Bristol-led scheme to protect UK flora and fauna expanded

A scheme to protect the UK's native flora and fauna from invasive species is being expanded.

The Aquatic Quality Award (AQUA) is led by Bristol Zoological Society and works with organisations carrying out water-based activities, such as anglers.

In total, 45 sites have been accredited and this is being extended to 15 more.

UK biosecurity conservation officer Neil Green said the scheme is helping to "save our waterways from the scourge of invasive species".

AQUA started as a pilot trial in 2019 in partnership with South West Water and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Due to its success, the scheme is being expanded with funding from Defra. 

Mr Green, who works for Bristol Zoological Society, said: "Over the last few years, we have built a network of sites, angler groups, fisheries, water managers, and many more.

"By expanding the programme, we hope to raise awareness of the importance of biosecurity and safeguard beautiful sites throughout the UK for many more years to come."

Invasive species cost the UK more than £1.8bn annually and include fish, invertebrates, and plants that have a negative effect on our native species.

With more than 50 different freshwater invasive species, the scheme encourages organisations to use Defra's 'Check, Clean and Dry' protocol, for all equipment used and worn when entering waterways.

There are three levels of the award and holding the accreditation will prove the site is maximising its conservation efforts, which, it is hoped, will make it a more attractive place to visit and enjoy.

Severn Trent, Yorkshire Water, and British Canoeing have recently joined the scheme.

Amy Watsham, warden for Yorkshire Water's Tophill Low Nature Reserve, said: "Being part of the scheme has really helped to focus our biosecurity activities on and off the reserve.

"This will go a long way in helping us preserve the native biodiversity many come far and wide to enjoy."

As well as the UK expansion, there are also plans to compile a digital handbook which can be easily shared between waterway users and managers.

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