Cayman Islands National Biodiversity Action Plan 2009 2.T.

2 Terrestrial Habitats Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Rev: 19 March 2012

MAT COTTAM

Definition Fresh water is defined as water with less than one part per thousand dissolved salts, (USGS guidelines). Seawater contains about 35 parts per thousand. Brackish water generally falls between the two. The salinity of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons generally decreases with heavy rain, and increases due to evaporation. Some become hypersaline, (saltier than seawater), especially during the dry season. Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons incorporates permanent and temporary features, and includes man-modified areas, such as flooded marl pits and dykes. Temporary features may form in response to single rain events, and last only for a few hours or days. Even permanent water features are generally highly seasonal in extent, according to depth. Natural freshwater pools are a rarity in the Cayman Islands, and of key conservation interest. With appropriate management, the ecological value of man-modified water features can be greatly increased. The vegetation formation of tidal tropical or subtropical annual forb vegetation is known from only one location in the Cayman Islands: a land-locked wetland, tidally flooded by seawater percolating through underground fissures, in the area of Preston Bay, Little Cayman, supporting a unique, almost monospecific stand of Salicornia bigelovii.

For Reference and Acknowledgement: Cottam, M., Olynik, J., Blumenthal, J., Godbeer, K.D., Gibb, J., Bothwell, J., Burton, F.J., Bradley, P.E., Band, A., Austin, T., Bush, P., Johnson, B.J., Hurlston, L., Bishop, L., McCoy, C., Parsons, G., Kirkconnell, J., Halford, S. and Ebanks-Petrie, G. (2009). Cayman Islands National Biodiversity Action Plan 2009. Cayman Islands Government. Department of Environment. Final Formatting and production by John Binns, International Reptile Conservation Foundation.

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Page: 1

Local Outline Freshwater ponds and pools are rare in the Cayman Islands. In most cases, pools with a high freshwater content are fringed by semipermanently flooded grasslands dominated by Bullrush (Typha) Typha domingensis. Due to the porous nature of the limestone rock from which the Islands are formed, rainwater quickly drains from the surface, with little opportunity to pool. Freshwater is less dense than brackish water and brine, and, in the absence of physical mixing, freshwater tends to float on top of saltwater. Once below ground, however, rainwater percolates downwards through the rock until it reaches the water table. Here it has a tendency to spread outwards, under the effect of gravity; until, typically, it eventually leeches out into the ocean. In some areas, where erosional fissures in the rock facilitate the ready passage of large volumes of water, freshwater may emerge as springs up welling from the seabed. When in full flow, potable water may be draw from the sea in these areas. In extensive areas of dry uplands, and in areas where the lateral movement of freshwater is interrupted by impermeable elements in the rock (such as ironpan formation), freshwater builds up, amassing as a subterranean fresh-water lens, often perched atop more saline water below. As a result, in the Cayman Islands, freshwater ponds and pools occur only where surface run-off of rainwater is immediately interrupted by impermeable elements in the rock, or where the ground level drops sufficiently to expose the surface of the freshwater lens. Many inland pools remain under the influence of the tide, by virtue of underground aquifers, resulting in pool waters rising and falling in delayed tandem with tidal levels. Rather like human beings, most animals and plants are highly sensitive to salinity gradients. Many species are unable to tolerate even modest fluctuations in the salinity of the water which they drink, or in which they live. For this reason, freshwater ponds and pools offer an important source of drinking water to many species, especially birdlife, and support a variety of plants and animals which are not found elsewhere. The majority of pools and ponds in the Cayman Islands are salty to some extent - ranging from brackish to saline and hypersaline. Due to the tendency for freshwater to float on top of saltwater, the surface waters of undisturbed pools and ponds are generally fresher during the rainy season, with deeper waters generally more brackish. This vertical salinity gradient is termed a halocline. Pools and ponds are abundant in mangrove and Buttonwood wetlands. Small seasonally and tidally flooded mangrove pools may arise from the uprooting of Black Mangrove Avicennia germinans during hurricanes. They are often isolated from the underlying water table and subject to seasonal flooding and evaporation cycles. Larger permanently or near-permanently flooded mangrove ponds are also to be found within both mangrove and Buttonwood forests and shrublands. These may similarly occur in both seasonally and tidally flooded settings, with salinity ranging from hypersaline to lightly brackish according to setting and seasonal rainfall. Mangrove pools and ponds provide habitat for native fish and invertebrates, such as Fiddler Crabs Uca speciosa, and so represent a major food resource for resident and migratory birds, particularly herons and egrets. They also support a large population of Hickatees Trachemys decussata. Large mangrove lagoons occur in coastal settings on all three Cayman Islands, separated from the sea by beach ridges. These features are formed by hurricane storm surges and floodwater drowning mangroves, resulting in the death of trees and their replacement by standing water. Mangrove lagoons are typically saline or brackish, with salinity varying seasonally, and peaking during the dry season. Mangrove lagoons generally exhibit some weak tidal influence through a connection to groundwater tides. Mangrove lagoons are biologically productive, and attract large flocks of waders, shorebirds, herons and egrets and most notably in Little Cayman, the Booby Pond provides security for the Caribbeans largest breeding colony of Red-footed Boobies Sula sula. Several mangrove lagoons have been designated Animal Sanctuaries, in recognition of their importance to bird life. Key Habitat Categories for Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Incorporates the following vegetation formations, as per Burton (2008b): Semi-permanently flooded grasslands V.A.1.N.h. Aquatic vegetation V.C.1.N.a. Tidal tropical or subtropical annual forb vegetation V.D.1.N.d. (NOTE: Due to the vegetation component of this habitat, it is also listed under salt-tolerant succulents) Mangrove pools and ponds Mangrove lagoons Flooded marl pits Key Species for Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons The following are selected from the schedules of the draft National Conservation Law; illustrating some of the endemic species, and those protected under international agreements, which are dependent upon this habitat. Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Page: 2

