tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1046528403862740512024-02-06T23:34:10.300-08:00Scottish Gamekeepers Association NewsScottish Gamekeepers Association news page. SGA manages Scotland wild places and unites gamekeepers, stalkers, ghillies, wildlife managers and rangers.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger606125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-59972453906308945412022-02-01T02:21:00.009-08:002022-02-01T02:21:51.458-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 31 January 2022<p><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Case
Updates England</span></b></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the disease control zones surrounding the following premises, the
3km Protection Zones have ended and the 10km Surveillance Zones have been
revoked. Local movement restrictions have now been removed around the
premises but the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu#AIPZ"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ)</span></a> measures remain in place.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="circle">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#aspatria"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Aspatria, Allerdale,
Cumbria</span></a> (effective from 20:45 on the 31 January 2021)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#highworth"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Highworth, Swindon,
Wiltshire</span></a> (effective from 21:00 on the 29 January 2022)</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the disease control zones surrounding the premises <span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#tutbury"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Tutbury, East
Staffordshire, Staffordshire</span></a></span> the 10km Surveillance Zone
has been revoked</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">(effective from 21:00 on the 29 January
2022)</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. Local movement restrictions have now been removed
around the premises but the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu#AIPZ"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ)</span></a> measures remain in place.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can
check where disease control zones are located in GB and if they are in zone on
the </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdefra.maps.arcgis.com%2Fapps%2Fwebappviewer%2Findex.html%3Fid%3D8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=6AhGbeM1sKzHIotqnq2jWOYP86RRAkh64xIu7RzK5TQ%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Animal and Plant Health Agency
(APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">, and in Northern
Ireland on </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.daera-ni.gov.uk%2Fservices%2Favian-influenza-map-viewer&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=qc2pP2m1M39FrhPLmec1dype3uXbQzcIi0RZI%2FGNzys%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further
information on these cases and details of the measures that apply in the
disease control zones </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">currently in force</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">England:
<a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=KYkxBZWjIwxgD8SFlH8n7jkPBgylJp0X%2FX%2BScluXdxU%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are <span style="color: black;">multiple
</span>overlapping zones.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Wales<b>:
</b><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgov.wales%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=Gd%2BJtd%2FgVL%2F%2FHHnHg7m%2BzK9kcSxPVAht8Owj0ptzoRQ%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Scotland<b>:
</b><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.scot%2Fpublications%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu%2F&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=qL8OfuDvIAbkK6e22uycx1lXgq0j78R8GUJGuGgiAS8%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Northern
Ireland: <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.daera-ni.gov.uk%2Farticles%2Favian-influenza-ai&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=Q1yz2JCuVzxHgP3%2F9lXsIHpb%2B%2BU6VmDBHQlb62c1qiU%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and
updated zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert
subscription service further details can be found at </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Fapha-alert-subscription-service&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=j22sNAWwx5irK%2FvjpGNGx%2FUv3GDxE4BRuZB13BnQqhQ%3D&reserved=0"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Outbreak
Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">In
summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak on the </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">26 October 2021, <span style="color: black;">88 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the UK:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England:
74 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland:
6 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales:
3 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the
largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza (prior to this the largest number
of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Bird keepers
are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> <b>See </b></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgov.uk%2Fbird-flu&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=0lLe6K9G0%2Fzm0EETc6gSauZ0BZHaKLMPKzIO86mC9zw%3D&reserved=0"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">gov.uk/bird-flu</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards
of biosecurity must be maintained as good practice for the health of your bird.
Good biosecurity is an essential defence against diseases such as avian
influenza and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must
keep a close watch on their birds for any signs of disease, and seek prompt
advice from a vet if they have any concerns. Clinical signs indicative of avian
influenza must be reported in England to Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000
200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fgovernment%2Forganisations%2Fanimal-and-plant-health-agency%2Fabout%2Faccess-and-opening%23scotland-field-service-offices&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7Cd13cae79dade48ed4e1c08d9e2a6da4d%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637790028559252370%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=psw%2BXq2B4TQI2qkGt0k82BVSUOoi9TmqMFnpSocMPFc%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.
Failure to do so is an offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-38297578844280713912022-01-27T01:26:00.007-08:002022-01-27T01:26:47.696-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 26 January 2022<p> <b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">New
Case England</span></b></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in birds at premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#whitby"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Whitby, Scarborough,
North Yorkshire</span></a> on 26 January 2022. A 3km Captive Bird
(Monitoring) Controlled Zone has been put in place around the premises
(zone in force from 19:00 on the 26 January 2022). All birds on the
infected premises will be humanely culled.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Case
Updates England</span></b></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the disease control zones surrounding a premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#babergh"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Sudbury, Babergh, Suffolk</span></a>,
the 10km Surveillance Zone has been revoked (effective from 19:00 on the
26 January 2022). Local movement restrictions have now been removed but
the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu#AIPZ"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ)</span></a> measures remain in force in this area.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can
check where disease control zones are located in GB and if they are in zone on
the </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdefra.maps.arcgis.com%2Fapps%2Fwebappviewer%2Findex.html%3Fid%3D8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939053930%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=qroVVbO00RtQW5vjg8htfhZAEnRpqCmzX6xt%2BjuDza4%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Animal and Plant Health Agency
(APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">, and in Northern
Ireland on </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.daera-ni.gov.uk%2Fservices%2Favian-influenza-map-viewer&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939053930%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=DznL%2FypoZF%2B36m%2FqWzW8fRV211FDU8hgoX9EQkvz1KQ%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further
information on these cases and details of the measures that apply in the
disease control zones </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">currently in force</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">England:
<a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939053930%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=o%2FPeLyECnXJ2JzAHkAr42InH4M19D%2FnBNoNE7eDqfyI%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are <span style="color: black;">multiple
</span>overlapping zones.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Wales<b>:
</b><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgov.wales%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939053930%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=2sQWAuV%2Fu5iz8xCX8bGFkJGl4rpzWGPaNwiGnQEd968%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Scotland<b>:
</b><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.scot%2Fpublications%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu%2F&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939053930%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=qYfhaj4yQN0ZG3pH9lkmUyK6sdge4twQBSni%2BFQwk6I%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Northern
Ireland: <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.daera-ni.gov.uk%2Farticles%2Favian-influenza-ai&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939053930%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=hqo54lPZQDy3ECBtaAJhTioVrGjgI%2FkgthRT%2F2Y%2BJTs%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and
updated zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert
subscription service further details can be found at </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Fapha-alert-subscription-service&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939209523%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=wlHM%2Ffv4UkOmylkLxVAWXAFZybch%2BZXPE3hCeEw%2FtW4%3D&reserved=0"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Outbreak
Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">In
summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak on the </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">26 October 2021, <span style="color: black;">86 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the UK:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England:
72 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland:
6 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales:
3 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the
largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza (prior to this the largest number
of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Bird keepers
are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> <b>See </b></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgov.uk%2Fbird-flu&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939209523%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=YVxMBOIvJMhACYl3dz290RxdGolZpUsF97pSnjxCwJ4%3D&reserved=0"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">gov.uk/bird-flu</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards
of biosecurity must be maintained as good practice for the health of your bird.
Good biosecurity is an essential defence against diseases such as avian
influenza and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must
keep a close watch on their birds for any signs of disease, and seek prompt
advice from a vet if they have any concerns. Clinical signs indicative of avian
influenza must be reported in England to Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000
200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fgovernment%2Forganisations%2Fanimal-and-plant-health-agency%2Fabout%2Faccess-and-opening%23scotland-field-service-offices&data=04%7C01%7CEDC.outbreak.comms%40defra.gov.uk%7Ccfdcabdad3a64544c83008d9e043feea%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637787404939209523%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=Xkcf91C5Mbf6q08ipW2jU7aVxbV8iTMfxooo9Zytm08%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.
Failure to do so is an offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-19228587554897354992022-01-26T02:34:00.005-08:002022-01-26T02:34:47.177-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 25 January 2022<p> <b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">New
Cases England</span></b></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in birds at premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#byker"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Byker, Newcastle Upon
Tyne, Tyne & Wear, England</span></a> on the 25 January 2022. A <b>3km
Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone</b> has been put in place
around the premises (zones in force from 10:00 on the 25 January 2022).
All poultry on the premises will be humanely culled.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoListParagraph"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Case Updates England</span></b></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Following successful completion of disease
control activities and surveillance within the disease control zones
around a premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#tutbury"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Tutbury, East
Staffordshire, Staffordshire, England</span></a>, the 3km Protection Zone
declared on the 2 December 2021 has ended, and the area has merged with
the 10km Surveillance Zone. A <b>10km Surveillance Zone</b> remains in
force in this area (effective from 15:00 on the 25 January 2022)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Following successful completion of disease
control activities and surveillance within the disease control zones
surrounding a premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#clifford"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Clifford, Hereford and
South Herefordshire, Herefordshire, England</span></a>, the 3km Protection
Zone has ended and the 10km Surveillance Zone has been revoked. For the
areas that crossed the border into Wales, the 3km Protection Zone, 10km
Surveillance Zone and 10km Restricted Zone have also been removed. Local
movement restrictions have now been removed (effective from 17:00 on the
25 January 2022) however the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ)
measures remain in force for this area.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can
check where disease control zones are located in GB and if they are in zone on
the </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdefra.maps.arcgis.com%2Fapps%2Fwebappviewer%2Findex.html%3Fid%3D8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=lSjViKajrMEGEVZ2eHSZXV1OtbR8qtV7z8oNz9BVJdM%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Animal and Plant Health Agency
(APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">, and in Northern
Ireland on </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.daera-ni.gov.uk%2Fservices%2Favian-influenza-map-viewer&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=Q0AuL2tWZK73d3eM%2BIFld9EoDnu8kzipwFNq5rbk0WE%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further
information on these cases and details of the measures that apply in the
disease control zones </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">currently in force</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">England:
<a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are <span style="color: black;">multiple
</span>overlapping zones.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Wales<b>:
</b><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgov.wales%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=j05IOtL4GFncNQPMVhoYp6NiZK0p9EBHMa3O0OvqhZM%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Scotland<b>:
</b><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.scot%2Fpublications%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu%2F&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=%2FKhpygLLuQrIGJWaWsjQBVgZ%2B4It%2FMlSYPHcqDPRFJ0%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Northern
Ireland: <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.daera-ni.gov.uk%2Farticles%2Favian-influenza-ai&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=znbqTSE%2FgLccXviXnFlR63tYqR5YelJR4s3BPfcZK68%3D&reserved=0"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and
updated zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert
subscription service further details can be found at </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Fapha-alert-subscription-service&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=yRezWE94VWulwbXk4jPblAzP0gj1rT4Ml3reYBF9V2k%3D&reserved=0"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Outbreak
Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">In
summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak on the </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">26 October 2021, <span style="color: black;">85 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the UK:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England:
71 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland:
6 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales:
3 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the
largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza (prior to this the largest number
of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Bird keepers
are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> <b>See </b></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgov.uk%2Fbird-flu&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=xrxWx0Qzbqh574fCRAoQFbq6BjhEI90rbOzYk2T1Sj8%3D&reserved=0"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">gov.uk/bird-flu</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards
of biosecurity must be maintained as good practice for the health of your bird.
Good biosecurity is an essential defence against diseases such as avian
influenza and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must
keep a close watch on their birds for any signs of disease, and seek prompt
advice from a vet if they have any concerns. Clinical signs indicative of avian
influenza must be reported in England to Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000
200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fgovernment%2Forganisations%2Fanimal-and-plant-health-agency%2Fabout%2Faccess-and-opening%23scotland-field-service-offices&data=04%7C01%7CLara.Harrup%40defra.gov.uk%7C00a49b307b9f4a2bd35008d9ddeb40da%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637784824801204054%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=ez4Nmn%2Bz4cV0R5G3yCjFwLSKr%2BbpeI%2BNbtnZJ%2B3Hlfw%3D&reserved=0" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.
