The North East Scotland Biological Record Centre (NESBReC) collects and distributes wildlife information in Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen City and Moray. Its main aims are to help spread knowledge of the north east biodiversity, develop understanding of its importance and provide quick and effective access to reliable information on all species, habitats and designated sites.
The North East Scotland Local Biodiversity Action Plan (NELBAP) is a partnership of local authorities, environmental, forestry, farming, land and education agencies, businesses and many individuals involved in biodiversity across North East Scotland. It works towards action to conserve important species and habitats for our benefit and future generations.
Aberdeenshire is well known for the richness of its wildlife. Some areas have been identified as being of international, national or local importance for nature conservation.
International Designations
Natura 2000 is the title for a network of areas designed to conserve natural habitats of species of plants and animals which are rare, endangered or vulnerable in the European Community. The term Natura 2000 comes from the EC Habitats Directive; it symbolises the conservation of precious natural resources for the year 2000 and beyond. The Natura 2000 network includes two designations. These are Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Area (SPA).
Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
Areas classified by the Scottish Executive in accordance with the EC Habitats Directive to ensure that rare, endangered or vulnerable habitats and species of community interest are either maintained at, or restored to, a favourable conservation status.
Special Protection Area (SPA)
Areas classified by the Scottish Executive in accordance with the EC Birds Directive for the purpose of protecting the habitats of rare, threatened or migratory bird species.
Ramsar Sites
Sites containing wetlands of international importance, particularly those containing large numbers of waterfowl. Sites include marshes, fens, peatlands, estuaries, open water and offshore marine areas. Ramsar sites are designated under the Convention of Wetlands of International Importance. The convention was adopted in Ramsar, Iran in 1971 and ratified by the UK Government in 1976.
National Designations
National Nature Reserve (NNR)
These are areas of national or international importance for nature conservation and include some of the most important natural and semi-natural habitats in Great Britain. The main purpose of the management of these areas is the conservation of habitats and species. These sites are designated by Scottish Natural Heritage.
Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
These are areas of land or water which are of special interest by reason of their plants, animals, habitats, rock or landforms or a combination of such features. In Scotland they are designated by Scottish Natural Heritage.
Local Designations
Sites of Interest to Natural Science (SINS)
An area identified by Aberdeenshire Council as being of local importance and representative of a particular type of biological or geological interest.
Local Nature Reserve (LNR)
These areas are set up to protect sites with special local natural interest, and to provide opportunities for people to learn about and enjoy nature. They are designated by Aberdeenshire Council in consultation with Scottish Natural Heritage. There are currently two Local Nature Reserves in Aberdeenshire, at Arnhall Moss, Westhill and Waters of Philorth, Fraserburgh.
Further information on the location of sites covered by the above designations can be obtained from Aberdeenshire Council Planning and Environmental Services, Scottish Natural Heritage or by contacting NESBReC.