KEY SPECIES for POOLS, PONDS AND MANGROVE LAGOONS Category Mammals Detail PART 1 All bats are protected under part 1 All birds are protected under part 1, unless specifically listed in part 2. Of special significance to this habitat: Herons, egrets, waterfowl West Indian Whistling-duck Antillean Nighthawk (Rickery-dick) Pygmy Blue Butterfly PART 2 Birds Reptiles Reptiles Fish Fish Invertebrates Plants INVASIVE Reptiles Plants Red-eared Slider Water Snowflake Trachemys scripta Nymphoides indica Blue-winged Teal Hickatee (Taco River slider) Grand Cayman Water Snake Mosquito Fish Mosquito Fish Isopod Anas discors Trachemys decussata angusta Tretanorhinus variabilis lewisi Gambusia xanthosoma Limia caymanensis Anopsilana crenata Ruppia maritima SAP SAP Chiroptera Aves SAP Scientific Reference NBAP

Birds

Dendrocygna arborea Chordeiles gundlachii Brephidium exilis thompsoni

SAP SAP

Invertebrates

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Page: 3

Current Status of Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons - Grand Cayman

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Protected Areas National Trust Land Semi-Permanently Flooded Grasslands V.A.1.N.h Flooded Marl Pits Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons
0 0.5 1 2 Kilometers 3 4 5

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Cayman Islands National Biodiversity Action Plan 2009 www.doe.ky www.caymanbiodiversity.com

Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons - Cayman Brac

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Protected Areas National Trust Land Semi-Permanently Flooded Grasslands V.A.1.N.h Ponds, Pools and Mangrove Lagoons
0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 Kilometers 2 2.5

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Cayman Islands National Biodiversity Action Plan 2009 www.doe.ky www.caymanbiodiversity.com

Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons - Little Cayman

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Protected Areas National Trust Land Salicornia bigelovii V.D.1.N.d Semi-Permanently Flooded Grasslands V.A.1.N.h Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons
0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 Kilometers 2 2.5

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Cayman Islands National Biodiversity Action Plan 2009 www.doe.ky www.caymanbiodiversity.com

