gpl00-asp-642-y-tae-0075 01--integrated esia … · 2.2 pipeline construction and pre-commissioning...

Integrated ESIA GreeceAnnex 8.10 - Appropriate Assessment for GR1150001 and GR1150010

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Project Title: Trans Adriatic Pipeline – TAP GPL00-ASP-642-Y-TAE-0075

Rev.: 01 Document Title: Integrated ESIA Greece Annex 8.10 - Appropriate Assessment for GR1150001 and GR1150010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION 5 1.1 Purpose of this report 5 1.2 Legislative and other frameworks for the conduction of SpEA within

Natura 2000 sites. 5 1.3 Precedents, Stage One – Screening 7

2 PROJECT ACTIVITIES LIKELY TO GIVE RISE TO IMPACTS TO NATURA 2000 SITES 11

2.1 General Considerations 11 2.1.1 Project Overview 11

2.2 Pipeline Construction and Pre-commissioning 12 2.2.1 Construction Methods 12 2.2.1.1 Marking and Clearance of Working Strip 12 2.2.1.2 Topsoil Stripping 13 2.2.1.3 Grading 14 2.2.1.4 Trenching 14 2.2.1.5 Blasting 15 2.2.1.6 Backfill 16 2.2.1.7 Watercourse Crossings 16 2.2.1.8 Clean Up and Restoration 18 2.2.2 Pressure Testing during Construction (Hydrotesting) 18 2.2.2.1 Hydrotest Concept 18 2.2.2.2 Water Abstraction Sources 19 2.2.2.3 Discharge / Disposal Options 20

2.3 Operation and Maintenance 20 2.4 Decommissioning 21 2.5 Safety and Non-Routine Events 22

3 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY 23 3.1 Introduction 23 3.2 Evaluation of Significance 24 3.2.1 Habitats 26 3.2.1.1 Vulnerability / Sensitivity Criteria for Habitats / Ecosystems 26 3.2.1.2 Magnitude of Impact Criteria for Habitats / Ecosystems 27 3.2.2 Species 27 3.2.2.1 Vulnerability / Sensitivity Criteria for Species 28 3.2.2.2 Magnitude of Impact Criteria for Species 29

4 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT OF GR 1150001 AND GR 1150010 NATURA 2000 SITES 30

4.1 Introduction 30 4.2 Baseline Data Collection 31

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4.3 Activities Likely to Affect the Natura 2000 Sites (SAC & SPA) 33 4.3.1 TAP Project 33 4.3.2 Other Relevant Projects and Plans 36

4.4 Baseline Description of Natura 2000 Sites (SAC and SPA) 36 4.4.1 General Description of GR 1150010 and GR 1150001 36 4.4.2 Designation and Conservation Objectives for the SAC GR 11500010 and

SPA GR 1150001 38 4.4.2.1 Habitats Directive Site - SAC GR1150010 42 4.4.2.2 Birds Directive Site - SPA GR1150001 45 4.4.3 Qualifying Features / Species of the Protected Sites 46 4.4.4 Vulnerability of the Protected Sites 58

4.5 Assessment of Impacts on Habitats types due to Project Activities 59 4.5.1 Identification of Potential Impacts 59 4.5.2 Impact Assessment 60 4.5.2.1 Habitat Loss 60 4.5.2.2 Habitat Fragmentation 62

4.6 Assessment of Impacts on Annex II Species due to Project Activities 62 4.6.1 Identification of Potential Impacts 62 4.6.2 Impact Assessment 63 4.6.2.1 Habitat Loss 63 4.6.2.2 Habitat Fragmentation 63 4.6.2.3 Disturbance and Loss of Individuals 65

4.7 Assessment of Impacts on Annex I Bird Species due to Project Activities 67

4.7.1 Identification of Potential Impacts 67 4.7.2 Impact Assessment 68 4.7.2.1 Habitat loss 68 4.7.2.2 Disturbance (Noise, Light and Human Presence) 70 4.7.2.3 Fragmentation 71 4.7.2.4 Loss of Individuals 72

4.8 Cumulative Impacts 72 4.9 Mitigation Measures 73 4.9.1 Habitat Loss / Degradation & Habitat Fragmentation 74 4.9.2 Disturbance 76 4.9.3 Loss of Individuals 77

4.10 Assessment of Residual Impacts 78 4.11 Alternative (Including Zero Alternatives) 81 4.11.1 Comparison of Alternatives 81 4.11.1.1 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation 81 4.11.1.2 Disturbance 82 4.11.1.3 Loss of Individuals 82 4.11.2 Zero Alternative 82

4.12 Compensatory Measures 82 4.13 Summary 82 4.13.1 Habitats 83 4.13.2 Species 83

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SUPPLEMENT I – DATA RECORDS 84

LIST OF TABLES Table 1-1 Screening Process for Protected Areas likely to be affected by the Project 9 Table 2-1 Water Requirements for Hydrotesting 19 Table 3-1 Evaluation of Vulnerability / Sensitivity of Habitats 26 Table 3-2 Evaluation of Vulnerability/Sensitivity of Species 28 Table 4-1 Habitat types present on the site according. 42 Table 4-2 Qualifying Features/ Species for SPA GR1150001 and SAC GR1150010:

Bird Species included in Annex I of Council Directive 2009/147/EC 47 Table 4-3 Qualifying Features/ Species for SPA GR1150001 and SAC GR1150010:

Other Species Listed in Annex II of Council Directive 92/43/EEC 52 Table 4-4 Potential Impacts on habitats due to Project Activities 59 Table 4-5 Habitats affected by Project components 60 Table 4-6 Potential Impacts on species due to Project Activities 63 Table 4-7 Noise pressure level from construction activities 66 Table 4-8 Potential Impacts on Annex I and migratory bird species due to project

activities 68

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1-1 AA Stages 6 Figure 1-2 Natura 2000 sites potentially affected by the project 8 Figure 2-1 TAP’s route 11 Figure 2-2 Standard Working Strip 12 Figure 2-3 Reduced Working Strip 13 Figure 2-4 Indicative Cross Section of the Pipeline and Trench 15 Figure 2-5 Horizontal Direction Drilling (HDD) 17 Figure 3-1 Impact Significance Evaluation 25 Figure 4-1 SAC GR 1150010 & SPA GR 1150001 Area Cover and Location 31 Figure 4-2 Crossing of TAP through SAC GR 1150010 and SPA GR1150001 34 Figure 4-3 Crossing of Nestos River by Trenchless crossing method 35 Figure 4-4 Location of Habitats in the Vicinity of the Project (River Nestos Crossing) 45 Figure 4-5 Ecosystem Map of Nestos Delta, Complex of Lakes Vistonida and

Ismarida and the Wider Area 57

LIST OF BOXES

Box 3-1 Magnitude of Impact Criteria for Habitats / Ecosystems 27 Box 4-1 Conservation objectives for SPA GR1150001 40 Box 4-2 Conservation objectives for SAC GR1150010 41

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of this report

The present Appropriate Assessment (AA) has been prepared on the basis of the conclusions

presented in the Appropriate Assessment Screening Process Report (Annex 8.6) and forms an

integral part of the Environmental Impact Assessment report.

This report aims to provide a detailed ecological description of the GR1150001 SPA (Delta

Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis kai nisos Thasopoula) and GR1150010 SAC (Delta Nestou

kai limnothalasses Keramotis, evryteri perioxi kai paraktia zoni) sites expected to be traversed by

the TAP project, and to assess the potential effects of the project in terms of the maintenance of

the ecological integrity of the site.

The AA was carried out based on the potential project’s affections on the site’s conservation

objectives and qualifying interests and includes the definition of appropriate mitigation measures

so as to ascertain that the project will not adversely affect the integrity of the SAC/SPA sites.

This report includes, as a reference, the output of the screening exercise together with a

summary of the Special Ecological Assessment (SpEA). For detailed descriptions on these (i.e.

Screening Phase Process, EU legal framework and procedures), please refer to the Appropriate

Assessment Screening Process Report (Annex 8.6).

1.2 Legislative and other frameworks for the conduction of SpEA within Natura 2000 sites.

Natura 2000 network aims to assure the long-term survival of Europe's most valuable and

threatened species and habitats. It is comprised of Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)

designated under the Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under

the EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC).

EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) sets out various procedures and obligations in relation to

nature conservation management in the Natura 2000 sites, their habitats and species. Amongst

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them there is a series of procedural and substantive safeguards, that must be applied to plans

and projects that are likely to have a significant effect on these sites. These provisions of the

Habitats Directive have been incorporated into the national legislation through the Law

3937/2011 and Law 4014/2011, which set the obligation to conduct a Special Ecological

Assessment (SpEA) as an integral part of the Environmental Impact Assessment report when a

project that may cause significant environmental effects is planned within or in proximity of a site

of the European ecological network of Natura 2000.

In the lack of National Guidance documents for the specifications of the SpEA this AA has been

mainly based on the provisions indicated in the Assessment of plans and projects significantly

affecting Natura 2000 sites; Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of

the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC.

Based on the principles provided in the above-mentioned EU guidance, it has become generally

accepted that the assessment requirements of Article 6 establish a stage-by-stage approach.

These stages are summarized diagrammatically below, and an outline of the steps and

procedures involved in completing each stage follows:

Figure 1-1 AA Stages

Stage One: Screening — the process which identifies the likely impacts upon a Natura 2000 site

of a project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, and considers

whether these impacts are likely to be significant;

Stage Two: Appropriate Assessment — the consideration of impacts on the integrity of the

Natura 2000 sites of the project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or

plans, with respect to the site’s structure, function and its conservation objectives. Additionally,

where there are adverse impacts, an assessment of the potential mitigation of those impacts;

Stage 4 IROPI

Stage 3 Alternative Solutions

Stage 2 AA

Stage 1 Screening for

AA

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Stage Three: Assessment of alternative solutions — the process which examines alternative

ways of achieving the objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on the integrity

of the Natura 2000 site;

Stage Four: Assessment where no alternative solutions exist and where adverse impacts remain

— an assessment of compensatory measures where, in the light of an assessment of imperative

reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI), it is deemed that the project or plan should proceed

(it is important to note that this guidance does not deal with the assessment of imperative

reasons of overriding public interest).

1.3 Precedents, Stage One – Screening

Nine (9) Natura 2000 sites have been identified in the broader area of the proposed Project in

Greece that have the potential to be affected by Project activities, either because they are

crossed or because they are in the vicinity of the pipeline route or Project installations - see

Figure 1-2.

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Figure 1-2 Natura 2000 sites potentially affected by the project

Source: NCC (2013)

As per the results of the screening process (see Appropriate Assessment Screening Process

Report - Annex 8.6) it was concluded that potential significant effects on the qualifying values or

integrity of the GR1150001 SPA (Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis kai nisos

Thasopoula) and GR1150010 SAC (Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis, evryteri perioxi

kai paraktia zoni) may be raised and therefore a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment was needed.

The need for the AA was based on the direct crossing of the pipeline centreline to the site

(4.3 km section of the gas pipeline crosses the designated SAC from KP 152.5 to 158, while a

4.2 km section of the pipeline crosses the SPA site form KP 157 to 161.2). Table 1-1 below

presents the details on the findings for the Screening Phase.

The two Natura 2000 sites are overlapping for most part of their areas. More importantly they

form the same ecosystem and are based on the same qualifying characteristics. Consequently, it

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was deemed appropriate to present potential impacts of the project to these two sites in a single

Appropriate Assessment report.

Table 1-1 Screening Process for Protected Areas likely to be affected by the Project Pipe-line KP

Site name /EU code

Natura 2000 description Individual components of the project likely to give rise to impacts on the Natura 2000 site

Likely impacts/likely changes to the site

Screening result

152.5-158

Special Area of Conservation (SAC) (GR1150010) Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis – evryteri perioxi kai paraktia zoni

The site is situated in East Macedonia and Thrace and covers an area of 22,484.63 hectares. It consists of Nestos Delta and Keramoti lagoons. The nearest towns and villages are Keramoti andChrysoupolis while Kavala is situated 25 km and Xanthi 16 km away from the wetland. River banks are sandy with extended softwood and riparian forests. Moreover, a mosaic of biotopes at the mouth of the river, composed by reedbeds, Tamarix scrubs,inland as well as large coastal dunes is found. There are several greater lagoons with salt marshes around, where in the area of Chrysoupolis there are freshwater lakes with reedbeds and water lilies. There, a rocky off shore islet (island of Thassopoula) is also found. At the adjacent gorge of Nestos, rich vegetation grows on the steep cliffs and diverse fauna is provided with shelter. The wetland is important from ornithological point of view because of the large area it occupies and because of the high diversity of habitat types.It should be mentioned that in the arc from Nestos Delta up to Rhodopi Mountain all the vegetation zones existing in Europe (from Mediterranean up to subalpine grasslands) have been recorded. Moreover, it is a valuable part of the coastal wetland network of northern Greece.

The pipeline is crossing Nestos River area from KP 152.5 to 158, in the north east part of the site. Direct impacts due to the implementation of HDD method such as drilling, installation of the assembling sites of both entrance (drilling side) and exit point (pulling side) of the drill are anticipated. Indirect impacts such as disturbance to the species are also anticipated. Construction activities such as the clearance of the construction zone, trenching, pipe installation and reinstatement are expected to impact the protected area.

Part of the SAC has also an SPA designation (SPA GR1150001). The pipeline crosses the Natura 2000 site at its Northern part where most of the land cover consists of cultivations and close to the settlement of Krini and Thalassia. Habitat loss (mostly arable land), fragmentation and disturbance are expected due to construction activities. Temporary loss of habitat is limited to the working strip during the construction phase. In the operation phase permanent loss of habitat in the 8 m pipeline protection strip (PPS) is anticipated.

The site will be affected by the project. An Appropriate Assessment is required.

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Pipe-line KP

Site name /EU code

Natura 2000 description Individual components of the project likely to give rise to impacts on the Natura 2000 site

Likely impacts/likely changes to the site

Screening result

157-161

Special Protected Area (SPA) (GR1150001) Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis kai nisos Thasopoula

The site is situated in East Macedonia and Thrace and covers an area of 14,624.76 hectares. It consists of a large Delta and almost entirely of agricultural land with few freshwater lagoons separated from the sea by narrow sandy strips. Only a relict area of the previously extended riparian forest (Kotza Orman woods) remains along the river course near the mouth and the poplar plantation. In the area of Chrysoupolis there are freshwater lakes with reed beds and water lilies. In the northern part of the river on the steep cliffs, rich vegetation and diverse fauna are found. Most of the area of Nestos River is embanked by retaining dykes so that to be separated from the cultivated land. Generally it is one of themost important wetlands in Greece because of the large area that it occupies and because of its rich habitat types.

Construction activities such as the clearance of the construction zone, trenching, pipe installation and reinstatement are expected to impact the protected area. The pipeline is crossing the SPA site from KP 157 to 161. Nestos river pipeline crossing is about 2.8 km far on the edge of the north east boundaries of the site.

Part of the site has also an SCI designation (SCI -GR1150010). The pipeline crosses the Natura 2000 site at its Northern boundaries where most of the land cover consists of cultivations close to the settlement of Neos Xerias. Habitat loss (mostly arable land), fragmentation and disturbance especially to bird species are expected due to construction activities. Temporary loss of habitat is limited to the working strip during the construction phase. In the operation phase permanent loss of habitat in the 8 m pipeline protection strip (PPS) is anticipated. Disturbance to species will be restricted only during constructional period.

The site will be affected by the project. An Appropriate Assessment is required.

Source: NCC (2013)

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2 PROJECT ACTIVITIES LIKELY TO GIVE RISE TO IMPACTS TO NATURA 2000 SITES

2.1 General Considerations

The section below provides a brief description of project activities that are likely to give rise to

impacts on flora, fauna, and their respective habitats. The briefly described project activities are

presented in more detail in Section 4 of the ESIA study and in the Appropriate Assessment

Screening Report.

2.1.1 Project Overview

The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) is a planned natural gas pipeline in the Southern Gas Corridor,

which will carry gas from reserves in the Caspian region to South and Central Europe. The

pipeline will connect the existing gas network; starting from Greece, it will traverse Albania and

Adriatic Sea and will terminate in southern Italy. The Greek part of TAP will be consisted of a

pipeline with a total length of ~543 km. The pipeline will be made of welded steel pipe sections

with an average of 18 m in length and a diameter of 48 inches (1.2 m) and will be coated outside

in order to be protected from corrosion with a 3-layer polyethylene. Internal epoxy coating will be

applied, to reduce friction of the gas flow. It will be buried underground within a trench for its

entire length and protected against corrosion by a cathodic protection system. The project

consists of associated components such as 22 Block Valve Stations (BVS), 2 Compressor

stations, 8 construction camps, and 17 logistics pipe yards.

Figure 2-1 TAP’s route

Source: TAP (2012)

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2.2 Pipeline Construction and Pre-commissioning

The following activities could have a potentially damaging effect on the Natura 2000 sites.

2.2.1 Construction Methods

2.2.1.1 Marking and Clearance of Working Strip

The working strip, i.e. the required area for pipeline construction, must provide space for pipeline

fabrication (pipe stringing and welding, protective coating and quality testing of the fabricated

pipeline section, lowering into the trench), and for simultaneous vehicle movements, both to

happen in a safe manner. In general, the working strip requires a width of approximately 38 m

(Figure 2-2), but in areas where there are construction constraints (e.g. environmental or land

use constraints) and in general where limited space is available, the working strip may be

reduced from 38 m to 28 m) (Figure 2-3).

Figure 2-2 Standard Working Strip

Source: CPL00-ENT-100-F-DFT-0011_02

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Figure 2-3 Reduced Working Strip

Source: CPL00-ENT-100-F-DFT-0011_02

The working strip will be delineated and its preparation will involve clearing and grading activities.

The clearing will include removal of all structures, trees, bushes, boulders etc., as well as the

removal of tree stumps and roots from the trench so as to prevent any interference with the

trenching machine during its operation. Α description of the required grading activities is

presented below in section 2.2.1.3.

2.2.1.2 Topsoil Stripping Within the working strip topsoil will be carefully removed by excavators with flat 2 m/3 m wide

buckets. The fertile top soil (typically 0.3-0.5 m thick) will be stripped off over a width

approximately 22-24 m. The top soil is temporarily stored on one end of the working strip. The

non-fertile “sub-soil” obtained from the pipeline trench excavation will be stored on the opposite

side of the working strip. Fertile top soil will be re-deposited on top of the non-fertile soil for

reinstatement to assure adequate crop- or vegetation growth.

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2.2.1.3 Grading

As described above the working strip must provide sufficient working space for pipeline

fabrication and for simultaneous vehicle movements. Therefore the delineated strip will be graded

by specified equipment such as bulldozers and graders to the required width and so as to

simulate in a way to unpaved roads. However, grading will be less refined than that needed for a

road as construction equipment can negotiate steeper and more uneven terrain than passenger

vehicles. All grading activities will be carefully performed so as to facilitate any rehabilitation and

restoration measures that possibly will be applied after the completion of the construction of the

project.

