1 st Interregional Bongo Workshop, May 2013 Species Planning David Mallon Co-Chair Antelope Specialist Group IUCN Species Conservation Planning Subcommittee

Why? Working together achieves more than working alone (synergy) Global framework for all partners Helps coordinate action by all Avoids duplication Addresses the highest threats Helps fundraising

Species Conservation Strategy (SCS) Several planning processes We are following the IUCN process (SCS) Common elements to all processes Based on sound science/information Partnership between some or all of: 1) Government, 2) NGOs, 3) Local communities, 4) Researchers, 5) Conservationists (in situ and exsitu)

" When we understand that slide, we'll have won the war” ( General Stanley McChrystal) - US Military General STAnley McChrystal

Where are we? Where do we want to go? How do we get there? Steps in Conservation Planning

1.Where are we now? 2.Where do we want to go? 3.How do we get there? Basic features of conservation planning (at all levels): Status Assessment Action Plan Vision/Goal (Strategy)

From diagnosis to action: how do we change the situation? Strategies are tools - implementation is key “Action Plans alone don’t save species – only action does” Is it a question of resources? Do we have the capacity? – institutions, personnel, training? Motivation? – Laws adequate, enforcement weak

Vision & Goal VISION: ideal situation in years GOAL(s): A concrete step towards achieving the Vision Actions: what is needed to attain the Goal

Regional examples Arabian Leopard – Very few left in in the wild (<250) – In fragmented populations – Ex-situ populations in 5 centres – Coordinated breeding programme (partly) – Every individual is valuable

Vision and Goal Arabian LeopardWorkshop Results 1: Vision and Goal Vision: To have viable and sustainably managed populations of the Arabian leopard, its wild prey and natural habitats in co-existence with local communities across its range in the Arabian Peninsula. Goal: To ensure the survival of all known wild populations of Arabian leopard and develop conservation programmes for the leopard, its prey and natural habitat in all range states.

Extinct in the Wild 1970s Now 8 reintroduced populations in 5 countries Coordinated breeding programme, within the region and outside

Vision Free ranging and viable AO populations thrive in their historic range across the Arabian Peninsula Goal Successful reintroduction programs in north and south of the Arabian Peninsula to establish 2 metapopulations Arabian Oryx Regional Conservation Strategy and Action Plan Workshop 2007