Ifira Marine Protected Area

Manage m e nt P lan

Photo credit: Australian Defense Force

Prepared by IMM Team

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Acknowledgment

The Ifira Marine Management (IMM) team would like to extend its deepest appreciation to the
many individuals, community leaders and organizations that provided valuable perspectives,
ideas and support throughout the process. These valuable contributions have given rise to the
IMMA management plan; namely The Ifira Council Of chiefs, IPDS board, ILC [Ifira Land
Corporation] CEFAS, JICA, DOE, DOF, OZZIE KLEEN, Pakoa Kaltongga and Richard Kaltongga.
IMM appreciates your support.

The analysis and deliberations were greatly benefited by consultations with communities which
provided guidance and advice required to developing marine resource security and biodiversity
restoration within the Ifira marine protected area, including the wider Port Vila harbor area.
IMM extends its sincere gratitude for the dedication and technical rigor of those who took part
in this, led by exceptional Individuals with assistance from relevant government authorities.

The Management Plan which serves as the guide for implementing, monitoring and reporting is
all together an achievement for the people of Ifira and the wellbeing of the marine environment
within Vanuatu’s own capital Port Vila city.

IMM extends its sincere gratitude for the dedication and technical rigor of those who took part.
The drafting of this plan and the supporting background context reports was undertaken by
tireless and dedicated people of whom have sacrifice and dedicate their work in protecting the
environment and natural resources with support from relevant authorities. All Contributions and
support received are gratefully acknowledged and appreciated.

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Table of contents

Ifira Marine Protected Area 1

Management Plan 1
Acknowledgment 2
Table of Contents 3
Acronym 4
1. Background 5
1.1 Ifira Island 6
1.1.1 Governance of the Island 6
1.1.2 Family Clan/warkali 7
1.1.3 Religion 7
1.1.4 Education & accomplishments 7
1.1.5 Socio-economic impacts 8
1.2 Purpose 8
1.3 History of ICCA 8
1.4 Site description 9
1.4.1 Habitats Ecosystems and Climate Change Impacts 9
1.4.2 Key Significant Species 10
1.4.3 Threats 11
2. Aims and Objective 11
3. ICCA Map 12
4. Structure of Management Team 13
4.1 Roles of the teams for the management of IMPA. 13
5. Responsible Agency for the Coral Offsets 14
6. IMPA ACTION Plan 16
6.1 IMPA ACTION Plan for Replacement of Septic tanks 19
7. IMM Management Matrix 20
7.1 Management Rules and By Laws 21
7.1.1 Zone 1: General Use Zone (GUZ)/ Akses Solwota Eria (ASE) 21
7.1.2. Zone 2: Community Conservation Area (CCA)/ Kastom Manejmen Eria (KME) 22
7.1.3. Zone 3: Sustainable Use Zone (SUZ)/Garen Solwota Eria (GSE) 22
7.1.4 Zone 4: Limited Use Zone (LUZ)/ Neseri Solwota Eria (NeSE) 23
7.1.5. Zone 5: No-take Zone (NTZ)/ Notek Eria (NoTE) 23
7.1.6 Zone 6: Special Zone (SZ)/ Spesel Solwota Eria (SSE) 23
7.1.7General 23
8. Green Fee Shedule 24
9. Offences and penalties 25
10. Endorsements & Support 26
11. Appendices 33

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Acronyms
IMMA Ifira Marine Managed Area
IMPA Ifira Marine Protected Area(s)
DEPC Department of Environment Protection and Conservation
VFD Vanuatu Fisheries Department
DLA Department of Local authority
DOF Department of Forestry
DoWR Department of Water Resources
ICCA Community Conservation Area
MCS Monitoring, Compliance, Surveillance
VPMU Vanuatu Project Management Unit
JICA Japan International Corporation Agency
TRC Tagabe River Catchment
TBR To Be Replaced
DLA Department of Local Authority
OMR Office of the maritime regulator
IMM Ifira Marine Management
VNSO Vanuatu national statistics office
NCD Non Communicable Disease
SPREP Secretariat to the South Pacific Regional Environment Program EIA

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1. Background
Ifira Marine Management Committee, a community based NGO, was designated by paramount Chief
and Council members of Ifira Island to solely look after the marine ecology and to address issues for the
contribution to the wellbeing of the marine environment within Port-Vila bay.
Over the years concerns have been raised about the quality of the water that surrounds Ifira Island.
In response to these concerns, there have been several water quality assessments, such as those
conducted by the Department of Fisheries and Environment research divisions for data collection in Port
Vila Harbour.
The current water quality of Port Vila bay is heavily contaminated because of less supervision to
unwarranted and illegal practices related to the water. Oil spillage, hull scrubbing, and rubbish dumping
from domestic ships, ocean liners and boats are the practices that lead the contaminations. Moreover,
the water quality has been heavily contaminated by coliform bacteria, diffusion of septic tanks and
water drainage systems in coastal areas are accounted for such increase in bacterial contaminants.
Heavy septic odour and coliform residue were being identified on drainage outlet at residential and
commercial areas along the coastline.
Surveys have also been carried out by Axiom Water Technologies for the Department of Geology, Mines
and Water Resources and Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science under the
Commonwealth Marine Economies Programme. The findings show significant coastal water quality
issues related to sewage and storm water drainage and highlight the immediate need for Actions to be
carried out and addressed.
These findings show that coastal water quality is contaminated from sewage and storm water runoff,
with high inputs of sewage and urban pollution. There is minimal supervision on unwarranted and
illegal practices occurring within the IMPA which can further impact on the sea-water quality and
marine environment. Excessive pollution and sediments can impact on the marine ecosystems within
the IMPA, already facing years of non-regulated pollution runoff and already heavily degraded at present
within the area. On-going pollution will drive the ecosystem even further into deterioration.
Additionally, the coastal ecosystem has seen excessive contamination by coliform bacteria through the
numerous unsolicited and un-monitored coastal septic and storm water drainage systems over decades.
Heavy odours and coliform contamination have been identified and associated with the various
drainage outlets amongst residential and commercial areas along the coastline. Assessments of water
quality and human health concerns were raised through IMM awareness and capacity enhancement
program.
Oil spillage, vessel hull scrubbing, and the dumping of rubbish over board from boats, domestic ships
and ocean liners are some of the activities that contribute to the marine pollution and contamination
of the marine environment within the harbour. These activities must be identified and mitigated and
an effective approach must be taken to address the situation to ensure long term health of the marine
ecosystem and the communities that depend and value this unique ecosystem.
These results emphasise the need to improve coastal water quality and the marine environment and
to maintain the high conservation values of Port Vila harbour. To being this process, the Management
Committee has taken necessary steps to register the IMPA in supporting the Ifira community relating to
NSDP pillar platforms. Plans to tackle these issues include reduction of pollution run-off through
improved infrastructure, monitoring and assessment of the impacts and to undertake mitigation
measures such as the replanting of trees and corals reefs in identified areas.

