What is it?
The National Plant Monitoring Scheme (NPMS) is a new habitat-based plant monitoring scheme designed by BSBI, CEH, Plantlife and JNCC. The aim is to collect data to provide an annual indication of changes in plant abundance and diversity.
Why is it needed?
Thanks to volunteers, we have a very good understanding of changes in the populations of birds, butterflies and bats. Plants are the foundation of habitats and ecosystems, but currently we do not have a good measure of changes in plant populations across the country.
How will it work?
This is a scientific survey, so you will be randomly allocated a convenient 1km square to visit. The visit involves recording plant ‘indicator species’ in plots. Within your 1km square you will record around 5 plots in semi-natural habitats. Check out the squares available near you now! Or, if you are signed in to your NPMS account, visit the ‘Request a square’ page.
Who can take part?
Anyone interested in nature who can identify plants, or who is keen to learn. Different levels of participation ensure that all who are keen can participate: you do not have to be an experienced botanist. You will only need to identify between 25-30 ‘indicator species’ per habitat. These are distinctive species specially selected to allow us to monitor changes in the countryside.