Volunteers have long played a major part in biological recording in the UK. From the amateur naturalists of the 1800s to the present day, their contribution to the knowledge of our flora and fauna cannot be understated. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) have now commissioned a study to look into the current extent of voluntary biological recording in Scotland and at its potential value - for example to conservation and planning, but also to an individual's personal development. SNH intends to use this research to help increase the number and range of people and organisations involved in voluntary biological recording and to increase the participants’ skills in, and knowledge of, biological recording.
Edinburgh-based Biodiversity Solutions has been contracted to carry out the study. Sara Hawkswell explains more.
"We are exploring all projects and schemes which encourage, or have encouraged, volunteers to become involved in biological recording. We are considering their effectiveness not only in collecting biological data but also in the real benefits to individuals and communities. We will also consider gaps in terms of opportunities for further volunteering and for extending the extent and quality of the coverage of biodiversity data."
"For the purposes of this brief study we have defined biological recording as including any form of recording of wildlife, at any level, from beginners to experts, and covering interests in habitats, species and sites."
"To make sure that this research is factually sound we would very much like you to help us to gather some data about recorders in Scotland, what they do and what motivates them. We have devised a simple web-based questionnaire which we are asking a wide range of volunteer recorders to complete so that we get an accurate steer on who is involved. The questionnaire should take you about 5 minutes to fill in."
To complete the survey please follow the link below:
http://www.smart-survey.co.uk/v.asp?i=18811ckeuo