Water quality reports from assessments conducted by Axiom Water Technologies Pty Ltd for Roughton
International Limited for the specific purposes of the Port Vila Urban Development Project as
administered by the Vanuatu Project Management Unit (VPMU).

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/commonwealth-marine-economies-cme-programme-vanuatu

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On the other hand, it was predicted that Lapetasi International Wharf Development Project was funded by
JICA effects on corals ecosystem, and certain amount of corals were transplanted to a safer place in Port-Vila
bay as a mitigation measure against the impact. However, more than 50% of transplanted corals were dead
according to the environmental monitoring reports of the VPMU, the executing agency of the project.
While expansion of construction area was proposed during the implementation period of the project and
additional damage of corals was reported. In this circumstance, to compensate these corals loss,
implementation coral offset through creating small scale protected area at the sites which shows
mechanically damaged corals, good access to transport, higher offset ability and lower dependency to the
coral resources within IMPA was agreed between VPMU and JICA with the endorsement of IMPA and IMM
Committee. The sites agreed is Ifira East coast (17°44,55.1”S/168°17,56.6E and 17°44,55.8”S/168°17,56.3E;
See Pins No. 16 and 17 in the map of Fig.2(page 15) and Fatumaru bay (17°44,03.2”S/168°18,34.8E,
17°43,59.0”S/168°18,33.4E and 17°44,02.6”S/168°18,29.3E;

IMPA Management Committee’s prime onus will be on assisting the Ifira community to work closely with the
relevant government authorities including Fisheries Research divisions to identify and address IMPA
priorities and activities in the development of its action plan. The IMPA activities will involve working, with
the relevant ministries to reduce coastal pollution and to develop strategies focused on marine
rehabilitation and to promote economy and environmental pillar platforms. Eco-tourism will also have the
added bonus of assisting and contributing to the national strategic aims and objectives of the Vanuatu
Tourism Industry. As custodians of the IMPA the Ifira Community have an inherent responsibility to protect
and preserve its natural resources. It is our view that the establishment of this IMMA in Port Vila harbour is
an important step in proper management of resources and would provide support to the over-arching
National Plans such as the National Sustainable Development Plan,NSDP pillar 2 Environment platform

Togethr with our ancestors we have lived in harmony with our natural surroundings for many millennia.
Today we face increasing development pressures exacerbated by globalization and the decline of traditional
resource governance. These pressures threaten the very environment that secures the basics of life - food,
water and energy systems. Our rich natural beauty also presents a key to our shared prosperity, including
through a wealth of natural tourism assets we possess as part of our nations natural heritage. With this Ifira
marine managed area IMMA, within the Port Vila Harbor, all this is borne directly at the forefront. The IMPA
is right at the doorstep of Vanuatu’s Capital City; Port Vila, which makes it uniquely situated, and possibly
one of a kind in Vanuatu and the South Pacific. Highlighting the relevance of this unique ecosystem is
important for all of Vanuatu

1.1 Ifira Island

Ifira Island is situated in the front of Port Vila harbour, located in South Efate, in Shefa province, Vanuatu.
The Island is 2.96 kilometres long and has a population of less than 2,000 people.
The island and its inhabitants have long played an important role in this nation’s history in embracing change
for development, sacrificing national attributes for the good of Vanuatu, such being so that the nation’s
capital city was founded upon the Vila harbour shores, and has had dramatic impacts on today’s living
trends, livelihood and the environment of Ifira Island.

1.1.1 Governance of the Island

In the structured Governance system of Ifira Island, the highest authority is given to the Paramount Chief
namely Mantoi Kalsakau III, and seven (7) council member alongside supportive five (5) clan chiefs as well
as representatives of “Matarau” clan, therefore series of consultations to those party are mandated when
creating a new rule of community in the Island. The Governance chain of Authorities must transpire and
disseminate information from the top with the Chief and his council and clan chiefs through to the Area
Council then churches and from there to the different family members.

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The Chief’s Council

Terilki Chief Paunimanu Mantoi Kalsakau III

Tasila Asst. Chief Daniel Kalorib
Basea looks after community land Witeu sope
Munuairiki Advisor Bakoa Kaltongga
Namangsara Secretary/clerical Eddy Kalpukai
Maurongoana Messenger/vocal Kalosike Kalterekia
Maseimanu Chief Police Killion Taiwia (deceased) TBR
Jinawota Community Nakamal Janito Tasau kara (deceased) TBR

The 5 Tribe (Naflak)

Blak Wita Octopus Represented by Clan chief Ben Kalpukai

Blak Naniu Coconut Represented by Clan Chief Hendon Kalsakau
Blak Malu Yam (1) Represented by Clan Chief Tapala Lauru
Blak Nawi Yam (2) Represented by Clan Chief Virasen Bakokoto
Blak Makanu Yam (3) Represented by Clan Chief Eddy kalpukai

1.1.2 Family Clan/warkali

Family Clan Identified in different surnames were arranged to follow patri-lineal system through marriage
and birth right. Most Families are interrelated through exchange of land and marriage; thus it creates a bond
which nevertheless truly defines the way different families and Clans co-existed.
Existing family Clans are;

Albert; Aiong; Bakokoto; Chichirua; Feandre; Itongga; Kalsakau; Kiri; Kalpuaso; Korikalo; Kalorib; Kara;
Kalpukai; Kalterekia; Kaltabang; Kalfau; Kalfabun; Kalpilelu; Kalworai; Lauru; Mototourua; Mangawai;
Napakaurana; Sope/Kaltongga; Sualo; Saurei; Sablan; Taiwia; Toro; Tulangi/Meneai; Tokotake;

The family Clans members have customary ownership of land and sea within IMMA and are proud of

relationship and connection to the IMMA, therefore we must protect our natural resources to ensure that
the future generation will continue to benefit from these resources and be proud of their cultural identity.

1.1.3 Religion
From records, stories and archived memorabilia, people from Ifira have been the focus for missionary work
from the early 1800 - 1900’s and transferring this work to other parts of the archipelago. The Island has a
long history for missionary work delivered across in different religious platforms. The Presbyterian Church
was the main denomination during the colonial era when people started to follow many different doctrines
and denominations. Existing denominations now include Presbyterian; Assemblies of God (AOG); Seventh
Day Adventist (SDA); Baptist Church; and Neil Thomas Ministries (NTM)

1.1.4 Education & accomplishments

Ifira Island has produced great leaders from past to present in the field of business, politics, theology, and
sociology. The islanders were the first to be engaged in British and French curriculum during the colonial
era and were taught well, utilising their strict disciplinary practices to make Ifira one of the role models of
development in the South Pacific

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Today Ifira Island has produced many important individuals who have contributed significantly to Vanuatu’s
economy, business and political accomplishments. Ifira Island teaches bilingual languages with both French
and English being taught to people from all over the country.

1.1.5 Socio-economic impacts

For Ifira community in the early 70’s and 80’s, women and men had very local and healthy resources to food
and traditional necessities. Nowadays, there is a trend for families to eat more processed and unhealthy
foods, leading to increased NCD’s and contributing to high death rates.HTTP://VNSO.gov.vu. The traditional
ways of mothers, such as collection of marine resources such as shellfish and shells has been depleted, and
impacted on the community to be able to produce locally made products and handicrafts for sale. There are
now more products sold in shops which has contributed to the Ifira community losing their traditional way
of collecting food. Pollution is one of the main contributors to the change of livelihood pattern, however the
area must be addressed to identify possibilities of reducing associated effects.

The community of Ifira rely on a variety of marine species for daily consumption which includes mackerel,
sardines and other tropical reef fish to maintain a daily balanced diet. Most Villagers particularly mothers,
rely heavily on tourism businesses with fathers depending on casual labour activities, this prevalent scenario
in Ifira society is what contributes to sustaining a family on the island, and the changes that are currently
occurring are impacting severely on the fathers and mothers being able to continue to feed and support
their families. Dependency on marine resources for food, medicine and income is common place and needs
to be properly managed and sustained for the good of the whole Ifira community.

1.2Purpose
The purpose of this management plan is to guide the IMPA and its stakeholders in implementing actions
plans, enforcing management regulations and MCS operations within the IMPA.

1.3 History of ICCA

DATE EVENT

July 1998 The official declaration was made for establishment of community conservation
area (hereafter, no effort was put in place to monitor, comply & do survey work on
site) .

August 2016 Re- enact (re-establish) the marine conservation scheme and to propose to Chief a
nd council to urgently consider Conservation Programs and the activities required
to conserve CCA.

2017 Coordinated a Voluntary Monitoring compliance and surveillance programs on

coastal communities of Malapoa, Tebakor and Blacksands
Met with DEPC to discuss formal registration of Ifira Community Conservation Area.

2018 VFD made awareness for the people of Ifira Island.

DEPC met with the Council of chiefs of Ifira.

2018 On registration process with the department of environment

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1.4 Site description
The proposed Protected area is within the customary boundary belonging to the people of Ifira. The area is
well known for sightings of whales and dolphins and other marine mammals. The area has auxiliary shelter
to many of the sea mammals and the frequency of sightings is high in the vicinity of protected area. Dugongs
and turtles are also seen feeding on the important sea grass communities that are within the harbour.
However, although the declaration of the protected area was done in 1998, the area has not been respected
due to the coastline area being densely populated and comprising many different communities, island back-
grounds and ethnicities. Many of these communities have been depending on this marine and coastal area
by collecting food resources and generated income through the use of unsustainable methods of resource
harvesting and not respecting the taboo that was declared by the chiefs. This has meant that the protected
area has not been adequately adhered to and now faces many issues around sustainability of those marine
resources.
This site is within the heart of the capital city and as custodians of the area, we are required to ensure a
pristine environment for everyone in perpetuity.

1.4.1 Habitats Ecosystems and Climate Change Impacts

The protected area consists of important habitats and ecosystems, including coral reefs, sea grass, sand, and
mangrove ecosystems, brackish water areas and a shelved lagoon. These habitats are home to a rich variety
of marine species which the people in surrounding areas, including Ifira, depend on. According to a recent
report (Darryn McEvoy, 2017 ) the communities of Ifira and Blacksand are highly dependent on their marine
resources as Ifira has the highest dependency on marine resources with 98% of the households surveyed
depending on their marine resources. The most important marine resources is fish, followed by sand, coral
and shell fish. The mangrove and sea grass beds in the area also provides a good nursery site for fish and
other marine species.

coastal ecosystems based on variability of reef conditions, related not only to nearby population density but
also to factors such as accesibility, exposure to natural disturbances, predator outbreaks, tidal influence,
condition of coastal adjacent habitat, and position in relation to river and point source discharges.
observation from divers indicate low fish abundance on all reefs in particular of piscivores (snappers and
groupers) and large herbivores (parrot fish). some port vila coralreefs have shown resilience to disturbances.
however increasing pressure may compromise the ability of port vila's reefs and surrounding area to recover.
(SPREP port vila Ecosytems, climate change and development scenarios)

climate change effect on marine ecosytems impacts for IMPA will depend strongly on how global green
house emissions reduction policy and technology develop. future temperaturerise in port vila region is
expected to be somewhat slower than the global average rate, but all future scenarios show temperature
rising significantly above what has been observed in recent decades. even with moderate warming
scenarios, the occurrence of extreme events increases rapidly. sea level rise is evidently increasing within
IMPA and swift counter measures should be adressed to combat coastal degradation. sea level in the
western tropical pacific has risen at around 4-5mm/year over the past 20 years faster than the global mean
rate of 3.3mm/year.

