scholarly journals Reducing uncertainty in impact assessments for alien species

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
David A. Clarke ◽  
David J. Palmer ◽  
Chris McGrannachan ◽  
Treena I. Burgess ◽  
Steven L. Chown ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Alien Species ◽  
Life Histories ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
A Priori ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Assessment Process ◽  
Insect Species ◽  
The Impact

AbstractImpact assessment is a widely used and cost-effective tool for prioritising invasive alien species. With the number of alien and invasive alien species expected to increase, reliance on impact assessment tools for the identification of species that pose the greatest threats will continue to grow. Given the importance of such assessments for management and resource allocation, it is critical to understand the uncertainty involved and what effect this may have on the outcome. Using an uncertainty typology and insects as a model taxon, we identified and classified the sources and types of uncertainty when performing impact assessments on alien species. We assessed 100 alien insect species across two rounds of assessments with each species independently assessed by two assessors. Agreement between assessors was relatively low for all three EICAT components (mechanism, severity, confidence) after the first round. For the second round, we revised guidelines and gave assessors access to each other’s assessments which improved agreement by between 20-30%. Of the 12 potential reasons for assessment discrepancies identified a priori, 11 occurred. The most frequent sources (and types) of uncertainty (i.e. differences between assessment outcomes for the same species) were: incomplete information searches (systematic error), unclear mechanism and/or extent of impact (subjective judgment due to a lack of knowledge), and limitations of the assessment framework (context dependence). In response to these findings, we identify actions to reduce uncertainty in the impact assessment process, particularly for assessing speciose taxa with diverse life histories such as Insecta. Evidence of environmental impact was available for most insect species, and (of the non-random original subset of species assessed) 14 or 29% of those with evidence were identified as high impact species (with either ‘Major’ or ‘Massive’ impact). Although uncertainty in risk assessment, including impact assessments, can never be eliminated, identifying and communicating its source and variety is a first step toward its reduction and a more reliable assessment outcome, regardless of the taxa being assessed.

scholarly journals How Canadian librarians practice and assess individualized research consultations in academic libraries

2017 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 148-157 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karine Fournier ◽  
Lindsey Sikora
Keyword(s):  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Assessment Methods ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Assessment Process ◽  
Academic Librarians ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Reference Services ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Evaluation And Assessment

Purpose Though we live in a digital era, libraries offer significant hours of in-person reference services, in combination with online reference services. Nevertheless, an increase in requests for in-person, individualized research consultations (IRCs) over the last few years has been observed. IRCs between librarians and students are common practice in academic institutions. While these sessions can be deemed useful for patrons, as they are tailored to their specific needs, however, they can also be time consuming for the librarians. Therefore, it is important to evaluate this service, and assess its impact in order to ensure that the users are getting the most out of their sessions. The purpose of this paper is to gather information on the evaluation and assessment tools that Canadian institutions are using to obtain feedback, measure their impact and improve their consultation services. Design/methodology/approach A bilingual (French and English) web-based questionnaire was issued, with a generic definition of IRCs provided. The questionnaire included general demographics and background information on IRC practices among Canadian academic librarians, followed by reflective questions on the assessment process of such practices. The questionnaire was sent to Canadian academic librarians via e-mail, using professional librarian associations’ listservs, and Twitter was used for dissemination as well. Findings Major findings of the survey concluded that the disciplines of health sciences and medicine, as well as the arts and humanities are the heaviest users of the IRC service model. On average, these sessions are one hour in length, provided by librarians who often require advanced preparation time to adequately help the user, with infrequent follow-up appointments. It was not surprising that a lack of assessment methods for IRCs was identified among Canadian academic libraries. Most libraries have either no assessment in place for IRCs, or they rely heavily on informal feedback from users, comments from faculty members and so on. A small portion of libraries use usage statistics to assess their IRCs service, but other means of assessment are practically non-existent. Research limitations/implications The survey conducted was only distributed to Canadian academic libraries. Institutions across the USA and other countries that also perform IRCs may have methods for evaluating and assessing these sessions which the authors did not gather; therefore, the evidence is biased. As well, each discipline approaches IRCs very differently; therefore, it is challenging to compare the evaluation and assessment methods between each discipline. Furthermore, the study’s population is unknown, as the authors did not know the exact number of librarians or library staff providing IRCs by appointment in academic Canadian institution. While the response rate was reasonably good, it is impossible to know if the sample is representative of the population. Also, it needs to be acknowledged that the study is exploratory in nature as this is the first study solely dedicated at examining academic librarians’ IRC practices. Further research is needed. As future research is needed to evaluate and assess IRCs with an evidence-based approach, the authors will be conducting a pre-test and post-test to assess the impact of IRC on students’ search techniques. Originality/value Evidence-based practice for IRCs is limited. Very few studies have been conducted examining the evaluation and assessment methods of these sessions; therefore, it was believed that a “lay of the land,” so to speak, was needed. The study is exploratory in nature, as this is the first study solely dedicated at examining the evaluation and assessment methods of academic librarians’ IRC practices.

