It’s probably fair to say that the introduction of the UKHab Classification has been one of the biggest changes (and challenges) for ecologists in recent years. Linked to the need for ecologists to routinely undertake Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) assessments, UKHab has become a cornerstone for many consultancies. However, adjusting to a new survey methodology and producing quality data outputs suitable for stringent BNG work has understandably proved to be a struggle for many. That’s why, in partnership with experts at eCountability and UKHab, we have produced the definitive UKHab Survey App.
This blog looks at changes and improvements brought in with the new version of the app (v1.1)
Many ecologists have historically used pen and paper for their habitat surveys. However, issues with lack of accuracy, lots of paperwork and the need to digitise all of the information post-survey have meant this is not really practical or scalable in the new UKHab/BNG world.
Since launching the UKHab Survey App in March this year, we’ve already worked with hundreds of ecological consultancies seeking to find a solution to effectively and efficiently working with the survey at scale. Some major advantages of using the UKHab Survey App are that it has been built by experts at eCountability and UKHab, and it is maintained and updated in line with external changes to, for example, the Biodiversity Metric.
Version 1.1 of the UKHab Survey App, which launched in late-June delivers some key improvements that focus on how you work with your data.
In v1.1 we provide two new data exports for you:
- The UKHab data model format. This produces data ready to create styled habitat maps in your preferred GIS or for use as a table in your reports.
- A Condition Assessment results format. This provides you with a dataset which is ready for use with the Biodiversity Metric Calculator tool.
Given that the update to the UKHab Survey App has largely been led by updates taking place to the Biodiversity Metric, it will come as no surprise to learn that most of the changes centre on this. Below are details of the key changes that take place behind the scenes.
The new version of the app:
- Calculates Habitat Condition Scores using the revised rules presented in v3.1 of the Metric.
For example, the rules relating to higher distinctiveness grasslands have been amended to reflect differences between acidic and other grassland types. This change in the metric, which is also reflected/supported in the app, provides you with more detailed data associated with your records, giving you the confidence you need when it comes to data accuracy.
- Presents the appropriate Condition Assessment criteria for the UKHab feature being recorded. Breaking this down further, the Biodiversity Metric 3.1 requires the use of 25 different sets of criteria for use in habitat condition assessment. The choice of which criteria sets to use depends on the habitat type recorded. That relationship is complex. The UKHab Survey App knows all of these relationships so that the correct criteria are always presented to you – removing this burden and saving you time.
- Automates Metric 3.1 Group and Habitat names from UKHab Habitat Names. This is critical due to the fact that the UKHab methodology contains 512 habitat types, whereas the Biodiversity Metric 3.1 uses only 145 habitat types, so the app must map names across to the appropriate value. As you’ll know if you’ve scoured the documents, most of the Metric habitat types are a direct match for UKHab habitat types, but to make life more interesting the Metric sometimes uses a slightly different name. For BNG projects it is essential you present the habitat data using the Metric’s defined habitat groups and names. The App automates this complex relationship for you, allowing habitat surveys to use both UKHab data standards and output reports in Metric 3.1 format where the survey data is used in a BNG project.
- Calculates Habitat Distinctiveness Scores
Metric 3.1 uses numeric scores for the calculation of Biodiversity, Hedgerow or River Units for each recorded habitat feature. The Distinctiveness score, which may be 0,2,4,6 or 8 is fixed for each Metric 3.1 habitat type and the app handles this calculation for you.
- Informs you where Metric 3.1 departs from UKHab habitat types
In the main, Metric 3.1 uses UKHab for habitat types. However, it also defines some Metric-specific habitats, such as lake types. This complexity can be difficult for surveyors working on BNG projects. The App informs the user about any such Metric habitat differences, so that, where required, additional information can be collected in the field.
Want to see the UKHab Survey App in action?
Then get in touch with us today for a demo of the system and to find out more about the 30 day free trial.