The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) are reminding all potential entrants to their Habitat Enhancement Initiative (HEI) Award Scheme that entries must be submitted by 30 June 2000.

The HEI Award Scheme aims to reward the actions of individuals and groups involved in protecting, improving and enhancing aquatic habitats. This is the first time that the Award Scheme has been run and it is already attracting some promising entries. The judging panel comprises Ken Collins , SEPA Chairman John Markland, Chairman of Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Stuart Housden, the Director of RSPB Scotland, Steve Sankey, Chief Executive of SWT.

SEPA has already been involved in 29 external sites for which it has provided good management practice advice with regard to the protection of wildlife habitats and/or species.

SEPA have also been involved with habitat enhancement of a 3km stretch of the Water of Leith. The work has included the creation of improved wetland habitat and the protection of sections of the river bank. One of the objectives of the project is to increase the area of suitable habitat for otter. This is just one of several demonstration sites that have been set up through HEI.

Katherine Bradshaw, HEI Project Manager, SEPA said:
"As an organisation, SEPA is committed to the protection of the environment. What everyone does today impacts on the environment in later years. It is important we all understand the consequences of our actions.

"The HEI is one way of doing this. The Award scheme wants to reward the efforts of groups who recognise the need for sustainable development and publicise the benefits that have resulted from the efforts."

Entry to the award scheme is open to all individuals, schools, community groups, local authorities, industries, agricultural groups and foresters who demonstrate environmental enhancement measures with regard to biodiversity and sustainable development.

HEI promotes the conservation and enhancement of the natural beauty and amenity of inland and coastal waters, and of land associated with such waters in Scotland. These environments provide important aquatic habitats, which support a wide range of species. However, these are often subject to a range of threats, particularly pollution, development and poor management practices.

Application forms and further information are available from HEI Staff at Riccarton on 0131 449 7296, or Ross Doughty SEPA West Region (01355 574200) or Mike Davidson SEPA North Region (01224 248338).