Failure to do so is an offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-76376467655591550052022-01-21T01:57:00.006-08:002022-01-21T01:57:36.128-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 20 January 2022<p> <b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">New
Case in England</span></b></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in birds at a
premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#rossonwye"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Ross-on-Wye, Hereford and
South Herefordshire, Herefordshire</span></a> on the 20 January 2022. A
3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been put in place
around the premises (zones in force from 20:00 20 January 2022). All birds
on the infected premises will be humanely culled.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Case
Updates</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Following successful completion of disease control
activities and surveillance within the disease control zones surrounding the
premises the 3km Protection Zone has ended, and the relevant areas have been
merged with the 10km Surveillance Zone. A 10km Surveillance Zone remains in
force surrounding these premises.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="circle">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="circle">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: -.5in; mso-list: l2 level3 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#babergh"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Sudbury, Babergh, South
Suffolk, England</span></a> (zones merged 20 January 2022)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: -.5in; mso-list: l2 level3 lfo2;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england#mouldsworth"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">near Mouldsworth, Cheshire
West and Chester, Cheshire, England</span></a> (zones merged 18 January
2022)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
</ul>
<p class="MsoListParagraph"><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Following successful completion of disease control
activities and surveillance within the zones surrounding the premises remaining
disease control zones surrounding the following premises have been revoked.
Local movement restrictions have now been removed but the Avian Influenza
Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures remain in place.</span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="circle">
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="circle">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: -.5in; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo3;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">near Gretna, Dumfriesshire, Dumfries and
Galloway, Scotland (revoked 17 January 2022)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: -.5in; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo3;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">near Annan, Dumfriesshire, Dumfries and
Galloway, Scotland (revoked 16 January 2022)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: -.5in; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo3;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">near Leominster, North Herefordshire,
Herefordshire (revoked 14 January 2022)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: -.5in; mso-list: l1 level3 lfo3;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">near Moffat, Dumfriesshire, Dumfries and Galloway,
Scotland (revoked 14 January 2022)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can
check where disease control zones are located in GB and if they are in zone on
the </span><a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Animal and Plant Health Agency
(APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">, and in Northern
Ireland on <a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further
information on these cases and details of the measures that apply in the
disease control zones </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">currently in force</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">England:
<a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are <span style="color: black;">multiple
</span>overlapping zones.<o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Wales<b>:
</b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Scotland<b>:
</b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Northern
Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and
updated zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert
subscription service further details can be found at </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Outbreak
Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">In
summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak on the </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">26 October 2021, <span style="color: black;">82 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the UK:<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England:
69 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland:
5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales:
3 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraph" style="color: black; margin-left: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the
largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza (prior to this the largest number
of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Bird keepers
are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> <b>See <a href="https://gov.uk/bird-flu"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">gov.uk/bird-flu</span></a>
for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards
of biosecurity must be maintained as good practice for the health of your bird.
Good biosecurity is an essential defence against diseases such as avian
influenza and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must
keep a close watch on their birds for any signs of disease, and seek prompt
advice from a vet if they have any concerns. Clinical signs indicative of avian
influenza must be reported in England to Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000
200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening#scotland-field-service-offices" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.
Failure to do so is an offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-45693953023584528082022-01-21T01:55:00.001-08:002022-01-21T01:55:18.239-08:00Avian influenza outbreak - specific advice to all involved with gamebirds in Scotland<p><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">As you will be aware, due to an increased risk of incursion of
avian influenza (bird flu) for wild birds, gamebirds, poultry and other captive
birds within the UK, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) was declared by
Scottish Ministers, covering the whole of Scotland, on 03 November 2021.
Similar legislation was enacted across all UK administrations.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Subsequently, </span><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-prevention-zone-including-housing-november-2021/"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">measures</span></a><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> that made it a legal
requirement for all poultry and captive birds (with the exception of game birds
kept for restocking) to be housed or otherwise kept separate from wild
birds, and for all bird keepers to follow strict biosecurity measures in order
to contain and eradicate the disease, were implemented on 29 November 2021.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Following feedback from stakeholders and government colleagues,
and in light of recent outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza within
the UK, we recognised a need to issue the </span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">following important
outbreak-specific advice to all involved with gamebirds in Scotland.</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Biosecurity</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/biosecurity-practices-for-animal-health-guidance/"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Biosecurity</span></a><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">means
simple procedures or steps you can take to prevent disease. The risk of bird
flu in the UK from wild birds never disappears completely and so good
biosecurity should be incorporated into daily practice, but <b>during an
outbreak period it is vital to protect your birds</b>. An outbreak of
bird flu at any size game or poultry establishment can have a
profound impact on the commercial game and poultry
sector through both the introduction of movement restrictions
and temporary loss of exports with other countries.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 21.0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This </span><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1036185/biosecurity-poultry-guide.pdf"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">biosecurity
guidance</span></a></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> includes details of measures that
should be taken in the current </span><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-prevention-zone-including-housing-november-2021/"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Avian
Influenza Prevention Zone</span></a></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> and provides specific advice for
game bird keepers. Complete the </span><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu#biosecurity"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">biosecurity
self-assessment</span></a></span><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">checklist to
ensure you are complying with the mandatory biosecurity requirements.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Legal Requirement<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The legal requirement to house all poultry or captive birds in
the UK </span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">includes caught-up gamebirds</b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. The aim of this requirement is to
segregate poultry and captive birds, such as caught up gamebirds, from wild
birds as much as is possible to reduce the risk of infection. The exception to
this requirement are game birds </span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">kept for restocking supplies</b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. Although
it is important to note that these birds must be supplied with feed and water
either indoors or under a shelter which prevents contact by wild birds with the
feed and water supplied.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Bird Gatherings</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">A further biosecurity measure integral to the legal restrictions
applied, and key to reducing the risk of onward spread, is the amendment of the
</span><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-bird-gathering-general-licence/"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">General Licence permitting
bird gatherings</span></a><b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> </span></b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">(to prohibit gatherings involving kept <i>galliformes</i>
(chickens, turkeys, pheasants, partridges, quails and other land fowl) and kept
<i>anseriformes</i>, (ducks, geese, swans and other water fowl). It is
important to stress that<b> </b>these<b> </b>bird gathering events include the <b>catching-up
of wild game birds</b>. There are, however, exceptions to this and the
following are <b>not</b> considered to be gatherings and do not, therefore,
need to be licensed:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: 30.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">catching-up of wild game birds (where
they have come from multiple locations but are then moved to a <b>single
location</b> afterwards, and remain there for breeding or other purposes)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: 30.0pt;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-left: 30.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">birds which are brought together from
different locations, but where no birds move off the premises <b>within 13 days
of the last bird arriving on the premises</b>;<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">It should be noted, however, that there is some risk that birds
gathered from the wild could be infected with avian influenza, and by gathering
them up and bringing them back to a farm/shoot/estate, this could infect the
birds that are already there. Caught up pheasants are defined as
poultry. Therefore, if disease is confirmed, this would result in a new
infected premises. It is on this basis that</span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> <i>all catching up activities
are not recommended whilst the AIPZ measures are still in effect.</i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This recommendation holds even greater weight for premises that
fall within </span><span style="color: #595959; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">geographical
areas deemed at particular high risk </span><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">to avian influenza (</span><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/pages/higher-risk-areas-hras/"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">HRAs</span></a><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">). Check if your premises
falls within one of these areas by using our </span><a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">interactive map</span></a><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> (please note the ‘layers’
functionality button top right on this interactive screen to add HRAs to the
map).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Register Your Birds</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">There is a legal requirement for all poultry keepers with 50 or
more birds to register their premises on the </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/poultry-including-game-birds-registration-rules-and-forms" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Great
Britain Poultry Register</a><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> – this includes game keepers. The voluntary
registration of premises with fewer than 50 birds is highly encouraged -
particularly if you are in, or close to, a higher risk area.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">General Advice</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">It should be noted that this is general advice for those whose </span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">activities
do not fall within Protection and Surveillance Zones</b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> associated with an
outbreak premises, within which specific legal regulations apply.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">It is also worth noting that catching up gamebirds is </span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">only
legal until 28th February in Scotland.</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Avian influenza is a notifiable disease by law. If you find a
single dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks), a single dead bird of prey,
or five or more dead wild birds of any other species (including gulls) at the
same place at the same time, you should report them to Defra’s GB-wide
telephone helpline: </span><b style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">03459 33 55 77 (please select option 7).</b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> It is
advisable that you do not touch these birds.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Know the </span><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/pages/clinical-signs/"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">signs of bird flu in kept
birds</span></a><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,
which include loss of appetite, swollen heads, respiratory problems and
multiple unexpected deaths.</span> <span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">If you suspect any type of avian influenza in poultry or captive
birds you must report it immediately by contacting your<b> </b></span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening#scotland-field-service-offices"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">local APHA office</span></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">.</span></span><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><b><span style="color: #404040; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Failure to do so is an
offence.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Bird flu and its consequences can certainly impact game management
and shooting, but it is also true that game managers and shooters are in a good
position to detect and report outbreaks. Please be vigilant and report any
concerns.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Scottish Government have joined with
organisations involved in gamebird management to issue </span><a href="https://www.gfa.org.uk/user_files/uploads/Bird_Flu_and_Gamebirds%20-%2012%20Nov%202021.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">revised guidance</span></a><span style="background: white; color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">on bird flu and the way it can affect the
activities of gamebird rearers.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Queries specific to gamebirds and avian
influenza can also be addressed to:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The Game Farmers Association</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">PO Box 3629<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Wokingham<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">RG40 9LG<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Tel: 01189 797255</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:dominic@gfa.org.uk"><span style="background: white; color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">dominic@gfa.org.uk</span></a><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Scottish Government guidance on avian influenza can be found at:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.gov.scot/avianinfluenza"><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">www.gov.scot/avianinfluenza</span></a><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #404040; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">You may wish to pass this information on to your members as
appropriate.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-1703119219299382932022-01-19T09:07:00.004-08:002022-01-21T08:40:22.457-08:00SCOTTISH GAMEKEEPERS' CHAIRMAN RECEIVES MBE IN EDINBURGH CEREMONY<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWicACdvUJYXry0ubvDLNSFLtlcNszy2bkkxiAk-4u6YlArPUEOsVzu0aS3ut_4UnXFa9MEeMcqPRIaQqgADlljnIkQfX03847t0y160-T5yBnJOuRs7e_Sg62pA3p4LCHOHFT83LZvqwYkWW5cjhunedHODVH56BIXD6GsS-V0oMdG_n2exh9C-ki=s1023" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1023" height="565" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWicACdvUJYXry0ubvDLNSFLtlcNszy2bkkxiAk-4u6YlArPUEOsVzu0aS3ut_4UnXFa9MEeMcqPRIaQqgADlljnIkQfX03847t0y160-T5yBnJOuRs7e_Sg62pA3p4LCHOHFT83LZvqwYkWW5cjhunedHODVH56BIXD6GsS-V0oMdG_n2exh9C-ki=w640-h565" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex with his medal for Services to Gamekeeping in Scotland.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Scottish Gamekeepers Association Chairman Alex Hogg received his MBE for Services to Gamekeeping in Scotland this afternoon (Jan 19) at a ceremony in Edinburgh.</span></h1><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">It was a memorable day for the Chairman, his family and the entire gamekeeping community as Alex belatedly received his honour from the Princess Royal, dressed in his estate tweed (including kilt).</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">Due to Covid-19 in-person award ceremonies have been restricted.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">However, the Borders gamekeeper picked up his medal in a Covid-compliant service, watched on by wife, Caroline.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">He was notified of his award of Member of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in Autumn 2020.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">“I am overjoyed for the gamekeepers,” he said. “This honour has been very rarely awarded for this reason and I’d like to thank the whole gamekeeping family because it is a team, not me.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">“This is for everyone who has been there for The Scottish Gamekeepers Association all these years, since the outset.”</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">Receiving the award in 2022 is fitting as the SGA celebrates a quarter century of representing gamekeepers, deer managers and ghillies of land and river. </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">The organisation hosts its 25th Anniversary AGM at McDiarmid Park in Perth on Friday 4th March.</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyHuZ0_eTT8dXcc1Z6TQBTAy2p8O721-2iV_S1fy7Xrvq79EMFPhfFNzch0Q45f7AZPA8MQcuFDZtnOmuYZWyH1vXQ0eZf7IEcocoCCJgTC510kpJuWvM6wgysQnBySai8DGekN6rPfNuLxfO2Qmtfg4cqotZquHp9H1qbwJ4Tpcq7TeZjm6elA0nb=s838" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="716" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyHuZ0_eTT8dXcc1Z6TQBTAy2p8O721-2iV_S1fy7Xrvq79EMFPhfFNzch0Q45f7AZPA8MQcuFDZtnOmuYZWyH1vXQ0eZf7IEcocoCCJgTC510kpJuWvM6wgysQnBySai8DGekN6rPfNuLxfO2Qmtfg4cqotZquHp9H1qbwJ4Tpcq7TeZjm6elA0nb=w341-h400" width="341" /></a></div><br /><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><br /></p><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-91613228161529207512022-01-18T06:56:00.002-08:002022-01-18T06:56:22.143-08:00Avian influenza – Lifting of Disease Control Zones around Infected Premises near Moffat, Annan and Gretna<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Following the
completion of preliminary cleansing and disinfection, and all mandatory
surveillance requirements and investigations, Scottish Ministers have declared
the lifting of the 10 km Surveillance Zones, which had been applied around
highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 infected premises in three
locations: near Moffat, near Annan and near Gretna, all in Dumfries and
Galloway.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">These zones
were revoked on the following dates and times:</span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Outbreak
near Moffat 10:45 am 14 January 2022<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Outbreak near Annan 12 noon 16
January 2022<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Outbreak
near Gretna 11:00 am 18 January 2022<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">HPAI H5N1 had
been confirmed at these locations by Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO),
Sheila Voas, on 10 December, 09 December and 15 December respectively, and a 3
km Protection Zone and 10 km Surveillance Zone had been applied in each case.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">With the
Protection Zones being lifted by Ministers in these locations on 05
January, 07 December and 10 December respectively, the removal of the
Surveillance Zones means that there are currently no specific restrictions
remaining in these areas, with the exception of those affecting each infected
premises.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Two of these
Surveillance Zones, those associated with the outbreak in Annan and Gretna,
included areas within England, so Defra have simultaneously lifted the
associated Surveillance Zones implemented south of the border.</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">However, the UK-wide </span></b><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-prevention-zone-including-housing-november-2021/"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Avian
Influenza Protection Zone</span></b></a></span><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"> (AIPZ) remains in
place</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">, and producers and bird keepers are reminded that
they are <b>legally required to comply with the Order to house birds</b> that
came in to effect, as part of the AIPZ on 29 November 2021, <b>and to follow
strict biosecurity procedures</b>, regardless of the number of birds being
kept. Keepers who are concerned about the health or welfare of their
flock should seek veterinary advice immediately.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/pages/clinical-signs/"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Clinical signs</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">
indicative of avian influenza must be reported to your local Animal and Plant
Health Agency (APHA) </span><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening#scotland-field-service-offices"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Field Office</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">.
