⚠️ Archived Content
This page relates to the 2019–2024 National Park Management Plan, which is now archived. For the latest aims and objectives, please visit the 2025–30 Management Plan landing page.
Support land managers to create more resilient landscapes through the development and implementation of strategies that reduce the risk and spread of invasive non-native species, and respond to threats from pests and diseases that threaten the environment of the National Park.
How the local partners are doing on this objective
Progress: The Yorkshire Dales Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) Working Group has disbanded. As part of the Nature Recovery Plan for the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Yorkshire Dales Biodiversity Forum is in the process of determining the Invasive Non-Native Species that are most threatening wildlife in the National Park.
Press Releases & related articles:
16 August 2021 – Kicking to see what’s alive: wildlife surveys carried out
Rationale: Invasive non-native species, pests and diseases are one of the biggest threats to biodiversity worldwide, and to the biodiversity of the National Park. Current examples include: the impacts of chalara (ash dieback) on upland ash woodlands; the impacts of grey squirrel on red squirrel populations; the near-wiping out of native crayfish by American Signal crayfish; and the spread of Himalayan Balsam. Where practical, reducing and managing the potential impacts of invasive non-native species (through prevention of spread and strategic action) will assist in achieving many of the other objectives in this Plan.
Lead partner: Yorkshire Dales Biosecurity & INNS Working Group;
Supporting partners: Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority; Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust; Ribble Rivers Trust; Environment Agency; Natural England; Yorkshire Water; Yorkshire Wildlife Trust; Forestry Commission; National Trust;
Further information: YDNPA – Invasive Species ‘Stop the spread’;
Cost over 5 years:
Funding shortfall:
Related objectives: A1; C1; C2; C3; F6
Ecosystem services: Biodiversity; Regulating pests; Genetic diversity; Climate regulation; Timber provision
Trade-offs: None
Baseline: No strategies in place. Ad hoc activity on some species (e.g. Japanese Knotweed)