Ayrshire Catchments Bio-security Planning

Ayrshire Rivers Trust is currently developing a Catchments Bio-security plan associated with identifying the risk of introduction and spread of non native invasive species and fish diseases in Ayrshire rivers. The Ayrshire bio-security plan is one of twenty being produced as part of a nationwide Bio-security Planning Project by members of Rivers and Fisheries Trusts of Scotland (RAFTS). Three pilot plans have been produced by the Argyll Fisheries Trust, The Esks Rivers & Rivers Fisheries Trust and the Deveron, Bogie & Isla Rivers Charitable Trust. These plans identify the risk, delegate responsibility and co-ordinate restoration following introductions.

The Ayrshire plan will focus on the three key areas – prevention, detection and rapid response and finally control and eradication. In the case of any invasive species, prevention is always better than cure and this will be central to the biosecurity plan. Bio-security planning for rivers is a complex but innovative measure designed to protect against the worst scenarios imaginable. Threats such as Gyrodactylus salaris, the fish parasite responsible for destroying salmon stocks on over 40 Norwegian rivers.

Gyrodactylus salaris is but one of a host of threats to native species. The economic cost of an introduction could be disastrous to the Scottish economy and consequently the development of these plans is supported by conservation organisations and the Scottish Government. Stakeholder consultations will form an essential part of the process as the plan will represent the agreed approach of all parties.

Dates and venues for consultations will be announced shortly when all interested parties will be invited to participate in the process.