ANNEXES

MEDRAP II ACTIVITIES REPORT

by Project coordinator

I. INTRODUCTION

MEDRAP Project constituted a link of exchange of knowledge and transfer of technologies among the north and the south of the Mediterranean. During its first phase, many activities aiming especially at vulgarizing aquaculture and elaborating pilot projects at different phases of conception, of feasibility as well as socio-economic studies at the national and the regional levels, were realised.

The basic of MEDRAP second phase is to help countries in the region become self-supporting in their ability to develop and manage human resources for aquaculture support, in their capability for the supply of essential physical input for aquaculture and in their ability to supply good fish products to the consumer.

To achieve its major goal, MEDRAP II was called to establish networks to ensure the continuity of the cooperation and to favour the exchange of information among the Mediterranean countries. Thus, four networks have been established; “The Mediterranean (SIPAM)”, “The Technology of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (TECAM)”, “The Socio-Economic and Legal Aspects of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (SELAM)”, and “The Environment and Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (EAM)”.

The identification of the priorities of interest and the coordinating mechanisms for the implementation of these networks were subjects of meetings held in 1993. In this respect, GFCM has been identified to assume the overall coordination of the Networks and to directly manage the SIPAM. CIHEAM was selected to carry out the TECAM and SELAM future activities and MAP-PAP/RAC to coordinate the EAM activities.

II. REVIEW OF 1994 NETWORKS' ACTIVITIES

The 1994 activities constituted the operational phase of the Networks and thus marked their effective start. Indeed, a progressive transfer of responsibilities have smoothly involved the Coordinating Institutions in the implementation of their respective Networks' activities.

The following report on MEDRAP II activities will briefly introduce the main topics dealt with during 1994 and are presented under each network. Additional information might be presented by the respective Coordinators.

1. SIPAM Activities

1.1 Since the SIPAM Network Document was approved by the Steering Committee of Byblos, the preliminary survey of countries involved in the first phase was the first priority to face.

The SIPAM Data Manager visited then all the countries involved in the experimental phase in order to prepare the launching of the Network in the best conditions: Portugal (Dec. 93), Greece, Cyprus, Turkey (Feb. 94), France (March 94), Egypt (April 94) and Croatia (Oct. 94).

In the meantime, a Tunisian Programmer joined the SIPAM in January 1994 to allow the preparation of databases on the seven priority topics selected by MEDRAP countries: Production, Research and Development Centers, research programmes, studied species, experts, bibliography, suppliers laws and regulations.

1.2 A working group on the System Design met on April 19–21 in Rome. It allowed to precisely define all the type of data to be collected and the organisation of the Network. In order to facilitate data collection in each country and to standardise information entry, 20 tables were prepared.

Five files had been studied, discussed and adopted. Six additional databases (species, experts, bibliography, legislation, planning and health control) will be provided by FAO and two other databases (documentation, laws and regulations) by MEDRAP.

It was proposed to include the Aquaculture Planning Simulator (APS), an analytic module, Development strategy for the second year and related budget were elaborated.

The general overview of aquaculture status in the pilot countries demonstrated the urgent need to proceed to SIPAM implementation. The representatives have already undertaken actions to prepare the stat-up of the Network: inventory of existing databases on Aquaculture, collection of data related to the seven priority topics, purchase of equipment, contact with private sector, etc…

1.3 According to the recommendations of the meeting held in Rome, the software had been finalised by the SIPAM Team in Tunis with the assistance of FAO system expert who visited the Regional Center in July. A copy of the software was then sent to each country in August. The user guide was also prepared with precise definitions of the 147 references proposed in the various tables available when data entry. This guide was sent to countries on September.

SIPAM National counterparts were regularly contacted by Regional Center to check the proper use of the software.

From mid-October to mid-November, the collected national data were processed and entered in the regional module. A detailed study of remarks and suggestions from various countries let to improve the software through more than 50 modifications.

1.4 The second meeting of SIPAM Network, held in Nantes on November 1994, gave the opportunity to confirm the involvement of the participating countries in the network as they may, now, evaluate the practical efficiency and interest of the Network. The prototype was discussed and tested again by the Members. The existing databases were consolidated and finalised. Additional databases were proposed and will be elaborated for the next working group meeting.

Two meetings were proposed to be held in 1995:

-   A workshop on data collection methodology (April, Portugal/Spain)

-   A working group meeting on software evolution and improvement (June,Greece/Italy).

