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Description
The influence of invasive alien species on natural ecosystems has been recognised as one of the major threats to biodiversity. Biodiversity decreases due to changes in the structural and functional characteristics of particular ecosystems. These changes are often irreversible, and their influence can be mainly observed in rare and endangered types of habitats protected as nature reserves or localities of European importance. The project objective is the elimination of invasive alien plant species (IAS) spreading by the application of Methodological Approaches of the Ministry of the Environment CZ. The Monitoring of the IAS will be applied where the monitoring and rapid IAS control will protect the site. The Effectiveness of IAS control will be applied at localities of IAS massive presence. Application of the methodologies will be used as illustrative examples of a formalized approach to nature protection.
Summary of project results
In the project, we focused on applying both methodological approaches and specific methods for the removal of invasive non-native plants. We tested these methods in three national parks and protected landscape areas in the Czech Republic. Based on our experiences with planning and executing removals, we updated the methodological approach to management planning and effectiveness assessment. The project contributed to the establishment of a unified approach to invasive species management in the Czech Republic through collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment, and the latest findings on the removal of various invasive plant species were put into practice.
Three main objectives were set for the project:
Conduct practical removals of invasive species in national parks and protected landscape areas. This included testing different methods and evaluating their effectiveness under real conditions.
Update the methodologies of the Ministry of the Environment and familiarize nature conservation staff with them. This involved revising existing methodologies based on our practical experiences and developing new recommendations for effective invasive species management.
Raise awareness about the issue of invasive species in the Czech Republic. This was achieved through various communication channels and educational events aimed at engaging both the general public and experts, and encouraging their involvement in nature conservation.
The project thus not only contributed to more effective management of invasive species but also improved methodologies and increased awareness of this important issue across the Czech Republic.
What activities did we carry out within the project?
Removal of invasive species in national parks and protected landscape areas (NP ČS + CHKO: 11 species, approximately 1,120 ha; NP Podyjí: 8 species, approximately 354 ha; NP Šumava: 1 species, approximately 58 ha) – As part of the project, extensive practical removals of invasive species were conducted, leading to significant improvements in the condition of native habitats, particularly concerning biodiversity. These interventions helped restore natural ecosystem functions and improve conditions for native plant and animal species. This outcome is crucial for practical nature conservation and serves as a model for similar future projects.
Invasive plant management methodology – The project led to the unification and updating of the methodological approach to the removal of invasive plant species. New methodologies and recommendations were developed, incorporating modern techniques and best practices for effective management of these species. This methodology will serve nature conservation professionals as a precise and practical guide for protecting areas from the spread of invasive species and their systematic removal. The updated approach was presented at professional meetings and training sessions, where it was discussed with practitioners.
Instructional video describing the method of removing invasive woody plants through drilling and herbicide injection – The video provides a detailed guide on using a specific method that involves drilling woody plants and subsequently injecting them with herbicide. This visual guide is intended not only for nature conservation professionals but also for the general public, who can participate in the removal of these difficult-to-remove invasive species. The video includes demonstrations of procedures, safety instructions, and recommendations for maximum effectiveness.
Instructional leaflet on the removal of invasive woody plants – The leaflet offers clear and comprehensible information on procedures for removing invasive woody plants. It is intended for nature conservation staff, government officials, and municipal authorities, as well as anyone involved in land management and protection. The leaflet includes practical advice, recommended methods, and contact information for expert assistance, contributing to effective management and prevention of the spread of invasive species.
In our project, we focused on the practical removal of invasive non-native species in national parks and protected landscape areas, significantly contributing to the improvement of native habitats and biodiversity. Through extensive removals and the updating of methodologies, we established a unified approach to invasive species management in the Czech Republic. This approach included the development of new guidelines, methods, and educational tools to assist not only nature conservation professionals but also the general public.
Our key activities included practical removals of invasive species, the creation of updated management methodologies, and the production of instructional materials such as videos and leaflets. These efforts enhanced the effectiveness of invasive species control, restored natural ecosystem functions, and provided valuable guidance for future conservation practices.
Our contributions are significant due to their practical impact on nature conservation, offering a model for similar initiatives and increasing awareness and management of invasive species.