Biodiversity Shorts – Live Webinars

About the National Vegetation Classification (NVC)

The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) is a scheme that was created to help ecologists understand the relationships that exist between natural, semi-natural and major artificial plant communities, and their environment. It can be used to help us understand how vegetation works; how particular plant communities are related to climate, soil and human interventions. It can be used to help us understand what the internal dynamics are, and how they change from place to place and through time.

The predictive capacity of the NVC means that it can be used for the basis for developing management options for sites or landscapes and as a framework for restoration and design guidelines.

This webinar will cover:

• The reasons behind the creation of this system of classification.
• The method used for the classification system.
• Illustrations of outputs demonstrating the practicality and power of the system.

By the end of the webinar, learners will:

• Understand the reasons behind the creation of the classification system.
• Be familiar with the method used in the classification system.
• Recognise the practicality and power of the system through illustrative outputs.

About the tutor

John Handley is the Director of CH Ecology, an independent ecologist and consultant, providing surveys and training on behalf of conservation agencies and Local Authorities. John has a background within amenity horticulture as a Technical Manager, providing advice and training to Local Authorities, prominent sports facilities and private land owners. John is an enthusiastic communicator and botanist.

Webinar details:

Date: 23rd September 2024

Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm

Price: £10. Booking in advance is essential.

Why study urban botany?

The study of botany has been implemented for centuries, and although typically associated rural environments, however many species of plants can be readily be found within urban environments. By observing and appreciating urban plants, individuals can discover the resilience and beauty of nature thriving in unexpected places, gain a deeper understanding of biodiversity in cities, and foster a sense of environmental stewardship in their own communities.

This webinar will cover:

• The benefits (and, in rare instances, challenges) of urban botany.
• The range of urban habitats and their characteristics.
• How to identify common urban plant species.
• Examples of plants which could be considered urban specialists.
• Tips and tools for urban botanists.

By the end of the webinar, learners will:

• Know where to look for urban plants.
• Know which species to look out for.
• Know what equipment to take for studying urban plants.

About the tutor

As well as being a published nature writer, Dr Amanda Tuke is a consultant botanist and naturalist with a particular interest in urban plants. She is passionate about teaching botany to enthuse beginners and sharing her fascination with plants, and is a member of the Skills & Training Committee of the Botanical Society of Britain & Ireland.

Webinar details:

Date: 12th November 2024

Time: 7pm – 8pm

Price: £10. Booking in advance is essential.

An introduction to publishing nature writing

Publishing nature writing offers writers an opportunity to engage with a rich literary tradition that celebrates the natural world. As environmental issues become more prominent and outdoor activities grow in popularity, nature writing is gaining significant traction. However, despite this rise in interest and the increasing number of writers producing nature-focused work, getting published can still be a daunting challenge.

This webinar will guide participants through the key steps and considerations involved in publishing nature writing in the UK.

This webinar will cover essential advice on how to navigate the publishing process, including:

• Maintaining a nature diary as a foundation for your writing.
• Editing and polishing your work to prepare it for sharing.
• Researching and identifying suitable publications.
• Crafting effective email pitches to editors.
• Handling rejection and learning from feedback

By the end of the webinar, learners will:

• Understand how to prepare their writing for submission.
• Be able to identify potential outlets for their nature writing.
• Be aware of the key considerations when drafting a pitch to editors.

About the tutor

As well as being an urban naturalist, Dr Amanda Tuke writes a monthly column for Bird Watching Magazine, and her nature writing has been published in BBC Countryfile Magazine, Resurgence Magazine and British Wildlife Magazine. She lectures on the MA in nature and travel writing course at Bath Spa University.

Webinar details:

Date: 3rd December 2024

Time: 7pm – 8pm

Price: £10. Booking in advance is essential.