DELINEATION PROCEDURES Clause Samples

DELINEATION PROCEDURES. Delineation is the process through which the boundaries of a KBA are drawn on a map; it is a required step of the KBA identification process. The aim is to derive site boundaries that are ecologically relevant yet practical for management. Taking the actual or potential manageability of sites into account in their delineation is likely to enhance prospects of biodiversity persistence, but no specific management prescription is implied by the delineation of KBA boundaries. Delineation is an iterative process that typically involves assembling spatial datasets, deriving initial site boundaries based on ecological data, refining the ecological boundaries to yield practical boundaries, and documenting delineation precision. The process should occur in collaboration with stakeholders having expertise relevant to KBA identification and delineation, and who are free of political/economic bias or conflicts of interest. This usually includes scientists and other experts with local and traditional knowledge of the biodiversity elements occurring at the site, conservation and community groups working or living in the area, and government agencies tasked with managing natural areas or wildlife. Consultation with these constituencies (e.g. through workshops or informal meetings) can provide important context and data to inform delineation. As the extent to which KBA boundaries inform active management increases, more extensive consultation will be needed, for example with local and indigenous communities living in or near the site.