Assess genetic diversity risks across Scotland and ensure mitigation of genetic diversity risks via Gene Conservation Units and other means. Genetic Scorecards for 50 marine and terrestrial species compiled and published by end 2025. Twenty-five Gene Conservation Units registered by mid-2025, with 50 registered by end-2028.
Objective 4: Protect and support the recovery of vulnerable and important species and habitats
Priority Action 21. Develop effective species reintroduction and reinforcement programmes.
Publication of genetic scorecards for 50 species and formal registration of Gene Conservation Units (GCUs) is not yet evidenced in published delivery outputs. NatureScot has developed a Genetic Scorecard Indicator, which is used to assess genetic diversity risk in selected wild species as part of biodiversity monitoring and reporting. This is a scientific indicator framework rather than a delivery mechanism for a national set of 50 published scorecards.
NatureScot conservation genetics guidance sets out how genetic data can be used in species conservation planning, including assessing population viability and inbreeding risk, but this is guidance and methodological support rather than evidence of implemented national programmes for GCUs or scorecards.
Gene Conservation Units are referenced by NatureScot in relation to conservation of genetic diversity in native tree populations, where specific forest areas are managed to maintain genetic variation (for example within native woodland management approaches). However, these examples are site- and species-specific and do not evidence a published national system delivering 25–50 registered GCUs across Scotland.
NatureScot’s Genetic Scorecard methodology provides a structured scientific approach for assessing genetic risk in wild species populations, supporting conservation prioritisation and monitoring. Gene Conservation Units are an established conservation approach for maintaining genetic diversity in managed populations (particularly native trees), where specific sites are managed to preserve genetic variation. However, ecological impact at national scale depends on wider implementation beyond pilot or site-based examples and integration into conservation decision-making frameworks, which is not yet evidenced in published delivery outputs.
As a result, ecological outcomes remain policy-intent based with partial scientific tools in place, but without demonstrated national implementation of scorecards or GCUs at the scale set out in the strategy.
NatureScot – Genetic Scorecard Indicator
NatureScot – Genetic Scorecard methodology
NatureScot – Gene Conservation Units in Scotland
Develop effective species recovery, reintroduction and reinforcement programmes drawing on partnership work on Species at Risk prioritisation, Species on the Edge programme, and evaluation of drivers.
Develop and implement national plans for conserving species groups for which Scotland holds internationally important populations including lichens and bryophytes (end of 2025), freshwater pearl mussels (end of 2028), herptiles (end of 2025) and national curlew plan (end of 2027).
Undertake measures to reduce human pressures to give habitats and species (especially specialists; arctic/alpine) more chance of surviving and improve the status of red listed species in Scotland.
Raise public awareness of science and practice around conservation translocations through public engagement.
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