The Ulster Wildlife Trust has introduced a new Biodiversity Officer to continue the drive for conservation action within Fermanagh.

Emma McLaughlin from Omagh will carry on the role recently being carried out by her predecessor Martina Magee.

Emma studied for a degree in Environmental Science at the University of Ulster, Coleraine and completed a work placement as an Ecological Consultant with Marenco in Belfast for a year as part of her studies. As Fermanagh is a biodiversity haven, she says she is delighted to have been placed here.

The project run by the Ulster Wildlife Trust in conjunction with Fermanagh District Council, is funded by Environment and Heritage Service and the Landfill Communities Fund.

The Local Biodiversity Action Plan or LBAP is a tailor-made strategy that will be specific to the county. It identifies the key habitats that are of local importance and the issues concerned with them, with the common thread of enhancing and promoting nature conservation for generations to come. The first year of the Fermanagh LBAP, commenced with an audit, a detailed assessment of the priority habitats and species present in the district.

"The audit is currently in its final stages of preparation and is due to be published shortly," Emma explained.

"The second year of the LBAP will focus on drawing up plans to protect habitats and species identified as being of local concern and importance". In addition a steering group has been established, comprising representatives from a variety of organisations, who are responsible for ensuring the Fermanagh LBAP takes the right course."

Emma is looking forward to the range of opportunities the role of Biodiversity Officer offers.

"To me, Fermanagh is a real gem where biodiversity is concerned. It has such a broad variety of truly beautiful landscapes and wildlife that I am genuinely looking forward to both maintaining and enhancing the natural heritage here".