As part of its coastal management work, The Gaia Foundation has recently installed new information signs in the protected areas of Ghajn Tuffieha and Ramla Bay, Gozo.

The signs inform visitors about the nature trails and the dune system where plants need to remain undisturbed. Other boards contain the site regulations, prohibiting off-roading, camping, open fires and littering.

Gaia reminded the public that setting fire to vegetation is arson, which is a crime, and can lead to serious degradation of the countryside. Visitors, said the foundation, make sure to not throw cigarette stubs into dry vegetation as it can catch fire very easily in the hot summer months.

The sites are regularly patrolled by the foundation, with the assistance of the Police Corps.

The foundation appealed to the public for its understanding and cooperation in preserving these areas of outstanding scenic beauty, that form part of the European natural heritage, the Natura 2000 Network.

Control of invasive alien species

The Gaia Foundation also informed the public that in the protected areas of Ghajn Tuffieha and Ramla, Gozo, some measures are being undertaken, in accordance with MEPA guidelines, to control the spread of invasive alien species that are damaging the natural habitats.

In Ghajn Tuffieha, Acacia trees from Australian origin need to be cut down, as these compete with the local flora. In Ramla, Gozo, the Great Reed, originally from Asia, is causing problems as it is spreading from the adjacent agricultural fields into the sensitive sand dunes. This highly invasive species need to be cut back as it suppresses the rare sand dune species.