Enhancing biodiversity through baseline biodiversity net gain assessments for South West Water
Published: 18 February 2025
Understanding the challenge
We conducted baseline biodiversity net gain assessments across multiple South West Water treatment sites. The objective was to evaluate existing habitats and provide strategic land management recommendations to enhance biodiversity.
Our approach and implementation
The project began with AiDASH aerial assessments to identify general site habitats, followed by detailed ground-truthing surveys conducted by qualified ecologists. Using the statutory biodiversity net gain metric, we calculated baseline biodiversity unit scores and provided tailored recommendations to improve on-site habitats.
Comprehensive reports were delivered, detailing:
- Baseline habitat conditions and scores
- Strategies for habitat management to maximise biodiversity
- Enhancement and conversion recommendations to optimise BNG scores
Executing these surveys required meticulous planning, adherence to stringent health and safety requirements, and seamless coordination with South West Water. Key challenges included:
- Adapting to new pro-forma report templates
- Gaining timely site access and completing required inductions
- Delivering reports during peak survey season
To overcome these challenges, our experts:
- Maintained flexibility with survey scheduling
- Ensured clear, proactive communication with the client
- Conducted thorough risk assessments and site inductions for smooth project execution
With surveys best conducted between May and August for optimal results, our experienced team leveraged in-depth botanical expertise, up-to-date knowledge of biodiversity net gain, and practical habitat management strategies to ensure accurate assessments and actionable recommendations.
Impact and outcomes delivered
The success of the 2023 project and our strong working relationship with South West Water led to a further contract in 2024 for additional surveys.
This collaboration also facilitated a biodiversity net gain case study focused on land conversion of an unused attenuation basin at another South West Water treatment site.
The methodology used in this project can be applied to other organisations seeking to:
- Understand and optimise biodiversity within their land assets
- Implement practical management strategies for habitat enhancement
- Convert underutilised land into biodiversity-rich environments
By delivering high quality insights and actionable strategies, we support clients in achieving their sustainability and biodiversity goals.
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