NEYEDC Services

Biodiversity Data Management

At NEYEDC we use the Recorder 6 database and Mapinfo Geographical Information System (GIS) software packages to store and manipulate ecological data on behalf of various individuals and organisations. This allows us to keep in line with the data standards of the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) whilst also giving us the ability to analyse the data for many different purposes. Major datasets we hold include:

• Boundaries for Statutory wildlife sites (SSSI, SAC, SPA, Ramsar) protected landscape areas (AONB, National Parks) and Local Nature Reserves (LNRs)
• Site survey information for North Yorkshire non-statutory nature conservation sites (SINCs). Also called Local Wildlife sites, we hold the habitat mapping, site descriptions, species lists and site evaluation information for the >1200 SINCs in North Yorkshire. We also hold information about the management of these sites along with details of periodic monitoring visits made to sites.
• Site survey information for East Riding of Yorkshire Local Wildlife Sites (LWS). NEYEDC are heavily involved in the current resurveying of all existing East Riding LWS and we will hold the habitat mapping, site descriptions, species lists and site evaluation information for these sites.
• Site boundaries for City of York and City of Kingston upon Hull non-statutory nature conservation sites.
• Locations of areas of notable habitat identified in the Natural England habitat inventories.
• Phase 1 survey maps and target notes for most parts of North Yorkshire.
• Our species database currently holds more than 260,000 records.

Data Products

NEYEDC can manipulate and analyse the data it holds in many different ways. If you have a particular requirement please contact us to discuss how we can help you. We commonly provide data in the following ways:

• Ecological data search response (site details and species records). See the Data Services section for more details.
• Full site survey reports for North Yorkshire & East Riding of Yorkshire non-statutory nature conservation sites.
• Species/habitat distribution maps.
• Ecological Surveys

NEYEDC has a limited capacity to carry out ecological survey work. Past surveys have included:

• Phase 1 habitat survey
• Amphibian survey
• Reptile survey
• Site monitoring survey

In addition we can provide help and support to individuals and organisations planning to carry out ecological surveys or recording programmes. We can provide advise on:

• Survey design.
• Data capture & digitisation
• Data management, manipulation & presentation including the production of maps.

NEYEDC recognises that in order for biological recording to be sustainable it is necessary to support existing voluntary recorders and to encourage new people to become involved. Each field season NEYEDC undertakes to be involved in or to run a number of initiatives. Projects include amphibian and reptile surveys, seasearch marine surveys and various educational events.

Recorder 6/2002 & Mapinfo training

NEYEDC distribute the Recorder software to any interested individuals or organisations in the sub-region. We recommend the use of Recorder 6 as the latest and most up to date version of this software. We can also provide training and technical support in the installation and use of Recorder software. For more information on Recorder 2002 & Recorder 6 see the National Biodiversity Network website or contact us at NEYEDC.

We can also provide basic training in the use of GIS software for those people looking to use this powerful tool in the manipulation and analysis of biological data. Please contact us for more information.