scottish invasive species initiative

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.

nature scot logo
scottish invasive species initiative logo

The project focuses on both invasive plant and animal species, such as;

  • Japanese Knotweed

  • Giant Hogweed

  • American Skunk Cabbage

  • White Butterbur

  • Himalayan Balsam

  • American Mink

 

White Butterbur

White Butterbur

Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed

Himalayan Balsam

Himalayan Balsam

Giant Hogweed

Giant Hogweed

American Skunk Cabbage

American Skunk Cabbage

American Mink

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.

nature scot logo
scottish invasive species initiative logo
heritage fund logo
salmon sketch subject to copyright s. mckenzie

All materials Copyright © 2021 Skye and Lochalsh Rivers Trust unless otherwise stated. |Charity Reg. No. SC039771 | Co. No. SC344382