In addition to growing awareness world-wide of the threats posed by invasive species, recognition is also growing of the potential value and achievability of managing these threats. Many factors need to be considered in determining the feasibility of preventing an alien species from invading, or eradicating or controlling it once it has established.

An early step in actioning any project proposed for support as part of the Cooperative Islands Initiative is to undertake a feasibility study. A small team of specialists with a relevant mix of expertise will visit the island(s) accompanied by people with knowledge of the local situation. Consideration will be given to issues such as possible management approaches and techniques – their appropriateness and efficacy, non-target and flow-on risks, anticipated socio-economic outcomes – as well as biodiversity, and stakeholder expectations and concerns. Feasibility study reports provide an important basis for subsequent decisions about whether to proceed, and to determine priorities for further actions.

Feasibility studies have been initiated and coordinated, in association with other agencies, as part of the Cooperative Islands Initiative including the Cocos Island mammal eradication.