How To Carry Out An Mtr Survey; Overview Of The Methodology; Preparation And Pre-Survey Checks; Site And Survey Details - Planet WGSW-24010 User Manual

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HOW TO CARRY OUT AN MTR SURVEY

This chapter describes the survey methodology, starting with an overview (4.1), then progressing
to detailed procedural guidance on preparation (4.2), the field survey itself (4.3–4.6) and
laboratory analysis (4.7). The method is summarised in Figure 3 in the form of a flow chart and
in Appendix 7 as a checklist, either of which can be used as a field 'prompt sheet'.
4.1 Over view of the methodology
The macrophyte survey method chosen is based on the 'Blue Book' Method B (DoE Standing
Committee of Analysts 1987). It can be summarised as follows.
1. A standard length of watercourse (100m) is selected or located and assessed to confirm
its suitability for survey. If suitable it is measured out and the ends marked (the 'survey
length'). Standard field sheets are used to record site and survey details.
2. The macrophyte flora and physical character of the survey length are then surveyed by
wading, boat, or walking along the bank. Sampling aids are used where necessary.
3. All macrophytes present are recorded, together with the estimated percentage cover of
each taxon (recorded as abundance classes: the Species Cover Value or SCV) and the
estimated percentage cover of overall macrophyte growth. Representative samples are
taken for laboratory analysis if identification is uncertain.
4. The physical character of the survey length is recorded by estimating physical parameters,
drawing a sketch map and taking a photograph.
4.2 Pr epar ation and pr e-sur vey checks
Before going out on survey, surveyors should ensure that they have all the equipment they need,
that they know the precise location of the survey lengths to be surveyed and that they are familiar
with the necessary health and safety guidance. An equipment checklist is provided (Appendix
7).
Upon arrival at the survey site, the surveyor should confirm that the site and/or survey conditions
are suitable for an MTR survey (see Boxes 2 and 3). Think again if:
· the suffixes of confidence for the survey and comparability are C and/or III
· there has been a recent temporal perturbation (eg spate or weed-cutting)
· flows are high and/or the water is turbid
· there is heavy/steady rain and/or windy conditions
· an alternative method is more appropriate.
4.3 Site and sur vey details
The appropriate site details such as name, river, date, time and surveyor's initials are recorded
on the standard survey record sheet (see Appendix 5). In cases where surveys are undertaken by
teams of two or more surveyors, one member of the team should be charged with overall
responsibility for the survey. The initials of this 'principal surveyor' should always be listed first
on the survey sheet, before those of the co-surveyor(s), to help the auditing process (see 7.3.6).
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