BASC welcomes significant improvements to GL43
BASC has welcomed the announcement by Defra of a new general licence (GL45) for the release of gamebirds on or near certain Special Protection Areas in England.
BASC issues reminder on gamebird reporting condition
BASC is issuing a legal reminder to shoots releasing pheasants and red-legged partridges on or within 500 metres of a European Protected Site in England.
The introduction of a new general licence (GL43) earlier this year has made it a legal requirement to inform Natural England of the number of gamebirds released, and in what location.
Details of any relevant Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) consent under which the activity is operating is also required.
A failure to report the release of 50 or more birds within one month of doing so could leave shoots at risk of prosecution or having the use of the general licence withdrawn.
There is an online reporting form within GL43 and further information on the new general licence can be found here.
Complete the poultry register
We would also remind members that you are legally required to complete the poultry register if you keep more than 50 birds of a relevant type; this includes gamebirds.
Registration must take place within one month of the release date.
Members requiring further advice on either reporting function can contact BASC for assistance.
Online advice service
Natural England is offering an online advice service to help shoot managers and gamekeepers decide whether they can operate under the conditions of the general licence or will require an individual licence for the release of gamebirds. The advice service is available here.
In order to keep improving the provision, Natural England is asking anyone who uses the advice service to provide feedback on their experience. You can do this by clicking the link here.
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Join free BASC webinar on gamebird releasing on protected sites
BASC is inviting all shoot owners, managers and gamekeepers affected by changes to gamebird releasing in England to a free webinar on 4 June.