The participants expressed their satisfaction towards the effective participation of Greece in the SIPAM activities and the future adherence of Spain to the Network.

2. TECAM Activities

As a follow up to the recommendations of the MEDRAP II Steering Committee held in Byblos on November 1993, four meetings were held in Malta, in Cyprus, Syria, Tunisia-Libya and in Saragossa.

2.1 In Malta (February 22–23), the objective of the meeting was to elaborate realistic proposals of activities on Pathology and Nutrition. All experts were invited to focus on the conception and the elaboration of collaborative research (diagnosis/analytical works, advanced training courses, workshops, guidelines, etc.) that will favour the efficient functioning of the network. It was agreed that a limited number of top priority topics be established in order to keep within a moderately ambitious and realistic set of objectives. This approach is more likely to lead to the success of the Network.

The proposals of activities are given in the final report.

2.2 In Cyprus (April 13–15), the group of experts submitted proposals of Activities on Diversification of Aquaculture production. It was stressed to update and disseminate available information on alternative and preferred options for the reproduction and rearing species of high value and for the processing of products; this might be achieved by increasing the understanding of the markets and by exchanging materials and experts through the operation of joint research programmes and also, by publishing specific information through the SIPAM Newsletter.

The meeting elaborated proposals taking into consideration the conclusions reached by the meeting on Diversification held in July 1991 in Malta. These proposals are reflected in the final report of the working group meeting.

2.3 The third meeting under TECAM Network programme was held in Syria (May 2–4). The meeting reported on fresh water culture and its contribution to local economies. The experts mentioned that there is a lack of human resources skills in farm operations and recommended to strengthen national expertise by training sessions, exchange information between will interested institutions and disseminating information through SIPAM Newsletter and other publication, improving the managerial skills of the fresh water fish producers, establishing databank, identifying ways in which value might be added to the output of the fresh water aquaculture sector so that socio-economic benefits might be improved and by developing undergraduate degree programme to graduate specialists in appropriate aspects of aquaculture.

Conduct of joint research programmes, improvement of technologies and dissemination of information were the major field of interest. The proposed activities are reflected in the relevant final report.

2.4 A Mediterranean Artemia Training course and site survey was held in Tunisia and Libya(May 25–30). The objectives of this activity was to update participants with the biology, ecology and production potential of Artemia in and outside the Mediterranean Basin. Participants would be urged to learn how to explore the potential of Artemia developments in their own country and to set up integrated systems for commercial production of salt, Artemia, fish and shrimp. The study tour which was of a big interest allowed the participants to have field observations and to learn about the ecological characteristics of Artemia in their natural biotopes either in Tunisia when visiting the saltworks of Megrine (north part) of Sahline (Central part) and of Sfax (south part) or in Libya when visiting the salt lakes of Abi Kamech.

Training component, research programmes and exchange of information mainly through SIPAM Network were the major conclusions and recommendations of this activity. Further details are reflected in the final report.

2.5 In Saragossa (June 29–30), two working group meetings were held to elaborate the 1995 TECAM and SELAM programme of activities and onwards.

The proposals of TECAM Programme for 1995 were reviewed and discussed based on the previous meetings conclusions held respectively in Malta and Cyprus. The designation of two Spanish scientific coordinators for each Network, by CIHEAM, may involve Spain in the future activities of both networks.

It was highlighted that activities should be of common concern dealing essentially with research and advanced trainings.

The following conclusions were sorted out:

-   preparation of activities is needed in order to have a well defined programme for discussion and publication during and after the seminars proceedings using the CIHEAM review publication,

-   the collation of information related to the markets and to the products quality criteria are of a big interest to the private sector which when involved may increase the attract of the EC for supporting such specific activities,

-   MEDRAP will continue to ensure the coordination of TECAM and SELAM activities during the first period (phase 1) of 1995;

-   CIHEAM will take in charge the coordination of TECAM and SELAM activities during the second period (phase 2) of 1995;

-   CIHEAM will carry out investigation in order to prepare specific projects for EC to finance the activities proposed when dealing with restricted areas.

The proposals of activities of both networks are reflected in the final report.

3. SELAM Activities

Two meetings took place in the framework of SELAM.