2.2.1.4 Trenching

The pipeline will be buried underground within a trench for its entire length and protected against

corrosion by a cathodic protection system. The required trenching works will be mainly

undertaken by excavators and jack-hammers. The width of the trench will be determined by the

available depth, so as to prevent any instability incidents. In any case the excavated width will

enable easy installation of the pipe and protection of its external coating. For safety reasons and

in order to minimize impacts to existing land uses (e.g. agricultural) the buried pipeline will have a

soil cover of 1m minimum, however bigger depth will be required when crossing existing

infrastructures (1.2- 1.5 m). A typical cross section of the buried pipeline in the trench is imprinted

in Figure 2-4:

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Figure 2-4 Indicative Cross Section of the Pipeline and Trench

Source: ENT (2012)

It is possible that dewatering of the trench may be required in some sections along the pipeline’s

route, if the ground carries a significant amount of water. In any case prior to the discharge of

water to streams, rivers or irrigation ditches any relevant activities will be licensed and agreed

with authorities.

2.2.1.5 Blasting

In hard terrains, where conventional trenching methods are not effective, blasting will be required.

In such cases, the controlled use of explosives to break down and remove rocks and therefore

excavate the trench is performed. Blasting mats are usually placed on top of the explosions to

absorb the energy released and reduce dust and noise generated.

Blasting is not expected to be used during the crossing of the Natura 2000 sites GR1150001 or

GR1150010.

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2.2.1.6 Backfill

Backfill will normally be placed over the pipeline immediately after the pipe section has been

lowered into the trench and surveyed. The backfilled material will be compacted in layers.

Bulldozers will be used to push stockpiled materials removed from the ditch back into the ditch to

cover the pipe. In areas that contain large quantities of rock, selected fill material may be added

to put the first layer of cover over the pipe, or special padding machines may be brought in to

sieve the rock from the backfill before the latter is used for backfill. Extreme care will be taken

with the initial fill to avoid damage to the coating during backfill. After the initial layer of screened

material is placed on the pipe, the remaining soil and rock mixture will be returned to the open

ditch to complete the backfill.

2.2.1.7 Watercourse Crossings

The pipeline route crosses Nestos River from KP 153.33 – KP 154. Watercourse crossings will

generally be undertaken using open-cut methods. Open-cut methods require an open trench

through the watercourse. The trench is shaped according to the stability of the soil and is as deep

as required to provide the minimum cover for the pipeline after the pipe is installed. The surface

(river or stream bed) is then reinstated to its original condition after the trench is backfilled. A

principal drawback of the open-cut technique is that in aquatic systems, open-cut trenching can

generate a pulse of suspended sediment which can reach values that are higher than

background concentrations. The flumed and the dam and pump methods are usually less

intrusive with regard to high sediment concentrations. Special care should be taken when

performing excavation works as the watercourse enrich the river’s Delta which is a very important

wetland.

Nestos River and its adjacent ecosystem, is the most important watercourse crossed by TAP in

terms of ecological value (i.e. the habitats and species supported within the riparian area). For

Nestos crossing most constructional methods (open cut, pipe laying, bottom pulling ,etc.) could

be technically feasible, but the excavation and consolidation of a trench within such a sensitive

ecosystem may cause severe environmental impacts (i.e. habitat loss, fish, species disturbance,

etc.). For this reason, the Horizontal Directional Drilling method (HDD) has been selected as the

construction method so as to eliminate the chances of direct excavation in the riparian ecosystem

as illustrated in Figure 2-5.

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HDD is an alternative technology used for inserting pipelines under sensitive areas or

infrastructure. This method begins with boring a small diameter, horizontal hole (pilot hole) under

the crossing obstacle (e.g. a river) with a continuous string of steel drill rod. When the bore head

and rod emerge on the opposite side of the crossing, a special cutter, called a back reamer, is

attached and pulled back through the pilot hole. The reamer bores out the pilot hole so that the

pipe can be pulled through. The pipe is usually pulled through from the side of the crossing

opposite the drill rig. Typically HDD provides a stable and virtually maintenance-free crossing

method with minimal to no disturbance of the stream or river bed.

Figure 2-5 Horizontal Direction Drilling (HDD)

Source: TAP (2011)

The pipe side and the rig side sites will occupy an area of approximately 22,622 m2 and 4,997 m²

with a 280 and 320 m distance from the river bank of Nestos.

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2.2.1.8 Clean Up and Restoration

After completing the backfill of a given length of the pipeline trench, the restoration operation will

begin. The removed topsoil will be placed back on the working strip. The original contours of the

land will be restored as closely as possible. As part of the restoration process, all equipment

access crossings will also be removed. The banks of rivers will be stabilized where necessary,

and restored, and progressive rehabilitation will take place with the aim to return the area to its

pre-disturbed condition.

Any damage resulting from Project activities to drainage or irrigation systems will be reinstated in

agreement with the owner. The same applies to any damage to public roads or agricultural

tracks. Agricultural activities such as ploughing and grazing can continue after construction within

the 8 m pipeline protection strip (PPS), however, no planting of deep-rooting vegetation (i.e.

trees) will be allowed. The route of the pipeline will also be marked so that it can be inspected

from the ground and air.

2.2.2 Pressure Testing during Construction (Hydrotesting)

2.2.2.1 Hydrotest Concept

Hydrotesting (or hydrostatic testing) is the most common method for testing the integrity of the

pipeline and checking for any potential leaks (e.g. from cracked pipe work) prior to

commissioning. The test involves placing water inside the pipeline at a certain pressure to check

that the pipeline is not damaged and will not leak during operation.

The first step in Hydrotesting is the pipeline cleaning. This is carried out with a pipeline inspection

gauge or ’pig’, which is a tool that is sent down a pipeline and propelled by the pressure of the

product in the pipeline itself e.g. the water used for Hydrotesting or air used for pipe cleaning.

There are three main activities that will be performed by pigs before and after Hydrotesting:

1. Cleaning of the inside of the pipeline which is performed with a brush-type directional pig

driven along the pipeline by air before the hydro test.

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2. Gauge checking of the pipeline using a pig with a gauge plate attached. This pig is sent the

whole length of the pipeline to check for dents, imperfections and damages. The relevant

defect is then located and the damaged pipe section is repaired before the hydro test.

3. Drying of the pipeline using foam-type swabbing pigs after the hydro test.

The pipeline is then filled with water, which is pressurised. The Hydrotesting will be carried out in

sections up to 20 km in length. Hydrotesting activities are expected to require a total of 5 to 6

months and will be finished before commissioning activities.

The water used needs to be free of contaminants, relatively neutral (i.e. pH between 5 and 8),

and no additives, corrosion inhibitors or chemicals are used. Pressurization is then carried out

with a high pressure pump.

After the pipeline has been filled and pressurised, and all the necessary parameters measured,

the pipeline will be dewatered and dried.

2.2.2.2 Water Abstraction Sources

Surface water sources with larger amounts of water flow have been considered for water

abstraction and discharge. Table 2-1 shows the potential water sources identified along the TAP

route and the volumes required for Hydrotesting for each main section. The timing for the

hydrostatic testing activities will consider the seasonal changes of river flows and the reduced

flows during the summer months. As indicated in Table 2-1, approximately 25,230 m3 of water are

expected to be extracted from Nests River.

Table 2-1 Water Requirements for Hydrotesting

Water Source Discharge Point Approx. Volume Required (m3)

Evros River (KP 0) Evros River (KP 0) 51,880

Flourish River (KP 77.4) Flourish River (KP 77.4) 40,200

Xiropotamos (KP 113.0) Xiropotamos (KP 113.0) 33,820

Xantis (Kosynthos) (KP 136.0) Xantis (Kosynthos) (KP 136.0) 31,170

Nestos (KP 153.6) Nestos (KP 153.6) 25,230

Aggitis I (KP 223.7) Aggitis I (KP 223.7) 55,620

Strimonas (KP 290.3) Strimonas (KP 290.3) 62,230

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Water Source Discharge Point Approx. Volume Required (m3)

Parthenorema (KP 382.3) Axios (KP 376) 28,970

Parthenorema (KP 382.3) and Potamos (KP 419.9)

Potamos (KP 419.9) and Ammorycheias (KP 469.3)

55,070

Potamos (KP 419.9) Ammorycheias (KP 469.3) 52,870

Ammorycheias (KP 469.3) Ammorycheias (KP 469.3) 33,040

Aliakmonas (KP 524.6) Aliakmonas (KP 524.6) 43,200

Source: (ENT, 2012) The contractor for the hydrotesting will obtain written approvals from the local authorities and the

landowner(s) where the source of water is located prior to the extraction of hydrotest water.

2.2.2.3 Discharge / Disposal Options

Following successful testing, the used water will be discharged back into a receiving water body

after having passed a sedimentation pool, through which the water will flow very slowly. These

pools will be sized to provide a retention time of 5 minutes, which is considered enough time for

allowing the solid particles cleaned out of the pipe to settle and remain in the bottom of the pond.

The discharge rate after finalisation of hydro tests will follow the same rules as applicable for

abstraction. Hence the same water bodies will be taken into consideration for discharge.

Environmental effects are expected to be minimal or negligible when discharge rates are under

10% of the receiving river flow. Discharged water will be free of any chemicals.

The contractor for hydro testing will obtain written approvals from the local authorities and the

landowner(s) where the hydro test water will be discharged, water will not be returned to any

watercourse without permission of the appropriate local authorities.

River Nestos has been selected as a discharge point. Further details of the proposed hydrotest

activities are given in Section 4 of the ESIA.

2.3 Operation and Maintenance

As the pipeline in Greece will be buried along its entire length, no interaction with the

environment is anticipated during normal operation and therefore no impacts are expected.

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The TAP system will be monitored and maintained to ensure that the system, as designed,

constructed and tested remains "fit for purpose" throughout the design life as well as minimizing

environmental and human risk from non-routine events (refer to Section 2.5). In general, pipeline

surveillance, function checks and condition monitoring will be used to anticipate system problems

and allow them to be rectified in a timely manner.

Pipeline inspection and maintenance activities during operation will generally include the

following tasks:

• pipeline monitoring;

• route surveillance (possibly with road vehicles and helicopters);

• special crossing inspections;

• monitoring of population and third-party activities in close proximity to the pipeline;

• cathodic protection system monitoring;

• inventory monitoring surveys;

• functional operational checks and verification of plant and equipment; and

• routine maintenance of plant and equipment at pre-defined intervals.

Intelligent pigging (i.e. using a pipeline inspection gauge) of the pipeline will be undertaken on a

regular basis to confirm the geometry of the pipeline, to check and monitor wall thickness and in

addition, following suspected damage or a seismic event.

2.4 Decommissioning

The design lifetime of the pipeline is 50 years and the compressor station equipment, 25 years. It

cannot be foreseen today which approaches will be taken at the time of decommissioning, but

TAP AG is committed that this will be state-of-the-art when it occurs. Any decommissioning

activities will be subject to permitting requirements applicable at that time and subject to

consultation with affected owners and stakeholders of affected properties and structures. A

Pipeline Abandonment Plan (PAP) that covers all relevant items will be prepared before any

decommissioning works. This PAP will be submitted to the Greek authorities in due time prior to

the end of the lifetime of the system. The PAP will also include an assessment of the

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environmental and social impacts of the proposed decommissioning measures. Impacts will

obviously depend on the decommissioning approach and available dismantling techniques at that

time. Current International best practice1 is to leave pipelines in the ground (abandonment-in-

place) and secure it against structural collapse to prevent ground subsidence. In that case

impacts on the environment, land use and infrastructure will be minimal. If the pipeline is taken

out, e.g. to recover the pipe steel, impacts will be similar to construction stage. For crossings of

infrastructure and watercourses however, it appears likely that the respective pipe section will

simply remain in situ and only the structural status will be secured.

2.5 Safety and Non-Routine Events

A preliminary risk assessment of the onshore pipeline route was performed with the aim of

verifying the pipeline safety. The preliminary assessment determined that the route was feasible

with respect to safety of the pipeline and the surrounding population. In a few more densely

populated sections a potential for route optimisation was identified in order to further increase

distances from settlements. Furthermore, the most populated sections identified are relatively

short, enabling efficient technical risk mitigation to be applied where needed or required.

Environmental issues were significantly considered and a precautionary approach was followed

so as to minimize any potential environmental risks during the operation of the project.

1 See for example: http://www.neb.gc.ca/clf-nsi/rsftyndthnvrnmnt/sfty/rfrncmtrl/pplnbndnmnttchnclnvrnmntl-eng.html, and http://www.ukooaenvironmentallegislation.co.uk/contents/topic_files/offshore/decommissioning_pipelines.htm

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3 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

The appropriate assessment was carried out so as to assess the potential effects of the project

and its associated components in terms of the ecological integrity of each Natura 2000 site

crossed by TAP and with regards to its conservation objectives. Following, all necessary

mitigation measures are proposed in order to ascertain that the project will not adversely affect

the integrity of the sites. Towards this approach AA aims to analyse and evaluate the estimated

impacts with qualitative and quantitative data on:

• the habitat types of Annex I of the Habitats Directive and the Joint Ministerial Decision

14849/853/Ε103/4.4.2008 (G.G. B’ 645), particularly as to the representativeness of their

relative surface area and conservation status,

• species of flora and fauna listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive and the Joint

Ministerial Decision 14849/853/Ε103/4.4.2008 (G.G. B’ 645), especially in the size and

density of populations, their state of preservation and isolation,

• the bird species listed in Annex I of the Bird Directive and Joint Ministerial Decision

37338/1807/Ε.103 (G.G. Β΄ 1495), and all migratory birds of all species with significant

presence in Natura 2000, particularly as to the size and density of their populations, their

state of preservation and isolation

• qualitative and quantitative information about whether the integrity of the areas can be

ensured.

The assessment aims to address different types of impacts including:

• positive and adverse (negative) impacts;

• impacts arising directly from the Project or indirectly as a consequence of other changes

stimulated by the Project; and

• impacts arising permanently as a consequence of the development (e.g. loss of existing

habitats or land uses), temporarily during the construction period (e.g. noise from

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earthmoving), and over the long term during the operation of the facility (e.g. impacts on

habitat from regular vegetation clearance of the pipeline protection strip).

Impacts are assessed by comparing the baseline conditions (i.e. the situation before the

realization of the Project) with the conditions that will prevail if the Project is constructed and

operated. There are therefore four key stages in the assessment:

• Identifying the baseline conditions without the Project and the sensitivity and importance of

the receptors and resources at risk.

• Predicting the magnitude of impact on these receptors and resources, including the nature,

scale, extent and duration of change, and in the case of non-routine impacts, their

probability or frequency of occurrence.

• Evaluating the significance of impacts so that decision-makers understand the weight that

should be given to them in reaching decisions about the Project.

• Investigating options for mitigation of significant adverse impacts and agreeing measures to

be incorporated into the Project proposals with the proponent

3.2 Evaluation of Significance

The significance of an impact will depend on its predicted magnitude (based on its scale, extent

and duration), and on the value or importance of the affected receptor or resource. The

evaluation of impact significance is illustrated in Figure 3-1.

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Figure 3-1 Impact Significance Evaluation

Source: ERM (2012)

At the same time, the significance of effects should be determined in relation to the specific

features and environmental conditions of the protected site concerned by the project, taking into

account of the site’s conservation objectives.

In general, significance indicators might include:

• impact on Annex I habitat type (including loss or reduction in size - percentage relative to the overall area of the habitat in the Natura site; impairment of function);

• fragmentation of habitat type or population (depending upon the duration or permanence);

• disturbance (noise, light etc. - distance, duration);

• effect on species populations (direct or indirect damage to size, breeding patterns etc.);

• changes in water quality.

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3.2.1 Habitats

The significance of potential impacts to habitats has been evaluated taking into account the

following factors:

• the magnitude of both positive and negative effects, as determined by intensity, frequency and extent;

• the vulnerability / sensitivity of the habitat or species (receptor) to the change caused by the development;

• the ability of the habitat to recover, considering both fragility and resilience; and

• the value, in nature conservation and ecological terms, of affected receptors including species, populations, communities, habitats and ecosystems.

3.2.1.1 Vulnerability / Sensitivity Criteria for Habitats / Ecosystems

Table 3-1 presents the criteria used to evaluate the vulnerability / sensitivity of habitats along the

proposed pipeline route.

Table 3-1 Evaluation of Vulnerability / Sensitivity of Habitats

Vulnerability Low Medium High Criteria Habitat types according to 92/43/EEC

Widespread habitats in Greece

Rare habitats in Greece, not including those considered as a priority type according to 92/43/EEC

Rare habitats in Greece and a priority type according to 92/43/EEC

Conservation Status/Human impact

In the vicinity of urban centres or industrial areas

Lowland sites where grazing or agricultural activities may take place

Forests, wetlands (or other habitat) sections that are not logged or are under a specialized management scheme or are not readily accessible by paved roads.

Source: ERM (2012)

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3.2.1.2 Magnitude of Impact Criteria for Habitats / Ecosystems

Magnitude of impact is a combination of several factors, including:

• the spatial extent over which the impact is experienced;

• the duration of the impact and/or the extent to which it is repeated;

• the degree to which habitat fragmentation occurs;

• whether it is total loss to Project footprint or temporary occupation that can be remedied;

• for other physical changes (e.g. to the hydrological cycle), the extent of the change; and

• the size of the footprint in the context of the wider area of habitat that exists.

For accidental events such as an explosion, the likelihood of the event actually happening is part

of the magnitude.

Box 3-1 Magnitude of Impact Criteria for Habitats / Ecosystems Large Magnitude Impact: the Project (either on its own or together with other projects) may adversely affect the

integrity of a habitat, by substantially changing in the long term its ecological features, structures and functions,

across all or most of its area, that enable it to sustain the habitat, complex of habitats and/or population levels of

species that makes it important.

Medium Magnitude Impact: the habitat’s integrity will not be adversely affected in the long term, but the effect is

likely to be significant in the short or medium term to some, if not all, of its ecological features, structures and

functions. The habitat may be able to recover, through natural regeneration and restoration, to its state at the time of

the baseline study.

Small Magnitude Impact: neither of the above applies, but some minor impacts of limited extent, or to some

elements of the habitat, are predicted but the habitat will readily recover through natural regeneration. Source: ERM (2012)

3.2.2 Species

The significance of potential impacts to fauna has been evaluated taking the following factors into

account:

• the magnitude of both positive and negative effects, as determined by intensity, frequency and extent;

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• the vulnerability / sensitivity of the species (receptor) to the change caused by the development;

• its ability to recover, considering both fragility and resilience; and

• the value, in nature conservation and ecological terms, of affected receptors including species, populations, communities, habitats and ecosystems.

3.2.2.1 Vulnerability / Sensitivity Criteria for Species

Table 3-2 presents the criteria used to evaluate vulnerability / sensitivity of species along the

route.

Table 3-2 Evaluation of Vulnerability/Sensitivity of Species Importance Low Medium High Criteria Protection status

Not protected or listed Introduced or alien species

• Listed as Vulnerable (VU), Conservation Dependant (CD), Near Threatened (NT) or Least Concern (LC) on Global IUCN Red List. • Nationally Protected Species • Annex III species listed on the

Bern Convention • Listed as VU, NT, LC, in the

Red Data Book of Greece • Species either listed as Data

Deficient (DD), or Not Evaluated (NE) at a Global or National level for which Conservation is likely to be required

• Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) or Endangered (EN) on either Global IUCN list or on National Red List;

• Decreasing number of species listed as VU or lower in the Greek Red Data Book.

