Ecology First
Ecology-first is an independent ecological consultancy run by Colin Hayes.
The consultancy's primary areas of work are:
- Mapping of vegetation zones/habitats using standard phase 1 or NVC
methodologies.
- National and international wildlife legislation (SSSI and SAC/Ramsar) and
its implications for developers, local authorities (PPG9), landowners and
the public.
- Legally protected species, especially great crested newts, their
integration with development, including licensed conservation/mitigation
works if required.
- Ecological appraisal of land for client's information, for example where
land use or management change is proposed; impact assessment and
mitigation; preliminary hydrological assessment.
- Habitat management (manual, mechanical and by stock), restoration and
'creation', especially peatland, heathland, ancient woodland, semi-natural
grassland, ponds and wetlands generally, water level management and its
implications.
- Monitoring habitat/community/population change
- Farming and nature conservation
- Public speaking, including Public Inquiries; presentations and media work.
