Pilot actions in the Northeast Edge of Crete

The Region of Crete, in the framework of IMPRECO project, has developed important pilot actions for the promotion and protection of Natura 2000 protected area of the Northeast Edge of Crete, through the promotion of basic services offered by the ecosystems of the region, which are associated with research, knowledge and education on the natural environment.

As part of the IMPRECO Pilot Action Plan, scientific data are collected and maps are created for the distribution of important species of fauna as well as habitats (Mavropetritis, Palm Forest in Vai, Cretan Frog, Mediterranean Seal, Meadows of Poseidonia) based on which:

  • measures to protect and improve their situation are proposed, such as the creation of artificial nests for Mavropetritis and filling lakes for the Cretan frog.
  • instructions for proper use of the area are given (code of conduct for visitors and professionals, tour routes), and
  • appropriate informative and educational material is created for the promotion and preservation of biodiversity (ecotourism map, brochure of introduction to the natural environment, presentations for the selected species and habitats, etc.).

The Joint Task Force Group created during the first phase of the project, with the participation of local stakeholders, had an active and very important role in the development of the Pilot Action Plan, but also in disseminating the results of the project. In this context, Region of Crete created promotional material that can be used by each interested party accordingly:

  • Ecotourism map, which can be posted on websites of institutions and on social media
  • Brochure, which can be posted on websites of institutions and social media but also distributed printed to the public
  • Five presentations, which can be included in informative and educational programs.

The dissemination of this material will support in the best possible way the results of the project, while contributing to the common goals of the State and local community regarding the sustainable development of the region.