• Listed as Rare, Threatened or Endangered by IUCN.

• Annex II species listed on the Bern Convention

• Annex II,IV species listed on the EU Habitats Directive

• Annex I listed species of the Birds Directive

Conservation status

Common/ abundant

• A species common globally but rare in Greece

• Rare or population in decline. • Locally endemic or locally distinct

subpopulations. • At the limits of its range. • Species subject to an active

management program • Groups that have been or are under

active scientific study.

• Protected as above

Source: ERM (2012)

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3.2.2.2 Magnitude of Impact Criteria for Species

The magnitude of impact is a combination of several factors, including:

• the spatial extent over which the impact is experienced;

• the extent to which habitat relied upon by the species is impacted (as evaluated under ‘Habitats’ in Section 3.2.1);

• the population or proportion thereof affected;

• the duration of the impact and / or the extent to which it is repeated;

• the magnitude of the aspect (e.g. noise, light, number of vehicle movements);

• the size of the footprint in the context of the wider range over which a species lives;

• the scale of change induced (i.e. to water quality); and

• the extent to which a new physical or chemical feature is introduced to the environment (e.g. the size of a structure or the toxicity of a chemical).

Criteria that have been used to assess the magnitude of ecological impacts (based on Duinker

and Beanlands 1986) are given in Box 3-2.

Box 3 - 2 Magnitude of Impact Criteria for Species

A Large Magnitude Impact affects an entire population or species in sufficient magnitude to cause a decline in

abundance and /or change in distribution beyond which natural recruitment (reproduction, immigration from unaffected

areas) will not return that population or species, or any population or species dependent upon it, to its former level

within several generations*. A large magnitude impact to a species may also adversely affect the integrity of a site,

habitat or ecosystem. A large magnitude secondary impact may also affect a subsistence or commercial resource use

(e.g. fisheries) to the degree that the well-being of the user is affected over a long term.

A Medium Magnitude Impact affects a portion of a population and may bring about a change in abundance and / or

distribution over one or more generations*, but does not threaten the integrity of that population or any population

dependent on it. A medium magnitude impact may also affect the ecological functioning of a site, habitat or ecosystem

but without adversely affecting its overall integrity.

The size of the consequence is also important. A medium magnitude impact multiplied over a wide area will be

regarded as large. A short term effect upon the well-being of resource users may also constitute a secondary medium

impact.

A Small Magnitude Impact affects a specific group of localized individuals within a population over a short time period

(one generation* or less), but does not affect other trophic levels or the population itself.

[*Note: These are generations of the animal/plant species under consideration.]

Source: ERM (2012)

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4 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT OF GR 1150001 AND GR 1150010 NATURA 2000 SITES

4.1 Introduction

This section presents the Appropriate Assessment of the Natura 2000 sites GR1150001 SPA of

Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis kai nisos Thasopoula and GR1150010 SAC of Delta

Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis, evryteri perioxi kai paraktia zoni, which have been

designated through the screening process (refer to Table 1-1) as sites potentially affected by the

proposed project activities, given that they are crossed by the proposed pipeline route. Figure 4-1

imprints the area covered by the designated sites as well as their location.

The EU Habitats Directive contains lists of habitats (Annex I) and species (Annex II) for which

Special Areas of Conservation must be established by Member States. These are referred to as

‘Qualifying Interests’. Similarly, Birds Directive contains a list of important birds’ species (Annex I)

and other migratory birds’ species for which Special Protection Zones need to be established.

Therefore this section focuses on the qualifying interests of the site, particular sensitivities and

the conservation objectives. The information to support this description has been sourced from

the following:

• Natura 2000 Standard Data Forms;

• The Greek Habitat Project Natura 2000, Ministry of Agriculture , Ministry of Environment, Commission of European Communities (1996); and

• Determination of compatible activities regarding qualifying species of Special Protection Areas, Ministry of Environment (July 2009).

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Figure 4-1 SAC GR 1150010 & SPA GR 1150001 Area Cover and Location

Source: NCC (2013)

4.2 Baseline Data Collection

A field survey was conducted aiming to provide baseline data for the ESIA on flora, fauna,

vegetation as well as other ecological parameters that may be affected and/or should be

monitored during the construction and operation phases of the project. The ecological field

survey in 2012 (beginning of August and mid-September) and 2013 (April and May) involved

twenty-three (23) scientists who overall spent approximately one hundred and thirty seven (137)

man-days in the field covering the whole distance of the TAP pipeline from the Greek – Turkish

border to Thessaloniki area, collecting field data on terrestrial and freshwater ecology.

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Extensive literature researches before and after the field survey provided important data on the

biogeographical and ecological features of the area. The field survey focused only on certain

elements of the flora, vegetation and fauna along the pipeline. These elements, either taxa or

communities:

• are of strong conservation interest at a European or even international level or are rarities in Greece;

• are considered likely to be impacted during the construction or in some cases the operation of the pipeline;

• provide reliable means to monitor certain environmental aspects of the Project;

• have no taxonomic or biogeographic ambiguities; and

• are feasible to observe and record taking into account the Project needs and constrains.

The mammal survey focused on the potential presence of species of mammals of conservation

interest along the pipeline route. It aimed to evaluate the literature reviews and field recordings so

as to assess whether characteristic habitats of mammals, with emphasis on species

Spermophilus citellus, Canis lupus, Lutra lutra and Canis aureus, could potentially be affected by

the construction and operation of the proposed project. Habitats surveyed and assessed for

these species include:

• Foraging areas

• Resting and breeding sites

• Corridors for movement and dispersal

The bird survey focused on the presence of avian species along the pipeline route. The scope of

was to assess the habitats of birds which could potentially be affected by the TAP project.

Emphasis was given to the study of species listed in Annex I of the 2009/147/EEC Birds

Directive, as well as to regularly occurring migratory birds.

The herpetofauna survey focused on species presence along the pipeline route. The scope of

this survey was to assess the habitat of amphibians and reptiles which could be potentially

affected by the TAP construction. Emphasis was given to the study of species protected by

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national legislation (GG 645/B/2008) and species included in the Annexes II and IV of the EU

Habitats Directive.

The flora and habitat type survey and assessment has focused in the identification and

documentation of populations of plant taxa (species and subspecies) of high conservation

interest (protected, rare, or endemic species) in protected areas along the 500 m zone around

the pipeline route, and mapping of European habitat types (as defined in the Directive

92/43/EEC) along the route, in order to locate habitat types of conservation interest (priority,

protected, rare, threatened or hosting rare and protected species).

The river ecology/ hydrobiology groups worked on all major crossings of the TAP pipeline with

rivers and streams of constant flow. In line with the requirements of the Water Framework

Directive, they measured several physico-chemical parameters and provided quantitative

information to calculate several indices of ecological water quality referring to riparian vegetation,

freshwater fish, macroinvertebrates and diatoms. They have acquired information on the

freshwater fish community at the river crossing points.

4.3 Activities Likely to Affect the Natura 2000 Sites (SAC & SPA)

4.3.1 TAP Project

The pipeline crosses the sites at the northernmost parts of them it, in parallel with the Egnatia

highway, passing mainly through pure agricultural zones, of limited biodiversity interest, that will

not be permanently affected by the project in terms of their function. As shown in Figure 4-2

4.3 km section of the gas pipeline crosses the designated SAC from KP 152.5 to 158, while a

4.2 km section of the pipeline crosses the SPA site form KP 157 to 161.2.

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Figure 4-2 Crossing of TAP through SAC GR 1150010 and SPA GR1150001

Source: NCC (2013)

As mentioned in Section 2.2, the crossing of the Nestos River will be made by trenchless method

in order to generate the least possible impacts to the terrestrial habitats, the river beds and the

river itself from pipeline construction. As seen in Figure 4-3, the pipeline will go underground from

the pipe side (KP 153.3) located within the boundaries of the SAC (right side of the figure) and

will emerge again within the boundaries of the Natura 2000 site at the receiving side west of the

river bed (KP 154) after a 766 m of an underground crossing.

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Figure 4-3 Crossing of Nestos River by Trenchless crossing method

Source: NCC (2013)

Potential impacts to the protected area from the Project will be associated with the construction of

the working areas for the trenchless crossing (HDD) (27,618 m2) and the working strip for the

trenched pipeline section along the western crossing of the TAP through the SAC and SPA. The

total area affected within the Natura 2000 sites is 335,357 m2. However, this area is located on

land currently used for agriculture.

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The most fragile habitats of this crossing are considered to be Nestos river and the surrounding

pasturelands and uncultivated land stripes. Additionally it must be noted that the field surveys

conducted during May 2013 delineated the presence of an important habitat type (Salix alba-

Populus alba galleries) with a good structure at KP 157.1 where project activities can be

performed but with certain limitations.

4.3.2 Other Relevant Projects and Plans

Currently, there are no other projects or plans known to be implemented close to or within the

Natura 2000 site. The area is managed by the Management Body of East Macedonia and

Thrace, whose responsibility to manage and protect the area of the National Park. The

Management Body has many on-going activities but these are related to: the collection and

processing of environmental data concerning the area; conducting studies for the protection,

rehabilitation and the promotion of the area; and raising public awareness on the importance of

the area, plus promoting ecotourism programs, etc.

4.4 Baseline Description of Natura 2000 Sites (SAC and SPA)

4.4.1 General Description of GR 1150010 and GR 1150001

SAC “GR1150010” Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis – evryteri perioxi kai paraktia zoni

• This site is situated in East Macedonia and Thrace and covers an area of 22,484 hectares. It

consists of Nestos Delta and Keramoti lagoons. The nearest to the wetland towns and

villages are Keramoti and Chrysoupolis while Kavala is situated 25 km and Xanthi 16 km

away from the wetland. River banks are sandy with extended softwood and riparian forests.

Moreover, a mosaic of biotopes at the mouth of the river, composed by reedbeds, Tamarix

scrubs, inland as well as large coastal dunes is found. There are several greater lagoons with

salt marshes around, where in the area of Chrysoupolis there are freshwater lakes with

reedbeds and water lilies. There, a rocky off shore islet (island of Thassopoula) is also found.

At the adjacent gorge of Nestos, rich vegetation grows on the steep cliffs and diverse fauna is

provided with shelter. The wetland is important from ornithological point of view because of

the large area it occupies and because of the high diversity of habitat types. It should be

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mentioned that in the arc from Nestos Delta up to Rhodopi Mountain all the vegetation zones

existing in Europe (from Mediterranean up to subalpine grasslands) have been recorded.

Moreover, it is a valuable part of the coastal wetland network of northern Greece. The riparian

forest (the largest riparian forest in Greece) and the coastal area are important for breeding

birds, the lagoons for migrating species and the river for the wintering of many species as

ducks, herons, cormorants, pygmy cormorants, raptors, geese, flamingos, waterfowl and

others.

SPA “GR1150001” Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis kai nisos Thasopoula

• This site is situated in East Macedonia and Thrace and covers an area of 14,624 hectares. It

consists of a large Delta and almost entirely of agricultural land with few freshwater lagoons

separated from the sea by narrow sandy strips. Only a relict area of the previously extended

riparian forest (Kotza Orman woods) remains along the river course near the mouth and the

poplar plantation. In the area of Chrysoupolis there are freshwater lakes with reed beds and

water lilies. In the northern part of the river on the steep cliffs, rich vegetation and diverse

fauna are found. Most of the area of Nestos River is embanked by retaining dykes so that to

be separated from the cultivated land. It is one of the most important wetlands in Greece

because of the large area that it occupies and because of its rich habitat types.

Ornithologically is an important breeding area for waterbirds, birds of prey and other species.

From ichthyological point of view, the wider part of the river mouth especially, is important

spawning and nursery ground for several commercial species.

Additionally both, the SPA and SAC form part of the National Park of East Macedonia and

Thrace, designated with the 44549/17.10.2008 Joint Ministerial Decision (JMD). According to the

JMD’s objectives, the nature and landscape has to be protected, conserved and managed as

natural heritage and valuable natural resources, with great biological, ecological, aesthetic,

scientific, geomorphological and educational value in both terrestrial and aquatic parts of the

region "Nestos Delta wetlands, Lake Vistonida, Lake Ismarida and the wider region".

The National Park has a statutory Management Body which manages and regulates the activities

related to the protected area. Further to the sites it encloses a Ramsar site (Nestos Delta and

adjoining lagoons) and eleven (11) Wildlife Refuges (WRA Periochi Kompsatou, WRA Periochi

Poas-Dixalas, WRA Kotza-Orman Nestou, WRA Mavromati, WRA Elous Lake, WRA Ptelea

Lake, WRA Aliki Lake, WRA Karatza Lake, WRA Xirolimni Lake, WRA Fanari – Porto Lagos,

WRA Vistonida Lake - Lagos). The Ramsar site and most of the Wildlife Refuges are located

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south of the project footprint. With the exception of WRA Kotza-Orman Nestou and WRA

Periochi Kompsatou, all other wildlife refuge areas are located south to the pipeline and are not

crossed.

4.4.2 Designation and Conservation Objectives for the SAC GR 11500010 and SPA GR 1150001

The conservation objectives for a Natura 2000 site are determined under the Habitats Directive

and intend to ensure that the relevant Annex I habitats and Annex II species present on a site are

maintained in a favourable condition.

Article 6(3) of the EU Habitat’s Directive states: “Any plan or project not directly connected with or

necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either

individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate

assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's Conservation Objectives”.

Article 1 states that for the purpose of the Directive "Conservation means a series of

measures required to maintain or restore the natural habitats and the populations of

species of wild fauna and flora at a favourable status…". As stated in Article 2 the overall aim

of the Habitats Directive is to contribute towards ensuring biodiversity through the conservation of

natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora. The measures taken under the Directive are with a

view to ensuring that the species and habitat types covered achieve ‘favourable conservation

status’ and that their long-term survival is secured across their entire natural range within the EU.

Conservation status for natural habitat types is defined in Article 1 (e) as “the sum of the

influences acting on a natural habitat and its typical species that may affect its long-term natural

distribution, structure and functions as well as the long-term survival of its typical species”. The

conservation status is taken as favourable when:

• Its natural range and the areas it covers within that range are stable or increasing; and

• The specific structure and function which are necessary for its long-term maintenance are present and are likely to continue to exist in the foreseeable future;

• The conservation status of typical species that live in these habitat types is favourable as well.

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Conservation status for species is defined in Article 1(i) “as the sum of influences acting on the

species concerned that may affect the long-term distribution and abundance of its populations…”

It is taken as favourable when:

• Populations are maintaining themselves over the long term and are no longer showing signs of continuing decline;

• Their natural range is not being reduced;

• There is and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations on a long-term basis.

The conservation objectives for any Natura 2000 site must be determined at a member state

level. However they have not been established yet by the National competent authorities. As

there is no reference range, and for the purposes of this assessment, the conservation objectives

provided are based on a working assumption that the current condition is favourable for most

qualifying features.

At this point it is important to mention that in the attempt to identify the conservation objectives of

the Natura 2000 sites all the criteria defined to L.4014/2011 regarding the maintenance of

species and habitat types in a favourable condition were assessed. These are:

Species and habitats:

• ecological requirements

• conservation status at national and European level

• threats of degradation, destruction and disturbance

• National and European significance for the conservation of biodiversity

• overall coherence of the network «Natura 2000»

Additionally, during conservation objectives’ determination for the sites GR 1150001 and GR

1150010 all directions – obligations deriving from the 44549/17.10.2008 Joint Ministerial Decision

(JMD), which characterizes the wider area as National Park of East Macedonia and Thrace, were

incorporated. According to the JMD’s objectives, the nature and landscape has to be protected,

conserved and managed as natural heritage and valuable natural resources, with great

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biological, ecological, aesthetic, scientific, geomorphological and educational value in both

terrestrial and aquatic parts of the region "Nestos Delta wetlands, Lake Vistonida, Lake Ismarida

and the wider region".

Following all the above directions a designation of the conservation objectives for SPA “GR

1150001 - Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis kai nisos Thasopoula” and the SAC “GR

1150010 - Delta Nestou kai limnothalasses Keramotis, evryteri perioxi kai paraktia zoni” is given

below (Box 4-1, Box 4-2): Box 4-1 Conservation objectives for SPA GR1150001

Objective 1:To maintain the qualifying bird species for which the SPA has been selected, at favourable conservation status: Anser erythropus, Aquila clanga, Aythya nyroca, Burhinus oedicnemus, Calandrella brachydactyla, Casmerodius albus, Ciconia ciconia, Cygnus olor, Dendrocopos syriacus, Falco naumanni, Glareola pratincola, Ixobrychus minutes, Lanius minor, Larus melanocephalus, Numenius tenuirostris, Pelecanus crispus, Phalacrocorax aristotelis, Phalacrocorax carbo, Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Puffinus yelkouan, Sterna albifrons, Vanellus spinosus.

Objective 2: To maintain the bird species listed on the Annex I of the 79/409/ECC directive at a favourable

conservation status: Accipiter brevipes, Acrocephalus melanopogon, Alcedo atthis, Anthus campestris, Aquila chrysaetos, Aquila heliaca, Aquila pomarina, Ardea purpurea, Ardeola ralloides, Asio flammeus, Botaurus stellaris, Branta ruficollis, Bubo bubo, Buteo rufinus, Calonectris diomedea, Caprimulgus europaeus, Charadrius alexandrinus, Charadrius morinellus, Chlidonias hybridus, Chlidonias niger, Ciconia nigra, Circaetus gallicus, Circus aeruginosus, Circus cyaneus, Circus macrourus, Circus pygargus, Coracias garrulus, Cygnus cygnus, Dendrocopos medius, Dryocopus martius, Egretta alba, Egretta garzetta, Emberiza caesia, Falco biarmicus, Falco columbarius, Falco eleonorae, Falco peregrinus, Falco vespertinus, Ficedula albicollis, Ficedula semitorquata, Gallinago media, Gavia arctica, Gelochelidon nilotica, Grus grus, Gyps fulvus, Haliaeetus albicilla, Hieraaetus fasciatus, Hieraaetus pennatus, Himantopus himantopus, Hippolais olivetorum, Hoplopterus spinosus, Lanius collurio, Lanius nubicus, Larus audouinii, Larus genei, Larus minutus, Limosa lapponica, Lullula arborea, Luscinia svecica, Melanocorypha calandra, Mergus albellus, Milvus migrans, Milvus milvus, Neophron percnopterus, Nycticorax nycticorax, Pandion haliaetus, Pelecanus onocrotalus, Pernis apivorus, Phalaropus lobatus, Philomachus pugnax, Phoenicopterus ruber, Picus canus, Platalea leucorodia, Plegadis falcinellus, Pluvialis apricaria, Podiceps auritus, Porzana parva, Porzana porzana, Porzana pusilla, Recurvirostra avosetta, Sterna caspia, Sterna hirundo, Sterna sandvicensis, Tadorna ferruginea, Tringa glareola, Xenus cinereus.

