Site Summary

The Côte Bleue Marine Park (PMCB) is located between the bay of Marseille and the Gulf of Fos and occupies the coastal fringe of the Nerthe massif, a coastal line of 28 km for a 43 km coastline . The waters of the Blue Coast are characterized by significant upwellings, as well as alternating currents of East and West. PMCB has high ecological value and seascape and landscape quality, both terrestrial (creeks, cliffs, hills, scrubland, it is the 2nd largest area of ​​the Conservatoire du Littoral in mainland France after the Camargue) and various seascape attriobutes (incl. Coralligenous coral reefs with gorgonians and red coral, rock scree, dry offshore) .

Major Site Values & Outcomes

PMCB offers a wide variety of seascapes and landscapes and mosaic habitats (Posidonia meadow, coral reefs, caves) which are home to high biodiversity. There are about 100 species of heritage interest included in the Bern and Barcelona Conventions and more than 60 animal species protected by international agreements, including 15 protected at the national level ( bottlenose dolphin, cetaceans, large mother-of-pearl, diadem sea urchin, etc.). In total, there are 6 marine generic habitats and 19 basic habitats in the PMCB of Annex I of the DHFF Habitats Directive.

Numerous scientific surveys highlight the reserve effect on fish populations , particularly significant abundance of target species, inside the reserve than outside; greater abundance of large carnivorous fish; greater species diversity, with 1.4 times more fish species in the Reserve than outside (2011-2016 survey); increase in reproductive successes of fish species benefits fishing on the periphery of the reserves.

Conservation Summary

•  Site visit report
• No COIs declared
• EAGL consensus and vote: All in favour

EAGL statement:

• The consultation and governance put in place by the PMCB since the creation of the Park has allowed for strong association and support from stakeholders, particularly the municipalities located on the perimeter of the Park and the fishermen. 88% of professional fishermen consider themselves sufficiently involved in decisions. The effective governance implemented resulted in strong and active support from local stakeholders. The remarkably active participation of the Park in various scientific programs has helped to refine the knowledge and management of this natural area, the development of other planning documents (Natura 2000) reinforces this evolution. The economic and social context of the site is well known, and the threats that ensue. Regular and effective management is implemented by the PMCB, integrated into the socio-economic fabric of the territory. The pressures are the subject of appropriate management measures. The social and economic benefits generated by the site are recognized. Among the major conservation successes, it can be noted that the establishment of the two reserves and the artificial reefs of anti-trawling protection allowed the conservation of the priority habitats, and in particular the Posidonia meadow. A very significant reserve effect continues to increase. It should also be emphasized that the implementation of the sea classes has helped to raise the awareness of the vast majority of schoolchildren in neighboring municipalities for 20 years. Following the review of the Côte Bleue Marine Park nomination, members of the Green List Working Group welcomed the outstanding efforts of the team of managers for the conservation of the values ​​of the site and underlined the quality and the completeness of the file. The team achieves remarkable management despite a budget and reduced resources. From the point of view of governance, this file appears very interesting and be one of the best candidates for 2016-2017. All of the indicators are met or exceeded, the members of the working group unanimously voted in favor of the inscription of the Côte bleue Marine Park on the green list protected areas.

Reviewer Statement

Verification of the conformity of the necessary documents (conformance of format and form) and availability in COMPASS.

Verification of consistency of document dates

Verification of good use of COMPASS Portal by EAGL

Verification of used of panorama and protected portal

First analysis done 05/07/2017 based on audio file of EAGL meeting of 20/06/2017 and sent by EAGL the 25/04/2017 and final validation 20/10/2018

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