IHS represents an integration of existing classifications in use in the UK:
- Biodiversity Broad Habitat Types (Complete)
- Biodiversity Priority Habitat Types (Complete)
- Annex 1 Habitats Directive (Complete for UK)
- Phase 1 (NCC/RSNC) (Partial)
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 used 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 and air photo interpretation manuals
- GIS data capture, management and analysis protocols
The latest version (2.0) incorporates feedback from early users and changes made in 2006 to BAP Priority Habitat coverage, and was available from January 2007
Concepts behind IHS
- An integrated approach to habitat classifications, using GIS technology, can provide a sound basis for survey, monitoring and analysis of the habitat resource.
- Categories from different habitat classifications can be usefully brought together into an integrated system.
- Habitat data derived from remote sensing can be successfully combined with habitat data derived from field survey.
- An integrated habitat system can provide useful products at local, regional and national level.
- Authorities should be quoted for habitat category names, linked to definitions, as in species taxonomy.
- Translation of habitat data collected using one classification can be translated into an integrated system, to give a useful product with defined limitations.
Use of IHS
IHS can be used for any or all of the following purposes:
- As a basis for field survey of habitats and/or land-use at the site, local BAP, county or regional scales
- As a reference source to check definitions of commonly used habitat categories
- As a basis for remote sensing assessment of habitats and/or land-use, especially through aerial photographs
- To translate existing habitat data held in Phase 1 or NVC formats into Biodiversity Broad Habitats or Biodiversity Priority Habitats, where possible
- To manage and analyse habitat data in GIS
- To bring together habitat data held in different formats into a single system
- As a basis for analysis and reporting on Biodiversity Broad Habitats, Biodiversity Priority Habitats and Annex 1 Habitats of the EU Habitats Directive
- To investigate the relationship between habitats, habitat management and other datasets that may be available in GIS format
- As a basis for habitat monitoring at the site, local BAP, county or regional scales
Component Parts of IHS
The classification comprises over 460 habitat categories, the majority drawn from existing classifications, together with descriptions, authorities and correspondences arranged in a logical hierarchy that allows application for different purposes. The classification can be customised for a geographical area or special project use without losing data integrity.
- Field survey and air photo interpretation manuals
The manuals describe recommended use of IHS for original data capture through both field survey and air photo interpretation processes. - GIS data capture, management and analysis protocols
Protocols have been developed with the objective of providing maximum compatibility between datasets and utility to the data user. - Software translation tool, including translation of Phase 1 and NVC data to BAP priority habitats and the full IHS
The translation tool allows the user to translate existing data held in Phase 1 or NVC format into IHS in a semi-automated process. The user can exercise judgement, apply local knowledge or access further data to complete the translation