scholarly journals The ecology of ponds in the context of human activity and geography – environmental DNA and beyond

2021 ◽  
Vol 4 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karolina Bacela-Spychalska ◽  
Annette Taugbøl ◽  
Wiesław Babik ◽  
Maciej Pabijan ◽  
David Strand ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Environmental Dna ◽  
Genomic Variation ◽  
Genomic Diversity ◽  
Parasitic Fungus ◽  
Detailed Knowledge ◽  
Geographic Regions ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Pond Ecosystems

Pond ecosystems are hotspots of freshwater biodiversity, often containing many rare and protected species that are not commonly found elsewhere (Harper et al. 2018;Harper et al. 2019). However, even if they constitute c.a. 30% of freshwaters by area, still not enough effort has been put into pond monitoring and management and pond ecosystems are hence relatively poorly understood. Results of ECOPOND project will lead to add valuable knowledge upon pond diversity in geographic gradient taking for consideration human impact by comparing rural and urban areas. The sample design in ECOPOND includes six geographic regions, spanning from the south of Poland to the middle of Norway, where we will sample five replicates of urban and rural ponds in close geographic proximity, making it possible to test the impact of urbanization on biodiversity and biotic homogenization across latitude. We will sample all ponds at spring and late summer, making it possible to assess also seasonality in biodiversity. ECOPOND will utilize environmental DNA and RNA to perform biodiversity screening. The extracted eDNA and eRNA fragments will be amplified with the use of several selected markers for vertebrates, invertebrates, fungi and bacteria. Comparisons between eDNA and eRNA metabarcoding are hypothesized to allow inference between present and past diversity, as eRNA is thought to be only available from live organisms in the community. Moreover, ECOPOND aims at testing the effects of selected invasives species that can have on whole ecosystems. By sampling a range of biotic and abiotic parameters describing studied ponds, we will incorporate the available data for the ponds and employ occupancy modelling methods to assess the habitat preferences of selected invasive alien species. Then we will develop a method that can contribute towards an earlywarning system of evaluating threats to ecosystem status. One of the focus species will be the parasitic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), an infectious fungal pathogen that has caused a number of amphibian declines and extinctions. The European amphibians seem less affected by the parasite at present. However, the fungi could be a direct driver of reduced genetic variation due to selection, or directly reduce the infected amphibian’s overall fitness by reducing the microbiotic diversity on their skin, which in many cases acts as a second immune system. ECOPOND will therefore provide data on genomic variation (using RADseq) for two amphibian species: the smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) and the common toad (Bufo bufo). We will investigate populations of these species inhabiting ponds that are infected and not infected by Bd as well as collect data on their skin microbes (identified using metabarcoding). We will also contrast the genomic diversity between the replicated urban/rural setup and look for repeatable genomic changes. This setup will also be compared for the genomic variation for a potential native prey, the blue-tailed dragonfly, as will ponds with and without fish and/or amphibians (possibly also comparing between native and IAS top-predators) in order to look for predatory selective sweeps in the genome and transcriptome (experimental setup). All ponds will also be analyzed for over 20 water quality parameters and include data on a range of site characteristics that will be used as explanatory variables in all models. ECOPOND will compare large datasets across large geographic regions and will provide detailed knowledge of biodiversity patterns in vertebrates, invertebrates, fungal and microbial species, as well as genomic composition and skin biodiversity for animals inhabiting the same ponds set in an urban context. As a total, ECOPOND will obtain data on the location and status of biodiversity interests, gather data that can help in preventing the establishment of invasive alien species, and eradicating or controlling species that have already become established. And finally, ECOPOND will work closely with stakeholders and develop statistical techniques that can be used for monitoring, detection and protection of biodiversity.

