's closed vegetable carpet.
The island on which Biscoe Point is located is home to a number of small rivers and seasonal lagoons that have not yet been the subject of scientific description. A small lagoon (maybe the largest, about 30 m × 8 m) and a small stream of water are located in a valley on the southern side of the main ridge of the island, 50 m northeast of a small landing site by sea (see map 2). The presence of a long rubber pipe indicates that at a given time visitors took fresh water from this site. Another fresh water lagoon, of similar dimensions (about 25 m × 6 m), is located in the east-west oriented valley of the northern part of the island. A small stream drains this lagoon to the west. The dulçaquicole environment has so far escaped major seal disturbances. No information is available on the hydrology of the separated promontory located north.
The most significant aspect of Biscoe state-of-the-art vegetation is the abundance and reproduction of two local plants: Antarctic canche (Deschampsia antarctica) and Antarctic Sagina (Colobanthus quitensis). Communities of D. antarctica and C. quitensis Biscoe peak are the most important in the immediate vicinity of Antwerp Island and are considered particularly abundant in such southern latitude (Greene and Holtom 1971; Komárková, 1983; Komárková, 1984; Poncet and Poncet, 1985. The growth of C. quitensis south of the 60th south parallel was observed for the first time (like C. crassifolius) near point Biscoe by the biologist Turquet participating in the French Antarctic Expedition (1903-1905) by Jean-Baptiste Charcot. More recently, seeds of these plants were taken from the area to study at the station Palmerthe effects of climate change and UV-B radiation exposure on these species (Xiong et al. 2000).
Foams predominate in the valley bed, near watercourses and lagoons, and in wet depressions. On the slopes of the valleys, mixed communities of moss and C. quitensis are frequent on the north slopes at low altitude, the presence of D. antarctica being more notorious at altitude. Communities of D. antarctica and C. quitensis are particularly prolific on the north slopes between 10 and 20 m while D. antarctica meets more frequently on sites exposed to elements at an altitude greater than 20 m. Foams and lichens are often co-dominant or subordinate taxons. In some habitats, C. quitensis is sometimes observed in small scattered napples. Dead vascular plants, measuring up to 20 m2, have been observed in the area and are probably the result of aridification, flooding and freezing during certain summers (Komárková, Poncet and Poncet, 1985).
Unlike other low-altitude coastal sites in the region, Biscoe peak vegetation does not appear to have been affected by the recent significant increase in the number of fur-wing lions (Arctocephalus gazella). As such, the area was selected as a potential site for assessing the impact of fur-wing lions on vegetation and soil (Day, T., in an email to C. Harris, 1999).
The Belgica antarctica apter has been observed in relation to the presence of a lemon and a very developed vegetable rug. No additional information is available on invertebrate assemblies in the area, but given the degree of development of plant communities, it is likely that there is a rich invertebrate fauna. Information is also not available on local fungal and bacterial communities.
At least six species of birds breed on the island on which Biscoe is located. The most important colony is the Adélie manchots (Pygoscelis adeliae), located on the ridge of a promontory on the south side of the island, above a narrow cove on the southern coast (see map 3). A colony of papous manchots (Pygoscelis papua) was discovered in 1992-1993 on the slopes of the northern face of this creek, on the south face of the ridge of the main island (Fraser, personal comment, 1999) (see map 3). Table 1 below contains data on the number of couples in the breeding phase.
Table 1
Number of Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae) and papous (Pygoscelis papua) casks on Biscoe Point Island (1971-2002)
| 1971-72 | 3 020 | N3 | 2 | 0 | N3 | 2 |
| 1983-84 | 3 440 | C3 | 3 | 0 | C3 | 3 |
| 1984-85 | 2 754 | N1 | 3 | 0 | N1 | 3 |
| 1986-87 | 3,000 | N4 | 4 | | | |
| .... | | | | | | |
| 1994-95 | | | | 14 | N1 | 5 |
| 1995-96 | | | | 33 | N1 | 5 |
| 1996-97 | 1 801 | N1 | 5 | 45 | N1 | 5 |
| 1997-98 | | | | 56 | N1 | 5 |
| 1998-99 | | | | 26 | N1 | 5 |
| 1999-00 | 1 665 | N1 | 5 | 149 | N1 | 5 |
| 2000-01 | 1 335 | N1 | 5 | 296 | N1 | 5 |
| 2001-02 | 692 | NI | 5 | 288 | N1 | 5 |
| 2002-03 | 1 025 | N1 | 5 | 639 | N1 | 5 |
The colonies of Adélie Manchots are among the oldest in the region (more than 700 years old) and have been subject to paleoecological studies while the colony of papous Manchots is considered particularly interesting because it is very recent (Fraser, personal comment, 1999). Long-term studies are being conducted on the structure and dynamics of the populations of manch settlements in the area. Useful comparisons can therefore be established with other Arthur port colonies that suffer important human influences (Fraser, personal comment, 1999).
Antarctic labbes (Catharacta maccormicki) and brown labbes (C. loennbergi) reproduce each year in the area and hybrid labbes are also found. On Biscoe Point Island, 132 couples of Antarctic Labbes and 1 couple of brown labbes were counted on February 26 and 27, 2001 (Harris, 2001). At the same time, 15 pairs of antarctic labbes, usually with one or two small, were observed on the promontory 300 m north. Dominican gulls (Larus dominicanus) and Antarctic sterns (Sterna vittata) reproduce in the area (Fraser, personal comment, 2000), but no data about their number is available. Information on other avian species reproducing in the area or occasionally visiting is also not available.
