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Interactive map protects Glasgow's water voles
Images courtesy of Lorne Gill, NatureScot.

Researchers developed the tool for use during urban planning and city development.

An interactive map has been developed to map suitable habitats for European water voles in Glasgow.

Researchers from the University of Glasgow, in collaboration with partners from Glasgow City Council, NatureScot and Seven Lochs Wetland Park, have developed the tool to protect the species during urban planning and city development.

Published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, it is hoped that this new tool and the work accompanying it will help to conserve the species.

Luca Nelli, lead author of the study, 'Predicting habitat suitability and connectivity for management and conservation of urban wildlife: A real-time web application for grassland water voles', said: “With our work we wanted to develop a user-friendly tool for conservation, that can be used by planners to inform ecological decision making, increase biodiversity and reduce human-wildlife conflict in urban environments.

“This model will be used to inform management of water voles, balance the legal protection of this species, maintain green amenity space for local people, and to inform the planning of building and infrastructure for the socio-economic development of affected areas.

“We also hope this will provide a framework for applying similar practices to the management of other species and habitats in urban environments.”

The web tool is currently being using for the management and conservation of water voles in North East Glasgow and Seven Lochs Wetland Park.

Catherina Scott, co-author of the study from Glasgow City Council, commented: “This new research will feed into the existing planning system and is invaluable in providing additional guidance to help balance both the needs of biodiversity and a thriving city.

“After all, well connected greenspace which provides the habitat connectivity required for this nationally significant species, can also provide the active travel routes to work, school and play for residents.

“And by identifying the core areas of biodiversity interest, other areas can be unlocked for regeneration projects.”

 

Images (C) Lorne Gill, NatureScot

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.