The Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010 - 2015 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Welcome to the Second Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan.

This document sets out the projects which partners will deliver in the Council area over the next 5 years (2010-2015). Divided into 6 Ecosystem Work Programmes, these priority projects have emerged from a long process of consultation, a detailed review of the first Plan and the Scottish Government’s more recent biodiversity priorities. Several other factors have also been particularly important in determining the Plan’s scope, and how it will be delivered up to 2015.

Firstly, the inescapable fact is we are facing a major economic recession, which is likely to last at least for the first half of the Plan period. The scope and ambition of the new LBAP has had to reflect these circumstances. Whilst a range of excellent and valuable projects are already being carried out by project partners, all bodies, particularly the Council and government agencies face substantial cuts. The result is less public money for biodiversity work and on top of this the state of the economy will have a knock on effect for the charity sector on which so much conservation work depends. In response to these economic constraints, the approach taken in the LBAP is to highlight the work organisations are carrying out, with the aim of drawing contributions to these projects from other sources, especially the private sector. With any funds and staff capacity that this frees up, resources become available to undertake new conservation projects. A small number of high priority, but as yet un-funded projects have therefore been included in the LBAP, that partners want to implement if resources become available.

The second major influence on biodiversity work over 2010-2015 is the continued peak of forest harvesting in Argyll and Bute. Forest designs have greatly improved since the days when these forests were originally planted. New commercial plantations replacing these early forests have a higher proportion of open space, more native broadleaves, and avoid sensitive habitats. This whole process of removal and improved forest planting creates a huge opportunity to redress some of the forest industry’s earlier impacts on wildlife. It also provides the chance to tackle invasive species in some cases, with the removal and suppression of Rhododendron in particular. This range of opportunities are reflected in the Woodlands Work Programme.

The third key factor over the 2010 to 2015 period is a step change in the government’s investment to tackle climate change and energy security. Argyll andButeis especially well endowed with biomass, wind, wave and tidal opportunities, and the Council area is at the forefront of renewable energy development in the UK. These developments do, however, also bring real concerns about possible wildlife impacts, and it is critical that developments are steered away from sites where they risk having a significant impact on key species and habitats. Renewable energy projects do, however, represent an important opportunity over thenext5 years to increase our understanding of the distribution and abundance of many protected species and habitats, on and also offshore, through the ecological surveys required as part of their planning applications.

Fourthly, through the passage of the Marine Act, and work to establish marine protected areas and management zones, it is likely that, steps to better protect and sustainably manage the marine environment will be taken. Campaigners have lobbied for many years to get progress in this area, and the hope is progress will soon be delivered.

The last major influence of special relevance over the Plan period is the operation of the Scottish Rural Development Plan. Applications to this central government funding by land owners and managers can include a number of measures directly aimed at enhancing biodiversity. The operation of the scheme has had a slow start, with a number of applicants awaiting the outcome. Once these are processed, however, and the approval process becomes more streamlined, the hope is that more land owners and managers will submit applications with biodiversity benefits. The range of species and habitats that potentially stand to benefit are included in several projects within the Woodlands, Marine and Coastal, Upland and Lowland and Farmland Work Programmes.

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Overall, the Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 is therefore taking place at a difficult time, but not one without important new opportunities. As always, the responsibility for implementation depends on the good will, enthusiasm, creativity and determination of those key organisations featured in this Plan. Thanks to them, it is set to deliver important benefits for this area’s very special wildlife.

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Summary

The Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) 2010-2015 sets out over 70 priority conservation projects being implemented by various groups over the Plan period. These priority projects will help assess, maintain and enhance a wide range of habitats and species across the Council area, and already have funding and resources largely in place.

To help integrate this work, and to foster closer partnership working, the LBAP draws these projects together into 6 Ecosystem Work Programmes, an approach which follows the nationally recognised Ecosystem approach to LBAP delivery. The Freshwater, Marine and Coastal, Lowland and Farmland, Woodland, Upland and the Built Environment Ecosystem Work Programmes therefore each give the details, outputs, schedule, targets and partners delivering each project. In addition, these Work Programmes also includes a suite of potential projects which have yet to be funded, but which have lead partners keen to do the work if resources become available.

The habitats and species covered by the LBAP have been taken from the UK and Scottish Biodiversity Lists, with a small number also identified as being of local importance All are under threat and in decline. Some are familiar, others less so, but all are equally important to the special diversity of life found in Argyll & Bute.

The Local Biodiversity Partnership

Argyle and Bute’s local biodiversity plan is a shared agenda, to be delivered in partnership to conserve and enhance the biodiversity of the Council area. Its overarching aim is:

‘To conserve and enhance biological diversity within the UK and to contribute to the conservation of global biodiversity through all appropriate mechanisms’.

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The functions of the Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan are:

to translate UK and Scottish Action Plan targets for habitats and species into positive action at local level; to stimulate effective local working partnerships to maintain and enhance biodiversity; to raise awareness about the need and responsibilities of supporting biodiversity in the local context; to identify targets for habitats and species important in the local area - these include both rare and common according to local priorities; to ensure that delivery mechanisms for the enhancement of biodiversity are promoted and understood at local level; to provide a local basis for monitoring conservation progress.

The benefits of the LBAP and the Ecosystem Approach are:

to raise awareness, highlight the influence of biodiversity on the quality of life and economic opportunities, promote knowledge and emphasise the local character and distinctiveness that biodiversity contributes to Argyll and Bute; to promote positive and effective action through work programmes by prioritisation of habitats/species and resources in addition to measuring achievement through the identification of clear project objectives and targets; to involve people from a range of sectors to participate, help implement and develop responsibility for the LBAP; to identify and attract further resources from a broad range of opportunities which will enable pooling of resources and make the best use of existing funding; to provide for integration of local biodiversity priorities into other plans, programmes and strategies, including statutory development plans and to convert broad sustainability objectives into specific actions for habitats and species linking to and forming an integral component of the Community Planning work programme.

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Acknowledgements

Behind this Plan are the people and organisations driving forward wildlife conservation in Argyll and Bute. We are very grateful for all their generous contributions to this Plan through recommendations for projects and information on species and habitats. Included in our thanks are also those who provided photographs, including Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB Images (Andy Hay). A full list of participating organisations and their abbreviations are set out in Appendix 1.

The Argyll Islands – Inspiring future naturalists

Dalriada’s ancient rulers were guiding my way that winter morning. A pale full moon shone west, towards the isles. The large ferry softly ruffled the satin waters of the loch and as we turned into a light westerly, my mind drifted to the wonderland ahead. Geese near and far, raptors widespread, waders up close, over 100 bird species on this island alone! Islay in winter – magic!

I had the year ahead planned out – a week here, a week there, permission sought and granted, pets farmed out! My sleep was filled each night with great finds: the near endemic Welch’s Money Spider on Tiree; rare migrant goose species on Islay; white-tailed eagles drifting by within meters on Mull. I awoke each morning feeling like I was Lord of the Isles.

Ever since I was young I set the islands of Argyll high on my list as a land to conquer. The mild, wet, Atlantic climate; its varied woodland, undulating terrain with lowland, and upland; its long, snaking coastline with a rich marine ecosystem make this region probably ‘the’ area with the greatest biodiversity in all of Scotland. On my trips I planned to scale the Paps of Jura and see golden eagles dip and dive with their neighbours; discover locally common, but nationally scarce butterflies like the marsh fritillary on Islay and explore the sand dunes of Coll with the hope of catching a glimpse of the elusive sand lizard from the onlycolonyin Scotland.

Local ferries provided me with the sea road to complete the adventure, along with maybe some chance sightings of Manx shearwaters wing tipping the waves, gannets plunge diving (their reinforced skull key to their fishing technique) and maybe a cry from the upper decks that a local ‘A’ list celebrity was spotted! I’m not talking human, of course, but regular locals like Minke whale, basking shark or Atlantic dolphin.

As I neared Port Ellen on that inaugural visit, the sun was just breaking sky over The Oa. I gently started up the family estate, patted the dashboard and muttered some words of encouragement. The bright sun flooded the hold and as we rolled down the ramp, a wee butterfly fluttered inside and my dreams dissolved.

The islands of Argyll play host to a huge variety of wildlife that has inspired many. It is only through ongoing biodiversity conservation action that this can be maintained. But, with this new Biodiversity Action Plan we are committing to this work, and ensuring that future generations will be able to tell their friends, family and grandchildren of their own Argyll and Bute odyssey, just as exciting as that described above by our future wildlife enthusiast.

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Foreword

In this era of uncertain times, we too often underestimate the contribution that the biodiversity process and actions can have on our land, freshwater and marine resources that we depend on, directly or indirectly for our business or employment, or which contributes to our quality of life and well-being.

When I became involved as chair of Argyll & Bute Local Biodiversity Partnership, I was particularly impressed with the variety of habitats and species that by all accounts gives us the accolade of having ‘Some of the best Biodiversity in Britain’. The partnership leads on many important local projects which have inspired others to engage with local communities and businesses by our successes with the Community Action for Biodiversity Phase I and Phase II projects ‘Make the Link with your Sink’ to mention a few. Nationally, we work in partnership to deliver biodiversity benefits to many important habitats and species through the woodland grazing project and the Rhododendron ponticum project , which extends from Argyll to the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. We have lead the way in recognising that Invasive Non-Native Species is one of the biggest threats to our biodiversity and economic development. We are working with partners to engage with landowners to control Rhododendron ponticum and Japanese Knotweed.

Our business community has become more conscious than most of the need to care for our environment and recognise their capacity to contribute to its’ conservation by adopting green measures in terms of recycling, e-purchasing and renewable resources and energy. Similarly, our farmers, crofters, landowners, foresters, fishermen and anglers, tourism providers and individuals recognise they can all play our part in the conservation and enhancement of our biodiversity and accrue economic benefits from our ecosystem services.

The revised Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan has taken a lead from the Scottish Biodiversity Strategies Implementation Plans by adopting the ecosystem approach. This is a shared approach with the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Authority Biodiversity Action Plan. Our ecosystems are Woodland, Freshwater, Marine and Coastal, Upland, Lowland and Farmland and the Built environment; individual work programmes accompany these. Each ecosystem work programme will benefit local and where applicable nationally threaten and need to be conserved habitats and species. Our contribution both to local and national biodiversity targets will help to strengthen our ecosystem resources that will sustain our local biodiversity integrity to benefit our local economies, our jobs and our future.

The partnership approach has underpinned all our work to date, it garners voluntary effort by the Partnership's membership and by community groups, this will be fundamental to our future success.

We invite your help by participating in our ecosystem work programmes by volunteering so that we deliver the biodiversity benefit that sustains Argyll and Bute as a leading area. The completion and publication of the revised Local Biodiversity Action Plan must be seen not as the end in itself, but the route to the development and change which will realise the objectives and ensure the maintenance and enhancement of our cherished biodiversity.

Cllr. Bruce Marshall, Chair of Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Partnership

vi Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Argyll and Bute is one of the most biodiverse areas in the UK. This is the result of the area itself being incredibly varied, with a massive variety of landscapes, from the sea lochs, to the hills, to islands. The Argyll and Bute economy relies on these great ecological assets, through ecotourism, renewable energy, agriculture and forestry. Geographic focus boxes below give a brief flavour of the great variety of biodiversity and actions that are being carried out throughout Argyll and Bute. These demonstrate what has been achieved and inspire us to continue to work to conserve our natural heritage.

Oban, Lorn and the Islands Cowal and Helensburgh

With its diverse landscape and seascape, Oban, Lorn and the Islands The Cowal peninsula is rich in wildlife and home to many active boast many accolades including the ‘Gateway to Scotland’s Sea groups committed to nature conservation. The Red Squirrel Group is Kingdom’ and encompass a rich variety of habitats and species. organising many projects and events with the aim to protect Cowal’s status as one of the UK strongholds for this species. The Cowal Bat On the mainland, the combination of mountains, hills, low lying Group is active in raising community awareness of all the benefits that wetlands, lochs and deep-sea lochs giving rise to a plethora of bats bring to the ecosystem. Bat Group volunteers are also wildlife, and host agriculture, forestry, eco-tourism, aquaculture and undertaking conservation and research projects and advising builders marine research. Of special note are the Atlantic oak and hazel and architects how to protect and preserve bat roosts. woods that form some of the most important forests for biodiversity in Europe, particularly for fungi, lichens and bryophytes. One of the jewels of Cowal is hidden in the depths of Loch Eck in North Cowal: here the powan – a rare freshwater fish – can be found. Just off the coast, Argyll and Bute’s only serpulid reef is found, in This species is endemic to only Loch Eck and Loch Lomond – both Loch Creran. Again this is European importance because of its within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. special characteristics. The Argyll and Bute Black Grouse Recovery Project continues to The islands also display a great diversity, arising from their own target the Cowal Peninsula, given the major declines in this bird in distinct geographies and habitats. Internationally important machair recent years. features highly, on Coll, Colonsay, Machrihanish (Kintyre), Tiree and on Mull, at Calgary Bay. Here, the habitat is looked after by the Around Helensburgh, the mud flats, shore-line, open moors, “Friends of” group, who have undertaken a number of successful agricultural land, domestic gardens, woodlands, reservoirs and rivers coastal management projects, highlighting the many benefits of contain a multitude of different species. community involvement in conservation. Visitors to the area can spot otter, seal and different butterflies, The enormous amount of publicity generated by re-introductions and including the rare small pearl-bordered fritillary. It’s no wonder this other iconic wildlife in this part of Argyll has hugely benefitted the community is also very active in the conservation of their local local economy. Visitors and residents are becoming more aware of biodiversity, with the Duchess Wood Management Programme a important species as a result, and reports by the public allow prime example. This is the only Local Nature Reserve in Argyll and agencies to follow up sightings on the look out for further Bute! colonisations. vii Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

The Kintyre Peninsula and Coast

With its rocky shores and sandy beaches, the Kintyre peninsula is an area of outstanding natural beauty and home to an abundance of wildlife, on land, and in the air and surrounding seas. Indeed, it is a stronghold for the majestic golden eagle, the national bird of Scotland.

Colonies of grey and common seals can be found here, and basking sharks, bottlenose dolphins and even minke whales are occasionally seen along the coast. In autumn flocks of white-fronted geese – Europe’s rarest goose arrive from Greenland, and can be seen on the lochs and pastures of the windswept Atlantic seaboard, where they will spend the winter months.

Inshore, the Kintyre peninsula offers some amazing examples of native woodland, including the Skipness Caledonian Forest Reserve and many beautiful examples of Atlantic oak woodland. These woodlands also support a phenomenal diversity of mosses and liverworts (bryophytes) and lichens – including many internationally rare species and communities.

Campbeltown, the largest settlement in Kintyre, is well-known for the birdlife supported by its loch, which attracts many species of duck and waders in winter, with a particularly wide variety of species during the migration periods. It has also played host to a number of sightings of vagrant species in recent years, including smew, American widgeon, Eurasian spoonbill, white stork and glossy ibis.

With the wide variety of wildlife on offer in Kintyre, it is little wonder that it is such a popular tourist destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The conservation of the diverse habitats in this part of Scotland is of benefit for locals and visitors alike and protecting its spectacular wildlife is of not only intrinsic, but also economic benefit.

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Contents

Page no.

1. Introduction...... 1 2. Achieving Action ...... 7 3. Vision ...... 9 4. Climate Change...... 12 5. Delivering the Scottish Biodiversity Duty...... 2 6. Biodiversity Indicators...... 27 7. Habitats and Species Enhancement Programme...... 28 8. Ecosystem Work Programmes 2010-2015...... 29 8.1 Freshwater...... 30 8.2 Marine and Coastal...... 39 8.3 Lowland and Farmland...... 47 8.4 Woodland...... 56 8.5 Upland...... 69 8.6 Built Environment...... 75 9. Management of the Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan...... 83

Appendix 1. Habitats selected for action...... 87 Appendix 2. Species selected for action...... 89 Appendix 3. List of unfunded proposed work programmes...... 94 Appendix 4. List of Abbreviations...... 96 Appendix 5. Green Networks...... 100

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1. Introduction

The first Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Local Action Plan (A&B LBAP 2001) led to a multitude of initiatives over its 5 year duration. Like all LBAPs of its generation it was ambitious and wide ranging, but thanks to the vision, hard work and drive of many people, substantial progress was made. A detailed progress review has been produced, and is detailed in Technical Report 1: Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2001 Progress Review. We are pleased to highlight particular successes from the first LBAP on the Council’s biodiversity web pages, available on www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/biodiversity.

The production of this second LBAP has required a stock-take of these efforts and achievements to date, and the outcome of this has informed the next phase of the biodiversity process, which serves to focus on the following:

through six Ecosystem Work Programmes, particular habitats and species that are under threat; the consequences of climate change. These are increasingly evident, not just on wildlife but on our own society and standard of living; and the need to develop a more sustainable and greener economy.

Given these immense challenges, the principles embedded in the Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 are:

the need to broaden the range of people taking action – preaching to the converted is not enough and will not deliver either the scale of resources or action needed. The LBAP therefore aims to engage more and a wider variety of people, organisations, business and communities in delivering a healthier natural environment;

a greater sense of urgency – many species and habitats are facing continued or increasing pressures. As a result, urgent action is needed so the new LBAP has focussed on objective and realistic priorities while feeding in to a sustained long-term conservation strategy; and

delivery of these by inspiring, engaging and encouraging positive change – promoting greener consumerism, the spread of environmentally informed attitudes, behaviour, understanding, and ultimately delivering a greener, more sustainable economy.

This LBAP is clearly about wildlife, but it also reflects the fact that the well-being of habitats and species are inextricably linked to our own. Argyll and Bute is in a particularly strong position to benefit from a greener economy, and it is especially appropriate therefore that this Local Biodiversity Action Plan considers this more business-orientated perspective. Indeed, engaging business and incorporating their contribution is essential in moving towards a sustainable economy and to safeguard our biodiversity.

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2 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Summary of Local Biodiversity Action in Argyll and Bute Bumble bee project on Coll and Tiree

The A&B LBAP 2010-2015 builds on work completed by past and on-going projects in the Bumblebees provide vital pollination services for agricultural crops and Council area, and also aims to deliver co-ordinated action with the neighbouring Loch Lomond wildflowers. However, there have and Trossachs National Park Authority (and its LBAP). By learning from the lessons of been substantial declines throughout implementing its ambitious original plan, the second A&B LBAP encompasses realistic projects the UK over the last 70 years, linked that are deliverable, using a format based upon the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy ecosystem with an estimated loss of 98% of approach, and common to the National Park. wildflower meadows. Argyll and Bute is unique, being the only region where all 18 bumblebee species occur. In addition, Argyll and Bute Leading by example hosts an endemic subspecies of moss carder bee on the Hebridean islands. Argyll and Bute has an incredibly varied landscape from the sea lochs, to the hills, to islands, While all species of bumblebee require wildflower and as a result is one of the most biodiverse areas in the UK. The Argyll and Bute economy meadows, management needs to be undertaken on relies on these great ecological assets, through ecotourism, renewable energy, agriculture and different habitats, such as farmland, uplands and machair. forestry. Therefore, tackling bumblebees as a discrete work programme is not practical. Instead, the ecosystem work There is a wide variety of flagship projects and community groups already active in the area. A programme approach provides the ideal mechanism to better target the requirements of different species of series of information boxes (like the on to the right) are found throughout the Plan to give a bumblebees in different habitats and co-ordinate and deliver flavour of the great variety of biodiversity and actions throughout Argyll and Bute. They appropriate projects throughout the area. Other priority demonstrate what has been achieved and inspire us to continue to work to conserve our natural species such as mountain ringlet and marsh fritillary heritage. butterflies will benefit too. Bumblebee Conservation are taking the lead, co-ordinating National and local context wider countryside surveys for dedicated volunteers and more accessible surveys for the more common ‘Big 6’ The Scottish Biodiversity Strategy (SBS) vision for Scotland in 2030 is that: bumblebees for members of the public with a more casual interest. In addition, site specific monitoring methods are being developed as part of the great yellow bumblebee ‘Scotland is recognised as a world leader in biodiversity conservation. Everyone is Species Action Framework (SAF). involved; everyone benefits. The nation is enriched.’ Educational and practical initiatives will be run in tandem, The Argyll and Bute Council (A&BC), and the neighbouring Loch Lomond and Trossachs engaging the public through schools and attendance at events, encouraging involvement in recording and National Park Authority, are working to ensure that this vision becomes a reality. The second promoting wildlife gardening techniques, creating additional Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan (A&B BAP 2010-2015) therefore contributes to the refuges for bumblebees throughout the built environment. aims, objectives and actions described at a national level and to the delivery of a number of Partnership projects with RSPB, Scottish Wildlife Trust other strategies and plans relevant to the biodiversity of the Council area. The principal ones (SWT), British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV), are: landowners and other groups will create wildflower meadows in the wider countryside and in large public gardens, improving connectivity of bumblebee habitat.