Absorbtion of carbon dioxide by the oceans make ocean water more acidic and reduces the availability of
calcium carbonate in the water column, interfering with coral growth and shell formation. Reef health may
become marginal by 2030, if significant global reductions is not achieved.
(SPREP port vila Ecosytems, climate change and development scenarios)

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1.4.2 Key significant species
Invertebrates
Common name Scientific name Bislama name Language IUCN status
Clams Tridacna.crosea Natalae Tuktarai
Clams Tradicana maxima Natalae matnisala
Green snail Turbo marmoratus Krin snel Amata’ali
Surf red fish Actinopyga mauritiana Si kukamba Kibori
Sea cucumber Stichopus chloronotus Si kukamba Kibori Least concern
Tiger fish Boadschia argus Si kukamba Kibori
Prickly red fish Thelonota ananas Si kukamba kibori
Flower fish Pearsonothuria graeffei Si kukamba kibori
Crown of thorns Acanthaster planci Rabis star fis Wilema
Trochus Tectus niloticus Troka Alela
Octopus Octopoda Spp nawita Tefeke
Sea urchin Tripneustes gratilla Rabis star fis lewariki
Fish
Doublebar Acanthurus nigroris Mustas fis Nisusu
goatfish
Parrot Fish Bolbometopon maricatum Blu fish Malakesa
Reef Shark Carchorius malanopterus Sak Mongo
Mullet Mugilidae Spp Malet Kanae
Scad makerel Scatophagus sp Mangru Tepuma
Rabbit fish Aulostomus spp Piko Vinjara
Reef snapper Lethrinus Spp Red mouth blo rif Tengisu
Wrasse Cirrhilabrus Spp Glisfish Poetengaru
Trevally Caranx Spp Karong Malakai
Scad Sardinops Spp Sadins Tepele
TRIGGER FISH Rhinecanthus Spp Strong skin Sumaetonga
Grouper Scolopsis Spp Los Pautabu
Grouper (red) Cephalopholis Spp Red los Pautabu mea
BONITO Sardine Spp Bonito Bonito
Surgeon fish Acanthurus Spp Strong skin Rae
Brick soldier fish Myripstis Spp red tengisu
Morish idol Zanclus cornutus Kalakala fis blo reef talimoru
Puffer fish Chnthigaster Palun fis poka
Fusilier Pomacentrus Spp Blue night mangru Tepuma
Coral bream Scolopsis Spp Brim Matawai telesi
Black surgeon Ctehochaetus Spp Poket knaef fis Tema
redish big eye Blaen fish Teika numea
Yellow reef Lutjanus Spp Sone Battie
snapper
Mamals
Dugong Dugon dugon Kaofis Pokontasi

Green totel Chelonia mydas Grin Totel Tefonu kesakesa Endangered

Hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata Totel Tefonu Critically
Endangered
Sea Birds
Andea sacra Reef Heron Long Nek Takilkili

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1.4.3 Threats
Tourism is a very important part of the national and port vila economy and a major employer. It is also
a strong driver of the ecosystem service demand in some areas (particulaly in terms of food, water, and
energy provisions) and a leading user of building services and materials. Resort development in and around
around port vila, often situated on coastal land, has been responsible for the destruction of some
mangroves and coastal forest habitat. Industrial activity in vanuatu is heavily concentrated in port vila and a
number of potentially polluting sources were identified, particularly located at the
lower tagabe catchment. Sand mining for construction occurs widely and maybe a cause for beach
erosion. Infrastructure in port vila is under significant pressure, and this could lead to a decline in
environmental quality and ecosystems service provisions. Innadequate water and sewarage supply, roading,
and waste management are seen as key infrastructure deficiencies.
(SPREP port vila Ecosytems, climate change and development scenarios)
Contaminants and pollutants may enter waterways and the sea, through identifiable sources such as
sewage systems and outlets, drainage systems and outlets, and uncontrolled rubbish dump sites.
Unregulated waste water discharge from industry and settlement along the river, direct dumping of
rubbish, human waste, riverside and seaside toilets, has degraded coastal marine habitats in areas along
Blacksand and Tebakor (McEvoy et al.16).
Other threats facing the IMPA are; coastal erosion, clearing of coastal vegetation, sedimentation, illegal
rubbish disposal and overfishing. The rapid increase in population within Port Vila city and surrounding
suburban area has put increased pressure on marine resources. The increase in population leads must be
managed to control and address important resource management issues.
Coral Reefs need good water quality and clear waters to survive. The impact of pollution from Tagabe River
and the removal of mangroves from Blacksands and Tebakor area have directly impacted the coral reefs,
conditions rated as poor with 0 to less than 25% coral coverage (Victoria university wellington, 2017).
Furthermore, there has not been a comprehensive ecological assessment, on the range of freshwater fish,
invertebrates, eels and frogs that reside in Ifira freshwater ecosystems (Amos 2017).
Major threats within the IMPA are the intrusion of storm-water, lack of infrastructure around the
sewage systems leading to high concentrations of sediments, nutrients, chemicals, and bacterial
contamination.
All these pollutants discharge into the coastal waters and impact on the IMPA ecosystems and threatening
the survival of corals, seagrasses and the marine species that depend on these habitats. The impacts of
pollution on the ecosystems and subsequent food chain are yet to be determined.
2. Aims and Objective
• Improve coastal areas and provide activities on resillience and adaptation to climate change impacts
• Improve habitats for marine spieces of dugongs and green turtles
• Enhance breeding grounds for vertebrates and invertebrates
• Strengthened Monitoring Compliance and Surveillance operations within the area
• collaborate with relevant authorities and adress priorities according to the action plans.
• regulate and apply effective management of the IMPA marine resources.

The event and activities coordination is developed with the assistance of DEPC. These activities will
encourage people of local community especially men, women, children and youth to engage in
resource management and conservation activities to better manage, control and sustain marine
resources within the ICCA. An additional key objective is to improve compliance capacity and
information dissemination related to resource management and conservation. The team will also
implement activities to address the impacts of Climate Change, through environmentally sound,
adaptation and mitigation programs. These activities and programs form an integral part of
conservation, providing incentives for protection and security to eco-tourism business initiatives that may
lead to a sustainable use of marine resource for the benefit of communities, the Government and future
generation.
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3. ICCA Map
The area covers a 14.5Km coastline stretch from Wotarua to Sonu.

