Services to Local Biodiversity Action Plan Partnerships

Collation and management of species data

Transfer of paper maps into GIS format. N.B. In the near future, SEWBReC will be able to translate one habitat classification system into another (e.g. NVC into BAP Priority Habitats) using the Integrated Habitat System (IHS) developed by the Somerset Environmental Records Centre (SERC).

(left) Paper map displaying NVC habitat types at St James’ Reservoir, Blaenau Gwent

(right) An extract showing NVC habitat types converted to a MapInfo GIS layer at St James’ Reservoir, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, 2006-07

Species Audits: A species audit could be taken annually and used to update information on populations & distribution of LBAP/protected species; identifying new species & re-focussing & refining surveys, land management & resources. The audit could include dot distribution maps, and sites lists for species. Right: Dormouse records for South Caerphilly (Caerphilly County Borough Council, October 2005)
Species inventories for specific sites: Lists of recorded species for a specific area (e.g. a Local Nature Reserve, SINC, or just a defined area).
Distribution of invasive non-native species: Tailored information to effectively target problem areas with eradication/control programmes.
Identification of geographical and taxonomic gaps within datasets: To focus survey work and resources where needed. With increased knowledge, you could effectively liaise with other relevant groups (e.g. Hiking organisations, angling clubs, bird groups etc) to target areas/species groups with poor or less data. Left: Distribution of Great Crested Newt records in Merthyr Tydfil.

Identification/mapping of UKBAP/LBAP priority habitats (use of IHS in the future). The production of maps that display habitat types within a specified area.
Identification of suitable new habitat sites for habitat creation / expansion / enhancement and species reintroductions / translocation (using Phase I / IHS).
Use of incidental indicator species to identify habitat. For example, the use of Cladonia spp., Carline thistle (Carlina vulgaris) and Fairy flax (Linum catharticum) records to locate potential lichen-heath on coal spoil (Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, Jan 2007). This was then used to produce a list of potential lichen-heath site, and target surveys of a habitat type where little information exists. Below: Spreadsheet of possible lichen-heath coal spoil sites in Blaenau Gwent (2007)

Design and promotion/dissemination of cards.
Management and analysis of incoming survey information. Right: Recording cards for brown hare/lapwing (2006). SEWBReC digitised and managed the incoming data (2006-2007).

Digitisation and/or editing of site boundaries.
Maintenance of definitive data layers.
Site searches for species and habitats to assist site identification and/or review. Left: A SINC site from the Caerphilly SINC Review. (April, 2007)