CRT Invasive non-native species policy Purpose The objective of this policy is to provide guidelines and procedures for the management of invasive species by the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT). It aims to mitigate the ecological impact of invasive non-native species (INNS) on biodiversity, ecosystems, and native habitats. Scope This policy applies to all activities related to the detection, monitoring, control, and eradication of INNS, undertaken by the CRT. Background to INNS INNS are species of animal, plant, fungi and bacteria that have been introduced to an area where they do not naturally occur (non-native), and which proliferate to the detriment of native wildlife (invasive). In the UK, some 3,000 non-native species have been recorded in the wild but only 10-15 per cent of those are considered invasive. These introductions are almost entirely human-centred and can be accidental escapes of species deliberately brought in for commercial purposes. Humans have been transporting species intentionally and unintentionally since the first hominids evolved but the scale of global transport in modern times means the rate of INNS occurrence is increasing. The threat they pose to native wildlife varies widely, but in all cases INNS occupy niches, taking away resources that would otherwise be available to native wildlife, and reducing the natural ecosystem function. INNS are in the top five threats to biodiversity worldwide. Their impacts are compounded by the other threats to wildlife, such as habitat loss, over-exploitation of natural resources, climate change and pollution, and it is hard to tease apart which of these five factors are most damaging. Policy The CRT is generally supportive of initiatives to control, remove, or manage invasive non-native species, particularly where their presence is proven to have a negative impact. We urge Government to take this issue seriously and strengthen national strategies both to tackle existing INNS and improve biosecurity measures to reduce the rate of INNS arriving. We recognise that not all non-native species have a negative environmental impact. However, the CRT has been directly involved in the removal of American mink from East Anglia, with the aim of increasing water vole populations and protecting ground-nesting birds of all types. We also remove Himalayan balsam, a non-native invasive plant that establishes dense thickets that prevent naturalised plants from growing. We further support efforts by other organisations that promote the return of our native red squirrel. Grey squirrels are a vector for, but resistant to, the devastating squirrel pox disease which is fatal for red squirrel. Therefore, culling of grey squirrel is a proven and appropriate method to prevent them from re-colonising areas the red squirrel has re-established. The CRT will always undergo humane, best practice management. The CRT recognises that the arrival of INNS at a greater rate than ever before can, and does, have a negative impact on native biodiversity and must be managed by the appropriate means on a case-by-case basis. Early Detection The CRT’s monitoring programmes survey habitats and identify signs of invasive species establishment. Where appropriate, the CRT conducts assessments to prioritise invasive species management efforts based on ecological impact, distribution, and the feasibility of control measures. Resources are allocated strategically to address high-priority invasive species that pose significant threats to native biodiversity. Integrated Management Approaches Invasive species management strategies employ a combination of methods as deemed appropriate on a case-by-case basis. These may include mechanical and chemical controls. Efforts will always be made to minimise reliance on chemicals and prioritise environmentally sustainable approaches. At all times, control of an invasive animal species will be conducted as humanely as possible. The CRT recognises the most effective strategies for tackling INNS must work at landscape scale as the continuous risk of reinvasion and ongoing control is best prevented by working towards eradication. The ultimate benefits are far greater and the overall number of individuals that must be removed will be lower if this is achieved. However, it does depend on national biosecurity measures to prevent reinvasion. Injurious Weeds There are also requirements to control injurious weeds, some of which are native but have legal reasons for needing to be controlled. More information on this is available here - www.gov.uk/government/publications/identification-of-injurious-weeds Partnerships The CRT is always willing to work with other organisations to coordinate invasive species management efforts more effectively. This has been proven by our collaboration with the Waterlife Recovery Trust (WRT) and other wildlife organisations, for efforts to control American mink. Partnerships can be fostered to leverage expertise, resources, and funding opportunities. We have also partnered up with Bring Holme our Reds, an initiative to eradicate Grey Squirrels from the Holmfirth area of Yorkshire to allow Red Squirrels to recolonise. We work with the local Wildlife Trust and several other conservation organisations and landowners to tackle Himalayan Balsam on the Bourn Brook, which flows through our Lark Rise Farm in Cambridgeshire. Review This policy is reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to reflect changes in regulations, best practices, or land management considerations. Manage Cookie Preferences