Protected Sites
Some sites have a special interest and are therefore designated to protect this. In January 2009 there were fourteen Areas of Special Scientific Interest on the Isle of Man, one of which is also a National Nature Reserve. There were also five Bird Sanctuaries and an Area of Special Protection for Birds. Marine Nature Reserves can also be designated, and other areas of interest are noted in the Local Plans and Island Plans for planning purposes. There is also a Wetland of International Importance designated under the Ramsar Convention, at Ballaugh Curragh. This recognises its internationally important character, though its protection relies on its designation as an Area of Special Scientific Interest, which follows the same boundary. Other organisations also protect sites for wildlife, such as Manx National Heritage and the Manx Wildlife Trust.
Areas of Special Scientific Interest
Areas with a special fauna, flora, or geological or physiographical features, may be designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest. This sets up a procedure by which land owners or occupiers consult the department before taking actions that could affect the special interest of a site. The department can then advise and if the action could be detrimental, come to an agreement with the land owner or occupier. A leaflet for landowners, with advice on ASSI issues, can be downloaded from the bottom of this page.
National Nature Reserve
Where a nature reserve is of national importance, it may be declared a National Nature Reserve and byelaws can be made, controlling certain uses of the site. An NNR has been designated on the Ayres, with byelaws to protect the important interest on the site and a Recreation Area, where some of the rules are more relaxed. Click on the Ayres page, to the left for more information.
Bird Sanctuaries
These are areas designated under the Wild Birds Protection Act 1932. They can, by order, be designated as Areas of Special Protection under the Wildlife Act 1990 (as amended).
Areas of Special Protection
Areas of Special Protection can be designated for birds, other animals or plants.
Marine Nature Reserves
The department may designate an area as a Marine Nature Reserve to conserve the marine flora, fauna, or geological or physiographic features, or to provide special opportunities for the study of matters relating to these interests. Such areas can then be managed for those purposes and byelaws introduced. Read about the work going on in our Manx Marine Nature Reserve Project by clicking on the button on the left.
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