The project
Tartanet is large-scale, nation-wide initiative for the conservation of the common
sea turtle Caretta caretta in the Mediterranean sea. Run under the European Commission
Life Natura programme, it is led by CTS Ambiente and involves 31 different partners.
Its main objective is to create a network of researchers and those involved in the
study and conservation of this internationally protected species. Five new sea turtle
rehabilitation centres will open and join the network of the ones already active.
A nation-wide data bank in now working; a 24-hour 'turtle emergency response' centre,
where sightings of stranded or injured turtles can be reported, has been activated
jointly with Europ Assistance (toll-free number 800-904841). Guidelines will also
be proposed for a national action plan to reduce interactions with professional
fishing activity.
The objectives
Tartanet's main objective is to implement an effective long-term conservation strategy,
through the creation of a network of support centres to help reducing the threats
to Caretta caretta. In addition to recovering and caring for the turtles accidentally
caught during fishing activiy, the Centres will be engaged in monitoring the nesting
sites, applying low-impact fishery systems and testing TED (Turtle Excluder Device),
a device that allows turtles to escape immediately after capture in the net. Specific
training sessions are planned both for the operators of the centres and for the
fishermen involved in monitoring and recovery activities. A web portal on marine
turtles and an awareness programme directed to the general public will ensure the
widest exposure and dissemination of information.
Actions and means involved
The above objectives will be achieved through a series of actions calling for:
- the creation of a sea turtle network with the establishment of 5 new recovery
centres in hot spots and bringing those already existing into the network;
- coordination and standardization of programmes and activities on behalf of Caretta
caretta with creation of a screen-based network and implementation of a
schedule of training activities intended for centre operators;
- experimentation with systems to reduce accidental TED-type take and large-scale
application of systems using artificial baits like those adopted in the LIFE 03
NAT/IT/0163 project;
- implementation of a Turtle First Aid service with a nationwide 24-hour-a-day toll-free
number for the reporting of accidental catches and the implementation and coordination
of recovery efforts;
- creation of a portal on sea turtles and updating a data bank that can encourage
an exchange of experiences and the sharing of data among those who deal with sea
turtles; - creation of a package of programmes aimed at informing and training fishermen;
- preparation of a national plan for reduced interaction with fishing, including
programmes, regulations, legislation, possible forms of incentives to encourage
nationwide use of low-impact fishing systems;
- creation of a programme of public-awareness measures;
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