INVASIVE SPEC

from Menai Strait Partnership Forum- Impact Report

Forever

Invasive species can pose a significant th biodiversity and ecology of the Menai Str Wales region as a whole. These species c species for resources, such as food, wate to a loss of biodiversity This can have ca entire ecosystem, such as the disruption o in nutrient cycling, and alterations to phy

Invasive species can also cause economi region. For example, invasive species like crayfish can reduce the abundance of na damage fisheries, leading to a loss of inc rely on these resources. Additionally, inva Japanese Knotweed can cause significan and infrastructure, resulting in costly man restoration efforts.

Climate change can exacerbate the imp species by altering the timing of biologic timing of plant flowering, and changing e conditions This can create new opportun species to establish themselves in the reg native species

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

The Menai Strait and its surrounding areas are at risk from invasive species, which can have significant impacts on the native wildlife and ecology. Invasive species are non-native plants and animals that are introduced to an ecosystem, either intentionally or unintentionally, and can outcompete native species for resources such as food, water, and habitat

One example of an invasive species in the Menai Strait is the Japanese Knotweed, a plant that can grow rapidly and cause damage to buildings, infrastructure, and native vegetation Another example is the American signal crayfish, which can outcompete native crayfish and also carry a disease that is deadly to them.

Invasive species can have a range of negative impacts on the Menai Strait's ecology and economy, including the loss of biodiversity, damage to habitats, and reduced fisheries yields. Additionally, they can increase the cost of management and restoration efforts

The Menai Strait need the community to help with early detection and rapid response programs and the use of biological control methods It is essential to continue monitoring and managing invasive species to protect the native wildlife and preserve the ecological integrity of the Menai Strait for future generations

The Inaugural Menai Strait Partnership Forum: Fostering Collaboration and Sustainability

7 keynote speakers

The Menai Strait Partnership Forum brought over 65 members of the local community together on the 23rd of March to deliver an evening of bilingual expert talks from 7 individuals and organisations. Each shared the potential risk and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the Menai Strait.

The Forum was dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of the Menai Strait for wildlife, recreation, and business. Through collaborative efforts, the Forum worked towards finding ways to address the issues and protect the ecological integrity of the Strait

The belief that a better future for the Menai Strait was everyone ' s business drove the Forum's collective efforts By working together, the Forum aimed to create positive impacts and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Menai Strait for the benefit of all stakeholders.