Indicator Plants of Woodland, Heathland/Acid Grassland and Wetlands

Summary

This one-day course focuses on recognising woodland, acid grassland/heathland and some wetland habitats that are valuable for wildlife by identifying species that are indicators of those habitats.

Description

This classroom and field-based training course will help delegates understand the importance of identifying key indicator plant species for the habitats listed above, including an outline of factors which influence where plant species are found.

The training sessions are planned to help delegates build the underpinning skills and knowledge required for botanical surveys including UKHab/BNG/Phase 1 Habitat surveys and will help participants to assess whether a site is species-rich botanically.

The course takes place at Folly Farm Nature Reserve, which is owned and managed by Avon Wildlife Trust. Folly Farm is a fine example of a traditional farm with wildflower meadows, wetland and ancient woodland. This 250-acre nature reserve offers spectacular views over Chew Valley Lake and the Mendips.

Delegates will be able to explore plant species across grassland, wetland and woodland habitats within the reserve. The meadows are unspoilt by pesticides and fertilisers, and are full of indicator plants such as betony, ox-eye daisy and heath spotted orchid. The woodland ground flora is extremely rich with spring flowers such as native English bluebell, yellow pimpernel and early purple orchid. The wildflower meadows and Dowlings Wood are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Heathland habitats will be covered in the classroom part of the course.

Who Should Attend?

LA ecologists, SNCO/NGO conservation officers, students, ecological consultants, wardens, rangers. Delegates who have some botanical knowledge but limited knowledge of how to identify different habitat types using indicator plant species.

Knowledge Level

Beginner - Intermediate

Prior Knowledge

A basic knowledge of plant identification and relevant habitats is required to attend this course. It would be useful for you to try to access some of the books and other references on the references sheet before the course.

Learning Outcomes

• Learn how to assess whether woodland, acid grassland/heathland and some wetland habitats are valuable for wildlife by identifying species that are indicators of those habitats.
• Learn 10+ key indicator plant species for ancient woodlands including trees, grasses, sedges and ferns. Also learn some indicators of secondary woodland.
• Learn 6+ key indicator plant species for acid grassland/heathland including grasses and sedges.
• Learn 6+ key indicator plant species for wetlands including grasses, rushes and sedges.
• Have an understanding of the taxonomic system of classification for plants.

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