A small number of fur lions (Arctocephalus gazella) that do not reproduce in the area were nicknamed on the island at the end of February 2001 (Harris, 2001) and Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) and sea elephants (Mirounga leonina) were observed on the beaches in summer. Despite the presence of beaches and land that can be used as a seal drop point, seals are generally not observed in large numbers in the area. This phenomenon may be due to the frequent persistence of dense and brittle ice from the glaciers of nearby Antwerp Island (Fraser, personal comment, 1999). Additional information is not available on the number and phases of reproduction as well as on other seal species, nor on the local marine environment.
Human activity in the area seems to have been little important, but there is little information about it. The first activity of the man documented in the Biscoe peak region dates from 150 years ago when John Biscoe, of the Royal Navy, entered the bay that bears his name today, February 21, 1832. Biscoe recorded his landing on Antwerp Island, probably near Biscoe, to take possession, on behalf of the United Kingdom, of what he believed to be part of the Antarctic continent (Hattersley-Smith, 1991). The next documented Biscoe tour dates back to 1903-1905 when Turquet observed C. quitensis on the site of the first French Antarctic expedition led by Charcot.
More recently (1982), plots were officially established for the study of plants on the island near the point of Biscoe (Komárková, 1983), although long-term research initially planned ended shortly after. Komárková has used welding rods inserted in the ground for limiting the sites reserved for studies. A partial survey made it possible to accurately define the positions (± 2 m) of 44 welding rods found in soil and vegetation during a systematic search on the northeast side of the island in February 2001 (see map 3) (Harris, 2001). The chopsticks were located in a place where the island's vegetation is particularly abundant and spread over a surface of at least 8,000 m2. In general, they were placed in the soil or vegetation, in a well-defined sense, namely the chemically oriented end. Therefore, the polluting agents of the baguettes seemed to have destroyed all vegetation in a diameter of 20 cm around the baguette. Many baguettes – probably hundreds – were discovered in previous seasons (Fraser, Patterson, Day T.: personal comment in an email to C. Harris, 1999-2002). All discovered rods have been removed from the area that is not considered an ideal reference site to measure chemical pollution because uncertainty still prevails over the presence of certain concentrations and certain types of pollutants, affected sites, and the extent of pollutant penetration in soils, water and biological systems.
Fraser (Personal Committee, 2001) documented the presence of lead terminals in the papous manchots colony. In addition, waste from the marine environment (mainly wood) has been discovered on beaches as well as a rubber pipe (15 m long and ± 15 cm in diameter) in a small valley near a small sea landing site located in the south, which could have been used at a time for water supply.
Recent scientific studies in the area focused on the monitoring of labbes and manchots in reproductive phase. Point Biscoe was also used for seed sampling Deschampsia and Colobanthus ecological research in the station area Palmer. Permits are required to visit the area since it was specially protected, i.e. since 1985.
None.
(iii) Structures inside and near the area
The closest protected areas of Biscoe Point are: Litchfield Island (ZSPA No. 113) which is located 16 km west of the Arthur Port Area, South Bay (ZSPA No. 146), which is about 12 km southeast on Doumer Island, and Eastern Dallmann Bay (ZSPA No. 153) which is about 85 km northeast of the island.
Access to the area is prohibited unless a permit has been issued by the competent national authorities. The criteria for issuing a permit to enter the area are:
a permit is issued only for the scientific study of the ecology of the area or other scientific study that does not affect the values justifying the designation of the area;
a permit is issued for essential management reasons that are consistent with the objectives of the plan such as inspection, maintenance or review activities;
– Authorized actions will not endanger the ecological or scientific values of the area;
– all management activities are aimed at achieving the goals of the management plan;
– Authorized actions are consistent with the management plan;
- the detention of the permit or certified true copy is mandatory in the area;
a visit report must be submitted to the authority named in the permit;
any permit will be issued for a given period of time.
Access to the area will be allowed in small craft, aircraft or, by marine ice, by vehicle or by foot.
Embarcation Minimum altitude of overflight in the area
by type of aircraft
| ERONEF TYPE | NOMBRE engines | MINIMUM ALTITUDE relative to the ground | |
| Pieds | Mètres | ||
| Helicopter | 1 | 2 460 | 750 |
| Helicopter | 2 | 3 300 | 1 000 |
| Fixed | 1 or 2 | 1 500 | 450 |
| Fixed | 4 | 3 300 | 1 000 |
When access is possible by marine ice, no restrictions are imposed on the location by which access to the site is required. However, vehicles should not be introduced to the farmland in the area.
Access and movement in the area Scientific studies that do not affect the scientific values and ecosystem of the region.
Essential management activities, including monitoring.
The competent authorities shall be informed of any activity or measure that would not be authorized by the permit.
No structure may be installed in the area unless authorized under the permit, except for census tags, and any new permanent structure or installation is prohibited. All structures and all scientific equipment and tags installed in the area must be authorized by a permit for a specific period and clearly identify the country, the name of the person or agency responsible for the research team and the year of the facility. All equipment must be manufactured with materials that pose a minimum risk of wildlife disturbance and pollution in the area. Any activity related to installation (including site selection), modification, maintenance or removal of structures will be carried out in a way that minimizes disturbances of fauna and flora. The removal of structures, materials or tags for which the permit has expired will be one of the conditions for the issuance of this permit.