3.1 In Saragossa, on June 1994, the group elaborated proposals of activities, based on previous conclusions of meetings organised by MEDRAP namely on Aquaculture and Environment (Bordeaux, March 92), Quality Control, Processing and Marketing of Aquaculture Products (Sfax, April 92), Planification of Aquaculture Products (Algiers, June 92), Mollusc Culture (Nantes/Sete, June 92), Production (Nador, September 92), etc.

It was decided to implement two activities in 1995:

-   A workshop on Economics on February 95,

-   A seminar on Marketing on May 95.

It was recommended to bold a preparatory meeting related to these mentioned activities.

3.2 The working groups meeting for the preparation of two seminars (Economics and Marketing) was organised at the FAO Headquarters on November 17–18, 1994.

Two scientific coordinators were designated for the planned seminars, to act in concert with MEDRAP Regional Center and CIHEAM.

The preliminary agendas for each seminar were elaborated including the relevant themes to be developed, the experts and lecturers to be invited. The number of participants was fixed and the corresponding budget allocations were mentioned. The duration of each seminar was fixed to two days and a half with possible extension to an extra day for eventual organisation of study tours. As to the organisational aspects, ICRAM and Greece Representatives formulated the possibility of hosting and contributing to the seminar on Marketing.

The main activity guidelines for SELAM Network were retained as follows:

-   Exchange of experts and development of human resource potentiality on socio-economic and legal aspects through bilateral and multilateral cooperation at regional level.

-   Exchange of experts and trainings on socio-economic and legal aspects at international level.

-   The objectives and activities listed in the SELAM Network Document, adopted by the Steering Committee, were retained as a basic support tot he development and the promotion of aquaculture in the Mediterranean.

4. EAM Activities

In accordance with the MEDRAP II 1994 programme of activities, two meetings were organised by the Project and two others by MAP-PAP/RAC.

4.1 A workshop on intensive farming outfalls on the coastal ecosystem was held in Tunisia (Djerba, April 12–14). The concept of EAM Network was introduced, based on the priority areas defined in previous meetings. One of the implementation of focused activities selected from the priority areas defined in previous meetings. One of the prioritised activities is related to intensive farming outfalls and their interaction with the recipient environment. Technical presentations brought the light on status of coastal finfish aquaculture in the Mediterranean, potential impacts, qualification of nutrients, technical issues, and the environmental management options.

The conclusions and recommendations are reflected in the final report.

4.2 The second activity organised by MEDRAP in the framework of EAM Network, is the lagoon management, held in Morocco (Nador, July 5–7). The objective of the working group meeting is the establishment of a cooperation programme for the development of models suitable for the lagoon management and their use for aquaculture.

Some communications and case studies were presented especially on lagoon ecosystem organisation and functioning in France, hydrodynamic and water quality models used in Tunis, the application of GIS and remote sensing in aquaculture (case of Nador Lagoon) and a case study on lagoon exploitation for aquaculture in the south of Italy.

In the conclusion a cooperation programme reflecting the objective of the working group was prepared with a time table of realisation.

It is worth to mention that the meeting took place in a private company MAROST, which is very involved in the Project's activities. The Moroccan authorities have provided all the required facilities and borne the accommodation fees of all the delegates.

4.3 The third activity under EAM Network, organised by MAP-MAP/RAC in collaboration with IFREMER, was a workshop on environmental aspects of shellfish culture in the Mediterranean with special reference to monitoring, held in Croatia (Dubrovnik, July 19–22).

The participants of the workshop recognised the need for securing both clean rearing environments and the acceptable product quality for the market. Strict standards requiring rigorous control of the rearing environments and product quality are decisive for the development of the shellfish culture industry, and, therefore monitoring is a crucial phase in the production cycle and a prerequisite for product marketing. To meet the relevant international requirements, such as the EU ones, it is necessary to have a standard set of monitoring parameters, as well as uniform sampling and analytic methodology, data processing and interpretation, both for the rearing environments and the quality products.

The workshop recognised also the increase of negative effects of harmful phytoplankton species and the need for relevant scientific research, in particular of life cycles of phytoplankton species, origin of toxicity and introduction of the diseases by non-indigenous species.

The need was also recognised for the improvement of management of shellfish culture areas, with particular reference to the assessment of the carrying capacity, in order to maintain a high standard quality. In this respect, estimation of the cultivated biomass, and assessment of the growth and mortality rates and of the annual production are necessary prerequisites.

The workshop technical presentations and recommendations are reflected in the final report.

