Biological information
It is necessary to have basic information on species and
habitats, such as range, distribution and abundance, in order to
make informed conservation decisions on priorities and targets.
Changes in populations or distributions can then be identified, for
example in response to climate change, and better decisions made on
how to address these issues through the Suffolk Biodiversity
Action Plan (BAP). A variety of organisations and individuals
collect this information which, in Suffolk, is collated and
held by a records centre.
Biological Records Centre
Suffolk Biological Records Centre (SBRC),
provides a focus for biodiversity information in Suffolk,
holding extensive datasets on sites, habitats and species. Thus, it
has been possible for SBRC to publish a series of 'State of Nature'
reports. These cover the important habitats in Suffolk,
providing an overview of the current condition of BAP habitats and
species, progress towards targets and the nature of
pressures on our wildlife.
All the major habitats will be covered on a 5-yearly cycle.
Heathland and Woodland reports are now available; the Coastal
report will be available January 2009.
Monitoring Progress
Details of the UK's progress towards protection and enhancement of
our biodiversity is held on a national database
Biodiversity Action Reporting
System (BARS). This database can provide
detailed information and reports on species and habitats and,
importantly, is accessible by everyone.
A Priority Habitats and Species Review took place in July 2007. For
a details of the total 1149 species and 65 habitats listed, view
the UK BAP
website page.
That review was updated in May 2008 by the 'NERC Act S41
list of species and habitats of principal importance'. The list
contains 56 habitats and 938 species - view the list on the
BARS
website News Help and Information. The relevance of the new
plans to Suffolk is currently being assessed and information will
be available by autumn 2008.
The S41 list will guide decision-makers such as public bodies,
including local and regional authorities, in implementing their
duty under section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural
Communities Act 2006 "to have regard" to the conservation
of biodiversity in England, when carrying out their normal
functions.
Since the content of the national UK BAP guides the structure of
the Suffolk BAP, these two reviews are key to the work of the
Suffolk Biodiversity Partnership.