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UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP); Black grouse conservation Scottish Biodiversity Strategy (SBS); Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) Species Action Framework; In 2009, funding was provided through a Scottish Forestry Strategy; partnership of SNH, Argyll and Bute Woodland and Forestry Strategy; Forestry Commission Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) Cowal & Trossachs Forest District Strategic Plan; Scotland, (FCS) RSPB Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) West Argyll Forest District Strategic Plan; Scotland, Scottish Power and GDF Suez for a Argyll & Bute Structure Plan Black Grouse Project Officer to cover Argyll and Stirling Argyll & Bute Local Plan areas. The project officer co-ordinates the Argyll Black Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) Regional Priorities; Grouse Survey and encourages positive habitat Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Biodiversity Action Plan 2008-2011 (NP management for black grouse in key areas. This builds on BAP); and work previously carried out in Argyll, through the black grouse recovery project that ran from 2002-2005. Loch Lomond & the Trossachs Local Woodland and Forestry Framework. In 2010, a combination of 32 volunteers, 3 survey Working in partnership contractors, FCS rangers and the project officer conducted lek counts, co-ordinated counts and lek searches throughout Argyll. Information was also gathered from The Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Partnership was formed in 1997 with 31 partners ecological consultants working throughout Argyll, and signing up to selecting, writing and implementing the first LBAP. The following is a list of casual records. A total of 218 displaying males were some of the partners who have made a valuable contribution to biodiversity action in the area recorded at 108 leks, with single displaying males making since then. up 70 of these records.The 38 leks of 2 or more males held the majority of lekking blackcock with a total of 148 males.

Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is working with landowners to bring all designated wildlife Increased survey effort this year has contributed to higher sites into favourable habitat condition. numbers being found in Argyll in 2010. Comparison between years is difficult due to the differing survey effort Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS), own and manage 20% of Argyll and Bute. Their each year. However, numbers remain precariously low, and modern approach to commercial forestry incorporates wildlife conservation as a matter of therefore vulnerable to local extinctions. course. FCS contributes to many conservation projects, from black and red-throated diver raft Key areas have been identified, where the project officer is provision, to woodland grazing schemes. Work on the ground is delivered by FCS staff in the currently contacting, encouraging and providing advice to 2 Forest Districts that cover the Council area - West Argyll, and Cowal and Trossachs. land owners/tenants to carry out positive habitat management for black grouse. Collaboration between land managers is essential to ensure management on a The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Scotland (RSPB), Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) landscape scale. Funding opportunities for black grouse and Woodland Trust Scotland (WTS) between them manage an expanding network of habitat enhancement are available through the Scottish reserves, many of which have excellent visitor facilities and learning programmes. Rural Development Programme- Rural Priorities.

For more information contact: There are 45 businesses currently participating in the Visit Scotland Green Tourism Business Alison Phillip, Black Grouse Project Officer Scheme, and the number is growing each year. [email protected] or 0141 331 0993

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Argyll and Bute’s Eco Schools promoted by the Group for Recycling in Argyll & Bute Trust Rivers in the Classroom (GRAB), Biodiversity Initiatives in School Grounds and ‘Do your Bit for Biodiversity’ have helped children to understand environmental issues. These initiatives also stimulate curiosity in the natural world, allowing children to explore the great wealth of biodiversity around them.

Eco-tourism brings in an estimated £30 million into the local economy, and the green business sector is also performing well, notably with large scale investment being made in the renewable energy sector. On the back of this, energy companies are making major contributions to biodiversity work in the area.

Community Catchment Management guidelines were produced as part of the Community Action for Biodiversity project. They are a tool to help the development of local catchment management plans.

Delivered by Argyll Fisheries Trust (AFT), this project raises awareness of primary school children about the ecology of, and factors that affect fish and fish habitat in our rivers.

Children at 6 schools a year are introduced to the aquatic environment through classroom-based presentations by AFT biologists.

The children are taught about various subjects including the importance of conserving fish populations and their habitats. They are shown how to operate fish egg incubation units, which are looked after until the eggs hatch into alevins and develop into fry in the early spring.

Theclassesarethentakenonafieldtriptoariverintheir area where fry are planted into the rivers. The habitat requirements of fish and invertebrates are also highlighted during these visits.

Later in the programme the children are shown the processes of juvenile fish survey techniques such as electro-fishing. This allows the children to see the different developmental stages of fish first hand.

This project is supported by SNH, Loch Awe Improvement Association (LAIA) and the A&B LBAP

5 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Production of the Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 Marsh fritillary butterfly conservation

Review of the first Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan

Lead partner updates Habitat and Species Sift

Report to Steering Group

Results of Sift and consultation Ecosystem approach and related habitats and species The main Scottish populations of this species are now confined to Argyll, currently reported from about 40 10km squares. It occurs on the mainland between Glen Creran in the north and West Loch Tarbert on the Kintyre peninsula in the south, and also on the islands of Mull, Colonsay, Oronsay, Islay and Jura. Nature reserves with the marsh Draft revised Local Biodiversity Action Plan fritillary include Taynish and Glasdrum (Scottish Natural Heritage), Gruinart (RSPB) and Shian Wood (Scottish Wildlife Trust).

Partners consulted on ecosystem work programme Public consultation for 6 weeks Conservation work has focused on habitat improvement, much of which is being delivered through the Scottish Rural Development Programme - Rural Priorities.

Butterfly Conservation has played a key role in assisting with management plans for farmers, crofters and landowners.

Launch of the second Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan Community engagement has been through a series of workshops hosted by Butterfly Conservation and local recorders.

As a result of this combined work, numbers are increasing through positive management effort.

For more information contact: Update Biodiversity Action Reporting System and report annually Tom Prescott, Butterfly Conservation. [email protected]

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Rhododendron ponticum control project What the Plan will deliver Although rhododendron clearance The Plan focuses on the most important priorities for conservation over the next 5 years, has been going on for many years, the resources for a more strategic building on the work achieved to date and aiming to reach the longer term vision set out for 2030 and co-ordinated approach to control by the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy (SBS). have only become available more recently. A project was established in It takes a pragmatic approach, recognising that delivery will primarily result from the work October 2008, to identify priority sites, encourage owners to begin already being carried out by the LBAP partners. The Plan does, however, aim to highlight these programmes of control and to provide projects and integrate them where appropriate, to encourage partnership working. As part of advice on grant availability and this, it aims to foster improved delivery with the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park control techniques. Local Biodiversity Action Plan. This is practical and makes ecological sense, while also enabling close co-operation across this administrative divide to achieve shared conservation TheworkisfundedbyFCS,LochLomondandTrossachs National Park (LLTNP) and SNH with an initial lifespan of 3 goals. years.

The A&B LBAP also aims to highlight the work underway, and attract new resources to help Early work has consisted of gathering information on sites deliver these priority projects. By raising their profile, it simultaneously aims to secure the affected by rhododendron and contacting owners and resources needed for other priority projects, which partners want to deliver but currently lack agents to encourage control, particularly in collaboration with neighbours. Several owners are now developing resources to do so. proposals for key sites throughout the region.

To maintain momentum and ensure the Plan remains relevant, it will undergo a formal review A strategy document has been produced which sets out every year, as a rolling 5-year business plan linked to the corporate planning/funding cycles of criteria for prioritising control work. Sites identified as having particular biodiversity value will continue to be targeted but the main organisations aiming to deliver it. Progress and outcomes will be reported each year there is also renewed emphasis on all ancient woodland as a part of the Council’s corporate planning system. The Plan will also feed into the monitoring sites, with scope to deal with all sites on their individual and reporting systems for the Council and the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy. merits. In particular owners and their neighbours will be encouraged to continue and expand on control where work has been carried out in the past. An important element of all invasive species control is an understanding of the long term nature of the work. Owners and agents are therefore being encouraged to produce a long term management plan outlining proposals for clearance of rhododendron beyond the initial 5 year period of the current grant system. An example of such a plan has been produced and is available from the project officer.

For more information contact: Project Officer; Stephen Murphy Tel:01492 281708 Mob:07827 982057 [email protected]

7 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 2. Achieving Action through the Ecosystem Work Shark tagging and research project Programme

The scope for potential work to benefit biodiversity is huge. Therefore, delivering action requires a wide range of resources to be harnessed and for efforts to be combined through effective collaboration.

Every government and non-government agency has a duty to protect and enhance biodiversity. Significant improvement needs to be made in delivery of this duty, and whilst funds are limited, particularly in the current economic climate, with innovation they can deliver significant progress.

Most of Argyll and Bute is privately owned, and under a wide variety of land management A number of shark, skate and ray species are found in the regimes. These landowners already make valuable contributions to biodiversity management, seas around Scotland. Many of these including common skate and spur dog are described internationally as for example through grazing practices, way leave management, sensitively designed cutting endangered with populations declining but here in Argyll regimes, set-aside areas and field margins, deer control and mink culling. At the same time, and Bute there are what may be some of the last remnant they need to maintain profit margins, and so require the support of government grant schemes populations of these animals. and management advice in order to do more, which many are keen to do. Both species are the subject of popular sports fisheries in Loch Etive, the Sound of Mull and the Firth of Lorne. Many Private commercial forestry is a major land use in the area, and there is also a major proportion anglers weigh, measure and tag the fish before releasing of the Council area managed as part of the National Forest Estate by FCS. Enhanced them in order to allow data on growth rate and movement to management of these forest areas is therefore particularly critical to conservation work in Argyll be collected if the fish is recaptured. and Bute. Data on sharks, skates and rays is very scarce and the information provided by the anglers will therefore help Local naturalists provide an essential reservoir of specialist local knowledge of a variety of taxa, conservation efforts in the future. while other volunteers are keen to learn these skills, or offer management expertise and enthusiasm. Volunteers are the single-most important resource for undertaking biodiversity James Thorburn is the Shark Project Officer for the Scottish conservation projects. Without their generous contribution of time, skills and their passion for Sea Angling Conservation Network, based in Oban (SSACN http://www.ssacn.org/). His post is funded by SNH and the biodiversity it would be impossible to achieve the vast majority of conservation goals Leader programme.

Different avenues of funding and resources are available to the different groups involved in James’ responsibilities include setting up and publicising the biodiversity conservation. In addition, businesses contribute funding for biodiversity new Scottish Shark Tagging Programme and working with a conservation projects, offering an excellent opportunity to feed in to regional biodiversity goals wide variety of organisations to promote the project. coordinated through this Plan. For more information go to: http://www.tagsharks.com/

8 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft With the myriad skills, resources, stakeholders and funding avenues involved, it is only through coordinated partnership working that substantial biodiversity conservation can be taken forward at a regional level.

Next steps

This Plan sets out over 70 projects that A&B LBAP partners aim to deliver during its 5 year span, and it also provides a co-ordinated Ecosystem Work Programme structure for this conservation action, identifying habitats and species requiring priority action in the Council area. The next steps are to help deliver and promote the funded projects and also to secure the necessary resources to deliver the other agreed priority projects for which resources are still needed.

ECOSYSTEMS

Freshwater Marine and Lowland Woodland Upland Built And Wetland Coastal And Programme Programme Environment Programme Programme Farmland Programme Programme

Lead Partners and Stakeholders

Achievement Monitoring Plan and Install in BARS Annual Progress Report

9 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 3. Vision Bryophytes – the forgotten plants? Mosses and liverworts The Vision for 2030 (collectively known as bryophytes) are a Argyll and Bute has delivered many varied conservation projects, enhancing our reputation as common sight on a national biodiversity hot spot and earning us the title of conservation, eco-tourism and re- Scotland’s wet western newable energy capital of Britain. Through these achievements, we are recognised as the UK coast. The presence of these generally little flagship of how biodiversity conservation can contribute to a sustainable economy involving all noted plants is one we sectors of the community. take for granted but it should be remembered Aspirations for 2030 that Scotland, and its western coastline in particular, has been bestowed with a rich bryophyte diversity compared to the rest of Europe. Our varied geology and cool, damp Ecosystem approach climate formed a perfect substrate for the colonisation of bryophytes following the end of the last glaciation and we The Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 priority species and habitats are now have some of the world’s rarest bryophytes on our very stable in population size, range and quality. The ecosystem work programmes successfully doorstep. achieved a balance between the interests of nature conservation, economic landowners and Onesuchexampleisthemarshearwort(Jamesoniella tourism, with all sectors working together. Habitat quality and connectivity have been devel- undulifolia). This is a very rare liverwort of valley mires and oped, allowing the species that were previously facing population declines to expand back into raised bogs, and is a Red Data Book species in Britain. original areas of distribution. The marsh earwort is only found in 3 locations within the UK and is considered to be internationally rare, being widely but Invasive species sparsely distributed throughout northern temperate regions of the globe. The only Scottish population of the marsh earwort is located just outside Moine Mhor SSSI in Argyll. Invasive non-native species present has been halted or slowed with control and removal of mink, grey squirrel, signal crayfish, Japanese knotweed, Rhododendron ponticum, Himalayan Elsewhere in the UK, marsh earwort populations have balsam, New Zealand pygmyweed, Canadian waterweed, Nuttal’s waterweed and Sargassum already been lost through drainage of habitat, afforestation, muticum over large areas. We have a greater understanding of the ecology of Japanese eutrophication from agricultural runoff and poaching by skeleton shrimp and the controls necessary to prevent impacts on native habitats and species livestock. as well as commercial fish and shellfish growing. Invasive species have been eradicated from The humble marsh earwort does not have the charisma of key sites for native biodiversity. the red squirrel, or the majesty of the white tailed eagle. However, this species and other bryophytes all contribute to Designated sites Argyll and Bute’s biodiversity, so it is equally important to halt the decline of this rich and diverse group of plants for a The network of sites with statutory nature conservation designations has been extended, re- new generation of budding bryologists. ducing habitat fragmentation and ensuring key habitats and species are protected. More com- For further information go to: munity nature sites are established, and afforded Local Nature Reserve designations where www.plantlife.org.uk appropriate. All designated sites are in favourable conservation status.

10 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Energy from trees Climate change Tackling climate change is The suite of designated sites are connected and well managed, buffering species against the most significant of all environmental needs facing climate change where possible, and allowing them to adapt through moving to new areas. society. As well as a much Habitats providing important ecosystem services, such as carbon storage or flood mitigation greater emphasis on energy are maintained and enhanced. Research into key indicator species has provided a better conservation and efficiency, understanding of the real impacts of climate change on the region. Argyll and Bute is a home grown renewable national leader in renewable energy – both on and offshore – whilst ensuring all developments energy projects are therefore essential. avoid significant impacts and actually benefit local biodiversity. Argyll has been bestowed People with a climate ideal for the production of renewable resources in the form of The conservation and enhancement of biodiversity lies at the centre of all communities and wind energy, tidal energy, business development throughout Argyll and Bute. The public are fully involved in maintaining wave energy and biomass local biodiversity, directly contributing through conservation management action by reserves. volunteering and recording species groups. With careful consideration to ecology, biomass resources, such as timber, can be used for the production of both heat Education and electricity.

There is a multitude of programmes to raise public awareness of their local biodiversity, and Mainland Argyll holds almost 15% of Scotland's entire the projects working to enhance this invaluable resource. Information about biodiversity and conifer reserves within the National Forest Estate. This offers the opportunity to develop biomass heat and power sustainability are widely available and easily accessible to schoolchildren, researchers, installations as a local contribution to tackling climate students and other members of the public. All schools have hands-on environmental change. education features and are directly participating by providing habitats for wildlife. Awareness of biodiversity priorities and legislation is widespread amongst planners, landowners and other Argyll would be an ideal place to show that by providing professionals, and specialist resources are available to ensure full consideration of Argyll and biomass energy locally, it is possible to reduce the carbon footprint of local industries and the area as a whole. Money Bute’s species and habitats in all land management and business development. made from this industry can then be fed back into FCS supported National Nature Reserves, such as Glen Nant, Landscapes and ecosystems Taynuilt. Glen Nant is rich communities of birds, mammals, insects, lichens, bryophytes and plants, all of which depend The landscapes of Argyll and Bute are diverse with healthy ecosystems, rich in biodiversity. on this moist, sheltered environment. Land-use planning, business and the tourism industry all integrate the needs of productive In this way, Argyll and Bute is in a strong position to ecosystems with economic development. The coastal ecosystems are self-sustaining and demonstrate how a sustainable economy can help support protected under the Marine Act, harbouring a large variety of species, with protected and the region during the current recession and combat climate regulated areas ensuring sensitive species continue to maintain healthy populations in our change, while also benefiting local biodiversity waters. The beautiful and varied landscapes, coupled with exceptional biodiversity have

11 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft resulted in an expansion in eco-tourism, for which Argyll and Bute is now a top UK destination. Sympathetically designed renewable energy developments do not detract from our scenery, but are viewed as a best-practice model for other areas, while the success of this industry continues to fund action to benefit local biodiversity priorities identified by the A&B LBAP.

Knowledge Wildlife recording and monitoring are well established and supported by the public, as well as professionals. High-quality data is collected and a continuous flow of new knowledge informs the ongoing conservation projects, and identifies new priorities. Necessary research is well funded and knowledge about all aspects of the environment continuously enhanced. Existing data is widely distributed and easily accessible to all, to inform appropriate development, land management, conservation action, ecotourism and scientific research.

12 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 4. Coping with Climate Change Marine and coastal habitats – at the forefront of climate change Climate change is not a new phenomenon. The earth's climate has been going through cycles of global warming, cooling and glaciation long before humans arrived. The difference this time is that we have used our ability to free CO2 from existing ‘sinks’ (i.e. fossil fuels such as coal, peat and oil) and released it into the atmosphere at a rate which nature cannot match. As a result, the increase in the rate of global warming we are currently witnessing relates directly to man's activities over the last few hundred years.