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 4. Structure of management team
A management team was structured in consultation with Ifira Chief and Council members as a custodian of
the ICCA. The team members are IMM management committee, Government agencies, relevant partners,
and stakeholders. The Government agencies are consisting of VFD and DEPC. The IMM community has
assisted resource management meeting that was organized by Ifira community and consequently IMPA was
approved on the 21st of January 2017. The management team will carry out the activities proposed in
Action Plan with assistance from stakeholders as stated in the action plan below. The management
committee will also implement activities to address the impacts of Climate Change through environmental
sound adaptation and mitigation programs. The program forms an integral part of conservation, providing
incentives for protection that may lead to a sustainable use of marine resource for the benefit of
communities, the Government and future generation.

Fig 1.1 Incorporated team structure

Chief and Council members

Ifira Marine Protected area

Government Authorities Management Committee Partners & stakeholders
[IMM]

Champions/work committees/group

4.1 Roles of the teams for the management of IMPA.

4.1.1 Chief and Council members
Chief and Council member will provide advices and mandates on any activities and initiatives in line with
the IMPA management rules in section 6 of this document.
4.1.2 IMPA management committee
The IMPA management committee takes all responsibility to implement the IMPA management plan
together with partners & stakeholders on Monitoring, Compliance and surveillance operations within the
IMPA boundary.
4.1.3 Stakeholders / Partners
Deliver assistance and technical expertise to tackle to the issues in IMPA such as pollution control, eco-tour-
ism promotions, addressing with climate change impacts, coral reef restoration (including coral offset) and
any important habitats conservations.
4.1.4 Government
Provide technical assistance and support towards IMPA action plans implementation. VFD oversees protect-
ed marine species and DEPC enforces the Environment Protection and Conservation act in the proposed
IMPA.
4.1.5 IMPA Custodians
Provide field assistance on Monitoring Compliance and Surveillance MCS operations and reports directly to
IMPA management committee.
4.2 IMPA management committee
The IMPA management committee has been appointed by the Paramount Chief to oversee the
implementation of the IMPA management plan as well as to ensure compliance enforcement and
awareness of the plan. The member of IMPA management committee is as follows;
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 Office bearer Name Role

Chairman Edward Kalsakau IMM Asst. Manager & Coordinator

Vice Chairman Nelson Bakokoto Tanvasoko Environment Officer
Treasurer Rodney Varsino Sope IMM Field Head Supervisor
Vice treasurer Witeu Sope Ifira Council member
Secretary Milton Rutau Kaltongga IMM Project Manager
Vice Secretary Eddy Kalpukai Ifira Council member
Member Kalosike Kalterekia Ifira Council member

4.3 Terms of committee

The committee’s term is fixed however in any case, a member can submit a resignation letter to the IMPA
management committee by stating the reason for resignation. A nomination will be done by the Chairman
of the committee for replacement of committee member.

4.4 Term of Management plan

This management plan will be reviewed after 2 years of implementation However where necessary an
amendment can only be done together with the IMPA Management Committee.

5. Responsible agency for the coral offset

VPMU takes all responsibility to coordinate and supervise the coral offset. However, VPMU needs to gradu-
ally hand over the responsibility of coral offset to IMM since the responsibility of natural resource
management belongs to IMM and VPMU is temporal governmental organization for the infrastructure
projects. Therefore, VPMU will prepare an action plan for transition of the responsibility and share it with
JICA for prior checking. -

VFD will technically support VPMU and IMM to prepare, install and maintain the signboards and marker
buoys, and to monitor the environment of the offset site by providing equipment and by assigning skilled
personnel.
VPMU and IMM are responsible for patrolling and monitoring of the offset site and for taking collective
actions if any issues and problems arose during the implementation period of the offset.

DEPC will provide advices to VPMU and IMM for revision of management plan and monitoring plan of the
offset site. Additionally, DEPC and DOWR will make collective actions against the issues and problems arose
in relation to the environment and water quality of the offset site respectively.

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 Offset site

Fig.2 Map of Port-Vila bay and candidate offset sites (circles, quadrangular circle, and yellow
pins indicates candidate offset sites, affected site and surveyed sites respectively)

Table 2. Comparison of ecological condition between affected site and Candidate offset sites

While, state of freshwater ecosystems that inhabit freshwater fish, invertebrates, eels and frogs reside,
impacts of pollution on these ecosystems and subsequent food chain mechanism is yet to be determined
because comprehensive ecological assessment have not been conducted around Port-Vila bay. The IMPA
committee in collaboration with stakeholders will put together an action plan and implement activities to
assessed proposed sites and zoning of the area.
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6. IMPA ACTION Plan
The ICCA committee with stakeholders will engage with support for the following activities;

Activities Responsible Supportive/Co-op- Timeframe Resources needed

agency erative agency

Set up monitoring IMM, Vanuatu Ifira Community, 2019 Funds

stations along Fisheries Communities Of
proposed CCA, lim- department Port Vila, Office of
ited use Zones, No the maritime
Take Zones, Special regulator,
Zones for MCS Department of
operation Ports

Remove rubbish IMM VFD, DEPC, Com- Wetlands Day ( Funds and human
along the coastline munities of port 2 February ),En- resources
proper rubbish Vila, Ifira com- vironment Week
disposal system munity and Other ( 5 June ), World
stakeholders if Cleanup day
necessary ( September )
2020-2030

Removal of Marine IMM DEPC, VFD, NGO’s, Annually Funds, Equipment

Invasive Species i.e CBO’s
Crown of Thorns
and other invasive
species

Redesign of rain IMM Public Works 2020-20130 Funds

water drainage Dept NGOs, Shefa Engineer &
system and sewage province, Port Vila achitects
drainage system of municipal office
Port-Vila City

16
Activities Responsible Supportive/Co-op- Timeframe Resources needed
agency erative agency

biodiversity assess- IMM DEPC, VFD, NGO’s, 2020 Funds, Human

ment to determine Forestry resource
the species
occurrence and
abundance

monitoring, IMM NGO, DEPC, VFD, ongoing Funds, Human

compliance and Maritime resource
surveillance surveillance
operations

Prepare, install, IMM DEPC, VFD, Ifira By June 2019 Budget of VPMU,
and maintain the Community, For- (based on agree- Human resources
signboards and estry, NGO’s CBOs ment between of VFD and VPMU,
buoys JICA and VPMU Equipment, funds

coastal reforesta- IMM VFD, DEPC, ongoing Human resources,

tion of coastal Forestry, Shefa equipment, Funds
plants species Province , Port Vila
Adressing climate municipal office,
change adaptation NGO’s ,CBO
and mitigation

Seek partnerships IMM Ongoing Human resources

with other NGO’s
and relevant Gov-
ernment depart-
ments

17
Activities Responsible Supportive/Co-op- Timeframe Resources needed
agency erative agency

Monitor Quality of DoWR IMM Ongoing Human resource,

water in Port Vila equipment’s
Habour

Monitor the eco- VPMU and IMM VFD, DOWR Annual Budget of VPMU,
logical and so- Human resources
cio-economic en- of VPMU, VFD and
vironment as well DOWR
as management
activities of coral
offset site, using
monitoring format
agreed between
VPMU and JICA
(see attachment)
Revision the ICCA VPMU, IMM and DEPC June 2020 Human resources
management plan DEPC of VPMU, IMM and
(at least for coral DEPC
offset sites to
determine the area
and time required
for the offsetting)

Establish a ICCA IMM DEPC. 2018-2020 Funds, Human

marine resource resources , Equip-
center for in- ment
creased under-
standing and
knowledge in
Marine resource
management
Prepare an action VPMU JICA and IMM December 2019-20 Human resources
plan for transition of VPMU
of the responsibil-
ity of offset to the
IMM and share it
with JICA for prior
checking

18
6.1 IMPA ACTION Plan for Replacement of Septic tanks
Water quality has been heavily contaminated by coliform bacteria because septic tanks and water drainage
systems in coastal area as per survey done by Axiom Water Technologies for the Department of Geology,
Mines and Water Resources . Heavy septic odor and coliform residue were being identified on drainage
outlet at residential and commercial areas along the coastline. Our recommendation is to have all septic
tanks replaced with Sewage Treatment Plant that are capable of a minimum advance secondary effluent
with above ground irrigation

The replacement of septic tanks is the responsibility of Ifira Land Management Ltd.

Activities Responsible Supportive/Co-op- Timeframe Resources needed

agency erative agency
New domestic and Builder, Home Government, 2020 Policies and Legis-
commercial owner,developer OzziKleen lation
building
Stage 1 ILM , IMM, Gov De- 40% - 2022 Funds, policies,
(refer 5.2 map) partments, NGO’s, 75% - 2025 legislation
OzziKleen 100% - 2030

Stage 2 ILM IMM, Gov Depart- 40% - 2022 Funds, policies,

(refer 5.2 map) ments, NGO’s, 75% - 2025 legislation
OzziKleen 100% - 2030

Stage 3 ILM IMM, Gov Depart- 40% - 2022 Funds, policies,

(refer 5.2 map) ments, NGO’s, 75% - 2025 legislation
OzziKleen 100% - 2030

fig.2.1 Septic Tank Replacement Staging Map

19
7. IMM Management Matrix

20
6.2 Design Parameters of Sewage Treatment

Parameter Unit Influent Advanced Effluent

Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) mg/L ≤ 350 ≤10
Total Suspended Solids (TSS) mg/L ≤ 350 ≤ 10
Total Nitrogen (TN) mg/L ≤ 75 ≤10
Faecal Coliforms, FC cfu/100 mL - ≤ 10
Chlorine Residual mg/L - 0.5 ≤ 2.0
pH 6.0≤ 8.5 6.0 ≤ 8.5

7.1 Management Rules and By Laws

This section below describes the conditions to activities that have access to specific zones within theIMPA

7.1.1 Zone 1: General Use Zone (GUZ)/ Akses Solwota Eria (ASE)

Fishing/seasonal harvest
ICCA management committee will provide exception for artisanal fishing on specific timeframe. The activity will be
properly managed and must be authorised by the chief and his council together with the approval of IMM
Management committee, the department of fisheries and department of water.
Non-commercial sand, gravel and aggregate mining
1. Sand mining is banned except for the customary land owners who are given exclusive right by IMPA man
agement committee for the sand mining in the area
2. Coral mining is banned except for the custom landowners who are given exclusive right from IMPA manage
ment committee for coral mining in this area Recreational activities are allowed within the general use zone
which includes, snorkelling, diving, swimming, kayaking, canoeing sailing and boating etc.
3. Recreational Activity
Recreational activities are allowed within the general use zone which includes, snorkelling, diving, swimming,
kayaking, canoeing sailing and boating.
Anchoring/ Transshipment
Anchoring of private vessels including cruise is allowed in the general use zone however on conditions that all
intoxications are contained.
Walking/standing on reefs
Walking or standing on reefs Is allowed however there will be no use of Traps, hand spearing, gleaning, netting,
trolling or hand-line fishing, other than approved by chiefs council and IMM
Non- Extractive uses
Tourism recreational activities within the GUZ will be charged a green fee as set out in the conservation levy
schedule.
1. All commercial vessels will be strictly monitored.
2. All forms of underwater recreational activities will be banned in the shallow area of coral offset sites (less
than 2m at low tide) regardless of obtaining certificate.
Ecosystem restoration
Restoration, rehabilitation and restocking programs are allowed within this zone.
Research/Mari culture
Activities on improvement of marine species and sea-water quality assessment are encouraged in this zone. The
activities within this zone must reflect IMM commitments in the IMPA Management Plan.
Setting up of quality Mari culture practices will be under the directorship of the fisheries department.

Artificial modification*
Foreshore activity is allowed for special purposes on basis that it reflects the IMPA aims and objectives outline in the
action plans and must provide space for modification of artificial reef implants.