(iv) Camp locationThe temporary camp is allowed in the area at the designated location located approximately 50 m northeast of the helicopter landing site (A) on the northern coast of the main island on which Biscoe Point is located. The site reserved for this effect is located on a rocky soil and beach pebbles, a few meters above sea level, directly north of a temporary tidal basin, and is separated from the sea further north by a fairly low rocky peak of about 8 m. Where the objectives specified in the permit require, a temporary camp may be established on the separate peninsula at 300 m north, but no specific site has been defined. Any camp cannot be established on a particularly abundant plant cover.
(v) Material restrictionsThe intentional introduction of animals, plants or micro-organisms is prohibited and precautions referred to in paragraph 7 (ix) will be taken in the event of accidental introductions. Prepared poultry must be free of disease or infections before being shipped to the area and, if introduced for food purposes, all parts of the poultry and all waste will be removed in their entirety and incinerated or boiled long enough to eliminate all bacteria or potentially infectious viruses. No herbicide or pesticide should be introduced into the area. Any other chemical, including stable radionuclides or isotopes, that may be introduced for scientific or licence-managed purposes, will be removed from the area at the latest as soon as the licence is completed. No fuel will be stored in the area unless authorized under the permit for scientific or management activities. All materials will be introduced to the area for a specified period. They will be removed from the said area by the end of this period, and will be handled and stored to minimize environmental risks. In the event of spills that are likely to adversely affect the values of the area, the materials will be removed to the extent that this withdrawal will not result in more serious consequences than leaving them in situ.
(vi) Plant removal and animal captureAny capture or disturbance harmful to fauna and flora is prohibited except with a permit issued in accordance with Annex II of the Protocol to the Treaty on the Protection of the Environment. In the case of pest removals or disturbances of animals, SCAR Code of Conduct for Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica (SCAR Code of Conduct for the Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica) should be used as a minimum standard.
(vii) Picking up or removing anythingThe collection or removal of anything that has not been brought into the area by the holder of the permit may be carried out only in accordance with the permit, but must be limited to the minimum required for scientific or management activities. Any material of human origin that is likely to have an impact on the values of the area and has not been introduced by the licensee or any other authorized person must be removed as such removal will not result in any more serious consequences than leaving it in situ. In this case, the competent authorities must be informed of this.
(viii) Waste disposalAll waste will be removed from the area. Human waste will be evacuated at sea.
(ix) Measures to ensure that the goals 1. Permits may be issued to enter the area in order to carry out biological evolution monitoring and site inspection activities that may involve sampling small samples for analysis, review or protection purposes.
2. All specific sites with long-term monitoring will be properly marked.
3. Visitors will need to take special precautions against any introduction in order to preserve the scientific and ecological values of Litchfield Island, which so far has remained relatively safe from human intervention. It is necessary not to introduce plants, microbes, pathogens and invertebrates from other Antarctic sites, including stations, or from other regions outside Antarctica. Visitors will need to ensure that all sampling and marking equipment introduced in the area is clean. The shoes and other equipment to be used in the area (backpacks, tents, etc.) will also need to be carefully cleaned before entering the area.
Parties shall ensure that the principal holder of each permit issued shall submit to the competent authorities a report describing activities in the area. These reports should include, where appropriate, information identified in the visit report form suggested by the SCAR. Parties must maintain an archive of these activities and, in the annual exchange of information, provide a synoptic description of the activities carried out by persons within their jurisdiction, with sufficient details to allow an assessment of the effectiveness of the management plan. Parties shall, to the extent possible, file the originals or copies of these reports in an archive to which the public may have access, in order to maintain an archive of use that will be used and in the review of the management plan and in the organization of the scientific use of the area.
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
MANAGEMENT PLAN
PROTECTED ONERATIC SPECIFIC N° 142
SVARTHAMAREN
1. Description of values to be protected
Originally, this site was designated in recommendation XIV-5 (1987, Site of special scientific interest No. 23) on the proposal of Norway. This proposal was based on the following factors, which still provide reasons for its designation:
― the fact that the colony of the Antarctic petrels (Thalassoica antarctica) is the known colony of the largest seabirds found inside the lands of the Antarctic continent;
– the fact that this colony represents a large part of the world's known population of the Antarctic petrels;
― the fact that this colony is an exceptional natural research laboratory that allows research on the Antarctic pilgrimage, on the snow scallop (Pagodroma nivea) and on the Antarctic Labbe (Catharacta maccormicki) as well as their adaptation to reproduction within the lands of Antarctica.
The goals of the Svarthamaren management plan are:
― avoiding changes caused by man to the structure, composition and size of the population of the seabird colonies present on the site;
― preventing the seabird colonies and surrounding environment from being subjected to unnecessary disturbances;
― allow the realization of quiet research on the adaptations of the petrel of Antarctica, the stern of snow and the Antarctic labbe to the conditions prevailing in the interior of the lands of Antarctica (primary research);
― allow, for other scientific reasons, access to the site where research does not affect the objectives of bird research.
The objectives of main research in the Svarthamaren ZSPA are:
― to gain a better understanding of how natural and anthropogenic changes in the environment influence distribution in time and space of animal populations and, moreover, how these changes affect the interaction between key species in the Antarctic ecosystem.
Management activities in Svarthamaren:
– ensure that seabird colonies are adequately monitored, to the extent possible with non-invasive methods;
― will allow for the erection of signs/pannels and terminals especially concerning the site and to ensure that they are carefully maintained and maintained in good condition; and
―will include visits to determine whether the area continues to meet the purposes for which it was designated and to ensure that management and maintenance measures are adequate.
Any management activity that represents a direct intervention in the area must be subject to an environmental impact assessment before it is decided or not to carry it out.
The area is designated for an indefinite period.
Map A. ― Terre Dronning Maud (indicates the location of map B).
Card specifications :
Projection: Consistent conical of Lambert.
Parallel types : SP1 70° S, SP2 73° S.
Central meridian: 5° E.
Original latitude : 71° 30' S.
Spheroid: WGS84.
Map B. ― Svarthamaren and its surroundings (indicates the Svarthamaren ZSPA location). The specifications are the same as for card A.
Map C. ― Specially protected area of Antarctica No. 142, topographic map of the protected area. The specifications are the same as for card A.
The ZSPA of Svarthamaren is located in Mühlig-Hoffmannfjella, land of Dronning Maud. It extends from northwest (71° 33' 17''' south latitude; 5° 09' 12''' east longitude) southeast (71° 55' 58''' south latitude; 5° 15' 12''' east longitude). The distance from the ice front is about 200 km. The area has an area of approximately 6.4 km2 and consists of free ice zones of the Svarthamaren nunatak, including areas located close to the free ice areas of course that belong to the nunatak (i.e., rocks). The area appears on maps B and C.
The Norwegian resort Tor is located on the nunatak of Svarthamaren (71° 53' south latitude); 5° 10' east longitude). The station, including a 10-metre buffer zone around the buildings, is excluded from the specially protected area of the Svarthamaren Antarctica. To get there, we take the shortest route from the ice.
The main types of rock encountered in the area are large to medium grain charnockites that contain small amounts of xenollites. The charnockites have inclusions of ribbed gneiss, amphibolites and amphibololitic granites. The slopes are covered with decomposed feldspathic sand. The north-east side of the Svarthamaren nunatak is dominated by steep slopes (sale from 31° to 34°), which extend over 240 m up from the foot of the mountain to about 1,600 m above the sea level. The main features of this area are two rocky amphitheatre that live in the breeding phase of the Antarctic petrus. This area is the core of the protected site.
No continuous meteorological observations were made in the area but it was found that the air temperature normally varies between ―5 and ―15 °C in January, with minimal temperatures slightly lower in February.
The flora and vegetation in Svarthamaren are sparse if compared to those in other areas in Mühlig-Hoffmannfjella and Gjelsvikfjella, which are located west of the site. The only plant species found in abundance but on the periphery of the most fertilized areas is the giant green algae, Prasiola crispa. There are some lichen species on a wandering block transported by a glacier at 1 or 2 km from the bird colonies. These are: Candelariella hallettensis (= C. antarctica), Rhizoplaca (= Lecanora) melanophthalma, Umbilicaria spp. and Xanthoria spp. The areas covered by Prasiola are inhabited by collemboles (Cryptopygus sverdrupi) as well as a rich almond fauna (Eupodes anghardi, Tydeus erebus), protozoa, nematodes and rotifers. A shallow pond of about 20 m × 30 m below the central sub-colony and the largest of birds in Svarthamaren is heavily polluted by petrels carcasses and feeds an unicellular algae of greenish yellow, Chlamydomonas spp. We haven't found any aquatic invertebrates yet.
Seabird colonies are the most visible biological element in the area. The northwest slopes of Svarthamaren are occupied by a colony very populated with Antarctic petrals (Thalassoica antarctica) that are divided into three separate sub-colonies. The total number of reproduction couples is estimated at approximately 250,000. In addition, from 500 to 1,000 pairs of snowshoes (Pagodroma nivea) and about 80 couples of Antarctic Labbe (Catharacta maccormicki) reproduce in the area. The two main colonies of the Antarctic Peninsula are in the two rocky amphitheatre. The main snowflake colonies are located in separate parts of the gradient that are characterized by larger rocks. Antarctic labbes nest their nest on the narrow strip of snow-free flat soil that is below the gradients.
The main concentrations of seabirds are shown on Map C. However, readers must know that birds are also found in other areas than those very populated areas.
None.
(iii) Structures inside the area There is no structure inside the area.
The Norwegian resort Tor is located on the nunatak of Svarthamaren (71° 53' 4'' south latitude); 5° 09' 6'' east longitude). The station, including a 10-metre buffer zone around the buildings, is excluded from the area.
There are no other protected areas in the area.
Permits may only be issued by competent national authorities as designated under Article 7 of Annex V to the Protocol to the Treaty on Environmental Protection. The general conditions governing the issuance of a permit to enter the area are:
– authorized shares are in accordance with this management plan;
– the permit or a copy will be carried inside the area;
the permit will be valid for a given period of time;
a visit report is submitted to the authority designated in the permit.
Access to the area is limited by the following conditions:
― no pedestrian road is designated but people who move on foot must at any time avoid disturbing birds and, to the extent possible, also the thin vegetal cover in the area;
- vehicles must not enter the site;
- the overflight of helicopters or other aircraft over the area is prohibited;
– Helicopter landings within the APAA are prohibited. Landings associated with activities conducted at the Tor station should preferably take place at the northeast end of the Svarthamaren nunatak (Map C).
