Norma Center

The core objective is to gather scientific data to produce a Guide that will update the outdated 2016 “Territorial Strategy of Shijak,” thereby aligning local development policies with ecological preservation. Key conservation targets include the Albanian water frog (Pelophylax shqipericus), Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), and Squacco heron (Ardeola ralloides)—all of which are either nationally or globally threatened.

Key Activities:

1. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • A kick-off meeting with farmers, fishermen, and local authorities to raise awareness and collect input.
   • A follow-up meeting with Shijak Municipality to present findings and advocate integration into territorial planning.

2. Biodiversity Monitoring:
   • Monthly field monitoring at four key stations around Kecve Lake.
   • Use of binoculars, trap cameras, multiparametric water quality sondes, and audio devices to record species and assess environmental health.
3. Environmental Awareness and Policy Output:
   • Active social media campaign (5–7 posts weekly).
   • Final public conference with up to 100 participants.
   • Installation of two educational “totem” information boards at the lake.
   • Development and distribution of a policy guide titled “How to Incorporate Environment and Biodiversity in the Territorial Strategy of Shijak.”

The project, led by environmental biologist Fabjola Selmani, will be implemented by the Norma Center, an Albanian NGO. It is supported by a grant from the Rufford Foundation and includes collaboration with local institutions and academic partners.

Ultimately, the project advocates for the recognition of artificial reservoirs as vital components of Albania’s biodiversity and calls for their integration into national conservation strategies.

The project AWREHT has concluded its first quarter and here are the results:

1.⁠ ⁠Kick-off Meeting concluded and our cherished stakeholders contributed through meaningful discussions

Stakeholders included the local community, Shijak Municipality, Administrative Unit of Xhafzotaj, Prefecture of Durres, Regional Agency of the Environment, Management Agency of Water Resources, PPNEA and EcoAlbania.

2.⁠ ⁠Expeditions brought the foreseen results with most of the endangered species highlighted in the proposal and more

The endangered species confirmed in the study site are Ardeola ralloides, Nycticorax nycticorax, Ardea cinerea, Buteo buteo, Pelophylax kurtmuelleri, Pelophylax shqipericus, Emys orbicularis, Mauremis rivulata, and more. More data were collected regarding climate, vegetation, terrain and human disturbance.

3.⁠ ⁠Environmental stressors identified in the study site and reported to the authorities

Detailed report through water analysis to measure the impact and accompanying photos of the human activities which were delivered with proper explanation to the authorities

4.⁠ ⁠Our Normad Volunteers involved in promoting the project and learning the methodology used in monitoring of the tetrapods

Examples of the social media posts, dividing responsibilities within the volunteers, as well as the workshop organized on-site to spread the methodology of the project in young nature enthusiasts

5.⁠ ⁠Digital Campaign to raise awareness for Artifical Habitats and their importance

Various posts and stories designed carefully by the Normads have been keeping our Social Media active for 4 months. The information of our materials covers fauna, flora, partners, activities, relevant legislation and landscape appreciation.

6.⁠ ⁠Various challenges and the corresponding mitigation efforts explained thoroughly

Like any project, the team was faced with different barriers for which we found alternatives.

For more details, please visit the link to access our Interim Project Progress Report: