project_23357 - RAPID LIFE - Large-scale flagship projects to demonstrate effective management strategies and techniques for widespread IAS, East of England region.

Tender description

RAPID (Reducing And Preventing IAS Dispersal) LIFE is a three year project led by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), with Natural England and Bristol Zoo as key partners, that will pilot an innovative approach to Invasive Alien Species (IAS) management in freshwater aquatic, riparian and coastal environments across England. Globally, IAS are considered to be one of the most significant causes of biodiversity loss, second only to habitat destruction. RAPID LIFE will deliver a package of measures to reduce the impact and spread of IAS in freshwater aquatic, riparian and coastal environments across England. It will help to conserve species protected under the Birds and Habitats Directives whilst assisting in compliance with the EU Regulation on IAS, Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Water Framework Directive. The status of Natura 2000 sites will also be and enhanced and protected. RAPID LIFE will work in freshwater aquatic, riparian and coastal environments in five regions across England. For this action, two study regions have been prioritised, as shown in the maps at the end of this document:  East of England  South West