PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT STUDY OF THE SEJOUMI SEBKHA

Client : Coastal Protection and Planning Agency (APAL)

Date : 2010 - 2012

The importance of frequentation of the Sebkha of Sejoumi (2979 ha) by aquatic birds, in particular pink flamingos, militated for its inscription as a wetland of international importance (Ramsar convention). However, the area around the sebkha has been subjected for several decades to very strong urban pressure and a proliferation of spontaneous housing with the resulting negative impacts. The objective of this study is to establish an in-depth knowledge of the functioning of the sebkha and to propose an action plan for its protection and enhancement.

The components targeted by the project relate to the following options:

• The restoration and then the management of the communication of the Sebkha with the sea by a canal which will connect it to the Méliane wadi. This work will make it possible to protect the habitat erected on the banks of the Sebkha from flooding and better manage the body of water to ensure its longest use by birds, which will thus reinforce its ecological vocation and its Ramsar classification.
• Cleanup of the site by eliminating illegal spills of liquid and solid industrial discharges
• Offer green and recreational areas to local residents through the forestation of the banks and in particular the completion of the development of the Henchir Yahoudia park