Preliminary Nature Survey

A thorough preliminary nature survey helps identify the ecological features that may be present within a project area and the nature surveys that may be needed as the project progresses.

What is a preliminary nature survey?

A preliminary nature survey is an initial assessment of an area’s ecological features and survey requirements, carried out at an early stage of a project. It brings together existing ecological information and assesses which species and habitats of conservation interest may occur in the area.

The preliminary survey helps focus fieldwork where it is needed and avoid unnecessary additional surveys. This can save costs and support scheduling, while reducing the risk of a missing nature survey delaying the project later.

Ecobio provides preliminary nature surveys to support the planning of renewable energy projects, construction projects, spatial planning and other land-use changes.

What does a preliminary nature survey include?

The preliminary survey draws on existing ecological records, geospatial data and expert assessment, usually supplemented by a brief site visit.

The preliminary survey considers:

• existing species records and other ecological information
• habitat types and habitats within the area
• protected areas and other known sites of ecological value
• the area’s suitability for protected species and species of conservation interest
• ecological connectivity and surrounding land use
• the need for further nature surveys

What does the preliminary nature survey report tell you?

The preliminary survey provides an overview of the area’s known and potential ecological features, together with recommendations on the detailed nature surveys needed for the project and when they should be carried out.

It also identifies the areas where further surveys are particularly needed. This helps avoid unnecessary surveys and focus fieldwork where it will be most useful.

The findings are delivered in a clear report with accompanying maps.

Why is a preliminary nature survey useful?

Nature surveys often need to be carried out at specific times of year because of the ecology of the species being surveyed. If survey requirements are identified late in a project, there may be a considerable wait for the appropriate season and conditions.

A preliminary nature survey helps you:

• save costs by avoiding unnecessary surveys and focusing work appropriately
• anticipate survey requirements at an early stage
• schedule fieldwork at the right time
• identify potential ecological risks early
• reduce the risk of project delays
• obtain baseline information to support planning and discussions with the authorities.

When should you commission a preliminary nature survey?

A preliminary nature survey should be carried out as early as possible in the planning process, before commissioning detailed nature surveys.

The service is particularly useful when it is still unclear which species or habitat types need to be surveyed, or which surveys will be required for the project’s permitting or planning process.

Any necessary species or habitat surveys will still need to be carried out. The preliminary survey provides a sound basis for planning this work efficiently.

Ecobio supports you at every stage of your project

In addition to preliminary nature surveys, Ecobio’s nature specialists carry out the necessary follow-up surveys and assessments. The same team can support your project from initial planning through fieldwork and reporting to impact assessment.

Are you planning a project and wondering which nature surveys your site needs? Contact us for help defining the appropriate survey scope for your project.