Inventory of important wetlands in Lithuania: a case study of a country in transition

A country-wide inventory of important wetlands was undertaken in Lithuania in 1996–1999, covering more than 80 wetlands with a total area of about 130 000 ha. Intensive field surveys (land-based, aerialand boat-surveys) were performed at all sites. The Ramsar Information Sheet and data recording methodology was used as the basis for the structure of the inventory. Results of the field surveys revealed more than 29 wetlands that met the Ramsar criteria for identification of wetlands of international importance. Five wetlands were proposed for immediate inclusion into the national Ramsar list: the Girutiškis mire complex, the Rūdninkai mire complex, the northern part of the Kuršių Marios lagoon with the adjacent meadows, lakes of the Meteliai Regional park and inshore marine waters at the Palanga coast. A special Lithuanian Wetlands Database was created and duplicate copies forwarded to the regional and local authorities responsible for land reform and further management of wetlands. Results of the inventory were compiled in a special publication ‘Important Wetlands in Lithuania’ (1999). Successful completion of this program will enable more effective and ongoing practical implementation of recommendations concerning the protection and further management of important wetlands during a continuing period landuse reform and other economic developments.