Summary

This popular course, now in its 25th year, provides a field-based introduction to both indigenous and non-native crayfish in the marvellous setting of the Yorkshire Dales. Paul is a life-long conservationist, who is also one of the Institute’s longest serving members. This is also the Institute’s longest running training course, though Paul is keen to stress that the course programme is constantly evolving in this fast-moving topic.

Description

White-clawed crayfish are rapidly disappearing throughout much of the country. This is largely due to the ongoing spread of American signal crayfish and ‘crayfish plague’; though changes in the water environment are also a factor; potentially associated with climate change. The wider negative impacts of invasive non-native crayfish are also becoming increasingly apparent - ecological, fisheries, geomorph and economic.

An authoritative and practical review of crayfish ecology and field methods is presented, including both standing and flowing water sites. The course also includes an authoritative introduction to white-clawed crayfish conservation measures, controlling the spread of invasive non-native crayfish and crayfish plague, and crayfish at development sites.

The content of this training event will contribute towards the development of competencies for survey of white-clawed crayfish, as set out in CIEEM guidance*.

Who Should Attend?

Ecological consultants, local authority ecologists and planners, conservation officers and licensing staff within SNCOs or NGO’s, environmental managers, wardens, rangers.

Knowledge Level

Beginner - Intermediate

Prior Knowledge

No previous Knowledge is required

Learning Outcomes

• Identification and handling skills for both white-clawed and invasive non-natives.
• Practical application of a range of field survey techniques, including ‘crayfish plague’ biosecurity.
• An understanding of the measures to be considered to conserve native crayfish or control invasive non-native species.
• An understanding of the approaches to white-clawed crayfish conservation and invasive species/disease control at development works.
• An understanding of the application and limitations of crayfish/plague eDNA

Refreshments

The course fee includes sessions and evening meals on both Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Transport to field sites is also included.