Objective 3: To maintain the regularly occurring migratory birds at favourable conservation status: Accipiter

gentilis, Accipiter nisus, Acrocephalus arundinaceus, Acrocephalus palustris, Acrocephalus schoenobaenus, Acrocephalus scirpaceus, Actitis hypoleucos, Alauda arvensis, Alosa fallax, Anas acuta, Anas clypeata, Anas crecca, Anas penelope, Anas platyrhynchos, Anas querquedula, Anas strepera, Anser albifrons, Anser anser, Anser fabalis, Anthus cervinus, Anthus pratensis, Anthus spinoletta, Anthus trivialis, Apus apus, Apus melba, Apus pallidus, Ardea cinerea, Arenaria interpres, Aythya ferina, Aythya fuligula, Aythya marila, Bucephala clangula, Buteo buteo, Buteo lagopus, Calidris alba, Calidris alpina, Calidris canutus, Calidris ferruginea, Calidris minuta, Calidris temminckii, Carduelis spinus, Charadrius dubius, Charadrius hiaticula, Chlidonias leucopterus, Clamator glandarius, Clangula hyemalis, Coccothraustes coccothraustes, Columba oenas, Columba palumbus, Corvus frugilegus, Coturnix coturnix, Cuculus canorus, Cygnus olor, Delichon urbica, Emberiza citrinella, Emberiza melanocephala, Emberiza schoeniclus, Erithacus rubecula, Falco subbuteo, Ficedula hypoleuca, Fringilla coelebs, Fringilla montifringilla, Fulica atra, Gallinago gallinago, Haematopus ostralegus, Hippolais icterina, Hippolais pallida, Hirundo daurica, Hirundo rustica, Jynx torquilla, Lanius excubitor, Lanius senator, Larus canus, Larus fuscus, Larus marinus, Larus ridibundus, Limicola falcinellus, Limosa limosa, Locustella fluviatilis, Locustella luscinioides, Locustella naevia, Luscinia luscinia, Luscinia megarhynchos, Lymnocryptes minimus, Melanitta

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fusca, Melanitta nigra, Mergus serrator, Merops apiaster, Motacilla alba, Motacilla cinerea, Motacilla flava, Muscicapa striata, Netta rufina, Numenius arquata, Numenius phaeopus, Oenanthe hispanica, Oenanthe isabellina, Oenanthe oenanthe, Oriolus oriolus, Otus scops, Panurus biarmicus, Passer hispaniolensis, Phalacrocorax carbo, Phalacrocorax carbo, Phoenicurus ochruros, Phoenicurus phoenicurus, Phylloscopus bonelli, Phylloscopus collybita, Phylloscopus sibilatrix, Phylloscopus trochilus, Pluvialis squatarola, Podiceps cristatus, Podiceps grisegena, Podiceps nigricollis, Prunella modularis, Ptyonoprogne rupestris, Puffinus yelkouan, Regulus regulus, Riparia riparia, Saxicola rubetra, Scolopax rusticola, Somateria mollissima, Stercorarius parasiticus, Streptopelia turtur, Sturnus roseus, Sturnus vulgaris, Sylvia atricapilla, Sylvia borin, Sylvia cantillans, Sylvia communis, Sylvia curruca, Sylvia hortensis, Tachybaptus ruficollis, Tadorna tadorna, Tringa erythropus, Tringa nebularia, Tringa ochropus, Tringa stagnatilis, Tringa totanus, Turdus iliacus, Turdus philomelos, Turdus pilaris, Upupa epops, Vanellus vanellus.

Objective 4: To maintain a favourable conservation status for the habitats of qualifying birds in order to ensure

their survival and reproduction within the SPA. Objective 5: To maintain the integrity of the Natura 2000 site.

Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150001SDF)

Box 4-2 Conservation objectives for SAC GR1150010 Objective 1:To maintain the Annex I habitat types for which the SAC has been selected at favourable conservation

status: Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time, Estuaries, Coastal lagoons, Annual vegetation of drift lines, Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand, Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi),Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi), Embryonic shifting dunes, Dunes with Euphorbia terracina, Humid dune slacks, Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition - type vegetation, Constantly flowing Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging curtains of Salix and Populus alba, Mediterranean tall humid grasslands of the Molinio-Holoschoenion, Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae), Southern riparian galleries and thickets (Nerio-Tamaricetea and Securinegion tinctoriae).

Objective 2: To maintain the Annex II habitats for which the SCA has been selected at favourable conservation

status: Emberiza melanocephala, Emberiza schoeniclus, Erithacus rubecula, Falco subbuteo, Ficedula hypoleuca, Fringilla coelebs, Fringilla montifringilla, Fulica atra, Gallinago gallinago, Haematopus ostralegus, Hippolais pallida, Hirundo daurica, Hirundo rustica, Lanius senator, Larus fuscus, Larus ridibundus, Limicola falcinellus, Limosa limosa, Locustella luscinioides, Luscinia megarhynchos, Lymnocryptes minimus, Mergus serrator, Merops apiaster, Motacilla alba, Motacilla cinerea, Motacilla flava, Muscicapa striata, Netta rufina, Numenius arquata, Numenius phaeopus, Oenanthe isabellina, Oenanthe oenanthe, Oriolus oriolus, Otus scops, Panurus biarmicus, Passer hispaniolensis, Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis, Phoenicurus ochruros, Phoenicurus phoenicurus, Phylloscopus sibilatrix, Phylloscopus trochilus, Pluvialis squatarola, Podiceps cristatus, Podiceps grisegena, Podiceps nigricollis, Prunella modularis, Puffinus puffinus, Regulus regulus, Riparia riparia, Saxicola rubetra, Scolopax rusticola, Streptopelia turtur, Sturnus roseus, Sturnus vulgaris, Sylvia atricapilla, Sylvia borin, Sylvia cantillans, Sylvia communis, Sylvia curruca, Sylvia hortensis, Tachybaptus ruficollis, Tadorna tadorna, Tringa erythropus, Tringa nebularia, Tringa ochropus, Tringa stagnatilis, Tringa totanus, Turdus iliacus, Turdus philomelos, Turdus pilaris, Upupa epops, Vanellus vanellus

Objective 3: To maintain the regularly occurring migratory birds at favourable conservation status: Bombina

variegata, Caretta caretta, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Elaphe situla, Emys orbicularis, Lutra lutra, Mauremys caspica, Testudo graeca, Testudo hermanni, Triturus karelinii, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Canis aureus, Canis lupus, Cisticola juncidis, Coluber caspius, Coronella austriaca, Cyrtodactylus kotschyi, Elaphe longissima, Felis silvestris, Hyla arborea, Lacerta viridis, Malpolon monspessulanus, Martes foina, Meles meles, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Ophisaurus apodus, Pancratium maritimum, Pelobates syriacus, Phasianus colchicus, Pipistrellus nathusii, Podarcis taurica, Rana dalmatina, Rana graeca, Rana ridibunda, Salamandra salamandra, Salvinia natans, Sus scrofa, Triturus vulgaris, Vipera ammodytes.

Objective 4: To maintain the integrity of the Natura 2000 site.

Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF)

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4.4.2.1 Habitats Directive Site - SAC GR1150010

Table 4-1 provides information regarding the Annex I habitats of Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC)

of the SAC, their coverage and presence is demonstrated.

At this point and prior to any further analysis the data presented in Table 4-1 from the Ministry of

Environment, Energy and Climate Change were carried out in 2001. These data are outdated

and therefore suffer from partial lack of validation. As a result some of the provided by the

Ministry limits of the habitat types are not accurate and/or some of the habitat types may not exist

at all in the designated sites. This was verified during the field surveys performed during May

2013. The actual habitat types that fall within the 500 m study area and are crossed by the

working strip are presented in Table 4-1, also2.

Therefore, the appropriate assessment has been based on the updated habitat types that are

presented in Table 4-1.

The proposed pipeline route will cross European habitat type 3280 (Constantly flowing

Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging curtains of Salix and Populus

alba) and European habitat type 92A0 Salix alba and Populus alba galleries and in the minimum

possible area given that the HDD crossing technique will be applied.

Additionally, the pipeline crosses the habitats (1020) Arable Land, (1030) Reforestations, (5160)

South-eastern sub-Mediterranean deciduous thickets, (72A0) Reed beds and (924A) Eastern

white oak woods and balkanic thermophilous oak woods, which are not listed in Annex I of the

Council Directive.

Table 4-1 Habitat types present on the site according. Habitat code

Description of Habitats Total coverage within site, accor-ding to the Minis-

try of Environment data of 2001 (ha)

Total coverage within the 500 m study area, as

validated during field surveys in May 2013 (ha)

Habitat within construction working area (ha)

Habitats included in Annex I of council Directive 92/43/EEC 1150 Lagoons 978 - Not crossed

1210 Annual vegetation of drift lines 39 - Not crossed

1310 Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand

46 - Not crossed

1410 Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi)

2,147 - Not crossed

1420 Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic 642 - Not crossed

2 The data from the ministry have remained for consistency purposes.

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Habitat code






halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi)

2110 Embryonic shifting dunes 10.5 - Not crossed

2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria ("white dunes")

28 - Not crossed

2190 Humid dune slacks 14 - Not crossed

2220 Dunes with Euphorbia terracina 203 - Not crossed

3150 Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition - type vegetation

12 - Not crossed

3170* Mediterannean temporary ponds 0.05 - Not crossed

3280 Constantly flowing Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging curtains of Salix and Populus alba

739 19.12 1.03

6210* Semi-natural dry grasslands on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia) (important orchid)

76.5 Not crossed

6420 Mediterranean tall humid grasslands of the Molinio-Holoschoenion

840 Not crossed

6450 Greek hyper-Mediterranean humid grasslands

0.21 Not crossed

91E 0* Residual alluvial forests (Alnion glutinoso-incanae)

372 Not crossed

91F 0 Mixed oak-elm-ash forests of great rivers

98.4 Not crossed

92A0 Salix alba and Populus alba galleries 573 12.11 2.9

92D0 Southern riparian galleries and thickets (Nerio-Tamaricetea and Securinegion tinctoriae)

255 Not crossed

Other habitats not included in Annex I of council Directive 92/43/EEC 1020 Arable Land 10,740 204.75 16.99

1021 Abandoned arable land 106 Not crossed

1030 Reforestation 1,052 2.04 0.11

1050 Settlement 113 Not crossed

1061 Unvegetated sand bed 36 Not crossed

1110 Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time

3,415 Not crossed

1130 Estuaries 22 Not crossed

119A Unvegetated soft bottom 1,258 Not crossed

32B0 Euro-Siberian annual river mud communities

0.04 Not crossed

5160 South-eastern sub-mediterranean deciduous thickets

10.73 0.97

5350 Pseudomaquis 45 1.62 Not crossed

6290 Mediterranean subnitrophilous grasslands

1.7 Not crossed

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Habitat code






72A0 Reed Beds 537 0.56 0,65

924A Eastern white oak woods and balkanic thermophilous oak woods

0.4 0.61 0.21

Source: Compiled by NCC (2013) (field survey May 2013)

Habitat 92A0 ‘Salix alba and Populus alba galleries’

Habitat 92A0 consists of riparian forests of the Mediterranean and Black Sea basins dominated

by Salix alba and Populus alba. Such habitat develops close to riverbeds and is seasonally

covered by water (Dafis et al., 2001 and EC, 2007); occurring in scattered areas in Greece

(Dimopoulos et al., 2001). Along the banks of Nestos River extensive, species-rich stands have

developed with Populus nigra, Salix eleagnos, S. amplexicaulis, S. purpurea, Alnus glutinosa,

Platanus orientalis, Fraxinus angustifolia, Juglans regia, Ulmus glabra, U. minor, Cornus

sanguinea, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra etc.

Habitat 3280 ‘Constantly flowing Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging curtains of Salix and Populus alba’

Habitat 3280 is formed by Nitrophilous annual and perennial grasses and reeds in the alluvial

formations of Mediterranean river banks, with Paspalum paspaloides, P. vaginatum, Polypogon

viridis (=Agrostis semivericillata), Cyperus fuscus and Salix spp and Populus alba galleries. This

habitat may also cover floodplain areas in addition to river banks.

The following figure (Figure 4-4) presents the habitat type’s (according to 92/43/EEC Directive)

distribution within the SAC in the intervention zone of TAP so as to establish which habitat types

may be directly influenced by the proposed development. It s repeated that the presented habitat

distribution is based on ground-truthed data retrieved during the field surveys of May 2013.

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Figure 4-4 Location of Habitats in the Vicinity of the Project (River Nestos Crossing)

Source: NCC (2013)

4.4.2.2 Birds Directive Site - SPA GR1150001

The site is classified as a Special Protected Area (SPA). It has been selected and designated for

species listed in Annex I of the Directive, as well as for regular migratory species, while it further

supports habitats associated with the particular species in terms of their ecological requirements

(e.g. mating, breeding and feeding and for migratory species also for moulting, roosting,

wintering). The bird species that lead to the designation of this site as an SPA are: Anser

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erythropus, Aquila clanga, Aythya nyroca, Burhinus oedicnemus, Calandrella brachydactyla,

Casmerodius albus, Ciconia ciconia, Cygnus olor, Dendrocopos syriacus, Falco naumanni,

Glareola pratincola, Ixobrychus minutes, Lanius minor, Larus melanocephalus, Numenius

tenuirostris, Pelecanus crispus, Phalacrocorax aristotelis, Phalacrocorax carbo, Phalacrocorax

pygmeus, Puffinus yelkouan, Sterna albifrons, Vanellus spinosus.

4.4.3 Qualifying Features / Species of the Protected Sites

Table 4-2 presents the ‘qualifying features/species’ for both the SPA and SCI site, including

Annex I (of Council Directive 2009/147/EC) bird species that are reportedly present at the site

throughout the year or using the area as a wintering or staging site (Notes are provided at the

end of the table). Table 4-3 gives mammal, amphibian, reptile, and plant species that are listed in

Annex II (of Council Directive 92/43/EEC) and reportedly present within the Natura 2000 site.

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Project Title: Trans Adriatic Pipeline – TAP GPL00-ASP-642-Y-TAE-0075 Rev.: 01 Document Title: Integrated ESIA Greece

Annex 8.10 - Appropriate Assessment for GR1150001 and GR1150010

Table 4-2 Qualifying Features/ Species for SPA GR1150001 and SAC GR1150010: Bird Species included in Annex I of Council Directive 2009/147/EC DE Name Conservation status Population Habitat and territory Status within

Greece Status within Natura 2000 site Resident Migratory

Breed Winter Stage

A402 Accipiter brevipes

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES II/A, RDB-Greece: NE, IUCN: LC

P Tree nesting species in riverine forests or poplar plantations, usually in close distance to water resources (rivers, ponds, inland lakes etc.)

Fairly widespread in Thrace and Macedonia, becomes rarer to southern parts of the mainland

The species is nesting in the riverine forests and poplar plantations of Nestos river.

A293 Acrocephalus melanopogon

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES II/A, RDB-Greece: VU, IUCN: LC

P? P Breeds in reedbeds with a mixture of old and annual (new) stems and with stabilized water levels though the year. Therefore, inland lakes are preferred from coastal wetlands where the water is drought at the summer. Breeds in the reeds usually in low height close to the water level.

Scarce or rare and localized breeder in few wetlands of Northern Greece. Fairly common winter visitor.

Common winter visitor. Potential breeder in inland reedbeds and lakes of Nestos area.

A089 Aquila pomarina 2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES II/A, RDB-Greece: EN, IUCN: LC

P Nests on mature trees in riverine forests or other forests e.g. coniferous, in close association with large wetlands and rivers.

Thrace, Macedonia, and small populations at Thessaly, Sterea Ellada.

Expected to nest on trees in the riverine forest of Nestos and Kompsatos river.

A133 Burhinus oedicnemus

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES I, RDB-Greece: NT, IUCN: LC

P Nests on sandy or rocky terrain in open areas with low vegetation coverage. In Greece it is mostly located in coastal wetlands with dunes.

Widespread, especially Thessaly.

Expected to nest in open areas, with low vegetation and along Kompsatos river.

A224 Caprimulgus europaeus

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES II/A, RDB-Greece: LC, IUCN:

P Ground nesting, occupies unvegetated gaps in lowland heath and conifer forest clearings, prefer glades, meadows and other open or

Widespread in mainland.

Expected to nest in unvegetated gaps in lowland heathlands and grasslands in the site.

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DE Name Conservation status Population Habitat and territory Status within Greece

Status within Natura 2000 site Resident Migratory

Breed Winter Stage LC lightly forested zones

A031 Ciconia ciconia 2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, RDB-Greece: VU, IUCN: LC

P Tree and mostly building nesting species in Greece. Breeds in open farmland areas with access to marshy wetlands.

Widespread in northern (Macedonia and Thrace) and central Greece (Thessaly). Rarer breeder in the islands and southern mainland.

Expect to nest in trees and, mainly building and electricity poles.

A030 Ciconia nigra 2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, RDB-Greece: EN, IUCN: LC

P Tree and cliff nesting species. Breeds in forested areas usually far from human villages or facilities and in close association with freshwater resources such as lakes, wetlands or rivers.

Mainly northern Greece, small population.

Expected to nest in trees and rocky areas. The species is more frequently observed during migration.

A080 Circaetus gallicus

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES II/A, RDB-Greece: NT, IUCN: LC

P Tree-nesting species. Forages in intensive and non-intensive agricultural land and grassland. Nests in old trees of mature deciduous or most commonly coniferous forests in semimountainous or mountainous area.

Widespread, small population.

Expected to nest in trees. Birds seen in the area are breeders in the hills in close distance from the site boundaries.

A081 Circus aeroginosus

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES II/A, RDB-Greece: VU, IUCN: LC

P Ground nesting species, in inland freshwater or coastal wetlands. Nests usually in large extended reedbeds.

Scarce and local resident, breeding in a few wetlands of northern Greece.

Expect to nest in extended reedbeds along the area.

A231 Coracias garrulus

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, RDB-Greece:VU, IUCN: NT

P The species breeds throughout temperate, steppe and Mediterranean zones characterized by reliable warm summer weather. It prefers

Thrace, Macedonia and small populations at Thessaly, Sterea Ellada and some

Expected to nest in open areas, with low vegetation.

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Breed Winter Stage lowland open countryside with patches of oak forest, mature pine woodland with heathery clearings, orchards, mixed farmland, river valleys, and plains with scattered thorny or leafy trees. In Europe, mainly breeds in abandoned Green Woodpecker cavities in white poplar, especially in riparian forests, less often in Salix spp., or infrequently in natural cavities of planes, walls or sandbanks. They mostly forage in agricultural habitats, especially meadows (May and August) and in cereals in June-July. Fallow land is always favoured. Vineyards can be attractive if the soil keeps some vegetation cover Hedgerows are essential perches while looking for prey.

large islands, expect Crete.

A429 Dendrocopos syriacus

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, RDB-Greece: NE, IUCN: LC

P Tree nesting, on deciduous or evergreen forests in association with agricultural land. This species has no nest-fidelity meaning that usually it builds a nest per breeding season.

Thrace, Macedonia, Thessaly and Sterea Ellada.

Expected to nest in scattered trees or woodlands in agricultural areas.

