Habitat Survey and Mapping

Summary

The course is an introduction to habitat survey and the main principles involved and assumes no prior knowledge of surveying.

Description

The course is aimed at those who have not carried surveys such as Phase One or the new UK Habitat Classification survey. A basic level of plant identification skill is assumed because you cannot expect to carry out a survey of habitats i.e. vegetation without this skill, but informal help with plant identification is given throughout.

The first morning will include an overview of the main survey methods with a focus on the Phase One habitat survey, and how to prepare for a survey. There will be a short outdoor session in the afternoon. We will then look at mapping protocols

On day 2 we will carry out a field exercise identifying and mapping habitats in the field. We look at the new UK Habitat Classification survey in the afternoon.


The course is about the method and not how to identify plants. Hopefully a few people will know a few species. However, we will be covering a few indicator plants.

The course is delivered through a mix of presentation, question and answer sessions, exercises and field work

Who Should Attend?

Early career ecologists/Land Managers

Knowledge Level

Beginner

Prior Knowledge

Basic plant identification assumed No formal I.D. training is given but support will be given on the event as and when required

Learning Outcomes

• An understanding of what a habitat survey is and why it might be done.
• An understanding of recognised habitat survey, classification and mapping techniques: namely Phase 1 and UK Habitat Classification surveys.
• Knowledge of how to effectively plan a habitat survey.
• Identification of some commonly encountered habitat categories based on basic botanical identification.
• An understanding of how to map habitats
• Experience (via a practical session) of classifying habitats and producing a habitat map.

Refreshments

Refreshments available please bring your own lunch.

Tickets