for Nature How to plan Action planning
How to plan for Nature Action planning skills in practice Tr a i n e r ’ s m a n u a l How to plan for Nature Trainer’s manual Action planning skills in practice Local skills for biodiversity Integrating biodiversity into local plans and actions offers many opportunities for local sustainable development. As a result of ongoing decentralisation, local administrations have increasing responsibilities for the implementation of biodiversity related policies. BD SKILLS developed a biodiversity training approach for local administrations’ staff based on best available practice. Staff will be trained with the new material, allowing them to better integrate biodiversity into local plans and actions. This will improve their technical knowledge, skills and personal development and increase their value on the job market influenced by the greening of the economy. National and regional biodiversity related policy objectives will be better integrated at the local level. Further information on www.biodiversityskills.eu This document has been prepared as part of the international Leonardo da Vinci Project “Local Skills for Biodiversity” carried out by a consortium of seven partners from five Northwest European countries. Project partners ECNC-European Centre for Nature Conservation Atelier technique des espaces naturels, France Gelderse Natuur - en Milieufederatie, the Netherlands Natureparif, France Alfred Toepfer Akademie für Naturschutz, Germany Natuurpunt Educatie, Belgium Yorkshire and Humber Environment Trust, United Kingdom Project leader and contact ECNC-European Centre for Nature Conservation P.O. Box 90154 NL-5000 LG Tilburg The Netherlands www.ecnc.org Introduction 7 Preparing and giving the lectures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Organisation of the excursion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Running the working groups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Annexes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 How to plan for Nature? General preparation of the training course. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Action planning skills in practice Contents 5 General preparation of the training course How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice General preparation of the training course Introduction Several steps need to be taken to prepare a successful training. The full process is described below, but not all steps necessarily apply to each and every situation. The training can be offer-driven (the training provider actively looks for potential clients - municipalities) or demand-driven (the municipality or other organisation wishing to offer the training to its staff organises the training with its internal resources or contracts an external training provider). In reality both approaches are likely to converge. The training material can either be used to provide the training in house, or to find an external consultant to do so. • • • • • Preliminary steps for training providers and municipalities Reaching an agreement on the type of training and the roles of the different parties involved Preparation of the training: identify and prepare excursion sites; adapt materials (such as Powerpoint presentations and cases to the target group); invite the potential trainees; prepare the background notes, organise transport, venues, accommodation, food, excursion etc. The training itself starts when participants arrive and ends when they leave after the evaluation Evaluation of the training and lessons learned Preliminary steps The identification of potential clients by a training provider should not be too difficult. Basically, any municipality that does not have a comprehensive biodiversity action plan (or similar, such as a green infrastructure plan) could benefit from having this training given to its staff. 7 General preparation of the training course How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Once municipalities have been identified, a request should be made to meet key staff (e.g. senior planning officers, human resources managers) in order to present key components of the training course and its benefits to the municipality and specific staff. These are: • • • Better capacity to locally transpose national requirements in implementing biodiversity , water and planning regulations in a comprehensive way; Increased ability to deal with various related spatial and environmental issues in an integrated way; Improved skills to identify and put to practical use the multiple benefits of biodiversity and ecosystem services for local sustainable development. The training can be used for various purposes and audiences. For example, it can be offered in an abridged form to higher level policy and decision makers in order to demonstrate the value and opportunities of working with nature at a local level. Organising a two-hour lecture based on power point presentations, lecture notes and hand-outs based on Chapters 1 to 3 of the Handbook can be sufficient for this purpose. Note that such a short introduction can be organised to promote the training itself. In its full format (see table below), it can be used to give formal training to planners or other staff (or even stakeholders from outside the council) involved in the local planning process who recognise the need for additional training in the view of their increasing responsibilities regarding the greening of their planning activities to implement international agreements and reach national targets. Deciding on the training format Whether offer-driven (by a training provider) or demand-driven (by a municipality), the presentation of the training opportunities and their benefits are likely to result in an agreement for the training to take place. Various combinations of modules are possible for different types of audiences and to adapt to the time and resources available. A typical sequence of events for training is given below. It can be adapted according to the needs and requirements of a short, intermediate or full training. Introductory “training” or promotion/ presentation (mainly for Heads of department, etc.): 2 hours, any time of day, including in the evening. Full course: Several options can be considered when offering a full course. The package Week 1 Short Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 1 two-hour lecture Intermediate 2 one-hour lectures 2 one-hour 2 two-hour lectures working groups Intermediate 4 one-hour lectures compact 2 two-hour working groups Full 2 one-hour lectures Full compact 4 one-hour lectures 1 half-day excursion 2 two-hour working groups 8 2 one-hour 1 half-day lectures excursion 2 two-hour working groups General preparation of the training course How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice consisting of lectures, excursion and working groups can be offered in a two-day intensive training (Full compact), or alternatively spread over a longer period of time, such as a series of four onehour lectures (one per week), followed by a half-day excursion and two working group sessions (Full). An intermediate form could consist of only lectures and working groups. Planning and preparation Once the assignment and funding of the training have been confirmed, the steps towards practical preparation can begin. For the complete version of the training (with possible overnight stay of the trainees, several working groups and a field trip) thorough planning is essential. For the short introduction based on the lecture only, less planning will be required. Activities to think of as part of the preparation process: • Agree on the date and venue; • Organise the venue, accommodation, food and drinks (and as an option, evening entertainment); • Identify (and brief) the trainer(s) / facilitator(s); • Draft the programme; • Send out invitation, registration form, background information and programme; • Organise the excursion; • Keep track of registrations and prepare stationery; • Send out handbook and excursion briefing; • Organise transfers (optional). Agree on the date and venue: select a date well in the future in order to allow participants to organise themselves, especially for the full version of the training including working groups and excursion; Organise the venue, accommodation, food and drinks, evening entertainment: take good care of the practical organisation. A comfortable venue, food and drinks help to create a setting conducive to a good meeting. If the training lasts more than a day, think of some evening entertainment. Above all, the venue should allow for plenary sessions and breakout groups and have projection facilities, flipcharts, etc. Identify (and brief) the trainer(s) / facilitator(s): in most cases (except for the short introductory lecture) it is advisable to have at least one lecturer and one facilitator (for groups up to 12 participants). For larger groups (e.g. 25 – 30 participants), up to two trainers and two facilitators might be needed. Some trainers will be confident to present all or most of the subjects included in the training. If not, different trainers / presenters should be found for specific subjects; Drafting the programme: a draft programme is included as annex. It should be adapted to the situation and the needs, but provides some useful references. Make sure to allow enough time for questions and answers, for coffee breaks and for the exercises; Send out invitation, registration form, background information and programme: send the invitation well in advance (several weeks or months), especially if working groups and excursion are included because such a programme will take a full day or two. Include a leaflet about the training (available on the website) and draft a letter that underlines the benefits of participating in the training; 9 General preparation of the training course How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Organise the excursion: the key issue here is to ensure that you leave plenty of time for flexibility in case of weather, transport or other difficulties; Keep track of registrations and prepare stationery: print latest version of documents (programme), and badges (or name tags) in the week before the training; Send out handbook and excursion briefing: once the registration deadline has passed, and at least two weeks before workshop, send the handbook (either hardcopy or link to the website), the revised and detailed programme, including the description of the excursions to the registered participants; Organise transfers and accommodation (optional). The training itself - a typical programme • • • • • The following lays out a typical sequence of events for a full compact training event (2 days): A more dynamic option is to alternate between lectures and exercises: first lecture (biodiversity), exercise steps 1 & 2, second lecture (policy framework), exercise steps 3 & 4; third lecture (biodiversity and planning), exercise steps 5 & 6; fourth lecture (communication), exercise step 7. This option requires that the exercises take place in another room than the plenary lectures. Part 1 (half day): Opening and lectures Welcome • • Refreshments are served Registration desk with latest printed materials, registration list, badges, instructions Plenary lecture • Communication: power point slide with name of the training/presentation, date and place projected • Opening (by Mayor, Head of Department, Director,..) • Health and safety instructions (escape routes etc). Check with the health and safety officer. • Presentation round • First lecture: Biodiversity and ecosystem services • Questions • Coffee break • Second lecture: Policy framework • Questions • Lunch / dinner Part 2 (half day): Lectures and working groups Plenary lecture (continued) • Third lecture: Biodiversity and planning • Questions • Fourth lecture: Communication 10 General preparation of the training course How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice • Questions • Coffee break Working groups • Introduction to working groups (details) • Assemble the groups and assign the cases • Exercise 1: What do we have? • Exercise 2: What do we want? • Working • Lunch / dinner Part 3 (half day) Excursion Part 4 (half day): Working groups (part 2) and wrap up Working groups • Instructions for exercises part 2 • Exercise 3: How do we get there? • Exercise 4: Presentation of the results and discussion Closing • Evaluation Wrap-up and closing of the training (optional handing out of certificates) Materials checklist for the training • • • • Flipchart, 4 colour markers for the trainer Laptop Beamer Screen • • • • Notepad and pen for the trainees Hand-outs Coffee, tea, cookies for the breaks Water and glasses on the tables Evaluation It is always useful to carry out an evaluation. This is an effective manner to receive specific feedback on how to improve future training sessions. The results can also be used to promote future business. A simple and easy way to gather some quick evaluation feedback from the group in plenary is to draw a (two column) T-chart on a flipchart. In the first column you record “what was good” and in the second “what could have been better”. A draft evaluation form (in English) is given on the website for downloading. It can be used and adapted according to the needs. Always try to carry out the evaluation as part of the training. Ensure that the programme includes 15 minutes for the participants to fill out and hand in the form. This is much better than asking them to fill out the form and send it back from home. 11 Preparing and giving the lectures How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Preparing and giving the lectures The lectures should be given by a trainer with a solid background in ecology and/or planning. This can be an ecologist with interest and/or experience in planning or a planner with an interest and/ or experience in ecology. The trainer should ideally also have experience in making interesting presentations and thus have some basic communication skills. Alternatively, an additional trainer with specific expertise (e.g. ecology, communication, etc.) can be asked to make a presentation. For this type of practical training, it is suggested that the participants should work as much as possible in an interactive manner. The power point presentations and lecture notes (available for download on the website) have been developed in such a way that they help and guide the trainer to make the presentation interactive. By this we mean reaching a conclusion by querying the participants before giving the “official” answer. This requires some flexibility and improvisation skills from the trainer and a reasonable level of confidence about the subject matter. Some basic generic presentations are given on the website that can be adapted to the needs. It is always possible and useful to organise one or two guest lectures about real life projects, for example about the site(s) to be visited as part of the excursion. 12 Organising the excursion How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Organising the excursion Introduction If carefully chosen and well-prepared, the site visit or excursion can be a very rewarding and useful element in the training. Its value for the training increases if logical and mutually reinforcing links can be established with the other course modules (especially the lectures and working groups). Therefore preparation is of the essence, including a good briefing of the excursion leaders and site managers. 1. Choice of the site or sites to visit This is the most important decision to make, as it determines what the trainees will be able to see. The site should be able to illustrate some key concepts that are dealt with as part of the training. Alternatively, the site to visit could be selected to show a specific problem that could be addressed as part of the exercise. Depending on the level of expertise of participants, the result of the exercise could then be fed back to the municipality as a suggestion for a solution. For timing reasons the choice of the site should preferably be made at the same time as the choice for the location of the training. Trainees have generally little time to spend on training, so time should not be wasted in travel to and from the excursion site. Therefore, look for a suitable site as near as possible to the training venue, or alternatively, try and organise the training on, or as near as possible to, the excursion site(s). 