HABITAT STATUS 2006 PONDS, POOLS AND MANGROVE LAGOONS Category GC Semi-permanently flooded grasslands V.A.1.N.h Tidal tropical or subtropical annual forb vegetation V.D.1.N.d Flooded marl pits Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons >0.25 acres* Water features associated with golf courses and developments Sewage settlement ponds Canal works not currently open to the sea MRCU canals Dry lake bed TOTAL Total area (acres) CB LC Area within protected areas (acres) GC CB Vegetated 122.7 0.2 2.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 122.1 0.2 2.0 0.4 0.0 0.0 LC Area outside protected areas (acres) GC CB LC % Habitat protected GC CB LC

0.0

0.0

0.6

0.0

0.6

0.0

Open Water 366.4 2117.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 241.2 0.0 179.4 x x x 59.8 366.4 1937.9 x x x 181.4 0.0 8.5 x x x 24.8

104.2

0.0

0.0

0.0

104.2

0.0

8.3 42.3 106.6 0.0 2867.8

0.0 0.0 0.0 34.2 34.4

0.0 0.0 0.0 413.2 657.0

0.0 0.0 0.0 x 179.9

x x x 0.8 0.8

x x x 49.7 109.5

8.3 42.3 106.6 x 2687.9

x x x 33.4 33.5

x x x 363.5 547.5

0.0 0.0 0.0 x 6.3

x x x 2.4 2.4

x x x 12.0 16.7

Terrestrial protected areas in the Cayman Islands are limited to Animal Sanctuaries, National Trust property, and the mangrove fringe associated with the North Sound Environmental Zone. The Animal Sanctuaries established under the Animals Law (1976), incorporate four significant inland pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, (two in Grand Cayman, one in Cayman Brac, one in Little Cayman), extending to a total of 341 acres. As of Jan 2009, National Trust owned / shared ownership properties, protected under the National Trust for the Cayman Islands Law (1987), extended to a total of ca. 3109 acres. * In the estimation of the total area of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, only pools greater than 0.25 acres were incorporated towards reducing variation associated with highly variable temporary pools.

Key Sites for Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons GRAND CAYMAN: Governor Gores Bird Sanctuary Palmetto Pond Malportas Pond Meagre Bay Pond Pease Bay Pond Sea Pond Vulgunners Pond Colliers Pond CAYMAN BRAC: The Splits Heymanns Pond Salt Water Pond (Dennis Point Pond)

LITTLE CAYMAN: Booby Pond Tarpon Lake Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Page: 7

Protected areas containing Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Barkers - subject of current purchase effort by CIG, towards establishment of a National Park would incorporate the large permanent Sea Pond and temporary Palmetto Pond. Currently Barkers remains unprotected, and so does not contribute towards protected areas statistics. Governor Gores Bird Sanctuary Colliers Pond Animal Sanctuary Meagre Bay Pond Animal Sanctuary Uncle Sammys Pond Botanic Park incorporating a small pond area Booby Pond Nature Reserve Animal Sanctuary and Ramsar Site of which ca. 201.6 ac is mangrove lagoon and fringing vegetation Saltwater Pond Animal Sanctuary The Splits dry shrubland incorporating small freshwater features Nature Conservation Importance of Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Area (acres) 94.95 to-date 1.84 28.05 96.37 3.28 61.18 457.2 15.56 17.76

Location

Ownership

Grand Cayman Grand Cayman Grand Cayman Grand Cayman Grand Cayman Grand Cayman Little Cayman Cayman Brac Cayman Brac