A075 Haliaeetus albicilla

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention I/II, CITES I, RDB-Greece: CR, IUCN:

P 2 The species requires large and open expanses of lakes, coastal or riverine valleys, nearby to undisturbed cliffs or open stands of large, old-

Very small and localized population at Thrace, and Macedonia.

Expected to nest on mature riverine trees along Nestos river.

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Breed Winter Stage LC growth trees for nesting. Its

diet consists of vertebrates (fish, mammals and especially birds), from marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments.

A092 Hieraaetus pennatus

2009/147/EC: Annex II/2, Bern Convention III, Bonn Convention II, CITES II/A, RDB-Greece: EN, IUCN: LC

P Tree nesting species in coniferous or deciduous forests in close association with non intensively agricultural fields or open meadows

Widespread in North Greece but rather localized

Usually observed during migration in the study area

A338 Lanius collurio 2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, RDB-Greece: NE,IUCN: LC

P Tree-bush nesting species. Breeds on heaths and meadows with thorny bushes, open land with bushes or scattered trees, including hedges in non-intensive arable land.


Expected to nest in open country, grassland, scrubland anywhere in the route.

A339 Lanius minor 2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, RDB-Greece: NT,IUCN: LC

6 to 10 Tree nesting, Meadows with bare ground, arable land pastureland, grassland (breeding). This species has no nest-fidelity meaning that usually it builds a nest per breeding season.


Expected to nest in open country, grassland, scrubland anywhere in the route.

A072 Pernis apivorus 2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention II, Bonn Convention II, CITES I/A, RDB-Greece: LC, IUCN: LC

P Tree nesting species, usually in mature broadleaved forests and woodlands.

Widespread small or medium population.

Expected to nest in trees during breeding season more frequently observed during migration period.

A151 Philomachus pugnax

2009/147/EC: Annex I, Bern Convention III, Bonn Convention II,

P Saltmarshes or freshwater wetlands in shallow water

Widespread migratory species in various sized

Mostly observed during spring and autumn migration

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Breed Winter Stage IUCN: LC wetlands

Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010SDF)

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Table 4-3 Qualifying Features/ Species for SPA GR1150001 and SAC GR1150010: Other Species Listed in Annex II of Council Directive 92/43/EEC DE Name Conservation Status Recorded

in area during field study

Resident Status in Greece Status within the Natura 2000 site

Habitat and territory

1193 Bombina variegata

IUCN - LC, Red Data Book Greece - LC, Appendix II of the Bern Convention, Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats Directive

NO P Small water bodies (e.g. ponds) in middle and high elevations

Potentially could be found in small water bodies (e.g. ponds) in middle and high elevations

Small water bodies (e.g. ponds) in middle and high elevations

1224 Caretta caretta IUCN - NT, Red Data Book Greece - NT, Appendix II of the Bern Convention Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats DirectiveNational Legislation (Presidential Decree 67/1981)

NO P In all marine territories of Greece (Aegean, Ionian, Cretan)

Potentially could be sporadically present during the breeding season for egg deposition

In all marine territories of Greece (Aegean, Ionian, Cretan).

1279 Elaphe quatuorlineata

IUCN - NT, Red Data Book Greece - LC, Appendix II of the Bern Convention Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats DirectiveNational Legislation (Presidential Decree 67/1981)

NO P Open areas and grasslands, maquis and phrygana

Potentially could be present in all agricultural areas, maquis and phrygana

Open areas and grasslands, maquis and phrygana

1293 Zamenis situlus

IUCN - LC, Red Data Book Greece - LC, Appendix II of the Bern Convention Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats DirectiveNational Legislation (Presidential Decree 67/1981)

NO P Deciduous forests, bush lands, stony areas, maquis

Potentially could be present in the deciduous forests, bush lands, stony areas, maquis

Deciduous forests, bush lands, stony areas, maquis

1220 Emys orbicularis

IUCN - NT, Red Data Book Greece - NT, Appendix II of the Bern Convention Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats Directive National Legislation (Presidential Decree 67/1981)IUCN: NT Red Data Book Greece NT

YES P Water bodies like lakes, small rivers, swamps and ponds in low and middle elevations

Water bodies like lakes, small rivers, swamps and ponds

Water bodies like lakes, small rivers, swamps and ponds in low and middle elevations

1222 Mauremys rivulata

IUCN - LC, Red Data Book Greece - LC, Annexes II of the EU Natural Habitats Directive

YES R Water bodies like lakes, small rivers and ponds in low and middle elevations

Water bodies like lakes, small rivers and ponds

Water bodies like lakes, small rivers and ponds in low and middle elevations

1219 Testudo graeca

IUCN - NT, Red Data Book Greece - LC, Appendix II of the Bern Convention Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats DirectiveNational Legislation (Presidential Decree 67/1981)

YES P Open areas and forest meadows

Present in the open areas

Open areas and forest meadows

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DE Name Conservation Status Recorded in area during field study



1217 Testudo hermanni

IUCN - NT, Red Data Book Greece - VU, Appendix II of the Bern Convention Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats Directive National Legislation (Presidential Decree 67/1981) Vulnerable species according to the Greek Red Data Book

YES P Terrestrial turtle found in greater numbers at lower and warmer open areas. In restricted forested areas population density is greatly reduced. The species spawn in open sunny areas such as pastures, abandoned crop and the large forest clearings.

Open areas and forest meadows

Terrestrial turtle found in greater numbers at lower and warmer open areas. In restricted forested areas population density is greatly reduced. The species spawn in open sunny areas such as pastures, abandoned crop and the large forest clearings.

1171 Triturus arntzeni

IUCN - LC, Red Data Book Greece - NT, Appendix II of the Bern Convention Annexes II and IV of the EU Natural Habitats Directive

NO P In ponds in middle and high elevations

Potentially could be found in the ponds

In ponds in middle and high elevations

Ophrys sp. P.D. 67/81 YES 1 individual

Rare Salix alba-Populus alba galleries

Ruscus aculeatus

Annex II of Council Directive 92/43/EEC YES 10 individuals

Very common Eastern white oak woods and balkanic thermophilous oak woods

Verbascum phoeniceum ssp. flavidum

Balcan endemic YES 2 individuals

Common Eastern white oak woods and balkanic thermophilous oak woods

Pancratium maritimum

Annex II of Council Directive 92/43/EEC NO

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1355 Lutra Lutra IUCN: NT Red Data Book Greece EN No signs of Otter (Lutra lutra) however species expected since cover and food are abundant.

P Widespread in mainland, also in some islands. More frequent in Northern Greece

Potentially could be found in river banks and in coastal areas in the north of the site

This species inhabits a wide variety of aquatic habitats, including highland and lowland lakes, rivers, streams, marshes, swamp forests and coastal areas independent of their size, origin or latitude. In most parts of its range, its occurrence is correlated with bank side vegetation showing importance of vegetation to otters. Otters in different regions may depend upon differing features of the habitat, but to breed, they need holes in the river banks, cavities among tree roots, piles of rock, wood or debris. The Eurasian otters are closely connected to a linear living space. Most portion of their activity is concentrated to a narrow strip on either side of the interface between water and land.

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Canis aureus IUCN: LC Red Data Book Greece EN YES P Sporadic. Now only confined to a few clusters grouped into 7 sub-areas (Peloponnese, Fokida, Samos, Serres, Chalkidiki, Vistonidas-Nestos and Evros) as well as the rest of Greece.

Potentially present as the wider area of Nestos holds one of the largest subpopulation in the country.

The species inhabits in habitats such as crop and small mosaic Mediterranean scrub and wetlands with dense stands of vegetation, respectively in the Southern and Northern Greece.

Canis lupus IUCN: LC Red Data Book Greece: VU, Appendix II of the Bern Convention and greek populations south of the 39th parallel are included in Annexes II and IV of Directive 92/43/EEC. Populations north of the 39th parallel are included in Annex V. Under CITES protection

NO P Mainly found in lowland, hilly and mountainous areas and where food availability is high and continuous. Greece hold the 3.3% of the population of species at a European Level distributed to an area of more than 40,000km².

Potentially present The habitat of the species is essentially that of his diet. Therefore it inhabits in lowland, hilly and mountainous areas and where food availability is high and continuous.


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At this point it is essential to notice the importance to conserve/ preserve the habitats which

support the qualifying features of the SPA, that is those habitats that allow the presence of the

key species of birds defined in its designation as SPA (the key aim of the Birds Directive is to

take special measures to conserve the habitats of birds in order to ensure their survival and

reproduction within the E.U).

The figure below (Figure 4-5) shows the important habitats for priority animal species of the site

within the wider area of Nestos (SPA and SAC Natura 2000 sites) and includes also the location

of the proposed TAP’s route. Because this map was produced by the Special Environmental

study which led to the designation of the wider area to a National Park it is considered a very

accurate source of information for the objectives of this Appropriate Assessment.

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Figure 4-5 Ecosystem Map of Nestos Delta, Complex of Lakes Vistonida and Ismarida and the Wider Area

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Source: Specific Environmental Assessment of "Nestos Delta wetlands, Lake Vistonida, Lake Ismarida and the wider region"

As presented in the map (Figure 4-5), no overlaps between the TAP’s working strip and the

important habitats for fauna of the protected areas (SPA and SAC) can be identified. In fact, as

estimated the closest distance of TAP to a main habitat is 3.7 km and it regards breeding habitat

for bird species. Additionally no associated components of the project will be constructed within

the site.

4.4.4 Vulnerability of the Protected Sites

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Both SAC and SPA are vulnerable to typical wetland threats such as drainage schemes,

extraction of minerals and peat, overfishing, tourism, siltation, expansion of agricultural land and

pesticide discharges from intensive agriculture, toxic pollutants from industrial waste, hunting,

uncontrolled development and infrastructures with inadequate planning.

4.5 Assessment of Impacts on Habitats types due to Project Activities

4.5.1 Identification of Potential Impacts

Potential impacts on the Annex I Habitat types of SAC GR 1150010 “Delta Nestou kai

limnothalasses Keramotis, evryteri perioxi kai paraktia zoni” were identified in relation to the

project’s constructional and operational requirements.

Table 4-4 Potential Impacts on habitats due to Project Activities

Receptor Project phase Activity Impact

Habitat types listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive

Construction Working strip clearance Clearance of HDD working sites Trenching Backfilling Machinery operation Reinstatement

Temporary, short term habitat loss along the working strip. Temporary, short term habitat loss at the working sites of HDD. Temporary, short term habitat loss along the working strip in open habitats. Temporary fragmentation of open habitats by the working strip. Reinstatement of the original habitats along the working strip in line with the restriction imposed by the PPS.

Operation and maintenance

Regular clearance of the PPS

No significant impact in agricultural habitats.

Decommissioning No activities foreseen No impacts foreseen.

Safety and non-routine events

Repair activities in case of leak or damage by third-party activities

Impacts similar to construction activities.

Source: Compiled by NCC (2013)

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4.5.2 Impact Assessment

4.5.2.1 Habitat Loss

According to Figure 4-4 TAP’s working strip intersects with, types of habitats which are listed in

Annex I of the 92/43/EEC Habitats Directive. As explained above no intersection of TAP with any

priority habitat type is expected. In addition, as a precautionary approach prior to any

construction works, a site survey will be carried out in order to investigate the presence of priority

habitat types and specifically the presence of 91EO*Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and

Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) and prevent any activities that

may cause impacts to its distribution and status if the presence is verified.

During construction activities habitat loss will be limited to the HDD working sites and the 38 m

working strip along TAP’s route within the sites. As has been presented in Figure 4-4 and is

tabulated in Table 4-5, the most important habitat types that will be affected by the project are

92A0 (Salix alba and Populus alba galleries) – corresponding to 4% of the 38 m working strip,

and 3280 (Constantly flowing Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging

curtains of Salix and Populus alba) – corresponding to 3% of the 38 m working strip.

Nevertheless, almost 81% of the affected land cover is arable land (1020). During operation only

the 8 m Pipeline Protection Strip will remain clear of deep rooted species. All the rest of the

construction strip will be reinstated to its formed condition.

Table 4-5 Habitats affected by Project components From KP To KP Length

(km) Habitat Code

Description

152.700 153.420 0.72 1020 Arable Land

153.420 153.456 0.036 5160 South-eastern sub-Mediterranean deciduous thickets

153.456 153.552 0.096 1020 Arable Land

153.552 153.782 0.23 3280 Constantly flowing Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging curtains of Salix and Populus alba

153.782 153.836 0.054 92A0 Salix alba and Populus alba galleries

153.836 153.870 0.034 3280 Constantly flowing Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging curtains of Salix and Populus alba


154.009 154.731 0.722 1020 Arable Land

154.731 154.798 0.067 924A Salix alba and Populus alba galleries

154.798 155.006 0.208 1020 Arable Land


155.044 155.305 0.261 1020 Arable Land

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From KP To KP Length (km)

Habitat Code

Description

155.305 155.345 0.04 1030 Reforestations

155.345 155.497 0.152 1020 Arable Land


155.614 156.717 1.103 1020 Arable Land


156.73 157.041 0.311 1020 Arable Land


157.086 157.432 0.346 1020 Arable Land


157.473 157.803 0.33 1020 Arable Land


157.835 158.107 0.272 1020 Arable Land

158.107 158.140 0.033 924A Eastern white oak woods and balkanic thermophilous oak woods

158.14 158.154 0.014 1020 Arable Land


158.179 158.210 0.031 1020 Arable Land


158.310 158.407 0.097 1020 Arable Land


158.414 158.563 0.149 1020 Arable Land


158.632 158.637 0.005 1020 Arable Land


158.667 158.727 0.06 1020 Arable Land


158.868 158.929 0.061 72A0 Reedbeds

159.047 159.167 0.12 1020 Arable Land


159.310 159.419 0.109 1020 Arable Land


159.485 159.495 0.01 1020 Arable Land


159.503 159.609 0.106 1020 Arable Land


159.620 159.677 0.057 1020 Arable Land


159.761 160.474 0.713 1020 Arable Land


160.518 160.701 0.183 1020 Arable Land


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From KP To KP Length (km)

Habitat Code

Description

160.732 160.958 0.226 1020 Arable Land


160.989 161.215 0.226 1020 Arable Land

8.397 Total Length through the protected areas Source: Asprofos (2013)

During construction activities the vegetation within the working strip and HDD working sites will

be cleared. The impact is temporary, as the working strip and the working areas for HDD will be

reinstated to its preconstruction condition. The affected areas are, in both sides agricultural areas

(see Figure 4-3 and Figure 4-4). Therefore the impact is considered as not significant.

During operation there will be no habitat loss within the protected area.

4.5.2.2 Habitat Fragmentation

The clearance and fencing of the working strip during the construction phase will result in a

temporary fragmentation of habitat. The fragmentation is expected in the agricultural areas

crossed by the pipeline and the HDD rigs, but will have a short duration (estimated to be

approximately 2 months). The anticipated impact is therefore considered not significant.

During operation, any agricultural areas will be restored and no additional impacts are

anticipated.

4.6 Assessment of Impacts on Annex II Species due to Project Activities


Potential impacts on the Annex II species for both SAC GR 11500010 and SPA GR 1150001

were identified in relation to the project’s constructional and operational requirements.

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Table 4-6 Potential Impacts on species due to Project Activities Receptor Project phase Activity Impact

Species listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive

Construction Working strip clearance Clearance of HDD working sites Trenching Backfilling Machinery operation Reinstatement Hydrotesting

Loss of individuals Temporary loss of habitats Temporary loss of agricultural habitats in the working strip Temporary fragmentation Temporary loss of foraging habitat Temporary loss of possible breeding habitat Temporary disturbance



No impacts in agricultural land



Repair activities in case of leak or damage by third party activities




4.6.2.1 Habitat Loss

For a species to thrive, the habitat must provide a certain set of environmental and ecological

conditions such as sufficient territory, appropriate cover, necessary food and water, etc.

Habitat loss due to project development could therefore impact the species present within a site.

For the case of the taxa previously indicated, habitat loss will be limited to clearing along the

section of the pipe (i.e. clearing of the vegetation at the HDD working sites for the crossing of

Nestos River and the working strip for the pipeline through the rest of the sites). Given that the

working rig site and strip will be reinstated –in most of its length the current uses are arable

lands- after the completion of the constructional activities, any impacts related to species will be

temporary and short term and therefore considered not significant.

4.6.2.2 Habitat Fragmentation

Construction activities such as clearing of the working strip, excavation, etc. will result in

temporary habitat fragmentation. Habitats which were once continuous may temporary become

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divided into separate fragments and this may result in short term impacts towards the species

supported by the fragmented habitats, especially for mobile species which rely on large habitats.

This may affect localised and vulnerable species such as reptiles, amphibians, small mammals

and birds during the breeding period, which are more susceptible to habitat fragmentation.

However, due to the limited duration of the constructional period and the reinstatement of the

working strip as well as the HDD method that will be performed for the crossing of River Nestos,

it is expected that any fragmentation will not cause any significant patch-size, edge and isolation

effects which may affect the occurrence, density, or reproductive success of animals in a habitat

patch. Therefore any impacts related to species will be short term and highly localized and

therefore is considered as not significant. However specific mitigation measures shall be

performed for the species to ensure connectivity is maintained during the construction works.

A sensitive species that could be affected by the project is the otter (Lutra lutra), a threatened

mammal of high mobility that typically use riparian tree stands and river and stream beds for

shelter and for foraging. However, due to trenchless techniques to be used, no habitat loss is

anticipated in the riparian habitat and therefore no potential impact is foreseen to Lutra lutra

habitat.

Another species that could potentially be affected by the project is the golden jackal (Canis

aureus), which is listed in the SDFs as species of importance for the sites, and as demonstrated

by the literature the wider area of Nestos supports the largest, healthiest and most dynamic

population of the species in Greece. Indeed at least 10 jackal groups were detected NE from

Vistonida Lake during the field survey. As presented in the Baseline Study (Annex 6.5.9) the

section of the pipeline located from KP 154 to KP 159 is one of the 5 key sections for the jackal

identified along the entire pipeline, and therefore specific preventive and mitigation measures

shall be applied to ensure habitat degradation are kept to a minimum and within acceptable

limits. Nevertheless, provided the nature of the habitats cleared and the HDD crossing of the river

and riparian environments, the impact is considered not significant (i.e. no relevant portions of

habitats will be affected apart from open arable lands, which will be fully restored to their

conditions and use, therefore no changes on habitat will occur)

Similarly, no relevant impacts are expected for herpetofauna as farming areas are characterized

by low biodiversity for such species; intensively cultivated and irrigated land, as is the largest part

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of the farming areas crossed by the pipeline, usually supports populations of few and common

species.

Over all, as far as it concerns mammals, amphibians and reptiles species listed on Annex II of the

Council Directive 92/43/EEC and regarding those which can be supported by suitable habitats

within the study zone, it is expected that there will be no significant impacts towards their natural

range and population, as their habitats after the construction can be restored to their previous

condition, i.e. sufficiently large to maintain the populations on a long-term basis.

During operation phase, changes are expected to be negligible as there will be no changes in the

habitats and arable current habitats (arable lands) will be returned to their current status (there

will be no physical barriers along the pipeline during the operation of the pipeline),

4.6.2.3 Disturbance and Loss of Individuals

Determining the magnitude of disturbance effects on wildlife is difficult because impact responses

vary between species and between individuals of a single population. These variable responses

are due to the characteristics of the disturbance and its duration, the species, habitat type,

season, activity at the time of exposure, sex and age of the individual, level of previous exposure,

and whether other physical stresses are occurring around the time of exposure.

