Habitat Surveys

A Phase 1 habitat survey will provide a basic assessment of each habitat (flora and fauna) type on your site and its potential importance for nature conservation.  It will result in the production of a map classifying each different piece of land according to a standardised recording system.  The Phase 1 habitat survey will help determine if special consideration is needed in terms of protecting certain habitats on your site and if further survey work is required.

Northern Ireland Environment Agency will ask for a habitat survey if they need further information on which to assess the potential impact of a wind energy project on the site’s nature conservation interest.

Wind NI can carry out a Phase 1 habitat survey and will ensure the survey meets all requirements stipulated by Northern Ireland Environment Agency.  The survey will be carried out by an experienced and appropriately qualified person.

Based on the results of the Phase 1 habitat survey, Northern Ireland Environment Agency may request a Phase 2 habitat survey.  This is a more detailed survey of particular areas highlighted, for example a badger survey may be requested if the presence of badger setts or badger activity is identified.  Wind NI can arrange Phase 2 habitat surveys and will ensure they meet all requirements set by Northern Ireland Environment Agency.