Integrated Habitat Networks (IHN) Workshop
28th January 2011
LFGNP are to be co-hosting a workshop in mid February with the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) Support Unit and Forest Research to promote work which has recently been completed on the development of Integrated Habitat Network (IHN) Mapping for the Lothians. The mapping forms part of a wider piece for work to roll out IHN across the whole of the CSGN area. The work has been generously funded by LFGNP partner organisations.
The IHN uses the same approach as the earlier Forest Habitat Network survey for Edinburgh and the Lothians, however, in addition to woodland it also covers a range of additional habitats including meadows, wetlands and heathlands. The mapping work will be used to inform land-use decision making and can identify areas that are ecologically connected. It can then be used to target conservation effort in relation to policy and management drivers.
In terms of practical outputs from IHN, there is great potential to use the model as a tool for development master-planning. This is already being undertaken on a practical basis in the Glasgow and the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green (GCVGN) Network area. The outputs of the mapping data can show where poorly conceived development can further fragment habitats and where careful attention must be paid in design. Similarly, well planned green infrastructure associated with development can provide increased functional connectivity of habitats as well as important social benefits for local residents including active travel, health and wellbeing.
The workshop will be held in mid February at a location in Edinburgh. Places have been limited initially to identified policy makers and potential users of IHN. However if you would like to attend and haven’t already been contacted, it might be possible to secure a place at the workshop (subject to capacity). For more information please contact; ian@lfgnp.org.uk
For further information, please contact:
Ian Whitehead
Edinburgh & Lothians Forest Habitat Network Officer
Tel: 0131 445 4025
Email: ian@lfgnp.org.uk
Lothians and Fife will have attractive, biodiverse networks of woodlands, greenspaces and semi natural habitats.
"Managing and expanding green infrastructure will help to create more attractive urban and rural landscapes where people want to live & work..."
Michael Russell MSP