4.4 The last activity under EAM is a working group meeting on the Selection and Protection of the site suitable for aquaculture, held in Croatia (Split, October 24–27). As MEDRAP II was not present and that no documentation was forwarded on the meeting, the Coordinator of EAM Network may give further details on this activity.

III. MEMBERS' CONTRIBUTIONS TO MEDRAP 1994 ACTIVITIES:

It is most encouraging to notice that some Members have already undertaken actions to secure financial contributions to the Project's 1994 activities. To a certain extent, Malta, Cyprus, Morocco and France have supported the organisation of the meetings held in their respective countries.

The Coordinating Institutions have also shows interest to the Networks operations and brought their contributions to the organisation of the activities. In order to secure the sustainability of the networks, CIHEAM and MAP-PAP/RAC supported the accommodation fees of the invited delegates and provided the necessary facilities for the meetings.

IV. PROJECT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Given that this is probably the last Steering Committee meeting, I would like to make a tentative diagnosis on the Project's achievements and future perspectives.

1. Achievements of objectives, outputs and activities against Project Document:

As the Project aimed to establish a sustainable inter-regional mechanism for coordination of aquaculture development among and for the countries of both regions (Arab States and Europe) though the development of networks, the enhancement of countries' capabilities in the management of human resources and in their technical capabilities for the support of aquaculture development were essential.

In this respect, the Project has been since 1990 carrying out activities, particularly aimed at the establishment of networks.

As a primary action toward this end, MEDRAP II has defined regional and sub-regional priorities in information, research and training and has established the following priority programme areas:

-   Information

-   Technology of Aquaculture

-   Socio-Economic and Legal Aspects of Aquaculture

-   Environment and Aquaculture

a) Information:

The System of Information for the Promotion of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean “SIPAM” was given high priority by all member countries. It is proposed to produce useful and usable information through organised methods of selecting, storing, retrieving and reporting of data available from national, regional and international sources.

The objective of SIPAM is to provide4 the MEDRAP Project, and though it, the countries adhering to the Project, with an instrument and a methodology for rapid and targeted access to data and information of different types and from different sectors and sources. Moreover, the establishment of the SIPAM will facilitate the exchange of information to the beneficiaries (production, markets, regulations, technology, etc.) with a view to increase their production, improve their technology, the quality of the products and their marketing.

b) Technology of Aquaculture:

As Research and Training are complementary and constitute vital components of each Network, it was recommended to amend the initial options related to the programmed areas of interest and it was decided that no separate networks on Research or Training were necessary.

The Network on Technology of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean “TECAM” to promote mainly the Research and Training activities related to Aquaculture technology was established.

The major output of TECAM network is the promotion of adapted technologies for fry production, aquaculture engineering, fish food technology, feeding technics, pathology, fish farm management and the set up of guidelines and data base on products' specifications, quality control, fish pathology (diagnosis technics, disease control) farm management etc. in cooperation with SIPAM.

c) Socio-Economic and Legal Aspects of Aquaculture:

The Socio-Economic and Legal Aspects of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean “SELAM” to develop activities on the economic, marketing, financial and planning aspects, was established. The expected outputs of the SELAM Network are:

-   The establishment of an operational and permanent network based on scientific and financial contribution of the participants to common golas;

-   The set up of market information systems to favour aquaculture products' outlets;

-   Comparative analysis of socio-economic and legal framework and the set up of data base for the promotion of aquaculture within the development of national plants.

The main identified priorities for the first phase Network's activities are:

-   Marketing

-   Integration of aquaculture in the development plans

-   Legislation

d) Environment and Aquaculture:

It has been recognised that intensive cultures are capable to endanger the environment and production. Aquaculture requires specific environmental conditions since any intensive type of production is strongly dependant on water quality and on accurate prediction of the ecosystem carrying capacity. Site selection, monitoring and protection of the ecosystem as well as the harmonisation of aquaculture with dominant economic activities in the area, such as heavy industries, tourism, agriculture, etc. are imperative. In this context of interactions between aquaculture and environment, the EAM Network will deal with all these relevant aspects.

2. Impact assessment on the Member Countries:

The project's goal have been well perceived. The Member Countries' awareness of their major preoccupations related to Aquaculture promotion is evident. Upon request of MEDRAP, the constitution of National Committees for Aquaculture Development (NCDA) helped the involvement of the concerned parties to develop the sector.

