Habitat surveys (also known as a Phase 1 Habitat Survey) will involve walking around your site to identify  the main habitats present such as woodland, farmland, hedgerows. The survey will also highlight key ecological features present within the zone of influence, such ponds. A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) is the first stage in assessing the ecological importance of a site and enables identification of features of particular ecological interest. The PEA collates information gathered from the Phase 1 Habitat Survey and desk study, including  purchasing reports from the local record centre and a search for statutory designated sites within a zone of influence, to identify the constraints and opportunities of the proposed development and details any further Phase II surveys which may be required. The PEA is used to inform the evolving design of a project and is used to inform site proposals prior to development. Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) is the process of identifying, quantifying, and evaluating potential effects of development-related (or other proposed) actions on habitats, species, and ecosystems, to ensure no let loss of biodiversity and help enhance ecological integrity. The EcIA identifies the ecological features of the site including results of any Phase II survey, their ecological importance, the impacts, mitigation, compensation and enhancement required to inform a planning application. Phase 1 Habitat Surveys can be carried out October-March. Phase 1 & NVC April-September.