The long term impacts can be hard to predict, the changes in climate change are guaranteed to have a knock on effect on the wildlife and habitats we have become accustomed to in our special corner of the UK. While birds and mammals may generally be quite mobile and able to modify their geographic ranges to match the changing conditions, many plants and less mobile animals may not be quite so fortunate. Some habitats are becoming fragmented restricting the ability of species to commute to more suitable areas, and this is expected to become more common in the future. In some cases the habitats that particular species rely on may be The Argyll and Bute coastline and marine environment is completely lost, resulting in local, national and international extinction events. home to a plethora of important and diverse habitats:- saltmarshes, mudflats, seagrass beds, deep water benthic mud and knotted wrack-ecad mackaii beds. At the same time as we are losing long established species native to our area, new species are moving in as the climate and habitats become suitable for them. These species are not The long and complex coastal habitats which interact with native to our area – or even our country in some cases! – but may also be moving from their strong Atlantic currents and the effects of the Gulf Stream traditional areas which are no longer suitable for them. Others may simply be expanding their and varying coastal flow types, specifically tidal rapids, make this coastline one of the most productive in Scotland, range as more habitat becomes available, with little loss. Therefore, it can be difficult to providing a rich environment for marine fauna and flora. decide the best reaction to these newcomers. In some cases, attempting to control or eradicate them may result in their extinction as their old range becomes unsuitable. Of particular importance are the serpulid reefs in Loch Therefore, monitoring the changes in distribution on a wider scale is of great importance to Creran which are endemic not only within Scotland, but the UK as a whole, and provide one of the most well developed allow us to conserve species at the international level. examples worldwide. These reefs are constructed by the polychaete worm Serpula vermicularis andprovideahabitat So what are we doing about global warming? Within Scotland, the Climate Change (Scotland) for a wide variety of species and are of international importance. These reefs are therefore both a species and Act 2009 has introduced new targets to reduce CO2 emissions by at least 80% by 2050. One of the ways we hope to achieve this target is to increase the proportion of our energy habitat priority. generated using renewable resources. A&B is ideally placed to capitalise on this burgeoning Sub-littoral sands and gravels support large aggregations of industry, as it is rich in potential renewable resources such as wave, wind and tidal energy as hydroids, sea anemones, sea squirts, bivalves and sea well as biomass (or biofuel) resources, such as woodfuel. urchins while seagrass beds provide safe spawning grounds and shelter for a number of fish species such as pipefish, goby and pollock. Contd.

13 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Argyll and Bute is already forging ahead to optimise on the growing renewables market and Marine Habitats contd..... need for 'green' energy. In February 2009, Scotland was awarded the rights to construct 10 Amongst this offshore wind energy sites, with 3 of the larger sites identified off the coast of Argyll and Bute. great marine biodiversity are some very rare It is important that any renewable energy developments are designed so we are not species, combating climate change at the expense of our local biodiversity. To ensure optimal efficacy including the of contributions to biodiversity that are tied to these developments, these actions should be northern coordinated through the Argyll and Bute LBAP Working Group and the priority species and hatchet shell which is habitats identified in this Plan. It is also essential that planners and developers are fully aware endemic to of the key potential biodiversity sensitivities that must be assessed before any development Argyll and Bute can be consented. in Scotland.

The west coast waters off the inner Hebrides are of both UK Objectives and European importance for cetaceans. The region is home to cetacean species typical of both warm and cold The following objectives have been identified to protect and enhance biodiversity within Argyll oceans, resulting in a high level of biodiversity. and Bute and reduce the rate and effects of climate change: Approximately 19 cetacean species have been recorded off the coast of Argyll and Bute including some of the great whale species, such as the blue whale and fin whale. improve connectivity between key habitats to facilitate the movement of Although these species are considered to be transient, they organisms in response to climate change; are clearly drawn to the area due to its high productivity and conserve and enhance our existing biodiversity to ensure that it is robust and so excellent foraging habitat. Common dolphin, bottlenose better able to cope with climate change; dolphin, harbour porpoise, minke whale, orca whale and white-beaked dolphin all use these waters regularly, either protect and enhance exiting carbon storing habitats (carbon sinks); as year round residents or seasonal visitors. improve on existing decision-making tools for local planners to account for the effects of climate change on biodiversity and in assessing impacts of Until recently little was known about these species life developments; cycles, but with research studies being carried out by the promote sustainable flood management through the protection and enhancement Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, the Sea Mammal Research Unit and the Marine Conservation Society, of wetland habitats; and important information is being gathered that will improve the promote the use of green energy sources. understanding of possible threats to these species. Through this work, Argyll and Bute are leading the way by safeguarding cetaceans in this key marine zone.

For more information go to: MCS website at http://www.mcsuk.org/

Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust Website http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/

Scottish Association for Marine Science http://www.sams.ac.uk/

14 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 5. Delivering the Scottish Biodiversity Duty

The Scottish Biodiversity Duty in the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 gives all public ^ĐŽƚůĂŶĚΖƐ ŝŽĚŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJ bodies and office-holders the duty to further the conservation of biodiversity so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of their functions. /ƚΖƐ /Ŷ zŽƵƌ ,ĂŶĚƐ

Argyll & Bute Council has a pivotal role to play in the conservation of the natural environment, the pursuit of economic prosperity and the securing of equal chances for everyone in all aspects of life. ‘Developing quality of life for everyone’ is the overarching aim of the Council’s Corporate Strategy. The conservation of Argyll & Bute’s biodiversity and using the benefits of biodiversity in the delivery of Council services such as social care are central to achieving this corporate goal.

Biodiversity is also key to one of the aims of the Argyll and Bute Council Corporate Plan Aim 2: “Protecting our environment by promoting the principles of environmental sustainability and ensuring that Argyll & Bute continues to be a place where people of all backgrounds want to live, work and visit”. The Corporate Strategy states that priority areas of work include improving areas of nature conservation interest, maintaining biodiversity and protecting habitats and species. National indicators have been developed to measure the extent of protection of biodiversity through the planning process along with the amount of land in Argyll & Bute under appropriate management for biodiversity.

The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Bill 2004 legislation places considerable duties on local authorities to ensure the protection and management of biodiversity.  ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐLJ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŶƐĞƌǀĂƚŝŽŶ Planning Policy Guidance Note Pan 65 Planning and Open Space seeks to secure the effective conservation of wildlife and natural features. Nature conservation ĂŶĚ ĞŶŚĂŶĐĞŵĞŶƚ ŽĨ objectives should be taken into account in all planning activities that affect rural and coastal land use and urban areas with wildlife of local importance. The ďŝŽĚŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJ ŝŶ ^ĐŽƚůĂŶĚ guidance also aims to ensure that nature conservation is a significant material consideration in determining planning applications.

The LBAP is therefore an integral component of the complete and strategic management of the Argyll and Bute area. Scottish Biodiversity Indicator: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2007/10/08091435/1 Scottish Biodiversity List: http://www.biodiversityscotland.gov.uk/

15 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 6. Biodiversity Indicators

The Scottish Government developed a suite of biodiversity indicators for Scotland in 2007. The Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 contributes to these indicators, and a set of targeted indicators relevant to the priorities of the Plan have been developed. These indicators are designed to demonstrate the overall ecological outcome of projects. Therefore, they are separate and in addition to the project reporting and review process, and will be presented alongside the project target reporting at the end of the 5 year Plan.

Biodiversity indicators were not used in the first LBAP so it is not possible to assess trends between then and this second Plan. However, as future A&B LBAP’s should use these new indicators as a baseline, over a longer period (at least until 2030), this will allow future trends to be assessed. Survey and monitoring results from the LBAP and other work will be supplied to national monitoring schemes overseen by other organisations. When analysed as part of these national datasets wider trends will be determined and it will be possible to compare trends in Argyll and Bute with other areas of the country.

The biodiversity indicator results will be presented in the final report for this 5 year plan.

A&B BAP Biodiversity Indicators

Scottish Biodiversity Indicator LBAP Indicator Information Source Status of BAP priority species Status of BAP species for which targeted projects Annual reviews of Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Audit are in place Status of BAP priority habitats Status of BAP habitats for which targeted projects Annual reviews of Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Audit are in place Abundance of terrestrial breeding birds Status of bird species for which targeted projects British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), RSPB and are in place Argyll Bird Club data Trends in butterfly populations Status of butterflies for which targeted projects are Survey and monitoring reports including Butterfly in place Conservation schemes Trends in moth populations Status of moths for which targeted projects are in Survey and monitoring reports including Butterfly place Conservation schemes Woodland structure Status of habitat composition of National Forest FCS plantation datasets and National Woodland Estate Survey for Scotland (NWSS) datasets Terrestrial non-native species range Status of extent and spread of non-native species Invasive Species Work Programme and FCS for which targeted projects are in place reports Marine non-native species range Status of extent and spread of non-native species Invasive Species Work Programme and MarLIN for which targeted projects are in place Marine Aliens datasets

16 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 7. Habitats and Species Enhancement Programme

The central focus of this LBAP is the Habitats and Species Enhancement Programme (HSEP). The HSEP consists of a six costed Ecosystem Work Programmes where the resources to implement individual projects have been allocated in the business plans of the relevant partner organisations. They also include a number of unfunded proposals which we would like to develop and implement as resources become available. This balance between ensuring that actions happen whilst striving to fund new projects will require active involvement of partners to maintain the necessary momentum. It is essential to recognise that there are many other habitats and species that need conservation effort, but don’t all need programmes or specific projects, and resources dictate that not all of them can have the same level of attention. The review process will allow new priorities to be identified as we move towards the 2030 vision.

Habitats and species selected for action The starting point for the selection process was a list of all of the habitats and species previously identified for conservation action through the UK biodiversity process. These included the most recent UK BAP priority habitats and species lists, Scottish Biodiversity List (SBL), and SNH Species Action Framework. The full selection process used to identify the habitats and species included in the HSEP is set out in Technical Report 2: Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 Habitat and Species Selection Process. A summary of the habitats and species selected is provided in Appendices 2 and 3 respectively.

After being selected, the habitats and species were grouped into convenient broad ecosystems, based upon the SBS ecosystem structure. Work programmes were then produced for each of these ecosystems, set out in Chapter 8. Ecosystem work programmes and the habitats and species they will benefit are listed in Appendices 2 and 3. A list of potential projects but as yet unfunded can be found at the end of each Work Programme, and are also listed together in Appendix 4 for ease of reference.

17 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 8. Ecosystem Work Programmes 2010 – 2015

Ecosystems- What are they? An ecosystem is a dynamic complex of plant, animal and micro-organism communities and their non-living environment, all interacting as a functional unit. This approach recognises that habitats and species cannot be considered in isolation but are dependent on maintaining healthy ecosystems, and that the threats and pressures upon these parts of ecosystems need to be addressed in a coordinated way and at appropriate levels. Freshwater and Wetland

The Ecosystems are as follows:

8.1 Freshwater and Wetland Ecosystems 8.2 Marine and Coastal Ecosystems 8.3 Lowland and Farmland Ecosystems Woodland Ecosystems 8.4 Woodland Ecosystems 8.5 Upland Ecosystems 8.6 Built Environment Work Marine and Coastal Eco- systems The 6 Ecosystem Work Programmes will benefit a wide variety of habitats and species throughout Argyll and Bute. The following pages provide the work programmes to be embarked upon from the outset but they will continually evolve, as progress is made and as resources allow.

Lowland and Farmland Ecosystems

Upland Ecosystems

Built Environment

18 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 8.1 Freshwater and Wetland Work Programme

Argyll & Bute has an abundance of freshwater habitats, comprised of both standing and flowing water bodies. The freshwater ecosystem is not just important for biodiversity, but is of critical importance for general environmental and human well being. Freshwater is utilised for drinking, transport, energy production and recreation. So pressures on the resource exist however the advent of the European Water Framework directive aims to en- sure that water bodies are maintained in good condition with an emphasis being sustainable management.

Standing waters range from dystrophic and mesotrophic, nutrient-poor, peat stained lochans with a low species diversity through to mesotrophic lochs of intermediate water chemistry that can be species-rich. Most large lochs in Argyll are oligotrophic and vary greatly in their biodiversity. Some are of international importance, supporting communities of plants, rare fish and bird species. Loch Awe is Scotland’s longest freshwater loch (41km) whilst Loch Lomond is its largest (71km2). Argyll’s rivers and burns are internationally important for freshwater pearl mussel, which is under severe threat from illegal pearl fishing. Other important species associated with flowing waters include high profile ones like the Atlantic salmon whilst others, like Welch’s money spider, remain inconspicuous and little known.

Factors limiting biodiversity of freshwater and wetland ecosystems:

Land use plays a major role in the distribution and quality of freshwater and its habitats; impacts occur on a variety of scales from diffuse pollution and drainage to the inappropriate grazing of wetland habitats. Introduced non-native species – resulting in hybridising; resource competition and predation. Climate change. Wastewater and effluent attributable to various sources. Nutrient enrichment attributable to various sources. Limited information on species distribution and abundance is an obstacle to directing effective conservation work.

The table below lists the priority habitats and species typical of the Freshwater and Wetland Ecosystem. Next are details of the work programme projects being delivered during the 2010-2015 Plan. Further priority projects to take forward as and when resources become available are listed at the end. The Freshwater and Wetland Ecosystem Work Programme will be revised annually.

19 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Work Programme

Habitats Species

Common name Scientific name Common name Scientific name Reedbeds Marsh clubmoss Lycopodiella inundata Common scoter Melanitta nigra Lowland raised bog Irish lady’s-tresses Spiranthes romanzoffiana Black-throated diver Gavia arctica Eutophic standing waters Club sedge Carex buxbaumii Red-throated diver Gavia stellata Rivers False sedge Kobresia simpliciuscula Water vole Arvicola terrestris Mesotrophic lakes Southern yellow splinter Lipsothrix nervosa Otter Lutra lutra Oligotrophic and dystrophic lakes Freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera Soprano pipistrelle bat Pipistrellus pygmaeus Lowland fens Welch’s money spider Erigone welchi Daubenton’s bat Myotis daubentonii Atlantic salmon Salmo salar Noctule bat Nyctalus noctula Sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus Osprey Pandion haliatetus River lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis Dunlin Calidris alpina Greenland white-fronted goose Anser albifrons # denotes a project starting or completing outside this five year programme Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resource Resources in outcomes partner sinplace: place: people finance FW1#: River basin Produce River The River Basin Management Plan 2009- Implement plans through SEPA SG, SEPA SG, SEPA management Catchment Management 2015 for the Scotland River Basin District integration with and and Advisory planning Plans, through a process was published in 2009. Supplementary appropriate policies and Advisory Group led by SEPA but in Area Management Plans are being procedures. Group members 2010-2015 partnership with publishedin2010,includingtheArgylland members responsible authorities Lochaber Area Management Plan and the and other water ClydeAreaManagementPlan(which environment covers Cowal and Bute). stakeholders, and signed off by Scottish These plans describe the current condition ministers. of water bodies, identify those activities that have an adverse impact and detail actions to improve and maintain good ecological status.

Follow-up action may include the development and implementation of specific catchment management plans.

20 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources in outcomes partner in place: place: people finance

FW2#: Ecological Monitoring of selected SEPA has introduced new water All water bodies are of SEPA Landowners, SEPA and monitoring and rivers and lochs carried monitoring and classification systems good ecological status, AFT landowners research out on a rolling that will provide the data to support the or similar objective, by programme, enabling aim of the Water Framework Directive 2015. 2010-2015 classification and (WFD). This holistic approach to prioritisation of actions to monitoring helps to address a range of improve their ecological different pressures. status. The new classification system covers The new monitoring all rivers, lochs, transitional, coastal network enables SEPA to and groundwater bodies, and is based identify further problems on five quality classes. It has been and resolve them, helping devised following EU and UK guidance to improve the water and is underpinned by a range of environment. biological quality elements, supported by measurements of chemistry, hydrology (changes to levels and flows) and morphology (changes to the shape and function of water bodies). Some of the quality elements used in the new ecological classification system have not been monitored in Scotland before.

FW3: Loch Produce Environmental Through development of catchment Take forward the SEPA Local Local catchment Improvement Plans for and loch-based partnerships, at priority conservation and partnerships, partnerships projects priority lochs. sites, deliver improved ecological restoration projects SAC status and biodiversity enhancement. highlighted in the 7 loch 2010-2013 summaries produced to date.

Develop and implement these into full Environmental Improvement Plans for 7 lochs. 21 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance

FW4: Riparian Restore riverside habitats, The2yearEredineForest Establishment the scale of AFT, AFT, SEPA, habitat improving their biodiversity Management Plan runs until 2011 and non-native invasive plant WAFD WAFD, AFT, RIAs, enhancement and that of adjacent rivers, has mapped and trialled the removal of colonisation and prioritise for LAIA, WAFD and with a focus on Loch Awe invasive species from riparian areas management intervention. ADRIA, FW 2010-2014 in particular. within parts of the WAFD forest. Work A&BC, LBO is also being carried out identifying and removing obstacles to fish migration. By 2014, implement treatment of Rhododendron to bring its This pilot study has helped secure the spread within the catchment wider 4 year project on Control of under control, and establish Invasive Plant Species in the Awe long-term regime for control. Catchment, running from 2010 to 2014. This will aim to bring under control key invasive plant species in the catchment.

FW5; Focusing Establish an Brown trout, the ancestrol ferox trout Complete rolling programme AFT AFT AFT brown trout understanding of the and the migratory form, sea trout (all of fish sampling to enable management on genetic make up of trout Salmo trutta), are important fishery characterisation of Argyll and populations populations in Argyll. resources in Argyll and an important Bute’s trout populations. key species to maintaining biodiversity 2010-2015 Use this information to in the region. inform management recommendations for The project aims to build on the model conserving / improving of the Focusing Atlantic Salmon trout populations. Management on Populations (FASMOP) project to identify basic units of management for the trout fishery and understand their diversity and relative rates of biological and economic importance to the fishery.

22 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance

FW6: Fish and Baseline surveys for all This project will expand on the baseline surveys Undertake a rolling AFT AFT AFT habitat surveys fish species. undertaken by AFT, to establish information on programme of surveys, the ecology and biology of native and non-native and record, store and Management fish species in Argyll, alongside habitat surveys. interpret information to recommendations for highlight actions restoring fish Electro-fishing for juvenile salmonids will inform needed for populations. managers of local abundance and highlight conservation of fish specific areas requiring direct conservation stocks and habitats. action. Other species to benefit from these surveys include lampreys and eels, with non- native species also being mapped.

Repeated surveys on priority catchments will identify trends and assist with future management plans.

FW7: Fishery Produce a management The AFT have completed a draft form for the To have Fishery AFT DSFB, AFT, management plan to direct fisheries region’s Fishery Management Plan. It has a Management Plans for RIAs and DSFB, plan conservation for the multi stakeholder base, which draws together all significant fisheries LIAs RIAs and benefit of biodiversity many disciplines and resources to achieve its by 2015 (at a rate of 2 a LIAs 2010-2015 and fisheries resources. goals. This will direct and manage all efforts year). towards protecting and conserving native freshwater species and habitats for the benefit of biodiversity and the fisheries resource.

FW8: Fisheries Educational ‘Rivers in the Classroom’, involves a hands-on Promote use of Rivers AFT AFT AFT awareness programmes for schools approach towards educating Primary school in the Classroom, with programme designed to generate pupils in freshwater fishery science across the 6 primary schools awareness for region. Topics include fish life cycles, involved by 2011. 2010-2015 freshwater science. freshwater conservation, survey techniques and practical instructions for egg incubators and Continue delivery to a Educational materials to hatching procedures. minimum of 6 primary be made available schools a year. online, and to be Materials will be made available online and distributed to schools. distributed.

23 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance FW9: Welch’s money Improved knowledge of This project will establish the current Resurvey historic site to BAS BL BAS, BL spider survey distribution, habitat status of this species by targeted confirm continued requirements and survey effort. presence. 2010-2015 population trends of this species, enabling any local Identify other potential threatstobeidentifiedand sites on Tiree and Coll addressed, where possible. and survey these.

Review site protection and ensure sites are afforded protection where appropriate.

