1. Module 7 Eradications

2. Learning Outcomes By the end of this module you should be able to: –Know what eradication is –When and where it might be undertaken –What conditions must be met for eradications to be successful –Recognise the key steps in undertaking an eradication operation

3. What is eradication? Eradication is the complete removal of a population of a targeted IAS in a set area within a defined timeframe

4. When is eradication appropriate? Eradication is the most appropriate option as soon as an alien species has been detected – during the lag phase Population size Time Carrying capacity Lag phase Explosion phase

5. What conditions need to be staisfied for successful eradication? All individuals must be put at risk Individuals must be removed faster than they reproduce Re-invasion risks must be near zero

6. Other important factors should include: Involving only field operators who are committed to the eradication Designing an eradication operation so that it succeeds at first attempt Monitoring to detect changes Consistent and appropriate support from stakeholders

7. Are there particular areas that offer better chances for eradication success?

8. Deciding to proceed with eradication There are many important issues to consider in deciding to proceed with eradication –Desired outcomes –Priorities –Available information –Risks

9. Assessing Feasibility Feasibility assessments allow decisions to be made about the risks and costs of an eradication operation in relation to anticipated benefits

10. Ecological factors

11. Logistics

12. Social factors

13. CHOOSING THE METHOD/S OF ERADICATION Choosing the right combination of methods, their timing, and the people to apply them will be critical to your success

14. What methods might be used? Mechanical

15. Chemical

16. Biological

17. How to choose the methods Know what range of techniques are available and which ones would be most appropriate for your site

18. Measuring change - Monitoring

19. SUMMARY Eradication is about achieving desired outcomes Insular habitats are uniquely suited as places where IAS may be eradicated where it is feasible it is the best option for achieving and sustaining desired outcomes. Monitoring of IAS – especially when they are at low densities, will be important – as will outcome monitoring Eradication can only be justified if the risks of re- invasion can be effectively managed.