MARINE MONITORING: CHRONIC OR ACUTE PROBLEMS

1992 ◽  
Vol 32 (1) ◽  
pp. 413
Author(s):  
Peter Farrell ◽  
John Yeates
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Impact ◽  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Environmental Impact Assessment ◽  
Oil And Gas ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Scientific Validity ◽  
North West ◽  
Regulatory Authorities ◽  
Census Methods ◽  
The Impact

A mosaic-like compendium of information on the marine biotic environment of the North West Shelf has been compiled from a number of different sources. The areas most valued coincide with those most vulnerable to disturbance. Regulatory authorities require some form of impact assessment to be carried out by oil and gas explorers and producers as a condition of operation. Considerable expenditure is incurred annually by these companies in complying with these requirements, but current assessment methods do not always consider the scale of possible impacts nor the scientific validity of the results. Despite acceptance, and therefore implied approval of these assessments by the regulatory authorities, adjustments should be made to the current methodology to improve the cost effectiveness of the assessments and to improve the scientific validity of the results.Design of environmental impact assessment of exploration and production operations should consider the relative weighting given to potential acute versus chronic impacts. Prediction of possible impacts enables quantifiable relevant parameters for impact assessment to be identified. Monitoring of indicator species is a cost-effective method of detecting acute effects. Community census methods can be used to detect chronic effects.Statistical analysis of data is a vital, yet frequently ignored, aspect of environmental impact assessment, as is the depositing of voucher specimens for future reference. Statistical analysis can be based on either changes in the difference between specific parameters at the impact and control sites, or comparison of variance between sites over time. Decisions regarding sample area and number of sample replicates should be made based on the required precision of the assessment.

The New European Regulatory Impact Assessment - In Theory and Practice

elni Review ◽  
2007 ◽  
pp. 9-17
Author(s):  
Ekkehard Hofmann
Keyword(s):  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Policy Option ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Assessment Process ◽  
Assessment Practice ◽  
Regulatory Impact ◽  
Basic Features ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Assessment Reports ◽  
Regulatory Impact Assessment

With its communication on impact assessment of June 5, 2002, the European Commission has initiated a new era concerning the preparation and explanation of European legislative action. The Commission now strives for an integrated assessment of all major initiatives, taking into account each and every segment concerned. The Commission expressly thought of the introduction of the “Regulatory Impact Assessment” (RIA) as a means of justifying a chosen policy option. The impact assessment process is part of the Commission’s efforts to implement the subsidiarity principle (Art. 5 section 2 TEEC) in the area of governance and better lawmaking. According to the Secretariat General, the process aims to improve the quality of Commission proposals as well as to improve and simplify the regulatory environment. This paper explicates the basic features of the Commission’s approach, illustrated by three examples for impact assessments that have been carried out under the new regime: it focuses on the question as to how recent impact assessment practice fared compared to the standards set by the Commission itself. However, the (potential) role of assessment reports as a means to foster transparency even in the judicial context seems to be underdiscussed in the literature. Hence, the article examines the material legal requirements concerning the substance of governmental reasoning, and legal demands as to whether and how to present explanatory statements under Community law. In the end, there is an attempt to assess the pros and cons of using assessment reports as statements of basis and purpose pursuant Art. 253 TEEC.

scholarly journals Assessing the Impacts of Rural Development Plan Measures on the Sustainability of Agricultural Holdings Using a PMP Model

Land ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (5) ◽  
pp. 446
Author(s):  
Christina Moulogianni ◽  
Thomas Bournaris
Keyword(s):  
Rural Development ◽  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Agricultural Land ◽  
Environmental Indicators ◽  
Development Plan ◽  
Assessment Process ◽  
Northern Greece ◽  
Ex Post ◽  
Assessment Guidelines ◽  
The Impact

Rural Development Plan (RDP) measures support farmers in improving the sustainability of their agricultural holdings. The implementation of these policies has economic, social, and environmental impacts, which are monitored either ex-ante, ongoing, or ex-post, as required from the European Commission impact assessment guidelines. In this frame, this paper aims to assess the impacts of RDP measures on the sustainability of agricultural holdings. For this reason, a positive mathematical programming (PMP) model was developed and implemented in combination with a set of economic, social, and environmental indicators. The model was used to assess the ex-post impacts of the measure titled ‘Modernization of agricultural holdings’ of the Greek RDP 2007–2013. This research was conducted on a sample of 219 agricultural holdings in a region of northern Greece. The impacts were measured through the changes of the crop plan in the agricultural land. The results show that the measure has positive economic impacts, negative social impacts, and negative impacts on most of the environmental indicators. The results also underline the significant role of the impact assessment process in supporting policymakers in understanding the impacts of their policies.

scholarly journals Optimization and validation of a cost‐effective protocol for biosurveillance of invasive alien species

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
pp. 1999-2014
Author(s):  
Yoamel Milián‐García ◽  
Robert Young ◽  
Mary Madden ◽  
Erin Bullas‐Appleton ◽  
Robert H. Hanner
Keyword(s):  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Cost Effective

scholarly journals IMPACT OF INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES ON BIODIVERSITY AND POPULATION STRUCTURE IN MORNI HILLS OF WESTERN HIMALAYA

