Using the NVC: Plant Communities and Habitats

This course will cover using NVC classification and plant communities (including indicator species), as well as exploring the UK Habitats Classification. As part of this we will cover recording frequency/percentage cover using the DOMIN scale. We will also look at the taxonomy and classification of common plant species and the habitats in which they grow. As part of this we will explore how soils and grazing regimes can affect plant growth, survival and structural diversity. We will explore resources that can be used to gain information about conservation status and habitat. Participants will also gain an understanding of the laws surrounding protected species and invasive plants. We will cover habitats and biotic/abiotic influences on surveying vegetation, the optimum times for surveying vegetation, techniques to record plant diversity and abundance e.g. using the DOMIN scale. Course delivery will comprise an illustrated talk, including recognition of different habitats and plant communities. We will compare Phase 1 habitats surveys with using UKHabs. The UK habitats Classification provides more detailed information about habitats and has become the industry standard. The Biodiversity Metric uses the UKHabs classification methodology and we will mainly focus on this, including looking at how we can combine NVC survey with the UK Habitats Classifications. Training will take place remotely via Zoom at a relaxed pace over two half days.

ecological consultants, land managers, local authority ecologists, conservation officers and licensing staff within SNCOs or NGOs, students, graduates, environmental managers

Beginner - Intermediate

Some botanical knowledge/experience is a prerequisite for this course. Experience of conducting habitat surveys would also be beneficial.

• Identify, classify and evaluate habitats in accordance with local, national and international classifications (e.g. UK Habs) and at a variety of spatial scales
• Understand the National Vegetation Classification, plant communities, sub-communities, ecotones and mosaics and recognise biotic/abiotic influences on surveying vegetation. Use appropriate techniques to record frequency and percentage cover (e.g. DOMIN scale).
• Understand taxonomy and classification of common plant species
• Understand the laws surrounding protected species and invasive plants.
• Understand the importance of biosecurity controls when surveying and use safe, biosecure methods between habitats or sites.