An Introduction to the Survey, Identification and Assessment of Semi-Natural Woodland Flora and Vegetation
Wednesday 7 May 2008
Location: Preston, Lancashire
Participant Standard: Beginner
Tutor(s): Cameron Crook MIEEM
This part classroom, part field-based course will combine National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey of semi-natural woodland with the identification of characteristic flora and evaluation of habitat. Examples of semi-natural woodland will be surveyed using Extended Phase 1 Habitat methodology to evaluate structural and habitat integrity followed by more detailed survey using NVC methodology to identify and evaluate vegetational integrity. Emphasis will be given to the correct identification of vascular plants and common bryophytes and lichens.
Who should attend this workshop?
The workshop is aimed at newly qualified ecologists and those with limited experience of woodland field survey and assessment. However, it will also be of benefit to those who are more experienced but who require a refresher on woodland survey techniques.
Anything participants need to know/read before coming on the training event, or need to have with them?
Bring with you:
- Waterproof clipboard or standard clipboard and a large transparent plastic bag
- Notebook and pencils or pens
- Field Guide e.g. Wild Flower Key (F. Rose), Field Flora of the British Isles (C. Stace)
- Outdoor Clothing (waterproofs, walking boots, day-rucksack)
- Packed Lunch (however, there will be facilities at the visitor centre to buy lunch and refreshments)
What will participants learn from the workshop (learning outcomes)?
- Identification of key woodland plant species
- Survey techniques used in woodland survey and assessment
- How to plan and undertake an NVC survey in the field
- How to analyse NVC data using keys and/or software
Programme:
09:30 Arrival and Coffee
10:00 Welcome and housekeeping
10:10 Introduction to the Workshop and Fieldwork procedures
11:15 Coffee Break and Preparation for Field Work
11:30 Into the field for the first fieldwork session commencing with a Practical Introduction to
Woodland Species Identification and NVC Survey Methodology
13:00 Lunch (in the field or under shelter if the weather is inclement)
14:00 Resume Field Work splitting into small groups to carry out NVC surveys of selected
woodlandtypes across the park*
16:30 Workshop Group reforms for Summing Up, optional Discussion and hading out of CPD forms
17:00 End of Workshop
*NVC survey data will be collected at the end of the workshop to be later analysed by computer and sent on to participants.
Cost: £60 IEEM members, £120 non-members.