OTHER REGIONAL ACTIVITIES

Introduction

Invasive species management needs to be undertaken on different scales, from local to global. The main thrust of the Cooperative Islands Initiative is to facilitate local projects through the provision of technical information and management advice. Input by the Cooperative Islands Initiative on a regional level have included the SPREP invasive species prevention training course.

Feasibility studies

Invasive species specialists discuss eradication options on-site, Cocos Island, Costa Rica.

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 .

Training and Skill Sharing

SPREP-led training course on IAS in Niue

Photo: Souad Boudjelas

The Cooperative Islands Initiative is focused on providing targeted training opportunities – especially at Demonstration Projects, applying a “Learning by Doing” approach to build local capability. In this way local communities are empowered to deal effectively with their own invasion problems.

Demonstration Projects will involve people from local communities as well as selected individuals from other areas, so that practical skills and perspectives may be disseminated throughout the region. This type of skill sharing will involve small groups or individuals.

Cooperative Islands Initiative staff and collaborators will also have input when required into designing and delivering related training courses such as the SPREP- led training course held in Niue in 2004.

Last Updated 27 May 2008