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Developing lowland habitat networks in Scotland
 Background
The development of habitat networks is seen as an important mechanism for reversing the effects of fragmentation on biodiversity while delivering a range of other environmental benefits such as creating more opportunities for public access and recreational enjoyment of the countryside. In the Scottish lowlands, there is a desire to develop a more integrated approach to planning land-use change and incentives which takes account of conservation objectives for the full suite of habitats and species associated with different types of land use. A review of approaches Study areas In 2004/05, Forest Research joined forces with Forestry Commission Scotland and the Scottish Agricultural College (Auchincruive) to carry out a desk-based review of approaches to developing lowland habitat networks. The review was funded by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department (SEERAD).  A review of approaches to developing Lowland Habitat Networks in Scotland (PDF-3016K)
The review recommended testing the usefulness of the focal species method used within Forest Research's suite of tools called BEETLE (Biological and Environmental Tools for Landscape Ecology) for evaluating the consequences of land use change for biodiversity and informing the development and targeting of agri-environment incentives. Developing Lowland Habitat Networks in Scotland: Phase 2 (PDF-3207K) Work is on going this year (2006/07) testing this approach to modelling in four case study areas (see map) in lowland Scotland with contrasting patterns of land use and conservation objectives: - Isle of Tiree (pictured above)
- East Fife
- Strathspey
- Irvine catchment in Ayrshire.
Red squirrel population in FifeA map of the Fife study area is shown on the right. In consultation with end-users, priority species groups for scenario modelling were identified. One of the major issues of concern is the survival of the red squirrel population in Fife and how existing red squirrel networks might be strengthened against the rampaging grey squirrel. Existing red and grey squirrel habitat networks in Fife study area
Enlarge map  Photo source: Defra The exciting challenge is to cater for the needs of red squirrels (essentially conifer forests) while also addressing other high priorities for conservation such as maintaining semi-natural species-rich grassland networks and fields of winter stubble for corn buntings (right). Landscape and recreational impactsWe are also investigating ways of combining ecological network analyses with assessments of landscape character and recreational impacts. The anticipated output from the project is a set of decision support tools accessible to end-users involved in the strategic planning of landuse change. Funding this year comes from a partnership of SNH, SEERAD and Forestry Commission Scotland. For further information contact:Mike Smith
Forest Research
Northern Research Station
Roslin
Midlothain EH25 9SY Tel: 0131 445 2176
Fax: 0131 445 5124
Email: mike.smith@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
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