Scottish Invasive Species Initiative (SISI)
The Scottish Invasive Species Initiative (SISI) is a 4-year partnership project in Northern Scotland, which aims to control invasive non-native species that impact freshwater fisheries. It is led by NatureScot (formerly Scottish Natural Heritage) and funded by them together with the Heritage Lottery and in-kind support from project partners and volunteers. The core objective is that community knowledge and control of ‘invasives’ developed during the project will continue after the project ends, providing a local, sustainable long-term solution.
Invasive non-native species (INNS) have a significant negative impact on freshwater and riparian environments – they can be responsible for the decline of native species and increase bank erosion. The aim of invasive species management is to halt and control the spread of invasive species, undertake habitat restoration and encourage the return of native wildlife.
The project focuses on both invasive plant and animal species, such as;
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Japanese Knotweed
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Giant Hogweed
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American Skunk Cabbage
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White Butterbur
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Himalayan Balsam
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American Mink
White Butterbur
Japanese Knotweed
Himalayan Balsam
Giant Hogweed
American Skunk Cabbage
American Mink
Originally delivered by WRFT and SWRFT, the Skye and Lochalsh Rivers Trust has taken over the management of the project through to completion in 2022 covering the whole of Wester Ross. Skye is not included in the programme but the community can follow the guidance provided on the SISI site or contact us for advice. Invasive species management work is being led by SISI Project Officer Lorna Brown who can be reached at education@slrt.org.uk
You can find out more about the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative (SISI), the target species, how to get involved and volunteer or keep in touch with progress on the project website and through social media via the links below:
Website: www.invasivespecies.scot
Facebook: Scottish Invasive Species Initiative
Twitter: @SISI_project
Instagram: scot_invasive_sps_initiative
Photos for this page have been graciously provided by Lorna Brown and SISI.
