{"id":7390,"date":"2025-04-07T09:49:02","date_gmt":"2025-04-07T07:49:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mubadarat-uicn.org\/?p=7390"},"modified":"2025-05-13T13:55:07","modified_gmt":"2025-05-13T11:55:07","slug":"a-legacy-of-wetland-conservation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mubadarat-uicn.org\/en\/a-legacy-of-wetland-conservation\/","title":{"rendered":"A Legacy of Wetland Conservation"},"content":{"rendered":"

Conservation and Enhancement of Sebkhet Halk El Menzel and Oued Essed<\/h1>\n

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Since 2019, the Association for Research and Study on the Memory of Sousse (AREMS)<\/strong> has been actively involved in the preservation of wetlands, notably through the annual celebration of World Wetlands Day<\/strong>. With the support of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) center for mediterranean cooperation<\/strong>\u00a0under the PPI-OSCAN 3 program<\/strong>, the association has taken significant steps in conserving and enhancing the Sebkhet Halk El Menzel and Oued Essed<\/strong> wetlands.<\/p>\n

An Ecological Circuit for Awareness and Conservation<\/strong><\/h2>\n

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One of the project\u2019s key achievements was the development of an ecological circuit<\/strong> designed to raise awareness about biodiversity and the importance of wetland conservation. This initiative provides visitors with an immersive experience while promoting community engagement in environmental preservation.<\/p>\n

To facilitate access to these natural sites, the association installed an observatory, two watchtowers, a staircase, and observation cabins<\/strong>. These infrastructures have enabled the introduction of birdwatching<\/strong>, a previously unavailable activity in this protected area. Visitors can now enjoy panoramic views of the wetland, fostering a deeper appreciation for the ecosystem and its rich biodiversity.<\/p>\n

This tour was designed to appropriately celebrate World Wetlands Day 2025, highlighting the critical importance of these ecosystems.<\/p>\n

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Scientific Monitoring for Ecosystem Protection<\/strong><\/h2>\n

In 2023, AREMS launched a water quality monitoring and assessment program<\/strong> across three key ecosystems in the region:<\/p>\n

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  • Oued Essed<\/li>\n
  • Sebkhet Halk El Menzel, including the lagoon<\/li>\n
  • The aquaculture basins<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    This periodic monitoring system aims to track the ecological health of the wetland and alert relevant stakeholders<\/strong> in case of environmental threats. By adopting this approach, the association has contributed to long-term sustainable management and the early detection of potential ecological issues.<\/p>\n

    Strong Advocacy for Site Protection<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Beyond conservation and awareness efforts, AREMS has been actively involved in advocacy<\/strong> to safeguard the wetland. Key actions included:<\/p>\n

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    • Banning hunting<\/strong> in the area to protect vulnerable species such as the Marbled Teal (Marmaronetta angustirostris<\/em>).<\/li>\n
    • Resisting real estate lobbying<\/strong> that seeks to alter the site\u2019s agricultural status, which could endanger its ecological balance.<\/li>\n
    • Encouraging sustainable site management<\/strong>, including anti-erosion measures such as the planting of Acacia trees around the lake.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Halk El Menzel: A Wetland of International Importance<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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      • Designated as a Ramsar site since 2012<\/strong>, Sebkhet Halk El Menzel<\/strong> is a coastal saline lagoon<\/strong> that represents a nearly natural sebkha, a characteristic wetland type of Tunisia\u2019s semi-arid Sahel region. This site plays a crucial ecological role:\n
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        • It serves as a vital habitat for several ecologically significant species.<\/li>\n
        • It is a wintering and nesting ground for migratory birds.<\/li>\n
        • It functions as a spawning ground for fish species such as Mugil sp.<\/em> and Lisa sp.<\/em>.<\/li>\n
        • It supports local fisheries, aquaculture, and livestock farming.<\/li>\n
        • It acts as a natural floodwater absorption system, mitigating the impact of sudden floods from major tributary wadis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

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          A Model Project Supported by PPI-OSCAN3<\/strong><\/h2>\n

          Thanks to the PPI-OSCAN 3<\/a> <\/span>program (coordinated by IUCN-Med and funded by the French Fund for the Global Environment (FFEM), the MAVA Foundation and the Sigrid Rausing Trust ) <\/strong>, AREMS was able to strengthen its impact by integrating conservation, ecotourism, and community awareness into its efforts. This project has demonstrated that local NGOs<\/strong> can play a crucial role in wetland conservation when provided with the necessary resources and support.<\/p>\n

          Today, the infrastructure and initiatives developed continue to benefit visitors, researchers, and local communities. The project\u2019s legacy is reflected in the increased understanding of the region\u2019s ecological value and a heightened commitment to its protection.<\/p>\n