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What are Local Wildlife Sites?
Local Wildlife Sites are wildlife rich
areas identified and selected for their local nature
conservation value. Selection takes into consideration
important, distinctive and threatened habitats and
species. Local Wildlife Sites vary in size, shape and
habitat type and can include wildlife rich ponds,
heaths, wetlands and ancient woodlands and grasslands.
Why are they valuable?
Areas where wildlife thrives are very
important. Local Wildlife Sites are vital in providing
refuges for flora and fauna and creating a network of
sites acting as corridors for migration and dispersal.
They are the most important places for wildlife outside
of protected areas such as Sites of Special Scientific
Interest.
The Monmouthshire and Blaenau
Gwent picture
In Monmouthshire and Blaenau Gwent we are currently
concentrating on identifying areas of species rich
grasslands. The counties represents the Welsh hot spot for
this habitat which is included, within both the UK BAP
(Biodiversity Action Plan) and recently written
Monmouthshire local BAP. Grasslands have been identified as some of the best examples of
species rich grassland that the county has to offer and
represent an important wildlife resource.
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How are sites identified?
Sites for survey are initially
targeted through the study of existing habitat survey
data followed by field visits. Sites are assessed
against a set of Wildlife Site Criteria and can be
identified for both their faunal and floral interest.
Finally the sites are presented to a Wildlife Sites
Selection Panel, for consideration as identification as
Local Wildlife Sites.
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What would having a Local Wildlife
Site mean to a landowner?
Local Wildlife Sites have NO statutory
protection and are a voluntary system to encourage and
support landowners in the management of sites. They are
recognition that the land is one of the best places for
wildlife in Monmouthshire and Blaenau Gwent and
something to be proud of. A
Local Wildlife Site owner can have access to expert
advice regarding species and habitat management, with
potential financial support to assist with this
management.
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