"Rapid Assessment Survey of important marine turtle and monk seal habitats in the coastal area of Albania, 2005"
By White, M., Haxhiu, I., Kouroutos, V., Gace, A., Vaso, A., Beqiraj, S. Plytas, A., Dedej, Z.

Defining position underwater

During this rapid assessment survey, qualitative data were gathered on the geomorphology, flora and fauna of the benthos in selected areas (Karaburuni, Patok) along the coast; Quantitative data were collected on the status of marine turtles at sea (feeding grounds); and potential monk seal shelters along the southern coastline were identified and mapped using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). With the participation of local scientists and university students and through demonstration and training activities, scientific expertise was transferred. The fieldwork was based on the information gathered from surveys (questionnaires and interviews with local fishermen) and existing scientific data, also a series of dives was conducted in selected areas (e.g. Karaburuni and Patok), at randomly selected times and locations. A new method was tested on how to determine marine turtle population size at sea, based on the Line Transect method (Buckland et al 1993). Public awareness-raising activities were conducted throughout the documented period, distributing informative materials and informing fishermen and locals of the importance of the sea turtles and biodiversity conservation to themselves, their country, the Mediterranean and to the world. For full report please click here or visit:
http://www.medasset.org/PDF/albanian_report/Albanian_report.pdf

Fundraising and good times at "St George Lycabettus"

Pita Party
MEDASSET's New Year's Pita Cake Tea Party and Fashion Show

Glamorous models adorned with the latest fashion were a highlight at MEDASSET's traditional Greek New Year "Pita" cake cutting and tea party in the Grand Balcon of the St George Lycabettus Hotel in Athens on January 29th. With an incredible view over the whole of Athens, 235 people attended including supporters, Friends, fundraising committee, donors and Trustees, providing a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the New Year. There were two lucky winners of the silver Good Luck Charms,

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