Both native and alien species are spreading around the world due to global warming, changes in land use and increased mobility. Mountain regions have so far been less affected than other areas, but a future increase in range expanding species is also to be expected at higher altitudes. Good communication between all relevant stakeholders is essential in order to anticipate potential problems or opportunities, prioritise species for management and share management experience.
Stakeholders from the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland, who have experience with range expanding species met in Chur on 8th March 2023 for an exchange. The primary aim of the workshop was to identify and discuss current and future challenges and opportunities in connection with range expanding species in rapidly changing mountain ecosystems in Switzerland. Through these discussions it became clear that the distinction between native and alien species is sometimes blurred and that further dialogue is therefore also required. In this context, it was felt that a stronger emphasis should be placed on the impact of a species, regardless of its origin. Indeed, the impacts of range expanding species was identified as an important knowledge gap for further research. Participants also called for a closer exchange with stakeholders in future research projects to share experiences and knowledge. Events such as this workshop bring together scientists with practitioners, which leads to important new insights on both sides. In general, the workshop highlighted the importance of long-term monitoring, both of range expanding species and their interactions with other species, as well as their impacts on ecosystem services and their driving factors. Discussions such as those that took place in this workshop are key to identifying differences of opinion that influence the prioritisation of problems and measures, and to developing joint strategies for adaptive management.