<b>Failure to do so is an offence</b>.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">High standards of biosecurity</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;">
must be maintained, as good practice for the health of your birds, and </span><span style="color: black; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"><a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1036185/biosecurity-poultry-guide.pdf"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">good biosecurity</span></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">,</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-color-alt: windowtext;"> is
an essential defence against diseases, such as avian influenza, and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">The advice from
Public Health Scotland is that the<b> risk to human health from the virus
remains very low, </b>and food standards bodies advise that <b>avian influenzas
pose a very low food safety risk</b> for UK consumers. It does not affect
the consumption of poultry products, including eggs.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Outbreak
Overview</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The cases of
HPAI H5N1 in poultry and captive birds across the UK for this outbreak season
now total 81:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">68
are in England<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">5
are in Scotland<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">5
are in Northern Ireland<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 21.3pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">3
are in Wales<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">This is the
largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza (prior to this, the largest number
was 26 cases of HPAI in the UK in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Compliance
with the AIPZ Housing Measures</span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">As
previously stated, within the AIPZ it is a legal requirement to house your
birds or otherwise keep them separate from wild birds. Avian influenza
controls, including the AIPZ, are enforced by Trading Standards or the
Environmental Health Service of a Local Authority</span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">See</span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="https://www.mygov.scot/find-your-local-council"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">the postcode tool</span></a><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">available
on gov.scot</span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> t</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">o find details of how to
contact your Local Authority with any reports of non-compliance.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">GB
Poultry Register</span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">In GB, you are
legally required to register your birds if you keep more than 50. However,
keepers with less than 50 birds are strongly encouraged to </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/poultry-including-game-birds-registration-rules-and-forms"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">register</span></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> in order to
receive valuable updates and advice</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.
It is also a legal requirement to notify APHA of any significant changes in the
average number of birds kept.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Further advice
for keepers can be found on our </span><a href="http://www.gov.scot/avianinfluenza"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">avian
influenza</span></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">
webpages</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-29397170419917875492022-01-17T06:37:00.003-08:002022-01-17T06:37:54.421-08:00Moorland Forum Public Online Debate - 9 February 2022<p>Moorland Forum are inviting the public to take part in their online debate on Rewilding.</p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Please
find below a link to the Eventbrite registration process of the Forum’s public
online debate on Rewilding to be held on 9 February 2022 between 7-8pm.
Please could you circulate this widely via your usual media channels.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"> <u><span style="color: #0563c1;"><a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rewilding-and-scotlands-moorlands-a-discussion-tickets-244427137147" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/rewilding-and-scotlands-moorlands-a-discussion-tickets-244427137147</a></span></u></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><br /></p><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-5242816755226961502022-01-14T05:14:00.006-08:002022-01-14T05:14:55.722-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 13 January 2022<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Cases in England</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed
on 13 January 2022 in commercial poultry at the following premises. A 3km
Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been put in place around each of
the premises. All birds on the infected premises will be humanely culled.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Tattenhall,
Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
(zones in force form 20:00 13 January 2022; a small area of the 10km
Surveillance zone surrounding this premises crosses the border </span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://gov.wales/declaration-avian-influenza-surveillance-zone-and-restricted-zone-near-tattenhall-cheshire"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">see the Welsh
Government website</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> for details of the declaration
for the zone for the relevant area of Wales).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">second premises near
Tattenhall, Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
(zones in force form 20:00 13 January 2022)</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the </span><a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,
and in Northern Ireland on </span><a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further information on these cases and details of the measures
that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 81 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 68
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. Failure to do so is an
offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-11568112309640660632022-01-11T07:48:00.003-08:002022-01-11T07:48:43.349-08:00Avian influenza – Lifting of Protection Zone around Infected Premises near Gretna, Dumfries and Galloway<p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Highly pathogenic
avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was previously confirmed at two premises near
Gretna by Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), Sheila Voas, on 03
December 2021 and 15 December 2021. A 3 km Protection Zone and 10 km
Surveillance Zone were applied around the first infected premises (IP) on 04
December 2021. The second IP was deemed a “special category premises” due
to its non-commercial nature. The premises fell within the existing 3 km
PZ and 10 km SZ of the previous Gretna IP. As a result of this, and based
on a veterinary risk assessment, no new disease control zones were applied.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The
confirmation of the second Gretna IP within existing disease control zones
extended the minimum time period required for these zones to be in place.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Following the
completion of preliminary cleansing and disinfection, and mandatory
surveillance requirements, Scottish Ministers have </span><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-dumfriesshire-december-2021/"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">declared</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> the lifting of the 3 km Protection Zone
detailed above. The area this comprised has now merged with the 10 km
Surveillance Zone, which is still in force.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The GB-wide </span><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-prevention-zone-including-housing-november-2021/"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Avian Influenza Protection Zone</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> (AIPZ), <b>remains in place</b>, and
producers and bird keepers are reminded that they are <b>legally required</b>
to comply with the Order to house birds that came in to effect, as part of the
AIPZ, on 24 November 2021, and to follow biosecurity procedures, regardless of
the number of birds being kept. Keepers who are concerned about the
health or welfare of their flock should seek veterinary advice immediately.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Further advice
for keepers can be found here: </span><a href="http://www.gov.scot/avianinfluenza"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">avian
influenza</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-53954493030868760772022-01-11T07:47:00.001-08:002022-01-11T07:47:06.902-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 10 January 2022<p><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Case England</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was suspected on 9 January 2022 in
commercial poultry at a second premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">near Louth, East Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a>.
Following testing, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was
confirmed at this premises. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance
Zone has been put in place around the premises, these zones revoke and
replace the Temporary Control Zones put in place surrounding this
premises. All poultry on the premises will be humanely culled.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Update Wales</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the premises near Crickhowell, Powys, Wales
on the 10 January 2022 the 10km Surveillance Zone and 10km Restricted Zone
surrounding this premises have been revoked. Local movement restrictions
have now been removed but the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ)
measures remain in place.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the </span><a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,
and in Northern Ireland on </span><a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 79 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 66
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Find out what you can do to keep your birds free of avian
influenza by </span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-stop-the-spread-webinars"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">registering for Defra’s ‘stop the spread’ webinars</span></b></a><b>.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. Failure to do so is an
offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-16545092736898294902022-01-10T02:15:00.001-08:002022-01-10T02:15:13.887-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 7 January 2022<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">APHA International Disease Monitoring (IDM)</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">An updated
outbreak assessment for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the UK
and Europe (#8 - 4 Jan 2022) has been published and is available on GOV.UK
<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-in-europe"><span style="color: #0563c1;">here</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Case England</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in kept birds at
a premises <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">near Upholland, West Lancashire, Lancashire</span></a>.
All birds on the infected premises will be humanely culled. A <b>3km
Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone</b> has been put in place
around premises (zones in force from 20:00 7 January 2022).<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Update Scotland</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the premises <a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-near-annan-december-2021/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">near Annan, Dumfriesshire, Dumfries and Galloway</span></a>
on the 7 January 2022 the 3km Protection Zone has ended and the area it
comprised merged with the <b>10km Surveillance Zone</b></span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the </span><a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,
and in Northern Ireland on </span><a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 78 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 65
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Find out what you can do to keep your birds free of avian
influenza by </span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-stop-the-spread-webinars"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">registering for Defra’s ‘stop the spread’ webinars</span></b></a><b>.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. Failure to do so is an
offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-6013252117001714692022-01-06T03:07:00.000-08:002022-01-06T03:07:11.033-08:00 Avian influenza – Lifting of Protection Zone around Infected Premises near Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Following the
completion of preliminary cleansing and disinfection, and mandatory
surveillance requirements, Scottish Ministers have <a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-near-moffat-december-2021/">declared</a>
the lifting of the 3 km Protection Zone, which had been applied around the
highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 infected premises, near Moffat in
Dumfries and Galloway. The area this comprised has now merged with the 10
km Surveillance Zone, which is still in force.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">HPAI H5N1 had
been confirmed at this location by Scotland’s Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO),
Sheila Voas, on 10 December 2021 and a 3 km Protection Zone and 10 km
Surveillance Zone were applied from 21:30 that evening.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">The GB-wide <a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-prevention-zone-including-housing-november-2021/">Avian
Influenza Protection Zone</a> (AIPZ), <b>remains in place</b>, and producers
and bird keepers are reminded that they are <b>legally required</b> to comply
with the Order to house birds that came in to effect, as part of the (AIPZ), on
24 November 2021, and to follow biosecurity procedures, regardless of the
number of birds being kept. Keepers who are concerned about the health or
welfare of their flock should seek veterinary advice immediately.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/pages/clinical-signs/">Clinical
signs</a> indicative of avian influenza must be reported to the Animal and
Plant Health Agency (APHA) <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening#scotland-field-service-offices">Field
Office</a>. <b>Failure to do so is an offence</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">High
standards of biosecurity</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">
must be maintained as good practice for the health of your birds, and <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1036185/biosecurity-poultry-guide.pdf">good
biosecurity</a> is an essential defence against diseases, such as avian
influenza, and is key to limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">The advice from
Public Health Scotland is that the<b> risk to human health from the virus
remains very low, </b>and food standards bodies advise that <b>avian influenzas
pose a very low food safety risk</b> for UK consumers. It does not affect
the consumption of poultry products, including eggs.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Outbreak
Overview<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The cases of
HPAI H5N1 across the UK now total </span><u style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">77</u><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">:</span></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">64
are in England<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5
are in Scotland<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3
are in Wales<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5
are in Northern Ireland<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">This is the
largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza (prior to this, the largest number
was 26 cases of HPAI in the UK in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Compliance
with AIPZ Housing Measures</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">As previously
stated, within the AIPZ is it a legal requirement to house your birds or
otherwise keep them separate from wild birds. Avian influenza controls,
including the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), are enforced by Trading
Standards or the Environmental Health Service of a Local Authority</span><i style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">See </span><a href="https://www.mygov.scot/find-your-local-council" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">our postcode tool</a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
available on gov.scot to find details of how to contact your Local Authority
with any reports of non-compliance.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">GB
Poultry Register</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">In GB, you are
legally required to register your birds if you keep more than 50 birds.