The need to train technical staff, to promote collaborative research actions, to favour the transfer of know-how was expressed at several occasions, thus it become necessary for MEDRAP to meet their requirements.

The Project has, indeed, organised all its scheduled activities and at least one activity in almost each member country. The Members spared no effort in contributing to the organisation and to the success of the activities to which their representatives have usually participated. The experts and consultants were also present to contribute and to favour the exchange of technologies and information.

The involvement of expatriates from various international institutions such as Stirling University, Ghent University, Szarvas Institute, etc., in the Project's activities gave the benefit of introducing several updated technologies and transferring the know-how to national experts.

Various notes received from some Member Countries on the impact assessment proved that MEDRAP has contributed to the exchange of information, has enhanced the capacities of experts and has catalysed bilateral cooperations and assistance to countries not advanced in aquaculture.

At the regional level, the establishment of cooperative networks, the interest and contribution of all the members are the most significant sign of MEDRAP II impact. Now that MEDRAP II activities are organised through networking, there would be opportunities to put in place and develop appropriate national aquaculture strategies so that further development can be assessed.

V. FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

It is essential, at this turning point to optimistically foresee the Post-MEDRAP phase.

The need to ensure the permanence of actiivities for the rational sustainable development of aquaculture in te Mediterranean should be a valid concern of all the participating countries. Towards this end, maximum efforts should be deployed at the national level.

Additional resources from the Members should be mobilised to secure the sustainability of the Networks. Such contribution will further involve the countries whose resources are higher and will give them more responsibilities towards the development of aquaculture in the Mediterranean South Region.

It is also important to involve the national experts in the Networks' activities to contribute to the self-sufficiency phase in terms of management of human resources.

Before concluding, I would like to point out that MEDRAP has elaborated reports on each activity (40 reports). They were distributed to all the national coordinators, FAO, the Coordinating Institutions, etc. These documents were not edited at a large scal3e, specially at the natinal levels. Therefore, I would propose their standardised edition and the translation into arabic of some reports to ensure a larger dissemination of the MEDRAP activities and results.

As far as the European Community is concerned by the promotion of aquaculture and the development of the North-South relations, I still believe that EC should be approached again to support the Networks' activities. The Coordinating Institutions and the Members may find the way to involve the European Community in the Networks' operations.

In addition, I believe that UNDP may be a valuable donor to the Post-MEDRAP phase.

VI. CONCLUSION

Finally, I would like to conclude by paying a tribute UNDP and FAO for their paramount support and assistance to MEDRAP.

I would also pay a tribute to the General Fisheries Council for the Mediterranean (GFCM) for having accepted to assume the overall coordination of the Networks and to directly manage the SIPAM, the Center International des Hautes Etudes Agronomiques en Mediterranee (CIHEAM) to coordinate the TECAM and SELAM activities, the Mediterranean Action Plan - Priority Action Plan / Regional Activity Center (MAP-PAP/RAC) to carry out the EAM activities and the Tunisian Government for having hosted MEDRAP both phases and accepted to host the SIPAM Network and to provide its Regional Center with all the necessary facilities.

Thanks are addressed to all the Sub-Regional and National Coordinators and the Representatives of FAO and UNDP in all the Member Countries for all kind of assistance they provided the project during the implementation of its activities.

I would like to pay a tribute to the Turkish Authorities for their hospitality and contribution to the organisation of this session.

SIPAM OUTLOOK

The purpose of this Note (1) is to report on the status of the SIPAM Project, which is now entering its implementation phase. This notice will be performed by further communications, corresponding to the significant milestones in the work schedule, so that all interested parties will have an opportunity to follow the progress of SIPAM, and also, to the extent each considers opportune, to contribute to the efforts for its development.

(1) Extract from: S. Coppola, SIPAN - System Design Field Document MEDRAP II/SIPAN/02. Rome, Dec 1992

1. BACKGROUND

The Mediterranean countries are engaged in an accelerated process of aquaculture development which answers a triple need: the availability for quality aquatic products for a very demanding regional market, the valorisation of certain coastal areas unusable for other activities, and the creating of permanent employment. This development is manifested by increased investments in countries of the south Mediterranean like those of the north, and also by the increase in production which shows a continuous ascending curve for all products.

