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What does the Survey do?

The Field Survey involves an in-depth study of a sample of 1km squares in the countryside. 

Recent research outcomes from the UKCEH Countryside Survey

• the investigation of links between field data and Earth Observation data
• the usage of our data in Defra’s research programs 
• the investigation of nectar plant yields in relation to pollinator decline
• modelling to demonstrate the possibility of predicting the size of the entire flora of Britain from a small sample of recording locations
• the usage of our data for testing plant species niche models for the British flora
• the development of a new habitat classification -  UKHab

How have the findings been used?

The results from the UKCEH Countryside Survey have been used to:

• improve scientific understanding of the countryside’s landscape, vegetation, freshwater and soils
• monitor changes in the area and distribution of Broad Habitats* and some habitat types of special interest (e.g. hedgerows, arable field margins and upland heath)
• determine how the countryside’s natural resources respond to changes in land use, climate change and government policy
• underpin the UK Government’s reporting of biodiversity
• assess progress against target indicators in Biodiversity Strategies for the UK and the devolved countries.

*For more information on habitat types visit:

• Joint Nature Conservation Committee UK Habitat Classifications
• UK Biodiversity Action Plan: Priority Habitats associated with a particular Broad Habitat

"Countryside Survey is a vital data source, particular for its use in measuring change in the quality of natural capital assets (habitats) outside of Protected Sites."  Jane Lusardi, Natural England