Keepers with less than 50 birds are strongly encouraged to </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/poultry-including-game-birds-registration-rules-and-forms" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">register</a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.
It is also a legal requirement to notify APHA of any significant changes in the
average number of birds kept.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Further advice for keepers can be found here: </span><a href="http://www.gov.scot/avianinfluenza" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">avian influenza</a></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-39230047287489475372022-01-06T01:09:00.001-08:002022-01-06T01:09:19.664-08:00Defra-Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 5 January 2022<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Case England</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in poultry at a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">premises near North Somercotes, East Lindsey,
Lincolnshire.</span></a> All birds on the infected premises will be
humanely culled. A <b>3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone</b>
have been put in place around premises (zones in force from 16:00 5
January 2021). These zones revoke and replace the 3km and 10km Temporary
Control Zones put in place around the premises at 09:30 5 January 2021).<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Update Scotland</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the premises <a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-near-moffat-december-2021/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">near Moffat, Dumfriesshire, Dumfries and Galloway,
Scotland</span></a> the 3km Protection Zone has ended and the area it
comprised merged with the <b>10km Surveillance Zone</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the <a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a>,
and in Northern Ireland on <a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 77 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 64
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a>. Failure to do so is an
offence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-72987354650200869982022-01-05T02:19:00.003-08:002022-01-05T02:19:21.871-08:00Defra-Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 4 January 2022<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Cases in England</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in poultry at
the following premises. All birds on the infected premises will be
humanely culled. A </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
has been put in place around each of the premises</span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Mablethorpe,
East Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (zones in force from 19:00 on
the 31 December 2021). </span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Louth, East
Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (zones in force from 19:00 on
the 31 December 2021). </span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">10</span><sup><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 7.5pt;">th</span></sup><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> premises near
Alford, East Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
(zones in force from 19:00 on the 3 January 2021).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Lazonby, Eden,
Cumbria</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (zones in force from 19:00 on
the 4 January 2022). </span> </li></ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in captive birds
at the following. All birds on the infected premises will be humanely culled.
A <b>3km Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zone</b> has been put in
place around the premises<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Eton, Windsor
& Maidenhead, Berkshire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (zone in
force from 21:00 on the 2 January 2022). </span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Update England</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the following premises, the 3km Protection
Zone have ended and the 10km Surveillance Zone surrounding these premises
have been revoked. Local movement restrictions have now been removed but
the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures</span></a>
remain in place.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l7 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Silecroft,
Copeland, Cumbria</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (effective from 17:00 on the 4
January 2022).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Update Wales</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the following premises, the 3km Protection
Zones has ended and the area it comprised merged with the 10km
Surveillance Zones. A 10km Restricted zone also remains in force
surrounding this premises.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://gov.wales/declaration-avian-influenza-surveillance-zone-restricted-zone-near-crickhowell-powys-wales?_ga=2.154899325.479335204.1641290619-861105010.1635882080"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Crickowell,
Powys</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (effective from 16:30 on the 4
January 2022).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the </span><a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,
and in Northern Ireland on </span><a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 76 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo9; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 63
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo9; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo9; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo9; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. Failure to do so is an
offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-5005913683795033582021-12-31T00:38:00.003-08:002021-12-31T00:38:24.826-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 30 December 2021<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Cases in England</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed on 28 December 2021
in birds at a <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england%23north-somercotes&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=MhtD5xWl4RK1i9z4japRA3SrRJv91YPivgNCUQn1bWM%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1;">premises near North Somercotes, East
Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a>. All birds on the infected premises will
be humanely culled. A <b>3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone</b>
have been put in place around the premises (zones in force from 19:00 on
the 28 December 2021). <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed on 28 December
2021 in birds at a <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england%23watlington&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=6tvPVbv6JgZQj%2BemFmk46d3fZX6Fa7XAsyZ4buoB8M0%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1;">premises near Watlington, King’s Lynn and West
Norfolk, Norfolk</span></a>. All birds on the infected premises will be
humanely culled. A <b>3km Protection Zone and a 10km
Surveillance Zone</b> have been put in place around the premises (zones in
force from 19:00 on the 28 December 2021). <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Updates England</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l7 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the following premises, the 3km Protection
Zones have ended and the 10km Surveillance Zones surrounding these
premises have been revoked. Local movement restrictions have now been
removed but the <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu%23AIPZ&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=FN7TcnsklCaEhSWmmt9TscSgQRbGCIprTQxO3z3vWMM%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures</span></a>
remain in place.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england%23salwick&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=KSVo61CXMlSdGEOz5JRupieepgUh8kvDeSI5ldueMrg%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Near Salwick, Fylde,
Lancashire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (effective from 20:15 on the
29 December 2021).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england%23kirkham&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=rLP8Bo%2BjqvAxxiHtkcCx1UAkCwKgRu3onLHghVQ3qAM%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Near Kirkham, Fylde
Lancashire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (effective from 20:15 on the
29 December 2021).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england%23wells&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=WsnnYdtfp3w9CmrStO9mwGPOkj0T5HS9fwMZB%2FiU6hs%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Near
Wells-next-the-sea, North Norfolk, Norfolk</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
(effective from 18:30 on the 24 December 2021).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Updates Wales</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the following premises, the 10km Surveillance
Zone and the 10km Restricted Zone surrounding this premises have been
revoked. Local movement restrictions have now been removed but the <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fguidance%2Favian-influenza-bird-flu%23AIPZ&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=FN7TcnsklCaEhSWmmt9TscSgQRbGCIprTQxO3z3vWMM%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures</span></a>
remain in place.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fgov.wales%2Flifting-avian-influenza-surveillance-zone-restricted-zone-near-gaerwen-isle-anglesey-wales&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=gZR%2F52pj5h2S3ZT9ct2EHIVIfGht9eFXzjHF8mxhSg8%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Near Gaerwen, Isle of
Anglesey</span></a> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">(effective from 13:30 on the 27
December 2021).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Updates Northern Ireland</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following depopulation
and preliminary cleansing and disinfection at a <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.daera-ni.gov.uk%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fpublications%2Fdaera%2FDeclaration%2520-%2520ending%2520PZ%2520-%2520merge%2520with%2520SZ%2520-%2520Broughshane%2520County%2520Antrim%2520-%252025.12.2021.pdf&data=04%7C01%7CLaura.Canellos%40defra.gov.uk%7C865d1ffb5f634991ec4a08d9cb9423ad%7C770a245002274c6290c74e38537f1102%7C0%7C0%7C637764660372269860%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=kPXAKhykw2vtUwKvcmBLFrFmuc81u20UhAFuewvSty8%3D&reserved=0"><span style="color: #0563c1;">premises in Broughshane, County Antrim</span></a>,
the 3km Protection Zone has ended and been merged with the 10km
Surveillance Zone (effective from 18:00 on the 25 December 2021).<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the <a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a>,
and in Northern Ireland on <a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 70 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 57
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a>. Failure to do so is an
offence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-50580730061498099402021-12-24T07:31:00.006-08:002021-12-24T07:31:43.414-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 23 December 2021<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Cases in England</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed on 22 December in
non-commercial birds at a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">second premises near Helsby, Cheshire West and
Chester, Cheshire</span></a>. All birds on the infected premises will be
humanely culled. A <b>3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone</b>
has been put in place around the premises (zones in force from 21:30 on
the 22 December 2021).<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed on 22 December in
captive birds (non-poultry) at a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">premises near Buckfastleigh, Teignbridge, Devon</span></a>.