21
Works*
Allowed for special purposes on basis that the works must;
• Obtain a development permit from DLA (Department of Local Authority)
• Obtain approval from DEPC through an EIA Review
• Get approval from the customary land owner of the area.
• Acquire a permit from IMPA management committee, as custodian of the IMPA.
• Obtain a waterworks permit from the DoWR

All foreshore development will be subject to a conservation green fee as set out in Conservation levy schedule.

*This area is allowed for seasonal harvest practices under certain conditions per the above fishing/seasonal har-
vest sub-heading. This zone is allowed for such activity with conditions.
Other activities within the GUZ are totally banned. Penalties will be imposed to offenders who do not comply with
the practices set out in the IMPA Management Matrix.

7.1.2. Zone 2: Community Conservation Area (CCA)/ Kastom Manejmen Eria (KME)

Non-commercial sand, gravel and aggregate mining

1. Sand mining is banned except for the customary land owners who are given exclusive right by IMPA
management committee for the sand mining in the area
2.Coral mining is banned except for the custom landowners who are given exclusive right from IMPA
management committee for coral mining in this area
Ecosystem restoration
Restoration, rehabilitation and restocking activities are allowed within this zone. The activities within this zone must
reflect IMM commitments in the IMPA Action Plan.
Research
Activities on improvement of marine species and sea-water quality assessment are encouraged in this zone and must
reflect IMM Activity Plan and commitments within the Management Plan.
Artificial modification*
Artificial modification allowed for special purposes on basis that it reflects the IMPA aims and objectives outline in
the action plans and must provide space for improvement on coastal rehabilitation programs.
Works*
Allowed for special purposes on basis that the works must;
• Obtain a development permit from DLA (Department of Local Authority)
• Obtain approval from DEPC through an EIA Review
• Get approval from the customary land owner of the area.
• Acquire a permit from IMPA management committee, the custodian of the IMPA.
• Obtain a waterworks permit from the DOWR
All foreshore development will be subject to a green fee as set out in green levy schedule.
Ecosystem restoration
Rehabilitation, the activities within this zone must reflect IMM commitments in the IMPA Action Plan.
*This area will not be affected by the opening and closing of seasonal harvest practices. This zone is totally banned
from such activity.
Other activities within the IMPA are totally banned. Penalties will be imposed to offenders who do not comply
with the practices set out in the IMPA Management Matrix.

7.1.3. Zone 3: Sustainable Use Zone (SUZ)/Garen Solwota Eria (GSE)

Industrial fishing*1 and Mariculture practices are allowed in this area on supervision under the IMPA Management
committee and the fisheries department.

22
7.1.4 Zone 4: Limited Use Zone (LUZ)/ Neseri Solwota Eria (NeSE)

Ecosystem restoration
e.g. coral re-introduction, stock enhancement, clams, removal of crown-of-thorns and research* program is allowed
in the area. The zone is regarded as breeding sites of the IMPA; therefore it is important to preserve habitats for
sustainability of the resources.
There will be no use of Traps, hand spearing, gleaning, netting, trolling or hand-line fishing in the area.
*This area will not be affected by the opening and closing of seasonal harvest practices. This zone is totally banned
from such activity on exception that the fisheries department provides an alternative to commercialise resource or
product identified within the zone.
Other activities within the IMPA are totally banned. Penalties will be imposed to offenders who do not comply
with the practices set out in the IMPA Management Matrix.

7.1.5. Zone 5: No-take Zone (NTZ)/ Notek Eria (NoTE)

Research*
research is allowed in this area on supervision under the Management of the appropriate authority and IMM
management committee. There will be no use of Traps, hand spearing, gleaning, netting, trolling or hand-line fishing
in the area.
*This area will not be affected by the opening and closing of seasonal harvest practices. This zone is totally banned
from such activity.

7.1.6 Zone 6: Special Zone (SZ)/ Spesel Solwota Eria (SSE)

Recreational Activity & Non-extractive uses

Diving, swimming and snorkelling is allowed in the area, a green fee will be applicable depending on type activity on
site
Research*
research is allowed in this area on supervision under the Management of the appropriate authority and IMM
management committee.
Ecosystem restoration
e.g. coral re-introduction, stock enhancement, clams, removal of crown-of-thorns and related marine rehabilitation
activities are allowed in this zone
Other activities within the IMPA are totally banned. Penalties will be imposed to offenders who do not comply
with the practices set out in the IMPA Management Matrix.

JICA Reef Offset Plan

IMM management committee will collaborate with JICA on the coral offset plan at allocated sites (Ifira East and Fatu-
maru) within the IMPA.

7.1.7 General
All Environmental Protection and Conservation Act laws and regulation, Fisheries Act regulation and laws will be
applied if necessary.

23
8. Green Fee Shedule
The sustainability of IMMA requires a financial toolkit to sustain the development and implementation of activities,
rehabilitation and capacity exchange programs.
The IMPA committee has enacted a schedule conservation green fee on separate high frequency activities that oper-
ate within Port Vila harbour. The fee imposed will be used on rehabilitation programs and provide incentives to IMPA
marine champions and other MPA within the Archipelago. IMPA Committee will be responsible to disseminate under
its Mandatory obligations, Incentives for other Conservation Area champions and monitors within Vanuatu, fiscal
assistance and partnership.
The maintenance of sea water-quality is of great challenge and requires a lot of technical expertise to address the
area with proper assessments and analysis using sophisticated sea-water instruments. IMPA must cater for financial
assistance to support such big operations on sea-water quality improvements and other rehabilitation programs.
With the pollution continuously making way to the sea the harder and challenging the situation has become. The
creation and implementation of the conservation green fee will assist in many ways to address the escalating issue of
marine pollution and exploitation, curb industrial waste, septic’s, aggregate and sediments flow, and contamination
in Port Vila harbour

Outcomes
The IMPA committee encourages tourism ecofriendly business as supported by the NSDP platform economy pillar.
the IMPA committee will provide avenues to cater for such endeavors.
IMPA Committee will develop activities focused on marine for eco-friendly businesses and contribute to the national
strategic aims and objectives of the Vanuatu Tourism Industry.