FW10: Arachnid Provision of educational Raise awareness of arachnids Make these materials BL BAS, BL BAS, BL awareness and ID materials to schools and on- through provision of educational available on-line. training line. materials and promote increased recording. Run 1 arachnid survey 2010-2015 Provision of general training course per every arachnid ID sheet. 2years.

RunanarachnidIDand survey training event.

Promote arachnid recording through these resources and events.

24 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance

FW11#: Black- Improved knowledge of Black-throated divers are highly Monitor all known WAFD, RSPB, FCS, SNH, throated diver raft distribution and population threatened and suffer high breeding breeding sites annually, SNH WAFD, and RPS monitoring project trends of this species, failure. They breed on freshwater co-ordinating to ensure and ABC enabling any local threats waterbodies are particularly comprehensive coverage RSPB 2010-2015 to be identified and susceptible to failure due to nests and avoid duplication of addressed, where possible. being flooded. effort. (Red-throated diver monitoring and Improved breeding The installation of artificial rafts on Continue to report overall conservation work is success, through provision suitable water bodies has been population levels and also underway, of well-maintained and found to significantly improve breeding success. particularly through positioned rafts. breeding success, and can also the WAFD and benefit red-throated divers. A large Monitor all waterbodies C&TFD. Their number of artificial rafts have with rafts annually, and support covers both already been deployed, and are carry out rolling species, contributing regularly monitored. Any further programme of raft to monitoring and suitable waterbodies where rafts maintenance. maintenance of diver could be deployed will be identified, rafts) and resources sought to provide Identify any further rafts. All known black-throated diver suitable waterbodies for breeding territories will be monitored raft deployment and biannually with waterbodies with provide new rafts for rafts monitored annually. Site these. condition monitoring will also be undertaken at designated sites by SNH.

25 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance DF1: Dragonfly Improved Survey work will be undertaken aimed at Conduct at lease 1 survey at BDS BDS, SNH, BDS, SNH, distribution knowledge of increasing the information on the known sites every 5 years to Landowners developers survey, habitat dragonfly species, status of existing breeding increase records of Ordonata for and enhancement distribution and pools, distribution and populations within Argyll and Bute. managers, and awareness population trends, A&B. For example, white-faced darter, C&TFD enabling any local an endangered species is currently Provide advice to developers, land 2010-2015 threats to be known to breed at only one location in managers and people carrying out identified and A&B. Survey work will include conservation work to ensure that addressed, where identification of threats to species and Red-listed dragonfly habitats are possible, and to habitats at key sites, and prioritisation of maintained, improved, or where identify and targeted conservation work, as appropriate, created. implement resources allow. opportunities for Deliver 2 guided walks a year to habitat Data will be supplied to national raise profile of dragonflies and enhancement. monitoring databases (including NBN). damselflies.

Promote more widespread recording of Odonata, and submission of records.

DF2: Develop Management Species specific management plans Identify the top 5 sites for BDS BDS, SNH, SNH, management plans will be should be created for all Red-listed important Odonata species in Landowners Landowners plans to developed species, and include breeding and adult Argyll and Bute, and through and and maintain focusing on Red- habitat. liaison with land managers, managers managers existing listed species. provideadvicetoensurehabitats breeding are suitably managed. dragonfly populations Produce generic management plans for the 3 priority Red-listed species.

Assist with the production of site management plans for Red-listed species, by providing management advice, if resources allow. 26 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Freshwater Work Programme- Potential Projects Project title Key outputs and outcomes DF3: Argyll dragonfly To promote awareness of Argyll’s dragonflies and damselflies with land managers and owners, and the public, through production of a leaflet bespoke leaflet suitable to assist with field identification. FW12: Salmon and sea Continuing work from the first phase, which encompassed habitat assessment, undertake monitoring and investigative work to assess trout restoration recruitment of salmon and trout to Loch Fyne rivers. FW13: Removing Continuing work from the first phase, this will aim to secure funds to implement the schedule of prioritised removal of obstacles that stream crossings are present in key watercourses. obstacles to fish migration. FW14: Brown trout Establish an understanding of the genetic make up of trout populations in Argyll and Bute. This will be an extension of FW5 and management - comprise a rolling programme of genetic assessments, working towards a complete genetic characterisation of Argyll and Bute’s trout population genetics in population. MSS has agreed in principle to conduct this genetic analysis. Loch Awe

FW15: River Awe Improved understanding of how the River Awe is used by these species, the River’s habitat status and constraints in operation that salmonids fisheries effect salmonids. This is the follow-on to implement the habitat enhancement work and resolve the constraints identified as inhibiting management plan and salmonid fisheries management in the River Awe. implementation

27 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 8.2 Marine and Coastal Work Programme

Argyll and Bute’s 3,000 miles of convoluted coastline hosts a wide variety of habitats and species with some represented in our Marine and Coastal Ecosystem work programme.

Since 2001 the marine environment of Argyll and Bute has been subject to changes in management for designated sites such as the Firth of Lorn and Loch Creran SACs and areas busy for industry such as Loch Fyne, the Sound of Mull and Loch Etive. Further more rapid change lies ahead. The introduction of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 more recently provides an opportunity to better balance all uses of the sea and development of the marine renewables industry will create new challenges for the protection of marine biodiversity.

The marine environment has seen an increase in recreational activities with many people enjoying sailing, sea kayaking, diving and whale and dolphin watching. Marine education has seen an increase too with the development of the Sea and Learn Education pack and improved further educational facilities at the Scottish Association of Marine Sciences. The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust and the Sealife Centre are just some of the organisations who are involved in awareness raising in Argyll and Bute.

The revised Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 work programme of funded and potential projects below aim to contribute to the enhancement and better understanding of these environments.

Factors limiting the biodiversity of marine and coastal ecosystems:

Unsustainable fishing methods such as seabed trawling and dredging. Pollution from oil spills. Untreated or undertreated discharges including sewage at various locations along the coast. Marine and coastal rubbish. Non-native invasive species. Inappropriately sited developments. Climate change. Limited information on habitat and species distribution is an obstacle to directing effective conservation work. Inappropriate livestock grazing/forestry regimes on coastal habitats.

The table below lists the priority habitats and species typical of the Marine and Coastal Ecosystem. Next are details of the work programme projects being delivered during the 2010-2015 Plan. Further priority projects to take forward as and when resources become available are listed at the end. The Marine and Coastal Ecosystem Work Programme will be revised annually.

28 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Habitats Species Common name Scientific name Common Name Scientific name

Sub-tidal sands and gravels Arthonia atlantica Minke whale Balenoptera acutorostrata Seagrass beds Cladonia peziziformis Common dolphin Delphinus delphis Coastal sand dunes Collema fragile White beaked dolphin Lagenorhynchus albirostris Coastal vegetated shingle Arthothelium norvegicum Bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus Machair Cladonia stereoclada Harbour seal Phoca vitulina Maerl beds Wig wrack or sea-loch Ascophyllum nodosum ecad Grey seal Halichoerus grypus egg wrack mackaii Maritime cliffs and slopes Purple milk-vetch Astragalus danicus Greenland white-fronted goose Anser albifrons Mud habitats in deep water Juniper Juniperus communis Barnacle goose Branta leucopsis Serpulid reefs Dune gentian Gentianella uliginosa Common scoter Melanitta nigra Blue mussel beds Euphrasia heslop-harrisonii Black-throated diver Gavia arctica Tide-swept channels Forester Adscita statices White-tailed eagle Haliaeetus albicilla File shell beds Great yellow bumblebee Bombus distinguendus Corncrake Crex crex Moss carder bee Bombus muscorum Arctic skua Stercorarius parasiticus Red-shanked carder bee Bombus ruderarius Herring gull Larus argentatus Northern colletes Colletes floralis Little tern Sternula albifrons Slender scotch burnet Zygaena loti scotica Common tern Sterna hirundo moth Timid burrowing anemone Edwardsia timida Arctic tern Sterna paradisaea Native oyster Ostrea edulis Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Fan mussel Atrina fragilis Otter Lutra lutra Bend-bearing blunt-brow Silometopus incurvatus Peregrine Falco peregrinus spider Atlantic salmon Salmo salar Redshank Tringa totanus Sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus Common tern Sterna hirundo River lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis Basking shark Cetorhinus maximus Harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena

29 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Marine and Coastal Work Programme # denotes a project starting or completing outside this five year programme Project reference, Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources in Resources title and duration outcomes partner place: in place: people finance MC1: Scottish Shark Tagging and recording A programme aimed at tagging as many Aim to tag a minimum Scottish Scottish Sea SNH, Tagging Programme. data on shark, skate sharks, skate and ray species as of 100 shark, skate or Sea Angling LEADER and ray species found possible in Scottish waters. rays a year, over the Angling Conservation in Scottish coastal plan period. Conser- Network 2010, and Phase 2 in waters throughout the Tagging is a non-destructive method of vation 2011 to 2015 year. gathering data regarding species’ Publicise findings to Network migrations, growth rates, population, help raise the profile stock make-up and fluctuations. of these species and this research. Data gathered from tagging will aid understanding of species abundance, Attend a minimum of key areas/habitats and determine 1 event a year to duration of their presence and the degree publicise the project to which migration takes place. and its findings.

MC2: Whale, dolphin Continued expansion Photo identification (or photo ID) is a Continue to obtain HWDT MCS HWDT, and basking shark of photo identification non-invasive technique used to study photos and add to MCS photo identification catalogue for use in whale and dolphin populations through database. programme population sightings and their locations. This is assessment. particularly important for small dolphin 2010-2015 species and toothed whales which are present part of the year or all year as it will aid in building a catalogue of individuals and identify key habitats through repeat sightings. For migratory species, such as baleen whales, photographs can be compared with other studies worldwide to see if the same individuals have been recorded thus indicating key migratory routes. MC3: SeaSearch Review existing survey Review and add to existing survey As part of the national MCS MSC MCS and survey coverage and plan a reports on seabed habitats and programme, deliver SNH programme of carefully associated marine wildlife. survey data from 1 2010-2015 prioritised surveys. Argyll site a year over 2010-2015. 30 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources in reference, title outcomes partner in place: place: finance and duration people

MC4: Cool Expand Marine Cool Seas is an interactive education Promote the Cool Seas HWDT MCS HWDT, MCS seas Conservation programme aimed at the general education programme to all Additional funding Society ‘Cool Seas’ public and schools. Curriculum schools by 2015. to be sought from 2010-2015 education lessons are currently set up for the MSF. programme to all English and Welsh curriculum and Use the Cool Seas and/or Sea schools, adapting to this should be expanded to the and Learn at no less than 3 fit with Scottish Scottish system and if possible tied in schools a year over the plan education system. with the existing Sea and Learn period. educational pack which was launched in August 2007 as part of the Curriculum for Excellence. MC5: Coastal Expand the ‘Adopt- Expand the Adopt-a-Beach scheme Extend coverage of beach A&BC GRAB Trust LBO, A&BC, litter a-Beach’ scheme. in conjunction with the GRAB Trust, adoption at least 10% above and GRAB Trust and management the Firth of Clyde Forum and local 2010 levels. Schools, schools. schools to undertake beach litter Helensburgh Additional funding 2010-2015 picks and raise awareness of the East to be sought from impacts of waste on marine wildlife. Esplanade MSF Protection Group

MC6: Coastal Promote agri- Encourage uptake of agri- Prioritise machair and coastal SEARS SNH, SAC, Scottish farmland environment environment schemes aimed at BAP species within the Rural agencies RPID, Government enhancement schemes aimed at encouraging low-intensity grazing, Development Contracts – involved RSPB, SRDP, Life maintenance and cropping and maintenance of Rural Priorities scheme in BBCT, H Ltd Project 2010-2015 enhancing important wetlands to encourage breeding particularly where they are SRDP and BL coastal habitats, waders, and to enhance machair and also protected under EU and Delivery. including machair, its associated species. Domestic legislation. through provision of specialist advice and Information will be made available online information. through specialist advice and available online. This project will benefit a wide variety of species.

31 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Res- Resources in reference, outcomes partner ources place: finance title and in duration place: people MC7: More recording of Raise awareness amongst Increase survey coverage of appropriate Species BBCT, BBCT, Monitor important bee species surveyors/recorders of bee habitat in Argyll Action Hltd, Scottish important bee sightings including the need to record important bee Framework SNH, Government populations Great Yellow species (namely Great Yellow Increase enquiries and take up of Great RSPB, SRDP. and maintain Bumblebee and Bumblebee and Colletes) important bee species advice Yellow RPID, their habitat Colletes species. particularly on coastal grassland Bumblebee A&BC in favourable Specialist advice habitats such as machair. Maintain take up of financial incentives for Partnership condition readily available on managing land for important bee species. appropriate habitat Provide more land users, public 2010-2015 management and with more links to online prioritise financial information about the species incentives for the and their habitat needs plus maintenance and expert advisors. enhancement of habitats for important Prioritise important bee species bee species within theRural Development Contracts – Rural Priorities scheme in Argyll particularly where they are associated with important habitats.

MC8: Chough Improved Ongoing monitoring, colour Complete annual monitoring of breeding SCSG, SNH, SRSG, SNH, monitoring understanding of ringing and research of chough chough. SNH, RPID RSPB, Scottish and species distribution population on Islay by Scottish RSPB and Government conservation and population Chough Study Group. Continue to prioritise chough within RSPB SRDP trends. SRDP schemes. 2010-2015 Rural Development Contracts – Rural Priorities scheme and SNH Natural Care programme to provide incentives for appropriate land management for chough.

32 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources reference, outcomes partner in place: in place: title and people finance duration MC9: Breeding Ongoing annual Ongoing monitoring and research of Arctic Carry out a breeding skua ABC, RSPB, ABC ABC Arctic skua monitoring and skua populations on Coll and Jura. The survey on Jura and Coll twice RSPB SNH monitoring research of Arctic Arctic skua reaches its southernmost within the 2010 to 2015 skua population on breeding locations in Argyll, and the very lifespan of the plan. 2010-2015 Coll and Jura. limited data indicate a substantial decline in recent years. Argyll Bird Reports indicate that there has been very little effort put into counting breeding numbers at the two colonies. The objective of this project is to gather data on current breeding numbers of Arctic skuas by counting birds during the breeding period (late May-June). MC10: Seabird Continue annual Ongoing ringing of seabirds and seabird Complete annual ringing at TIARG, TIARG, CRG, TIARG, ABC ringing and ringing of auks and census conducted annually. these colonies. ABC census at other seabirds, Treshnish Isles including small andonSanda numbers of storm petrels. 2010-2015

MC11#: Mink Increased breeding Implementing targeted control of mink Continue annual control SAMS SNH, RSPB, SNH, ABC control to success at seabird which would otherwise prey on nesting programme on at least one SNHG protect colonies. seabirds. site. seabirds

2010-2015

33 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources reference, outcomes partner in place: in place: title and people finance duration MC12#: White- Improved Ongoing monitoring of breeding white- Complete annual monitoring of SNH RSPB, SNH, tailed eagle understanding of tailed eagle population in Argyll. breeding eagles, focussing on RSPB, WAFD, RSPB, monitoring species distribution locating new territories, following FCS, ARSG, ARSG, and population trends. Continued development of eagle up any reported sightings during NFU, ABC, WAFD Mull 2010-2015 viewing opportunities in areas where the breeding season, and birds in Community Mull and and Iona Public support for eagles are concentrated such as Mull winter that may be prospecting for Trusts Iona Community white-tailed eagle partnership viewing hide with guided nest sites. Community Trust, conservation. walk programmes. Trust, farmers and Continue to raise public farmers and landowners. SNH asked to take forward a positive awareness through provision of landowners. management scheme for farmers viewing sites, events and guided managing land within vicinity of walks. breeding white-tailed eagles. SNH asked to take forward a positive management scheme for farmers managing land within vicinity of breeding white-tailed eagles. MC13: Bend- Improved Re-survey the historic sites on Mull to Re-survey historic site to confirm BAS BL BAS, BL bearing blunt- understanding of the confirm continued presence. Identify continued presence. bow spider distribution, habitat potential new sites on Mull and survey survey needs and population these. Review site protection and Identify other potential sites on trend of this dune- ensure sites are afforded protection Mull and survey these. 2010-2015 inhabiting money where appropriate. spider, enabling Review site protection and ensure targeting of resources sites are afforded protection to help its protection. where appropriate.

MC14#: Increased awareness Increasing awareness of the legal Publicise through on-line material, SNH, SNH, SNH, TCE Protection of about the legal protection given to native oysters. presence at events, and through Police SAMS, native oysters protection given to this supportive business outlets, the MCS, TCE species, to assist the legal protection given to native 2010-2015 police in preventing oysters. unlawful harvesting.

34 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources in Resources reference, outcomes partner place: people in place: title and finance duration MC15: Beach Develop at least 2 Survey and record plan communities Publicise this through online A&BC SNH A&BC management management plans and monitor changes for the life time material and formal notices and plans representing Coastal of this project. GRAB Vegetated Shingle and 2011-2015 Sublittoral Sands and Liaise with local community groups Gravels Work Programme: Potential Projects

Project ref. no. and title Key outputs and outcomes MC16: Tern Raft The ABC is already supporting tern rafts at South Shian that are being monitored by Clive Craik at SAMS. Work is also done by breeding programme RSPB protecting and monitoring known little tern breeding sites on Tiree including predator control, signage in the breeding season to reduce disturbance, and raising public awareness. There is however, interest from the ABC in expanding tern conservation work further, and therefore this project is to identify suitable water bodies for raft deployment, monitor all known breeding sites biannually and monitor all water bodies with rafts annually. MC17: Firth of Clyde sea Assessment of the behaviour, survival and productivity of sea trout in collaboration with the Ayrshire, Clyde and Lomond, and Argyll trout project Fisheries Trusts MC18: Salmon and sea Expand the monitoring of migration beyond Lochaber and Loch Linnhe, in order to determine and better understand these migration trout smolt migration movements. MC19. Raise awareness Increased awareness of Priority Marine Features using file shell beds since this is a little known very photogenic habitat and there are of Priority Marine 2 good examples in Argyll and Bute. Increase awareness of the special marine habitats and species of Scotland particularly those Features - File Shell important to Argyll and Bute. Publicise through online and printed material such as leaflets and posters Beds

35 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 8.3 Lowland and Farmland Work Programme.

Lowland farmland in Argyll is strongly influenced by geography, climate and sparsely distributed fertile soils. As a result this habitat is closely linked with other ecosystems in the Plan. Lowland farmland is typically based around river basins in the bottom of glens, loch shorelines and coastal shell sand influenced grassy plains. The ecosystem is widespread in the more fertile and intensively managed agricultural areas in the south west of the region such as Kintyre, South Cowal and Bute, although many Argyll islands support this ecosystem over much of their land. These areas include Islay, Tiree, Coll, Iona, Colonsay, Gigha, Luing and Lismore. Most areas still support healthy cattle numbers which necessitates silage cropping on ‘in-bye’ fields, although occasionally hay, oats and barley are still grown. Typically, late springs mean silage is cut late which favours ground nesting birds such as waders in spring and corncrake in late summer. Meanwhile in-bye cropping displaces cattle on to wetlands and rougher pasture which maintains their botanical diversity for marsh fritillary, burnet moth and Greenland white-fronted geese. Cattle grazed coastal grasslands support internationally important populations of chough, white-fronted and barnacle geese on Islay and Colonsay whilst maintaining flower rich summer pastures. These are one of the reasons why the Argyll islands are a stronghold for the UK’s native bee populations. Initiatives designed to support low intensity cattle based systems are therefore critical in this Plan (both market led and via European funded environmental support schemes).