All affected birds on the infected premises will be humanely culled. A <b>3km
Captive Bird (Monitoring) Controlled Zone</b> has been put in place around
the premises (zone in force from 21:30 on the 22 December 2021).<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Updates England</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones surrounding the following premises the 3km Protection
Zone has ended and the 10km Surveillance Zone surrounding these premises
have been revoked. Local movement restrictions have now been removed but
the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) measures</span></a>
remain in place.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Pokesdown,
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
(effective from 17:30 on the 20 December 2021).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near North Fambridge,
Maldon, Essex</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (effective from 17:30 on the
22 December 2021).</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Case Northern Ireland</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">HPAI H5N1
has been confirmed in a commercial premises in Ballinderry, County
Londonderry. See the <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA website</span></a> for further information<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the </span><a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,
and in Northern Ireland on </span><a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 68 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 55
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local </span><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">. Failure to do so is an
offence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-66497364724818086652021-12-22T06:58:00.005-08:002021-12-22T07:46:34.298-08:00CELEBRATING OUR WORKERS: A RECAP OF 2021<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzOd3pIU8VVWrkxTTFeKFbnPDPupW9IDCqxUtBjTvrpdMXGmqJwdQ17zM0Pu2ekQrQjyDROApJRMsRrA_IpCDHC1qea518Gcdy8h7ixwRzrrwAqocq80FYWH2TqhjeamuaT4URrxeMXwTZveWmyNLUWE1HG595ebdCDL-u5MtKWS5pLrtD2n4DZGQ3=s2645" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1969" data-original-width="2645" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzOd3pIU8VVWrkxTTFeKFbnPDPupW9IDCqxUtBjTvrpdMXGmqJwdQ17zM0Pu2ekQrQjyDROApJRMsRrA_IpCDHC1qea518Gcdy8h7ixwRzrrwAqocq80FYWH2TqhjeamuaT4URrxeMXwTZveWmyNLUWE1HG595ebdCDL-u5MtKWS5pLrtD2n4DZGQ3=w400-h297" width="400" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span>As we recap on 2021, it is fitting to see morning headlines showing a further £1m to save Scotland’s iconic red squirrels, topping up on the previous £2.45m.</span></span></h2><p></p><p><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: medium;">Native reds are threatened by non-native grey squirrels. The populations of greys must be managed, if reds are to survive.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>Gamekeepers have been managing grey squirrels for decades, <i>voluntarily</i>.</span><span> </span></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Imagine if they hadn't been?</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This touches on the key message of the SGA’s Year of Employment project, #YofE2021, soon to become <b>#YofE2022</b></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjK8pxQTObRdcNzwG4KpsrGxlKCYBfJ4RuzOI-JaaPIyXIzh9e3pW8OJlWoXtb4fXvWvKrqUnVXOI8GAezA1y-vsNkdj6uNcsGc54raKcNlitIc7H48cte7asJxdkXPozCnLH2bMPO_vNrmBNkA_4Y-5q32RTRPROxIhCDSL5qVTgg4Hx6yIOz4W4-b=s5699" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5614" data-original-width="5699" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjK8pxQTObRdcNzwG4KpsrGxlKCYBfJ4RuzOI-JaaPIyXIzh9e3pW8OJlWoXtb4fXvWvKrqUnVXOI8GAezA1y-vsNkdj6uNcsGc54raKcNlitIc7H48cte7asJxdkXPozCnLH2bMPO_vNrmBNkA_4Y-5q32RTRPROxIhCDSL5qVTgg4Hx6yIOz4W4-b=w400-h394" width="400" /></span></span></a></div><span><span style="font-size: medium;">Since the August launch, the SGA has highlighted work delivered by Scotland’s <b>gamekeepers</b>, <b>ghillies</b> of river and land and <b>deer managers</b>.</span></span><p></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Just as it is with squirrels, this conservation task-force, the efforts to enhance biodiversity and to mitigate climate change has been delivered to Scotland, <i><b>free of charge</b></i>.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, while the public purse subsidises red squirrel conservation (a worthy cause) a silent army of Scottish gamekeepers have been out there for many decades, quietly doing some of the hard yards - at no cost to Scotland. </span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Some people might not know this.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Hopefully, with the Year of Employment project now 5 months old, they are beginning to get hear the message more.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Amidst the many commitments the SGA undertakes, we have been able to showcase our Year of Employment work to diverse audiences.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;">Each MSP in the Scottish Parliament received launch details and a Project postcard. Encouragingly, we have had responses from <i>all</i> Holyrood parties. </span></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Some wanted to know more about how SGA members have humanely <u>managed over 1 million deer in a decade</u>, benefitting climate and biodiversity while providing one of our leanest, sustainable foods (with low carbon miles). See our Deer Vision for how this can be maximised further: <a href="https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/deer-vision/">https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/deer-vision/</a></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlAij0FnnLA5wqAEU9ZOIbfviGDgFMEy-Vkmpt44BX9Y3mc8D8C45OJFCxYwMwvEL9x6056tj1KeFPW5fP_i-aSulzdDjdmoE421MuYRKsTHUfrWsE_GVnMvTsUKA2Lw1dKBdn8L8uosHaBbuaIuYywPGpGQG4mMSulmPPVhoiPGOgcHzj3CSW1TTL=s3072" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1288" data-original-width="3072" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlAij0FnnLA5wqAEU9ZOIbfviGDgFMEy-Vkmpt44BX9Y3mc8D8C45OJFCxYwMwvEL9x6056tj1KeFPW5fP_i-aSulzdDjdmoE421MuYRKsTHUfrWsE_GVnMvTsUKA2Lw1dKBdn8L8uosHaBbuaIuYywPGpGQG4mMSulmPPVhoiPGOgcHzj3CSW1TTL=w400-h168" width="400" /></span></span></a></div><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>*If you are a member and want some <u>project Postcards</u> to hand out locally, or use for education, please email the office on </span><a href="mailto:info@scottishgamekeepers.co.uk">info@scottishgamekeepers.co.uk</a></span></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">They contain a Code where people can explore the project. </span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">At the GWCT Scottish Game Fair and at the Game and Country Ltd Open Day, we took our project to the public and, in Spring 2022, we will attend a national conference in Edinburgh, extending the message further.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In the new Winter edition of Scottish Gamekeeper, we focused on rivers. At Meikleour, the ghillie team have spent years removing non-native Himalayan Balsam. Their work in non-native mink trapping has seen a welcome rise in kingfishers. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj35I4Yd6e6DIAy3qhvyIwBX78nbThBmFWr4x7IbZi2mxSZkB648drR801c4XuNWRn9mm-sMSBB0b-geTVKgGgW7XOSXQr123jZIbMQbsVD4D3-Kjt9zbieHw7yhtA73GHuABO9nnswLXWXNHjxWJLJlExv1Xp4v33jwMU8R11LtMdNosnkJEGP2NuG=s5760" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3840" data-original-width="5760" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj35I4Yd6e6DIAy3qhvyIwBX78nbThBmFWr4x7IbZi2mxSZkB648drR801c4XuNWRn9mm-sMSBB0b-geTVKgGgW7XOSXQr123jZIbMQbsVD4D3-Kjt9zbieHw7yhtA73GHuABO9nnswLXWXNHjxWJLJlExv1Xp4v33jwMU8R11LtMdNosnkJEGP2NuG=w400-h266" width="400" /></span></span></a></div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div>*If you are not an SGA member but want to receive our quarterly magazine, click the link below to find out about supporter and other memberships, from as little as £25 per year: </span><a href="https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/about-us/membership-grades-and-benefits.php" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: large;">https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/about-us/membership-grades-and-benefits.php</a></span></span><p></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">In mid-November, we were in the Scottish Borders, filming </span><i>The Tree Planting Gamekeeper</i><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvR-BXKzBKDw0DjvGGUCClgMA7g9ZIPPEaNPweBIm1BYKKSxGXNFqlGrrFqV_4PuKB4Gq7F79ELt_rNZqL-EmYw9JO7jw2EiMBuIAm-FtTt32IZZ1pcAjU_Yl9gotQc_E0I0F_DHYsW3pA1dstMs2th-Ybe3lh7TJFQkDEoNcjzHkYN18MhrEiJ6Hh=s1170" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="542" data-original-width="1170" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvR-BXKzBKDw0DjvGGUCClgMA7g9ZIPPEaNPweBIm1BYKKSxGXNFqlGrrFqV_4PuKB4Gq7F79ELt_rNZqL-EmYw9JO7jw2EiMBuIAm-FtTt32IZZ1pcAjU_Yl9gotQc_E0I0F_DHYsW3pA1dstMs2th-Ybe3lh7TJFQkDEoNcjzHkYN18MhrEiJ6Hh=w400-h185" width="400" /></span></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"><span style="font-size: medium;">Not everyone realises the amount of trees, shrubs, hedgerows and wild cover planted and managed by gamekeepers; something Scottish Government and environmentalists want to see.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: large;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: medium;">This work enhances shooting but it is also creating habitats and food for fragile small bird populations and declining pollinators, which would not exist without the motivation of providing shooting experiences for visitors.</span></div>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The film, featuring SGA Chairman Alex Hogg, MBE, looked at his work delivering woodlands and wetlands, providing benefits for species, climate and biodiversity. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-59uILPCsaOb3ksUL1j94jeGIZzsFjlZSvyd57vCZDUQKAbKjc2iXECWx1AZ4buHOWRX41WVuHIGxYSdYma301jsj_74p4drdCjarS8vIcuKo170WkfIuRmOWBwYM-urkZMbkhFd51aPige4r-H-AYNUtEK_P3a3hX0raSI5Zg0N85vg8VwmBl77f=s1170" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1170" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-59uILPCsaOb3ksUL1j94jeGIZzsFjlZSvyd57vCZDUQKAbKjc2iXECWx1AZ4buHOWRX41WVuHIGxYSdYma301jsj_74p4drdCjarS8vIcuKo170WkfIuRmOWBwYM-urkZMbkhFd51aPige4r-H-AYNUtEK_P3a3hX0raSI5Zg0N85vg8VwmBl77f=w400-h219" width="400" /></span></span></a></div><span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>The film, and short clips, have been viewed many tens of thousands of times across our <b>YouTube channel</b>: </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq1tC9G-yug&t=16s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq1tC9G-yug&t=16s</a></span></span><p></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">(remember to hit subscribe, when you view)</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><b>On Facebook</b><span>: SGAgamekeepers (Like and follow us)</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>On Twitter</b>: @ScotGamekeepers (Follow us)</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Our new <b>Instagram page</b>: scottishgamekeepers (QR Code below, left)</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtAMNQvshQgKL46vaweF1wXu7bglAIPZIo9YI-P2JLl8YGBE1dsp0iipmlZ7VI3uedqqFQvjmsTYuJevCbsyw2u8Y83MK6_x410mzCyKvKthV-JkBtJAEJOLyWWyKr03f8fUSwnSXhbSli-vvFYndL7xvgBkDUIZuEdD3K5M5KScYvcqOJpyIUIiTX=s1639" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1639" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtAMNQvshQgKL46vaweF1wXu7bglAIPZIo9YI-P2JLl8YGBE1dsp0iipmlZ7VI3uedqqFQvjmsTYuJevCbsyw2u8Y83MK6_x410mzCyKvKthV-JkBtJAEJOLyWWyKr03f8fUSwnSXhbSli-vvFYndL7xvgBkDUIZuEdD3K5M5KScYvcqOJpyIUIiTX=s320" width="228" /></span></a></div><span><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: x-large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span><br /></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>and on our </span><b>website</b><span>: </span><a href="https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk">https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk</a></span></p></span><p></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Watch the film, here, if you haven’t done already.</b> Click: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq1tC9G-yug&t=16s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq1tC9G-yug&t=16s</a></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-size: large;">If you don’t know about our Year of Employment project, click here: </span><a href="https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/year-of-employment/">https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/year-of-employment/</a></span></h1><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span><span><br /></span></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span><span style="font-size: medium;">From the Office and Team, the editorial crew at Scottish Gamekeeper magazine and the SGA Committee, we wish you all the best for the festive season.</span></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In 2022, our Year of Employment project won't stop telling of the good work our members undertake for <i>climate, nature and biodiversity</i>.</span></p>
<p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In the words of Jim Rohn: <i><b>“How long should you try? Until.”</b></i></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">*(Team SGA would like to thank Michael Callan for the excellent wildlife </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;">photographs</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> used in this blog).</span></span></p><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-67536475515662022092021-12-22T04:03:00.003-08:002021-12-22T04:03:49.942-08:00Scottish Government COVID-19 Update 21/12/21<p> </p><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;">
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Yesterday the First Minister delivered a <a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-update-first-ministers-statement-21-december-2021/" target="_blank">statement to Parliament</a> and outlined additional measures
Cabinet considers necessary to help stem the increase in COVID-19 cases,
safeguard health and protect the NHS, the emergency services and the economy
while the booster vaccination programme is completed.</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The First Minister
confirmed that advice relating to Christmas was unchanged but stressed the
need for people to reduce contacts with other households as much as possible
in the lead up. She said people should keep family celebrations as safe as
possible by keeping gatherings as small as circumstances allow and to make
sure everyone does a test shortly before getting together. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.gov.scot/news/further-measures-needed-to-reduce-contacts/" target="_blank">Further measures to slow the spread of the Omicron variant</a>
include:</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="m7770178060276109267msolistparagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">From 05:00 on 26
December, large events will be limited to 100 people for indoor standing
events, 200 people for indoor seated events, and 500 people for all
outdoor events seated or standing. </span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="m7770178060276109267msolistparagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-size: 12.0pt;">From 05:00 on 27 December there will be a</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> requirement for one metre physical distancing
between adults in all indoor hospitality and leisure settings. This
includes pubs, bars, restaurants, cafes and other settings where food
and drink is served for consumption on-site. Table service will be
required in settings where alcohol is served for consumption on the
premises. Leisure settings including gyms, theatres, cinemas, bingo and
snooker halls, bowling alleys, museums, galleries and other visitor
attractions are also included.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="m7770178060276109267msolistparagraph" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Physical distancing will not be required in places of worship or
on public transport, however existing mitigations will continue to
apply.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A package totalling
£375 million, including £175 million of additional funding from the Treasury,
will be made available to support sectors affected by the latest protective
measures. An update will be provided on the breakdown and allocation of
funding as soon as possible.<br />
<br />
Ministers will also consider how COVID certification could be expanded to
cover a wider range of indoor settings to support them remaining open once
the booster programme is complete.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-call-centres-and-customer-contact-centre-environments/" target="_blank">Guidance for call centres and customer contact centre
environments</a> on safe operation during the pandemic has been updated.
