Data Collection
3.3.1 Four biodiversity indicators were selected: botany, birds, invertebrates (bumblebees and butterflies) and bats. The survey protocol for each discipline is provided within Appendix A. A brief description of the approach to data collection is outlined below.
3.3.2 These indicators were selected for a variety of reasons including: the role and importance of the receptor within an ecological community; whether the species group is used as a typical indicator of biodiversity and ecosystem health7; the ease and practicality of collecting information within the available survey period and budget; species groups for which questions remain regarding the impact of solar arrays; and species groups which are thought to be adversely affected by solar arrays.
Botany
3.3.3 Quadrat surveys were used to compare the botany present within the solar array and the control plot. Ten quadrats were surveyed within the solar plot (from between the panel rows) and 10 quadrats from the control plot for this purpose. Within the solar plot, a further 10 quadrats were collected directly beneath the solar panel rows. These quadrats were compared to those collected between the rows to assess the effects of shading and water stress on plant communities. The locations of the quadrats were randomly picked prior to visiting site in order to avoid surveyor bias.