Lichen Identification
Tuesday 25 March 2008
Location: Bath
Participant Standard: Beginner
Tutor(s): Justin Smith
This workshop will cover lichen identification using guides, keys and chemicals. Participants will learn about lichen ecology, pollution monitoring with lichens, how to assess for lichen diversity and how to manage sites for lichens. Participants will also learn which lichen species are important in NVC surveys.
Further information:
This workshop will cover:
- introduction to lichen biology and identification
- techniques for surveying for lichens
- chemical techniques in lichen identification
- timings for surveys
- ecology and habitat requirements
- using keys for lichen identification
- lichen conservation
- importance of lichens in NVC surveys
- pollution monitoring with lichens
The day will include a visit to a suitable site with a range of lichen species, differences between macro- and micro-lichens, using keys to identification, a guide to commonly encountered species, ecological requirements and management for lichen diversity. Participants will also be introduced to available literature used for the identification of lichens.
Who should attend this workshop?
Environmental consultants, ecologists and conservation volunteers alike looking to increase their knowledge of lichen identification.
Bring with you:
- Lichens: An illustrated guide to British and Irish species by Frank Dobson (2000)
- Any FSC laminated guides to lichens including Urban Lichens 1 & 2, Lichens on Twigs, Churchyard Lichens
- Limited copies will be available for consultation on the day
- Hand Lens: x10, x15 or x20
- Notebook and pen
- Outdoor clothing and boots.
- Sturdy footwear
- Binoculars
- Lunch
- Clipboard/weather writer
- Pencil/pen
What will participants learn from the workshop (learning outcomes)?
- How to identify a lichen to genus
- How to survey for lichens
- How to keep a herbarium
- Why some lichens are protected species
Programme:
10:00 Workshop start, Health and Safety briefing
10:05 Introduction to lichens and identification guides
10:45 Tea/Coffee Break
11:00 Field work: introduction to species in the field/sample collection
13:00 Lunch
13:30 Practical session in identification and using keys
15:45 Debrief
16:00 Finish, collect feedback forms and give out CPD certificates
Cost: £60 IEEM members, £120 non-members.