1.Introduction
The Lough Neagh Wetlands Local Biodiversity Action Plan was prepared following consultation with local people and various organisations and agencies operating within the area.
Biodiversity includes the whole variety of life on Earth. The living world is made up of many thousands of different animals and plants. Local biodiversity is represented by all the plant and animal species that we see in the Lough Neagh Wetlands but it also includes the genetic variation and the complex ecosystems of which they are part. Every living creature has its own genetic 'fingerprint', the greater the variety of plants and animals, the greater the genetic diversity. Even tiny or insignificant plants may have a vital place in a food chain and the whole network of living things. Everything is precious, if you destroy one small part, you may lose much more. Biodiversity is not restricted to rare or threatened species like the barn owl, but also to more common species like the Stoat.
In 2005, the Lough Neagh Wetlands Biodiversity Officer began to assess the condition of local biodiversity, and to develop effective partnerships that would deliver action for those species and habitats most in need of help. An audit of the local biodiversity resource was compiled. This audit included extensive searches for information relating to the area. It also included talking to people locally about the condition of their local biodiversity and to get ideas for action. Local biodiversity workshops were set up at Bellaghy, Ardboe, Dungannon, Craigavon, Glenavy and Antrim where participants presented their views on the issues that they felt should be addressed in a Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP). A list of species and habitats was then produced in 2006 with details of their status within the Wetlands.
10 habitats and 11 species were selected from the list put forward in 2006 so that Action Plans could be prepared. The introduction and spread of non-native invasive species, such as zebra mussel and giant hogweed, was identified as a major threat to local biodiversity. As a result, a Non-native invasive Species Action Plan has been prepared to help address this threat.
TheLough Neagh Wetlands Local Biodiversity Action Plancontains 10 Habitat Action Plans, 11 Species Action Plans and 1 non-native Species Action Plan. This is the first phase for action to halt the decline of biodiversity locally. Further opportunity exists to continue to add Species and Habitat Action Plans where required.
The following habitats and species plans contain actions that identify Lead Partners. Lead Partners are those tasked with leading on specific projects, with the assistance of others, as identified against each action.