CIG NT CIG CIG NT CIG / NT NT CIG NT

Rarity: the extreme rarity of freshwater ponds and pools in the natural complement of habitat types of the Cayman Islands probably means that the availability of freshwater has always been a limiting factor for the wildlife of the Islands. As such, any reduction in the existing complement of freshwater ponds and pools would be expected to have severe implications for the wildlife carrying capacity of the Islands. Biodiversity: freshwater ponds and pools represent oases of highly dependent biodiversity. In addition to aquatic flora and fish, ponds and pools are of particular value to a diversity of invertebrates, many of which are dependent on the availability of freshwater at specific stages in their lifecycle. Permanent freshwater ponds and pools provide the sole dependable source of water for the Islands resident and migratory birds. Freshwater is utilised by birds for drinking and bathing. Many waders, waterfowl, herons and egrets additionally depend on the fish and invertebrate stocks of ponds, temporary pools and mangrove lagoons as feeding habitat. Migratory birdlife: migratory birds journey to overwinter in the Cayman Islands, mostly via the Eastern Seaboard and Atlantic Flyway routes. Numbers peak Oct-Mar; corresponding with the Islands driest months. During this period, temporary sources of freshwater are rare or non-existent. This results in a disproportionate reliance on ponds and pools in our migratory bird population. Associated fish and invertebrates also provide a vital source of nourishment for large populations of migratory birds, particularly herons and egrets. In most cases, migratory birds using the Atlantic Flyway probably arrive in Cayman via Cuba. It is estimated that over 60 species annually cross the 150 miles from Florida to Cuba. About half remain there for the winter. Birds which fly on from Cuba will require either that they find suitable over-wintering habitat elsewhere in the Caribbean, or continue on, to South America. If the Cayman Islands is unable to provide adequate provisioning for migratory birds to remain over the winter months, or to replenish stocks sufficient for completion of their journey southward, it is likely that after visiting the Cayman Islands migratory birds will face the challenge of crossing 400 miles of unbroken ocean to the South American coast, lacking adequate provision. Recovery potential: given the transient nature of many ponds and pools, a large proportion of dependent species tend towards r-selection strategies. In ecological theory, r-selected species exhibit rapid onset of maturity and reproduction, and wide-spread dispersal (r referring to the growth rate of the population as the determining factor in the dynamics of the population). This means that, given appropriate baseline conditions and management, artificially created ponds and pools will have a tendency to rapidly accrue a natural complement of species. This makes ponds and pools a comparatively attractive candidate for restoration projects. Other: Nature tourism & recreation: given their capacity to attract large numbers of birds, pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons are among the sites most valued by birdwatchers. Governor Gores Bird Sanctuary, a small (1.84 acres) freshwater pool in the Spotts area has recorded over 60 species of birds, and incorporates a small hide and interpretative panels. The Booby Pond Nature Reserve on Little Cayman is a major tourism asset. A visitor centre operated by the National Trust provides viewing of the spectacularly large breeding colony of Red-footed boobies Sula sula and Magnificent frigatebirds Fregata magnificens. Aesthetic value: Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons are an attractive feature which can be incorporated into landscaping designs, towards increasing the ecological value of the built environment. Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Page: 8

