Biogenetic Reserves

This is a spatial dataset containing the boundaries of Biogenetic Reserves in Wales. Biogenetic Reserves aim to conserve European flora, fauna and natural areas especially heathlands and dry grasslands that although common in one country, may be scarce in another. In this way a store of genetic material - the genes of plants and animals - is kept for the future, hence the term Biogenetic. To qualify for this designation, sites in the UK must first be Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or otherwise designated. The Bern Convention - signed by the UK government in 1982, led to the establishment of this European network of Biogenetic Reserves.