Course: Habitat Surveying - Lowland Priority Open Habitats

This 2-day course will introduce learners to indicator plant species of Lowland Priority Open Habitats using botanical keys to enable recognition. As we observe and discuss indicators for degraded or remnant conditions of these priority open habitats, we can make informed decisions on the most suitable locations for woodland creation.

This course will include:

• Practice of botanical identification of key indicator species.
• The introduction of Lowland Priority Open Habitats and their indicator species.
• Observation and discussion of indicators of degraded priority habitats.
• Discussion around woodland creation decision-making.

This course was created by the Field Studies Council in partnership with the Woodland Trust.

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

• Practice use of keys and basic plant ID skills – high beginner/intermediate level
• Recognise priority open habitats from their indicator species. To include lowland calcareous grassland, lowland dry acid grassland, lowland meadow, lowland heathland (dry and wet), blanket bog, lowland fens, lowland raised bog and arable weeds.
• Independently assess (in small groups) vegetation by quadrats in the field and make initial comments on biodiversity.
• Observe and discuss indicators for degraded or remnant condition of these habitats.
• Discuss the suitability of woodland creation with a habitat mosaic approach, as outlined in the Woodland Trust’s Woodland Creation Guide and associated Site Assessment Handbook.
• Discuss when to trigger a specialist vegetative survey for your woodland creation project.

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.