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anup Chandra ◽  
Ashok Kumar Dhakad
Keyword(s):  
Population Structure ◽  
Species Richness ◽  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Western Himalaya ◽  
Lantana Camara ◽  
Mountain Range ◽  
Forest Communities ◽  
Study Sites ◽  
The Impact

Species diversity, especially in forests, is one of the most important indices used to evaluate forest productivity, sustainability of forest communities and its ecological functioning and stand structure. Invasive alien species (IAS) are usually considered to be the second greatest threat to biodiversity after habitat destruction. The present study aims to characterize estimate the species richness, dominance of certain species distribution and population structure of major species in the study areas i.e. Kalka, Morni and Pinjore forest range of Panchkula Forest Division, Haryana lies under the Shiwalik mountain range of Western Himalaya. To achieve this, phytosociological study was carried out using quadrat method to assess the impact of IAS on plant diversity. We took twenty quardrats laid down in each site (10×10m for tree layer; 3×3m for shrubby layer and 1×1m for herbaceous flora) in both, invaded sites and control sites (without any IAS). In the study sites, Lantana camara was the major threat to the native flora. In general, diversity index (H) was higher at control site, however, species richness was found to be more in Lantana infested sites for trees and more or less equal for herbs and shrubs in control sites. This indicates the invasion of L. camara after the establishment of tree species in study sites. In all sites, the seedlings have significant more number than saplings and trees. But the conversion of saplings into trees was poor as well as the production of seedlings and their survival rate was very less or drastically reduced. Thus, there is an urgent need of conservation and management of alien invasive species in Himalayas and other parts of Indian forests. Lantana camara infestation can be managed if we utilize it for making handmade papers, handicrafts, baskets, toys, etc. by involving the self help groups and village forest communities.

scholarly journals IMPACT OF INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES AND GENDER

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 78-84
Author(s):  
Sajani Shrestha
Keyword(s):  
Invasive Species ◽  
Alien Species ◽  
Invasive Alien Species ◽  
Habitat Degradation ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Biodiversity Loss ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Ecological Change ◽  
Fuel Wood ◽  
The Impact

Invasive Alien Species (IAS) is considered the second major cause of biodiversity loss and habitat degradation. They pose a serious threat to different ecosystems of Nepal such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries and natural systems. Invasive alien species affect people's livelihoods and human well-being. Some species are important sources of fuel wood, fodder, timber and food products for local households and communities. Similarly, some species hold cultural, spiritual and recreational significance. In contrast, they also harm livelihoods and increase vulnerability via land encroachment and reduction in mobility or access. In some cases, they also diminish the abundance of natural resources used by households and reduce agricultural production. This results in a loss of their income and increases vulnerability. Furthermore, some invasive species have also negative implications on human health and safety. Likewise, they are responsible for reducing the cultural value of landscapes. Invasive Alien Species are well-recognized drivers of social-ecological change. Extensive research on invasive species in Nepal has yet to be done. Therefore, the impact of invasive species on livelihoods and human well-being is a lesser-known concept.  The effect of benefits and costs analysis of invasive species on livelihoods and human well-being remains pivotal for policy-making and management. This article is based on the development of a comprehensive national strategy and plan of action to control and manage IAS in Nepal. It discusses the broader aspect and status of IAS in Nepal.

scholarly journals GEOINFO: impactos sociais do repositório de dados de pesquisa da EMBRAPA

2020 ◽  
pp. 145-149
Author(s):  
Daniela Maciel Pinto ◽  
Geraldo Stachetti Rodrigues ◽  
Gustavo Spadotti Amaral Castro ◽  
Gisele Vilela Freitas ◽  
Angelo Mansur Mendes ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Impact Assessment ◽  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Information Science ◽  
Science Studies ◽  
Agricultural Research ◽  
Research Data ◽  
Social Dimension ◽  
Assessment Process ◽  
Data Repositories ◽  
The Impact

GeoInfo is a repository that provides the spatial research data generated by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) to understand the dynamics of agriculture in Brazilian territory. Considering the efforts required for the implantation and institutionalization of the repository, the absence of Information Science studies related to the investigation of the impact of the uses made from the data and information made available in research data repositories, as well as the impact assessment process used by EMBRAPA since 1989, it is opportune to investigate the impact of the repository for its target audience, that is, geoscience specialists. Thus, the objective of this work is to present the results of an impact assessment carried out with GeoInfo, based on the “Ambitec-TICs: Module of criteria and impact indicators for Information and Communication Technologies”, specifically for the social dimension, existing at Ambitec-TICs

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