Botanical Surveys (Phase 1, Extended Phase 1, Hedgerow and NVC) provide the botanist and ecologist with a way of classifying a wide range of vegetation and habitats. Accurate identification is critical to correctly identify habitats and determine their ecological value.

The aim of this course will be to help the professional surveyor cultivate an understanding of the Phase 1 habitat definitions, and how they’re categorised.

Identification techniques will be developed to help determine dominant species that occur within Phase 1 surveying. Conventional and digital mapping will also be discussed.

Programme

09:00 Introduction and question: why Phase 1 surveying?

09:30 Categorising habitat types.

10:30 Tea break.

10:45 Dominant species and survey preparation.

12:30 Lunch.

13:15 Undertake a Phase 1 survey of a specified area.

14:30 Tea break.

14:45 Reporting: conventional and digital mapping.

15:45 What next?

What to bring?

• x10 and/or x20 hand lens*.

• Dissecting equipment (needles and forceps/tweezers) if you have them.

• A lunch box and a drinks bottle.

• Any identification books that you regularly use.

• Bring along any specimens you would like help with identifying.

Useful books

Phase 1 Handbook, can be downloaded here: http://archive.jncc.gov.uk/pdf/pub10_handbookforphase1habitatsurvey.pdf

About the tutor

John Handley is the Director of CH Ecology, an independent ecologist and consultant, providing surveys and training on behalf of conservation agencies and Local Authorities. John has a background within amenity horticulture as a Technical Manager, providing advice and training to Local Authorities, prominent sports facilities and private land owners. John is an enthusiastic communicator and botanist.