Operation of machinery, heavy equipment and supporting vehicles, as well as the presence of

people during construction are a source of noise, light and visual impact. Mammals like Lutra

lutra are expected to move away from the source of disturbance. Additionally, Canis aureus,

which presence has been confirmed in the area (the section of the pipe is considered of key

importance), may be temporarily displaced due to local nuisances related to noise and human

presence. Nevertheless, as seen in other areas of Greece, it is expected that due to (1) the

temporary and localized nature of the works and (2) the conservation of the habitat quality, jackal

population will remain stable and impacts be not significant to the extent operations implement

standard preventive/mitigation measures embedded during construction works.

Increased vehicular traffic is also expected to cause a rise in losses of tortoises and snakes due

to collisions. Tortoises do not exhibit territorial behaviour but still show fidelity to their hibernation

sites and therefore might not be dissuaded by construction activities. It is possible that tortoise

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mortality will also increase 1-2 years after construction due to increased visibility of young and

vulnerable individuals to predators in the worked areas. This however is not expected to be a

relevant case in this specific section of the pipeline area as the majority of the arable lands

crossed are active and therefore no relevant changes in visibility due to construction are

expected. In addition, the clearing of vegetation will be followed by increased human disturbance

that will probably discourage the animals from immediately using the new open sites, and thus

reducing the potential extent of the impact.

Main source of disturbance to fauna species will be the noise emitted by the construction

equipment. The following table (Table 4-7) presents the noise levels expected to be emitted

during the construction of the project. Given the limited time of construction, it is assessed that

impacts will be significant only within 500 m from the source of the noise.

Table 4-7 Noise pressure level from construction activities Total noise pressure level [dB(A)] at

50m 100m 200m 250m 500m 1000m

Construction of Pipeline

Preparation Working Strip 71.0 65.0 59.0 57.0 51.0 45.0

Top Soil Stripping and Grading 76.8 70.8 64.8 62.8 56.8 50.8

Pipe Stringing 61.6 55.6 49.6 47.6 41.6 35.6

Pipe Bending 74.0 68.0 62.0 60.0 54.0 48.0

Pipe Welding 74.0 68.0 62.0 60.0 54.0 48.0

Joint coating 76.8 70.7 64.7 62.8 56.8 50.7

Trench Digging 76.5 70.5 64.5 62.5 56.5 50.5

Pipelaying 74.8 68.8 62.8 60.8 54.8 48.8

Hydrotesting 65.6 59.6 53.6 51.6 45.6 39.6

Dewatering and drying 58.4 52.4 46.4 44.5 38.4 32.4

Backfilling and reinstatement 74.9 68.9 62.9 60.9 54.9 48.9

Replacement of Topsoil 77.4 71.3 65.3 63.4 57.4 51.3

Construction of GCS00 & GCS01

Site preparation 74.5 68.5 62.5 60.5 54.5 48.5

Construction 74.8 68.7 62.7 60.8 54.8 48.7

Trenchless Crossings

HDD 68.3 62.3 56.3 54.4 48.3 42.3 Compiled: ERM (2012) & ASPROFOS (2013) based on ENT inputs, February2012

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Disturbance would be significant is for the first 500 m around the working strip. Assuming that no

mitigation measures are applied, the significance of the impact is minor. No disturbance is

expected during operation phase. The pipeline will be buried and minimum noise will be caused

by the maintenance patrolling along the pipeline protection strip.

Although there will be no construction activities within the river channel of Nestos, according to

the current project design the river will be used as a source (abstraction) and discharge point for

water to be used in the hydrotesting of the pipeline – refer to Table 2-1. Environmental effects are

expected to be minimal or negligible when discharge rates are under 10% of the receiving river

flow. Annual mean flow rate of Nestos River is 58 m³/ sec3. In consideration of the relatively

substantial, perennial flow rate of the Nestos River, sensitivity of the watercourse is considered to

be low. The temporary nature of the hydrotest activities associated with the watercourse, the fact

that the water will have been passed through a sedimentation pool prior to discharge (see

Section 2.2.2), as well as being discharged at a controlled rate, magnitude of impact is

considered to be small. Therefore any impacts are considered not significant.

4.7 Assessment of Impacts on Annex I Bird Species due to Project Activities


Table 4-8 presents how the activities described in Section 2 could impact Annex I Bird Species.

3 http://www.kavalanet.gr/keramoti/nestos.htm, retrieved on 06.06.2013.

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Table 4-8 Potential Impacts on Annex I and migratory bird species due to project activities Receptor Project phase Activity Impact

Species listed in Annex I in the Habitats Directive

Construction

Working strip clearance Clearance of HDD working sites Trenching Backfilling Machinery operation Reinstatement

Habitat loss in the area of working strip. Loss and damaging of old trees. Fragmentation. Disturbance (noise, light, human presence). Loss of individuals.



Habitat loss in the area of safety zone in forest. Fragmentation. Disturbance.



Repair activities in case of leak or damage by third party activities




4.7.2.1 Habitat loss

The proposed pipeline route crosses the sites at their northernmost parts, passing mainly through

pure agricultural zones, of limited biodiversity interest, that will not be permanently affected by the

project in terms of their function. Most of the qualifying species of the SPA (Haliaeetus albicilla,

Hoplopterus spinosus, etc.) are expected to breed and forage in the Delta area of Nestos i.e. at a

great distance from the pipeline. Additionally the most fragile habitats of this crossing are

considered to be Nestos River and its surrounding riparian zone but HDD will be performed for

the crossing of Nestos and no excavations will take place within the close zone of the river bed.

For the rest of the route within the sites, temporary loss of mainly agricultural zones due to the

constructional needs of TAP project (clearing of working strip, excavating, trenching, etc.) could

potentially affect bird species using such habitats.

Temporary loss of agricultural land could potentially affect bird species using these areas as

nesting-breeding grounds. Species usually nesting in agricultural areas, meadows, fallow open

country land are ground-nesting species like crested lark. For the species Accipiter brevipes,

Falco naumanni, Coracias garrulous, Lanius nubicus, which are included in Annex I of the Birds

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Directive, there is a potential impact during the construction phase in terms of loss of their

breeding, roosting or foraging habitat, which however is highly unlikely to occur.

Within the National Park of East Macedonia and Thrace as well as SPA GR 150001, from KP

159.5 to 159.8 the pipeline route passes in close to an inland lake where several protected

species might be affected during the construction time being the moustached warbler

(Acrocephalus melanopogon) and the marsh harrier (Circus aeroginosus) the most importants

pecies. From KP 158.9 to 159.1 the pipeline crosses a reedbed within the SPA which is suitable

habitat for wintering moustached warblers and a potential nesting site for the species. The

condition of the habitat is the preferred for the species with a mixture of old any new steps of

Phragmites australis and permanent water through the whole year. Project activities can be

performed in this area, with certain limitations and mitigation measures. Additionally within the

SAC GR 1150010 from KP 153.4 to 154.2 two species of high importance were recorded: the

levant sparrowhawk (Accipiter brevipes) and the black stork (Ciconia nigra). Levant sparrowhawk

was found nesting in close distance from the pipeline (80 m) in the area crossed by the pipe in

Nestos river while black storks were observed feeding along Nestos river. Project activities can

be performed in this area, with certain limitations and mitigation measures such as the proposed

implementation of the HDD method so as to avoid logging of suitable nesting trees in the riverine

forest of Nestos river.

Given the temporary nature of construction activities and the distance of the crossing from the

main habitats of the Natura sites, the impact of habitat loss during construction is considered to

be small, if all appropriate mitigation measures are implemented. However, the significance of the

habitat loss during breeding period could be considered as moderate for ground nesting birds

subject to protection in the Natura 2000 sites as it is a temporary effect limited to the duration of

the works.

In any case a pre-construction survey along the route will be carried out in order to ensure that

any site specific issues will be highlighted before construction (e.g. nests).

No impacts are anticipated during the operational period, as there will be no permanent loss of

habitat given that the working strip is going to be reinstated to its prior construction condition.

Agricultural land and other open habitats will be completely reinstated and replanted for the

whole working strip.

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4.7.2.2 Disturbance (Noise, Light and Human Presence)

Determining the magnitude of disturbance effects on wildlife is difficult because impact responses

vary between species and between individuals of a single population. These variable responses

are due to the characteristics of the disturbance and its duration, the species, habitat type,

season, activity at the time of exposure, sex and age of the individual, level of previous exposure,

and whether other physical stresses are occurring around the time of exposure.

The potential for noise disturbance was assessed as there might be several sources of potential

noise disturbance to birds during the construction of the pipeline. The machinery concentrated at

the construction site might be the most significant source of potential noise disturbance, as well

as generators, operation of heavy plant, assembling of machinery, traffic, general construction

noise, human vocalizations etc. The impacts of artificial light in terms of deterioration of foraging

habitats for nocturnal birds of prey, inappropriate night-time singing in birds and disorientation in

nocturnal migrants, as well as deterioration on prey availability and foraging success of birds

through disorientation, glare and changes in the behavior of prey were considered as the most

relevant issue to evaluate. However, such disturbance will be temporary, localized, moderate and

distant from the species sensitive “sub-areas” within the Natura 2000 sites i.e. Delta of Nestos.

During the construction phase, clearance of the working strip and heavy machinery operation

could result in loss of nests, eggs and individuals (mainly juveniles) for ground nesting species in

open areas and agricultural land during the breeding period. Species that could potentially be

affected are ground nesting species in the area like crested lark (Galerida cristata) or Accipiter

brevipes, which were recorded within the site as well as Falco naumanni, Coracias garrulus, and

Lanius nubicus which can be found in the site and the wider area. These are species that could

potentially be affected by pipeline construction activities in the agricultural area during the

breeding season.

In general the disturbance to birds depends on the season. For all bird species the potential for

impact will be higher during their breeding period, while construction activities outside the

breeding season would be highly unlikely to give rise to any impact regarding loss of individuals

of bird species. An additional parameter when assessing the disturbance is the distance from the

source of it, which depends on each bird species. Song birds and the ground-nesting birds may

be affected up to a distance of about 500 m from the source of disturbance, while for raptor

species the distance can be up to 2 km (Birdlife, 2004). Disturbances during breeding period can

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cause abandonment of nests and the failure of reproduction for that year, or even the permanent

displacement from the area in the case of breeding raptors. Disturbance during construction

activities may then give rise to impact in some species during breeding period, especially for the

above mentioned species potentially using the area of the Project as a breeding site.

During construction phase the impact magnitude is considered as medium as it will be temporary,

limited to the duration of the construction works (approximately 4 months) and will affect a small

area within the whole habitat, which given the mobility of birds contribute to reduce the

magnitude.

As presented in Table 4-7, the significance of the disturbance during breeding period for bird

species is major for the first 500 m around the working strip. During non-breeding periods the

sensitivity of birds to this impact is low. Therefore the significance of the impact is minor, while no

disturbance is expected during operation phase.

Overall, due to the limited exposure of species to disturbance factors (approximately 4 months

construction), it is expected that any disturbance will be short term, localized and not significant.

4.7.2.3 Fragmentation

Fragmentation during construction period could potentially affect species that may nest in the

area. Due to the landscape of the area crossed by the pipeline (agricultural land) as well as the

trenchless method performed for the Nestos crossing, fragmentation of is not expected to affect

foraging, or wintering staging species. However, within the National Park of East Macedonia and

Thrace as well as SPA GR 150001, from KP 159.5 to 159.8 the pipeline route passes in close

distance from an inland lake where several protected species might be affected during the

construction time with most important the moustached warbler Acrocephalus melanopogon and

marsh harrier Circus aeroginosus. From KP 158.9 to 159.1 the pipeline crosses a reedbed within

the SPA which is suitable habitat for wintering moustached warblers and a potential nesting site

for the species. The condition of the habitat is the preferred for the species with a mixture of old

any new steps of Phragmites australis and permanent water through the whole year. In order to

minimize fragmentation during construction period in those two mentioned areas, project

activities can be performed with certain limitations and mitigation measures.

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If construction will be carried out during breeding period, the impact is considered short term and

temporary with medium magnitude. Given the sensitivity of the receptor and status of protection,

the significance could be moderate.

During operation phase, the agricultural land will be completely reinstated, with no residual

impact remaining on agricultural land or on other open areas like meadows, pastures. There are

no expected impacts during operation on birds (breeding, staging or foraging).

4.7.2.4 Loss of Individuals

During the construction phase, clearance of the working strip and heavy machinery operation

could result in loss of nests, eggs and individuals (mainly juveniles) for ground nesting species in

open areas, agricultural land and tree nesting species during breeding period. Species that could

potentially be affected are ground nesting species in the area like Galerida cristata.

As a result, in case of construction operation during breeding period the anticipated impact to

ground-nesting species is potentially of major significance due to the sensitivity of the species

despite the temporary action of the impact and limited area affected. Construction operation

outside the breeding season is highly unlikely to give rise to any impact regarding loss of

individuals of bird species.

As mentioned earlier, no clearance operation is expected to be carried out during the operation

phase in the protected area due to the landscape of the area crossed by the pipeline being

agricultural land. Therefore, no impact is anticipated regarding loss of individuals.

4.8 Cumulative Impacts

Cumulative impacts may result from a number of projects and activities interacting within the

environment of the sites. For the case of TAP project, potential for cumulative impacts arise due

to the coexistence of other linear infrastructures adjacent to the proposed pipeline’s route, as the

Egnatia Highway crossing the Site 570 m north of the pipeline, the railway tracks, the high

voltage power lines and the existing DESFA pipeline.

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It is well established that pipelines, power lines and roads can form a linear intrusion in natural

areas leading to habitat loss, fragmentation, and to the creation of barriers to movement of

terrestrial species. However, it is common practice to locate linear infrastructures close to each

other, as by this way the area affected by them (in terms of habitat fragmentation and habitat

loss) is limited and remains concentrated, and no further barriers are created. In addition no other

planned projects or investments are known to be proposed within the Natura 2000 site and

therefore no cumulative impacts are expected during the TAP construction period.

The Project will use existing infrastructure and no other Project construction facilities (pipe yards,

camps etc.) will be located in the area.

During operation, no cumulative impacts are anticipated as the pipeline will be completely

underground and no other pipeline facilities (i.e. BVSs) are located in the area. As described in

previous sections, after implementation of mitigation measures, habitat loss is expected to be

limited to those very limited patches of land or fields which although arable are currently not in

use. Nevertheless, even in these isolated small patches habitat changes will be limited and once

restoration takes place vegetation would be recovered with a short timeframe.

4.9 Mitigation Measures

In order to minimize, mitigate or eliminate potential impacts during both constructional and

operational phases of TAP project, mitigation measures will be implemented during the different

phases of the project. Many of the mitigation measures presented are standard measures (i.e.

are not specific to the project but are the good practice and are important to reducing all impacts

derived from the project construction and operation).

In this context, it must be mentioned that a key mitigation measure embedded within the Project

design during construction is the use of HDD as the crossing technique for Nestos River. This will

avoid direct impacts to the riparian habitats and riverine habitats, thus ensuring no habitat loss,

minimizing wetland species disturbance and loss of nesting sites.

Additionally, specific mitigation measures shall be implemented so as to protect the qualifying

habitat types and species of the GR 1150001 and the GR 1150010 Natura 2000 site and to

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maintain them in a favourable conservation status. These measures are proposed through

Sections 4.9.1 to 4.9.3. The following mitigation measures have been categorized but are not

applied only for one of each category.

4.9.1 Habitat Loss / Degradation & Habitat Fragmentation

The following measures should be implemented so as to reduce/mitigate impacts relevant to

habitat loss, degradation and / or fragmentation:

• Prior to any working activities marking tape has to be placed in order to define the working area and ensure the restriction of impacts.

• During excavation activities soil will be taken and stored carefully, while watering should be performed when necessary. The topsoil removed has to be carefully stored (separately from the sub-soil).

• The working area has to be reinstated to its original condition by replacing excavated material and preserving the surface sediment type.

• During periodic clearing of vegetation along the route corridor local natural vegetation types should be maintained and alien species be removed. Shrubby growth has to be encouraged at periodic points, designated by experts, in order to provide for habitat cover and facilitate animal crossings.

• Restoration of sites to their original condition where possible upon completion of construction. Close collaboration with all statutory stakeholders (especially the Management Body of the National Park and the competent Forest Authority) during the elaboration of a Reinstatement Study.

• Litter and other waste material have to be stored and disposed of appropriately in order to minimize a potential risk of damaging or polluting habitats and species.

• Any environmentally hazardous material used during construction works have to be carefully stored.

• Habitat compensation measures should be considered where required to replace permanently lost and damaged habitats. This may include new habitat creation, restoration of damaged habitats and habitat enhancement; i.e. the creation of perching poles or the provision of artificial nest structures in certain sites, may minimize impacts or even improve the present habitat conditions

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• The greatest numbers and diversity of bird species occur in the vicinity of the development from March to July, when breeding occurs. Construction activities should be avoided, if possible, during that period, in the protected area.

• Riparian tree zones, tree thickets and isolated trees within the farmland and the pasture land parcels should be avoided as much as possible, to preserve important structural elements for the local habitats. Habitat types of riparian zones are susceptible to stream-bank alterations (diversions, construction debris, etc.), thus special care is needed in the phase of planning and establishing of construction works.

• A walkover along the route has to be carried out prior to construction in order to survey the habitats. This will ensure that any site specific issues will be highlighted before construction (e.g. otter dens, reptile nests, potential overlap with priority habitat type e.g. 3170 and 91EO). In case that nest destruction is unavoidable, the availability of such habitats should be increased in the vicinity of the zone, by creating artificial nests or otter dens.

• A reduced working strip should be considered in areas of natural vegetation such as KP 155, 157.5, and 161

• To the extent feasible pipeline strip should be located as close as possible to the old national road, while construction works should be avoided during the wintering and breeding season (from mid November to end of June).

• If feasible, construction strip should follow existing openings in the natural vegetation

• From KP 154 to 159: for the species of Canes aurous:

- Construction works should be carried out during appropriate period for the species season. According to available data, construction works is suggested to be performed between August and January to avoid disturbance during breeding-mating season and birth period.

- No facilities should be placed in the site or its vicinity other from the working stripe and HDD rig (no workers camps, machinery or logistics camps, etc.)

- Road openings/ upgrades, creation of any new infrastructure and dawn/dusk day activities must be avoided so as not to permanently reduce habitat quality or disturb the species.

- The use of existing network must be preferred. Vehicles should move with a low speed within the sites.

- The destruction of riparian and bushy vegetation must be avoided as to increase the possibilities of jackals’ resettle in the area. Wildlife must be maintained unregimented (i.e. corridors from where wildlife can pass through).

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• Works must be supervised by an ecology expert.

• Intensive habitat type, flora and fauna monitoring will be continued throughout the construction period in order to record the habitat type distribution, flora and fauna species present and identify any contrasting findings with recent preconstruction survey results.

• Establish a pre / post construction biodiversity baseline from which all mitigation, restoration, and loss / degradation can be measured.