 Storm water management: paradoxically, while the natural permeability of the bedrock of the Cayman Islands contributes to a paucity of freshwater ponds and pools established development practice in urban areas contributes to infilling of ponds and pools and a proliferation of impermeable surfaces, especially asphalt and concrete. The net effect of this form of development is the loss of natural ponds and pools and the encouragement of water pooling on artificial surfaces, especially roads. Water pooling reduces road longevity, drivers visibility, and contributes to traffic congestion. In many instances, this has necessitated artificial storm water management, such as deep wells. These techniques are expensive to employ, and are of questionable effectiveness given the relatively shallow water table on the majority of the Islands. There is evidence that urban wetlands absorb storm water more cheaply than artificial systems (Poole 1993). Microclimate: is a localised atmospheric zone where conditions differ from the surrounding area. Evaporation and transpiration associated with ponds and pools contribute to cooling in urban areas, and a reduction in urban hot spots. Wildlife corridors: ecological isolation of ponds and pools contributes to a reduction in their value, especially with respect to species which depend on ponds and pools for a part of their life-cycle, and so are required to travel large distances to reach freshwater. This is especially significant where migratory corridors are bisected by roads. Interruption of natural drainage: disruption of natural drainage systems by urban and suburban construction has modified natural water courses on the islands, cutting-off water supply to some areas, and encouraging pooling of standing water in other areas, resulting in large-scale habitat modification, particularly in wetland areas. Current Factors Affecting Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Quarrying: low-lying areas are generally regarded as being of little value. This has encouraged the establishment of numerous quarries, both legal and illegal, in low-lying areas. Quarrying activity is generally governed by economic maximization, resulting in the formation of deep, sheer-sided excavations. Modifications which might maintain ecological value, such as shallow banks, sloped sides, and island features, are rarely incorporated into designs. There is generally no requirement for an exit or restoration strategy for quarry workings, and where there is a requirement, this is often not enforced. Invasive species: the Water Snowflake Nymphoides indica, has established in many ponds and pools, blanketing the water surface, reducing light availability and excluding the native Water Lily Nymphaea ampla. Residential development: the expansion of urban areas contributes to the filling of natural ponds and pools, or conversely, their extensive deepening as a source of fill. It is standard practice for the resultant deep, steep-sided excavations to be proposed as fulfilling the requirement for land for public purposes in associated planning applications. In fact, such excavations should be regarded as a public hazard. In addition to obvious issues associated with siting a deep, steep-sided water-filled hole in a residential area, lack of associated management provision, aeration facility, and likely nutrification from landscaping run-off and effluent leachate associated with residential development, promotes eutrophication of the system. Lack of public education: Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons are commonly undervalued. There is some misunderstanding of the role of ponds and pools in storm-water management, with a perception that flooding is actually caused by ponds overflowing, rather than receiving and alleviating stormwater burden from the local area. Eutrophication: nutrification of ponds and pools originating from phosphate and nitrate rich run-off, and artificial stocking with fish in the absence of appropriate management contributes to eutrophication. Typically, algal blooms give rise to signatory bright green water, promoting anoxic conditions in the water column, resulting in fish-kill, bacterial proliferation, and foul odours. Once the ecological balance of a eutrophic system is established, reversion and recovery can be difficult. Aeration: lack of appropriate aeration of the water column, especially in artificially deepened and nutrient-loaded pools, contributes to poor aeration of the water column, resulting in anoxic conditions. This can lead to fish-kill, bacterial proliferation, and foul odours. Pollution: nutrients and chemical pollutants, especially oils, introduced through run-off can severely impact sensitive pondlife, especially when the filtration capacity of ponds and pools is reduced by the removal of buffer vegetation. Climate change: changes in rainfall patterns, severe storms and elevation of sea-level might be expected to impact ponds and pools. Modification of freshwater ponds and pools, especially, may also influence their ability to support migratory birdlife.

