The SPA & Ramsar (Avian) Scientific Working Group (SPAR
SWG) was established by Defra in November 2001 to provide
scientific advice on matters relating to the UK Special Protection
Area network. Matters relating to avian elements of the
Ramsar network were added to the Group's remit in January
2004.
Abernethy Forest SPA © Helen Baker,
JNCCThe SPAR SWG comprises representatives from government, the
statutory country conservation agencies and non-government
organisations from the conservation, land use and marine
sectors.
The Group was established at the same time as the UK SPA
network review [-
SPA Review -] was published. The culmination of
eight years of work, the review is a comprehensive assessment of
the status of the UK network of SPAs in the early 1990s. Both the
review process and consultations on the SPA network have
highlighted the need for additional development of the network - an
issue that will be addressed by the SPAR Scientific Working
Group.
The working practice of the Group is set out in its revised
Terms of Reference
(pdf 42Kb), which also include an overview of the issues identified
for consideration. It normally meets three times per year and is
supported by a
provided by JNCC.
The Secertariat organises meetings, produces minutes and Annual
Reports, and maintains an up-to-date membership list.
Papers and minutes relating to the meetings of the SPAR SWG
are available as follows: