Handbook of Biodiversity Methods: Survey, Evaluation and Monitoring

Description

Biodiversity is recognised to be of global importance, yet species and habitats continue to be under increasing pressure from human-induced influences. Environmental concerns are high on the political agenda, driving increased legislation to protect the natural environment. The starting point for much of this legislation is the requirement for a comprehensive biodiversity audit. For those needing to undertake such audits, this Handbook provides standard procedures which will enable practitioners to better monitor the condition of the biodiversity resource, resulting in improved data upon which to base future policy decisions and actions. Organised in three parts, the Handbook first addresses planning, covering method selection, experimental design, sampling strategy, and data analysis and evaluation. The second part describes survey, evaluation and monitoring methods for a broad range of habitats. Part three considers species and provides information on general methods before addressing specific methods of survey and monitoring for the major taxonomic groups.

David Hill is Director of Ecology, RPS Group plc, UK. Matthew Fasham is Principal Consultant, RPS Group plc, UK. Graham Tucker is a freelance ecological consultant with Ecological Solutions, UK. Michael Shewry is Environmental Statistician, Scottish Natural Heritage, UK. Philp Shaw is Environmental Audit Officer, Scottish Natural Heritage, UK.

'Many consultants and project students should find it very helpful.' Ibis 'The Handbook draws together much material that has usually been scattered in the literature. ... Numerous approaches to biodiversity evaluation are described and discussed in its pages and a practical focus is maintained throughout.' Biologist '... impressive ... Extremely helpful ...' Basic and Applied Ecology 'When I opened it and started to flick through it I found that I was drawn into reading section after section. ... well written and covers each separate subject concisely ... It is difficult to find fault with this publication ... in time this handbook will become the standard text for biodiversity monitoring and will grace the shelves of consultants, wildlife professionals and conservation workers alike.' BRISC Recorder News '... a valuable reference for anyone involved in the many biodiversity audits ... well set out and easy to read ... useful diagrams ... The authors and editors of this handbook are all experienced field ecologists and highly respected authorities ...' In Practice