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Page: 9

 Local climate: in the Cayman Islands, pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons are dependent on rainwater for maintenance of water-level. Rainfall patterns, particularly in Grand Cayman, are highly localized, with the Central Mangrove Wetland contributing an estimated 40% of the rainfall to western districts. As such, reduction in the extent of the Central Mangrove Wetland would be expected to contribute to a reduction in rainfall feeding freshwater ponds and pools in this area. Hurricanes are a major influence on vegetation surrounding mangrove lagoons. Storm surges and prolonged flooding promote expansion of the open water area at the expense of surrounding mangroves. Buffer vegetation: peripheral vegetation around pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons acts as a barrier to particulate matter, and a sink for nutrients, deterring clouding and nutrification. Water abstraction: water abstraction for non-potable supply, industry, and irrigation, either directly from standing pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, or from aquifers, can depress water levels and exacerbate nutrient enrichment. Introduction of fish: Tilapia (a generic term covering ca. 70 species of cichlid fishes) are a common feature of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons in the Cayman Islands. They can survive in both fresh and brackish water. Tilapia may be introduced by human action, or incidental introduction of spawn on the feet of wading birds. Most are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation and detritus. Their bottom-feeding activity can promote water turbidity, and accelerate the release of nutrients from sediments, exacerbating enrichment. Buffer zone ownership: under the Animals Law, pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons which constitute Animal Sanctuaries incorporate a buffer zone of vegetation around the shoreline. In the cases of Meagre Bay Pond and Colliers Pond, these buffer zones extend to 300ft inland beyond the high-water line of the ponds. In the cases of the Booby Ponds, the buffer zone is more variable. While designated as protected, buffer zone land remains in private ownership, and has been subject to repeated instances of dumping and clearance in the past. Opportunities and Current Local Action for Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons The National Trust for the Cayman Islands owns and protects the Booby Pond on Little Cayman, in association with land to the north, including the entire breeding colony of Red-footed Boobies and Frigatebirds. The site is a designated Animal Sanctuary, and the Cayman Islands only Ramsar site. The National Trust for the Cayman Islands has recently expanded its Governor Gores Bird Sanctuary to 1.84 acres. Restoration of the degraded land was commenced with the planting of trees from the Native Tree Nursery. The National Trust for the Cayman Islands has recently purchased Sammys Pond in West Bay. This extensively man-modified site incorporates a freshwater pool. Modification of the site and stocking of the pool with Tilapia has contributed to unnatural nutrification and eutrophication of the pool. Large-scale fish death has occurred. The vegetation on site is almost entirely non-native. This site will require extensive management if its potential value for wildlife is to be realized. Meagre Bay Pond and Colliers Pond on Grand Cayman are protected as Animal Sanctuaries under the Animals Law. With passage of the National Conservation Law it may be possible to afford stronger protection to these sites. Key mangrove lagoons on Little Cayman (especially Tarpon Lake) are owned by the Crown, and so may also be candidates for legal protection. There are a large number of flooded marl pits in Grand Cayman. With appropriate management, the aesthetic impact and ecological value of these sites could be significantly improved. HABITAT ACTION PLAN for Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons OBJECTIVES 1. Update and refine existing maps of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, and determine salinity profiles. 2. Maintain pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons in a natural state, by allowing the natural processes which lead to their formation to continue. 3. Maintain and manage the variety of habitats, communities and species of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, and seek improvement of areas which have been degraded. 4. No net loss of natural pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons habitat. 5. Seek to increase pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons through incorporation of ecologically viable pools and ponds into storm water management plans for roads and urban areas. Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons Page: 10 TARGET 2008 2010 2010 2015 2015

Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons PROPOSED ACTION Policy & Legislation PL1. Pass and implement the National Conservation Law. PL2. Implement the Endangered Species (Trade & Transport) Law. PL3. No net loss of Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons habitat.

LEAD

PARTNERS

TARGET

MEETS OBJECTIVE 2,3,4 2,3 2,3,4,5

CIG DoE DoE

DoE CIG CIG

2006 2006 2008

PL3. REPORT: (2011) CIG moves to degazette Salt Water Pond, the only remaining Animal Sanctuary on Cayman Brac, towards developing the site as a marina. PL4. Commence prosecution for offences involving damage to existing Animal Sanctuaries and Ramsar sites, and associated buffer zones, and update and upgrade penalties for transgression of associated regulations. PL5. Promote amendment of the Planning Law, to facilitate rapid imposition of stop-orders on illegal developments and provide a responsive and effective enforcement mechanism. PL6. Strengthen the Development Plan on Grand Cayman, and develop and implement guidelines for coastal management to discourage damage or disturbance to Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons. PL7. Promote establishment of a Development Plan for the Sister Islands, incorporating a long-term vision for the environmental, social, and economic development of the Islands. PL8. Continue and improve implementation of international conventions, agreements and declarations to which the Cayman Islands is committed. PL9. Work with Department of Planning to promote and formalize guidelines for the establishment of an escrow fund to cover the costs of site restoration, for all new quarry applications. PL10. Implement policy and develop mechanisms through the Land Registry to ensure that legal responsibility for the management of artificial water bodies created as a result of new developments remains with private landowners. PL11. Work with Department of Planning to introduce regulations to prevent speculative clearance of land, and enforce regulations prohibiting clearance of land by mechanical means without planning permission. SM1. Use the Environmental Protection Fund to establish a protected area / management agreement with landowners of priority pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons in the Cayman Islands. SM2. Incorporate existing Animal Sanctuaries and additional Crown mangrove lagoons into a National System of Protected areas. SM3. Establish experimental site for the design and testing of techniques to restore artificial pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons and determine the feasibility of a restoration programme. SM4. Subject to successful conclusion of SM3, embark upon a programme of nutrient control, biomanipulation, species reintroduction, and effective site management towards restoration of man-modified pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, towards regeneration of degraded areas. SM5. Improve visitor experience and reduce disturbance to protected pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons through effective interpretation, and management of access (including boardwalks, trails and hides for birdwatching). SM6. Implement Management Plan for the Booby Pond Nature Reserve. DoE CIG 2009 2,4

