Presentation Wetlands and ramsar sites in Ghana and their benefits to the society and the world at large

Presentation on some wetlands in Ghana

1. PRESENTATION ON DENSU DELTA RAMSAR SITE AND KETA WETLAND RAMSAR SITE IN GHANA. OBJECTIVES AT THE END OF THE PRESENTATION, AUDIENCE SHOULD BE ABLE TO; Define Ramsar Sites Gain historical knowledge on Densu Delta Ramsar Site and Keta lagoon Ramsar Site in Ghana Identify major species diversity found in both Densu Delta Ramsar Site and Sangor Wetland Ramsar Site in Ghana Identify some economic values of the Densu Delta Ramsar Site and Sangor Ramsar Site Outline some Climate change effects and Human activities that poses threat on Ramsar Sites in Ghana State some measures to reduce threat on Ramsar Sites in Ghana

2. What is a wetland? According to Ramsar Convention, Iran 1971, wetlands are areas of marsh, fen, peatland, or water, whether natural or artificial,permanent or temporaly,with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish,or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed 6 meters. Ramsar Sites : are wetlands of national and international importance.

3. DENSU DELTA RAMSAR SITE The Densu Delta Ramsar Site was designated on 14th August, 1992 . The coordinates of the Delta is; 05 degree North and 18 degree West . Densu Delta Ramsar Site is an estuary comprising open lagoon, salt pans, freshwater. It is a coastal wetland. It lies C.11km west of Accra in river valley between the Aplak-Takuse and Weija McCarthy hills. The wetland is fed mainly by the Densu river, which dammed upstream thus Weija dam to supply water to the city of Accra. The dam has had profound effect on the lagoon and the general hydrology of the wetland is controlled by the management Weija Water Works.

4. species variety found in the Densu Delta Some variety of species found in the Densu Delta are; Birds like the African fish Eagle and the Kingfishers Reptile the Nile Crocodile and Turtle like the Hawkbill turtle, Green turtle, Olive ridley turtle. Mammals include Hippos, Otters and various species of monkeys like the Olive baboon and the Patas monkeys

5. ECONOMIC AND SOCIETAL BENEFIFS OF THE DENSU DELTA It serves as livelihood through fishing activities. It serves as tourist site which boost the local economy through ecotourism and hospitality services. It helps in maintaining Ecological balance by providing habitats for various species. It provide recreational opportunities for student and visitors serving them with more information about nature.

6. EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ANTHROPOGENIC ACTIVITIES THAT POSES THREAT ON DENSU DELTA Rise in temperature changing rainfall patters and sea level rise can disrupt the balace of ecosystem. It can lead to habitat loss affecting the breeding and feeding grounds of various species. Pollution from agriculture runoff, industrial activities and improper disposal of waste can destroy water quality and harm flora and fuana in the area Overfishing and destructive fishing practices can also deplete fishing population and desrupt the food chain.

7. MEASURES TO MITIGATE THREAT ON DENSU DELTA Promoting sustainable agricultural practices such as reducing chemical use and implementing proper waste management to prevent pollution. Raising awareness about the importace of wetlands and thier role in biodiversity conservation. Ecouraging collaboration between government Agencies, local communities, NGO’S and other staakeholders. Implementing responsible water management practices such as recycling water extraction and ensuring adequate water flows to wetlands.

8. KETA LAGOON RAMSAR SITE The Keta lagoon ramsar site has management area 1200km^2 and lagoon area of 300km^2 , has been established as a wetland protected area (Ramsar Site) with multi-use management and significant local participation. Apart from the conservation objective of protecting thousand of migratory birds, the mangrove forest and breeding grounds of sea turtle, it has tourism potential. The Keta lagoon with its brackish water waters is the largest lagoon in Ghana. Its tiny islands provide sites of special attraction for ornithologist, bird watchers and tourists in general.

9. SPECIES DIVERSITY IN THE KETA LAGOON RAMSAR SITE Various birds species, including the African fish eagle, great egret, black-winged stilt, etc Fishes such as tilapia, catfish and mudskippers Reptiles like the Nile crocodiles, African slender-snouted crocodiles , various species of turtles Mammals species includes the west African manatee, African clawless, arter and various bat species

10. ECONOMICAL AND SOCIETAL BENEFITS OF KETA LAGOON RAMSAR SITE Supports a thriving fishing industry, providing source of livelihood for local communities. They act as natura buffers against coastal erosion and storm surges, helping to protect near by communities from the impact of climate change. Serves as a valuable educational and research resource for studing. Serves as tourist attraction where visitors engage in activities like birdwatching, boat tour and exploring the the mangrove forest.

11. EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ANTHROPOGENIC ACTIVITIES THAT POSES THREAT ON KETA LAGOON . Climate change has led to rising sea leves which poses threat like increase flooding and erosion which damage wetland ecosystem and destroy the livelihood of those aroun it. Human activities like deforestation, urbanization and agriculture have resulted in habitat loss within and the lagoon. Anthropogenic activities like industrial discharge, agricultural runoff and improper waste management brings about pollution in the lagoon this affect the water quality, aquatic life and health of the ecosystem.

12. MEASURES TO MITIGATE THREAT ON KETA LAGOON Implementing conservation measures to protect and restore the wetland ecosystem this include preserving and restoring the mangrove forest. Promoting sustainable tourism practices can help generate income while minimizing negative impact on the lagoon. Implementing strict regulation and enforcement of laws to control population, this involves monitoring and reducing industrial discharge and proper waste management practices. Developing methods to adapt to the impact of climate change is important this can involve creating coastal protection measures.

13. THANK YOU!!!!! PRESENTER : TEY FELIX