This Mediterranean site is home to critical ecosystems, including seagrass meadows, and is an essential location for conservation efforts. SUBMON, as part of the Blue Connect project, has taken its first steps in this remarkable location, aiming to protect and enhance its ecological value through conservation, research, and community engagement.
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The area
L’Albera demo site may cover just 5 hectares, but its importance to the Mediterranean’s ecological network is undeniable. The marine area houses a meadow of Neptune seagrass (Posidonia oceanica) and a small meadow of Zostera noltei, two keystone species of the Mediterranean Sea. The area’s proximity to other marine protected areas further enhances its significance, as it serves as a potential corridor for marine species migrating between the Cap de Creus Natural Park in northeastern Spain and ad-jacent French waters.
Despite its ecological importance, the site faces several challenges. Anchoring and abandoned mooring blocks pose significant threats to the seagrass meadows, and limited awareness of its protected status has hindered effective management. Recognizing these challenges, a marine stewardship agreement was established in 2021 between SUBMON, the local municipality, and the Government of Catalonia. This innovative agreement regulates all protective, conservation, restoration, and awareness initiatives conducted by SUBMON in this area, complementing efforts by local authorities and engaging the community in preserving this valuable marine environment.
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Goals and future activities
SUBMON’s work in L’Albera focuses on protecting its unique marine environment by supporting the development and improvement of science-based conservation objectives and measures.
Additionally, it involves studying its connectivity with nearby protected areas. This includes evaluating the potential expansion of the protected zone to encompass what is locally known as “L’Albera Marítima”, covering the coast of the northernmost Catalan municipalities of Llançà, Colera, and Portbou. Such an expansion would reinforce its role as a biological corridor, benefiting species that rely on seagrass habitats to migrate along the Spanish-French coastline.
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Active restoration
L’Albera is one of two demo sites within the Blue Connect project where active restoration efforts are being implemented. These efforts will begin with an outreach session to inform and involve the local community, followed by restoration trials focused on replanting Posidonia oceanica shoots torn up by storms. These trials will actively engage local residents, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the site’s preservation. Updates on these activities and their results will be shared as the project progresses.
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Engaging the community
Community involvement is a cornerstone of SUBMON’s approach in L’Albera. The project aims to inspire local residents to take an active role in preserving the area, both through educational initiatives and by directly involving them in restoration activities. This approach includes the establishment of a Local Stakeholder Working Group (LSWG), ensuring that local voices are heard and integrated into the co-management of the site.
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Looking ahead
L’Albera represents a small but vital link in the Mediterranean’s ecological chain. SUBMON’s efforts in this demo site, supported by the Blue Connect project, aim to secure its future through a combination of conservation, restoration, and community engagement. As the work progresses, further updates will be shared to highlight the outcomes of the restoration activities and other initiatives.