DoP

DoE CIG CIG MP DoE CIG MP DoE CIG DoP CPA DCB CIG CPA DCB CIG DoP CPA DCB

2010

2,3

DoP CPA DoP DCB DoE DoE

ongoing

2,3,4,5

ongoing ongoing 2012

2,3,4,5 2,3,4 3

DoE LS DoP

2012

DoE

2012

Safeguards & Management CC CC DoE DoE NT MP CIG DoE CIG 2015 2006 2012 2,4 2 3,4

DoE

2015

3,4

DoE NT

NT DoE

ongoing ongoing

3 3

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Page: 11

Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons PROPOSED ACTION SM7. Investigate site clearance and developments adjacent the Booby Ponds, to determine impacts to the site, and undertake enforcement action as required. SM8. Map and investigate potential for restoration of fringing vegetation, towards improving the biodiversity value of Salt Water Pond, Cayman Brac. SM9. Transfer Crown Wetlands in Little Cayman to protected area status. SM10. Subject to SM9, designate Little Cayman Crown Wetlands a Ramsar site. SM11. Establish the Barkers area as a designated National Park under the National Conservation Law, protecting Sea Pond and Palmetto Pond. SM12. Once designated, promote Barkers National Park for designation as a Ramsar site. SM13. Develop a Management Plan for Barkers National Park which incorporates and promotes compatible multi-use recreational activities for pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, such a kayaking SM14. Use the Environmental Protection Fund to construct a manned interpretation centre on the shore of Sea Pond, Barkers, to develop tourism capacity, and raise awareness of the value of associated habitats in visitors and residents. SM15. Access feasibility of designating Malportas Pond a protected area. This pond is currently under Crown ownership, and has recently been impacted by removal of buffer vegetation by illegal clearance for development. SM16. Produce management plans for pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons under National Trust ownership. SM17. Implement associated SAPs. Advisory A1. Promote best practice in Development Plans, to ensure the preservation and natural function of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons. A2. Ensure that local planning mechanisms take into account the wildlife interest of coastal shrubland. A3. Promote adherence to pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons guidelines in relevant planning applications. A4. Work with Department of Planning to formalize restoration protocol for quarry applications, incorporating adherence to pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons guidelines where appropriate, and promote establishment of an escrow fund to cover the costs of close-plans prior to agreement of new excavations. A5. Work with National Roads Authority to complement new roads developments with creation of suitably designed artificial pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons as an active and aesthetic component of the stormwater management. A6. Provide advice for landowners and developers on the effective management of eutrophic pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, to promote environmental health and conservation of biodiversity. A7. Targeted awareness of the need for the National Conservation Law and the Endangered Species (Trade & Transport) Law. A7. REPORT: Extensive public outreach Mar-Sept 2010.

LEAD

PARTNERS

TARGET

MEETS OBJECTIVE

Safeguards & Management DoE NT DoE CC DoE CC CC DoE CIG CIG DoE NT MP CIG CC CIG MP NT DoE MP CIG DoE MP CIG CC CIG 2010 2009 2012 2012 2006 2015 2015 2,3,4 3 2,4 2,4 3,4 3,4 3,4

