A one day field based course in Devon to build confidence in surveying grasslands out of season.

This course is likely to be of interest to ecological consultants, farm advisers, land managers and conservationists that are required to visit sites throughout the year.

We will spend time looking at physical attributes of grasslands and indicator species to help build a picture of grassland type and condition at unfavourable times of year. We will be based at National Trust's Killerton Estate, near Exeter where we will spend a small amount of time indoors before visiting several local grassland sites.

We will spend some time looking at plant identification but this course will focus on indicator species and assessing grassland habitats.

About your tutor

Hannah Gibbons is an experienced habitat and botanical surveyor who has been running plant identification training courses since 2011. In 2025 Hannah set up Teylu Ecology with her brother Luke.

Feedback from previous courses

'I thought the course was fantastic! I really learnt a lot and consolidated what I knew also. I think the time split between class and outside was great, venue great and the farm visit/host was lovely too.'

'I love to learn botany with Hannah, she brings such enthusiasm and teaches in a way that is easy, memorable and fun, she really brings the subject to life! Thank you Hannah for a fantastic day of learning'

What to bring

Waterproofs, boots/wellies (we will visit a wet site!)

Hand lens

Clipboad / notebook

Lunch and water (hot drinks will be provided)

Itinary

9.45 - Arrival time (tea/coffees)

10am - Introduction to grassland surveying in winter

11am - Travel to local site

1pm - Lunch (outdoors if weather suitable)

1.30pm - Travel to local site

4pm - Depart

Please inform us of any relevant medical requirements/conditions we should be aware of prior to the course.

The course will be based at the Engine House (what3words: crafts.profited.heats) which is located adjacent to the main Killerton House carpark. As you enter the main car park you will find the Engine House on the left near to the toilet block. Charges apply at the carpark (unless you are a National Trust member).

Description supplied by the event organiser.