Ecological Surveys & Appraisals
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (sometimes also referred to as a Phase 1 Survey or just an Ecological Appraisal) is often the first time an Ecologist will be engaged on a project. The Ecologist will obtain data from the Local Records Centre, which may hold records of protected species or locally designated nature reserves on or adjacent to the site, and other desktop sources. The site will be surveyed to record and map the habitats it contains. The Ecologist will search for signs of protected species, such as badger setts or potential bat roosts, and assess whether the site is likely to support any protected species that are not easily identified from a single survey.
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal can be carried out at any time of year. There will always be some limitations – winter surveys are good for spotting potential bat roosts in trees while the leaves are off, but midsummer surveys are better for plants and birds – however, with experience an Ecologist can gather enough information to complete a good appraisal of a site.
For expert advice on Ecological Surveys & Appraisals
Bengrove Ltd can assist you with all aspects of ecology, biodiversity net gain and wildlife considerations during your construction projects big and small.
Detailed Habitat Surveys
A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal might be required in various situations. In some cases, this level of work is all that is needed to accompany a planning application. Often a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal will identify whether any further ecological surveys are required. It can also be used to identify opportunities for biodiversity enhancement to meet local and national policies and legislation.
Where a project requires biodiversity net gain, the appraisal is the first step in a longer process — see our BNG and BNG Monitoring services.