Plant pests and pathogens continue to affect Scotland’s natural environment, with impacts most visible on tree species such as ash. However, many non‑tree plants of conservation concern receive far less attention, despite also facing risks from accidental introductions during activities like habitat restoration, plant relocations, and peatland work. While biosecurity resources exist, they are fragmented across policy areas (plant health, animal health, and invasive non‑native species), and stakeholders working in the wider environment often lack the clear guidance needed to assess risks effectively. This is compounded by limited pest information for many native plants and uncertainty over where to report issues in non‑forestry contexts.

 

To address these gaps, the project worked with statutory bodies, land managers, and conservation practitioners to develop the Plant Health Biosecurity Plan (PHBP) template - a practical tool to help users systematically assess biosecurity risks before undertaking work in natural habitats. The PHBP focuses on risk pathways rather than detailed pest lists, making it more accessible for non‑specialists, and includes sections on site information, project description, risk management, monitoring, awareness, and outbreak response. Stakeholders were generally supportive and highlighted the need for worked examples, clear guidance, and potential integration with licensing and funding processes. The final output is designed to be adaptable across a wide range of conservation activities, with the recommendation that it be refined through continued user feedback and is available as an online resource to be downloaded and populated to meet users needs.