• Post construction monitoring has to be carried out for at least three years. However, the duration of monitoring will depend upon the speed of recovery.

• Mennonite used for the HDD performed for Nestos crossing should be carefully managed and once HHD completed, stored, temporarily, in closed containers and disposed by licensed contractors.

• No water abstractions will be conducted on any of the water bodies, without appropriate authorization from the competent public authorities.

• No water discharges will be conducted on any of the water bodies, without appropriate authorization from the competent public authorities.

4.9.2 Disturbance

The following measures must be implemented so as to mitigate impacts relevant to species

disturbance:

• Use screens around work area as buffer to visual/light/noise sources; in sites where species of conservation interest have been verified, at a distance smaller than 500 m. Special noise reduction measures should be installed around the generators and the pumps that will be used for the HDD and the Hydrotesting.

• Lighting in the working site has to be limited preferably only in areas crucial for works and security purposes. It has to be directed downwards and designed in a way to minimize light scattering outside of the working area.

• The greatest numbers and diversity of bird species occur in the vicinity of the development from March to July, when breeding occurs. Construction activities should be avoided, if possible, during that period, in the protected area.

• Construction works should be avoided from dusk till dawn, if possible.

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• A walkover along the route has to be carried out prior to construction in order to survey the presence of important for the species. This will ensure that any site specific issues such as nesting will be highlighted before the commencing of the constructional activities, so as to prevent any disturbance to nesting species.


• Access to the project area will only be permitted to authorised staff and vehicle movements should be kept to minimum.

4.9.3 Loss of Individuals

The following measures must be implemented so as to mitigate impacts relevant to loss of

species individuals:

• A walkover along the route has to be carried out prior to construction in order to survey potential presence of important for the sites nesting species. This will ensure that any site specific issues will be highlighted before construction (e.g. otter dens, reptile nests).



• Fauna species should not be caught or killed during construction;

• At trenches, plugs will be incorporated every 100 m and daily fauna retrieval will be conducted if required;

• Where appropriate, temporary or permanent provisions for fauna to cross the working strip/ roads using underpasses, tunnels or other measures should be installed;

• Prior to discharge, hydro test water will be tested to ensure that its quality complies with local and international requirements for wastewater discharge. Local treatment (i.e. filtration) will be provided if necessary.

• A fine mesh (hole diameter 3 mm) will be applied to water abstraction to avoid entrainment of small fish; and

• Hydro test water discharges will not be made without prior agreement and appropriate consents and approvals from the authorities.

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4.10 Assessment of Residual Impacts

Implementation of the aforementioned mitigation measures will minimise impact significance. The

subsequent residual impacts are presented in Table 4-8. It must be mentioned that the table

refers only to impacts considered as significant before the implementation of the mitigation

measures (i.e. impacts on species). Thus, impacts on habitats are not considered as these were

assessed as not significant.

Table 4-8 Residual Impacts associated with Project Activities Impact / Risk Mitigation Measure to Address Impact / Risk Significance of Residual

Impact Construction Phase Impact derived from Habitat Loss / Degradation & Habitat Fragmentation on species

• Establishment and marking of working strip

• Careful storage of topsoil. • Reinstatement of working strip. Close collaboration with all

statutory stakeholders (especially the Management Body of the National Park and the competent Forest Authority) during the elaboration of a Reinstatement Study.

• Local natural vegetation types should be maintained and alien species be removed. Shrubby growth has to be encouraged at periodic points to provide for habitat cover and facilitate animal crossings.

• Litter and other waste material have to be stored and disposed of appropriately

• Any environmentally hazardous material used during construction works have to be carefully stored.

• Habitat compensation measures should be considered where required to replace permanently lost and damaged habitats. This may include new habitat creation, restoration of damaged habitats and habitat enhancement; i.e. the creation of perching poles or the provision of artificial nest structures in certain sites, may minimize impacts or even improve the present habitat conditions

• Construction activities should be avoided, if possible, during that March - July, in the protected area.

• Riparian tree zones, tree thickets and isolated trees within the farmland and the pasture land parcels should be avoided as much as possible, to preserve important structural elements for the local habitats.

• A walkover along the route has to be carried out prior to construction in order to highlight areas of ecological interest (e.g. otter dens, reptile nests, potential overlap with priority habitat type e.g. 3170 and 91EO). In case that nest destruction is unavoidable, the availability of such habitats should be increased in the vicinity of the zone, by creating artificial nests or otter dens.

• A reduced working strip should be considered in areas of natural vegetation such as KP 155, 157.5, and 161

• To the extent feasible pipeline strip should be located as close as possible to the old national road, while construction works should be avoided during the wintering and breeding season

Minor Impacts from habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation are temporary, short term and limited to the agricultural fields (corn and cereals) where the open-cut section will be performed and the receiving sites will be located. Overall residual impacts will be minor post-mitigation.

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Impact / Risk Mitigation Measure to Address Impact / Risk Significance of Residual Impact

(from mid November to end of June).

• If feasible, construction strip should follow existing openings in the natural vegetation

• From KP 154 to 159: for the species of Canis aureus: o Construction works should be carried out during

appropriate period for the species season. According to available data, construction works is suggested to be performed between August and January to avoid disturbance during breeding-mating season and birth period.

o No facilities should be placed in the site or its vicinity other from the working stripe and HDD rig (no workers camps, machinery or logistics camps, etc.)

o Road openings/ upgrades, creation of any new infrastructure and dawn/dusk day activities must be avoided so as not to permanently reduce habitat quality or disturb the species.

o The use of existing network must be preferred. Vehicles should move with a low speed within the sites.

o The destruction of riparian and bushy vegetation must be avoided as to increase the possibilities of jackals’ resettle in the area. Wildlife must be maintained unfragmented (i.e. corridors from where wildlife can pass through).

• Works must be supervised by an ecology expert. • Intensive habitat type, flora and fauna monitoring will be

continued throughout the construction period • Establish a pre / post construction biodiversity baseline from

which all mitigation, restoration, and loss / degradation can be measured.

• Post construction monitoring has to be carried out for at least three years. However, the duration of monitoring will depend upon the speed of recovery.

• Bentonite used for the HDD performed for Nestos crossing should be carefully managed and once HHD completed, stored, temporarily, in closed containers and disposed by licensed contractors.

• No water abstractions will be conducted on any of the water bodies, without appropriate authorization from the competent public authorities

• No water discharges will be conducted on any of the water bodies, without appropriate authorization from the competent public authorities.

Loss of Individuals

• A walkover along the route has to be carried out prior to construction in order to survey potential presence of important for the sites nesting species.



• Fauna species should not be caught or killed during construction;

• At trenches, plugs will be incorporated every 100 m and daily

Minor Impacts relating to loss of individuals are expected to be minimal and considered to be:

• Relatively low in occurrence; • Limited to accidental causes;

and

• Of low consequence to the population as a whole.

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Impact / Risk Mitigation Measure to Address Impact / Risk Significance of Residual Impact

fauna retrieval will be conducted if required;

• Where appropriate, temporary or permanent provisions for fauna to cross the working strip/ roads using underpasses, tunnels or other measures should be installed;

• Prior to discharge, hydrotest water will be tested to ensure that its quality complies with local and international requirements. Local treatment (i.e. filtration) will be provided if necessary.

• A fine mesh (hole diameter 3 mm) will be applied to water abstraction to avoid entrainment of small fish; and

• Hydrotest water discharges will not be made without prior agreement and appropriate consents and approvals from the authorities.

Impacts are likely to be limited to localised areas and temporary in nature. Overall residual impacts will be minor post-mitigation due to avoidance of construction activities during breeding period, the temporary duration of activities and the limited area of working strip.

Species Disturbance and Displacement

• Use screens around work area as buffer to visual/light/noise sources; in sites where species of conservation interest have been verified, at a distance smaller than 500 m. Special noise reduction measures should be installed around the generators and the pumps that will be used for the HDD and the hydrotesting

• Lighting in the working site has to be limited and to be directed downwards to minimize light scattering outside of the working area.

• Construction activities should be avoided, if possible, during March - July, in the protected area.

• Construction works should be avoided from dusk till dawn. • A walkover along the route has to be carried out prior to

construction in order to survey the presence of important for the species.



Minor Impacts relating to species disturbance and displacement are expected to be minimal and considered to be: • Of relatively low magnitude; • Of low consequence to

species population due to their existing habitat use/ wide natural range or species possess higher susceptibility to anthropogenic influences.

Impacts are likely to be limited to localised areas and temporary in nature. Overall residual impacts will be minor post-mitigation

Source: ASPROFOS (2013)

By conducting construction related activities outside the breeding season any residual impacts

will be reduced to minor significance. The same applies to impacts arising from the disturbance

or loss of individuals of a species. Minimising the Project footprint during construction proceeded

by the restoration and revegetation of the working strip, will mitigate habitat degradation and

minimise any residual impacts. Agricultural and open habitats will be completely reinstated

leaving no residual impacts.

During pipeline operation and after applying the measures presented in the table above regarding

PPS clearance outside breeding period, the significance of residual impacts (habitat

fragmentation, disturbance or loss of individuals) are considered to be minor.

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In accordance with the above, the proposed mitigation will minimise any potential impacts to the

qualifying features of the Natura 2000 site. Characteristics and specific environmental conditions

of the sites can be preserved, while conservation objectives can be met. Overall, the

maintenance of the site’s integrity can be achieved.

4.11 Alternative (Including Zero Alternatives)

The GR 1150010 SAC and the GR 1150001 SPA form part of the National Park of East

Macedonia and Thrace. Because of the site’s shape and extension any linear infrastructure

willing to go from east to west Greece or versa will probably traverse this protected Natura 2000

site.

During the route selection process several alternatives routes for crossing the wider area of

Nestos were developed. However, the initial screening of these options demonstrated that the

current route was the preferred option as it follows the existing DESFA pipeline in most of its

extent, and so minimizes impacts regarding the construction requirements (i.e. the corridor which

is required during the operational phase can be reduced in width since some of the meters

required will be unified among the two pipelines. Additionally, the proposed route was selected as

it avoids crossing priority habitat types and important habitats for protected species as

demonstrated.

4.11.1 Comparison of Alternatives

4.11.1.1 Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

Τhe excavation and consolidation of a trench within a sensitive riparian and riverine ecosystem

may cause severe environmental impacts (i.e. habitat loss and temporarily reduce river quality).

In order to avoid such potential impact a trenchless crossing method has been selected, where

virtually no excavations are necessary and all operations occur outside the riparian habitats.

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4.11.1.2 Disturbance

Alternatives closer to the major habitats of the site and open-cut methods would result in

temporary but more intense disturbance of the species around the working strip as well as in the

aquatic ecosystem.

During operation, the only disturbance impacts would result from pipeline inspections and these

are not predicted to cause any significant disturbance impacts.

4.11.1.3 Loss of Individuals

As the works in the open-cut alternative affects not only to terrestrial habitats but also to the

aquatic one, it has been considered that the potential mortality of protected riparian species

would be greater for the open-cut-option.

4.11.2 Zero Alternative

The zero alternative is the non-project alternative. This alternative would imply that no works are

carried out in the site, which would follow its current dynamics and changes in the future would

be anyway occur linked to natural.

4.12 Compensatory Measures

No compensatory measures are foreseen.

4.13 Summary

The present study was carried out in order to assess the potential effects and establish whether

or not TAP project will adversely impact the GR 1150001 and GR 1150010 Natura 2000 sites. As

resulted from the assessment, it is considered that conservation objectives for these sites will not be compromised by the proposed development, nor by any cumulative effects and

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that no significant impact is anticipated on any of the species or habitats for which the sites have been designated.

4.13.1 Habitats

No impacts are anticipated in Priority Annex I Habitat Types. After the implementation of the

restoration plans, the agricultural area and open habitat will be reinstated to pre-construction

condition and the PPS will be replanted (i.e. with appropriate shallow-rooting crops / vegetation).

As a result, there will be no significant alteration to the character of the habitats in the area.

4.13.2 Species

Through Project design and the implementation of mitigation measures any loss of significant

areas of key habitats or any significant increase in habitat fragmentation will be avoided or

minimised. Any interference with species of conservation interest on the site will be equally

minimised, especially through the avoidance of construction activity during the bird breeding

season and the implementation of the HDD method for crossing river Nestos.

Despite potential minor residual impacts on species, these remain at an individual level. No

inference with the balance, distribution and density of key species or any reduction of species

population or population of international conservation interest is expected due to:

• the temporary and short-term nature of the construction activities;

• the non-intrusive nature of the pipeline during operation (i.e. underground);

• the limited and restricted area crossing the site;

• the distance from known bird breeding and wintering areas in the southern part of the Natura site; and

• the mitigation measures to be applied.

Therefore, only minor, adverse residual impacts on species are anticipated as a result of the

construction and operation of the TAP Project that would compromise the integrity of the Natura

2000 sites.

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SUPPLEMENT I – DATA RECORDS

SPA GR1150001 Habitats supporting bird species ecological requirements

Type of Habitat % Cover

Marine areas, Sea inlets 20.99 Tidal rivers, Estuaries, Mud flats, Sand flats, Lagoons (including saltwork basins) 27.06 Salt marshes, Salt pastures, Salt steppes 32.47 Inland water bodies (Standing water, Running water) 1.08 Other arable land 1.08 Other land (including Towns, Villages, Roads, Waste places, Mines, Industrial sites) 17.32 TOTAL HABITAT COVER 100 Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF) Habitats listed on Annex I of Council directive 92/43/EEC

Code Habitat name % Cover

5130 Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands 0.70 6170 Alpine and subalpine calcareous grasslands 11.40

6210 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia) (*important orchid sites) 0.20

9110 Luzulo-Fagetum beech forests 4.80 9130 Asperulo-Fagetum beech forests 5.30 9150 Medio-European limestone beech forests of the Cephalanthero-Fagion 5.70 9260 Castanea sativa woods 3.60 9280 Quercus frainetto woods 0.40

Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF) Birds listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC CODE NAME POPULATION SITE ASSESSMENT

Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A402 Accipiter R C B B B A229 Alcedo atthis P P C B C C A042 Anser

erythropus V A B B B

A255 Anthus campestris

P C B C C

A091 Aquila chrysaetos

R C B C C

A090 Aquila clanga R C B B B A089 Aquila pomarina R C B B B A029 Ardea purpurea 15 B B C B A024 Ardeola

ralloides 6-10 C B C C

A222 Asio flammeus

V C B C C

A060 Aythya nyroca 20 51-100

B B C B

A021 Botaurus R B B B B

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CODE NAME POPULATION SITE ASSESSMENT

Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage stellaris

A396 Branta ruficollis V A B A B A133 Burhinus

oedicnemus R 6-10 C B C C

A403 Buteo rufinus R C B B B A243 Calandrella

brachydactyla P C B C C

A010 Calonectris diomedea

V C B C C


P C B C C

A138 Charadrius alexandrinus

11-50 C B C C

A196 Chlidonias hybridus

51-100

C B C C

A197 Chlidonias niger 501-1000

C B B B

A031 Ciconia ciconia 51-100

B B C B

A030 Ciconia nigra R C B B B A080 Circaetus

gallicus R C B C C

A081 Circus aeruginosus

1-5 11-50 C B C C

A082 Circus cyaneus 6-10 C B C C A083 Circus

macrourus V C B B B

A084 Circus pygargus R C B C C A231 Coracias

garrulus P C B C C

A038 Cygnus cygnus 11-50 A B B B A238 Dendrocopos

medius R C B C C

A429 Dendrocopos syriacus

P C B B B

A027 Egretta alba V 51-100

A B B B

A026 Egretta garzetta 330 51-100

A B C B

A379 Emberiza hortulana

R C B B B

A101 Falco biarmicus R C B C C A098 Falco

columbarius R C B C C

A100 Falco eleonorae R C B B B A095 Falco naumanni P C B C C A103 Falco

peregrinus R C B C C

A097 Falco vespertinus

C C B C C

A321 Ficedula albicollis

R C B C C

A002 Gavia arctica 1-5 C B B B A001 Gavia stellata V C B B B

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A189 Gelochelidon

nilotica 11-50 C B C C

A135 Glareola pratincola

<50 B B C B

A076 Gypaetus barbatus

R C B B B

A087 Gyps fulvus R C B C C A075 Haliaeetus

albicilla R V B B B B


R C B C C

A131 Himantopus himantopus

100 B B C B

A439 Hippolais olivetorum

R C B C C

A418 Hoplopterus spinosus

6-10 A B B B

A022 Ixobrychus minutus

11-50 B B C B

A338 Lanius collurio P C B C C A339 Lanius minor P C B C C A433 Lanius nubicus R C B B B A180 Larus genei 101-

250 251-500

C B C C

A176 Larus melanocephalus

101-250

C B C C

A177 Larus minutus 251-500

C B C C

A157 Limosa lapponica

1-5 A B B B

A246 Lullula arborea R C B C C A242 Melanocorypha

calandra P C B C C

A068 Mergus albellus 11-50 B B C B A073 Milvus migrans R C B C C A074 Milvus milvus R A B B B A077 Neophron

percnopterus R C B C C

A159 Numenius tenuirostris

V A B B B

A023 Nycticorax nycticorax

R C B C C

A071 Oxyura leucocephala

330 A B B B

A094 Pandion haliaetus

1 B B C B

A020 Pelecanus crispus

101-250

A B B B

A019 Pelecanus onocrotalus

51-100

A B A B

A072 Pernis apivorus R C B C C A393 Phalacrocorax

pygmeus R 101-

250 A B B B


501-1000

C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A035 Phoenicopterus

ruber V >3000 >1000 A B B B

A034 Platalea leucorodia

R 11-50 C B C C

A032 Plegadis falcinellus

51-100

C B C C

A140 Pluvialis apricaria

1-5 C B C C

A007 Podiceps auritus

V D

A120 Porzana parva R C B B B A132 Recurvirostra

avosetta 45 501-

1000 B B C B

A195 Sterna albifrons 11-50 251-500

B B C B

A190 Sterna caspia 1-5 B B C B A193 Sterna hirundo 251-

500 A B C B

A191 Sterna sandvicensis

51-100

51-100

C B C C

A397 Tadorna ferruginea

1-5 R A B B B

A166 Tringa glareola 101-250

C B C C

A167 Xenus cinereus V A B B B Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF) Regularly occurring Migratory Birds not listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC CODE NAME POPULATION SITE ASSESSMENT

Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A085 Accipiter R C B C C A086 Accipiter nisus R R C B C C A298 Acrocephalus

arundinaceus C C B C C

A295 Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

R C B C C

A297 Acrocephalus scirpaceus

R C B C C

A168 Actitis hypoleucos

6-10 C B C C

A247 Alauda arvensis

R C B C C

1103 Alosa fallax P B B C B A054 Anas acuta 251-

500 C B C C

A056 Anas clypeata 251-500

B B C B

A051 Anas crecca 3000 B B C B A050 Anas penelope 1700 B B C B A053 Anas

platyrhynchos 5100 A B C B

A055 Anas querquedula

251-500

B B C B

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A051 Anas strepera 40 51-100 A B C B A041 Anser albifrons 11-50 C B C C A043 Anser anser 11-50 C B B B A257 Anthus

pratensis C C B C C

A259 Anthus spinoletta

R C B C C

A256 Anthus trivialis C C B C C A226 Apus apus R C C B C C A228 Apus melba C C B C C A028 Ardea cinerea 120 11-50 A B C B A169 Arenaria

interpres 51-

100 C B C C

A059 Aythya ferina 4500 B B C B A061 Aythya fuligula 251-

500 B B C B

A062 Aythya marila V A B B B A067 Bucephala

clangula 51-100 A B B B

A215 Buteo buteo C C B C C A088 Buteo lagopus V D A144 Calidris alba 11-50 C B C C A149 Calidris alpina 251-