Factors limiting biodiversity of lowland and farmland ecosystems:

Intensification of non-arable grassland management through ploughing, re-seeding and spreading fertiliser. Drainage of wet grasslands and other habitats. Grazing regimes inappropriate for the species dependent on grazed habitat. Amalgamation of farming units leading to reduced diversity of management. Earlier cutting of grass for silage rather than hay, partly due to wetter summers. Increased predation on improved farmland. Lack of rush management. Lack of targeted management of native woodland remnants on farmland, including inappropriate or lack of new woodland planting. Lack of hedgerow management or frequent and intensive hedgerow cutting. Decline in cereal cropping, reducing stubble cover and farmland bird food availability over winter. Bracken encroachment.

The table below lists the priority habitats and species typical of the Lowland and Farmland Ecosystem. Next are details of the work programme projects being delivered during the 2010-2015 Plan. Further priority projects to take forward as and when resources become available are listed at the end. The Lowland and Farmland Ecosystem Work Programme will be revised annually.

36 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Habitats Species Common name Scientific name Common name Scientific name Lowland meadows Cladonia peziziformis Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Upland hay meadows Irish lady’s-tresses Spiranthes romanzoffiana Common cuckoo Cuculus canorus Lowland calcareous grass- Great yellow bumblebee Bombus distinguendus Skylark Alauda arvensis land Lowland dry acid grassland Forester Adscita statices Twite Carduelis flavirostris Lowland heathland Narrow-bordered bee hawk-moth Hemaris tityus Soprano pipistrelle bat Pipistrellus pygmaeus Purple moor grass and rush Periclepsis cinctana Barnacle goose Branta leucopsis pastures Waxcap grassland Transparent burnet moth Zygaena purpuralis caledonensis Greenland white-fronted Anser albifrons goose Argent & sable Rheumaptera hastate Corncrake Crex crex Slender scotch burnet moth Zygaena loti scotica Golden plover Pluvialis apricaria Marsh fritillary Euphydryas aurinia Redshank Tringa totanus Chequered skipper Carterocephalus palaemon Tree sparrow Passer montanus Adder Vipera berus Brown long-eared bat Plecotus auritus Daubenton’s bat Myotis daubentonii Noctule bat Nyctalus noctula

37 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Work Programme # denotes a project starting or completing outside this five year programme Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead partner Resources in Resources in place: outcomes place: people finance LF1#: Species rich Encourage species- Species-rich Promote positive SEARS agencies BBCT, RSPB, SAC, SG, SRDP, A&BC, grassland habitat rich grassland grasslands are management of involved in delivery landowners and BBCT, landowners management habitat management important for many species rich of SRDP schemes managers and managers through improved species of grasslands through 2010-2015 provision of expert invertebrates. The SRDP schemes, advice, including habitat comprises a aiming to secure online materials and wide spectrum of enhancement of seminars. grassland over 50ha by 2015. composition ranging Improved habitat from enclosed . management arable meadows to through SRDP. calcareous permanent and well grazed pastures (e.g. machair and limestone areas).

This project will encourage the improved management of existing sites through SRDP schemes.

38 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead partner Resources in Resources in place: outcomes place: people finance

LF2: Habitat Raise awareness of The great yellow Provide a minimum of Great Yellow Great Yellow Great Yellow management for bee species bumblebee and 1 workshop a year in Bumblebee Species Bumblebee Species Bumblebee Species bee species benefiting from northern colletes are Argyll to raise Action Framework Action Framework Action Framework agricultural habitat heavily dependent on awareness of bee Partnership Partnership, SAC, Partnership, SG, 2010-2011 management agoodsupplyof species, and landowners and SRDP schemes through production pollen and nectar management to managers (including Rural of management resources throughout benefit priority Priorities, Land advice leaflets and the season and need species. Management on-line resources. grasslands that are Contracts and managed with this in Disseminate materials Leader), RPS mind. via the internet that give advice on habitat management for the different bee species.

If resources allow, identify a minimum of 1 demonstration site during the period of this plan to show the results of positive management for pollen and nectar rich habitat.

39 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources in outcomes partner in place: place: finance people

LF3; Hebridean Run a series of training The Hebridean Islands support Complete a rolling BBCT SNH, BBCT, SNH, bumblebee events for consultants, important populations of rare programme of surveys of A&BC, A&BC, survey rangers and volunteers. bumblebees, including an existing and potential sites RSPB, H landowners and endemic subspecies of moss for these species. Ltd, BTCV, managers, Great 2010-2015 Survey all potentially carder bee. There are also landowners Yellow suitable areas for populations of red-shanked Transfer the results of this and Bumblebee SAF important island carder bee and great yellow survey onto the NBN. managers Project bumblebee species. bumblebee. Great yellow bumblebee surveys will be Use the survey results to undertaken as part of the improve the management of Species Action Framework the species contracted under (SAF), and surveys for other SRDP schemes. bees will be undertaken to provide a parallel index. Assess development Surveys will also be proposals to check for undertaken to confirm the potential impacts on flower- continued presence of red- rich habitats. shanked carder bee on Iona and to determine whether it has expanded its range to suitable areas of habitat on Mull. Training events will be organised for consultants, rangers and volunteers on carrying out surveys for these species.

40 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources in Resources in outcomes partner place: people place: finance

LF4#: Butterfly Monitor core sites for The marsh fritillary is a butterfly Completearolling BC SNH, RSPB, WAFD BC, SNH, monitoring marsh fritillary and that lives on unimproved, damp, programme of surveys of landowners and WAFD, chequered skipper and lightly grazed, species-rich, acid existing and potential sites managers landowners 2010-2015 provide ongoing or neutral grassland, coastal for these species. (particularly those and monitoring of the marsh heath, or occasionally woodland contracted to managers, fritillary populations clearings. The chequered Transfer the results of this manage land for SG, SRDP skipper is another butterfly and survey onto the NBN. marsh fritillary under Schemes relies upon purple moor grass Rural Development and generally lives at damp Use the survey results to Contracts – Rural woodland edges. improve the management Priorities Scheme) of the species contracted This project consists of a under SRDP schemes. programme of surveys by volunteers and landowners/ managers to survey all colonies (including those with no post- 1995 records) and potential sites, as well as ongoing permanent monitoring at three known populations of each species.

LF5#: Butterfly Provision of management Management advice will be Provide a minimum of 1 BC and SNH, RSPB, SAC, BC, SNH, and moth advicetolandownersand provided to landowners and workshopayearinArgyll BSG landowners and landowners management managers of core marsh managers through leaflets and to raise awareness of managers and managers advice fritillary, chequered seminars. This information will butterfly and moth skipper, argent and sable continue to be distributed as species, and management 2010-2015 and narrow-bordered bee leaflets and will be made easily to benefit priority species. hawkmoth sites through available online through the leaflets and online A&BC Biodiversity web site. Promote materials via the resources. internet that give advice on habitat management for the different butterfly and moth species.

41 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources in outcomes partner in place: place: people finance LF6#: Corncrake Provision of management Management advice will be Maintain stable population at SNH and SEAR’s SG, SRDP, management advice to landowners and provided to landowners and or above 2010 levels, and RSPB agencies, landowners managers through talks, managers on best practice to aim to spread range on Islay, RSPB, SAC, and managers 2010-2015 leaflets and online encourage corncrake breeding if resources allow. landowners resources. success. and managers Annual breeding census by Financial support will be RSPB. provided to farmers for corncrake-friendly farming practices through appropriate schemes.

Annual breeding season survey across core range.

LF7: Burnet and Improved understanding of Promote awareness of the Survey known sites for all BSG, BC, SEAR’s BSG, BC, SG, forester moth the population distribution importance of moths for species every three years. agencies, SRDP, project and trends of these biodiversity using these landowners landowners species, enabling targeted species, whilst promoting their Continue to monitor core and and managers 2010-2015 habitat enhancement. own conservation. sites. managers

Make existing management advice easily available online.

Promote positive habitat management for the species through SRDP schemes.

LF8: Lepidoptera Promote the appreciation Increase survey skills and Run one training course a LBO, BC, BTCV, SNH, LBO, BC, training and of these species and encourage more volunteer year to introduce people to BSG. SAC BSG and SNH awareness project involvement in their participation in surveys and Lepidoptera and increase recording and monitoring. identification skills. 2010-2012 conservation. Make BC A&B leaflets available.

42 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and outcomes Project description Target Lead Resources Resources partner in place: in place: people finance

LF9: Periclepsis Improved understanding of Ensure there is sufficient Survey known sites every BSG and SNH, BC, LBO, cinctana moth the population distribution information on the distribution three years. BC. landowners SNH, project and trends of this species, of this species to ensure sites and landowners enabling targeted habitat are appropriately protected. Provide management advice managers and 2010-2015 enhancement. to landowners and managers managers in leaflets and online.

Ensure sites appropriately protected.

LF10: Native farm Increased area of Encourage improved Make information regarding FCS SEAR’s SG, SRDP, woodlands project sympathetically managed management of existing native importance of retention and agencies, LBO, A&BC, woodland on farmland, woodland and additional planting of native woodland SNW, SAC, landowners 2010-2015 particularly contributing to appropriate planting of new available online – focusing on landowners and habitat networks. native woodland on farmland biodiversity benefits, such as and managers through appropriate grant those for epiphytic lichens, managers schemes. bryophytes, woodland birds and woodland edge specialists (e.g. chequered skipper, black grouse).

Promote information available online regarding appropriate funding schemes supporting such action.

43 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Work Programme: Potential Projects Project title Key outputs and outcomes LF11: Identification Building on the national waxcap grassland survey, this project will train local volunteers to identify and monitor important waxcap and survey of grassland sites. The aims is to ensure landowners and managers are aware of the location of important waxcap grassland on their ground waxcap grassland and manage to protect it. LF12: Provision of Production and dissemination of clear management advice to help land managers maintain the rich diversity of waxcap grasslands. management advice for waxcap grassland

44 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 8.4 Woodland Work Programme

Argyll and Bute’s forests are rich in wildlife and play a vital role in conserving threatened plants, animals and fungi. Of particular importance are the 37,500ha of ancient woodland, including 27,000ha which are considered to be semi-natural in origin. These woods hold one of the most diverse ranges of moss, liverwort and lichen communities in the world, as well as red squirrel, otter, black grouse, hazel glove fungus and the pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly, and many other important protected and LBAP priority species. The importance of the forests in the Council area is recognised in the large proportion of national and international designations they hold: 42 of the 109 Sites of Special Scientific Interest in the area are designated, at least in part, for their woodland (35 for their Atlantic oak woods).

In the past, commercial forest expansion has damaged wildlife interests by encroaching on important habitats, particularly ancient woodland, blanket bog and the edges of water bodies and rivers. Over the lifetime of this Plan, one of the most significant opportunities for biodiversity enhancement will arise as a result of widespread harvesting of many of these commercial timber forests. This means there will be many opportunities for the expansion of native woodland and the creation of other habitat features alongside and integrated with new commercial forest plantations. Throughout all areas across Argyll and parts of Bute, this provides real opportunities to increase woodland habitat networks, to help both plants and animals adapt to climate change and also to help reverse the pattern of habitat fragmentation that has taken place over many centuries.

Factors limiting the biodiversity of forest and woodland ecosystems:

Limited extent and fragmented nature of native woodland habitat. Lack of structural diversity and deadwood. Limited natural regeneration of some woodlands. Limited or inappropriate management of woodland, including woodland grazing. Spread of invasive species, particularly Rhododendron, which forms dense thickets that out compete native shrubs and ground flora and casts a dense shade, beneath which lichens and bryophytes are unable to persist. Inappropriate woodland management, e.g. coppicing Atlantic oakwood and hazelwood. Climate change.

The table below lists priority habitats and species typical of the Woodland Ecosystem. Next are details of the work programme projects being delivered during the 2010-2015 Plan. Further priority projects listed at the end will be taken forward as and when resources become available. The Woodland Ecosystem Work Programme will be revised annually.

45 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Habitats Species

Common name Scientific name Common name Scientific name Upland oak woodland and Arthonia cohabitans Adder Vipera berus Atlantic hazelwoods Upland mixed ash woods Arthonia thelotrematis Black grouse Tetrao tetrix Wet woodlands Hazel gloves Hypocreopsis rhododendri Common cuckoo Caprimulgus europaeus Lowland mixed deciduous Gilded brittlegill Russula aurea Wood warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix woodlands Wood-pasture and parkland Opegrapha brevis Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus

Native pinewood Opegrapha pulvinata Spotted flycatcher Muscicapa striata Arthonia atlantica Red squirrel Sciurus vulgaris Graphis alboscripta Wildcat Felix sylvestris grampia Lecanora cinereofusca Soprano pipistrelle bat Pipistrellus pygmaeus Pyrenula hibernica Brown long-eared bat Plecotus auritus Cladonia norvegica Daubenton’s bat Myotis daubentonii Juniper Juniperus communis Noctule bat Nyctalus noctula Southern yellow splinter Lipsothrix nervosa Pied flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca Mountain bladder-fern Cystopteris montana Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus Narrow-bordered bee hawk- Hemaris tityus Pearl-bordered fritillary Boloria euphrosyne moth Argent and Sable Rheumaptera hastate Chequered skipper Carterocephalus palaemon

46 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Work Programme # denotes a project starting or completing outside this five year programme Project Title Key Outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources in Resources Outcomes Partner place: People in place: Finance W1: Native Expand the area Through re-structuring and re- Expand the native woodland cover from FCS Landowners FCS, SRDP woodland of native stocking of existing forests, and just over 5,000ha (8% of forest cover) to and expansion woodland. through native woodland significantly over 9,000ha, with particular managers, planting, extend the area of emphasis on enhancing forest habitat forest agents, 2010-2015 native woodland Argyll and Bute. networks, including riparian corridors. SAC

W2: Control of To have a WAFD and C&TFD has a rolling Produce a plan for prioritised invasive WAFD WAFD, WAFD, invasive species strategically programme of harvesting and exotic species by 2011 and implement as C&TFD C&TFD C&TFD, on Forestry assessed, planed replanting, which is implemented resources permit, in association with FCS, SNH, Commission and scheduled through its Forest Design Plan other partners. SG, Scotland estate programme of process. As a routine part of Landowners managing felling and replanting operations, Collate information currently collected 2010-2014 invasive species, areas of rhododendron are through felling operations to feed into this giving particular identified and mapped at the plan. (note that this priority over the coupe level. project also LBAP period to As resources allow, map and control strongly links control of Within WAFD, this information is areas of rhododendron as part of on- with FW4 in the Rhododendron in not collated at present and going forest management operations Freshwater and areas where it control is related primarily to the Wetlands Work threatens the District’s felling programme. Increase the targeting of rhododendron Programme) conservation control to areas where it helps to avoid or status of C&TFDhavecompiledareduce threats to the conservation status designated sites. rhododendron management of designated sites, especially in areas of strategy and have moved into its high oceanic bryophyte and lichen implementation phase. diversity.

The project aims to put control on a more strategic footing, so that resources can be directed to the areas where control is most beneficial to biodiversity.

47 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Title Key outputs Project Description Target Lead Resources Resources and outcomes Partner in place: in place: People Finance

W3: Argyll and Prioritise and Continued development of a To encourage rhododendron control to point FCS, SNH, SEARS Loch Lomond foster control of rhododendron control strategy for the of eradication from the site where possible SRDP LL&TNP, and Trossachs rhododendron region, prioritising and assisting in sites across Argyll and Bute prioritised land- National Park within key sites rhododendron control planning on according to, but not exclusively, the owners and Rhododendron throughout sites through one-to-one advice, following criteria:- land Control Argyll and Bute preparation of generic guidance and - Designated sites SSSIs/SAC/SPA/NNR managers, Partnership ensuring funding schemes respond to (including buffer zones) forest the needs of the strategy. - Ancient woodland (including buffer zones) agents, 2010-2015 - Specific sites affected by Phytophthora SAC spp. - Previous/active control work (especially where successful). - Designated landscape (including buffer). W4: Deer Control of deer To manage the deer population in Continue to monitor deer numbers and SNH WAFD, WAFD, management grazing on order to keep numbers and damage in damage levels annually. (Deer C&TFD, C&TFD, sensitive balance with sensitive habitat Comm- land- FCS, land- 2010-2015 habitats, based requirements. Using this information, derive a deer ission) owners and owners and on sound management plan for WAFD and C&TFD. land land knowledge of managers, managers their numbers, For specific sites that are particularly deer distribution and vulnerable, erect deer fencing to protect manage- effects on sensitive habitats, ensuring fences are ment vegetation. marked to avoid bird collision. groups

W5: Native Survey the To improve understanding of To complete the mapping of Argyll and FCS RPS/FCS FCS Woodland location, type, Scotland’s native woodlands, FCS is Bute’s Native Woodlands by 2012. Survey of extent and conducting a major field-based survey Scotland condition of all of this habitat. This is by far the most By 2012, publish and disseminate the native woodland comprehensive ever work of this kind. results, in the form of a Council-wide report, 2010-2012 and Plantation through use of the internet, including on Ancient Results will be used to inform through interactive mapping on the FCS Woodland Sites development of policies and website (see http://www.forestry.gov.uk/ (PAWS). incentives for owners in order to help website/forestry.nsf/byunique/infd-7ybbzy). manage and conserve Scotland’s native woodlands.

48 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Title Key outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes Partner in place: in place: People Finance

W6: Follow- Effective on-going The original project aimed to protect, connect To complete an annual WAFD WAFD, SW, SNW up woodland management of and restore 268ha of ancient woodland sites by inspection of rhododendron SW, SNW management 268ha of native structuring forests, facilitating natural growth. at the woodland, to regeneration, controlling grazing, and planting Dalriada support its native species. After the positive start made To implement any required ancient restoration. since the original project got underway in 2007, rhododendron control necessary woodland this follow-on work is to ensure monitoring and so that it occurs less than 5% project management work continue, to take forward the covernohigherthan1.0m. rhododendron and other woodland management 2010-2015 work completed so far by local people and schools.

W7: Forest Increase the North and West Argyll cluster group have plans The North and West Argyll FCS FCS, FCS, SNH, Education understanding to initiate forest schools in Argyll primary schools. cluster group will roll out an WAFD WTS, BTCV, Initiative among young FEI cluster groups are independent, locally- average of 1 forest schools a CFI, Eco people, of the managed groups providing forest education. year over the lifetime of this Schools, 2010-2012 importance of trees They hold teachers' workshops, produce LBAP, drawing on funding from GLS, TTF, and woodland resources and help schools to organise first-hand Forests for People FCS funds. Lantra, through running a learning experiences for pupils in woodlands and RSFS, LTS programme of in timber-related industries. The Cowal cluster group will run Forest Schools. a pilot John Muir Award with The Cowal/Bute and Helensburgh/Lomond Lochgoilhead primary school at cluster group is aiming to re-establish new Cormonachan wood over the activities. autumn, which if successful will run similar activities with at least 3 other local schools. They are submitting a funding application in January 2011 to run from March2011toMarch2012 W8: Pearl- Undertake butterfly The pearl-bordered fritillary is a UK BAP priority Carry out transect monitoring at BC BC, WAFD, SRDP, FCS, bordered surveys at all species. This project consists of a programme of a minimum of 5 sites a year. landowners A&BC, fritillary historic and surveys by volunteers to locate colonies and land landowners survey potential sites. On- (including those with no post-1995 records) and managers, and going permanent potential sites, as well as on-going permanent volunteer managers 2010-2015 monitoring at 2 monitoring at 2 sites. surveyors core sites.

