NICARAGUA, ATLANTIC BIOLOGICAL CORRIDOR	14/10/2005
	Atlantic Biological Corridor Project, Nicaragua - Planning and Monitoring Component The overall project aims to strengthen and secure a biological corridor from North to South of Nicaragua in coordination with other central American countries (funded by GEF/World Bank). The project component implemented by Grontmij | Carl Bro, referred to as 'Planning and Monitoring' consists of four integrated subcomponents: Regional Planning, Community Development Planning, design and implementation of a Regional Monitoring and Evaluation system, and 6 Sectoral Studies (Mining, Fisheries, Forests, Rural Economy and Agriculture, and Sustainable Tourism). Grontmij | Carl Bro developed a highly integrated approach to regional development, contributing with innovative knowledge systems, participative action oriented planning instruments, and crosscutting sectorial work involving and committing all relevant stakeholders. Grontmij | Carl Bro solved the need for integrated planning and development through an integrated Regional Monitoring and Information System available through tele-centers (www.siar.org.ni). The SIAR include 90 participatory community development plans; a sustainable development index linking social, economic and environmental indicators at individual and community level and possibility to cross reference with a large number of thematic maps, quantitave and qualitative surveys and studies. During the planning phase several surveys were made, and manuals and other instruments were developed. All results are available at the website and from the Ministry.