2. Contact and briefing of the local guide / excursion leader Establish contact with the municipality and explain the request and ask for a contact person. Have the contact person suggest a local guide or excursion leader. It is important to have a guide the trainees consider as their peer to explain the project. If the group mainly consists of spatial planners, it is good to have a spatial planner explaining the background, issue, approach, activities and results of the project, programme or plan. This will make it possible for the trainees and guide to “speak the same language.” Alternatively, the suggestion can be made to have two guides (for example a planner and an ecologist) and/or to include a presentation of an elected representative (alderman or vice-mayor) in the programme to explain the policy context of the project. Meet the contact person and the excursion leader in advance to: • • Explain the aims and objectives of the training (e.g. bring the leaflet or a copy of the handbook); Describe the audience (education level, position, etc.); 13 Organising the excursion How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice • • • Describe the role of the excursion as part of the training. What do you want the excursion to convey to the participants; Discuss if the project site could also serve as a case for the working groups, and if so, if some materials (maps, reports, tables) could be made available1; Agree on date and time. Make sure that something of the original situation can be illustrated in order to show what the project has achieved. This can be prepared by the municipality as part of an introductory speech (with PowerPoint) on the day of the excursion. 3. Planning Checklist for planning and organising an excursion • • • • • • • • • • • Set objective (what should the excursion contribute to the training?) Select the venue Contact the municipality (or other organisation(s) in charge) to make an excursion request Agree excursion date, time and possible costs with contact person Discuss the programme with excursion guide and contact person Organise transport and food (bring drinks and sandwiches or make sure they are available at the site) Prepare excursion briefing for trainees, based on material provided by contact person / excursion guide Include excursion briefing in training pack Ensure participants bring suitable clothing (e.g. boots, waterproofs, etc.) Bring a couple of spare waterproof jackets or boots (if available) just in case Confirm number of participants to excursion contact person a few days before Depending on the time available, the excursion should last a morning, an afternoon or a full day. Depending on the situation (time available, size of sites, distance between sites, etc.) one or more sites can be visited. Depending on the group size, interests and backgrounds, two or more parallel excursions to different sites (e.g. rural and urban) may be envisaged. 4. Briefing of the trainees On basis of the material provided by the municipality, prepare a briefing note on the excursion(s) to be included in the training pack sent to the trainees in advance of the course. If there are two or more simultaneous excursions, which could be the case with a large group, then the briefing helps trainees make their choice. The briefing note should ideally contain a description of the site, the background, the problem and a hint of the solution. Include a map and pictures if possible. The note should also mention possible special preparation such as bringing adapted clothing and footwear. 5. Programme template This draft programme should be adapted according to the situation, but it gives some general guidelines. 1 Maps should be printable on A0 or A1 format and show important topographical features. Smaller maps could be provided showing themes such as infrastructure, hydrology, land use and natural habitats. Reports should be concise and contain descriptions of the habitats, land use and some economic figures. Finally, the problem, challenge or development should be described in terms as simple as the examples given in Annex 4. 14 Organising the excursion How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Eve of excursion Brief participants: • make clear what time and place they should assemble, and what to bring (e.g. boots, camera, etc.) • distribute hand-outs (map, background of the project, etc.) Excursion day Hh:mm from start Activity 00:00 assemble for the excursion 00:15 get in buses 00:30 arrival at the municipality 00:45 welcome by the Mayor or his representative 01:00 PowerPoint presentation of the project by the local planner / ecologist (background, problem issue, objectives, activities, results). 01:15 questions and discussion 01:30 transfer to the site 01:45 visit of the site transfer to the second site (optional, if so, add 15 minutes) visit of the second site (optional, if so, add 60 minutes) 02:45 04:00 transfer back to the municipality 03:00 04:15 short visit of the planning department to see the maps, reports, GIS relating to the project, including possibility to talk to some people working on the project/theme and to ask questions 03:15 04:30 travel back to the training venue 03:30 04:45 arrival at the training venue, and short coffee / refresh break 04:00 05:15 wrap up: in case of more excursions, short presentation of the excursions in plenary and discussion 15 Running the working groups How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Running the working groups The aim of the working groups is to train the participants to recognise and develop nature-based solutions to common spatial planning challenges. The exercise presupposes that the students have read the biodiversity training manual, have attended the lectures and participated in an on-site visit. Planning is more than a bottom-down knowledge-based application of simple rules. It involves carefully balancing of a wide range of competing interests. This is made even more complicated because in many regions pressure on the limited spatial resources is very high. There is a concentration of socio-economic functions, and just decisions have to be made to attribute enough of these spatial resources to the various competing activities. Checklist • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Trainer’s notes Power point presentation General hand-outs for the students Standard landscape descriptions Colour prints of a varied landscape and/or selected Google Earth views 2 flipchart sheets per group (to draw the maps) One set of markers (at least four different colours each) per group Sticky notes 2 flipcharts A venue that allows plenary sessions and break out groups (can be in the same room) A room with space and one large working area (at least 100 x 100 cm) per group A sticky wall (to fix the charts) A laptop A projector A screen This exercise is done in groups of three to six, depending on the total number of participants. Each group will have a simple situation to mimic in such a way as to encourage the participants to think in terms of nature-based solutions to common planning challenges, but taking other policy priorities into account. This exercise is aimed at identifying the opportunities for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of ecosystem services in the development planning in a local setting, through a participative ecosystem-based approach with a focus on green infrastructure. Four cases2 will be addressed in which specific socio-economic and ecological challenges need to be resolved. Learning benefits will not come from trainers alone, but especially from the pooling of experience among the participants. The exercise is devised to maximise the participation and sharing of ideas and experience. 2 Instead of described (realistic but invented) cases provided as part of this training, the trainer may wish to use a real case instead, for example the excursion site. This requires some more preparation, but is more challenging or interesting for certain audiences. 16 Running the working groups • • Draw the map of a landscape according to the guidelines Map the socio-economic and ecological features of the landscape Step 2: Evaluate the landscape features • Describe and value the biodiversity assets and ecosystem services in the landscape feature description form Step 3: Formulate the policy context • Formulate 1 to 5 environment policies according to the instructions Step 4: Present and discuss the maps, features and policy context in plenary • Presentation and discussion Step 5: Prepare the planning assignment 3 (in groups) [30 minutes] (in groups) [30 minutes] (in groups) [30 minutes] (in plenary) [40 minutes] (in groups or individually) • Compare your landscape feature valuation with the standard forms Annex 2 [15 minutes] • Think and/or talk about the assignment for the next day (individually or in small groups) [15 minutes] Step 6: Develop the planning proposals • Identify the opportunities and constraints for a development policy or project (given by the trainer) subject to the constraints of the nature/environment policies developed as part of Step 3 Step 7: Present, review and discuss the planning proposals How to plan for Nature? Step 1: Map the landscape and its features Action planning skills in practice This part of the training consists of seven steps, including some light homework: (in groups) [60 minutes] (in plenary) • Present the results before a panel (each group acts as a review committee / stakeholder group for one of the other groups) [40 minutes] • Moderated discussion and wrap-up [20 minutes] 3 In case the training is given over a two day period, this assignment can be given as homework. 17 Running the working groups How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Forming the groups and getting started In order to separate friends or colleagues sitting next to each other and to promote some mixing if the group is heterogeneous, form the groups by going through the group and pointing to each participant while repeatedly counting aloud from one to four (or the number corresponding to the number of groups if different from 4). Ask each one to remember his or her number; this corresponds to their group. Each number (or group) is given a case. These cases can be the four landscapes provided as part of this manual: • • • • Group 1: A small rural village Group 2: A natural upland protected area Group 3: A coastal port facility Group 4: A large urban area Alternatively, for example if the group mainly consists of urban planners, the same landscape (e.g. large urban area) can be used by all subgroups. Another possibility is to use other real or partly imagined cases based on specific cases one wishes to address; for example a site or project included in the excursion. For this, prior contact needs to be established with the site manager, to obtain some basic maps and data. If the tables where they work are in another room, make sure you have placed the flipchart sheets, the markers, the instructions and the forms, and clearly indicated the group numbers. If the groups stay in the same room, have the participants rearrange the tables so as to have four large table areas (100 by 100 cm) in the corners of the room and have the trainers distribute the materials. Tell the participants that they should: • • • go and sit at one of the large table corresponding to their group (this should be clearly indicated); choose / appoint one rapporteur per group; check they have all the materials (the list is projected on the screen). For each exercise, always inform the groups about the total time they get to complete the assignment. You can project the expected end time on the screen. Inform them when they are halfway and when there are 5 minutes left (for assignments of up to 30 minutes) and 10 minutes left (for exercises of 60 minutes). The trainers and assistants should walk among the groups, monitor progress, and assist if there are any doubts. 18 Running the working groups How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Step 1: Mapping the landscape and its features [30 minutes] Give the following instructions to the groups: • • • • • • • The objective of this exercise is to train your ability to think of the landscape in terms of the various types of benefits it offers to society, and to understand that multiple services and goods can be provided by a same landscape feature (for example a woodland, a park, a field, an industrial estate); For this you will first jointly draw the landscape according to the instructions and then assess the values or benefits each of the features you included in your landscape. On a flipchart sheet draw the map in 2D map view or 3D landscape view, as preferred, but in accordance with the instructions on the Assignment sheet for Steps 1 & 2 Annex 1 (page 24); You can use the available prints as inspiration, but you can also use your imagination or a combination of both; Identify each map feature (e.g. broadleaved forest, road, village, wetland, etc.) with a number or code to refer to the Landscape feature valuation form Annex 2 (page 29); Other features may be added; please be creative, but keep it manageable (no more than 15 different features in total); You have 30 minutes for this exercise. Step 2: Assessing the landscape values [30 minutes] • • • • • • Fill out the Landscape feature valuation form based on a rapid valuation using the best judgment of the group. Do not go into details and start with the three first rows (biodiversity, economic and social values). For a natural full grown forest, biodiversity value is obviously higher than for an industrial estate. It is these differences that should become clear in the form. Describe values in terms of 0=nil, 1= low, 2= moderate, 3= high, 4= very high (5 categories); Try and keep the momentum going in a brainstorm-like way. Do not discuss individual suggestions or ideas in first instance, but just write down all suggestions from the group; If time permits, go through the list and discuss the ecosystem services one by one and agree on the most important services per feature on the list; For example, a forest feature would typically provide fibre and fuel (wood), water regulation, climate mitigation etc.). Refer to the chapter on ecosystem services of the handbook and/or Annex 5 (page 61), if needed; The rapporteur should keep in mind that (s)he will have make a five minute presentation on the landscape and its social, economic and ecological values, threats and opportunities; You have 30 minutes for this exercise. 19 Running the working groups How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Landscape feature descriptions in Annex 4 (page 34) can be used by the trainers as reference to inspire the groups or help them one step further. These feature descriptions should, however, not be distributed to the groups yet. At the end of Step 2, tell the groups that the exercise is to be concluded, and that we have finalised an important part of the exercise: the situation analysis, valuing the features of the landscape for which we are going to develop a plan based on the ecosystem approach. Step 3: Formulate the policy context [30 minutes] We now proceed with the next step, defining our local nature conservation policies. Tell the groups: • • • • • The objective of this exercise is to train your ability to understand and develop local environmental conservation policies that help you weigh your options in terms of biodiversity and ecosystem services conservation; Together with the map, and the assessment of landscape features, these policies will be used to set the context for the planning challenge you will be presented with in the next exercise; Therefore, as part of this exercise, the next step is to define some nature conservation policies you think development plans in your area should comply with; You have 30 minutes to write one (comprehensive) or up to five (specific) naturerelated policies that should reflect some of the following objectives: • Protection of biodiversity and ecosystem services; • No net loss of biodiversity or ecosystem services: mitigation or compensation of biodiversity and ecosystem services; • Priority for ecosystem-based solutions in local development plans and projects; • Opportunities for or restoration of biodiversity and ecosystem services; • Climate change mitigation and adaptation; • Communication, education and public participation; Model policies Annex 6 (page 63) are available for inspiration. Step 4: Presentation and discussion [40 minutes] Call the participants back to the room and tell them: • The objective of this part is to further enhance your understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem benefits, the threats and opportunities that exist for nature at local level; • Presentation of the four landscapes and assets will be followed by a discussion, so that all participants obtain a general view of all the values, benefits, threats and opportunities that have been identified; • Each group gets 5 minutes to present the landscape and its associated social, economic and natural values; 20 Running the working groups • Action planning skills in practice • Identify features with potential for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity and ecosystem services (e.g. nature restoration/recreation in low-lying fields); Identify areas and features where biodiversity and ecosystem services might be threatened (e.g. road hampering ecological connectivity between two highbiodiversity value features); Each presentation will be followed by a 5-minute discussion of each landscape that should focus mainly on the biodiversity and ecosystem services identified and the likely bottlenecks for animal and plant conservation (and migration). How to plan for Nature? • Step 5: Prepare the planning assignment* [30 minutes] Distribute the corresponding assignment and standard landscape valuation tables (Annex 4, page 34) to each group. Tell the participants: • You have received a standard description of your landscape, which you may want to compare with your results. Both your work and the standard form are imaginary and based on best available knowledge, so none holds the truth. Combining both will only probably give you a richer basis for tomorrow’s exercise; • For tomorrow, please read the assignment carefully, think about it, perhaps discuss it informally over coffee or during the field trip, so that tomorrow you already have some ideas about the planning exercise; • Tomorrow you will review the local policy / development request and apply it to your local nature and development policies and the map; • The result you should come up with after the planning exercise is to describe the process that lead to the decision you made. Make a clear distinction between economic, social and ecological opportunities and constraints and identify the areas where co-benefits can be exploited, with special reference to ecosystem services and wider societal opportunities (such climate change adaptation and mitigation, health, leisure etc.); • The local policy and development requests are (see your assignment sheet): • Urban: plan for better water regulation (urban flood control) and brownfield development; • Coastal: extension of the container terminal. A dock of 20 ha should be added; • Village: a 10 ha public housing project or sports complex; • Rural: regional sustainable energy development; • The precise wording and details are given in the assignment sheet that we circulated. • Any questions? 