49 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Title Key outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources in Resources in outcomes Partner place: People place: Finance W9: Pearl- Protection and Habitat management to ensure Carry out forest management in such a BC WAFD, SRDP, FCS, bordered enhancement of priority sites are protected and way that sites for pearl-bordered fritillary C&TFD, A&BC, fritillary priority sites for enhanced. are recorded and protected. SEARS landowners enhanced this species. agencies and management Management advice is provided to Ensure management advice is available involved in managers and Ensuring landowners through leaflets and at least through web-based material, and delivery of management information on this seminars, encouraging wayleave a dedicated leaflet where possible. SRDP advice species’ management. This information will schemes, distribution and be made available on the A&BC SAC, 2010-2015 requirements is Biodiversity web site. landowners available (through and land leaflets and on managers line) W10: Bat Encourage bats in The installation of approximately Install 200 bat boxes over the lifetime of BCT, WAFD FCS, box project woodland by 200 bat boxes in broad leaved this plan. CBG Landowners, providing bat woodland across Argyll and Bute WAFD 2010-2015 boxes, where a will create roosting opportunities for Monitor use of a subset of boxes, to shortage of roost important bat species. Monitoring ensure they are appropriately located locations may be undertaken by bat group volunteers and maintained. inhibiting bat will inform species abundance and abundance or distribution. species range. W11: Pied Increase the Provision of nest boxes works well Install 200 pied flycatcher and redstart WAFD WAFD, BTO, FCS flycatcher nesting with these species, helping them to woodcrete nest boxes over the lifetime of RSPB, ABC, and redstart opportunities for colonise woods that otherwise have this plan. C&TFD nest box these species. limited nesting opportunities. project Monitor use of a subset of boxes, to ensure they are appropriately located 2010-2015 and maintained.

50 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources Resources Title outcomes Partner in place: in place: People Finance W12: Fungi, Produce Fungi, lichens and bryophytes can This project is delivered through a series of AHAG, Project AHAG, lichen and management be damaged by inappropriate agreed activities as part of the Atlantic BLS, Officer BLS, BBS, bryophyte advice leaflet. woodland management. Increasing Hazelwoods Action Group- Species Action BBS, BMS, PL, management Make this demand for firewood and locally Framework project: BMS, SNH, FCS, advice available online sourced timber may pose a threat. LBO WAFD and distribute to However conservation Activity 1) Promote the importance of 2010-2015 organisations management which does not Atlantic Hazelwood: involved in consider the requirement of these Coordinate publication and distribution of an woodland species can also be harmful. It is Atlantic Hazel Book (text and images provided management. essential that appropriate under a separate contract). Deliver a talk to information is widely distributed Produce display materials (1 poster and 1 organisations amongst conservation groups, banner) and display at a minimum of 4 local involved in private sector and public sector to events and project workshops. woodland help conserve these important Write and deliver 6 illustrated talks to management groups – indeed A&B is one of the community groups and other stakeholders. most important places in the world Local and national press opportunities identified for these wonderful species, thanks and more than 4 press releases provided, under to our unique Atlantic woodlands! A the AHAG banner, over the project period. management advice leaflet will be produced regarding appropriate Activity 2) Inform best practice management woodland management for fungi, Coordinate core AHAG meetings (2 per lichens and bryophytes. This will be annum). distributed and made available Coordinate activities with other key stake- online at the A&BC Biodiversity holders such as SAC, SRDP agents, Argyll and website. A talk will also be the Islands Small Woodland Project, local FCS delivered to organisations and RPID. engaged in the management of Set up and revisit 3 long-term monitoring plots, woodlands. and establish hazel tree coring chronology in association with University of Aberdeen PhD project and local community groups. Monitoring form for each site produced, including variables that reflect aspects of stand structure and diversity. Methodology developed in conjunction with AHAG.

51 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs Project Description Target Lead Resources Resources Title and Partner in place: in place: outcomes People Finance W12: Activity 3) Involve local community contd. This activity will work with: Seil Natural History Group (Seil is an important stronghold for hazel gloves), Argyll Island Woodland Project, Local Scottish Wildlife Trust Group, Argyll Green Woodworkers Association, Plantlife Local Flora Guardians, Kilmartin House Museum, School Children in the Argyll and West Highland region The project will develop an education programme, in conjunction with AHAG. Project outline and materials developed. Six training/participation events delivered in collaboration with above community groups Evaluation of events e.g. participant numbers, demography and feedback. Activity 4) Raise awareness Arrange 3 targeted workshops for agents, landowners and agency staff. The format of these workshops will be developed by the project officer in conjunction with AHAG. W13: Disseminate Deadwood is one of the most important yet Produce an Argyll and Bute specific advice BL, Project LBO, Saproxylic management overlooked habitats for our invertebrates note and make it available on-line. AHA Officer A&BC, habitat advice, and many other groups. Indeed, it is often FCS, SNH manage- amongst removed by people for firewood or just to ment organisations keep woodlands ‘tidy’. Deer and rabbits advice involved in also strip deadwood of bark, causing it to dry woodland out quickly and become uninhabitable. A 2010-2015 management. management advice note will be produced and made available online through the A&BC Biodiversity website, and promoted amongst land managers, encouraging appropriate management of this habitat. 52 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources in Resources Title outcomes Partner place: in place: People Finance

RS1#: Red Encourage 4 red squirrel strongholds are in By the end of 2011, contact will have been FCS WAFD, FCS squirrel appropriate Argyll (Eredine, Inverlieven, made with the main land owners and C&TFD, strongholds management of Kilmichael and Glenbranter). The managers in each of the strongholds, to FCS, land stronghold sites aim is to manage strongholds in highlight the presence of red squirrels. owners and 2010-2015 through leaflets, such a way as to promote red managers, active squirrels but not grey squirrels. As resources allow, management advice will LBO. engagement of This involves consideration of tree be offered to key land owners and managers, landowners and species and canopy cover. aiming at a minimum of 3 a year through to online resources. 2015. Measures will be focussed on the National Forest Estate, where the WAFD and C&TFD staff to record all sightings majority of strongholds are of red squirrels on FCS ground. located. WAFD and C&TFD to incorporate measures Attempts will also be made to to protect and enhance the red squirrel encourage owners and managers stronghold areas that fall within FCS ground. of private land to participate in the schemeandtoenterlongterm forest management plans.

RS2: Cowal 2 major events to The project will raise the public 2 major events to be organised annually by CRSG FCS, CRSG, LBO, Red be organised profile of the red squirrel within WAFD and C&TFD and Cowal Red Squirrel C&TFD, CRSG Squirrel annually by FCS A&B and generate local interest in Group (National Red Squirrel Week plus WAFD Group and Cowal Red conservation activities. The issues biodiversity day) and 2 talks a year to schools awareness Squirrel Group associated with transmission of by WAFD and C&TFD Rangers. raising (National Red squirrel pox to the red squirrel Squirrel Week populations will be highlighted as 2010-2015 plus biodiversity part of this work. day) and 2 talks a year to schools by FCS Rangers.

53 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources in Resources Title outcomes Partner place: in place: People Finance RS3#: Cowal Survey priority A priority woodland for red squirrel Survey priority woodland at Cowal to CRSG FCS, CRSG, CRSG red woodland in conservation is located at Cowal. The confirm red squirrel presence and C&TFD, squirrel Cowal to confirm population size and distribution of red estimate distribution and abundance. survey red squirrel squirrels in this area is to be presence and determined using sighting transects, 2010-2015 estimate hair-tube sampling and cone feeding distribution and transects. abundance. Surveys will be undertaken by volunteers, led buy the Cowal Red Squirrel Group.

RS4#: Cowal Feeder box survey The Cowal peninsula has maintained a Feeder box survey for grey squirrels in CRSG FCS, CRSG, C&TFD buffer zone for grey squirrels strong population of red squirrels due the woods by Ardgarten aimed at C&TFD, management in the woods by its relative geographic isolation. monitoring movement into Cowal. WAFD Ardgarten aimed Currently, grey squirrels use the 2010-2015 at monitoring forestry areas present from the head of 2 walking transects will be conducted movement into Loch Long to Glen Coe to migrate onto each year at Arrochar/Succoth and Cowal. the peninsula. Tarbet Station/Tarbet Isle.

2walking This project will use squirrel feeder transects will be boxes to monitor the movement of grey conducted each squirrels within this buffer zone. Where year at Arrochar/ greys have been identified, live traps Succoth and will be employed to remove them from Tarbet the buffer zone. Station/Tarbet Isle. Walking surveys will be undertaken twice a year at Arrochar/Succoth and Tarbet Station/ Tarbet Isle.

54 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources in Resources Title outcomes Partner place: in place: People Finance

RS5#: Advise on any CRSG are currently providing advice Record inputs where advice has been CRSG CRSG, LBO, CRSG Provision of planning to the planning department of the provided in response to planning A&BC planning applications that Council to ensure that any projects applications. advice in affect woodlands that affect woodlands with red relation to with red squirrels squirrels are subject to appropriate Follow-up a minimum of 3 cases a year red squirrels present. scrutiny and mitigation measures. to check if consent conditions have been complied with. 2010-2015

RS6#: Pine cone Extension of the current pine cone Carry out pine cone surveys in 4 CRSG CRSG, land CRSG, Extension of transects to how survey. Pine cone transects will be previously un-surveyed woods each owners and Developers cone many red squirrels conducted in previously un-surveyed year. managers, surveys un-surveyed woodlands to establish how many red volunteers, woodland could squirrels the woods could support. developers 2010-2015 support. Both staff and volunteers will continue to survey.

B1: Increase A&B is one of the most important Deliver 2 introductory bryophyte training NWDG, NWDG, BLS SNH Bryophyte awareness of the locations in the world for its diversity workshops and 1 more advanced BLS ID training importance, of bryophytes. However, they are an bryophyte ID training course by 2012. exceptional under-recorded and under- 2010-2015 diversity and appreciated group. Therefore, training Provide 1 field day a year, as a refresher beauty of events will be run for both novices and and awareness raising, each year from bryophytes, and for those who wish to further develop 2013 to 2015. increase the their interest. 2 workshops will be run number of people for novices, increasing awareness interested in, and and teaching simple groups and easy able to identify to recognise species. A more and undertake advanced course will also be run, bryophyte taking these skills further for more surveys. experienced bryologists.

55 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project Key outputs and Project Description Target Lead Resources Resources Title outcomes Partner in place: in place: People Finance B2: Ravine Identifying This project will analyse existing Categorise ravines into 1) priority oceanic SNH SNH, SNH Bryophyte internationally bryophyte databases to produce a bryophyte sites where the impact of developers protection important oceanic GIS layer that can be used in the early hydropower development will be high, 2) project bryophyte ravines stages of hydropower planning oceanic ravine sites where the oceanic to inform early applications to identify whether a bryophyte interest is known to be low and 2010-2012 stage planning bryophyte survey is required. not further consideration is required, and 3) adviceonsmall oceanic ravine site where no information scale hydropower exists and survey is required. Incorporate schemes. output into planning databases/GIS. L1: Lichen Deliver two A&B is one of the most important Deliver 2 introductory bryophyte training NWDG NWDG, SNH ID training introductory locations in the world for its diversity workshops and 1 more advanced bryophyte BLS BLS, lichen training of lichens. However, they are an ID training course by 2012. LBO, SNH 2010-2015 workshops. under-recorded group. Therefore, Deliver a more training events will be run for both Provide 1 field day a year, as a refresher advanced lichen novices and those who wish to take and awareness raising, each year from 2013 ID training their interest further still. Two to 2015. course. workshops will be run for novices, increasing awareness and teaching simple groups and easy to recognise species. A more advanced course will also be run, taking these skills further for more experienced lichenologists.

L2: Lichen Conduct A survey will be conducted, building Conduct coordinated surveys to identify core BLS BLS, LBO, SNH assemblage coordinated upon work completed by volunteer lichen sites using indicator species. SNH survey surveys to identify lichenologists on a more casual basis. core lichen sites A more coordinated survey will be Select 3 core sites and undertake more 2010-2015 using indicator undertaken to identify core lichen detailed surveys of assemblages present. species. sites, using indicator species. In Select three core addition, hazel gloves are a good Such species include Leptogium sites and indicator for high quality epiphytic cochleatum, Leptogium hibernicum, Graphis undertake more lichen habitats, and can be easily alboscripta, Lecanora cinereofusca, detailed surveys identified by non-specialists. Core Pyrenula hibernica,andSticta canariensis of assemblages sites will be identified using indicators, (green morph) for woodland assemblages, present. and three selected for more detailed Leptogium saturninum for pasture woodland, surveys of the assemblages present. Toninia sedifolia for terricolous habitats (e.g. Coordinate surveys using a central machair or calcareous grasslands) and organiser. Lobarion spp. on coastal rocks. 56 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Work Programme: Potential Projects Project Title Key outputs and outcomes

W18: Provide woodland Provide owners of woodland or community groups with the Woodland Grazing Toolkit and advice on how to manage woodland in management advice a sustainable way that will promote and conserve biodiversity. Where suitable give advice on grants that are available and how these may be obtained. W19: Maintenance of Provide advice to power companies to manage wayleaves at pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly sites on a more regular basis, wayleaves for pearl- beyond the basic requirement. bordered fritillary butterfly W20: Provide management Post-construction monitoring of changes in the bryophyte communities of a riverine system subject to a hydro scheme advice on bryophytes development. Information on the impacts of a hydro scheme water extraction regime is currently non-existent. Pre-construction communities monitoring of such schemes has taken place but only needs to be repeated and reported. However, this work needs to be prioritised in order that it is completed. The project will help inform developers and consultees on the likely changes of bryophyte communities when altering flow regimes in important ravines and gulleys of Argyll.

57 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 8.5 Upland Work Programme

The uplands cover two thirds of the land surface of Argyll and Bute and are hugely important for biodiversity, encompassing heather moorland, calcareous grassland, blanket bog, rock, scree and upland flushes, fens and swamps. Whilst some upland land-uses (large-scale hydro-electric schemes, field sports and tourism, for example) remain relatively stable, other upland activities are undergoing widespread change, affecting large upland areas of the mainland and islands. This is set to continue or even intensify over the 2010-2015 Plan period. In terms of the area affected, the most notable results from commercial forests reaching harvesting age. The resulting peak in felling and re-planting creates a major opportunity to enhance commercial forests, expand native woodlands, avoid re-planting on blanket bog that can be restored, and better integrate plantations with open upland habitats. Hill farming continues to operate at the margins of economic viability, and it is likely there will be further changes in stock levels in response to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) support and markets. This could have implications for many important species through changes to livestock grazing, and the consequences of this also need to assessed in tandem with grazing by red deer so that these upland habitats are viable for species of conservation concern The generation of renewable energy from windfarms is also set to expand, bringing particular concerns over the effects on peatland habitats and many bird species including golden eagles, divers and upland waders.

Factors limiting the biodiversity of upland ecosystems:

Ongoing desiccation of intact peatlands and heath from peripheral activities and/or drainage. Grazing levels that are unsuited to the conservation of key habitats and species. Disturbance, alteration and/or habitat loss to proposed developments including windfarms and plantation forestry. Encroachment by bracken and Rhododendron ponticum. Nitrogen enrichment from atmospheric pollution. Climate change.

The table below lists priority habitats and species typical of the Upland Ecosystem. Next are details of the work programme projects being delivered during the 2010-2015 Plan. Further priority projects listed at the end will be taken forward as and when resources become available. The Upland Ecosystem Work Programme will be revised annually.

58 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Habitats Species Common name Scientific name Common name Scientific name Upland calcareous grassland Collema fragile Marsh fritillary Euphydryas aurinia Upland heathland Poeltinula cerebrina White-faced darter Leucorrhinia dubia Inland rock outcrop and scree Juniper Juniper communis Brilliant emerald Somatochlora metallica habitats Blanket bog Alpine woodsia Woodisa alpinamontana Azure hawker Aeshna caerulea Upland flushes, fens and Arctic sandwort Arenaria norvegica norvegica Geyer's whorl snail Vertigo geyeri swamps Cyphel Minuartia sedoides Black grouse Tetrao tetrix Downy willow Salix lapponum Black-throated diver Gavia arctica Alpine bartsia Bartsia alpina Red-throated diver Gavia stellata Wrinkle-leaved feather Rhytidium rugosum Peregrine Falco peregrinus moss Moss carder bee Bombus muscorum Hen harrier Circus cyaneus Narrow-bordered bee Hemaris tityus Arctic skua Numenius arquata hawk-moth Forester Adscita statices Common cuckoo Cuculus canorus Argent and sable Rheumaptera hastate Ring ouzel Turdus torquatus Pearl bordered fritillary Boloria euphrosyne Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos Red deer Cervus elaphus Merlin Falco columbarius Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Short-eared owl Asio flammeus Twite Carduelis flavirostris

59 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Work Programme # denotes a project starting or completing outside this five year programme Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources in Resources outcomes partner place: people in place: finance U1#: Scottish Collate and provide The focus of the scheme is annual Maintain annual figures for ARSG, ARSG, BTO, SRSG, raptor monitoring data on breeding monitoring of raptors across number of nests monitored for SRSG ABC, C&TFD, SNH, scheme birds of prey in Scotland to record data on each raptor species, recording WAFD and Argyll and Bute, abundance, distribution and productivity. RSPB 2010-2015 including detection breeding success of diurnal birds of long term trends. of prey and owls native to From the new National Breeding Scotland. This is to determine Bird Atlas, and Argyll Bird Club trends in numbers, range, survival datasets, produce a summary and productivity, and to understand report on the status and the causes of population changes. distribution of raptors in Argyll This information can be used to and Bute. identify threats and inform conservation work.

Argyll is a stronghold for raptors, but certain species, notably golden eagle and peregrine, still face constraints on their range and breeding success.

U2: Geyer’s whorl Improved Ensure improved understanding, Identify other potential sites on BL CS, BL CS, BL snail conservation understanding of greater awareness and the Islay and survey. project distribution and conservation of this species. population trends. Carry out monitoring of colonies. 2010-2015 Provision of management advice on-line.

Review site protection and ensure sites are afforded protection where appropriate.

60 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance

BG1#: Black grouse Through the employment of Continuation of the annual Hold annual meetings to co- RSPB RSPB, RSPB, FCS, co-ordinated annual a Black Grouse Project programme of black grouse lek ordinate survey areas in WAFD, WAFD, lek counts Officer, ensure improved surveys, checking known and A&B, co-ordinating with the C&TFD, C&TFD, understanding of species suspected leks and surveying Loch Lomond and Trossachs SNH, FCS, SNH 2010-2015 distribution and population, suitable habitat not previously National Park. CSBG&CS to enable prioritisation of surveyed. G, Scottish conservation efforts. Implement a 5 year rolling Power, Updated information on programme of lek searches Council distribution used to inform and surveys to cover entire staff, development and forestry A&B. landowners proposals or RDC applications. and land Undertake annual surveys of managers, at least 15 sites a year. and volunteers Collate results and produce summary report.

BG2#: Habitat Through the employment of Management plans have been Implement actions from the RSPB FCS, RSPB, SG SRDP enhancement for a Black Grouse Project produced for at least 9 key lek management plans SNH, schemes, black grouse Officer, promote habitat areas of largely private land produced through the Argyll Scottish FCS, enhancement for black and 6 management Black Grouse Project, Power and Scottish 2010-2015 grouse. programmes for areas of FCS including within relevant C&TFD, Power land with active black grouse Forest Design Plans and WAFD leks. This project will promote Long Term Forest Plans. the implementation of the management Develop management recommendations in these recommendations for other plans. key lek sites that are identified.

Aim to stabilise and then reverse declines in leks.

