A new use for Remote Sensing – mapping invasive plant species for Bridgend County Borough Council

Due to the scale, land type and infrastructure to be mapped, Remote Sensing was the most appropriate surveying method. The total area was an estimated 400km² with land types and infrastructure including roadways, motorways, waterways and railway lines that would be difficult or dangerous to access on foot.

Further informed by the results of the mapping and the prioritisation matrix, Bridgend County Borough Council are now able to target Invasive non-native plants at highest risk of spread from council land.

Himalayan balsam

Bridgend Council’s proactive approach to INNS mapping on its land holdings will help biodiversity and protect habitats, as well as helping the council avoid financial penalties under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (WCA) and potentially mitigate and protect against future civil claims. With accurate baseline data and mapping, the Council can target resources to hotspots of concern.

This approach can be used for catchment mapping and Biodiversity Net Gain for water companies, to provide baseline data for areas where there is little or none available.

You can read more about the project here, or speak to Darroch Baker, Managing Director for Freshwater & Terrestrial about ways we use remote sensing to bring nature-positive solutions to our clients.