Finance by UNDP with FAO as executing agency, MEDRAP has strived to assemble the protagonists of aquaculture research and development in the Mediterranean basin within a flexible structure of advice, training and technical assistance. Through the MEDRAP, participating countries have demonstrated their interest in developing a network of data/information exchange between researchers, decision makers, producers and economists, and therefore the need to set up an information system respondent to the needs of these protagonists.

2. OBJECTIVE

The objective is the establishment of a reliable and permanent regional aquaculture information system to facilitate the exchange of information regarding all domains of interest to etc.) with a view to increasing production and improving technology, the quality of the products and their marketing.

Moreover, it was agreed to start the system implementation process with the production of a “prototype” to be developed jointly with the active participation of eight countries of the Region - Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Portugal, Tunisia and Turkey. These countries were selected at their own request and on the basis of the availability and accessibility of suitable national data and of their specific competence. A complementary budget, secured y the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and IFREMER, the provision of a programmer from the Tunisian government, permitted the project to start on 11 October 1993 under the direct techanical expertise of FAO Headquarters and logistic, human and financial support by MEDRAP. It is foreseen that the project will be undertaken in three phases of one year each. The coordination, guaranteed by MEDRAP until 1995, will be taken over by the GFCM with its secretariat based in Rome.

The SIPAM Project has been designed starting from the methodology conceived and tested under the framework of another regional project executed by FAO in Latin America (AQUILLA II).

3. OVERVIEW OF SIPAM BASIC FEATURES

-   Definition: SIPAM is a tool conceived to allow the management, in predefined sub-systems, of data and information of a different nature (through all pertaining to the aquaculture sector) retrieved from various national, regional and global sources.

-   Architecture: in order to rationalise SIPAM development and implementation, to enhance its possibility of success, and to increase its use and interest by all the concerned parties, the system will be composed of Five substantial and two accessory sub-systems, i.e.:

The National Sub-System, will provide SIPAM with direct access to national databases. However, this option will be available only for those countries where a national information system exists and the national coordination staff are able to develop the appropriate communication protocols. Alternatively, this module will contain the same software as the Regional Module managing data at a lower level of aggregation and having all the typical functions of data entry; This option National Write read Use DB (NWRUDB) is reserved for the country's own use and management, it will reside only in the National Module of SIPAM given to the countries. For the prototype development, it will be similar to the regional one assisted, to expand the data coverage to be closer to their realities and at the same time be colloquial/compatible/comparable with SIPAM. However, it is worth noting that this will be entirely at the choice of the countries.

The Regional Sub-System is a corporate system which summarises the information supplied by countries according to a given methodology. It is a collection of all the selected Data Bases, customised to allow all the typical retrieval functions: Select, Search, Print, Save, Export, Configure. Two types of system are foreseen: (i) regional read Only Use (RROU). This version will reside in the Regional Module of SIPAM distributed to the countries. Its content will be an aggregated Data Base made up from all the National ones that are received in SIPAM on time; It will contain all the retrieval/output functions of the application. It does not contain the Data Entry Procedures. (ii) Regional Write Read Use (RWRUDB). This version will reside in the Regional Module of SIPAM installed at SIPAM Headquarters and at FAO Rome. It is very similar to the previous one (RROU) but will contain all the functions available, including Data Entry. The Data Uploading/Downloading and Data Security functions will be performed under a different system segment.

The FAO sub-System will contain some of the officially published software and data bases obtainable from FAO HQs and relevant to SIPAM. Most of them are part of the FAO Computerised Information Series.

The Extended Module Will contain an abstract prepared by SIPAM of information collected through the linkage with world-wide commercial and non-commercial networks. As far as networking with remote sources is concerned, this task is foreseen in the second phase and finalised in the third. Also, SIPAM will contain access and authorisation to redistributed data.

The Analytical Module will contain various programs for the analysis of the data/information processed through SIPAM or gathered from other sources specifically obtained or developed to assist in the technical and financial management of aquaculture production project.

The Data Processing Module will enable the user to process and critically analyse the information retrieved through SIPAM. In fact, one of the characteristics of the system is that it will not be dependent upon pre-determined models; This Module will therefore contain all the commercial software which the user might need to carry out the analytical studies (word processor, spreadsheet, DBMS, project management tool, graphics, statistical package, etc.).

The System Configuration Module will assist in configuring SIPAM according to the different hardware/software platforms where it is installed. It will also contain and manage the overall codification system based on prefixed Reference File System.

