Certain projects, such as infrastructure plans or strategic masterplans, may also require an ecological appraisal in the earliest stages, if it’s deemed that an Environmental Impact Assessment will add value and support to an application.
While appraisals can be carried out all year around, the majority are done between March and September, when wildlife is at its most active. Appraisals carried out at other times of the year are still valuable, but may need extra surveys during the March-September period to confirm the findings.
What does an ecological appraisal include?
An ecological appraisal, in its broadest sense, is a first look at the biodiversity on and near your site. They can also be
called a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA). However, there are no hard and fast rules about what these reports
should include;
- Site survey mapping habitats such as hedgerows, trees, woodland, grassland and waterways, plus
notable plant species - Historic records of the site which may indicate protected species or areas
- Initial findings and suggestions of measures to protect or enhance the area’s wildlife Report to submit to the Planning Authority to include a summary of the findings, options for compliance and enhancement, plus supporting evidence.
- The initial appraisal may show that there is a need for more surveys, particularly if there is evidence of a protected species such as birds, bats or certain plants active.
What can I expect to be highlighted in an ecological appraisal?
Each site is unique, with its own benefits and challenges. However, across the UK, there are similar factors.
Protected wildlife sites which will have their own, specific requirements, include:
- National Nature or Natura sites
- Sites of Special Scientific Interest
- Special Areas of Conservation
- Specially Protected Areas
There are also some commonly found protected (and other) species across Ireland and the UK, including badgers, bats, nesting birds, reptiles, and water voles.
Who should carry out my ecological appraisal?
While an ecological appraisal may seem simple on the surface, a qualified ecologist will have the skills to look beyond the surface and spot areas to consider which may not be obvious at first sight.
They will be used to going through historic site records, looking for evidence of protected species and applying relevant legislation. They can also offer advice for the duration of the project, not just for the initial assessment, making you aware of the best measures for reduction or mitigation of damage to biodiversity.
If you need further surveys, your ecologist may well hold the relevant licence themselves, or will know who to call on to get the surveys done accurately and legally.
To discuss how and when to carry out an ecological appraisal for your project, contact Enviraculture Ecology Centre.