DoE

CIG CC

2015

DoE NT DoE

DoP CIG DoE

2012 2009 2015

2,4 3 1,2,3,4,5

DoE DoE DoE

DoP CPA DCB DoP CPA DCB NT

ongoing ongoing 2015

2,3,4,5 2,3,4,5 2,3,4

DoE

DoP CPA

2015

2,3,4

DoE

DoP CPA

2015

3,5

DoE DoE CIG NT

ongoing 2006

3 2

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Page: 12

Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons PROPOSED ACTION Research & Monitoring RM1. Map all Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons in the Cayman Islands. RM1. REPORT: (2009) Completed in NBAP. RM2. Complete analysis of all significant Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons in the Cayman Islands, to determine water quality, nutrient enrichment and salinity. RM3. Identify and prioritise most significant Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons in the Cayman Islands. RM4. Instigate the design and testing of experimental techniques to restore artificial Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, including seed collection, propagation and planting, and the ecology of key fauna. RM5. Develop guidelines for restoration of degraded man-made Pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons to maximize ecological value. RM6. Investigate potential for disused marl-pits in key areas to be acquired by the crown, for restoration and development as public amenities and wildlife preserves. RM7. Assess ecological status of existing Animal Sanctuaries and compile Management Plans for their maintenance, upkeep and improvement. RM8. Incorporate all pre-existing and forthcoming research and monitoring data, habitat mapping and imagery into a spatially-referenced database. RM9. Develop and expand research programmes, to incorporate and target indicators of climate change. RM10. Utilise remote sensing to instigate a five-yearly habitat mapping programme. CP1. Subject to successful conclusion of RM4, increase public awareness by developing an artificial pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons test site for educational purposes. CP2. Subject to successful conclusion of RM4, publish guidelines for restoration of degraded pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons as an educational document for land owners. CP3. Develop and emplace interpretation for pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons in Barkers area, towards maximising visitor experience / minimising impact. CP4. Raise public awareness of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons by introducing an educational Study Ponds for schools programme. CP5. Utilise designation of new National Parks and protected areas to promote the Cayman Islands internationally. CP6. Raise public awareness regarding the biological and physical factors which contribute to eutrophication of pools, ponds and mangrove lagoons, and publish guidelines to assist preventative and remedial measures.

LEAD

PARTNERS

TARGET

MEETS OBJECTIVE 1

DoE

2008

DoE DoE DoE DoE DoE DoE DoE DoE DoE IntC CIG MP NT NT

2009 2009 2012 2015 2015 2006 2015 2010 2015

1 1 3,4,5 3,4 3,4 2,3,4 1 2,5 1

Communication & Publicity DoE MP 2015 3

DoE

MP

2015

DoE DoE DoE DoE

CIG NT CN DE DoT CIG NT MP MP

2012 2012 2006 ongoing

3 3 3 3

CP6. REPORT: (2011) Preliminary guidelines on construction of wildlife ponds completed.

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Page: 13

References and Further Reading for Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons
Baugh, T.M. (1985). Habitat preferences of pond fishes on Grand Cayman, BWI. Department of Biological. Science, University of Nevada. (unpublished data)

Brunt, M.A. and Davies, J.E. (1994). The Cayman Islands Natural History and Biogeography. pp. 604. Kluwer Academic Publishers. ISBN 0-79232462-5. Burton, F.J. (2008a). Threatened Plants of the Cayman Islands: The Red List. Royal Botanic Gardens Kew: Richmond, Surrey UK. Burton, F.J. (2008b). Vegetation Classification for the Cayman Islands. In: Threatened Plants of the Cayman Islands: The Red List. Royal Botanic Gardens Kew: Richmond, Surrey UK.
Management Plan for the Booby Pond Nature Reserve (1995) Produced by the National Trust for the Cayman Islands, the Environmental Advisory Committee, the Trusts Little Cayman District Committee, and the local community. (unpublished data) Moss, B., Madgwick, F.J. and Phillips, G.L. (1996). A guide to the restoration of nutrient-enriched shallow lakes. Environment Agency and Broads Authority, Norwich. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (1982). Eutrophication of waters. Monitoring, assessment and control. OECD, Paris.

Proctor, G.R. (2011). Flora of the Cayman Islands. ISBN 978 1 84246 403 8. 736 pp. Kew Publishing.
Poole, W. (1993). The Case for Urban Open Space. Draft report prepared for Trust for Public Land, San Francisco, California.

Section: 2.T.2 Terrestrial Habitats - Pools, Ponds and Mangrove Lagoons

Page: 14