Fully Booked – Field Identification of Common Grass Species

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Grasses, the Poaceae family form the matrix of a wide range of habitats but are also of huge economic importance. There are about 10,000 species of grasses found throughout the world with around 200 found in the UK, learn how to identify some of the most common

It is not really possible to explore and survey any habitat without including the grasses, even though they are often overlooked.

This intermediate course will allow you to identify a variety of common grass species. Ecological consultants, staff and volunteers carrying out botanical surveys will all need to have the ability to identify at least the most common grasses if their job is to be done properly. In this course, you will look at the structure of a grass and its different parts and how this can be used to make a positive identification.

Your course takes place on a 12-hectare estate, surrounded by a rich range of habitats, including the River Severn and semi-ancient woodland, set in the heart of Shropshire with views disappearing into Wales.

PLEASE NOTE the course fee is for tuition only. There is no accommodation provided with this course. If you would like to book accommodation, lunch and an evening meal at Preston Montford, please email [email protected]

*Bookings will close if course capacity is reached

If you’re ready to start identifying common grass species, then this is the course for you!

Who Should Attend?

Nature enthusiasts, Students, Rangers, Early career consultants and ecologists.

Knowledge Level

Intermediate. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge

It would be an advantage for learners to have at least some knowledge of grass structure and grass species identification.

What will be covered during this course?

• • The importance of grasses
  • Grass structure and the differences between grasses, sedges and rushes
  • Identifying grasses using both vegetative and floristic features and a dichotomous key
  • Abiotic factors and grass growth

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• • Explain why grasses are important to many species and the threats they face
  • Identify the different parts of a grass: flower structure and vegetative features plus distinguish between a grass, a rush and a sedge
  • Identify a range of common grasses using both vegetative and floristic characters
  • Use dichotomous keys to identify a specific grass
  • Use habitat as a clue to the identity of a grass
  • Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers

The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our fantastic tutor will combine the use of classroom-led learning and outside learning opportunities to give individuals the skills and confidence to learn more about grasses

• • See the ‘Example Timetable’ and ‘What’s Included’ sections below for more information about this course
  • Upon booking, you will need to provide individual details of all attendees
  • Please email [email protected] if you have any questions

Group Bookings Made Easy

If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses.

• • Discounted rates
  • Privately run courses for your group
  • Bespoke courses developed specifically for your needs

Email [email protected] to discuss your options!

If we are unable reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 14 days prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.

Sorry this course has ended