Biodiversity Information and Reporting Group (BIRG)

The aim of the Biodiversity Information and Reporting Group (BIRG) is to keep biodiversity information flowing in the South West through by:

• Supporting and maintaining an overview of biodiversity monitoring in the South West;
• Collating, interpreting and reporting on existing biodiversity information;
• Maintaining an overview of South West biodiversity targets;
• Providing information for County groups to use (for example in Local Area Agreements or in Local Strategic Partnerships). This is a key area of work;
• Developing biodiversity indicators where appropriate;
• Reporting on BAP habitats within SNAs;
• Engaging with national Biodiversity Action Reporting System (BARS) development, and support LBAP use of BARS;
• Being aware of wider ecological monitoring programmes, for example coastal monitoring, and ensuring biodiversity is included as appropriate;
• Considering the development of SW BAP species targets.

BIRG membership comprises of representatives of organisations with a direct interest in biodiversity reporting and information, these include statutory agencies, regional bodies, commercial businesses and volunteer organisations.