21 Running the working groups How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Step 6: Develop the planning proposals [60 minutes] The groups should assemble at the same tables as yesterday, with their maps, markers, filled-out forms, instructions and policies. • • • • • • • Welcome back; In the next 60 minutes you will discuss the ideas you thought about individually or in (small) groups to solve the planning challenge that was given to your group yesterday as part of the homework; Each group should appoint a chairperson to lead the discussions; First discuss the planning request in terms of the nature conservation policies. Questions you might ask include: • Are there any likely conflicts between the proposed planning request and the policies you defined in the previous exercise? Then look at the map and discuss locations, their opportunities and constraints in terms of social, economic and ecological values. Questions you might ask include: • Are there locations where the planned development cannot take place, or can take place only if compensation or mitigation is ensured? • Are there combined solutions where compensation, preferably on the basis of ecosystem services, can result in a no net loss solution? • Are there opportunities for nature compensation, restoration or creation? The special focus of this exercise as opposed to a traditional planning decision should be that you adopt the ecosystems approach (see page 25 of the Handbook) and thus give extra attention to: • The landscape as a system, i.e. solutions for local problems might need off-site ecological measures (i.e. creating natural buffers such as wetlands and or natural meanders upstream in order to reduce peak flows and flooding in the low-lying areas); • Opportunities offered by green infrastructure, also to solve problems traditionally addressed by civil engineering. Expected results for this exercise are: • A well-founded and thorough analysis of the planning request taking into account the specificities of the landscape map, the landscape feature values and policies formulated as part of Step 2; • An assessment of the possible impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services and their mitigation and / or compensation; • As your group will be asked to present its planning decision , make sure not only to have a clear planning proposal, but also remember the arguments that led to specific decisions and choices. Once the planning decisions have been made and impacts assessed (trainers should keep track of progress and support groups that don’t get on well), results will be presented and discussed. 22 Running the working groups How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Step 7: Presentation, review and discussion [60 minutes] The trainer explains that for each group one of the other groups is appointed as a stakeholder panel. • • • The aim of this exercise is to train the skills to promote a planning proposals from the nature conservation perspective, also when confronted with the interests of other stakeholders; Each group presents the results of its assignment and how it solved the issue; Each one of the groups (trainer to appoint for example according to the scheme presented below) will act as a stakeholder panel that will comment on the planning decision made by another group; • • • Groups reviewing each other's work: e.g. group 4 acts as stakeholder group reviewing proposal of group 1. The main role of reviewing the proposal and decision is reserved to for stakeholder panel. As part of the exercise, each one of the members of the stakeholder review group will be asked to comment on the presented plan; Others in the room may comment on the basis of individual request. The facilitator moderates the discussion, may also question the presenters and give the floor to anyone wishing to comment; Comments and review should be constructive and lead to a discussion on strengths and weaknesses of the presented results. The focus should not be on the final value of the results but more on the learning process. 23 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Annex 1 The four cases In this section we describe four standard landscape types that can be used as cases in the working groups: • • • • A small historic rural village A natural upland rural area A coastal port facility A large urban area Source: http://www.biodiversityplanningtoolkit.com/ (reproduced with permission of ALGE) 24 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Small historic rural village The small historic rural village is set in a gently rolling agricultural landscape, with some farms, woodlands and wood plantations. It is connected to the nearby town by a regional road which crosses a small stream. The stream is used by migratory fish to reach their spawning grounds in the nearby highlands. There is a disused quarry nearby. Features to include in the landscape map are: • • • • • • • • • • A.1. Arable Wheat, Maize or Potato fields in intensive use A.2. Arable Rye or Flax fields in extensive use A.3. Old growth forest – protected, at least two separate areas A.4. Historic village centre A.5. Modern housing estate, houses with gardens A.6. Small river valley with a stream and semi-natural hay fields A.7. Regional road with natural verges A.8. Bridge over the stream A.9. Hedgerows A.10. Abandoned quarry Optional, up to five additional features: • • • • • A.11. A.12. A.13. A.14. A.15. 25 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Regionally protected natural upland area The upland area is a regionally protected landscape (IUCN category VI: Protected area with sustainable use of natural resources). The stream in the valley is used by migratory fish to spawn. There are rare and protected birds nesting in the highest parts of the uplands. Calcareous meadows are favoured by numerous rare flowers (Orchids) and insects (especially butterflies). It consists of the following main landscape elements: • • • • • • • • • • B.1. Upland calcareous grasslands B.2. Scrubs B.3. Stone walls B.4. Upland hay meadows B.5. Upland stream and damp meadows B.6. Upland broadleaved or mixed forest B.7. Mediaeval castle ruins B.8. Active stone quarry B.9. Golf course B.10. Regional road with natural verges Optional, up to five additional features: • • • • • 26 B.11. B.12 B.13 B.14. B.15. Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Coastal port facility An industrial port with industry is located in the estuary of a river, in the near vicinity of valuable coastal habitats (salt marshes and grazed meadows), and a beach used by locals for tourism and recreation. There is transport infrastructure to and from the port (train and road). These features should be included on the map and in the assessment: • • • • • • • • • • C.1. Coastal lagoon C.2. Salt marsh C.3. Sandy beach C.4. Cliffs C.5. Coastal grazed meadows C.6. Wheat fields C.7. Docks C.8. Container terminal C.9. Coastal dunes C.10. Hedgerows Optional, up to five additional features: • • • • • C.11. C.12. C.13. C.14. C.15. 27 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Large urban area A large urban area is located in the foothills of an upland area. It is a main centre of economic activity, with a business area, an industrial area, a transport hub (railway station, road network), a commercial area and housing. There are some green spaces (urban park, peri-urban green fringe with allotments, tree lined avenues). Around the city are some arable fields that are slowly encroached by urban sprawl. Landscape features to include on the map: • • • • • • • • • • D.1. Train station D.2. Brownfields D.3. Urban park D.4. High rise buildings D.5. Densely built up urban centre D.6. Tree-lined roads D.7. Industrial Estate D.8. Historic centre D.9. Arable fields D.10. Allotments Optional, up to five additional features: • • • • • 28 D.11. D.12. D.13. D.14. D.15. Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Annex 2 Landscape feature valuation form to guide decisions Landscape feature The purpose of the table is to help you as a group to carry out a rapid assessment of your landscape in terms of social, economic and natural benefits and ecosystem services, based on your pooled best judgement. First, write all your landscape features in the first row. Then, fill in the numbers (0 to 4) corresponding to the values in the cells for each landscape feature / benefit combination. Most valuations will be quite straightforward, and you shouldn’t need to discuss them at length (e.g. Old growth forest has very high (4) biodiversity value, “arable field – intensive use” has high (3) economic value and low (1) biodiversity value). Start with the scoring of biodiversity, economic and social value. If time permits, fill out the ecosystem services. Value Biodiversity value Economic value Social value ES – provisioning – food 29 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice ES – provisioning – fuel / fibre ES – regulating – carbon sequestration ES – regulating – clean water ES – regulation – flood control ES – support – nutrient cycling ES – cultural – recreation *Valuation: 0 = nil; 1 = low; 2 = moderate; 3 = high; 4 = very high 30 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Annex 3 Assignments for steps 1 to 3 Assignment sheet for Step 1 – mapping the landscape Objective: The objective of this exercise (steps 1 and 2) is to train your ability to think of the landscape in terms of the various types of benefits it offers to society, and to understand that multiple services and goods can be provided by the same landscape feature (for example a woodland, a park, a field, an industrial estate); • • • • For this you will first jointly draw the landscape according to the instructions and then assess the values or benefits each of the features you included in your landscape. On a flipchart sheet spread out on the table, draw a map in 2D map view or 3D landscape view, as preferred, with 10 landscape features listed on your landscape description. You may also add a few of your own features, but keep the total number under 15. Standard landscape pictures and Google maps are available for inspiration if needed (ask the trainer), but it is better for the group to pool their imagination. Identify each map feature (e.g. broadleaved forest, road, village, wetland etc.) with a number or code to refer to the Landscape feature valuation form; You have 30 minutes for this exercise. Expected result: A map of the landscape with the listed features. 31 How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Annexes Assignment sheet for Step 2 – Evaluating the landscape features • • • • • • Fill out the Landscape feature valuation form based on a rapid valuation using the best judgment of the group. Do not go into details. For a natural full grown forest, biodiversity value is obviously higher than for an industrial estate. It is these differences that should become clear in the form. Describe values in terms of 0=nil, 1= low, 2= moderate, 3= high, 4= very high (5 categories); Try and keep the momentum going in a brainstorm-like way. Do not discuss individual suggestions or ideas in first instance, but just write down all suggestions from the group; If time permits, go through the list and discuss the ecosystem services one by one and agree on the most important services per feature on the list; For example, a forest feature would typically provide fibre and fuel (wood), water regulation, climate mitigation etc.). Refer to the chapter on ecosystem services of the handbook if needed; The rapporteur should keep in mind that he will have to make a five minute presentation on the landscape and its social, economic and ecological values, threats and opportunities of biodiversity and ecosystem services; You have 30 minutes for this exercise. Make a rapid description of each mapped feature on the landscape feature valuation form by assessing: • • • • the biodiversity value (nil, low, moderate, high, very high); the economic value (nil, low, moderate, high, very high); the social value (nil, low, moderate, high, very high); the types of ecosystem services it provides (e.g. water regulation, food production, aesthetic value etc.). See handbook and Annex 4 for examples and explanation, or ask the trainer. Expected result: A list of mapped features and a rapid assessment of their biodiversity, economic and social values described using the landscape feature valuation form. 32 How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Annexes Assignment for Step 3 – formulating the policy context Objective: The objective of this exercise is to train your ability to understand and develop local environmental conservation policies that help you weigh your options in terms of biodiversity and ecosystem services conservation; • • Together with the map, and the assessment of landscape features, these policies will be used to set the context for the planning challenge you will be presented with in the next exercise; Therefore, as part of this exercise, the next step is to define some nature conservation policies you think development plans in your area should comply with; Formulate one to five biodiversity and ecosystem services policies that together must address the following objectives: 1. Protection of biodiversity and ecosystem services; 2. No net loss of biodiversity or ecosystem services: mitigation or compensation of lost biodiversity and ecosystem services; 3. Priority for ecosystem-based solutions in local development plans and projects; 4. Opportunities for or restoration of biodiversity and ecosystem services; 5. Climate change mitigation and adaptation; 6. Communication, education and public participation. • • You have 30 minutes to write one (comprehensive) or up to five (specific) nature-related policies Model policies are available for inspiration. Expected result: A list of local policies for biodiversity conservation planning. 33 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Annex 4 Assignment for Step 6: Developing the planning proposal As part of the previous exercise, you have filled out the “Landscape feature valuation form” and made a rapid assessment of the ecosystem, ecological and social values / benefits of the landscape features. A specific planning request has been formulated for each of the cases. They are presented in the boxes on the following pages. Attached to each assignment you will find a number of tables that present a possible outcome for each landscape feature with an additional column giving some more details about the values assigned (these may differ somewhat from what your group has come up with). You can compare your results with the information given below, or use the values in the tables if you weren’t able to finalise the exercise. On the project website you will find the complete list of species referred to in this exercise with links to pictures and description. The purpose of these tables is to give you some more contextual information (characteristic species, activities and processes) that might be helpful in the planning exercise. By design, the list is illustrative, not comprehensive and therefore does not include some obvious species. If you know these, you can include them yourselves. Note: The information presented in these tables does not reflect the results of a specific survey or assessment. For instance, not all the species occur everywhere but they do generally reflect the habitats as they occur in Western Europe and their likely value. These are not intended for “real” situations, outside the context of this exercise – although they are based on “real” information. 