WEBINAR Rewarding farmland insect diversity through result based agri environment schem | ||
Speakers : Prof. Dolores Byrne Institute of Technology Sligo – ATU Department of Environmental Science | ||
Hosting University Atlantic Technological University, Ireland | ||
WEBINAR DESCRIPTION Results-based agri-environment schemes pay farmers for the quality of biodiversity they produce on their farms, a concept which has been embraced by the EU through the latest Common Agricultural Policy ambitions. Fields entered into the schemes are scored from 0 (very limited biodiversity) to 10 (highest potential biodiversity) – this score is based on a number of indicators, including the presence and cover of vascular plants. Our work in the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) shows there is a direct link between the diversity of vascular plants in pastures with butterflies and other insect groups, notably ground beetles. Through scheme training, farmer’s also understand the ecological ‘product’ they are providing, and their knowledge is integral to the success of the schemes and enhancing biodiversity. | ||
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