Neobiota Master Plan for invasive non-native species

BERN HUB | Project LANAT-7

Our goal:

Our aim is to aid the development of a strategy for efficient monitoring and control of invasive alien species in the canton of Bern.

The annual fleabane (Erigeron annuus) is an invasive alien plant that is spreading quickly and causes harm in agriculture and protected areas in particular. Photo: Werner Stirnimann

In a nutshell:

Invasive alien species, also referred to as “neobiota”, can be plants or animals. They primarily make it into Switzerland as a result of global trade. Climate change enables neobiota to take root far away from their places of origin. Neobiota can displace native species, destabilize infrastructure, and hinder agricultural production or forestry.

The project “Neobiota Master Plan” seeks to create a basis for priority setting and definition of effective and affordable methods to tackle invasive alien species in the canton of Bern. So far, interviews have been conducted to identify areas for action which are currently being addressed or may be suitable for future measures. Data on relevant responsibilities and activities have been collected from municipal authorities, and the distribution of neobiota in protected areas has been analyzed.

Prompt, coordinated containment measures pay off. In this way, the population of invasive alien plants can be reduced and controlled over the long term. Graphic: Amt für Abfall, Wasser, Energie und Luft des Kantons Zürich (Office for Waste, Water, Energy and Air of the Canton of Zurich)

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In collaboration with:

Amt für Landwirtschaft und Natur des Kantons Bern (Office for Agriculture and Nature of the Canton of Bern)