Invasive Species Survey

An invasive species survey is an essential part of planning for construction, land use, and environmental management. It identifies harmful invasive species present in the area, assesses their distribution, and provides recommendations for managing associated risks. A professionally conducted survey helps prevent environmental damage, reduces costs, and ensures compliance with legal obligations.

What is an invasive species survey?

In an invasive species survey, an expert maps harmful invasive species present in the area, such as Himalayan balsam, garden lupine, Japanese rose, and the Spanish slug, and assesses their impacts on the environment and the planned project. The survey can be carried out prior to construction, zoning, permitting, maintenance activities, or habitat management work.

The objectives of an invasive species survey are to:

• identify the occurrence and distribution of harmful invasive species
• assess the risks of species spread
• prepare effective control and monitoring guidelines
• safeguard local biodiversity

Why is an invasive species survey carried out?

Harmful invasive species spread rapidly and can cause significant ecological and economic impacts. Finnish legislation on the management of risks caused by invasive alien species assigns a duty of care to property owners, landholders, and operators, and prohibits the release of invasive species into the environment.

The Finnish law includes obligations related to preventing the spread of invasive species and their eradication. Some harmful invasive species, such as giant hogweed, can also pose risks to human health and safety. An invasive species survey conducted at an early stage enables timely control measures and helps prevent problems from escalating.

Benefits of an invasive species survey:

• supports compliance with authority requirements, including the Act on the Management of Risks Caused by Invasive Alien Species
• helps avoid additional costs and project delays
• promotes responsible and sustainable environmental management
• improves ecological condition and biodiversity
• supports human health and safety

Content of an invasive species survey

A survey carried out by professionals includes:

1. Review of background information
   Previous studies, known invasive species occurrences, map materials, and authority guidance.
2. Field survey
   Identification of invasive species, estimation of population sizes, delineation of occurrence areas, and photographic documentation.
3. Risk analysis
   Assessment of spread risks and impacts on the project, the environment, health, and safety.
4. Recommendations for measures
   Control actions, monitoring programmes, and any special instructions for the construction phase.
5. Clear reporting
   A practical report that meets authority requirements and serves as a tool for implementation.

Ecobio as your expert partner for invasive species surveys

Ecobio is an environmental consultancy that delivers invasive species surveys with professional expertise and in line with current guidance. Our extensive experience in ecological surveys, environmental impact assessment, and sustainability services ensures a high quality and reliable outcome.

Why choose Ecobio to carry out an invasive species survey?

• experienced experts in ecology and environmental sciences
• scientifically sound methods and up to date knowledge of legislation
• systematic field survey work
• clear, actionable, and cost efficient recommendations
• possibility to combine the invasive species survey with other nature and environmental studies

Ecobio provides invasive species surveys for municipalities, companies, developers, industry, and other stakeholders who require reliable information that meets authority requirements to support their projects.

Order an invasive species survey from Ecobio

When you want your project to progress responsibly and smoothly, Ecobio is here to help. We deliver invasive species surveys with high quality, efficiency, and attention to the specific characteristics of each site.

Get in touch and our experts will be happy to tell you more!