Course: Habitat Surveying: Using UKHab

This practical 2-day intermediate course will teach you the fundamentals of using UK Habitat Classification (UKHab) to map and assess a wide range of commonly encountered habitats.

The UK Habitat Classification (UKHab) has become the industry standard, not least because it is integral to DEFRA’s Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) metric. From ecological consultancy to conservation, this system offers a straightforward yet comprehensive system for mapping habitats and their ecological value.

Field Studies Council and UKHab Ltd. have partnered to deliver these courses and other training related to UKHab surveys.

This course will include:

• Classroom-based sessions introducing UKHab: the rationale and the methodology.
• Practical experience out in the field learning to code habitats according to the UKHab field key, using secondary codes to provide additional information.
• Practical experience in the field of mapping habitats in accordance with UKHab protocols.
• Practical experience in the field identifying plant and tree species indicative of a range of grassland, woodland and scrub habitats and/or other example habitats dependent upon course venue.
• Interpreting habitat data in relation to relevant legislation and policy.
• A chance to meet fellow like-minded people from a range of disciplines.

There will be classroom-based presentations, activities and discussions to introduce the potential applications of UKHab and the methodology.

As much time as possible will be spent in the field, where you will become increasingly independent in classifying and mapping a wide-range of commonly encountered habitats, as well as linear habitats such as hedgerows and smaller point features. There will be a mix of direct tuition, whole group discussion, and practice independently or in small teams.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the potential applications of UKHab.
• Understand the UKHab methodology, including the field key.
• Plan a thorough and efficient UKHab field survey.
• Categorise and map a wide range of commonly encountered habitats using primary and secondary codes.
• Understand how to interpret habitat data in relation to relevant legislation and policy.

This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use the discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off.

Please refer to the Field Studies Council website for further information and to book.