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 it is essential that plants are not disturbed.
Other boards contain the site regulations prohibiting off-roading, camping, open fires and littering.
The public is reminded that setting fire to vegetation is arson, which is a crime, and can lead to serious degradation of the countryside. Visitors should also take care not to 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.
Some signs highlighting the importance of the sand dunes in Ramla were removed just days after being put up by some vandals or people who take issue with such important conservation measures.
The Foundation appeals 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. It appeals to visitors to these sites to assist the NGOs and the authorities by reporting any acts that are harmful without delay. The Ramla dunes are the most extensive on the islands, and if we allow these to be lost, they will be gone forever.
Control of invasive
alien species
The Gaia Foundation would like to inform the public that in the protected areas of Ghajn Tuffieha and Ramla, Gozo, some measures are being taken, in accordance with MEPA guidelines, to control the spread of invasive alien species that are damaging the natural habitats. In Ghajn Tuffieha, Acacia trees of 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 needs to be cut as it suppresses the rare sand dune species.