61 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance BG3#: Black Through the Many of the known leks occur on Hold 2 workshops a year for RSPB RSPB, SNH, RSPB, SNH, grouse employment of a Black privately-owned land where the owners landowners and managers. FCS, SAC SG SRDP advisory work Grouse Project Officer, don’t have easy access to detailed schemes increase awareness of advice or funding sources to undertake Provide advice on potential 2010-2015 land managers so they additional management for black grouse. SRDP applications. can implement measures to improve This project provided 2 workshops for Ensure Rural Priorities habitats for black landowners to provide advice on contracts are prioritised grouse. practical measures. Further detailed according to black grouse lek advice will also be provided in individual survey findings and that surgeries to look at particular land- proposed management holdings and the eligible options for meets all recommendations SRDP applications. provided in lek management plans. BG4#: Collate Map the locations of all As well as results from the co-ordinated Ensure all data are compiled CSBG& CSBG&CSG, CSBG&CSG all available known leks and collate lek counts from BG1, a range of other annually and are up-loaded CSG RSPB, dataonblack this with all other information is generated each year from to the NBN. FCS, SNH grouse records of black grouse casual observations (by keepers, distribution sightings. stalkers, farmers, and bird watchers), wind farm and other development 2010-2015 related monitoring. Systematic collation of this information is invaluable to help develop a more comprehensive picture of black grouse population and distribution. Through its network of contacts and volunteers, the CSBG&CSG is in a key position to achieve this. The aim is to ensure these data are made available, at the appropriate scale, through the NBN. BG5#: Black Information from which The range occupied by black grouse has Analyse all available data on RSPB CSBG&CSG, CSBG&CSG grouse range to prioritise contracted in some areas, such as black grouse distribution and RSPB, FCS, assessment conservation work to Cowal, leaving remaining populations at habitat suitability to annually SNH and evaluation benefit back grouse. risk of isolation. This project will assess assess priorities for habitat the black grouse distribution information enhancement and survey. 2010-2015 each year, reporting to key stakeholders, and help to evaluate priorities for further Produce an annual report habitat enhancement and survey. detailing these results.

62 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Work Programme: Potential Projects Project title Key outputs and outcomes U3: Scottish Conduct a follow up survey on Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust mountain hare populations, study and possibly enhance methodology mountain hare and frequency to every 3-4 years instead of every 11-12 years. survey U4: Peatland Assess the condition of non-designated blanket bogs, as resources allow. Promote management such as drain blocking and modification restoration of grazing regimes where these are having an adverse effect on the peat.

U5: Sub-montane This project will seek to restore pockets of sub-montane scrub by planting dwarf willows and juniper in locations where grazing and scrub restoration browsing pressure is low enough to let them re-establish. Advice on best practice will be obtained from the national montane scrub action group, National Trust for Scotland Ben Lawers and Scottish Agricultural College Kirkton, where pilot projects are already underway.

U6: Golden eagle This project will secure financial contributions from windfarm developers where golden eagle activity has been recorded on site during EIA interactions with surveys. The objective is to ensure that there is sufficient pre and post-construction monitoring to ensure improved understanding of golden windfarms eagle and windfarm interactions.

BG6: Lek site Implement habitat management recommendations in additional lek sites. habitat management

63 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 8.6 Built Environment Work Programme

Built up areas in Argyll and Bute are relatively limited in extent. They are, however, home to the majority of people in the Council area, and where they go to school or to work. For many reasons, it is vital important to make space for vibrant habitats and wildlife within these areas so people have contact with wildlife in their everyday lives. The planning system, and developers themselves, have gradually recognised both the importance of high quality green environments for peoples’ welfare and the role this has attracting business investment. Whilst some progress has been made, there is considerable room for improvement in building design, sustainability, wildlife-friendly construction, master planning, green networks and green transport.

The recession will certainly reduce demand for new construction over the Plan period. This lull in development pressure provides an opportunity to plan future expansion to take into account the principles of sustainability, including the protection and enhancement of wildlife habitats.

The people living and working in the built environment themselves represent a major force for positive change, and are actively promoting many local wildlife and environmental projects. Current community projects range from beach cleaning to woodland management. In addition to benefiting wildlife, these projects, and the ones in this work programme serve to raise awareness and build capacity within communities, generating improved recording and public support. This not only addresses the UKBAP and SBS education aims, but also encourages volunteer involvement in other projects and enjoyment of the area’s wonderful natural environment.

Factors limiting the biodiversity of built environment ecosystems:

Unsympathetic management of green spaces such as uniform mowing regimes. Use of invasive plants and wildlife-unfriendly planting schemes on new developments. Accidental spread of invasive plants through work on transport infrastructure and other projects. Neglect of management obligations on publically owned land and network corridors. Unsympathetic development design with little space for wildlife. Fragmentation of habitat by roads and other development, encroaching on wildlife corridors. Competition with and predation by domestic pets.

The table below lists the priority habitats and species typical of the Built Environment. Next are details of the work programme projects being delivered during the 2010-2015 Plan. Further priority projects to take forward as and when resources become available are listed at the end. The Built Environment Ecosystem Work Programme will be revised annually.

64 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Habitats Species Common name Scientific name Built and developed environment Song thrush Turdus philomelos Greenspace Spotted flycatcher Muscicapa striata Wildlife corridors Soprano pipistrelle bat Pipistrellus pygmaeus Wood-pasture and parkland Swift Apus apus Lowland meadows Red squirrel Sciurus vulgaris Bumblebees Bombus species

# denotes a project starting or completing outside this five year programme Project title Key outputs and outcomes Project description Target Lead Resources Resource partner in place: sinplace: people finance

BE1: Increased awareness of wildlife Gardens have the highest nesting density of Make readily available LBO and SNH, LBO, Gardening gardening and the threats to bumblebees and may be important refuges leaflets promoting A&BC BBCT, A&BC, for wildlife wildlife from invasive non-native for many other animals, from butterflies to useful flowers for BTCV, BL, BBCT, species. birds. The amount of available habitat and private and public RSPB and BTCV, BL, 2010-2015 value of gardens to wildlife can be increased gardens, and leaflets property and Encourage participation in by promoting the useful flowers. Similarly, highlighting invasive owners property BeeWatch and BBCT wider the use of inappropriate invasive plants, plant species to be owners countryside transect surveys such as rhododendron, can have a negative avoided in gardens. through poster and effect on not only the garden, but also the presentation attendance at wider countryside. Identify 3 large public public events and through gardens and manage bumblebee education A leaflet highlighting invasive plants that these for wildlife, programme. This will improve should be avoided will be produced to including public knowledge of the distribution of complement the first leaflet. These leaflets engagement bumblebees in Argyll and Bute will be made available for members of the management events. and encourage public public and landowners. participation in conservation. Encourage A minimum of 3 large gardens (e.g. hospital participation in grounds, urban parks etc.) in towns will be BeeWatch and BBCT identified and managed for bumblebees, wider countryside with help from conservation volunteer transect surveys organisations, encouraging public through attendance at participation through management events events and bumblebee while showcasing wildlife gardening education program. approaches.

65 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Work Programme

Project title Key outputs and outcomes Project description Target Lead Resources Resources partner in place: in place: people finance

BE2: Bumblebee Issue BBCT and RSPB Raise awareness of bumblebees Aim to engage 5 LBO and SNH, LBO, A&BC, education bumblebee education packs to through environmental education. schools a year in A&BC RSPB, BL BL and schools to raise awareness of Encourage use of BBCT and RSPB bumblebee-related and BBCT BBCT 2010-2011 bumblebees. complementary bumblebee education education activities. packs for Primary 2/3 and Primary 4+ by issuing to all schools.

BE3: Community Increased number of Community led conservation initiatives Create database of A&BC, Community A&BC, woodland groups community groups involved in are essential in the delivery of existing community FCS Groups, Community database and active management of improvements for biodiversity, and woodland projects FCS, Groups, support woodland encourage public participation and throughout Argyll and BTCV, FCS, SNH, ownership. Bute, and update with Community BTCV, 2010-2015 new projects. Councils Community There are a number of existing and Councils and community woodlands projects Provide support landowners landowners throughout Argyll and Bute, through making focusing on conservation, management environmental education, information and capacity building, mental and physical useful contacts health and sustainable development available on A&BC for local businesses. biodiversity website.

A database of these projects will be produced, including the current aims of each project. Support will be provided for these projects through collating available information and helpful contacts on the A&BC biodiversity website. New projects will be encouraged and advice will be given for existing projects.

66 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and outcomes Project description Target Lead Resources Resources partner in place: in place: people finance

BE4#: Kilmahew Develop an environmental This project aims to restore the Enhanced management of KWRCDO/ FCS, KWRCDO/ woodlands and social strategy to woodlands in the former Kilmahew Estate to benefit KWRG KWRG, restoration promote sustainable use of Kilmahew Estate, and promote people and wildlife. FCS, programme the woodland. their sustainable use. This will SRDP benefit local people and 2010-2015 biodiversity and support the economic viability of local businesses and partners. This project is funded through SRDP.

BE5#: The Improved access to, This project aims to restore the Continue to research, FoDW A&BC, FoDW protection and ecological information on, woodland, benefit local people document and publicise the FoDW enhancement of and management of this and biodiversity. The site is the biodiversity interest of the Duchess Wood, woodland. only Local Nature Reserve in Wood, producing a checklist Helensburgh Argyll and Bute, and as such is a of flowering plants in 2011. demonstration of co-operative 2010-2015 working between the Council and Assess the feasibility and a local community. cost of bringing non-native invasive species under control.

BE6: Funding Accessible leaflets and web- Community-led conservation Record the number of grant LBO, Community LBO, advice for based resources highlighting initiatives are essential for applications, monitor SEARS Groups, Community community-led funding streams available to delivering improved biodiversity. success rate of applications, A&BC, Groups, projects different community projects However, finding funding for a and the value for SEARS and A&BC, and advice. project and applying for this can biodiversity that have been BTCV SEARS and 2010-2011 be a daunting task for volunteers facilitated by this BTCV with little time or experience. To mechanism. encourage community-led conservation projects, leaflets and web-based resources will be produced to highlight the funding streams and advice available in an easily accessible format.

67 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance

BE7: Raising Increased Volunteers and community groups have Develop community bat WAFD, Local Bat LBO, A&BC, public awareness awareness and built and installed bat boxes at a number box projects in 3 C&TFD, Groups, Local Bat of bats through bat involvement in bat of locations on buildings and trees in settlements. BCT BCT, Groups, boxes, walks and conservation. green spaces over the years. This project Community WAFD, BCT, talks will develop and implement a programme Deliver programme of Groups, Community of bat box work targeting the built Batwatch events. CBG, Groups, environment and green space as a way of BTCV BTCV engaging local people in nature Deliver programme of conservation work. Typical bat boxes are school and group only useful to the relatively common education events. pipistrelle bats. The project will also look for opportunities for bat boxes to benefit Promote school use of less common species. BCT education pack.

Batwatch evenings will continue to be Run 1 bat promotion day delivered by WAFD, encouraging interest in 2011 on Cowal. in bats. New woodland areas near towns will be identified to expand availability of Batwatch events for communities throughout Argyll and Bute. A programme of school and group events will continue to run each year and education will be promoted using the BCT education pack ‘Explore the World of Bats’. BE 8: Blarbuie Provide access to Since 2002 the Blarbuie Project has Hold a minimum of 3 Blarbuie FCS, FCS, NHS Woodland Project woodlands around worked towards the restoration and special events each year Woodland AGWA Highland, Argyll and Bute enhancement of woodland near the Argyll to promote enjoyment of Enterprise RS, SAMH 2010-2015 Hospital, and Bute Hospital. A grand opening was wildlife. Lochgilphead, held in 2007. Walking routes are currently increasing public being developed in the area. To carry out habitat awareness and management aimed at appreciation of the increasing the structural natural world, and diversity of the woodland. providing exercise and therapeutic environment.

68 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Project title Key outputs and Project description Target Lead Resources Resources outcomes partner in place: in place: people finance BE9#: Open Improved An audit of open spaces around Supplement audit of open A&BC and Local A&BC, space audit understanding of the communities is being undertaken in space with information on Lower Clyde communities Lower Clyde importance of open 2009. This includes assessment of the quality of these sites as bat Greenspace Greenspace 2010-2015 space for bat presence of green corridors and habitat. and local conservation. natural or semi-natural habitats communities amongst other attributes and public consultation to identify areas important to communities. The final audit will meet Scottish Planning Policy 11 standards and will be used to inform the development of the open space strategy for the Local Plan.

BE10: Increased public Organise a large public event Hold 1 major public event to LBO A&BC, SNH, LBO, A&BC, Public engagement and showcasing the biodiversity include activities, stands and FCS, RSPB, SNH, FCS, engagement awareness of wildlife conservation and recording work in talks involving as many BTCV, BTCV, biodiversity conservation. Argyll and Bute. Include activities, conservation organisations Community Community event posters, stands and talks. This will as possible. Groups and Groups and engage members of the public and Wildlife Wildlife 2010-2015 allow them to try out conservation If successful, run similar Interest Interest activities and to meet others who are event annually. Groups Groups interested or already involved. If the first event proves successful, may be run annually.

Work Programme- Potential Projects Project title Key outputs and outcomes BE11: Identify, designate Use the open space audit to identify and assess potential new community wildlife sites and possible LNRs. The ABC is supporting a and manage new LNRs new proposal for an LNR at Broxwood, Sandbank, centred on the new bird hide to which it contributed funding, but the ABC would also be interested in supporting similar proposals elsewhere in Argyll. BE12: Non-native inva- Raise awareness of invasive species within and around built up areas, and encourage support for their treatment and control through sive species action events, leaflets and provision of advice.

69 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft 9. Management of the Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan

Implementation and Oversight of the A&B BAP

Implementation of the LBAP will be achieved through the A&B BAP partners that worked to produce this document. The A&B BAP 2001 partnership will be revised to include all partners who contributed to and will be responsible for the delivery of the A&B BAP 2010. Key partners will further constitute a steering group, known as the A&B BAP Working Group that will oversee the development and progress of the A&B BAP 2010 as a whole. The A&B BAP Working Group will be chaired by the LBO, with a remit for ensuring implementation of the projects and actions contained within this document (see Figure 1).

The A&B BAP Working Group are responsible for the following:

Undertaking further development of the species and ecosystem work programmes. Ensuring progress with all five-year costed programmes. Reporting on the progress of the programmes annually, using BARS. Revising and moving the five-year work programmes forward as appropriate. Review of the progress of this LBAP upon its completion in 2015.

A&B BAP Project Planning

The work programme details will be more fully developed by the A&B BAP Working Group and the relevant partner organisations for each individual project. The targets specified in the LBAP document will be used to measure the achievements of the Plan.

The project planning process will also include the consideration of potential conflicts between different projects, so that specific management plans for habitats or species do not have a negative impact on other species, habitats or designated sites. Priorities will be determined and any relevant measures identified to mitigate any potential effects on other species or habitats. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) or Appropriate Assessments will be undertaken in accordance with statutory requirements or consultation with stakeholders, NGO’s and agencies, where appropriate.

A&B BAP Monitoring

Progress for each programme will be monitored by the A&B BAP Working Group using appropriate management tools. Lead partners will be responsible for reporting progress to the A&B BAP Working Group. All partners will be provided with a bespoke spreadsheet, detailing projects, SMART targets and their involvement (e.g. lead partner or other stakeholder), for which they have responsibility.

Additional informal monitoring of progress will be undertaken by the Biodiversity Forum and LBAP partner organisations.

70 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Figure 1: Monitoring Structure

A&B BAP Reporting An annual progress report will be produced and sent to the Biodiversity Forum. This report will also be made available through on-line publication on the A&BC website. The outcomes will also be reported through the national BARS database by the Biodiversity Officer. This national website enables LBAP partnerships, Lead Partners/Agencies and steering groups involved in implementation of biodiversity action plans to record and monitor progress towards biodiversity delivery. It enables: Improved integration and communication between local and national action plans. Dissemination of good practice across the biodiversity community, through communicating the types of activities underway and by providing an opportunity to learn from the experience of others. LBAP activities to be set in the national context through, for example, viewing contributions to national targets. Forward planning and prioritisation of activities. Users to assess the full range of Biodiversity Action Plan-related activities that are underway in a given area, whether the activity is initiated nationally or locally.

Progress will also be reported annually as part of the Argyll and Bute Council annual report. Figure 2 shows the reporting structure.

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Figure 2: Reporting Structure

Lead Project Partners

A&B BAP Working National Survey & Biodiversity Forum Group Monitoring Schemes

Argyll and Bute National BARS A&B BAP Report 2014 Council Annual Database Report

Review of the Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan 2010 - 2015

The LBAP has been produced as a 5 year business-plan to build upon the progress made by the previous A&B BAP, and to bring forward the delivery of the next stage of actions. The A&B BAP 2010-2015 will be reviewed and updated annually, to ensure projects are undertaken, to help maintain momentum and to adapt as new resources and information become available. In particular, new funding, and/or new project partners will hopefully allow currently unfunded projects to be rolled out, or existing projects expanded, or new complimentary projects to be undertaken. The annual review will also allow for the removal of projects once completed.

In addition to the annual review, the A&B BAP will be subject to a 5 year review on completion. At this stage, the progress made will be fully evaluated and reported. A new A&B BAP will be developed, building upon this progress and the lessons learned during the implementation of this Plan, taking us forward towards the 2030 vision.

