Is my site eligible?
A site can qualify to join the Network if it meets two criteria:
(1) Demonstrated importance for shorebirds
(2) Agreement of responsible entity
Demonstrated importance for shorebirds
A Site’s importance for shorebirds is based on peak species counts or on calculated turn-over rates. A site can qualify by meeting the biological criteria in one of three categories:
WHSRN created the “Landscape” category to accommodate vast areas or complex habitats where defining a “site” is not feasible. Such areas often encompass a multitude of stakeholders and landowners that are represented by one overarching entity submitting the WHSRN nomination.
- Sites/Landscapes of Hemispheric Importance:
At least 500,000 shorebirds annually; AND/OR
At least 30% of the biogeographic population for a species - Sites of International Importance:
At least 100,000 shorebirds annually; AND/OR
at least 10% of the biogeographic population for a species - Sites of Regional Importance:
At least 20,000 shorebirds annually; AND/OR
At least 1% of the biogeographic population for a species
Click here to download a list of current shorebird population estimates in the Americas and each species’ minimum threshold for qualification as a WHSRN Site.
Agreement of Responsible Entity
For WHSRN sites, a letter is required from the responsible entity in voluntary good faith to the following three commitments that are core to the designation process.
For WHSRN landscapes, the responsible entity would work with additional landowners, managers, and other stakeholders to uphold the same good faith commitment.
Responsible entities must agree in writing to:
- Include shorebird conservation as one of their top priorities;
- Engage in management practices that protect, maintain, or enhance shorebird habitat and continued use of the site by shorebirds;
- Update WHSRN Executive Office on changes to the site’s or landscape’s boundaries, degree of protection, or point-of-contact
What is a Responsible Entity?
A responsible entity is an institution or individual that holds decision-making power on the management of the ecosystems at stake
A responsible entity includes:
- Federal or national ministry or agency
- Sub-national ministry or agency
- Govt-delegated management e.g. to an NGO
- Joint management board, ex: Grasslands
- Individual landowners
- For-profit/corporate managers, owners, or leasees
- Indigenous people’ protected areas and territories established and run by indigenous peoples
- Community conserved areas –run by local communities