</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-general-guidance-for-safer-workplaces/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Guidance
for businesses and workplaces on reducing the risk of COVID-19 and supporting
staff and customers</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
has been updated to enable businesses to take reasonable measures to limit
the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. </span><o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 21.0pt; mso-yfti-irow: 2; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The </span><a href="https://www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">NHS Inform
coronavirus webpage</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
is the fastest way for people to get the latest health advice and
information.</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #44546a; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-37083830804722492582021-12-20T01:04:00.004-08:002021-12-20T01:04:20.696-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 18 December 2021<p> <b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Cases in England</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in birds at the
following premises. All birds on the infected premises will be humanely
culled. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been put in
place around each of the premises<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">at a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">ninth premises near Alford, East Lindsey,
Lincolnshire</span></a> (zones in force from 18:45 on the 18 December
2021)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">at a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">premises near Helsby, Cheshire West & Chester,
Cheshire</span></a> (zones in force from 18:45 on the 18 December 2021)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the <a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a>,
and in Northern Ireland on <a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 65 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: 53
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland: 5
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales: 3
cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern
Ireland: 4 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
(prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases in 2020/2021 and 13
cases in 2016/2017).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Find out what you can do to keep your birds free of avian
influenza by </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-stop-the-spread-webinars"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">registering for Defra’s ‘stop the spread’ webinars</span></b></a><b>.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a>. Failure to do so is an
offence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-43557181555800925452021-12-20T01:03:00.002-08:002021-12-20T01:03:15.894-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 17 December 2021<p><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Case in England</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in birds at the
following premises. All birds on the infected premises will be humanely
culled. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been put in
place around the premises<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">eighth premises near
Alford, East Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
(zones in force from 19:15 on the 17 December 2021)</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Update – </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">Premises near Frinton-on-Sea, Tendring, Essex</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">following
successful completion of disease control activities and surveillance
within the zones, the 3km Protection Zone has ended and 10km Surveillance
Zone declared on 12 November 2021 has now been revoked. Local movement
restrictions have now been removed but the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ)</span></a>
measures remain in place.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case Update – Northern Ireland</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 has been confirmed in commercial
premises in Armagh, County Armagh and Coagh, County Tyrone. The Temporary
Control Zones surrounding these premises have been revoked and replaced by
a 3km Protection Zone and a 10km Surveillance Zone. See the <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA
website</span></a> for further information<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the <a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a>,
and in Northern Ireland on <a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 63 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">51 are in
England: 50 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5 are in
Scotland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3 are in
Wales: 3 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4 are in
Northern Ireland: 2 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
with 60 confirmed cases (prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases
in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Find out what you can do to keep your birds free of avian
influenza by </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-stop-the-spread-webinars"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">registering for Defra’s ‘stop the spread’ webinars</span></b></a><b>.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a>. Failure to do so is an
offence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-38383673573501514362021-12-17T04:05:00.000-08:002021-12-17T04:04:59.947-08:00CAIRNGORMS PLAN BELITTLES LAND MANAGERS, WARNS GAMEKEEPERS<p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMDlEriG5xmjgSDm5jzkvmcsUi7HCl4OwI9anDO5i6zv-dmsq_oGEDIR__NQ5nyQjVQ7XDKLijVDyFszcEgPY6QZzqOCNQF8P-lJVH0K_eM_bi3g_JNkcCPvoJAf6RvelsPX9mY8Fs1J3Imd1m9domSq_g3NcmDNPv97BBIcwRfx9nLhaCtLE8dfcN=s5568" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3712" data-original-width="5568" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMDlEriG5xmjgSDm5jzkvmcsUi7HCl4OwI9anDO5i6zv-dmsq_oGEDIR__NQ5nyQjVQ7XDKLijVDyFszcEgPY6QZzqOCNQF8P-lJVH0K_eM_bi3g_JNkcCPvoJAf6RvelsPX9mY8Fs1J3Imd1m9domSq_g3NcmDNPv97BBIcwRfx9nLhaCtLE8dfcN=w590-h266" width="590" /></a></div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: large;"><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">A new plan by the Cairngorms National Park could be self-defeating and will erode fragile goodwill of land managers whose collaborative efforts are needed to meet climate challenges.</span></h2></span><p></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">That is the view of the Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) who have criticised elements of the draft 5 year vision in a consultation which closed on Friday (17th).</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b00fe; font-size: medium;">(Hear Chairman Alex Hogg's reaction by hitting PLAY on the image at the foot of this article).</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Contained within the plan are increased tree planting targets, heightened deer culls and curbs on game management which go beyond plans announced by Scottish Government.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Park’s new 5 Year Vision proposes deer densities of only 5-8 deer per sq km, reduced grouse bags and less pheasant releases within the Park boundary.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPHErSE4M1YZXfYidHnZRrXSgp7Gu8TfVWZw6s6Ka72aL9FkotU2zhMWq-G3phArxUbMaZyiBeH4LNiTkJA93L-h7RaBRQJnwoxg8zl7xRmmYy8rQ-0PPl4puGNz9N9b5b2rz5ezGZDa6NMLe1Xs3U-F1CGZX2r6BM7d43K4oeOaHCReBD24fz8ZwD=s4928" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="4928" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPHErSE4M1YZXfYidHnZRrXSgp7Gu8TfVWZw6s6Ka72aL9FkotU2zhMWq-G3phArxUbMaZyiBeH4LNiTkJA93L-h7RaBRQJnwoxg8zl7xRmmYy8rQ-0PPl4puGNz9N9b5b2rz5ezGZDa6NMLe1Xs3U-F1CGZX2r6BM7d43K4oeOaHCReBD24fz8ZwD=s320" width="320" /></a></div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: large;">However, Scotland’s gamekeepers believe the vision will <b>critically undermine the viability of game businesses within the Park</b>, leading to job and investment losses.</span><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This, they claim, would inhibit other key priorities such as skilled deer management and wildfire mitigation, which the Plan requires to achieve its aims.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: large;">Mixed game estates and farms are bulwarks of the Park’s economy, generating income and investment while the Park’s economy shrank by nearly 15% in 2020 due to Covid-19.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Gamekeepers have labelled divisive elements of the vision ‘irresponsible’ and feel it will deepen cracks between resident land management workers and the Park’s leaders.</span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">They also believe it diminishes the cultural heritage of the Park, one of the elements it was set up to protect when founded by an act of Parliament in 2003.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">“Instead of utilising the vast skills within the land management community, this plan belittles their present and future contribution. It is extremely disappointing.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">“This is a time when centuries of knowledge in field-skills and things like humane deer management and wildfire mitigation are vital in a changing climate. The Park needs to take these people with them. Ultimately, the white collars won’t deliver the priorities, people on the ground will,” said SGA Chairman, Alex Hogg, MBE.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijk7UWpyVVnqWc6CZ_23RkleoTbhLj2RpnTk3XNhmvaTlo6zIxna3Ug071F2dh5jcmGGzoCfVkAqLBLX2N_q3Ls49cSLiD4bIsa4HJMzHCDBCcVmiKPDHYzqgSMRB5XyxBXKO1iuSpbFOl0rKTpZUfsXkhpQRnwmLoTXoywstENfA3JzN8he_EKtyT=s1246" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="1242" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijk7UWpyVVnqWc6CZ_23RkleoTbhLj2RpnTk3XNhmvaTlo6zIxna3Ug071F2dh5jcmGGzoCfVkAqLBLX2N_q3Ls49cSLiD4bIsa4HJMzHCDBCcVmiKPDHYzqgSMRB5XyxBXKO1iuSpbFOl0rKTpZUfsXkhpQRnwmLoTXoywstENfA3JzN8he_EKtyT=s320" width="319" /></a></div><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: large;">One of the plan’s proposals is for the Park authority to push for less gamebird releasing despite consultation notes admitting the present information held by them was ‘patchy’.</span><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Last Autumn, a DEFRA review in England found that impacts of pheasant releases were localised, with no negative affects 500m from release points.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Pheasant and partridge shooting is part of sector sustaining <b>8800 FTE Scottish jobs</b>, a significant proportion of those jobs within the Park. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">(for more on game sector jobs)</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <b>WATCH</b>: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-Divf2YZhk&t=18s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-Divf2YZhk&t=18s</a></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKEYVOT20IxlLst9SsZdg8RssQtnrORJ20Fh3A9_P3BvFIdSYA8eM18hk63ioe_1s8HuEnSXuFvgJaVz_vL20vcYX7CWnXe4y-_ikDDqniiF9_YYvRtkCyWSs5JPBoNggixlSvFzzluiGq_74QxWRtWRVKg2jL-cEU5KOuAcoD0luUFsrPdNFoe2hR=s1170" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1170" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKEYVOT20IxlLst9SsZdg8RssQtnrORJ20Fh3A9_P3BvFIdSYA8eM18hk63ioe_1s8HuEnSXuFvgJaVz_vL20vcYX7CWnXe4y-_ikDDqniiF9_YYvRtkCyWSs5JPBoNggixlSvFzzluiGq_74QxWRtWRVKg2jL-cEU5KOuAcoD0luUFsrPdNFoe2hR=w400-h205" width="400" /></a></div><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-size: large;">The SGA written response said it was unsound to frame policy on incomplete data, stating:“<b>Subjective evaluations of certain activities founded on information gaps is not a foundation for policy</b>, given the Park’s duties to its residents and businesses.”</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The SGA also described the Park’s deer management blueprint as <b>‘unworkable’</b>. </span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Scottish Government is set to legislate to promote a Scotland-wide deer density of 10 deer per sq km, in the present Parliamentary term.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Park’s draft plan, in contrast, will see the pursuit of open range deer densities up to 50% lower.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">“This would mean the Park promoting deer population levels at odds with every other region of Scotland. This is confusing and unworkable.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">“SGA members have managed more deer in the last decade than any other representative organisation (over 1 million), see: <a href="https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/deer-vision/">https://www.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/deer-vision/</a></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">"The biodiversity benefits of this should not be forgotten by those shaping policies which could further undermine viability. </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">“<i>Deer and game managers make up an interwoven element of the Park’s <b>cultural heritage</b> which cannot be readily sacrificed. Indeed, their contribution outlasts, by more than a century, the formation of the Park itself. This is relevant, given the Park’s founding aim of enhancing the natural and cultural heritage.”</i></span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">*</i><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">To read the full consultation response by the Scottish Gamekeepers </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Association, click: <a href="https://news.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/2021/12/full-response-cairngorms-national-park.html">https://news.scottishgamekeepers.co.uk/2021/12/full-response-cairngorms-national-park.html</a></span></span></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='426' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxZFIVBzw3EPUvlAjGO0ysIOWCr9Js9O0qs807HebNgZNJc8kUsIAEm0A3Uh6J5jGNldxsz34c3jWIG28IANQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;"><br /></span></span><p></p><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-19284805000855933692021-12-17T03:59:00.001-08:002021-12-17T03:59:22.401-08:00NEW GENERAL LICENCES FOR 2022 NOW AVAILABLE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI-QzFLcCdezE4UeRcmkK13kW-2INfcaRNKpaKxm83qPYwY0UPANrADmq2HJfXsBNNdx284_kg7DtLC4uKVzfFQPe_iSaWPm-9hncHrpdUVVsPoDwjBf39B_p-gn7fYKANziRxOjMo5A6pF-8tRevGKZTMM-UXY-zN4jWO_hPltRxCKwQSrjGbHFV0=s2534" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="2534" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhI-QzFLcCdezE4UeRcmkK13kW-2INfcaRNKpaKxm83qPYwY0UPANrADmq2HJfXsBNNdx284_kg7DtLC4uKVzfFQPe_iSaWPm-9hncHrpdUVVsPoDwjBf39B_p-gn7fYKANziRxOjMo5A6pF-8tRevGKZTMM-UXY-zN4jWO_hPltRxCKwQSrjGbHFV0=w640-h270" width="640" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">All SGA members should make themselves aware of the 2022 General Licences, published today (17th December 2021) by NatureScot. </h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">There are changes which everyone must be aware of. See the Licences, here: <a href="https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/protected-areas-and-species/licensing/species-licensing-z-guide/birds/general-licences-birds">https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/protected-areas-and-species/licensing/species-licensing-z-guide/birds/general-licences-birds</a></h3><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-85061019962009087032021-12-16T23:33:00.002-08:002021-12-16T23:33:18.214-08:00Defra - Avian Influenza Latest Situation - 16 December 2021<p><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Case in England</span></b></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in poultry at the
following premises. All birds on the infected premises will be humanely
culled. A 3km Protection Zone and 10km Surveillance Zone has been put in
place around each of the premises<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">near Market Bosworth,
Hinckley and Bosworth, Leicestershire</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">at a ninth premises
near Thirsk, Hambleton, North Yorkshire</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">at a sixth premises
near Alford, East Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">at a seventh premises
near Alford, East Lindsey, Lincolnshire</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Case in Scotland</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Highly
pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in captive birds near
Gretna, Dumfriesshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland on the 15 December
2021. All birds on the infected premises will be humanely culled. However
following a risk assessment no disease control zones have been put in
place surrounding this special category premises. This premises is located
within an existing protection zone. See the <a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Scottish Government website</span></a> for further
information.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers can check where disease control zones are located in
GB and if they are in zone on the <a href="https://defra.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=8cb1883eda5547c6b91b5d5e6aeba90d"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) interactive map</span></a>,
and in Northern Ireland on <a href="https://gis.daera-ni.gov.uk/arcgis/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3585e8cda94648518ac8fa88097e34ee"><span style="color: #0563c1;">DAERA’s interactive map</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">For further information on these cases and details of the
measures that apply in the disease control zones currently in force see:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">England: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu-cases-and-disease-control-zones-in-england</span></a>
<b>This is particularly important given there are multiple overlapping zones.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wales<b>: </b><a href="https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://gov.wales/avian-influenza-bird-flu-latest-update</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Scotland<b>: </b><a href="https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.scot/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu/</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Northern Ireland: <a href="https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/avian-influenza-ai</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To receive immediate notification of new cases and updated
zones in GB please sign up to the APHA’s Animal Disease alert subscription
service further details can be found at <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service"><span style="color: #0563c1;">https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apha-alert-subscription-service</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Outbreak Case Summary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In summary, since the first case confirmed in this outbreak
on the 26 October 2021, 60 cases of avian influenza have been confirmed in the
UK:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">50 are in
England: 50 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5 are in
Scotland: 5 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3 are in
Wales: 3 cases of HPAI H5N1<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 are in
Northern Ireland: 2 cases of HPAI H5N1 (<i>plus 2 cases of slaughter on
suspicion</i>)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of avian influenza
with 60 confirmed cases (prior to this the largest number of cases was 26 cases
in 2020/2021 and 13 cases in 2016/2017).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bird keepers are reminded that an Avian Influenza Prevention
Zone (AIPZ) including housing measures is in force across the UK.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
<b>See </b><a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">GOV.UK</span></b></a><b> for further information.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">High standards of biosecurity must be maintained as good
practice for the health of your birds, and that good biosecurity is an
essential defence against diseases such as avian influenza and is key to
limiting the spread of avian influenza in an outbreak.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Find out what you can do to keep your birds free of avian
influenza by </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-bird-flu-stop-the-spread-webinars"><b><span style="color: #0563c1;">registering for Defra’s ‘stop the spread’ webinars</span></b></a><b>.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keepers must keep a close watch on their birds for any signs
of disease, and seek prompt advice from a vet if they have any concerns.