72 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

Appendix 1: List of Abbreviations ARC Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust ARG-UK Amphibian and Reptile Groups of the UK A&B BAP Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan A&BAF Argyll and Bute Agricultural Forum A&BC Argyll and Bute Council A&B LBP Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Partnership ABC Argyll Bird Club ADRIA Argyll District River Improvement Associations AFT Argyll Fisheries Trust AGWA Argyll Green Woodworkers Association ARSG Argyll Raptor Study Group BAP Biodiversity Action Plan BARS Biodiversity Action Reporting System BAS British Arachnological Society BBCT Bumblebee Conservation Trust BBS British Bryological Society BC Butterfly Conservation BCT Bat Conservation Trust BHS British Herpetological Society BL Buglife BLS British Lichen Society BMS British Mycological Society BSG Burnet Moth Study Group BRISC British Recording In Scotland BSBI Botanical Society of the British Isles BTCV British Trust for Conservation Volunteers BTO British Trust for Ornithology BW British Waterways BWARS Bees, Wasps and Ants Recording Society CARG Clyde Amphibian and Reptile Study Group CBG Cowal Bat Group CEH Centre for Ecology and Hydrology CFI Confederation of Forest Industries

CO2 Carbon Dioxide CRSG Cowal Red Squirrel Group

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CS Conchological Society CSBG&CSG Central Scotland Black Grouse and Capercaillie Study Group CSFT Central Scotland Forest Trust DNA Deoxyribo Nucleic Acid DRFB District Regional Fishery Boards DSFB District Salmon Fisheries Board EIA Environmental Impact Assessments FCS Forestry Commission Scotland FE Forest Enterprise FSC Field Studies Council FWAG The Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group GLS Grounds for Learning Scotland GRAB Group for Recycling in Argyll and Bute GSWSB Glasgow and South West Scotland Branch of Butterfly Conservation HB Highland Woodlands HLtd Hymettus Ltd HSEP Habitats and Species Enhancement Programme HWDT Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust IHN Integrated Habitat Network INHS Islay Natural History Society ISI Initiative for Scottish Invertebrates JNCC Joint Nature Conservation Committee KWRG Kilmahew Woodland Restoration Group KWRCDO Kilmahew Woodland Restoration Community Development Officer LBAP Local Biodiversity Action Plan LBO Local Biodiversity Officer LIA Local Improvement Adviser LAIA Loch Awe Improvement Association LL&TNP Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park LTS Learning and Teaching Scotland LUC Land Use Consultants MarLIN Marine Life Information Network MCS Marine Conservation Society MICT Mull and Iona Community Trust MPA Marine Protected Areas MSF Marine Stewardship Fund MSS Marine Scotland Science 74 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

NARRS National Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme NBN National Biodiversity Network NERC Natural Environment Research Council NFUS National Farmers Union Scotland NGO Non-government organisations NNSS Non-native Species Secretariat NP BAP National Park Biodiversity Action Plan NWSS Native Woodland Survey of Scotland NWDG Native Woodland Discussion Group PAWS Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites PL Plantlife RAFTS Rivers and Fisheries Trusts of Scotland RBBP Rare Breeding Birds Panel RDC Rural Development Contracts RIA River Improvement Associations RS Reforesting Scotland RSFS Royal Scottish Forestry Society RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds RSVS Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies RZS Royal Zoological Society RZSS Royal Zoological Society of Scotland SAC Scottish Agricultural College. Also Special Area of Conservation (a type of designated site) SAF Species Action Framework SAMS Scottish Association for Marine Science SAMH Scottish Association for Mental Health SBL Scottish Biodiversity List SBS Scottish Biodiversity Strategy SCRA Scottish Countryside Rangers Association SCSG Scottish Chough Study Group SEARS Scotland's Environmental and Rural Services SEERAD Scottish Executive Environmental and Rural Affairs Department SEPA Scottish Environment Protection Agency SFS Scottish Forestry Strategy SG Scottish Government SNH Scottish Natural Heritage SNHG Seil Natural History Group SNW Scottish Native Woods 75 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft

SOC Scottish Ornithologist's Club SPA Special Protection Area SRDP Scottish Rural Development Program SRPBA Scottish Rural Property and Business Association SRSG Scottish Raptor Study Groups SS Sports Scotland SSACN Scottish Sea Angling Conservation Network SSPCA Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest SSTP Scottish Shark Tagging Programme SW Scottish Water SW Ltd Scottish Woodlands Ltd SWA Scottish Wildcat Association SWT Scottish Wildlife Trust TBC To be confirmed TCE The Crown Estate THT The Hebridean Trust TIARG Treshnish Isles Auk Ringing Group THT TheTreeCouncil TTF Timber Trade Federation UK United Kingdom UK BAP United Kingdom Biodiversity Action Plan UMBS University Marine Biology Station UO University of Oxford WAFD West Argyll Forest District WCA Wildcat Association WFD Water framework Directive WTS Woodland Trust Scotland

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Appendix 2: Habitats Selected for Action under the A&B BAP 2010-2015

Table A1.1: Habitats Selected for Action Habitats Meeting Sift Criteria UKBAP SBL

1 Upland oak woodland Y Y 2 Upland mixed ashwoods Y Y 3 Wet woodlands Y Y 4 Lowland mixed deciduous woodland Y Y 5 Wood-pasture and parkland Y Y 6 Native pine woodlands Y Y 7 Lowland meadows Y Y 8 Upland hay meadows Y Y 9 Lowland calcareous grassland Y Y 10 Upland calcareous grassland Y Y 11 Lowland dry acid grassland Y Y 12 Lowland heathland Y Y 13 Upland heathland Y Y 14 Upland flushes, fens and swamps Y Y 15 Inland rock outcrop and scree habitats Y Y 16 Purple moor grass and rush pastures Y Y 17 Reedbeds Y Y 18 Lowland fens Y Y 19 Lowland raised bog Y Y 20 Blanket bog Y Y 21 Mesotrophic lakes Y Y 22 Eutrophic standing waters Y Y 23 Rivers Y Y 24 Oligotrophic and dystrophic lakes Y Y 25 Sub-tidal sands and gravels Y Y 26 Seagrass beds Y Y 27 Blue mussel beds Y Y 28 Coastal sand dunes Y Y 29 Coastal vegetated shingle Y Y

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Habitats Meeting Sift Criteria UKBAP SBL

30 Machair Y Y 31 Maerl beds Y Y 32 Maritime cliffs and slopes Y Y 33 Mud habitats in deep water Y Y 34 Serpulid reefs Y Y 35 Tide-swept channels Y Y

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Appendix 3: Species Selected for Action Under the Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015

Table A3.1: Fungus Species Selected for Action Common Name Scientific Name

1 Arthonia cohabitans* Y Y N 2 Hazel Gloves Hypocreopsis rhododendri Y Y Y 3 Mulberry Brain Tremella moriformis Y N Y 4 Arthonia thelotrematis* N Y Y 5 Cyphelium marcianum* N Y Y 6 Gilded Brittlegill Russula aurea N Y Y 7 Green Hazelcup Encoelia glauca N Y Y 8 Opegrapha brevis* N Y Y 9 Opegrapha pulvinata* N Y Y

* Lichenicolous fungus traditionally studied by lichenologists

Table A3.2: Lichen Species Selected for Action

Species UK BAP SBL SNH Species Action Framework Common Name Scientific Name

1 Arthonia atlantica Y N N 2 Cladonia peziziformis Y Y N 3 Collema fragile Y Y N 4 Graphis alboscripta Y Y N 5 Lecanora cinereofusca Y Y N 6 Poeltinula cerebrina Y Y N 7 Pyrenula hibernica Y Y N 8 Toninia sedifolia Y Y N 9 Arthothelium norvegicum N Y N 10 Cladonia norvegica N Y N 11 Cladonia stereoclada N Y N

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Table A3.3: Plant Species Selected for Action Species UK BAP SBL SNH Species Action Common Name Scientific Name Framework

1 Wig Wrack or Sea-loch Egg Wrack Ascophyllum nodosum ecad mackaii Y N N 2 Killarney Fern Trichomanes speciosum N Y N 3 Purple Milk-vetch Astragalus danicus Y Y N

Table A3.4: Invertebrate Species Selected for Action-

Species UK BAP SBL SNH Species Common Name Scientific Name Action Framework

1 White-faced Darter Leucorrhinia dubia N N N 2 Brilliant Emerald Somatochlora metallica N N N 3 Azure Hawker Aeshna caerulea N N N 4 Southern Yellow Splinter Lipsothrix nervosa Y N N 5 Great Yellow Bumblebee Bombus distinguendus Y Y Y 6 Moss Carder-bee Bombus muscorum Y Y N 7 Red-shanked Carder Bee Bombus ruderarius Y Y N 8 Northern Colletes Colletes floralis Y Y N 9 Forester Adscita statices Y N N 10 Narrow-bordered Bee Hawk-moth Hemaris tityus Y Y N 11 Periclepsis cinctana N Y N 12 Argent & Sable Rheumaptera hastate Y Y N 13 Transparent Burnet Moth Zygaena purpuralis caledonensis N Y N 14 Slender Scotch Burnet Moth Zygaena loti scotica Y Y Y 15 Pearl-bordered Fritillary Boloria euphrosyne Y Y Y 16 Chequered Skipper Carterocephalus palaemon Y Y N 17 Marsh Fritillary Euphydryas aurinia Y Y Y 18 Timid Burrowing Anemone Edwardsia timida Y Y N 19 Fan Mussel Atrina fragilis Y Y N 20 Freshwater Pearl Mussel Margaritifera margaritifera Y Y Y 21 Geyer's Whorl Snail Vertigo geyeri Y Y N 22 Welch’s Money Spider Erigone welchi Y N N 23 Bend-bearing Blunt-brow Spider Silometopus incurvatus Y Y N

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Table A3.5: Fish Species Selected for Action Under Species UK BAP SBL SNH Species Action Common Name Scientific Name Framework

1 Allis shad Alosa alosa Y Y N 2 Twaite shad Alosa fallax Y Y N 3 Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar Y Y N 4 Sea Lamprey Petromyzon marinus Y Y N 5 River Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis Y Y N 6 Basking shark Cetorhinus maximus Y Y N

Table A3.6: Marine Mammal Species Selected for Action Species UK BAP SBL SNH Species Action Common Name Scientific Name Framework

1 Harbour porpoise Phocaena phocaena Y Y N 2 Common Dolphin Delphinus delphis Y Y N 3 White-beaked Dolphin Lagenorhynchus albirostris Y Y N 4 Bottle-nosed Dolphin Tursiops truncatus Y Y N 5 Minke Whale Balaenoptera acutororstrata Y Y N 6 Killer Whale Orcinus orca Y Y N

Table A3.7: Herptile Species Selected for Action Species UK BAP SBL SNH Species Action Common Name Scientific Name Framework

1 Adder Vipera berus Y Y N 2 Great crested newt Triturus cristatus Y Y Y

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Table A3.8: Bird Species Selected for Action Species UK BAP SBL SNH Species Action Frame- work Common Name Scientific Name 1 Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons YY Y 2 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis NN N 3Scaup Aythya marila YY N 4 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra YY N 5 Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus YN N 6 Black Grouse Tetrao tetrix YY Y 8 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata YY N 9 Black-throated Diver Gavia arctica YY N 10 Storm petrel Hydrobates pelagicus NN N 11 Osprey Pandion haliatetus YY N 12 White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla NY Y 13 Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos YY N 14 Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus NY N 15 Merlin Falco columbarius YY N 16 Peregrine Falco peregrinus YY N 17 Corncrake Crex crex YY N 18 Dunlin Calidris alpina YY N 19 Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria NY N 20 Lapwing Vanellus vanellus YY N 21 Redshank Tringa totanus YY N 22 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa YY N 23 Curlew Numenius arquata YY N 24 Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus YY N 25 Herring Gull Larus argentatus YY N 26 Little tern Sternula albifrons NY N 27 Arctic tern Sterna paradiseaea NN N 28 Common tern Sterna hirundo NN N 29 Cuckoo Cuculus canorus YY N 30 Short-eared owl Asio flammeus YY N 31 Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus YY N 32 Swift Apus apus YY N 33 Skylark Alauda arvensis YY N 34 Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus YY N 35 Song Thrush Turdus philomelos YY N 36 Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia YY N

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Species UK SNH Species Action SBL Common Name Scientific Name BAP Framework 37 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix YY N 38 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca YY N 39 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata YY N 40 Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus YY N 41 Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax NY N 42 Tree Sparrow Passer montanus NN N 43 Twite Carduelis flavirostris YN N 44 Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula YY N 45 Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus YY N

Table A3.9: Terrestrial Mammal Species Selected for Action

Species UK SBL SNH Species Action Common Name Scientific Name BAP Framework 1 Red Squirrel Sciurus vulgaris Y Y Y 2 Water Vole Arvicola terrestris Y Y Y 3 Otter Lutra lutra Y Y N 4 ‘Scottish’ Wildcat Felix sylvestris grampia Y Y Y 5 Soprano Pipistrelle Bat Pipistrellus pygmaeus Y Y N 6 Brown Long-eared Bat Plecotus auritus Y Y N 7 Noctule Bat Nyctalus noctula Y Y N Table A3.10: Summary of Number of Habitats and Species Selected for Actionthis Habitat or Species Group Number Included In LBAP Habitats 35 Fungus Species 9 Lichen Species 11 Plant Species 3 Invertebrate Species 23 Fish Species 6 Marine Mammal Species 6 Herptile Species 2 Bird Species 45 Terrestrial Mammal Species 7 TOTAL 147

83 Argyll and Bute Biodiversity Action Plan - Draft Appendix 4: List of Potential Projects in Work Programmes Project title and Number Key outputs and outcomes

Freshwater DF3: Argyll dragonfly leaflet To promote awareness of Argyll’s dragonflies and damselflies with land managers and owners, and the public, through production of a bespoke leaflet suitable to assist with field identification. FW12: Salmon and sea trout Continuing work from the first phase, which encompassed habitat assessment, undertake monitoring and investigative work restoration to assess recruitment of salmon and trout to Loch Fyne rivers. FW13: Removing stream Continuing work from the first phase, this will aim to secure funds to implement the schedule of prioritised removal of crossings obstacles to fish obstacles that are present in key watercourses. migration. FW14: Implementation of River Implement the habitat enhancement work and resolve the constraints identified as inhibiting salmonid fisheries management Awe salmonids fisheries in the River Awe. management plan FW15: River Awe salmonids Improved understanding of how the River Awe is used by these species, the River’s habitat status and constraints in fisheries management plan operation that effect salmonids. This is the scoping phase for a follow-on project to implement the habitat enhancement identified and to help resolve the constraints on effective fisheries management. 2010-2011

Marine and Coastal Key outputs and outcomes MC16: Tern Raft breeding The ABC is already supporting Tern rafts at South Shian that are being monitored by Clive Craik at SAMS. Work is also done programme by RSPB protecting and monitoring known Little Tern breeding sites on Tiree including predator control, signage in the breeding season to reduce disturbance, and raising public awareness. There is however, interest from the ABC in expanding tern conservation work further, and therefore this project is to identify suitable waterbodies for raft deployment, monitor all known breeding sites biannually and monitor all water bodies with rafts annually. MC17: Firth of Clyde sea trout Assessment of the behaviour, survival and productivity of sea trout in collaboration with the Ayrshire, Clyde and Lomond, and project Argyll Fisheries Trusts M 18: Salmon and sea trout Expand the monitoring of migration beyond Lochaber and Loch Linnhe, in order to determine and better understand these smolt migration migration movements. MC19. Raise awareness of Increased awareness of Priority Marine Features using file shell beds since this is a little know very photogenic habitat and Priority Marine Features - File we have two good examples in Argyll and Bute. Increase awareness of the special marine habitats and species of Scotland Shell Beds particularly those important to Argyll and Bute. Publicise through online and printed material such as leaflets and posters Lowland and Farmland Key outputs and outcomes LW11: Identification and survey Building on the national waxcap grassland survey, this project will train local volunteers to identify and monitor important of waxcap grassland waxcap grassland sites. The aims is to ensure landowners and managers are aware of the location of important waxcap grassland on their ground and manage to protect it. LW12: Provision of management Production and dissemination of clear management advice to help land managers maintain the rich diversity of waxcap advice for waxcap grassland grasslands.

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Project title and Number Key outputs and outcomes

Woodlands W18: Provide woodland Provide owners of woodland or community groups with the Woodland Grazing Toolkit and advice on how to manage woodland management advice in a sustainable way that will promote and conserve biodiversity. Where suitable give advice on grants that are available and how these may be obtained. W19: Maintenance of Provide advice to power companies to manage wayleaves at pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly sites on a more regular basis, wayleaves for pearl-bordered beyond the basic requirement. fritillary butterfly W20: Provide management Post-construction monitoring of changes in the bryophyte communities of a riverine system subject to a hydro scheme adviceonbryophytes development. Information on the impacts of a hydro scheme water extraction regime is currently nonexistent. Pre-construction communities. monitoring of such schemes has taken place so only needs to be repeated and reported. However, this work needs to be prioritised in order that it is completed. The project will help inform developers and consultees on the likely changes of bryophyte communities when altering flow regimes in important ravines and gulleys of Argyll. Uplands Key outputs and outcomes

U3: Scottish mountain hare Conduct a follow up survey to the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust mountain hare populations, study and possibly survey enhance methodology and frequency to every 3-4 years instead of every 11-12 years.

U4: Peatland restoration Assess the condition of non-designated blanket bogs, as resources allow. Promote management such as drain blocking and modification of grazing regimes where these are having an adverse effect on the peat.

U5: Sub-montane scrub This project will seek to restore pockets of sub-montane scrub by planting dwarf willows and juniper in locations where grazing restoration and browsing pressure is low enough to let them re-establish. Advice on best practice will be obtained from the national montane scrub action group, National Trust for Scotland Ben Lawers and Scottish Agricultural College Kirkton, where pilot projects are already underway.

U6: Golden eagle interactions This project will secure financial contributions from windfarm developers where golden eagle activity has been recorded on site with windfarms during EIA surveys. The objective is to ensure that there is sufficient pre and post-construction monitoring to ensure improved understanding of golden eagle and windfarm interactions. BG6: Lek site habitat Implement habitat management recommendations in additional lek sites. management Built Environment Key outputs and outcomes

BE11: Identify, designate and Use the open space audit to identify and assess potential new community wildlife sites and possible LNRs. The ABC is manage new LNRs supporting a new proposal for an LNR at Broxwood, Sandbank, centred on the new bird hide to which it contributed funding, but the ABC would also be interested in supporting similar proposals elsewhere in Argyll.

BE12: Non-native invasive Raise awareness of invasive species within and around built up areas, and encourage support for their treatment and control species action through events, leaflets and provision of advice.

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Appendix 5: Green Networks ( Extract taken from the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership)

What is the Green Network?

The Green Network is a concept based around three themes outlined above. The form, size and function of its individual elements will vary signifi- cantly across the area; however, the combination of these disparate individual elements is what will create the Network. In thinking about the development of the Green Network, it is helpful to distinguish between:

Green Network Cores/Hubs• – large areas of existing or new greenspace which already deliver a wide range of Green Network benefits. The aim should be to protect and expand these areas, to create new cores/hubs, create visual connections and, critically, to develop corridors to link them;

Green Network Corridors and links• – continuous corridors of greenspace along rivers, disused railways, paths and cycleways and existing rail- ways and roads which serve to connect Green Network Cores/Hubs. Many of these corridors are incomplete, or provide a limited number of func- tions, so a key aim is to increase the number, continuity, visual interaction and functionality of these corridors;

Green Network Stepping stones• – it may not always be necessary or appropriate to create a continuous corridor of greenspace. Many plant and animal species, for example, are able to move short distances between areas of habitat. Many Victorian and Georgian suburbs had regular public and private squares set amongst densely developed terraces. The development of Green Network Stepping Stones can provide incomplete corridors linking larger areas of greenspace. This could include the planting of street trees, improved roadside verges or garden improvement. It is likely that there will always be some isolated greenspaces which, provide considerable benefits to local communities.

Biodiversity and Environment Development of the Green Network aims to enhance biodiversity and landscape quality, promote sustainable design, encourage enjoyment and understanding of the environment, reduce the impacts of climate change and secure the long-term sustainability across Glasgow and the Clyde Valley. Key opportunities include the enhancement of a network of habitats, the use of the greenspace for flood management and to ameliorate air and water pollution, management of the historic environment and the use of the Green Network to encourage more sustainable lifestyles. Key Green Network benefits therefore include

Biodiversity Habitat networks Landscape and placemaking Reducing the impacts of climate change Air quality Flood management Sustainable transport and Cultural heritage.

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Planning has a key role to play in maximising the environmental benefits of the Green Network. 2.13 Planning a high quality Green Network will result in a positive transformation of landscapes and townscapes across the region, bringing significant environmental benefits for everyone who lives or works here, or who comes to visit. While protection is already provided for important nature conservation sites, there is an opportunity to use the planning system as a means of enhancing the biodiversity value of other green spaces, and, critically, to link them up to reverse decades of habitat fragmentation. The planning system can help ensure that greenspaces deliver multiple benefits – for example creating a wetland habi- tat, which also forms part of a Sustainable Drainage System, or woodland that helps improve local air quality. It can also create human networks – contributing to safe and attractive access routes, which can in turn encourage people to walk or to cycle. Planning can also help create opportuni- ties for people to learn more about their local environment - whether that is through the creation of a Local Nature Reserve, the management of an historic landscape or monument, or even by involvement in a community garden.

Green Network Outcomes The Green Network will deliver a range of outcomes including:

increasing the attractiveness of the region as a location for business creating opportunities for health improvement building stronger and better connected communities and protecting and enhancing wildlife and the environment.

The planning system is one of the most important means of realising this vision.

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