Integrated Habitat System

SERC has devised an innovative approach to the collection and management of habitat data. The Integrated Habitat System (IHS) links different habitat classifications together enabling disparate datasets to be combined, and is fully compatible with the British National Vegetation Classification (NVC), Phase I, Priority Habitats, and other standard classifications.

IHS was developed to achieve key objectives for users of habitat data in the UK:

• Provide an integrated approach to the collection, management and analysis of habitat data.
• Optimise use of existing habitat data through effective translation
• Provide a basis for overviews of the habitat resource, vital for developing biodiversity strategies.

What is IHS?

IHS is not an alternative to other classification systems; in fact IHS brings to habitat classification the means to easily integrate habitat data collected using different systems. Collect once, use many times is what IHS enables for users of habitat data - whether from field survey or aerial photograph interpretation.

IHS is both a tool to integrate existing habitat data and a means to capture new habitat data. The system comprises:

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

How does IHS work?

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

• Standard habitat definitions from these classifications are combined into a hierarchy starting at the level of Broad Habitat Types, through vegetation communities to habitat-specific features, such as management practices.
• IHS enables recording to whatever level of detail is required. Due to the hierarchical set up of the definitions analysis of the data can take place at many different levels, making the data much more accessible for a variety of purposes.
• User defined codes can be created to meet project-specific requirements.

Why use IHS? 

 IHS enhances the use of habitat information by;

• Providing a sound basis for survey, monitoring and analysis of habitat resources, using GIS technology.
• Bringing together categories from different classifications into as a fully integrated dataset.
• Enabling large scale mapping to be undertaken utilising the output from disparate projects.
• Combining habitat data derived from remote sensing with data derived from field survey.
• Enabling habitat maps to be easily produced at the site, regional and national scales.

IHS has many important applications:

• Analysis and reporting on Biodiversity Broad Habitats, Biodiversity Priority Habitats and Annex 1 Habitats of the EU Habitats Directive.
• Investigation of the relationship between habitats, habitat management and other datasets available in GIS format.
• Habitat monitoring at the site, county and regional scales.
• Amalgamation of habitat data held in different formats into a single system.
• Translation of existing habitat data held in Phase 1 or NVC formats into Biodiversity Broad Habitats or Biodiversity Priority Habitats.
• Field survey of habitats and/or land-use at the site, local BAP, county or regional scales.
• Remote sensing assessment of habitats and/or land-use, such as using aerial photographs.
• Management and analysis of habitat data in GIS.
• Reference source to check definitions of standard habitat categories.

Purchase IHS

IHS is available for purchase as a complete package via the IHS website. Here you can find further details about the system and its applications.

The latest version (3.0) incorporates changes in the BAP Priority Habitat definitions and modifications that users have recommended. The system has undergone constant development by SERC in line with changes in national standards. Support is given so users can remain up-to-date with the latest developments.

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