Clinical signs indicative of avian influenza must be reported in England to
Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301. In Wales, contact 0300 303
8268. In Scotland, contact to the local <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency/about/access-and-opening"><span style="color: #0563c1;">Field Services Office</span></a>. Failure to do so is an
offence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104652840386274051.post-87553515854691858302021-12-16T12:30:00.000-08:002021-12-16T12:30:14.733-08:00FULL RESPONSE: CAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK 5 YEAR PLAN<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;">Please find below,<i> in full</i>, the Scottish Gamekeepers Association's response to the Cairngorms National Park Authority's consultation on the draft Park Partnership Plan for the next 5 years.</span></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;">Please note: only sections directly relevant to our membership were submitted.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue;">The draft plan can be found, here: </span><a href="https://cairngormsviews.commonplace.is/">https://cairngormsviews.commonplace.is/</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgC6YLqQrR_dH-mAC93Iksb1dLf8F8iZNGeTV1-wispbCFk-lW-VVtrZ_xlj2yfIADcSiC2iMT2zXqswdAhjYmCmdzB00zAkbRadkkHWTF9x_tYNhMkufGf3pc49DcJZ8wXKaqJRyOvt0_KLV3XiX4EZYjCZEzXkRSjMxX_whHAL8OJp1yZUIgt1w2a=s1060" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="740" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgC6YLqQrR_dH-mAC93Iksb1dLf8F8iZNGeTV1-wispbCFk-lW-VVtrZ_xlj2yfIADcSiC2iMT2zXqswdAhjYmCmdzB00zAkbRadkkHWTF9x_tYNhMkufGf3pc49DcJZ8wXKaqJRyOvt0_KLV3XiX4EZYjCZEzXkRSjMxX_whHAL8OJp1yZUIgt1w2a=w279-h400" width="279" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">A2:</b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Increasing woodland cover, where it is the right thing to do, in full discussion with those directly impacted and in consideration of their aspirations, is a worthy enough aim for a Planning and Access authority. However, the Park’s explanations for why woodland expansion is an objective, in itself, requires more detail, given potential implications.</span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The ‘trees for climate’ argument, for example, is an over-simplification of a multi-faceted process. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The right tree, right place reasoning is good but, on the ground, what assessments are actually being made by the Park to establish what is right in each circumstance? Insufficient work has been carried out in Scotland as a whole to identify where tree planting/regeneration will have definitive carbon benefits. This James Hutton Institute mapping system of woodland expansion would suggest the carbon benefits of increasing tree cover in the National Park in recent times, for example, is moderate <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://woodlandexpansion.hutton.ac.uk&source=gmail&ust=1639754276749000&usg=AOvVaw1xMxIFo4DmE0HaCPJPwgdA" href="https://woodlandexpansion.hutton.ac.uk/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://woodlandexpansion.<wbr></wbr>hutton.ac.uk</a></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Nationwide, not enough work has been done on soil carbon or identifying which part of the habitat is sequestering the carbon. Is it always the trees or is it the ground vegetation, in many cases, heather, which is sequestering the carbon? There are many unanswered questions.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The work by Nina Friggens et al, 2020: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.15229&source=gmail&ust=1639754276749000&usg=AOvVaw08QC-HjqqohKcSs-vNeXL9" href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.15229" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://onlinelibrary.wiley.<wbr></wbr>com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.15229</a> <b>‘Tree Planting in Organic Soils does not result in net carbon sequestration on decadal timescales’ </b>should represent a ‘foot on the ball’ moment for upland researchers, in order to avoid hurtling down a blind alley.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijfG3PC7ZjSt08_6peWWKCu_h-WAPVuzbr0xcRrgh2KcbS5hnfiSo3wTTv0tv71tdm4mlLJRCBfaffdnbeVpP9_R1K2yUWCpODlWSoHyIpvEcse1mbaqcg4X690X6dv57WfpOcYtuPvT1OEBB6dzq9fpEpEOeeryQMwVRb1YpuL1vEvg64HnPmux_C=s1506" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="1506" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijfG3PC7ZjSt08_6peWWKCu_h-WAPVuzbr0xcRrgh2KcbS5hnfiSo3wTTv0tv71tdm4mlLJRCBfaffdnbeVpP9_R1K2yUWCpODlWSoHyIpvEcse1mbaqcg4X690X6dv57WfpOcYtuPvT1OEBB6dzq9fpEpEOeeryQMwVRb1YpuL1vEvg64HnPmux_C=w400-h183" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Given the implications, the Park must be honest about the rationale, science and data driving this aim, including how it is able to judge that trees are the right option on a given piece of land. All land is different, even if the Park, itself, is large.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Biodiversity can be enhanced by tree regeneration/planting but not in all cases. Generally, woodland species are faring better in Scotland, in line with increasing tree cover nationally. In contrast, open habitat species in the uplands are declining. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Choosing more woodland over more open habitat is a choice, therefore. The choice being to provide greater habitat extent for those species currently faring better, while fragmenting habitats acknowledged as necessary for species in decline in upland areas. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The mountain hare, now fully protected, has been proven to decline upon tree canopy closure and red-listed wading birds avoid habitats close to areas of afforestation. This is due to the impacts of predators (‘edge effects’) which have extended cover from which to emerge and hunt prey. It is a choice, therefore, to shrink the habitats of birds and mammals who require open upland habitats. The Park must be honest about these trade-offs, what will be achieved and why it is promoting changing the present habitat make-up of the park to deliver that choice.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPSH9cQpOmbkytWUiy42hIST_NhabVVPGAAjQgcHm7AhWC6sgHtbBi6PFPiHE3xfOcr-gQ-u2pMayqYQUD4WmvALA69gjrz2Wq1UbUYlleXbATDaPpSG8Fl8Suh1yIHFkZA6w9zAiFMj0w5rVM-VM9LNrbfGksc47ee4p9jZQqXnpPn2KcK8CrXO3P=s1280" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Mountain hare on managed moorland in snow." border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPSH9cQpOmbkytWUiy42hIST_NhabVVPGAAjQgcHm7AhWC6sgHtbBi6PFPiHE3xfOcr-gQ-u2pMayqYQUD4WmvALA69gjrz2Wq1UbUYlleXbATDaPpSG8Fl8Suh1yIHFkZA6w9zAiFMj0w5rVM-VM9LNrbfGksc47ee4p9jZQqXnpPn2KcK8CrXO3P=w320-h213" title="Mountain Hare by Freck Fraser" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain hare by Freck Fraser</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">While the Park’s woodland expansion aspiration will benefit some, it will negatively impact others, directly. The promotion of more woodland, without fences, for example will continue to reduce the income of businesses who rely on providing deer stalking experiences for visitors because the sporting quarry, deer, will continue to reduce in number. It should be noted that there are already areas across the Park with much lower deer numbers due to unprecedented heavy culling in un-fenced forests.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Deer stalking brings economic, community and environmental benefits. The Park must think carefully about promoting an aim which will directly impact estate/shoot income at a time when some poor shooting years and Covid 19 have impacted these businesses financially. The Economic factsheet accompanying the consultation also makes clear the economic impacts of the pandemic on the Park (14.8% shrinkage in 2020).</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The recent Scottish Government report into grouse shooting socio-economics (2020) described deer stalking as a highly marginal activity in terms of income which nonetheless provided many wider community benefits. It should also be noted that, elsewhere in this consultation document, the Park is considering funding deer management training. Perhaps money could be saved by keeping the existing experienced deer managers, within the Park, in employment?</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Like Scottish Government, the Park must quickly grasp how close the increasing burden of regulation/policy is to eroding confidence and investment in the Scottish game shooting sector. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Jobs are increasingly dependent upon policies which will sensibly balance peoples’ need to make a living with the wider benefits accrued from that employment. SGA members have managed more deer in the last decade than any other representative organisation in Scotland (over 1 million deer). The biodiversity benefits of this should not be forgotten by those shaping policies which could further undermine their economic viability. Deer managers and their jobs (and game managers) make up an interwoven element of the Park’s cultural heritage which cannot be readily sacrificed. Indeed, their contribution outlasts, by more than a century, the very formation of the Cairngorms National Park itself. This is relevant, given the Park’s over-riding founding aim: to enhance the natural and cultural heritage.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgg7QswKk8PKvzY4b8jExqAeTnROtxPD2J6cEttAqs3gj1ckVesHEHDnH-XryqnIbcrDe2-rc3VHTKYRBdOVME_c8CnyHzynyfbB2LnflEKgKkGkQkbmfK5GsZ0E7UYkH2DuvSCwNxIbFt2jqVBNT1MNxjtZ8K8RYrGaXQnHfOAmBJv1bg29oa2j8DW=s2158" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2158" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgg7QswKk8PKvzY4b8jExqAeTnROtxPD2J6cEttAqs3gj1ckVesHEHDnH-XryqnIbcrDe2-rc3VHTKYRBdOVME_c8CnyHzynyfbB2LnflEKgKkGkQkbmfK5GsZ0E7UYkH2DuvSCwNxIbFt2jqVBNT1MNxjtZ8K8RYrGaXQnHfOAmBJv1bg29oa2j8DW=w296-h400" width="296" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><b>A3</b><span style="font-size: large;">: Agree, although the Park should gather relevant science/data on carbon/methane budgets on restoration sites, before and after work is carried out. While peatland restoration can assist a site’s ability to sequester carbon, not all restored sites become carbon sinks. Whether they do or not is regulated by several site-dependent factors, so relevant data should be gathered. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>A4</b>: As a body whose statutory functions encompass Planning and Access, the ability of the Park to enact this aspiration will require legislative change. Further, Scottish Government has indicated that it intends to follow the recommendations of the Deer Working Group report which is for a density of 10 deer per sq km across Scotland. Advocating its own different deer density would mean the Park promoting population levels at odds with every other region of Scotland. This is confusing and unworkable in a practical sense. Please also see response to A2 and the trade-offs inherent in pursuing this, if the Park acquires the statutory powers to do so. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>A5:</b> As a body whose statutory functions encompass Planning and Access, the ability of the Park to enact this aspiration will require legislative change. The consultation document states that the Park only has ‘patchy’ data regarding the extent of gamebird releases within the Park. The sustainability or otherwise of gamebird releasing, therefore, is not known. We would suggest this is an irresponsible rationale for adopting a strategic policy position which would involve the use of public funds and has implications for employment of residents which the Park serves.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Game shooting and farming represent highly significant income generation within the Park’s boundaries as well as other benefits. Subjective evaluations of certain activities founded on information gaps is not a foundation for policy, given the Park’s duties to its residents and businesses. If the Park wishes to evaluate its data (when it is acquired) against a benchmark, it should consult the Code of Good Shooting Practice which is well recognised throughout the industry as the barometer of standards. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In terms of reducing the ‘intensity’ of grouse moor management and encouraging lower density grouse shooting, Scottish Government intends to introduce a licensing system. Upon gathering evidence, it regards this as a proportionate response to concerns voiced from outwith the sector.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">While we share the Park’s aspiration for raptor persecution to reduce further than it has in recent years, the need to tackle ‘intensity’ of management did not feature as a prominent focus of Professor Werritty’s review of the sector, based on all the panel evidence and scientific research. The socio-economic and biodiversity reports which accompanied the Werritty inquiry, clearly indicated that some species benefit from grouse moor management while others don’t. This is similar for all other land uses. Indeed there were more benefits for the species of flora and fauna studied than there were negatives. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDoQAi3tkHw-rWG1eUtVlv4TJl1PF2Xv1S0avjePH0kHEanX-9XeHJNJPTqUcxn2Yg5p8-VxNU--CaoNeas1V77YCda66j8VazszZgg8lp7A46GsYNdp4D8BkHyIVArwfT7q82qtqI93QKwIC9IPJFmKUghrcHf1fHTzTGzZksfmkQblOA590eyukz=s3072" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDoQAi3tkHw-rWG1eUtVlv4TJl1PF2Xv1S0avjePH0kHEanX-9XeHJNJPTqUcxn2Yg5p8-VxNU--CaoNeas1V77YCda66j8VazszZgg8lp7A46GsYNdp4D8BkHyIVArwfT7q82qtqI93QKwIC9IPJFmKUghrcHf1fHTzTGzZksfmkQblOA590eyukz=w640-h320" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>Driven grouse moors were the biggest employers of all moorland land uses studied in that report, something which is relevant to the Park. Proposing a move towards walked-up grouse shooting (presumably the desire of the Park in this section?) means the Park would be promoting an activity which, according to the Government reports, sustains far less employment and investment; investment which also has a return for species conservation and habitat management on many of the Park’s designated sites.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><p></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi3KRBsQaM6yoDmRKlLvLjSUl9s7Uqux35CCEfd86bUSIVe8ooWQDgPmyLJ4wE4KJwAHIx7hQi3TGg8Dkh48AeIGAqiEGqloWI2cQYpjYD-A6FZ-UmCoIAgVuqGKuoMPMZSHDtcxr2lZVQGOEAJ2Uy94kqU3GJXlhbQFsej8uq9mxwUc6v3zvLCUXw6=s1006" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="1006" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi3KRBsQaM6yoDmRKlLvLjSUl9s7Uqux35CCEfd86bUSIVe8ooWQDgPmyLJ4wE4KJwAHIx7hQi3TGg8Dkh48AeIGAqiEGqloWI2cQYpjYD-A6FZ-UmCoIAgVuqGKuoMPMZSHDtcxr2lZVQGOEAJ2Uy94kqU3GJXlhbQFsej8uq9mxwUc6v3zvLCUXw6=w640-h334" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">A recent income/outgoings survey by Scotland’s regional moorland groups found record downstream spending by grouse estates in their communities in 2021, despite a very poor grouse breeding year (<b>£600 000+ spending per estate</b>, on average). Given that the Park has been hit substantially by the pandemic, and the aforementioned points, would it not be appropriate for the Park to follow Scottish Government’s line on grouse moor licensing rather than promote a divergent policy aim which could further destabilise local economies in parts of the Park where grouse shooting is important?</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>A6:</b> The impact of fires in the upland landscape, and the damage they can cause, is determined principally by fire severity, regardless of whether they occur on deep peat, shallow peat or non- peaty soil. The peat is, therefore, not the key issue in fire behaviour. Severity of fire is determined by conditions (ie: prolonged dry conditions), ground moisture and fuel loads. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">High severity fires (wildfires) usually occur where surface vegetation (fuel load) is high and conditions and ground vegetation is dry. High severity fires can cause long lasting damage to habitat and important wildlife breeding sites. If high severity wildfires occur on peatlands, they can damage the functional ability of the peatland to sequester carbon and can burn down into the peat layers, releasing significant amounts of greenhouse gases. These fires can threaten property, they have resource implications for emergency services and can burn for extended periods over extended distances. Summer wildfires at Moray and the Flow Country in 2019, which exhibited all the above factors, released 1m tonnes of carbon and were the worst ever on record. Avoiding this scenario is important in future, particularly in a changing climate where fire seasons are longer.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Those at the heart of fire science acknowledge that well managed muirburn or prescription burning is very different to high severity fire or wildfire. It is carried out by skilled gamekeepers and farmers with knowledge, experience and the right equipment. It is a low severity fire, whether it is undertaken on deep peat, shallow peat or non-peat soils. Done properly, it removes surface vegetation, leaving mosses and understory plants either untouched or in a state where they recover quickly following fire. These fires do not burn down into the layer below the understory ie: where peat will be forming, if the habitat is a peatland. Again, peatland is not an issue in the behaviour of the fire itself. Also, muirburn is carried out at a time of year where the surface conditions enable lighting of fire, but the understory will be wet.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Well managed, the fires will break up monoculture vegetation, will provide nutritious food for sheep, deer and grouse (amber listed) and breeding cover for red-listed birds. Well managed, low severity, fires work well as a wildfire mitigation tool and is internationally recognised as such. Similarly, research undertaken by Climate XChange scientists in Scotland suggests the carbon released into the atmosphere in the process of muirburning is neutralised by the vigorous regrowth of vegetation. This is important.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In our view, therefore, policy makers should be prioritising how we reduce high severity fire and ensuring that those who are licensed to undertake managed muirburn (low severity fire) can do so safely, effectively and beneficially. For this, we would recommend training and the SGA is more than happy to help Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to lead on this and deliver. Our members possess centuries of accumulated knowledge in this and are a resource Scotland is lucky to have.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Rather than fixate on depth of peat, which fails to focus on how fires actually behave, focus should be on vegetation structure/ fuel load, conditions under which fires are set and the provision of training to ensure practitioners can deliver the many benefits which good muirburn can bring, in terms of biodiversity, creating fire breaks across the landscape and, something which is increasingly recognised: helping to retain stored carbon for <i>longer</i> in peatlands. See: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/05/200521161222.htm&source=gmail&ust=1639754276749000&usg=AOvVaw03cfIO2SbhC8VU4mTY2TCc" href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/05/200521161222.htm" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">https://www.sciencedaily.com/<wbr></wbr>releases/2020/05/200521161222.<wbr></wbr>htm</span></a></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In our view, the Park should follow what Scottish Government produces in terms of a new muirburn licensing scheme. However, it is encouraging to see the Park recognise that it must also have a wildfire prevention plan in place. For the reasons above, the SGA believes that well managed muirburn, by trained and licensed professionals, should form a key plank of that future planning. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Park contains many contiguous areas where fuel loads are high. It also welcomes many visitors. An analysis of Scottish Fire and Rescue Service data logs, between 2009 and 2019, showed that accidental fires which the service attended were caused by members of the public (nine tenths of all Scottish fires attended) and were not related to land management activity. These factors, and lengthening fire seasons due to changing weather patterns, makes it essential for the Park to carry out wildfire mitigation.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Following the Moray fire, Park officials were told by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service that such mitigation must include access to water, good access across land for fire crews and fuel load management. We welcome that the Park are taking the threat of wildfire seriously and hope that the input of practitioners, with long experience of how fire reacts in upland landscapes, will be sought when these plans are formulated.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Should the Park seek to introduce heightened restrictions on muirburn which will prevent gamekeepers and farmers from being able to carry out the work they rely on for a living, it should do so in the full knowledge that it will be reducing its own resilience to wildfire.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Not only will it lose the provision of firebreaks and active fuel load management, it will remove the incentive for shoots and farms to continue to hold expensive equipment and invest in training. Many estates within the Park are registered with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to provide help during wildfires and this voluntary service will be compromised or lost.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnAg_dcEGIneP2wdiYogkoCNpcI5UnXY7wtXYLbjN_LpzDcIOz7Lj-oNMUTKA9rzM01fwR6-CTtLviF_dcioShIEXvP4v4rjU3fmv8uQry_gINR6OHydBqghTIvkMAn4o5dfZy8o183YThCwYfDqGl4fq7w1wKzC3Nx14Xq8p4O17SmKPiW0jr2-mr=s1600" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnAg_dcEGIneP2wdiYogkoCNpcI5UnXY7wtXYLbjN_LpzDcIOz7Lj-oNMUTKA9rzM01fwR6-CTtLviF_dcioShIEXvP4v4rjU3fmv8uQry_gINR6OHydBqghTIvkMAn4o5dfZy8o183YThCwYfDqGl4fq7w1wKzC3Nx14Xq8p4O17SmKPiW0jr2-mr=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><b>A9:</b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">We agree on river restoration work but feel there is a need, in the interests of salmon conservation, for the Park to take an active role in addressing water abstraction from the Spey system which has risen at a rate which is no longer sustainable. The two elements should go hand in hand if the Park is serious about wild salmon conservation.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>A10:</b> Connecting habitats is commendable but, in pursuing this, the Park must be realistic with the public and residents about what it is attempting to achieve from it. Connecting habitats will not always produce nature restoration, for example. Other elements must be considered in tandem rather than this being an outcome in itself. Habitat connection provides corridors for wildlife but also for the predators of wildlife (and corridors for visitors). Without active predation management to keep that inter-relationship in some form of balance (in a landscape shaped by humans), this can have negative impacts upon prey species found at much lower densities than the predators which eat them. The failing attempts to save the Capercaillie in the remaining core forests of the Park is a costly case in point.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Park must also do more to research the impacts of un-managed human (and pets) access on sensitive wildlife habitats. The strides taken in promoting the park must be commended. However, this does not always produce the right results for wildlife, whether large sums of public money are being used for connecting habitats or not. There are longer-running National Parks across the world which have recognised that high visitor numbers, while opening up wild attractions to humans, have negative impacts on wildlife and that interventions are necessary to restore a relationship which has gone too far one way. Everyone recognises the physical and mental health benefits of outdoor recreation but there must also be a recognition that wildlife may suffer as a result of increased human presence. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>A14:</b> See answer to A10.<br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>A15:</b> Private green investment, where it meets a strategic target and its impacts can be measured, can be positive. Analysts suggest this market is currently suffering from lack of proper regulation and that many schemes will ultimately fail to provide the benefits promised for land, climate or local communities. </span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">If the park is to chase green finance for climate mitigation reasons, and wants to protect the Park and its residents, it must acquire, firstly, a detailed understanding very quickly of the soil carbon potential it currently has across the park’s landscapes, to ensure new schemes will deliver benefit. This will limit the risk of the removal of benefits which are currently there. If this cannot be measured or tested in any way, the Park is effectively at the mercy of companies or agencies speculating in the carbon market.</span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The Park must consider its responsibilities to its inhabitants when promoting green investment programmes. Poor programmes can displace current land managers and businesses and reinforce inequality if there is not a suitability test which can help protect peoples’ interests.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com