Why do I need a NVC survey?
NVC surveys are often required for large-scale projects, or those that may impact a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or other protected site. They are often requested by local planning authorities or highlighted during a Phase 1 Habitat Survey based on the presence of rare communities of plants.
What does a NVC survey involve?
Our expert surveyors will visit your site to assess the plant species and communities present. We split the site into sample areas and record the plant species and their abundance within each sample.
We analyse this data in order to classify the habitats based on standardised NVC plant communities.
What happens next?
Our NVC survey report will tell you which plant species and habitats are present on your site, and whether there are any of importance.
NVC surveys tend to be used more frequently on larger development projects that require a full environmental impact assessment (EIA). If protected plants or habitats are found to be present, we’ll provide advice and solutions on how you can achieve a positive outcome for your EIA, and your planning application.
Are we the right surveyors for you?
Our surveyors undergo an annual botanical exam (field identification skills certificate), run by Manchester Metropolitan University and the Botanical Society for Britain and Ireland (BSBI). All our surveyors have a level four FISC or above, which certifies them as competent to undertake NVC surveys.
Our surveys follow the methodology set out in the Rodwell’s ‘NVC users handbook’ (2006). In addition, our surveyors are members of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), which promotes the highest standards of practice through a professional code of conduct and continuing professional development.
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