The following activities may be carried out within the area in accordance with the permit issued:
- primary biological research programs for which the area was designated;
– other research programs of an indispensable scientific nature that do not interfere with bird research in the area.
No structure shall be erected in the area and no scientific material shall be installed in the area except where such material is essential for scientific activities or management activities as may be provided in a permit.
(iv) Camp locationIt is forbidden to install camps in the area. The Tor station must be used only with the permission of the Norwegian Polar Institute.
(v) Restrictions on materials and organisms No living animal and no form of vegetation will be deliberately introduced into the area.
No poultry product, including non-cooked powdered eggs, will be introduced into the area.
No herbicide or pesticide will be introduced into the area.
All chemicals (including fuels) that may be introduced for essential scientific reasons referred to in the permit will be removed from the area to or before the end of the activity for which the permit was issued. Limited fuel storage at Tor station is acceptable because the station and its immediate surroundings are not part of the area.
All materials introduced in the area will be removed for a given period, removed at or before the end of the given period and will be stored and managed so that the risk of introducing them into the environment will be minimized.
The removal of plants and the capture of animals or disturbances harmful to fauna and flora are prohibited, except with a permit issued in accordance with Annex II of the Protocol to the Treaty on Environmental Protection. In the case of pest removal or disturbance of animals, SCAR Code of Conduct for Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica (SCAR Code of Conduct for the Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes in Antarctica) should be used as a minimum standard.
It is recommended that those responsible for major research in the area be consulted before a permit is granted to capture birds for purposes not associated with this type of research. Studies for which bird capture for other purposes is necessary must be planned and carried out in such a way that this operation will not interfere with the achievement of the objectives of bird research in the area.
Materials may be collected or removed from the area only under a permit, except that debris of human origin must be removed and that dead specimens of fauna may be removed for laboratory examination.
(viii) Waste disposalAll waste must be removed from the area.
(ix) Measures to ensure that the goalsPermits may be issued to enter the area and engage in biological monitoring and site inspections that may involve the collection of small quantities of plant material or small numbers of animals for analysis or audit purposes, the erection or maintenance of notice panels, the maintenance of the station or the taking of protective measures.
(x) Visit reportsParties shall ensure that the principal holder of each permit issued shall submit to the competent authorities a report describing activities in the area. This report should include, where appropriate, information identified in the visit report form suggested by the Scientific Committee for Antarctica Research. Parties must maintain an archive of these activities and, in the annual exchange of information, provide a synoptic description of the activities carried out by persons within their jurisdiction, with sufficient details to allow an assessment of the effectiveness of the management plan. Parties shall, to the extent possible, file the originals or copies of these reports in an archive to which the public may have access, in order to maintain an archive of use that will be used and in the review of the management plan and in the organization of the scientific use of the area.
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
Annex V
MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR THE PROTECIALLY PROTECTED ANTARCTICY N° 162 CABANES MAWSON CAP DENISON, BAIE DU COMMONWEALTH, TERRE GEORGE V LAND, ANTARCTICIQUE ORIENTAL 67° 00' 30''' DE LATITUDE SUD, 142° 39' 40'''' DE LONGITUDE EST Mawson huts are known as four wooden huts that served as a winter base for the 1911-14 Australasian Antarctic expedition mounted and directed by the Douglas Mawson geologist. An important symbol of the famous heroic era of Antarctic exploration (1895-1917) the cabins at Cape Denison are, from all the structures dating from that time, those that were least disturbed or modified. Mawson's expedition can be attributed to some of the first most comprehensive studies ever made of geology, glaciology, oceanography, geography, geomagnetism, astronomy, meteorology, biology, zoology and botany in Antarctica. If this ZSPA is proposed, it is because the Mawson huts include a site of historical, archaeological, technical, social and aesthetic values.
Historical value
The Mawson cabins in Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay, were the main base of the 1911-14 Australasian Antarctic expedition, led by Douglas Mawson. It is one of the six sites of the heroic era that remain today.
Mawson huts are one of the groups of shacks of the heroic era; their construction results from the imperative need to provide permanent shelter adapted to the polar conditions of the Antarctic environment.
The Mawson cabins were built in January, February and March 1912 and May 1913. In their environment and the form in which they remain, they are evocative of the isolation of Cap Denison and the extreme conditions prevailing there. They also testify to the lack of space in which the members of the expedition had to live there: in the main cabin, for example, the accommodation is limited to a single space of 7.3 m x 7.3 m where 18 men had to sleep and prepare their meals.
The exterior structure and interior layout of the main hut are simple but robust in architectural terms and present in the form of a square base surmounted by a pyramidal roof that avoids the direct impact of the blizzard, the natural lighting being brought by light wells. After it was decided to connect the two shipping bases in a single one, a housing hut, topped by a croupe roof of 5.5 m x 4.9 m, was annexed to the housing premises and arranged in a workshop. A 1.5 metre veranda, taken under the same roof, borders the building on three sides. She served as a storage space but also wasolates the cabin of the weather.
The tank of the two structures comprising the main hut was built in pine of Oregon and dressed in panels filled with Baltic pine. The huts were prefabricated in Australia and rebuilt on the site by means of a code of letters stamped on the pieces of the building and painted colors on the ends of the panels. (No member of the expedition had any prior construction experience.) The survival of the main hut on one of the most eventive sites on the planet attests to the solidity of its configuration and the care with which it was built.
