Collaboration Agreement for the Preservation of the Maspalomas Coastal Lagoon

Parties Involved

• Gestión y Planeamiento Territorial y Medioambiental, S.A. (Gesplan), a public company linked to the Canary Islands government
• University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC)

Purpose of the Partnership

• To jointly study and preserve the Maspalomas coastal lagoon
• Focus on protecting the habitat included in the Natura 2000 network

Ecosystem Threats

• Urbanization
• Pollution
• Invasive species
• Natural disturbances

Project Goals

• Assess the lagoon's biological and environmental state
• Monitor invasive species such as:
  • Blue crab
  • Mozambique tilapia
• Conduct monthly environmental monitoring including:
  • Water quality analysis
  • Species distribution
  • Trophic relationships
• Use advanced techniques like:
  • Stable isotope analysis
  • DNA metabarcoding
• Develop management plans and conservation protocols
• Restore this unique habitat

Importance and Principles

The agreement underscores the importance of scientific expertise in guiding local environmental policies, emphasizing the roles of both parties in data sharing, confidentiality, and responsible handling of personal and technical information.

Funding and Implementation

• Total funding of €58,024.04
• Funding covers the entire project with phased payments contingent on milestones

Significance

• Represents a significant step towards protecting endangered coastal ecosystems
• Fosters scientific research aligned with public environmental goals