PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
The Hula Lake and swamp were drained in the 1950s as a public health measure to contain malaria. This resulted in the loss of a diverse ecosystem that supported many species, and in particular freshwater flora and migratory birds. It also led to soil erosion and threatened the quality of the water from Lake Kinneret, the largest single source of drinking water in the country. The Hula Lake has since been re-flooded, providing the opportunity to restore some of the wetland features. The wetlands’ rehabilitation would involve the restoration and conservation of re-flooded area, and the re-introduction of characteristic endemic plant and animal species.
OBJECTIVES
The project had the following objectives: 1. The reintroduction of lost animal and plant species, such as the Persian fallow deer, and the recreation of destroyed habitats; 2. The protection of species and sites from intrusive plants and harmful rodents; 3. The management of the vegetation for habitat diversity by the introduction of water buffalo grazing in selected areas and through controlled mowing; 4. Creation of specific niche habitats for animals and plant species: establishment of shading trees for animal shelter and creation of a habitat for common tern nesting; 5. Monitoring the ecosystem to determine the success or failure of restoration and conservation measures; and 6. Education.
RESULTS
The project has successfully carried out a wide range of activities that contribute to the rehabilitation of the Hula wetlands. The project successfully reintroduced several animal and plant species. These include: · Persian Fallow Deer (Dama dama Mesopotamia); · White Tailed Eagles (Haliaeetus albicilia); · Eight indigenous plant species; and · A herd of locally adapted cattle (Baladi). The carrying capacity of half-dried areas and the effect of grazing on the vegetation in moist habitats were studied, and a grazing trial with donkeys was carried out. The results indicated that heavy continuous grazing induced an open, vigorous pasture. The management of vegetation for habitat diversity was therefore achieved through the introduction of grazing species, including the Persian Fallow Deer and Baladi cattle. The Baladi cattle are a locally adapted species (only recently wiped-out), able to graze on poor pasture. A forestation project was carried out in two areas in order to provide shade and shelter for animals and birds. Other types of habitat restoration included the creation of artificial islands and exposed soil surfaces for common tern (Sterna hirundo) nesting. An additional strand of project activities has focused on collaborative work with farmers. This has been central to the protection of several bird species, including the collared pratincole, cranes and pelicans. For example, the replacement of mechanical weed control with methods has resulted in a more friendly environment for the collared pratincole (Glareola pratincola). In order to record and assess the impact of the reflooding and subsequent management on bird populations, the project has carried out a number of monitoring activities, including species habitat, number of specimens, nesting data, response to management practices, etc. The project also produced a vegetation map of the newly flooded Lake Agmon on an annual basis. These monitoring activities have proved invaluable in allowing the project to carry out preventative measures and – for example – effective pest control. Results of the project’s monitoring activities showed that the reintroduced species were well established and that bird numbers had already increased before the end of the LIFE funding. For example, following the work with farmers, 50 breeding pairs of collared pratincole were observed at the project site and successful nesting began around the lake. The common tern was using the artificial islands for winter resting (although not yet for nesting). A small breeding herd of Persian deer was established, and the Baladi cattle had survived well without additional feed. In addition, of 12 pairs of white-tailed eagles released, at least one was nesting in the area. The wider Hula project (of which the LIFE project was one component) won the Beautiful Israel Prize in 2002. The Prize is awarded to an organisation (or in this case, a project) that has contributed significantly to the quality of the environment in Israel.