Mawson huts contain many important and more or less intact objects dating from the heroic era; These objects not only constitute valuable material resources for research and interpretation, but could still reveal many information about the lives of the members of the expedition who do not appear in written records.
The other three huts are:
― the hut Absolute Magnetic, built in February 1912. It measures 1.8 m × 1.8 m and is topped by a Skillion roof. Its cart, made of Oregon pine, was covered with panels made of salvage wood. It was used in relation to observations made at the hut Magnétograph and served as a reference point. Today it is considered a ruin on foot;
― the hut Magnétograph was built in March 1912 to house the measuring apparatus of variations of the South magnetic pole. It measures 5.5 m × 2 m, is surmounted by a low tilt and has no windows. After the violent destruction of the first building, large rocks were piled up against the hut to protect it from the wind. Mould skins and jute canvases had been attached to the roof to help maintain a constant temperature inside and minimize snow inflitations. These innovations probably explain why the cabin is even more or less intact today;
― the construction of the hut Transit began in May 1913; It is made of crate wood panels attached to a pine building in Oregon. The structure was also dressed in sheep and large canvas. First called the Astronomical Observatory, the hut sheltered theodolite used to determine the exact longitude of Cape Denison from the star position. Today it is considered a ruin.
Aesthetic values
Mawson huts also have an aesthetic value; their architectural form attests to a search for operational efficiency adapted to their location and to the rigors faced by the members of the expedition. Their wear and condition of deterioration of the remains are evocative of the passage of time and the rigor of climate conditions.
2.0 Goals and objectives The purpose of this management plan is to ensure the protection of huts to preserve their values. The area management aims to:
― avoiding the degradation of the values of the area and the substantial dangers that threaten it;
– preserve the historical values of the area by establishing a conservation work programme (see note 1);
- authorize management activities that promote the protection of the values and characteristics of the area;
― enabling scientific research; and
― to prevent unnecessary disturbances that man could cause to the area, its characteristics and its objects in general, ensuring the proper management of access to the four cabins of the Southern Antarctic expedition.
The following management activities may be undertaken to protect the values of the area:
– programs for conservation and archaeology, as well as on-going environmental monitoring of Mawson huts and the objects they contain without forgetting the five (5) meters of buffer zone around the huts;
― visits required for management purposes;
– the revision of the management plan once every five years at least, and its updating in case of need;
- consultations with national Antarctic programs operating in the region and those having an interest in the management of historical sites of Antarctica or experience in this area, in order to ensure the effective implementation of the above provisions; and
― the installation of terminals to indicate the demarcation lines of the ZSPA.
______
(1) In the context of this management plan, the term "preservation" means "all processes used to take care of a place in order to preserve its cultural importance". See definition in section 1.4 of The Burra Charter: The Australia ICOMOS Burra Charter, 1999.
4.0 Duration of designation
ZSPA is designated for an indefinite period.
5.0 Area description 5.1 Geographical coordinates,
stubbornness and characteristics of the natural environment
Cape Denison is a 1.5 km wide peninsula that advances to the centre of Commonwealth Bay, a 60 km wide coastline located on George V, Eastern Antarctica. Its topography is defined by a series of four rocky peaks running on a south-south-east axis to north-north-west and three valleys containing ice, snow and ice moraine. The largest of these valleys, which is also the largest in the west, houses the four cabins of the Southern Antarctic expedition. At the western end is Boat Harbour, a 400-metre-long scaffold on the coast.
Map A shows that the main Mawson hut is about 65 metres from the port. The Transit Cabin is located 40 meters northeast of the main hut, the Magnétograph hut is about 310 meters northeast of the main hut and the Absolute Magnetic Cabin is about 275 meters northeast of the main hut.
The ZSPA covers four areas, each of which includes a five-metre cabin and buffer zone calculated from its perimeter. The huts are located at the following points:
― main cabin : 67° 00$DA$DA 31'' south latitude, 142° 39' 39''' east longitude;
― Transit hut : 67° 00' 30'' south latitude, 142° 39' 42''' east longitude;
― Cabin Absolute Magnetic : 67° 00' 23'' south latitude, 142° 39' 48''' east longitude; and
― Magnétograph : 67° 00'21'' south latitude, 142° 39' 37''' east longitude.
Cape Denison is the summer breeding site of the Adélie casks, Wilson's petrels, snow petrels and Antarctic labbes. Several colonies live near the ZSPA. We also saw seals of Weddell, elephants and sea leopards gathering in the area and sea elephants coming to the Denison Cape. There is nothing, however, known about the possible presence of seals within the very limits of the ZSPA.
The only species of flora that seem to be present near the huts are lichens and freshwater algae. Although these species have not yet been studied, a list of lichen species is listed in Appendix A.
It is difficult to access Cape Denison by sea, by land or by air due to the rugged topography and the climate of the area. The range of sea ice and the unknown bathymetry do not allow vessels to approach less than three nautical miles from the coast. It is then possible to get closer by helicopter or small boats, although it is often difficult to do so because of the size of the waves as well as the katabatic winds or the prevailing northwest winds. The accostages are possible at Boat Harbour and north of the Srensen hut (inside the ZGSA n° 3). The helicopter landing area and approach and departure paths are shown on Map C.
On the ground, we can only access the area on foot. With the exception of a small wooden walk near the main hut, there are no roads or other transport infrastructure on the ground. The wooden walk is often covered with snow, which makes it unusable for a few weeks all year round.
