Thursday 2nd May 2019
10:00-14:00
Batscape Hedgerow Survey Training
As part of the Batscape Project, this year we will be continuing our hedgerow surveys on farmland surrounding key Horseshoe bat maternity and hibernation roosts, and we need your help! A good network of continuous hedgerows on land surrounding the maternity and hibernation roosts is very important, as Horseshoe bats use the hedges as flyways and for foraging. With a better knowledge of the condition of the hedgerow network, we can then work with farmers and landowners to enhance it and improve connectivity.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about the wildlife value of hedgerows, the importance for horseshoe bats, and the tree / shrub species within them. Following the training session, volunteers will be able to work in pairs / small groups to carry out hedgerow surveys in their own time. This training will include feedback on the surveys carried out last year, and is aimed at people who are already involved as well as new volunteers.
The session will involve an indoor training element followed by a site visit to nearby Grove Farm. The session will conclude back to hall. Everyone is welcome to bring a packed lunch and eat together. Survey packs will be allocated and any other queries discussed.
Booking is essential: please contact Deb Cook at Forest Voluntary Action Forum: forestersforest@fvaf.org.uk or 01594 822073.
It is essential to bring the following:
• Suitable footwear and clothing for the outdoor surveying (‘personal protective equipment’, such as waterproofs and wellington boots, is available on loan from Natural England if requested before the event – please ask when booking).
It would be good to bring:
• Pen and paper for taking notes.
• Clipboard if you have one
• Mobile phone if you have one (please ensure it is fully charged).
• Forest of Dean OS map if you have one.
We will provide you with:
• Survey forms, guidance notes and maps.
• Field Studies Council Tree Identification Chart (if not already provided), although you may wish to bring additional tree identification books/guides if you have them.
• We will have some clipboards available, but please bring your own if you have one.
• Tea, coffee and some nice biscuits/cake!
Location:
Flaxley Schoolroom Village Hall is located on the junction at the Westbury end of the village. There is parking along the road outside the hall, but to reduce cars please lift share if possible.