Intro to Biodiversity Action Plans

In this face to face session, we will be looking at the foundation of species and habitat protection; the plan of action to achieve measured change. What makes a priority habitat? Why are some species internationally protected and how do landscape designations, such as SNCI'S (Sites of Nature Conservation Interest) and SSSI's (Sites of Special Scientific Interest), function to protect wildlife?Together we will look at:

• Key websites that list species of conservation concern and landscape designations around your area.
• Site designations in the UK ranging from Local Wildlife Sites all the way up to Internationally protected RAMSAR sites, helping you to understand how these protections function in relation to your site.
• Water; are there any waterbodies in the site? If not, is it suitable to introduce one? If so, what is the condition of it? Visible pollution? Who owns it and what are their constraints?
• Food; is there habitat and food for invertebrates on site? What are your target species? Are you supporting the foundational elements of a healthy food web?
• Connectivity: How does a space connect with its wider environment?
• Management: How can traditional techniques significantly improve a space for wildlife? Focusing on habitat mosaics and reducing 'human centric' design.

This course is aimed at amatuer naturalists, people active in community nature projects, sustainability leads in organisations and people looking to improve a green space for nature in a more structured and pragmatic way.

Please note this course will run subject to meeting a minimum number of participants.