Coral Reef Management Plan
Region: Middle East
Country: Sultanate Of Oman
Date: 1996
Funded By: Government of Oman
MEP were contracted to assist the Government of Oman with preparation of a comprehensive management plan for the country's coral reefs as part of their integrated CZM programme. An MEP coral and CZM specialist led a four-person dive team to assess the status and health of reefs in the critical areas of Musandam, Muscat, Sharqiya, Masirah Island/Barr al Hickman and Dhofar. The survey aimed to establish the current status and level of use of the reefs and identify sources of natural and human impacts. In addition, the team trained Ministry staff in reef surveying techniques, underwater photographic/video skills and integrated CZM. The resulting Coral Reef Action Plan included detailed proposals for marine protected areas, long-term monitoring, habitat improvements, public awareness programmes and a financing strategy to achieve long-term sustainability within the national CZM planning initiatives.