34 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Small historic rural village Assignment sheet for Step 6 – planning proposal Determine the location for a 10 ha development for either a sports facility or a housing estate. If the area is used for a sporting facility, compensation must be made for housing by the construction of a high-rise building closer to the centre of the village. Refer to the mapped landscape features and their values in relation to the nature conservation policies you formulated as part of exercise Steps 1 and 2. The cases of best practice in the handbook (summary) and on the website (full description) can provide some additional inspiration. You have 60 minutes to complete this exercise Expected results: 1. A well-founded choice for the development of the 10 ha, including the choice for its location 2. An assessment of the possible impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services and their mitigation and / or compensation Description of the landscape features A.1. Arable fields intensive use: Wheat, Maize, Potato Biodiversity value low Ploughing, fertilising, spraying, drainage kill many of the species Characteristic species few Birds: Skylark, Yellow Wagtail, Grey Partridge Endangered species (protected) few Mammals: European Hamster Direct economic value high High inputs, high yields Social value moderate Farming is a way of life, some work in farming Ecosystem services – provisioning - food high High yields of corn and potato Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre moderate Straw can be used as biofuel Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- low tion Ploughing leads to oxidation of soil organic matter. There is no perennial vegetation to store carbon either Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Silt, pesticides and fertilisers in run-off and infiltrated water Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate Ploughed fields reduce infiltration, increase run-off that results in flooding downstream Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Nutrient cycles are disrupted through suppression of natural vegetation, low soil biodiversity and artificial fertiliser application Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low People like to walk and cycle through the fields 35 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice A.2. Arable fields extensive use: Rye, Flax Biodiversity value moderate Ploughing, drainage kills some the species, but limited use of fertilisers and pesticides means that characteristic fields species can survive Characteristic species few Plant: Large Venus’s-looking-glass, Cornflower, Common Corncockle; Birds: Skylark, Yellow Wagtail, Grey Partridge, Quail Endangered species (protected) few Birds: Montagu’s Harrier, Hen Harrier; Mammals: European Hamster Direct economic value moderate Low inputs, moderate yields Social value moderate Farming is a way of life, some work in farming Ecosystem services – provisioning - food high High yields of rye Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre high Flax is used as a natural fibre, Straw can be used as biofuel Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- low tion Ploughing leads to oxidation of soil organic matter. There is no perennial vegetation to store carbon either Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Silt in run-off water Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate Ploughed fields reduce infiltration, increase run-off that results in flooding downstream Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Nutrient cycles are disrupted through suppression of natural vegetation, low soil biodiversity and artificial fertiliser application Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate People like to walk and cycle through the fields, especially if they are rich in flowers Biodiversity value Very high Forest largely left unmanaged, well-structured and stratified, high dead wood content Characteristic species many Plants: Pedunculate Oak, Common Hornbeam, May Lily, Herb-Paris; Birds: Great Spotted Woodpecker, Nuthatch, Middle Spotted Woodpecker, Red Kite, Eurasian Golden Oriole, Wood Warbler; Mammals: Badger, Noctule, Leisler’s Bat, Bechstein’s Bat Endangered species (protected) many Plants: Birds Nest Orchid; Insects: Stag Beetle, White Admiral, Tanner; Amphibians: Fire Salamander; Birds: Honey Buzzard; Mammals: Pine Marten Direct economic value low Some wood cutting Social value moderate Some labour in the forestry operations and ranger Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Some people go and collect mushrooms and berries Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Some wood cutting A.3. Old growth forest - protected 36 Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- high tion Much carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water Very high Tree canopy intercepts precipitation, mulch maximises infiltration, most water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Very high Tree canopy intercepts precipitation, mulch maximises infiltration, most water infiltrates to the aquifer and surface run-off is minimised Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling high Nutrient cycles are natural and undisturbed Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high People like to walk and cycle through the woods Annexes moderate Monoculture of introduced conifer species, managed for straight and uniform stems limits the habitat provision for local species Characteristic species few Fungi: Yellow Knight, Jersey Cow Mushroom, Plums-and-Custard; Moths: Pine-Tree Lappet; Plants: Spruce; Birds: Crossbill, Crested Tit Endangered species (protected) few Mammals: Pine Marten Direct economic value high Building wood Social value moderate Some labour in the forestry operations Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Some people go and collect mushrooms and berries Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre high Wood production Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- high tion Much carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water high Tree canopy intercepts precipitation, mulch maximises infiltration, most water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high Tree canopy intercepts precipitation, mulch maximises infiltration, most water infiltrates to the aquifer and surface run-off is minimised Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrient cycles are more or less natural and undisturbed Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate People like to walk and cycle through the woods, although less so in forest plantations Biodiversity value moderate Although this is a human made environment, many species have adapted to this built habitat. Small adaptations (green roofs, natural gardens) can increase the biodiversity value. Old buildings (cracks and crevices) have generally more options for urban wildlife Characteristic species some Plants: Yellow Corydalis, Black Spleenwort, Maidenhair Spleenwort, IvyLeaved Toadflax; Birds: Black Redstart; Common Swift; Endangered species (protected) few Birds: Barn Owl; Mammals: Geoffroy’s Bat, Brown Long-Eared Bat Direct economic value Very high High price of real estate, high value of local retail and tourism Social value high Much labour in retail, municipality etc. Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice A.4. Conifer plantation A.5. Historic village centre Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- nil tion No trees or soil to sequester carbon. Perhaps some carbon stored in the construction wood (beams) Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil Surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by urban pollution. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Nil Surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water. No buffering from vegetation and infiltration Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Nil Nutrients (carbon, sulphur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low Absolute value for tourism recreation is high, but not as a result of an ecosystem service 37 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice A.6. Modern housing estate, houses with gardens Biodiversity value moderate Although this is a human made environment, many species have adapted to this built habitat. Small adaptations (green roofs, natural gardens) can increase the biodiversity value. The buildings themselves offer little opportunities for urban wildlife, but Bat boxes, nest boxes and insect hotels can improve the situation. Gardens offer great opportunities if managed in a biodiversity friendly way Characteristic species some Insects: Small White, Peacock, Swallowtail; Birds: Blackbird, Great Tit, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Greenfinch, Serin, Goldfinch; Mammals: Red Fox, Hedgehog; Endangered species (protected) Nil Mammals: Common Pipistrelle Direct economic value high High price of real estate Social value Very high Important for living Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced, except for insignificant small garden production Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- low tion Some trees and soil to sequester carbon. Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Partial surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration. Some direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by urban pollution. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control low Partial surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration. Some direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by urban pollution. Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Nutrients (carbon, sulfur, nitrogen) are emitted and poorly regulated by the scarce vegetation. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation nil No value for tourism and recreation neither as a result of an ecosystem service or culture or history A.7. Small river valley with a stream and semi-natural hay fields 38 Biodiversity value high Valley and stream largely left unmanaged, well-structured and stream flows freely, although some pollutants in the water (from village and fields). The humid meadows are a very rich and threatened habitat. Characteristic species many Plants: Greater Yellow-Rattle; Insects: Banded Demoiselle, Small PearlBordered Fritillary, Sooty Copper; ; Fish: Stone Loach, Brown Trout; Birds: Grey Wagtail, Common Sandpiper, Sand Martin Endangered species (protected) many Plants: Western Marsh Orchid, Great Burnet, Snake’s Head Fritillary, Pepper Saxifrage, Field Scabious; Insects: Scarce Large Blue; Fish: Freshwater Bullrout, Spined Loach; Birds: Kingfisher, Whinchat, Corncrake Direct economic value low Some hay cutting, and extensive pastures Social value moderate Some labour in the hay cutting Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Some people go and collect mushrooms, and fish in the stream Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre moderate Hay for the animals Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- moderate tion Carbon stored in wet organic peaty soils, and grass roots Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water high Water plants clean the water, infiltration is high in the hay fields Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high The valley floor is extensively used, as semi natural habitat where the river can expand if the waters rise, reducing the peak flow downstream Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling high Nutrient cycles are semi natural and undisturbed Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high Landscape is attractive for recreation and some outdoor sports such as horse riding and canoeing Annexes moderate Although this is a human made environment, some species have adapted to the conditions of the road verges. The verges of the road are managed in an ecological way (mowing once a year). Salt in winter puts stress on some species, but creates special conditions for salt loving species. The road is an ecological barrier and causes many casualties among animals Characteristic species few Plants: Early Scurvygrass, Buck’s Horn Plantain; Insects: Mining Bee, Field Cricket; Birds: Kestrel, Carrion Crow Endangered species (protected) none none Direct economic value Very high The road is an essential part of the regional infrastructure for transport of people and goods Social value high The road is the main access from the village to the town, to the nature and to the coast Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- nil tion No trees or soil to sequester carbon. Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil Surface sealing asphalt reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by traffic (salt, oil, rubber etc.) Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Nil Road hampers natural flow of water through the landscape Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Nil Nutrients (carbon, sulfur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation nil No recreational value linked to an ecosystem service Biodiversity value low Although this is a human made environment, some species have adapted to this built habitat. The bridge is a nesting place for Swallows, Grey Wagtail and bats. The rock structure, and proximity to the water offers a special habitat for rare plants (ferns) Characteristic species few Arthropods: Bridge Spider; Birds: House Martin, Grey Wagtail, Dipper Endangered species (protected) few Plants: Limestone Fern; Mammals: Daubenton’s Bat, Natterer’s Bat Direct economic value Very high The bridge is an essential part of the regional infrastructure for transport of people and goods Social value high The bridge is part of the main access from the village to the town, to the nature and to the coast Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice A.8. Regional road with natural verges A.9. Bridge over the stream Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- nil tion No trees or soil to sequester carbon. Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil Surface sealing asphalt reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by traffic (salt, oil, rubber etc.) Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Nil Bridge hampers natural flow of water through the stream Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Nil Nutrients (carbon, sulfur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation nil No recreational value linked to an ecosystem service 39 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice A.10. Hedgerows Biodiversity value high Important feature in the landscape for biodiversity. A linear natural element that acts as an ecological corridor, allowing plants and animals to move between natural areas. It also buffers some processes in the agricultural landscape (wind break, erosion control etc.) Characteristic species many Plants: Common Hawthorn, Blackberry; Insects: Brown Hairstreak, White-Letter Hairstreak; Birds: Yellowhammer, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat; Mammals: Stoat, Hedgehog, Garden Dormouse Endangered species (protected) several Amphibians: European Tree Frog; Birds: Red-Backed Shrike Direct economic value low Some pruning for biofuels Social value low Some labour to maintain the hedges Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Some people go and collect mushrooms and Blackberries Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Some pruning for biofuels Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- moderate tion Some carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Shrubs intercept precipitation, mulch improves infiltration, water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high The relative role in flood control of a hedgerow in an agricultural landscape is very significant as it interrupts the surface run-off from the fields, controls the erosion Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrient cycles are rather natural and undisturbed Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high Hedgerows add very much to the perception of the landscape by tourists and other visitors Biodiversity value moderate Although this is a human made environment, quite a few species have adapted to this built habitat. The walls and caves of the quarry provide nesting places for birds and bats. The rock structure and proximity to the water offers a special habitat for rare plants (ferns). The floor of the quarry is poorly drained and therefore wet which offers habitat for vegetation and amphibians. The South facing walls create a microclimate for heat and drought loving plants and animals such as reptiles Characteristic species few Amphibians: Edible Frog; Reptiles: Slow Worm; Birds: Grey Wagtail, Black Redstart, Peregrine, Eagle Owl Endangered species (protected) few Amphibians: European Tree Frog, Common Midwife Toad; Reptiles: Common Wall Lizard; Mammals: Greater Mouse-eared Bat, Geoffroy’s Bat, Bechstein’s Bat. Direct economic value low The abandoned quarry has no direct economic value anymore Social value moderate The abandoned quarry is a public space for various sports activities, including mountain biking, motor cross, rock climbing Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate The vegetation that is slowly invading the quarry sequesters some carbon Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low The rocky substrate means that little water can infiltrate and be purified by the soil processes. Some natural purification is provided by the emergent vegetation Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control low Water accumulates on the floor of the quarry, but storage capacity is low because it cannot infiltrate Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Nutrients (carbon, sulfur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate The natural setting, although partially man made and the features of the quarry (see above) make it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation A.11. Abandoned quarry 40 Annexes moderate Farmstead is located in the rural fringes of the village. It is surrounded by fields, meadows, trees and hedges, providing various small habitat pockets for varied wildlife. However, farming activities, such as spraying and the active suppression of ‘infestations’ (rats, insects, birds) by poison and other means reduces the biodiversity value Characteristic species several Birds: White Wagtail, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow, House Martin Barn Swallow, Kestrel, Black Redstart; Mammals: Beech Marten, Hedgehog, Common Vole Endangered species (protected) few Birds: Barn Owl Direct economic value high Main function (besides living) of the farmstead is economic activity Social value high The farmstead provides labour to family and contractors. The farm and farmers have a special role as custodians of the local rural landscape, which adds to the sense of place of the village surroundings Ecosystem services – provisioning - food high Biological processes in the stables (meat) and the activities in the fields that depend on the farmers Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre moderate Manure is potential ingredient for biogas, straw and other rest products from the fields are ingredients for biofuels Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- low tion Some carbon stored barn and building structures, but carbon emissions from animal husbandry Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil No function on the farmstead that purifies the water. Partial surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration. Some direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by farm pollution (manure). Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control low Partial surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration. Some direct runoff to the sewage system of water. Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Natural nutrient cycles are disturbed by concentration of artificial nutrients in the animal feed and the emissions from animal husbandry Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate Farmsteads in the landscape and the rural landscape they support through the custodianship of their owners are often appreciated by the tourists and locals alike. Biodiversity value high Old orchards with high stem fruit trees if managed in an ecological way often harbour a specific rich human dependent biodiversity. Characteristic species many Birds: Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Spotted Flycatcher, Little Owl, Hoopoe, Tree Sparrow; Mammals: Stoat, Hedgehog, Garden Dormouse. Endangered species (protected) several Birds: Wryneck, Hawfinch Direct economic value moderate Labour intensive and low productive form of agricultural land use with lower harvests than modern low stem orchards Social value moderate Labour to maintain the trees and harvest the fruit Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate Important (historic) function to provide essential foods (fruit). Current values are more diverse and include recreation, landscaping and nature conservation. Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Some pruning for biofuels How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice A.12. Farmstead A.12. Old high stem orchard Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- moderate tion Carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Fruit trees intercept precipitation, mulch improves infiltration, water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high Fruit trees and grass cover of the soil interrupts the surface run-off, controls the erosion and improves infiltration, thereby contributing to flood control Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrient cycles are rather natural and undisturbed Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high Old high stem orchards add very much to the perception of the landscape by tourists and other visitors 41 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice A.13. Allotments 42 Biodiversity value high The diverse structure of allotments and high variety of planted species makes these areas as small refuges for local biodiversity. Hedges and small parcels with different flowers, vegetables etc. make an ideal habitat for a wide range of species Characteristic species many Plants: Common Hawthorn, Blackberry; Birds: Yellowhammer, Whitethroat; Mammals: Stoat, Hedgehog, Wood Mouse Endangered species (protected) several Insects: European Mole Cricket; Mammals: Garden Dormouse Direct economic value moderate High informal economic value Social value Very high Allotments are important social places for people to meet, and do highly valued social activities Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate One of the many functions of these areas is the production of food Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Rest material from the kitchen gardens and the pruning of hedges and trees produces biomass that can be used for several purposes Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- moderate tion Some carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Trees, shrubs and vegetables intercept precipitation, mulch improves infiltration, water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high Trees, shrubs and vegetables grass cover of the soil interrupts the surface run-off, controls the erosion and improves infiltration, thereby contributing to flood control Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrient cycles are rather natural and undisturbed, although manure and sometimes low applications of artificial fertiliser interrupt the natural cycle. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate Allotments have most value for the owners / users of the plots, and their close encounter with nature. To outsiders they often have a look of poor management. Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Regionally protected natural upland rural area Assignment sheet for Step 6 – planning proposal A development proposal has been tabled at the municipality: assess options for sustainable energy production: wind farm, solar energy, hydro-electric dam, second generation biofuels (on the basis of cellulose / wood). Refer to the mapped landscape features and their values in relation to the nature conservation policies you formulated as part of Steps 1 and 2. The cases of best practice in the handbook (summary) and on the website (full description) can provide some additional inspiration. You have 60 minutes to complete this exercise Expected results: 1. A well-founded choice for a sustainable energy development proposal, including the choice for the type(s) of energy generation and its / their location; 2. An assessment of the possible impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services and their mitigation and / or compensation; 3. An identification and clear description of the economic, social and ecological win-win opportunities. Description and valuation of the landscape features B.1. Upland calcareous grasslands (protected) Biodiversity value high Herb rich grasslands with a varied structure on dry slightly acid to neutral soils on sunny slopes, with frequent rock outcrops. Very sensitive to nitrogen deposition Characteristic species many Insects: Brown Argus, Scarce Swallowtail; Birds: Whitethroat, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Skylark Endangered species (protected) many Plants: Burnt Orchid, Greater Butterfly Orchid, Quaking-grass, Fragrant Orchid; Insects: Red-underwing Skipper Direct economic value low The main function of these grasslands is conservation of biodiversity and some extensive grazing. Social value moderate The landscapes Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Sheep that graze these grasslands provide some meat Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Hay produced when mowing produces some biomass Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate Herbs and turf contain and sequester some carbon Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate The natural vegetation filters that water, and much of it can infiltrate towards the groundwater. The extensive land use does not pose many pollution problems Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate The natural soil cover promotes a steady infiltration and therefore surface run-off is very limited Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrients cycles are rather natural Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate These herb rich grasslands attract specific types of nature loving tourists but also the general public appreciates the landscape 43 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice B.2. Scrubs Biodiversity value moderate Generally well-structured low vegetation with moderate diversity of shrub species. Characteristic species moderate Birds: Woodlark, Whitethroat, Linnet; Reptiles: Adder, Sand Lizard; Mammals: Red Fox, Pine Marten Endangered species (protected) moderate Reptiles: Grass Snake; Birds: Wryneck, Great Grey Shrike, Ortolan Bunting; Mammals: Hazel Dormouse Direct economic value low Social value low People collect blackberries and mushrooms Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low People collect blackberries and mushrooms Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Scrub management can produce some biomass Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate Carbon accumulation in the scrubs and organic matter of the soils Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate The natural vegetation filters that water, and much of it can infiltrate towards the groundwater. The extensive land use does not pose many pollution problems Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate The natural soil cover promotes a steady infiltration and therefore surface run-off is very limited Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrients cycles are rather natural Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low Generally not so attractive landscape for tourism and recreation Biodiversity value moderate A very special man made ecosystem with a few characteristic species. Important ecological elements in semi natural upland landscapes. Characteristic species low Birds: Wheatear; Mammals: Bats Endangered species (protected) low Reptiles: Common Wall Lizard Direct economic value low No direct economic value (see recreation) Social value moderate Requires quite some maintenance, plays an important role in traditional upland farming Ecosystem services – provisioning - food none Some berries or mushrooms might be associated Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none No biomass production Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration none No biomass and carbon sequestration Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water none No filtering or buffering function Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control low Might impede run off in some places, in others it concentrates the run off leading to higher erosion rates Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling none Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate B.3. Stone walls 44 The stone walls are a characteristic landscape element valued by locals and tourists alike Annexes moderate Generally in extensive use. If managed in an ecological way (few mowing activities per season) herb variety can become quite important. Soils deeper and moister than chalk grasslands Characteristic species moderate Birds: Skylark, Meadow Pipit Endangered species (protected) moderate Insects: Apollo Direct economic value moderate Hay produces fodder, it can also be used as biomass for fuels Social value moderate Management of the hay meadows requires labour force Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate Indirect, hay is fodder for the production of milk and meat Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Low production of biomass for possible use as biofuel Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration low Carbon sequestered in the herbs, but more so in the turf layer and soil organic matter. Carbon is not allowed to accumulate through natural succession Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate The natural vegetation filters that water, and much of it can infiltrate towards the groundwater. The extensive land use does not pose many pollution problems Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate The natural soil cover promotes a steady infiltration and therefore surface run-off is very limited Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrients cycles are rather natural Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate These herb rich grasslands attract specific types of nature loving tourists but also the general public appreciates the landscape How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice B.4. Upland hay meadows B.5. Upland stream and damp meadows (protected) Biodiversity value high Herb rich meadows and vegetation associated to the banks of the stream Characteristic species Insects: Violet Copper; Fish: Brown Trout; Birds: Grey Wagtail, Dipper Endangered species (protected) Insects: Common Club-tail; Fish: Atlantic Salmon; Birds: Kingfisher, Whinchat; Mammals: Water Shrew Direct economic value moderate The damp meadows can be in use as hay meadows and produce some fodder Social value moderate Management of the hay meadows requires labour force Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate Indirect, hay is fodder for the production of milk and meat Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Low production of biomass for possible use as biofuel Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration low Carbon sequestered in the herbs, but more so in the turf layer and soil organic matter.. Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate The natural vegetation filters that water, and much of it can infiltrate towards the groundwater. The extensive land use does not pose many pollution problems. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate The natural soil cover promotes a steady infiltration and therefore surface run-off is very limited. The natural meandering course of the stream slows down the water and the flooded meadows decrease the flood risk downstream. Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrients cycles are rather natural Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate These herb rich grasslands attract specific types of nature loving tourists but also the general public appreciates the landscape. The stream is very much valued for its scenery but also as a place to rest and fish 45 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice B.6. Upland broadleaved forest Biodiversity value Very high Forest largely left unmanaged, well-structured and stratified, high dead wood content Characteristic species many Plants: Pedunculate Oak, Common Hornbeam; Birds: Great Spotted Woodpecker; Mammals: Badger Endangered species (protected) many Plants: Birds Nest Orchid; Insects: Stag Beetle; Birds: Honey Buzzard; Mammals: Pine Marten Direct economic value low Some wood cutting Social value moderate Some labour in the forestry operations and ranger Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Some people go and collect mushrooms and berries Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Some wood cutting Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration high Much carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water Very high Tree canopy intercepts precipitation, mulch maximises infiltration, most water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Very high Tree canopy intercepts precipitation, mulch maximises infiltration, most water infiltrates to the aquifer and surface run-off is minimised Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling high Nutrient cycles are natural and undisturbed Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high People like to walk and cycle through the woods Biodiversity value moderate A very man made cultural ecosystem with a few characteristic species. Important ecological elements can develop. Characteristic species low Birds: Black Redstart Endangered species (protected) low Reptiles: Common Wall Lizard Direct economic value low Small scale tourist industry associated with visits to the site, food and beverage, overnight Social value moderate Requires quite some maintenance, plays an important role in cultural heritage and tourism sector Ecosystem services – provisioning - food none Some berries or mushrooms might be associated Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none No biomass production Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration low No biomass and carbon sequestration of any importance. Trees might be present or left to grow Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Lawns, shrubs and partly sealed surface make infiltration possible and percolation to the ground water Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control low Sealed surface (tracks, roads, pavements) might impede run off in some places, in others it concentrates the run off leading to higher erosion rates Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate B.7. Mediaeval castle ruins 46 Castle ruins are a characteristic historic, cultural and landscape element valued by locals and tourists alike Annexes low How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice B.8. Quarry Although this is a human made environment, quite a few species have adapted to this built habitat. The walls and caves of the quarry provide nesting places for birds and bats. The rock structure, and proximity to the water offers a special habitat for rare plants (ferns). The floor of the quarry is poorly drained and therefore wet which offers habitat for vegetation and amphibians. The South facing walls create a microclimate for heat and drought loving plants and animals such as reptiles. In this active quarry, some places are suitable for biodiversity, but the activities disturb much of the animal life. Characteristic species few Reptiles: Slow Worm; Birds: Grey Wagtail, Black Redstart, Willow Warbler Endangered species (protected) few Amphibians: European Tree Frog; Reptiles: Common Wall Lizard; Birds: Eagle Owl Direct economic value high The active quarry provides labour and local building materials Social value moderate The quarrying provide jobs for locals Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration low The vegetation that is slowly invading disused parts of the quarry sequesters some carbon Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low The rocky substrate means that little water can infiltrate and be purified by the soil processes. Some natural purification is provided by the emergent vegetation Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control low Water accumulates on the floor of the quarry, but storage capacity is low because it cannot infiltrate Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Nutrients (carbon, sulphur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low This is mainly an economic activities area. The damaging of the landscape by the active quarry is not a tourist asset. Biodiversity value moderate Golf courses are large, quiet diverse and structured green spaces where various plants and animals can thrive. The man made gradients have a particular attraction for certain species. Intensive management and use, mean that other species are very limited in their potential use of the area. Characteristic species moderate Birds: White Wagtail, Whitethroat, Yellowhammer, Green Woodpecker; Mammals: Stoat, Common Rabbit, Wood Mouse Endangered species (protected) low Birds: Wryneck Direct economic value high Economic returns of golf courses are high Social value high Golf course management provides jobs and playing the game entertainment Ecosystem services – provisioning - food none Except for the occasional blackberry picking Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Frequent mowing of the lawns and pruning of the shrubs and trees produces some biomass Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate The landscaping of the golf courses often includes shrubs and small stands of wood. Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low The special quality of the lawn requires intense management and pesticides, herbicides and artificial fertilisers are applied. Water filtering to the groundwater carries these pollutants with it. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate The semi natural soil cover (lawns, shrubs, trees) allows much of the precipitation to infiltrate and buffers the water balance Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Near natural nutrient cycle processes are in place, but the intense management of the lawns (greens) Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate The prime function of the golf courses is to provide space for sports and entertainment, but it is elitist. B.9. Golf course 47 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice B.10. Regional road with natural verges 48 Biodiversity value low Although this is a human made environment, some species have adapted to the conditions of the road verges. The verges of the road are managed in an ecological way (mowing once a year). Salt in winter puts stress on some species, but creates special conditions for salt loving species. The road is an ecological barrier and causes many casualties among animals Characteristic species few Birds: Kestrel, Carrion Crow Endangered species (protected) none none Direct economic value Very high The road is an essential part of the regional infrastructure for transport of people and goods Social value high The road is the main access from the village to the town, to the nature and to the coast Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration nil No trees or soil to sequester carbon. Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil Surface sealing asphalt reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by traffic (salt, oil, rubber etc) Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Nil Road hampers natural flow of water through the landscape Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Nil Nutrients (carbon, sulphur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation nil No recreational value linked to an ecosystem service Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Coastal port facility Assignment sheet for Step 6 – planning proposal Development proposal: The local council and port authorities have decided to enlarge the port facilities with a dock and an extra container terminal. The options for the development plan must be formulated and assessed and a decision for planning permission must be issued with an assessment of the impacts and proposals for compensation or mitigation. Refer to the mapped landscape features and their values in relation to the nature conservation policies you formulated as part of Steps 1 and 2. The cases of best practice in the handbook (summary) and on the website (full description) can provide some additional inspiration. You have 60 minutes to complete this exercise Expected results: 1. A well-founded choice for a port development proposal, including the choice for the location; 2. An assessment of the possible impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services and their mitigation and / or compensation; 3. An identification and clear description of the economic, social and ecological win-win opportunities. Description of the landscape features C.1. Coastal lagoon Biodiversity value high Characteristic species Coastal lagoons also often show similar ecological gradients as salt marshes, between shallow and deeper waters, salty, brackish and fresh water. These create excellent conditions for high diversity and high productivity ecosystems. Birds: Little Tern, Common Eider Endangered species (protected) Direct economic value moderate Direct value, some prawn fishing. Indirect value quite much higher: spawning area and nursery for sea fish Social value low Some labour associated with the fishing and management of the site Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate Prawn fishing Ecosystem services – provisioning – fibre, fuel none (Potential for tidal energy) Ecosystem services – regulating - carbon low Little carbon accumulation in coastal lagoon Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Vegetation and plankton filter the waters Ecosystem services – regulating – flood control moderate Coastal lagoon is part of the natural coastal habitats that buffer Ecosystem services – supporting - nutrient cycling Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation 49 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice C.2. Salt marsh Biodiversity value high Characteristic species These areas are partially flooded twice per day. They are highly dynamic habitats with strong gradients (salt sweet, high low, dry wet) offering many niches for specialised communities Plants: Common Glasswort, Common Sea Lavender; Annelids: Lugworm; Molluscs: Blue Mussels Birds: Pied Avocet, Kentish Plover, Oystercatcher, Dunlin Endangered species (protected) Direct economic value moderate Direct economic value is low Social value moderate Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate Ecosystem services – provisioning – fibre, fuel low pEcosystem services – regulating - carbon low There is no significant accumulation of organic matter in these habitats Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate The natural vegetation that is flooded twice per day contribute to filtering pollutants from the flood waters Ecosystem services – regulating – flood control high Natural coastal ecosystems provide an additional barrier against storm surges. They also allow high waters to spread over large areas, thereby reducing the flood amplitude. Salt marshes are visited by people collecting sea vegetables (Common Glasswort) and Lugworm (as bait for fishing). The intertidal parts of salt marshes and waters are very important as spawning grounds and nurseries for sea fish. Ecosystem services – supporting - nutrient cycling high Natural nutrient cycling processes take place in salt marshes Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high These areas attract bird watchers, fishermen and hikers. Biodiversity value low The gradients on the beach and the dynamics of the tides create a varied environment. However, the species richness is quite low. The harsh conditions make that it is a habitat for specialists. Characteristic species Some Fungi: Marram Oyster; Annelids: Lugworm ; Birds: Sanderling Endangered species (protected) some Birds: Kentish Plover, Little Tern Direct economic value Moderate Seasonal high activity with economic value (beach tourism) Social value moderate Beach is a social focal point Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Prawn fishing Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none Low biomass production Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration none Low biomass production Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water none Little biological activity and soil minerals to filter water Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control low Beach and sand bars have a moderate effect on breaking the energy of waves and tides Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling None Little biological activity and soil minerals to filter water Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high Beaches have a high value for recreation C.3. Sandy beach 50 Annexes moderate Cliffs offer a special habitat to nesting seabirds and plants Characteristic species Few Birds: Kittiwake, Gannet Endangered species (protected) Few Birds: Peregrine Direct economic value low Some tourist activity associated with cliffs’ spectacular landscape Social value low Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration nil Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control nil Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice C.4. Cliffs People enjoy rugged coastlines for recreational activities C.5. Coastal grazed meadows Biodiversity value high Characteristic species many Endangered species (protected) many Direct economic value moderate The meadows are grazed by cattle and sheep. Meat from these animals is sought after and of good quality and good price. Social value low Some labour associated with managing the flocks of livestock Fungi; Insects: Queen of Spain Fritillary; Birds: Curlew, Brent Goose, Herring Gull Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate Grazing densities are not high, but the quality of the meat is high Ecosystem services – provisioning – fibre, fuel low Meadows are mowed once a year at the most and produce little hay or biomass Ecosystem services – regulating - carbon moderate Organic matter accumulates in the turf layer, but there is no important production of above-ground biomass. Carbon stored is compensated by the carbon emissions of the livestock. Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Infiltration is good due to the grass turf, but heavy clayey soils are not very permeable, water table is high and often brackish Ecosystem services – regulating – flood control moderate Coastal grazed meadows can also be flooded during infrequent high storm surges, and buffer the high tides Ecosystem services – supporting - nutrient cycling moderate More or less natural nutrient cycling processes take place in salt marshes, although there are additional droppings from livestock Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate Coastal grazed meadows are often part of a wider coastal landscape favoured by cyclists, hikers etc. 51 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice C.6. Arable fields intensive use: Wheat, Maize, Potato Biodiversity value low Ploughing, fertilising, spraying, drainage kill many of the species Characteristic species few Birds: Skylark, Yellow Wagtail, Grey Partridge Endangered species (protected) few Mammals: European Hamster Direct economic value high High inputs, high yields Social value moderate Farming is a way of life, some work in farming Ecosystem services – provisioning - food high High yields of corn and potato Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre moderate Straw can be used as biofuel Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestra- low tion Ploughing leads to oxidation of soil organic matter. There is no perennial vegetation to store carbon either Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Silt, pesticides and fertilisers in run-off and infiltrated water Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate Ploughed fields reduce infiltration, increase run-off that results in flooding downstream Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Nutrient cycles are disrupted through suppression of natural vegetation, low soil biodiversity and artificial fertiliser application Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low People like to walk and cycle through the fields moderate Although the natural coastline in the docks has been replaced by concrete walls, the underwater life is often still quite rich, if pollution is kept to a minimum. The man-made structures often provide additional hiding and fixing places for all kind of underwater creatures, especially in sandy coast environments. C.7. Docks Biodiversity value Characteristic species Birds: Cormorant, Common Eider, Herring Gull Endangered species (protected) 52 Direct economic value Very high The docks are the main entry point of ships that deliver merchandise and support the regional economy. Social value High The port and the docks are providers of local jobs Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Although the docks contain much underwater life, it is generally not caught for human consumption. Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration none Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water none Even though environmental regulations have increased, docks continue to be quite polluted Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control none The natural coast protection by dunes, beaches and salt marshes has been destroyed and replaced by concrete structures. Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling none Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low Some people come to fish or look at the port activities Annexes none Large concrete spaces where biodiversity is kept to a minimum. Interestingly enough these places are also the entry points of so-called aliens species that travel with the merchandise, and sometimes become invasive if they adapt to the local conditions and find not natural predators or competition. Characteristic species few Birds: Black Redstart, Herring Gull, Common Gull; Mammals: Black Rat Endangered species (protected) none Direct economic value Very high In association with the docks these are human ecosystems with a very high economic value The port and the docks are providers of local jobs Social value High Ecosystem services – provisioning - food none Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration none Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water none Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control none Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling none Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation none How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice C.8. Container terminal The sealed surface does not allow any natural water regulation C.9. Coastal dunes Biodiversity value high Northwest Europe has a special role for the conservation of coastal dunes, which are amongst the habitats with highest biodiversity. Biodiversity is however under threat by many pressures (tourism, water management, nutrient deposition etc.). The high dynamics (wind, drift sands) and gradients Characteristic species Many Fungi: Dune Stinkhorn; Marram Oyster; Plants: Sand Couch, Sea Sandwort, Sea Mouse-ear; Insects: Queen of Spain Fritillary,Grey Bush-Cricket; Common European Sand Wasp, Dung Beetle, Dromius notatus; Arachnids: Baryphyma maritimum; Birds: Whitethroat, Nightingale, Linnet, Cuckoo, Wheatear; Mammals: Red Fox, Roe Deer, Stoat Endangered species (protected) Many Plants: Marsh Helleborine, Sea Bindweed, Sea Holly; Birds: Red-backed Shrike Direct economic value moderate In some place the direct economic value is determined by a combination of functions: artificial water infiltration and purification, tourism. Social value high Dunes perform many important soil functions: protection against the sea, source of labour (management, jobs in water purification, tourism) Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low people Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water high Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Moderate Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high Dunes are an essential part of coastal protection. Their dynamics absorb a large part of wave energy. Coastal areas in northwest Europe are very 53 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice C.10. Hedgerows 54 Biodiversity value high Important feature in the landscape for biodiversity. A linear natural element that acts as an ecological corridor, allowing plants and animals to move between natural areas. It also buffers some processes in the agricultural landscape (wind break, erosion control etc) Characteristic species many Plants: Common Hawthorn, Blackberry; Birds: Yellowhammer, Whitethroat, Mammals: Stoat, Hedgehog, Wood Mouse Endangered species (protected) several Amphibians: European Tree Frog; Birds: Red-Backed Shrike Direct economic value low Some pruning for biofuels Social value low Some labour to maintain the hedges Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Some people go and collect mushrooms and Blackberries Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Some pruning for biofuels Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate Some carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Shrubs intercept precipitation, mulch improves infiltration, water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high The relative role in flood control of a hedgerow in an agricultural landscape is very significant as it interrupts the surface run-off from the fields, controls the erosion Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrient cycles are rather natural and undisturbed Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high Hedgerows add very much to the perception of the landscape by tourists and other visitors Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Large urban area Assignment sheet for Step 6 – planning proposal The city council decided to address the current problem of urban flooding. This is linked to the incapacity of the urban sewage system to absorb all the run-off water during high intensity rains. High intensity rains are predicted to increase further as a consequence of climate change. Also the problem finding new uses for brownfields was placed high on the agenda of the city council. Refer to the mapped landscape features and their values in relation to the nature conservation policies you formulated as part of Steps 1 and 2. The cases of best practice in the handbook (summary) and on the website (full description) can provide some additional inspiration. You have 60 minutes to complete this exercise Expected results: 1. A well-founded strategy for urban flood management making use of ecosystem services and the ecosystem approach; 2. An assessment of the possible impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services and their mitigation and / or compensation; 3. An identification and clear description of the economic, social and ecological win-win opportunities. Description of the landscape features D.1. Train station Biodiversity value low Almost entirely built up area with some open spaces where the railway tracks enter the station. Here some plants and insects find a place to live. Uncommon species are often found, as they travel with the train or along the railway tracks. Characteristic species low Insects: Wall Brown; Reptiles: Common Wall Lizard; Birds: Black Redstart, House Sparrow Endangered species (protected) none Direct economic value high Essential element of the public transport infrastructure. Important for the transport of goods and people. Social value high Many people depend on the station and trains to travel for work and leisure. Ecosystem services – provisioning - food none Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration none Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control none Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling none Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation none Largest part of the area is sealed and this natural water regulation processes cannot take place No recreation of cultural value associated to the nature. 55 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice D.2. Brownfields Biodiversity value moderate Brownfields are open spaces in an urban area and as such provide areas where pioneer species can develop and later a more or less natural vegetation succession. They can develop in urban biodiversity oases. However there history as industrial estates often means that soils are polluted. Characteristic species moderate Insects: Peacock; Birds: House Sparrow, Starling, Goldfinch Endangered species (protected) low Insects: Willowherb Hawkmoth Direct economic value low These terrains lay idle awaiting a new use. They have little direct economic value Social value low Brownfields are often considered sloppy and chaotic Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Black berries sometimes appear and are collected by the urban citizens. Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none There is some production and increase of biomass but it is not exploited. Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration low With time the biomass increases and stores increasing quantities of carbon Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low The bare soil slowly covering in pioneer vegetation improves infiltration, but the soils are often polluted and therefore the water percolating to the groundwater too. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate In a largely sealed urban environment, brownfields add to the infiltration of precipitation Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low Although generally considered areas to be avoided, some brownfields have an important nature function in an urban environment. They are used as adventurous playgrounds by the youth, and the natural elements that increasingly appear add to the excitement. Biodiversity value moderate Urban parks are essential green spaces for plants, animals and humans in the urban environment. They attract many species that adapt to the urban environment, which is often less harsh (in terms of climate) than the rural environs, and often provides large quantities of food for those species that can adapt. To those species, the park acts as a refuges, sleeping place, nesting place etc. Characteristic species moderate Plants: Bird-in-a-Bush, May Lily; Fungi: Rooting Bolete; Insects: Speckled Wood; Birds: Great Spotted Woodpecker, Tawny Owl, Robin, Blackbird, Ring-Necked Parakeet Endangered species (protected) few Direct economic value moderate Social value high The parks are essential oases of tranquillity and relative fresh air for the urban dwellers. Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Some berries might sometimes be collected Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low The grass produced by the mowing of the lawns and the wood produced by the pruning and cutting of trees produces small quantities of biomass. Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate Parks are often wooded and the trees can be quite old, sequestering substantial amounts of carbon Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate The relative naturalness of the soil and vegetation clean the water and allow it to infiltrate towards the groundwater. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate In a largely sealed urban environment, brownfields add to the infiltration of precipitation Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation high D.3. Urban park 56 The proximity of a green area of relative naturalness exerts a strong attraction on the urban dwellers, and provides many cultural / (mental) health services to the urban population. Annexes moderate Characteristic species How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Action planning skills in practice D.4. Reservoir These aquatic environments are essentially man-made, but soon invaded by a great variety of water dependent life: insects, fish, birds, plants Insects: Southern Hawker, Blue-tailed Damselfly; Birds: Mallard, Black Headed Gull, Coot Endangered species (protected) Direct economic value moderate Reservoirs are artificial lakes that are generally made for some economic social purpose, such as storage of drinking water, or flood control, or irrigation water. Social value moderate The reservoir plays an important role in the maintenance of the urban water related services Some fishing can occur Ecosystem services – provisioning - food low Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration none Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Depending on the amount of vegetation, the Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate Fluctuating water levels can absorb some water peaks otherwise leading to local flooding Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Low Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate Reservoirs can be landscaped and have an aesthetic semi-natural value next to their socioeconomic function. Biodiversity value low These man-made structures are almost entirely built of concrete. In that they look like cliffs and other rock outcrops to many species (such as Peregrines, doves). Terraces and balconies often have plants that create small habitats. Green roofs are increasingly used to improve the ecology of inner cities. Characteristic species Low Birds: House Sparrow, Black Headed Gull, Kestrel, Swift Endangered species (protected) low Birds: Peregrine Direct economic value Very high Social value high Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre Nil Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration Nil (plants growing on green roofs can sequester some carbon) Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil (plants growing on green roofs can filter rain water) Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Nil (plants growing on green roofs can regulate rain water discharge from the building) Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Nil (plants growing on green roofs can sequester some nutrient) Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation nil (plants growing on green roofs can improve well-being of inhabitants) D.5. High-rise buildings (limited urban farming is possible as part of green roofs) 57 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice D.6. Densely built-up urban centre Biodiversity value moderate Although this is a human made environment, many species have adapted to this built habitat. Small adaptations (green roofs, natural gardens) can increase the biodiversity value. Old buildings (cracks and crevices) have generally more options for urban wildlife (birds, bats, insects) Characteristic species some Plants: Broadleaf Plantain; Arachnids: Zebra Spider; Insects: Red Mason Bee, Drone Fly, Common Blue-tail; Birds: Black Redstart, Jackdaw Endangered species (protected) few Mammals: Common Pipistrelle Direct economic value Very high High price of real estate, high value of local retail Social value high Much labour in retail, municipality etc Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration nil No trees or soil to sequester carbon. Perhaps some carbon stored in the construction wood (beams) Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil Surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by urban pollution. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Nil Surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water. No buffering from vegetation and infiltration Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Nil Nutrients (carbon, sulfur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low D.7. Tree-lined lanes 58 Biodiversity value moderate Important green linear elements in a built up area. They provide habitat to a variety of small animals and a passage way connecting green islands such as gardens and parks. Characteristic species Low Birds: Great Tit, House Sparrow, Starling, Jackdaw, Eurasian Magpie Endangered species (protected) None Direct economic value moderate Real estate in a tree lined lane is worth more than similar real estate far from any green space. Social value high Well being and health are positively influenced by tree lined lanes Ecosystem services – provisioning - food None Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Tree cutting and pruning for maintenance of the trees produces some biomass Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate Carbon stored in the tree trunks Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Polluted rain water partly filtered by the leaves and trees, and also allowed to infiltrate to the soil through stem flow Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate Rain interception helps regulating the water flow to the municipal sewage system Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Some role in the nutrient cycle Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low Relatively high recreational value of the trees in an urban system, but the absolute nature value of tree lines lanes remains low. Annexes none Large concrete spaces where biodiversity is kept to a minimum. few Birds: Black Redstart, Herring Gull, Common Gull; Mammals: Black Rat Endangered species (protected) none Direct economic value Very high These are human ecosystems with a very high economic value The industries on the estate are providers of local jobs Social value High Ecosystem services – provisioning - food none Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre none Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration none Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water none Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control none Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling none Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation none How to plan for Nature? Biodiversity value Characteristic species Action planning skills in practice D.8. Industrial Estate The sealed surface does not allow any natural water regulation D.9. Historic centre Biodiversity value moderate Although this is a human made environment, many species have adapted to this built habitat. Small adaptations (green roofs, natural gardens) can increase the biodiversity value. Old buildings (cracks and crevices) have generally more options for urban wildlife Characteristic species some Birds: Black Redstart Endangered species (protected) few Birds: Barn Owl Direct economic value Very high High price of real estate, high value of local retail and tourism Social value high Much labour in retail, municipality etc Ecosystem services – provisioning - food nil No food is produced Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre nil No fuel or fibre are produced Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration nil No trees or soil to sequester carbon. Perhaps some carbon stored in the construction wood (beams) Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water nil Surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water contaminated by urban pollution. Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control Nil Surface sealing with tiles, asphalt, houses and stone reduces infiltration to almost nothing. Lots of direct runoff to the sewage system of water. No buffering from vegetation and infiltration Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling Nil Nutrients (carbon, sulfur, nitrogen) are emitted but not regulated. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low Absolute value for tourism recreation is high, but not as a result of an ecosystem service 59 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice D.10. Arable fields Biodiversity value low Ploughing, fertilizing, spraying, drainage kill many of the species Characteristic species few Birds: Skylark, Yellow Wagtail, Grey Partridge Endangered species (protected) few Mammals: European Hamster Direct economic value high High inputs, high yields Social value moderate Farming is a way of life, some work in farming Ecosystem services – provisioning - food high High yields of corn and potato Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre moderate Straw can be used as biofuel Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration low Ploughing leads to oxidation of soil organic matter. There is no perennial vegetation to store carbon either Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water low Silt, pesticides and fertilisers in run-off and infiltrated water Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control moderate Ploughed fields reduce infiltration, increase run-off that results in flooding downstream Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling low Nutrient cycles are disrupted through suppression of natural vegetation, low soil biodiversity and artificial fertiliser application Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation low People like to walk and cycle through the fields Biodiversity value high The diverse structure of allotments and high variety of planted species makes these areas as small refuges for local biodiversity. Hedges and small parcels with different flowers, vegetables etc make an ideal habitat for a wide range of species Characteristic species many Plants: Common Hawthorn, Blackberry; Birds: Yellowhammer, Whitethroat; Mammals: Stoat, Hedgehog, Wood Mouse D.11. Allotments 60 Endangered species (protected) several Mammals: Garden Dormouse Direct economic value moderate High informal economic value Social value Very high Allotments are important social places for people to meet, and do highly valued social activities Ecosystem services – provisioning - food moderate One of the many functions of these areas is the production of food Ecosystem services – provisioning – fuel / fibre low Rest material from the kitchen gardens and the pruning of hedges and trees produces biomass that can be used for several purposes Ecosystem services – regulating – carbon sequestration moderate Some carbon stored in wood, roots and soil organic matter Ecosystem services – regulating – clean water moderate Trees, shrubs and vegetables intercept precipitation, mulch improves infiltration, water infiltrates to the aquifer and is purified Ecosystem services – regulation – flood control high Trees, shrubs and vegetables grass cover of the soil interrupts the surface run-off, controls the erosion and improves infiltration, thereby contributing to flood control Ecosystem services – support – nutrient cycling moderate Nutrient cycles are rather natural and undisturbed, although manure and sometimes low applications of artificial fertiliser interrupt the natural cycle. Ecosystem services – cultural - recreation moderate Allotments have most value for the owners / users of the plots, and their close encounter with nature. To outsiders they often have a look of poor management. Summary ecosystem services overview Action planning skills in practice Annex 5 How to plan for Nature? Annexes 61 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice General description of some ecosystem services Farmland provisioning: crops, livestock, energy cultural: recreation, landscape, cultural heritage Biodiversity / regulating: carbon storage, flood management, pollination, improving water, soil quality, air quality Coastal areas provisioning: fish biodiversity / cultural: recreation, landscape and cultural heritage regulating: carbon storage, flood management, improving water quality, improving air quality Urban ecosystems provisioning: food from allotments and gardens, water supply biodiversity / cultural: recreation, landscape and cultural heritage regulating: cooling, noise reduction, flood management, pollination, improving water quality, improving air quality Uplands and grasslands provisioning: energy (wind power), water supply cultural: recreation, landscape and cultural heritage regulating: carbon storage, flood management, pollination, improving water and soil quality Fresh water provisioning: water, fish cultural: recreation, landscape, cultural heritage regulating: flood management, improving water quality Woodlands provisioning: timber, water supply cultural: recreation, landscape and cultural heritage regulating: carbon storage, flood management, noise reduction, improving water, soil and air quality 62 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Annex 6 Examples of local nature conservation policies PLANNING POLICIES General consideration policy In determining applications for planning permission and when considering its own development plans and proposals, the local authority will ensure that effects upon wildlife and geological features are taken into full account. Site protection There will be a presumption against all development which may destroy or adversely affect a national nature reserve, a site of special scientific interest, a local nature reserve and sites of outstanding importance for nature conservation. In cases of development proposals which would destroy or adversely affect sites of importance for nature conservation, the applicant will be required to demonstrate that the benefits of the proposed development exceed the decrease in the nature conservation value of the site and that any such decrease has been kept to a minimum and compensated for by habitat creation or local enhancement elsewhere within the site or local area. The local planning authority will seek to use its relevant powers to enter into agreements to achieve this policy where appropriate. Special areas The local authority recognises the following areas as being of particular importance for nature conservation on account of the quantity and quality of natural features which they contain. Development which would be detrimental to the interest of these natural features will not be permitted. Specific habitat protection The local authority will seek to safeguard [insert relevant habitat type(s)]4 habitats against any development which may destroy or adversely affect their value for nature conservation. Wildlife corridors There will be a presumption against any development which may destroy or impair the integrity of identified wildlife corridors. The local authority will seek all opportunities to consolidate and strengthen wildlife corridors. The local authority will ensure that new development within or adjacent to identified corridors contributes to their operation through appropriate landscaping. 4 E.g. wetland, damp meadow, calcareous dry grassland etc. 63 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Habitat creation The local authority will support proposals which would increase the number, size and diversity of areas of nature conservation interest. Access The local authority will endeavour to ensure that the public has access, including wherever possible access for the disabled, to all areas of nature conservation interest except where such access would be detrimental to the wildlife interests or land use of a specific area. Accessibility The local authority will seek to ensure through the control of development and through support for habitat creation that all residents of the borough have an accessible site of importance for nature conservation within half a kilometre of their homes. Local nature reserves The primary land use of the following sites will be nature conservation. The sites will be the subject of local nature reserve agreements and / or declarations. LOCAL AUTHORITIES ORGANISATIONAL POLICIES Land management In its management of the land the local authority will adopt or require working practices which promote the conservation and enhancement of geological sites and wildlife and which increase the opportunities for wild animals and plants to live in the district/county. Information base The local authority will develop and maintain/assist in the development and maintenance by other organisations (delete as appropriate) of an information base detailing the county's wildlife and geology to provide information on the state of the county's nature conservation resource as a basis for monitoring change and to help in the assessment of proposed and actual changes in land use management. Monitoring The local authority will monitor the success of policies and objectives for nature conservation and will review progress at regular intervals. Education The local authority will ensure the development of practical and theoretical nature conservation in the curricula of schools, colleges and adult education centres. Policy integration The local authority will ensure that nature conservation objectives are always considered as part of other sectorial plans and projects. It will apply the ecosystems approach to their planning and policy development to ensure the best use of biodiversity and ecosystem services in areas such as agriculture (functional agro-biodiversity), public health (green spaces policy, water and air 64 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice purification), water management (flood control) and transport (green infrastructure and ecological networks). PROMOTIONAL POLICIES Promotion The local authority will promote the significance and encourage the appreciation of nature within the municipality. Community involvement The local authority will encourage individuals, groups and organisations to participate in the creation, enhancement, management and interpretation of sites and features of value for nature conservation. Support The local authority will list and communicate regional, national and European funding opportunities and other forms of support (such as joint project development and specific technical advice) for nature based projects and plans. REAL WORLD EXAMPLES OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE POLICIES AND PLANS Green infrastructure Policy - regional East of England Plan (2008) Policy ENV1 of The East of England Plan focuses specifically on green infrastructure. This policy states that Local Development Documents should: • • • Define a multiple hierarchy of green infrastructure, in terms of location, function, size and use levels, based on analysis of natural, historic, cultural and landscape assets, and the identification of areas where additional green infrastructure is required; Require the retention of substantial connected networks of green space in urban, urban fringe and adjacent countryside areas to serve the growing communities in key centres for development and change; and Ensure that policies have regard to the economic and social as well as environmental benefits of green infrastructure assets and protect sites of European or international importance for wildlife. Policy SS8 of the East of England Plan states that targets for the provision of green infrastructure for planned urban extensions should be developed by local authorities and detailed in Local Development Documents (LDDs). 65 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice Green Infrastructure policy - local North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy (2008) One of the key objectives of the North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy is to secure a net gain in green infrastructure. Policy 5 of the Core Spatial Strategy is specific to green infrastructure. The policy states that sub-regional green infrastructure corridors will connect locations of natural and historic heritage, green space, biodiversity or other environmental interest. The policy also states that these corridors will be protected through: • • • Not permitting development that compromises their integrity and therefore that of the overall green infrastructure framework; Using developer contributions to facilitate improvements to their quality and robustness; Investing in enhancement and restoration where the opportunities exist, and the creation of new resources where necessary. Policy 16 of the Spatial Strategy concerns Sustainable Urban Extensions. It states that Master Plans for urban extensions should make provision for a network of green spaces linking the area to the wider green infrastructure framework. Green infrastructure Planning - Sub regional Cambridgeshire Sub Region Green Infrastructure Strategy (2006) In the context of an ambitious housing target for the Cambridgeshire sub-region, a Quality of Life programme was established to develop quality standards for housing developments. An element of this programme was the development of a green infrastructure strategy to address large-scale green infrastructure for the subregion for a 20 year period. The strategy aimed to develop new green infrastructure initiatives as well as supporting those already being pioneered by agencies across the sub-region. The Plan is built upon an analysis of the environmental context of the subregion, which addresses, for example, the water environment, the historic landscape environment, and the climate change implications for the area’s environment. A spatial analysis of existing green infrastructure was carried out at the sub-regional, district and city levels. The use of GIS tools was integral to the mapping of strategic linear corridors. From the evidence base, a vision for the Strategy was then developed building upon both future proposals and current initiatives. The vision addresses funding opportunities, including Section 106 Agreements and the New Parks for People Programme. It also establishes key recommendations to achieving the Strategy’s vision, which are linked into existing projects within the sub-region. Green infrastructure Planning - local Thurrock Green Grid: Green Infrastructure Framework Plan (LUC, 2006) Building on the Thames Gateway Green Grid, this Framework Plan was developed alongside Thurrock’s Open Space and Biodiversity Studies. Together the three studies created a Green Grid Strategy for Thurrock, which sets out the opportunities and priorities for multi-functional green infrastructure within the district for a 15 year period. The Framework Plan assesses existing and 66 Annexes How to plan for Nature? Action planning skills in practice potential elements within Thurrock that contribute to a local Green Grid and the broader green infrastructure network of the district’s urban and rural areas. The Plan aims to identify a vision and set of overarching principles for planning, design and management of green infrastructure in Thurrock. GIS was integral to identifying the spatial nature of green infrastructure assets and opportunities within Thurrock – for example, open space, public rights of way, cycle networks, biodiversity assets and heritage features. The quality and condition of the landscape was also assessed, as was the potential for enhancing or conserving key landscape features. Research was completed into key organisations and existing initiatives that could play a part in promoting and delivering green infrastructure in the district. Suggested Policy – Green Infrastructure Provision for green infrastructure will be sought through the protection and enhancement of natural assets and the creation of new multi-functional areas of green space that afford opportunities for recreation and tourism, public access, education, biodiversity, water management, the protection and enhancement of the local landscape and mitigation of and adaptation to climate change. Green Infrastructure corridors will connect locations of natural heritage, green space, biodiversity or other environmental interest. They will be safeguarded through: a) Not permitting development that compromises their integrity and therefore that of the overall green infrastructure framework; b) Using developer contributions to facilitate improvements to their quality and robustness; c) Investing in appropriate management, enhancement and restoration, and the creation of new resources. Explanatory Text Green Infrastructure is a network of multifunctional green spaces, natural features and environmental management systems which help to provide a natural life support system for people and biodiversity. This network of land and water supports biodiversity, maintains natural and ecological processes, sustains air and water resources, ameliorates adverse effects of climate change and contributes to the health and quality of life of people and communities. By adopting the green infrastructure approach, development schemes may be adapted or designed to provide improved connectivity through the provision of footpaths and cycle routes; space for nature that contributes to the local/sub-regional pattern of connected habitat, and the provision of imaginative recreational facilities that give educational and physical health benefits to local people. From: David Tyldesley and Associates (2008) Guidance on Biodiversity Policies for Local Development Framework Documents in Hampshire. Hampshire Biodiversity Partnership http:// www.hampshirebiodiversity.org.uk/pdf/Other%20reports/Bio%20policies%20for%20LDF.pdf 67 How to plan for Nature www.biodiversityskills.eu
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