Ref# TYPE OF DEVELOPMENT/ CONSERVATION BASIS OF PAYMENT

ACTIVITY GREEN FEE

TOURISM
1 Recreational Activity &
Non-extractive uses.
Diving- swimming- snorkelling, VUV 700/operation On day
kayaking-canoeing-sailing. day of business operation
anchorage
*Charges applied to operators only

2 - Pontoons/helipads
- High frequency boating VUV 700/operation On operation day
day
*Charges applied to operators
only.

RECLAIMATION & WORKS

3 Reclamation development interior
to ICCA boundary conservation VUV 500 Sqm Monthly
area
4 Works*
- dredging,
- building,
- laying of cables VUV 500 Sqm Spot payment
- beach nourishment
- artificial modification

24
The money collected from the above fees will contribute towards these activities as listed below;

• Rehabilitation programs
• Continuous monitoring
• Conservation events, and awareness programs
• Contribute towards Improving sea-water quality
• Promote and establish eco-tourism activities
• Incentives for Conservation Area champions and monitors

9. Offences and penalties

If anyone is found to breach this management rule they can be charged with a maximum fine of
Vuv 20, 000.

The first and second offence will be charged and dealt with by the management committee according to the
penalties as stated below. However for the third (3rd) account the offender will be liable to prosecution

If this fine amount or access fee is not paid within a period 27 days the management committee may begin legal
process according to the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act No.12 CAP 283 and Department of
Fisheries marine spieces protection legal framework.

Description of Offence Penalty

Sand Mining / Coral Mining Vuv 20,000vt spot fine
If one is found without prior approval from IMM
Under Size Catch Vuv 20,000vt spot fine
If one is found to obtain an undersized catch of
lobsters, coconut crab, pupu shell, grin snel, troka.

Deforestation Vuv 20,000vt spot fine

If anyone is found Harvesting and or cutting down
trees along the coast

If anyone is found collecting crabs and other Vuv 20,000vt spot fine
vertebrates liable to offence.
If anyone is found dumbing rubbish in any manner Vuv 20,000vt spot fine
to the sea is liable to offence.
bilges discharges & hull maintenance works is liable Vuv 300,000 spot fine
to a fine not exceeding
Selling of banned fish/ shellfish/ banned marine Vuv 20,000vt spot fine
products
Selling of undersized fish nets 1,2 inch Vuv 20,000vt spot fine

CONFISCATING OF FISHING EQUIPMENT WILL BE ENFORCED IF THE OFFENDER DOES NOT COMPLY

25
10. Endorsements & Support

26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
11. Appendices
Tebol 1. Vanuatu Fisaris Regulesen
Spisis Limit blong Sesen blong Ol narafala Max. kriminol
saes havest restriksen panisman
Troka (Trochus Diamita: 9 cm Open Mas gat ekspot Wanwan man:
niloticus) minimum& 13 pemit VT 200,000;
cm maximum Kampani: VT
1,000,000
Grin snel (Turbo Klos kasem 1 Wanwan man:
marmoratus) Oktoba 2020 VT 200,000;
Kampani: VT
1,000,000
Pupu Sel (Char- Klos kasem 1 Wanwan man:
onia tritonis) Januari 2019 VT 200,000;
Kampani: VT
1,000,000
Si-kukamba Klos kasem 1 Wanwan man:
(beche-de-mer) Januari 2013 VT 200,000;
Kampani: VT
1,000,000
Lobsta blong rif Totol blong Open No tekem ol Wanwan man:
(Panulirus spp.) longfala blong woman wan we VT 200,000;
hem: 22 cm oli gat ek; no Kampani: VT
minimum; long- sperem;, mas 1,000,000
fala blong sel gat ekspot
blong baksaed pemit
blong hem: 7.5
cm minimum
Slipa lobsta Totol blong Open No tekem ol Wanwan man:
(Parribacus longfala blong woman wan we VT 200,000;
caledonicus) hem: 15 cm oli gat ek; no Kampani: VT
minimum sperem;, mas 1,000,000
gat eks-
Krab kokonas Longfala blong Torba Provins: Kota blong Wanwan man:
(Birgus latro) sel blong Klos stat long wan yia: Torba VT 200,000;
baksaed: 9 cm 30 Okis – 1 Provins: 5,000; Kampani: VT
minimum Nov.; Sanma Sanma Provins: 1,000,000
Provins: Klos 2,000; Maewo
kasem 31 Maj Aelan: 1,500;
2012; Maewo Erromango
Aelan: Klos stat Aelan: 2,000;
long 1 Nov. – 30 mas gat ekspot
Eprel; Erroman- pemit
go Aelan: Klos
stat long 1 Sep.
– 31 Maj
Ol totel blong Klos NO alaow blong Wanwan man:
solwora ekspot VT 200,000;
Kampani: VT
1,000,000
36
 Aquarium fis Open Mas gat ekspot Wanwan man:
pemit; kota VT 200,000;
blong Centro- Kampani: VT
pyge loriculus 1,000,000
(flame angel)
long Efate mo
aelan kolosap:
12,250 pis.

Ol mamol blong Klos VT 50,000,000

sol-wora o 2 yia long ka-
labus o tugeta
panisman

Ol nara aksen we oli blokem

• No gat pemit mo fising wetem eni kaen tul blong pulum win andanit long wota (scuba o
hookah)

• Fising wetem drag net o wan beach seine we saes blong mesh blong hem ino 50 milimita
taem we oli stretem fulwan

• Fising wetem wan cast net we saes blong mesh blong hem ino kasem 20 milimeta taem we
oli
stretem fulwan o wan radius we i bitim 2 mita

• Setemap wan fanis blong fishing witaot riten otoraeseisen blong Daerekta

• Fising wetem ol explosiv, posen o eni narafala nogud sabstens

• Setemap, karemaot o destroem wan fish aggregating device (FAD) witaot wan riten
otoraeseisen blong Daerekta

• Fising, brekem ol korel, karem sanbij o karem wan wrek long wan ples we oli diklerem se
hemi wan marine risev

• Kolektem ol troka, grin snel o lobsta ( tugeta blong rif mo slipa) long eria we oli klosem
( hemi no applae long ol traditional ona we oli gat wan valid pemit)

• Yusum wan bot blong mekem bisnis blong fising– be ino wan tradisenal kenu – witaot wan
valid laesens.