Vegetation & Hedgerow Surveys
Classifying habitats and vegetation
In some cases it may be appropriate to conduct a more detailed vegetation survey, classifying habitats on a smaller spatial scale and to a greater level of detail. This is done to the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) system, which is the core British standard. Similarly on sites where hedgerows are present Hedgerow Assessments are undertaken to establish the type, quality and importance of the hedgerows on site.
The information gathered will then be used to inform the report for submission to the relevant planning authority. Details of any recommendations for further surveys and mitigation measures will be included. Ecosupport have competent botanists and can carry out both NVC surveys and hedgerow assessments to the highest possible standard.
NVC vegetation survey
The NVC method classifies the full suite of vascular, bryophyte and macro-lichen species within a vegetation type. There are 12 major types of vegetation, which are then subdivided into 286 community groups. The habitat communities on site are coded and mapped out. Any communities of biological interest are identified.
Hedgerow assessment
Hedgerows are of great importance to conservation within the UK and a hedgerow assessment may be required to assess what works are required. A hedgerow assessment will establish the distribution, type, condition and importance of the hedgerows on site.
Survey timing
A vegetation survey needs to be undertaken during the appropriate season, when species are in bloom. Sometimes, multiple surveys may also need to be done in order to get a detailed species list, as many plants may only be present at certain times of the year. It is best to contact us and plan your surveys as early as possible.
Our experience
Ecosupport has a history of completing accurate surveys to inform ecological assessments for planning applications. We can classify the habitats down to NVC level to identify any important species or habitats on site. Speak to one of our experienced ecologists to discuss your site with them.