The National Plant Monitoring Scheme (NPMS) is a new habitat-based plant monitoring scheme which is government backed and is being delivered by a partnership comprising Plantlife, Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee.
The National Plant Monitoring Scheme launched in March is the first of its kind. It asks for volunteers across the United Kingdom to visit a kilometre square local to them twice a year and record the plants they find there in several different plots. The aim is to collect data to provide an annual indication of changes in plant abundance and diversity. The scheme will enable conservationists to explore how plants in different habitats are responding to changes in the environment.
Why is it needed?
Thanks to volunteers, we have a very good understanding of changes in the populations of birds, butterflies and bats. Plants are the foundation of habitats and ecosystems, but currently we do not have a good measure of changes in plant populations across the country.
How will it work?
This is a scientific survey, so you will be randomly allocated a convenient 1km square to visit. The visit involves recording plant ‘indicator species’ in plots. Within your 1km square you will record around 5 plots in semi-natural habitats.
Who can take part?
Anyone interested in nature who can identify plants, or who is keen to learn. Different levels of participation ensure that all who are keen can participate: you do not have to be an experienced botanist. You will only need to identify between 25-30 'indicator species' per habitat. These are distinctive species specially selected to allow us to monitor changes in the countryside.
Getting involved and support for volunteers
Follow the link for how to get involved
All volunteers registering for a square on the Scheme website will receive a survey pack (survey guidance; species list; species guidebook) and will be able to access telephone and email support provided by the volunteer coordinator.
Free Training Days
All volunteers will be able to access free training courses being held at sites across the UK, including one in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Introduction to the National Plant Monitoring Scheme
Craig y nos Country Park
Thursday 11th June 2015, 10 – 15.30
Spaces are limited so BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL – to sign up for a training event you first need to register with the National Plant Monitoring Scheme
This event is being held as part of Wales Biodiversity Week 2015