This course is included in the Botanical Skills for Ecologists training package which comprises four days of in-person botanical training aimed at trainees, apprentices and early career attendees and includes –

12^th May 2025: Plant Identification for Ecologists

13^th May 2025: Understanding the Vegetative Key, an essential tool for ecologists for extending the survey season

14^th May 2025: Grass Identification for Ecologists

15^th May 2025: Introduction to National Vegetation Classification Surveys - Please book below.

 The courses can be booked individually using the links above or you can book all four courses for a special discounted rate of £500! If you would like to book all four courses please contact training@cieem.net to check availability and book. 

Description

The National Vegetation Classification system is a key tool in allowing botanists and ecologists to identify plant communities within semi-natural habitats. This information can be important in assessing the diversity of a site, its importance and any potential future use of the site (both development or management).

Following an explanation of the classification system, techniques and sampling methods, the rest of the time will be spent in the field collecting data, with a return to the classroom to analyse and interpret the results (having used a mixture of keys and computer software).

There will be ample opportunity to practise techniques in recording and sampling in the field. By the end of the day participants will be able to understand the background of the NVC system, its methodology, plant communities, how to collect useful data, formatting and analysis of data and interpretation of that data.
The habitats covered in this course will include upland acid grasslands and heathlands and how they are related.
FISC level 3 and above

Who Should Attend?

Local Authority ecologists
Ecological consultants
Conservation officers and staff within SNCOs and NGO’s.
Students
Environmental managers,
Land Managers
Wardens
Rangers

Knowledge Level

Beginner - Intermediate

Prior Knowledge

No existing knowledge, or experience is essential, but attendees will gain the most from this course if they have some prior understanding of the parts of a plants and associated terminology, have used a key (not necessarily botanical) and have some prior knowledge of UK flora.

Field Identification Skills Certificate levels 2 and above

Learning Outcomes

• Undertake a National Vegetation Classification survey in Grasslands and/or Heathlands following the standard survey techniques (to the limits of their own botanical identification levels).
• Classify field data into the correct NVC communities using the appropriate handbooks, keys, software and other resources.
• Present NVC data in a structured format suitable for an NVC/habitat assessment report.
• Understand the need for accurate species identification is essential in identifying and classifying habitats.

Refreshments

Please bring your own packed lunch and refreshments.

Delegates can contact Preston Montford direct if they wish to book accommodation -  Preston Montford – Field Studies Council