500 <2300 C B C C

A143 Calidris canutus

6-10 B B B B

A147 Calidris ferruginea

<3000 C B C C

A145 Calidris minuta 501-1000

>1000 C B C C

A146 Calidris temminckii

V C B C C

A365 Carduelis spinus

C C C B C C

A136 Charadrius dubius

11-50 C B C C

A137 Charadrius hiaticula

1-5 C B B B

A198 Chlidonias leucopterus

251-500

C B B B

A211 Clamator glandarius

R C B B B

A064 Clangula hyemalis

R A B A B

A373 Coccothraustes coccothraustes

R R C B C C

A007 Columba oenas R C B B B A208 Columba

palumbus R C B C C

A348 Corvus frugilegus

C >10000 A B C B

A347 Coturnix coturnix

R C B C C

A212 Cuculus R C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage canorus

A036 Cygnus olor 501-1000

B B C B

A253 Delichon urbica C C B C C A376 Emberiza

citrinella C C B C C

A382 Emberiza melanocephala

C C B C C

A381 Emberiza schoeniclus

R C B C C

A269 Erithacus rubecula

C C C B C C

A099 Falco subbuteo R C B C C A359 Fringilla

coelebs C C C C B C C

A336 Fringilla montifringilla

C C B C C

A125 Fulica atra 11000 A B C B A153 Gallinago

gallinago R C B C C

A130 Haematopus ostralegus

11-50 101-250

C B C C

A299 Hippolais icterina

C C B C C

A438 Hippolais pallida

C C B C C

A252 Hirundo daurica R C B C C A251 Hirundo rustica C C B C C A233 Jynx torquilla R C B C C A341 Lanius senator R C B C C A812 Larus canus 11-50 B B B B A183 Larus fuscus R C B C C A179 Larus

ridibundus >2000 C B C C

A150 Limicola falcinellus

V A B C B

A157 Limosa limosa 501-1000

C B C C

A292 Locustella luscinioides

R C B C C

A271 Luscinia megarhynchos

P C B C C

A152 Lymnocryptes minimus

R C B B B

A065 Melanitta nigra R B B A B A069 Mergus serrator 101-

250 A B C B

A230 Merops apiaster

C C B C C

A280 Monticola saxatilis

R C B C C

A262 Motacilla alba R C B C C A261 Motacilla

cinerea P C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A260 Motacilla flava P C C B C C A381 Muscicapa

striata C C B C C

A058 Netta rufina V 11-50 A B C B A144 Numenius

arquata 101-

250 C B C C

A158 Numenius phaeopus

11-50 C B B B

A278 Oenanthe hispanica

R C B C C

A435 Oenanthe isabellina

R C B B B

1360 Oenanthe oenanthe

P C B C C

A337 Oriolus oriolus C C B C C A214 Otus scops R C B C C A323 Panurus

biarmicus C C B C C

A415 Passer hispaniolensis

C C B C C

A391 Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis

101-250

A B C B

A273 Phoenicurus ochruros

R C B C C

A377 Phoenicurus phoenicurus

R C B C C

A313 Phylloscopus bonelli

R C B C C

A315 Phylloscopus collybita

C C B C C

A314 Phylloscopus sibilatrix

R C B C C

A316 Phylloscopus trochilus

C C B C C

A141 Pluvialis squatarola

101-250

101-250

C B C C

A005 Podiceps cristatus

11-50 11-50 101-250

A B C B

A006 Podiceps grisegena

V A B B B

A008 Podiceps nigricollis

501-1000

C B C C

A266 Prunella modularis

P C B C C

A250 Ptyonoprogne rupestris

R C B C C

A013 Puffinus puffinus

1-5 C B C C

A317 Regulus regulus

C C B C C

A249 Riparia riparia C C B C C A275 Saxicola

rubetra C C B B B

A155 Scolopax rusticola

R C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A210 Streptopelia

turtur C C B C C

A283 Sturnus roseus V C B B B A283 Sturnus

vulgaris C C B C C

A311 Sylvia atricapilla

R C B C C

A364 Sylvia cantillans

C C B C C

A309 Sylvia communis

C C B C C

A303 Sylvia conspicillata

C D

A308 Sylvia curruca R C B C C A306 Sylvia hortensis R C B C C A004 Tachybaptus

ruficollis 11-50 B B C B

A048 Tadorna tadorna

11-50 >1000 A B C B

A161 Tringa erythropus

11-50 C B C C

A164 Tringa nebularia

51-100

C B C C

A165 Tringa ochropus

R C B C C

A163 Tringa stagnatilis

11-50 C B B B

A162 Tringa totanus R 101-250

51-100

C B C C

A286 Turdus iliacus C C B C C A285 Turdus

philomelos C C B C C

A247 Turdus pilaris C C B C C A232 Upupa epops R C B C C A142 Vanellus

vanellus C C B C C


Mammals listed on Annex II of Council directive 92/43/EEC CODE NAME POPULATION SITE ASSESSMENT

Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage 1355 Lutra lutra >30 i A C A A


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Amphibians and Reptiles listed on Annex II of Council directive 92/43/EEC CODE NAME POPULATION SITE ASSESSMENT

Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage 1193 Bombina P C C C C 1279 Elaphe P B C C C 1293 Elaphe situla P D 1220 Emys C B C C C 1222 Mauremys C B C C C 1219 Testudo graeca R C C C C 1217 Testudo P B C C C 1171 Triturus karelinii P C B C C Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF) Other important species of flora and fauna

GROUP SCIENTIFIC NAME POPULATION MOTIVATION A Bufo bufo P C A Bufo viridis C C M Canis aureus P A R Coluber caspius P C R Cyrtodactylus kotschyi P C R Elaphe longissima P C M Felis silvestris P C P Fraxinus angustifolia P D P Groenlandia densa V D A Hyla arborea C C R Lacerta viridis P C R Malpolon monspessulanus P C M Martes foina P C M Meles meles P C M Mustela nivalis P C R Natrix natrix P C R Natrix tessellata P C M Nyctalus lasiopterus V A M Nyctalus leisleri P A R Ophisaurus apodus P C P Pancratium maritimum P D A Pelobates syriacus P C R Podarcis taurica P C A Rana dalmatina P C A Rana ridibunda P C A Salamandra salamandra P C P Salvinia natans P D P Trapa natans V D A Triturus vulgaris P C M Vespertilio murinus V A R Vipera ammodytes P C M Vormela peregusna P A M Canis lupus P A

(B=Birds, M=Mammals, A=Amphibians, R=Reptiles, P=Plants) Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF)

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SAC GR1150010 Annex I Habitat Types

CODE TYPE OF HABITAT % COVER REPRESEN-TATIVITY

RELATIVE SURFACE

CONSER-VATION STATUS

GLOBAL ASSESS-

MENT

1110 Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time

12.98 A A B A

1130 Estuaries 0.10 A B B B

1150 Coastal lagoons 4.07 A B C B

1210 Annual vegetation of drift lines 0.18 A B A A

1310 Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand

0.21 A C A B

1410 Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi)

7.94 B A C B

1420

Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi)

2.81 A B B B

2110 Embryonic shifting dunes 0.05 C C B C

2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes)

0.13 A C B B

2190 Humid dune slacks 0.07 B A B B

2220 Dunes with Euphorbia terracina 0.91 A A B A

3150

Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition - type vegetation

0.00 A B B B

3170* Mediterranean temporary ponds 0.00 A C B B

3280

Constantly flowing Mediterranean rivers with Paspalo-Agrostidion species and hanging curtains of Salix and Populus alba

3.31 B A B B

62A0

Eastern sub-mediterranean dry grasslands (Scorzoneratalia villosae)

0.34 B C C C

6420 Mediterranean tall humid grasslands of the Molinio-Holoschoenion

3.77 B A B B

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CODE TYPE OF HABITAT % COVER REPRESEN-TATIVITY

RELATIVE SURFACE

CONSER-VATION STATUS

GLOBAL ASSESS-

MENT

91E0*

Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae)

1.67 B A B B

91F0

Riparian mixed forests of Quercus robur, Ulmus laevis and Ulmus minor, Fraxinus excelsior or Fraxinus angustifolia, along the great rivers (Ulmenion minoris)

0.44 B A C B

92A0 Salix alba and Populus alba galleries 2.53 A B B B

92D0

Southern riparian galleries and thickets (Nerio-Tamaricetea and Securinegion tinctoriae)

1.14 B B B B

Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF) Birds listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC CODE NAME POPULATION SITE ASSESSMENT

Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A402 Accipiter

brevipes P C B B B

A229 Alcedo atthis P P C B C C A255 Anthus

campestris P C B C C

A091 Aquila chrysaetos

R C B C C

A090 Aquila clanga 1-5 C B B B A089 Aquila pomarina P C B B B A029 Ardea purpurea 30 A B C B A024 Ardeola

ralloides P C B C C

A396 Branta ruficollis R A B A B A133 Burhinus

oedicnemus P C B C C

A403 Buteo rufinus P C B B B A243 Calandrella

brachydactyla P P C B C C


P C B C C

A138 Charadrius alexandrinus

P P C B C C

A196 Chlidonias hybridus

P C B C C

A197 Chlidonias niger P C B B B A031 Ciconia ciconia P C B C C A030 Ciconia nigra P C B B B A080 Circaetus

gallicus P C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A081 Circus

aeruginosus P C B C C

A082 Circus cyaneus 1-5 C B C C A231 Coracias

garrulus P C B C C

A038 Cygnus cygnus R B B B B A429 Dendrocopos

syriacus P C B B B

A027 Egretta alba 51-100

B B B B

A026 Egretta garzetta 101-250

11-50 A B C B

A101 Falco biarmicus R C B C C A098 Falco

columbarius R C B C C

A095 Falco naumanni P C B C C A103 Falco

peregrinus R C B C C

A097 Falco vespertinus

P C B C C

A321 Ficedula albicollis

P C B C C

A442 Ficedula semitorquata

P C B C C

A154 Gallinago media P C B C C A002 Gavia arctica 6-10 B B B C A001 Gavia stellata 1 B B B C A189 Gelochelidon

nilotica R P C B C C

A135 Glareola pratincola

20 C B C C

A127 Grus grus V A B B B A087 Gyps fulvus R C B C C A075 Haliaeetus

albicilla 2 B B B B


P C B C C

A131 Himantopus himantopus

P C B C C

A418 Hoplopterus spinosus

35 A B B B

A022 Ixobrychus minutus

15 C B C C

A338 Lanius collurio P C B C C A339 Lanius minor 6-10 C B C C A433 Lanius nubicus 6-10 C B B B A180 Larus genei 11-50 C B C C A176 Larus

melanocephalus P P C B C C

A177 Larus minutus P C B C C A242 Melanocorypha

calandra 6-10 (p) C B C C

A068 Mergus albellus V C B C C A073 Milvus migrans R C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A074 Milvus milvus R A B B B A077 Neophron

percnopterus R C B C C

A159 Numenius tenuirostris

V A B B B

A023 Nycticorax nycticorax

P C B C C

A094 Pandion haliaetus

R B B C B

A020 Pelecanus crispus

6-10 C B B B

A392 Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii

P C B A B

A393 Phalacrocorax pygmeus

51-100

C B B B


P C B C C

A035 Phoenicopterus ruber

51-100

C B B B

A034 Platalea leucorodia

P C B C C

A032 Plegadis falcinellus

P C B C C

A140 Pluvialis apricaria

P C B C C

A007 Podiceps auritus

V D

A132 Recurvirostra avosetta

P C B C C

A195 Sterna albifrons 51-100

B B C B

A190 Sterna caspia P C B C C A193 Sterna hirundo P C B C C A191 Sterna

sandvicensis 11-50 C B C C

A397 Tadorna ferruginea

R A B B B

A166 Tringa glareola P C B C C Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF)

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Regularly occurring Migratory Birds not listed on Annex I of Council directive 79/409/EEC CODE NAME POPULATION SITE ASSESSMENT

Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A086 Accipiter nisus P C B C C A298 Acrocephalus

arundinaceus P C B C C

A296 �HYPERLINK "http://eunis.ee

P C B C C

A295 Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

P C B C C

A297 Acrocephalus scirpaceus

P C B C C

A168 Actitis hypoleucos

P C B C C

A247 Alauda arvensis

P C B C C

1103 Alosa fallax P B B C B A054 Anas acuta 251-

500 C B C C

A056 Anas clypeata 101-250

C B C C

A051 Anas crecca R C B C C A050 Anas penelope 251-

500 C B C C

A053 Anas platyrhynchos

P 101-250

C B C C

A055 Anas querquedula

P P A B C B

A051 Anas strepera R 6-10 A B C B A043 Anser anser R C B B B A039 Anser fabalis R A B B B A258 Anthus

cervinus P C B C C

A257 Anthus pratensis

P C B C C

A259 Anthus spinoletta

P C B C C

A256 Anthus trivialis P C B C C A226 Apus apus P C B C C A228 Apus melba P C B C C A028 Ardea cinerea 20 P C B C C A169 Arenaria

interpres P C B C C

A059 Aythya ferina 51-100

C B C C

A061 Aythya fuligula 1-5 C B C C A067 Bucephala

clangula R B B B B

A215 Buteo buteo 6-10 C B C C A088 Buteo lagopus R D A144 Calidris alba P C B C C A149 Calidris alpina 51-

100 C B C C

A147 Calidris ferruginea

P C B C C

A145 Calidris minuta P C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A146 Calidris

temminckii P C B C C

A365 Carduelis spinus

P C B C C

A268 Cercotrichas galactotes

P C B B B

A136 Charadrius dubius

P C B C C

A137 Charadrius hiaticula

P C B B B

A198 Chlidonias leucopterus

P C B B B

A211 Clamator glandarius

V C B B B

A373 Coccothraustes coccothraustes

P C B C C

A007 Columba oenas P C B B B A208 Columba

palumbus P C B C C

A348 Corvus frugilegus

P C B C C

A347 Coturnix coturnix

P C B C C

A212 Cuculus canorus

P C B C C

A036 Cygnus olor 1100 B B C B A253 Delichon urbica P C B C C A382 Emberiza

melanocephala P C B C C

A381 Emberiza schoeniclus

P P C B C C

A269 Erithacus rubecula

P C B C C

A099 Falco subbuteo P C B C C A322 Ficedula

hypoleuca P C B C C

A359 Fringilla coelebs

P P C B C C

A336 Fringilla montifringilla

P C B C C

A125 Fulica atra P >2000 C B C C A153 Gallinago

gallinago 11-50 C B C C

A130 Haematopus ostralegus

30 P B B C B

A438 Hippolais pallida

P C B C C

A252 Hirundo daurica P C B C C A251 Hirundo rustica P C B C C A341 Lanius senator P C B C C A183 Larus fuscus R C B C C A179 Larus

ridibundus 501-

1000 C B C C

A150 Limicola falcinellus

P C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A157 Limosa limosa P C B C C A292 Locustella

luscinioides P C B C C

A271 Luscinia megarhynchos

P C B C C

A152 Lymnocryptes minimus

R C B B B

A069 Mergus serrator 11-50 B B C B A230 Merops

apiaster P C B C C

A262 Motacilla alba P C B C C A261 Motacilla

cinerea P P C B C C

A260 Motacilla flava P C B C C A381 Muscicapa

striata P C B C C

A058 Netta rufina 1-5 C B C C A144 Numenius

arquata 51-

100 C B C C

A158 Numenius phaeopus

P C B B B

A435 Oenanthe isabellina

V C B B B

1360 Oenanthe oenanthe

P C B C C

A337 Oriolus oriolus P C B C C A214 Otus scops P C B C C A323 Panurus

biarmicus P C B C C

A415 Passer hispaniolensis

P P C B C C

A391 Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis

101-250

C B C C

A273 Phoenicurus ochruros

P C B C C

A377 Phoenicurus phoenicurus

P C B C C

A314 Phylloscopus sibilatrix

P C B C C

A316 Phylloscopus trochilus

P C B C C

A141 Pluvialis squatarola

P C B C C

A005 Podiceps cristatus

P C B C C

A006 Podiceps grisegena

V A B B B

A008 Podiceps nigricollis

P C B C C

A266 Prunella modularis

P C B C C

A013 Puffinus puffinus

V C B C C

A317 Regulus regulus

P C B C C

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Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage A249 Riparia riparia P C B C C A275 Saxicola

rubetra P C B B B

A155 Scolopax rusticola

P C B C C

A210 Streptopelia turtur

P C B C C

A283 Sturnus roseus P C B B B A283 Sturnus

vulgaris P C C B C C

A311 Sylvia atricapilla

P C B C C

A310 Sylvia borin P C B C C A364 Sylvia

cantillans P C B C C

A309 Sylvia communis

P C B C C

A308 Sylvia curruca P C B C C A306 Sylvia hortensis P C B C C A004 Tachybaptus

ruficollis R 101-

250 B B C B

A048 Tadorna tadorna

P P B B C B

A161 Tringa erythropus

P C B C C

A164 Tringa nebularia

P C B C C

A165 Tringa ochropus

P C B C C

A163 Tringa stagnatilis

P C B B B

A162 Tringa totanus P P C B C C A286 Turdus iliacus P C B C C A285 Turdus

philomelos P C B C C

A247 Turdus pilaris P C B C C A232 Upupa epops P C B C C A142 Vanellus

vanellus P P C B C C


MAMMALS listed on Annex II of Council directive 92/43/EEC


Resident Migratory

Population Conservation Isolation Global Breed Winter Stage 1355 Lutra lutra >11, <20 i B C A B Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF)

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Other Important Species of Flora And Fauna

GROUP SCIENTIFIC NAME POPULATION MOTIVATION

A Bufo bufo R C A Bufo viridis C C M Canis aureus P A B Cisticola juncidis P A R Coluber caspius P C R Coronella austriaca P C R Cyrtodactylus kotschyi V C R Elaphe longissima V C M Felis silvestris R C A Hyla arborea C C R Lacerta viridis C C R Malpolon monspessulanus R C M Martes foina P C M Meles meles P C R Natrix natrix C C R Natrix tessellata C C R Ophisaurus apodus P C P Pancratium maritimum P D A Pelobates syriacus C C B Phasianus colchicus P A M Pipistrellus nathusii P A R Podarcis taurica C C A Rana dalmatina P C A Rana graeca P C A Rana ridibunda C C A Salamandra salamandra P C P Salvinia natans P D M Sus scrofa C D A Triturus vulgaris C C R Vipera ammodytes P C M Canis lupus P A

(B=Birds, M=Mammals, A=Amphibians, R=Reptiles, P=Plants) Source: Compiled by NCC (2012) (adopted by GR1150010 SDF)

Date 06/2013

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