Contributed by Claire Miller-RSPB Invasive Species Project

Introduced species, including plants like Mexican thorn, birds like the myna, and insects like the white ant are affecting the lives of people on Ascension and also threatening its unique endemic plants and animals. Funding from the EU has been obtained for a project to look at these issues on all of the UK's Overseas Territories in the South Atlantic, and to take action on those that are identified as priorities. Actions from the project may also include recommendations for changes to current laws, as well as the preparation of information and education materials.

If you would like to be part of a Steering Group that will help to set the priorities for work on Ascension in this project, please contact the Conservation Department on Ext. 6359.  The first meeting of the group is likely to be on 14 and 15 March, and will aim to develop an action plan for future work on Ascension. Participation is open to all  members of the Ascension community.