The GBRC was established in 2003 as a joint venture by La Societe Guernesiaise and the States, however it has not been fully functional since it lost its one full-time employee at the beginning of 2024.
The Nature Commission has now taken on the management of the records centre, the central hub for collating and sharing information about the wildlife and natural environment of Guernsey, Herm, Sark, and the island’s territorial waters, on behalf of the States.
The GBRC was established by Charles David in 2003.
‘Charles was the island’s leading entomologist and created the centre in order to collate and share data on the island’s natural history,’ said Jamie Hooper, managing director at Environment Guernsey.
‘With the support of the States, Environment Guernsey ran the centre for over 20 years before handing the operation over to the Nature Commission. After a hiatus of a couple of years, we are delighted the centre is now ready for a relaunch and look forward to working with the new team.’
The centre brings together records from individuals, community groups, and organisations to build a clear picture of the island’s biodiversity, from birds and wildflowers to marine species and habitats.
Nature Commission CEO Jessi Jennings said that the reopening of the GBRC marked an important step in improving how the island recorded and protected its natural environment.
‘The GBRC is a resource for everyone. From experienced naturalists and environmental professionals to students, researchers, and members of the public with an interest in Guernsey’s wildlife. People can contribute by submitting their wildlife sightings through iRecord or iNaturalist, where records are shared with the GBRC,’ she said.
‘By collecting and analysing this information, the GBRC supports research, conservation, and environmental decision-making. The data it holds helps ensure that Guernsey’s land, marine, and freshwater environments are managed using accurate, up-to-date evidence.’
n For more information, please visit www.gbrc.org.gg or contact office@naturecommission.gg