The ZSPA is located within the ZGSA of Cape Denison, which contains several other structures dating from this expedition, including topographical markers and mast located at the top of the Anemometer hill, as well as six non-historical structures, including temporary field shelters. The recent structure closest to the ZSPA is the Granholm hut, which is about 160 metres northwest of the main hut. It contains many building materials, land equipment and a limited stock of provisions. Other building materials are stored near the hut. In the east of the Granholm hut is a pile of logs used for the conservation work of the main hut. The logs are stowed to rocks by galvanized cables. Another pile of logs is on rocks about 100 metres southeast of the main hut.
Objects abandoned by the Southern Antarctic expedition are scattered throughout the area. In particular, there is an important cluster just north of the main hut. Given their great heritage value, these objects were included in the ZGSA of Cape Denison and SMH No. 77.
ZSPA No. 3 is inside the ZGSA of Cape Denison. For more details on the ZGSA XXX, please refer to the documentation. Cape Denison is also on the list of historic sites and monuments under the Antarctic Treaty.
6.0 Sitting areas inside the area
There is no other area inside the ZSPA XXX.
7.0 Maps of the area
Map A. ― Management Areas of Cape Denison. This map illustrates the demarcation lines of the ZGSA, the historic site, the visual protection zone, the ZSPA n° XXX and the important topographic characteristics of the area. The enclosure indicates the location of the area relative to the Antarctic continent.
Card specifications :
Projection: UTM zone 54.
Horizontal Datum: WGS84.
Map B. ― Vision protection area of Cap Denison. This map gives the demarcation lines of the visual protection zone and indicates the position of important historical objects, including the four huts of the Australasian Antarctic expedition, the souvenir cross and the Anemometer hill and the location of the claim mast of the site by the BANZARE expedition.
Card specifications :
Projection: UTM zone 54.
Horizontal Datum: WGS84.
Map C. ― Flight trajectories and bird colonies of Cape Denison. This map shows the approach and departure paths and helicopter landing areas, as well as the location of the bird colonies in the vicinity.
Card specifications :
Projection: UTM zone 54.
Horizontal Datum: WGS84.
Annex V to the Antarctic Treaty Protocol on the Protection of the Environment (Protocol of Madrid) prohibits entry into a PSA, except under conditions authorized by a permit. Permits are issued by the competent national authorities and may contain general and specific conditions. National authorities may issue a permit covering several visits during a season. Parties operating in the Commonwealth Bay must consult and consult with non-governmental operators wishing to visit the area to ensure the proper management of the visitor stream.
The general conditions for the issuance of entry permits in the PSA may include:
- activities conducted for the purposes of conservation, inspection, maintenance, research and/or monitoring;
– management activities that comply with or support the management objectives of the ASA; and
– the educational goals and activities, including tourism, that are consistent with the purposes and objectives of this management plan.
Permits are issued for a given period and must be brought with them by visitors in the area. A visit report must be submitted to the authority designated by the permit within three (3) months after the expiry date of that permit.
Once on land, access to the huts and inside them is on foot. Depending on the snow conditions, it is possible to access a short wooden walk near the main cabin and it is necessary to borrow it whenever possible to avoid damaging objects scattered north of the main cabin.
8.1.1 Visitor management Mawson huts can be visited during the day provided that:
― each group is accompanied by a person specializing in the conservation of cultural heritage (the part issuing the permit being the sole judge in the matter), who must remain in the area for the duration of the visit;
– information sessions on this management plan and the values of the PSA are organized prior to the visits and adequate information materials are provided to each visitor to enable him to interpret the site;
– visitors avoid fragile historical objects, such as those scattered just north of the main hut, and other vulnerable areas such as lichen communities;
– visitors do not touch the exterior structure of buildings or any of the objects.
Visitors can enter the main cabin and the Magnétograph cabin provided that:
a person specializing in the conservation of cultural heritage accompanies them at any time;
– no more than four (4) persons, including the guide, are present at the same time in the main cabin, with the number limited to three (3) (including the guide) for the Magnétograph cabin;
- objects, scientific equipment, related conservation management equipment and the interior structure of the building are not affected.
Authorized working groups that undertake conservation work programmes and/or approved archaeological work are exempt from the provisions of this subsection.
Activities related to the conservation work program and inspection, maintenance, research and/or monitoring activities.
Scientific research.
Visits undertaken for educational purposes, including tourism; and
Visits to assess the effectiveness of the plan and management activities.
No new structure and new equipment will be installed in the area except to preserve the values of the Mawson cabins.
Mawson cabins will not be modified and no structure will be installed unless the conservation, research, monitoring or maintenance work referred to above requires it.
Cap Denison is simultaneously designated as a historic site. In accordance with paragraph 4 of Article 8 of Annex V to the Protocol, the historic structures and objects present in Cape Denison (including Mawson Cabins) will not be damaged, removed or destroyed except under an approved archaeological conservation or work program. Historical objects can only be removed from the area to ensure its conservation and/or preservation but only with a permit issued to that end by a national authority.
It is generally preferable to bring the objects back to their place of origin to Cape Denison unless their return may result in further deterioration or deterioration.
It is forbidden to camp inside the area.
The use of Mawson cabins for accommodation purposes is not permitted.
Non-historical infrastructure within the SASA is to be used by Parties engaged in activities in accordance with this management plan, preferably in the development of new infrastructure.
