BASC gained funding from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to run the survey phase of a local project with our members in 2006.   Their position was similar to that of others trying to achieve BAP targets, in that there was limited information on biodiversity in the wider countryside in comparison with designated sites and there was not an efficient mechanism to get access to private land for the Local BAP process. A BASC Green Shoots project offered a solution to both of these issues.

The results were impressive:

• Over 3,610 sq km surveyed
• This is equivalent to 25% of Northern Ireland
• Over 16,800 new records of species and habitats created by BASC members
• 95% of members gave BASC permission to share the records with our partners

BASC are now in discussions to secure funding to move the project into the second phase of achieving biodiversity targets, in order to take advantage of the information provided.  Below are two maps showing the location of records for two of the 12 habitat and 34 species which members provided records for.

Ponds	Tree sparrow

 

If you were part of the survey in Northern Ireland, thank you.  The data provided is being used to help conservation effort and in so doing promote the role of shooting sports in maintaining a healthy environment.