Phase One Habitat Survey and Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Workshop (2 day course))

This very popular 2 day course will benefit ecologists, land managers, rangers, planners, environmental consultants and students. The main focus of the course will be to introduce participants to Phase 1 Survey methods and how to use the handbook. The course will provide participants with supervised tuition on how to correctly assess a habitat type using the Phase 1 survey methodology, to map and write this up competently and to understand how to read Phase 1 habitat maps. In addition, course participants will also gain a practical understanding of what is required in a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (aka an ‘Extended Phase 1 survey’), which is a key part of ecological assessment work.

We will be outdoors in the field for a large amount of the time therefore please bring a pack/rucksack for carrying your equipment, waterproofs etc. Field trips will be at various locations within a 10 mile radius of Stirling. Participants with vehicles may be asked to car share with other participants if possible during field trips. It would be useful for us to know when booking if you will be using their own vehicle and if you can offer someone a space.

This two day course will add to your CV and CPD and will help you gain employment within ecological and environmental consultancies and other environmental agencies.

Day 1.

• What are Phase 1 habitat surveys and how are they are used.

• Identify and record habitat types

• Assess dominant species

• Record field and target notes

• Prepare a Phase 1 Habitat map

• Classroom based and field work

• Phase 1 Habitat mapping pencils will be provided along with clipboards and maps.

Day 2.

• What is a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (aka Extended Phase 1 survey) and how to carry them out

• Further practical fieldwork, including further Phase One habitat survey work to consolidate the first day’s learning.

• Classroom based and field work.

What to bring with you - A copy of the JNCC Handbook for Phase 1 Habitat is ESSENTIAL - free download http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-2468 Notebook and pencil, grass and flowering plant field guide, hand-lens, binoculars, camera, GPS if you have one or can borrow. Though classroom based there will be field work therefore you will also require the following: waterproof jacket and trousers, stout walking boots or wellingtons. This course ties in with Plant ID Courses also run by TCV Scotland.

Trainer details - Lindsay is an ecologist with over 25 years experience, having worked as an ecologist in a wide variety of organisations, including Scottish Natural Heritage and the National Trust for Scotland, before starting his own business, Parnassus Ecology. With extensive experience in EIA and planning work, and habitat and protected species management, he also has in-depth experience of field surveys and has been mentoring professionals in survey and species identification skills for over 15 years. He is a full member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).

Lunch - Please bring a packed lunch

Cost - £130 (includes vat)

Terms & Conditions - The full fee is payable for cancellations within 7 days of event.