The tents must be erected on the wooden platform adjacent to the Srensen cabin.
No living animal, plant material, micro-organism or land will be deliberately introduced into the area and all reasonable precautions will be taken to avoid accidental introduction.
No poultry and poultry, except sterilized powdered eggs, can be introduced into the area.
No polystyrene packaging can be introduced into the area.
Pesticides and herbicides may not be introduced in the area except for the conservation or preservation of historical structures and objects, which must then be authorized by a permit. They will then be evacuated from the area upon completion of the activity for which the permit was issued.
Storage of fuels, foods or other materials in the area is prohibited except for the compelling requirements of the activity for which the permit was issued.
The use of combustion lamps is strictly prohibited inside the area.
No smoking in the area.
Structures and other historical objects in the area may not be manipulated, moved or removed from the area except for conservation, preservation or protection work or for scientific reasons, but only in accordance with a permit issued by a competent national authority.
It is generally best to bring the objects back to the place from which they were removed to the Denison Cape unless their return may result in new degradations or damages.
Any removal of objects to the Australian national program must be noted so that the archaeological research archives of this program can be modified accordingly.
Materials of human origin that are likely to affect the values of the area and that have not been introduced by the licensee or under another decision may be removed unless their removal may have a higher impact than that of their in situ retention. If material is to be removed from the area, the competent authority must be notified and approved.
All wastes, including human waste, must be removed from the area to the extent possible.
8.9 Measures to ensure that the goals Information, including a video film and brochures, must be provided to tourists and other visitors in the area.
A study must be undertaken after the visits to ensure continuous monitoring of the impacts that visitors may have (the focus is on conservation needs rather than access to the area).
The interpretation of the off-site area that maximizes the benefit of available media, including the Internet.
The development of resources and skills, particularly in the field of excavation of objects removed from the ice, to promote the protection of the values of the area.
Parties shall maintain a record of the activities approved for this ASA and, as part of the annual exchange of information, provide brief descriptions of the activities carried out by persons within their jurisdiction, which must nevertheless be sufficiently detailed to allow an assessment of this management plan. To the extent possible, Parties must file the original or a copy of these documents in public archives (such as the Mawson Cabin Web site, at the following URL: http://www.aad.gov.au/mawsons_huts) to keep up-to-date a survey of visits to the area, which will contribute to and revise this management plan and organize new visits/areas.
10.0 Bibliography Angela Bender, cartographer, Australian Antarctic Division, personal communications. 9 April 2003; 16 April 2003.
Dodge, C.W. (1948). BANZARE ReportsSeries B, vol. VII. British Australia New Zealand Antarctic Expedition.
Foreign ' Commonwealth Office London/British Antarctic Survey (1997). List of Protected Areas in Antarctica. London, Cambridge: Foreign ' Commonwealth Office/BAS: 9 22, 24, 25.
Godden Mackay Logan (2001). Mawson's Huts Historic Site, Cape Denison Commonwealth Bay Antarctica: Conservation Management Plan 2001. Sydney, Godden Mackay Logan: 36, 41-43, 110, 146, 147, notsim.
Hayes, J. Gordon (1928). Antarctica: a treatise on the southern continent. London: The Richards Press Ltd.: 212.
McIntyre, D., and McIntyre, M. (1996). Weddell seal survey in Boat Harbour. In Australian Antarctic Division 1997. Initial Environmental Evaluation : AAP Mawson's Huts Foundation Conservation Program 1997-98 : Attachment D.
Mawson, D. (1996) (reprint). The Home of the Blizzard, Adelaide : Wakefield Press : 53, 54, 62, 68.
Patterson, D. (2003). Mawson's Huts Conservation Expedition 2002: Field Leaders Report.
Professor Rod Seppelt, botanist, Australian Antarctic Division, personal communication, 19 February 2003.
RESPONSE OF FLORE REFERENCE TO CAP DENISON,
COMMONWEALTH BAIE
The following taxons were spotted in Cape Denison by the Australasian Antarctic Shipment of 1911-14 as well as by the British, Australian and New Zealand research expedition in Antarctica (BANZARE) in 1929-31; they were published by Carroll W. Dodge in BANZARE ReportsSeries B, vol. VII, July 1948.
LICHENS
Acids
Lecidea cancriformis Dodge & Baker
Toninia Johnstoni Dodge
Umbilica
Umbilicaria decussata Zahlbr.
Lecanoracées
Rhizoplaca melanophthalma Leuck. " Poelt "
Lecanora expectans Darb.
Pleopsidium chlorophanum (Wahlenb.) Zopf
Parmeliacs
Physcia caesia (Hoffm.) Th. Fr.
Usnaecs
Pseudephebe minuscula (Nyl. ex Arnold) Brodo & D. Hawksw.
Usnea antarctica Rietz
Blasteniacs
Candelariella flava (C.W. Dodge ' Baker) Castello ' Nimis
Xanthoria elegans (Link) Th. Fr.
Xanthoria Mawsoni Dodge
Buelliaceae
Buellia frigida Darb.
BRYOPHYTES
No bryophyte appears to be present at Cape Denison.
There are many non-marine algae, but the census has never been undertaken.
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
You can consult the table in the
JO n° 282 of 04/12/2008 text number 9
Done in Paris, December 1, 2008.
Nicolas Sarkozy
By the President of the Republic:
The Prime Minister,
François Fillon
Minister for Foreign Affairs
and European,
Bernard Kouchner