Each of the data bases contain the following basic functions:

The data bases included in the Prototype are the following:

-   Dissemination: it has to be highlighted that all countries adhering to SIPAM, regardless of whether they are data suppliers or just information recipients, will be provided with the same tools.

-   Regional standardisation: in order to facilitate exchange of data within and between countries, the Regional sub-system, in addition to the automatic data transfer from national databanks to SIPAM, will provided the data entry and management procedures for each of the applications data bases. These data bases will be structured according to a standardised regional format. For each data base, the characteristics, definition, units, directories, etc. will be documented.

-   Country participation: it must be strongly emphasized that SIPAM will be developed with the essential and direct contribution of national staff. This will produce a transfer of know-how from FAO to the participants and promote circulation of information and familiarisation at a regional level.

4. PRESENT STATUS

The system development activities were initiated under the coordination of FAO HQs (FIRM), both in Rome, in Tunis and in the other participating countries. In accordance with the development plan, the SIPAM Team in Tunis developed all the established data bases in constant dialogue with the national coordinators of the other countries. Once completed the draft prototype was sent to all the countries for evaluation and revision and for data entry.

During the first week of December 1994, at the seminar organised in Nantes (France) the prototype was them collegially evaluated and technically criticised by all the participants, and a final version defined and approved. This version of the prototype will be sent to all countries participating at this stage for the complete data entry, and also used for demonstration, training and as a pilot study to access the second phase.

The overall system design documentation and the final prototype will be delivered to all interested parties, presumably by April, 1995.

5. SIPAM DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

Phase 1. In the first phase several activities were undertaken which produced a prototype in DOS (TM), with data base formats in. DBF related to rigid reference archives, developed in CLIPPER 5.2 (TM) and using an advanced menu architecture developed in Menu Works (TM).

The prototype, once completed, will contain a series of subsystems with different applications, both of the data base and of the information, research and management, etc., in order to have everything required on the same work station.

Phase 2. The second phase is characterised by five independent and parallel activities which at the end should originate a single product.

The prototype developed during the first phase, from now on called ‘Muletto’ (little mule) will be the starting point for this phase.

Phase 3. In this phase, the final configuration of SIPAM will be decided, Activity 5 of Phase 2 will be institutionalised.

6. OTHER

It is interesting to underline that SIPAM was designed and is being realised with a futuristic view of a world network for aquaculture in order to allow “twin” systems operating in different nations and regions to “converse” with each other.

From the point of view of investment of human and technological resources assigned to this Project and characterised by its unique approach, it should be emphasised that it is a low-cost financial project with a high level of coordination and backstopping.

PROGRESS REPORT
ON THE EAM NETWORK ACTIVITIES IN 1994

by

Ivan Katavic, EAM Network Coordinator

1. Background

1.1. Since the beginning of the Mediterranean Action Plan of UNEP (MAP), aquaculture has been one of its priority fields of activity. MAP has entrusted its implementation to its Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Center (PAP/RAC).

1.2 In the period 1984–1988, PAP was implementing, in cooperation with FAO and the UNDP-sponsored Mediterranean Regional Aquaculture Project (MEDRAP I), a programme dealing with the environmental aspects of aquaculture management in the Mediterranean. MEDRAP I was at that time focusing on the technological aspects with a strong training component. The final output of PAP aquaculture programme was the proposal of a cooperative project for environmentally sound aquaculture management in the region. As the project failed to be launched due to shortage of fund, the PAP action in the field of aquaculture was temporarily discontinued in 1989.

1.3. Since 1990, MEDRAP II carries out activities aimed to establish regional networking structures for coordination and cooperation of aquaculture development efforts in the Mediterranean region.

1.4. To ensure a follow up after MEDRAP II has ceased to operate (in early 1995), the establishment of the specific networks in the field of aquaculture have been envisaged. Four networks have been identified among MEDRAP activities:

-   The TEChnology of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (TECAM);

-   The Socio-Economic and legal aspects of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (SELAM);

-   The system of Information for the Promotion of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (SIPAM);

-   The Environment and Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (EAM).

1.4. The MEDRAP II meeting in Algiers (June 1992) proposed the use of existing networking institutions to maintain cooperation of Mediterranean countries in the field of aquaculture.

1.5. Appreciating the results of PAP and its previous cooperation, FAO and MEDRAP II proposed to PAP/RAC at the end of 1992 to take the coordination of the Network on Environmental Aspects of Aquaculture Management in the Mediterranean (EAM).

