Biodiversity & Protected Species

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  • Expert Advice on the biodiversity & protection of rare species in all aquatic habitats

  • Monitoring of sensitive habitats & assessment of management practices such as flood defence, land drainage, weed cutting & dredging

  • Robust scientific investigation of the conservation & protection of rare or endangered species

  • High calibre, public inquiry defensible aquatic Environmental Impact Assessment for planners & developers

  • Condition assessment, new site investigations & management guidelines

 

What can we offer?

APEM offers extensive experience in aquatic ecology and management in relation to rare and protected species. We boast a team of licensed surveyors who are experienced in survey and translocation methods for white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius), great crested newt (Triturus cristatus), freshwater pearl-mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), water vole (Arvicola terrestris) and otter (Lutra lutra) among many other protected species. We have been involved in a number of major conservation and protection programmes and in high-profile, multi-agency projects promoting greater biodiversity.  

 

Why choose APEM?

APEM is a science-based consultancy, working exclusively in the realm of Aquatic Science for over 20 years. We operate UK-wide, providing a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to the monitoring and management of aquatic ecosystems. Our scientists are recognised experts in their diverse and specialist fields. Our teams work to exacting standards and are committed to providing a professional, client-focused service. 

Our work has informed national policy and guidance documents and a range of Research and Development and policy projects for the regulators and other agencies. This has included major contributions to the 'LIFE in UK Rivers' series on rare and endangered species. As part of this EU initiative we've developed monitoring techniques for the conservation agencies for a range of threatened species including lampreys, bullhead, spined loach, Arctic char and powan.

APEM has carried out many large and small scale studies under European Habitats and Species legislation, monitoring species and habitats within Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), Special Protection Areas (SPA) and Ramsar sites.  

 

Who are our clients?

We work for a wide range of organisations including:

  • Environment Agency 

  • SEPA

  • Highways Agency

  • Conservation agencies 

  • British Waterways

  • Water & power companies 

  • Local authorities 

  • Environmental consultancies 

  • Angling clubs & associations 

  • Regional Development Agencies 

 

Key Projects

Crayfish Assessment

Lamprey Population Surveys

Great Crested newt

Water Vole Surveys  

Bullhead Investigations

Spined Loach Surveys