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Project
origins
It has long been felt within the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust
that changes in species populations and quality and size of habitats
are good indicators of ‘environmental health’. This
project proposes to test a process for recording and monitoring
a set of biodiversity indicators for Wiltshire, to measure changes
in the region’s natural heritage over time. It will also act
as a vehicle for creating new volunteer interest in wildlife recording
from different community strata within the county, provide accurate
environmental information, help implement the Local Record Centre’s
development plan and raise awareness of biodiversity issues amongst
the public.
Action
for biodiversity
Only with accurate data on habitats and species is it possible to
protect and enhance them. There are many existing survey initiatives
within Wiltshire, covering many different habitats and species over
time and space. This project aims firstly to engender new public
interest in monitoring as a long-term activity within these schemes,
and secondly to provide a more scientific framework for detecting
key changes in our environment through the recording of chosen indicators
species and habitats.
Relationships
to sustainable development
As the pilot for this project will be in Swindon, it will fit in
with other local activities such as the Quality of Life Indicators.
It will underpin projects involving open greenspace and wildlife
in gardens within the urban context with good wildlife information
. It will make local people aware of the value of their environment
and how it may be enhanced for wildlife in the long term, giving
them power to change their environment for the better.
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