Predicted distribution of biotopes using data from SEA surveys from 2003 & 2006 together with BGS data.

This project attempts to map the broadscale biotopes and habitats of the rocky reef sites west of the Outer Hebrides through integrating multibeam echosounder data, acoustic ground discrimination system (AGDS) data, underwater video/camera surveys and grab data, facilitated through the use of GIS. Where possible, biotopes have been resolved and classified using the National Marine Habitat Classification for Britain and Ireland (Connor et al., 2004).

Envision Mapping was sub-contracted by Heriot Watt University for Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) to undertake broad scale subtidal biotope mapping of Sullom Voe cSAC. Sullom Voe in the Shetland Isles is the most northerly site in the UK to be selected as a representative of large shallow inlets and bays, and within the site series it is the only Scottish example of a ria (known locally as a ?voe?). The boreal-arctic (northern) species-rich communities of Sullom Voe are restricted to Shetland voes and are not represented elsewhere in the SAC series. The purpose was to map the main features and biota using acoustic remote sensing techniques combined with grab and video sampling.

null

A map of predicted subtidal lifeforms around St Kilda including Hirta, Dun, Levenish, Soay and Boreray

The kelp beds and interspersed sandy bays around Sanday were intensively surveyed using an acoustic ground discrimination system for remote survey and a towed video for ground truth sampling. The data were analysed using image classification techniques to produce a map showing the distribution of the kelp life forms and sand habitats. Phase 2 diver records were used, together with the video records, to describe the biotopes in detail. The kelp biotopes were typical of those described in the UK National Marine Biotope Classification (Connor et al. 1997). The report will inform site managers (including non-marine officers in Scottish Natural Heritage) of the biological importance of the kelp beds.

The study ?Trialing of AGDS and video sledge monitoring techniques in Loch Maddy? is part of a larger project ?Loch Maddy monitoring trials? which itself contributes to Task 2.1 of the UK marine SACs LIFE project. This aims to establish an appropriate programme of surveillance and monitoring for the Special Areas for Conservation (SAC) and to trial monitoring methodologies and protocols for the features of a site. The Loch Maddy project will assist in the development of best practise for future monitoring and reporting programmes for other marine SACs in the UK and Europe. The first phase (1998-9) concentrates on testing variability within methodologies and the determination of the minimum intensity of sampling necessary to provide adequate data for monitoring. The second phase (1999-2000) will concentrate on repeatability However, the major part of the 1998-9 study, which concentrates on the use of acoustic ground discrimination systems (AGDS) for biotope mapping, will make use of previous mapping studies undertaken in 1996 and will provide valuable guidance for future studies on repeatability of mapping.

The study ?Trialing of AGDS and video sledge monitoring techniques in Loch Maddy? is part of a larger project ?Loch Maddy monitoring trials? which itself contributes to Task 2.1 of the UK marine SACs LIFE project. This aims to establish an appropriate programme of surveillance and monitoring for the Special Areas for Conservation (SAC) and to trial monitoring methodologies and protocols for the features of a site. The Loch Maddy project will assist in the development of best practise for future monitoring and reporting programmes for other marine SACs in the UK and Europe. The first phase (1998-9) concentrates on testing variability within methodologies and the determination of the minimum intensity of sampling necessary to provide adequate data for monitoring. The second phase (1999-2000) will concentrate on repeatability However, the major part of the 1998-9 study, which concentrates on the use of acoustic ground discrimination systems (AGDS) for biotope mapping, will make use of previous mapping studies undertaken in 1996 and will provide valuable guidance for future studies on repeatability of mapping.

The Loch of Stenness is the largest saline lagoon in the UK and has been proposed as a cSAC. SeaMap were contracted to carry out a comprehensive survey and mapping exercise of the subtidal and intertidal habitats and associated biota of the loch in its entirety and that part of the Loch of Harray where this was found to have any brackish water. The survey was carried out using AGDS and direct observation using a towed video system and grab samples. Salinity was also measured.

A survey of habitats and biota within the Papa Stour cSAC