Natural Environment Group
The Natural Environment Group (NEG) was set up in 2004 and takes forward issues and actions identified by the annual survey for the Solent Marine Sites (SEMS) management scheme. It is a subsidiary group of the overall SEMS Management Group and reports to that group, it meets biannually in spring and autumn. Natural England Chair the group and the Solent Forum office provides the secretariat.
NEG Newsletter
NEG produces an annual newsletter, the last two editions are available below.
Aims and Objectives
NEG's primary aim is:
'to provide a cost-effective mechanism to coordinate the implementation of cross-cutting nature conservation actions stemming from the many overlapping statutory and non-statutory documents'.
Download the Group's Terms of Reference (2022).
Objectives
- To promote the nature conservation value of the Solent.
- To provide guidance on managing, protecting and improving our coastal environment.
- To coordinate nature conservation actions arising from Strategic Guidance for the Solent and other documents as identified.
- To support and complement the work of Natural England, Environment Agency, Local Authorities and other agencies relating to nature conservation management regimes and processes, such as coastal Biodiversity Action Plans.
- To inform the Solent European Marine Sites process.
- To identify and implement projects that demonstrate adaptive management.
- To establish a monitoring and management system that will identify gaps in baseline data, prioritise research and outline management requirements.
- To coordinate local community action focusing on environmental enhancement of the coastal zone.