Background
Why is Countryside Survey important?
Countryside Survey provides scientifically reliable evidence about the state or ‘health’ of the UK’s countryside today. We can compare 2007’s findings against the findings of previous Countryside Surveys from 1998, 1990, 1984 and 1978. We can then identify change (and the relative rate of change) in the countryside. This evidence is used to help form policies that influence management of the countryside, both now and in the future.
- See more about Policy and Planning
What does the Survey do?
There are two parts to the Survey: the Field Survey and the Land Cover Map. The Field Survey involves an in-depth study of a sample of 1km squares in the countryside. The Land Cover Map uses data from satellites to form a digital map of the different types of land and vegetation across the UK.
- See more about the Field Survey
- See more about the Land Cover Map
The work is carried out as a series of related Work Packages, which include soils, freshwaters, habitats and landscape features.
- More information on the Work Packages will be available shortly
A new benefit from the 2007 Survey:
Previously, Countryside Survey has reported at UK level. The 2007 Survey has been increased in size so that we will be able to report by country as well as for the whole of the UK. We will be reporting for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland individually - a facility especially requested by the devolved countries.
How will the findings be used?
After analysis of the data, the findings will be used to:
- improve scientific understanding of the countryside’s landscape, vegetation, freshwater and soils
- assess changes in the area and distribution of broad habitats* and some habitat types of special interest (e.g. Hedgerows, Arable Field Margins and Upland Heath)
- examine how the countryside’s natural resources respond to changes in land use, climate change and government policy
- contribute to Government’s reporting of biodiversity outcomes in 2010
- assess progress against target indicators in Biodiversity Strategies for the UK and the devolved countries
- See also Scientists and Research
- See also Policy and Planning