The Integrated Habitat System (IHS) has been developed by SERC in consultation with other organisations over the last seven years.

Its objectives are:

• To provide an integrated approach to the collection, management and analysis of habitat data in the UK
• To optimise use of existing habitat data through effective translation
• To provide a basis for overviews of the habitat resource, for biodiversity planning and other purposes

IHS represents an integration of existing classifications in use in the UK with particular emphasis on Biodiversity Broad Habitat Types, Biodiversity Priority Habitat Types, Annex 1 of the Habitats Directive and Phase 1.

IHS comprises:

• The integrated classification, including definitions of over 400 categories
• A software translation tool, including translation of Phase 1 data to BAP priority habitats and the full IHS
• Field survey & air photo interpretation manuals
• GIS data capture, management and analysis protocols

It has been in operational use at SERC since 1999, in the Kent Wildlife Habitat Survey since 2000 and is being built into the English Nature commissioned NBN SW Pilot Habitat Inventory Project. The latest version 2.001, incorporates recent changes made to BAP Priority Habitat coverage.

IHS is now available to users on CD-ROM for a purchase price of £300 plus VAT and an update fee of £60 per annum. More information