1.6. A Seminar on the establishment of the EAM network (Athens, June 1993) accepted PAP/RAC as the future responsible institution for the organisation and coordination of the network.

1.7. Responding to the proposal of FAO and MEDRAP II, PAP signed, with the approval of FAO and GFCM, an agreement with MEDRAP II on the establishment and implementation of the EAM Network. The meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona convention held in Antalya (November 1993) approved for PAP/RAC to develop, together with MEDRAP II, the EAM Network. The PAP-related part of the EAM programme in the 1994 – 1995 biennium is as follows:

• Ecologically Sound Integrated Management of Shellfish Culture - Monitoring Network, and

• Selection and Protection of Sites Suitable for Aquaculture.

MEDRAP II is entrusted with the activities under the following topics:

• Intensive Fish Farming Outfalls on the Coastal Ecosystem,

• Lagoon Management.

1.8. In the meantime, PAP/RAC has established cooperation with IFREMER (Institut Français de Recherche pour l'Exploitation de la Mer), and it has been agreed that IFREMER, as a line institution, host the activities related to environmental Aspects of Shellfish Culture in the Mediterranean. In consequence, the two institutions have set the objectives and drafted the programme of the workshop on that topic.

1.9. The Greek Institute of Marine Biology of Crete (IMBC) will be following the example of IFREMER in joining the network by hosting the activities related to Selection and Protection of Sites Suitable for Aquaculture, and thus contributing to the network success and continuity.

2. Scope of the EAM Network:

Within the scope of the EAM network it is envisaged that EAM will contribute to the protection and preservation of coastal environment, through specific procedures of environmentally sound aquaculture management in the region.

3. The 1994 Workplan:

The initial phase of the EAM network in the 1994–95 year period is based on the implementation of sharply focused activities selected from the priority areas defined in previous MEDRAP-PAP/RAC surveys.

In accordance to the 1994 workplan, activities under the following topics were completed:

• Workshop on Intensive Farming Outfalls on the Coastal Ecosystem, Jerba, Tunisia, 12–14 April 1994.

• Working Group Meeting on the Development of Lagoon Management Methodology, Nador, Morocco, 5–7 July 1994.

• workshop on the Ecologically Sound Integrated Management of Mollusc Culture - Monitoring network, Dubrovnik, Croatia, 19–22 July 1994.

• Working Group Meeting on the Selection and Protection of the Site Suitable for Aquaculture, Split, Croatia, 24–27 October 1994.

4. Perspectives:,

During this initial phase, the network is expected to grow into a permanent and self-sufficient regional mechanism which would complement rather than substitute the national programme activities. Being actions oriented, it is hoped that the EAM network will be able to mobilise the national capabilities and build up a powerful regional initiative with better chances of success than any individual efforts.

Since the programme of EAM activities has been structured so as to take into account ongoing or planned national projects, it is to be hoped that this will be reason enough for regional institutions and experts to join the Network. There will be a need in a very near future to develop mechanisms linking national activities to the permanent regional networking activities.

5. Financial implications:

MAP-PAP/RAC, as the EAM network center is mobilising its financial resources to cover the running costs by providing coordination, technical expertise and support personnel, its facilities, material and supplies. Furthermore, the network center is covering the costs of preparation, reproduction and dissemination of documents, as well as a part of costs of participation of individuals from developing countries, MAP-PAP/RAC is also covering travel expenses incurred by the EAM network staff for purposes related to EAM activities.

At the same time, MEDRAP II, through its lifetime, will be also providing coordination and covering the running costs for its part of activities.

However, MAP-PAP/RAC and MEDRAP II have managed to secure only limited funds for the biennial period. It is obvious that financing of the networks' operations is going to be main obstacle. So, effort should be directed towards development of both national and institutional cooperation within the Mediterranean countries based on the networking activities identified. Funding of the EAM activities on a long-term basis will rely on the support of the participating institutions and/or countries.

TENTATIVE PROGRAMME OF EAM ACTIVITIES IN 1995 (JAN. JUNE)*

* This workplan is subject to changes pending the outcome of MEDRAP II Steering Committee Meeting and PAP - MEDRAP II statement.

Tex. (285.58) 43 499 (PAP/RAC) or 355 688 (Institute)
Fax (385.58) 361 677 (PAP/RAC) or 46 593 (Institute)