Grasses, Sedges & Rushes Field Recorder Day

Join like-minded people with an interest in recording wildlife observations for a day identifying and recording grasses, sedges & rushes in an informal environment. Naturalists of all levels (from beginner to expert) will be able to share their experiences with peers and help one another improve their knowledge and build confidence in biological recording, all under the guidance of an experienced botanist.

This event is aimed at adults only. It’s free to attend and botany recorders of all abilities are welcome, but some experience is advisable as these groups can be quite tricky. Booking is essential.

All identification will be completed in the field where possible, though please note that this event will involve some experienced individuals collecting botanical specimens for further investigation.

What will the day involve?

• Practical experience in finding and identifying grasses, sedges and rushes in the field.
• Access to a renowned botanist and the opportunity to discuss field botany.
• A chance to meet fellow like-minded people from a range of different disciplines.

Botany Specialist: Dr Mark Spencer

Mark is an experienced and internationally respected botanist. His expertise covers many disciplines including forensic botany, the plants of North-west Europe, invasive species and the history of botanical science. He also works globally as a seasoned writer, public speaker and television presenter. As a forensic botanist, Mark has worked on various missing person enquiries, murders and other serious crimes.

Recording London's wildlife

All records collected will be added to the LNHS iRecord activity in order to share our findings with the site managers, Greenspace Information for Greater London (GiGL), London Natural History Society (LNHS) and relevant national recording schemes and societies.

Grove Farm Nature Reserve

Grove Farm is a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) and a Statutory Local Nature Reserve (LNR). It is a hidden urban gem which provides a biodiverse natural space in North Greenford (Ealing). The deciduous woodland on Grove Farm contains broadleaf trees such as oak, ash, elm, hazel and blackthorn. Grove Farm has a particularly magnificent display of wood anemones in spring as well as native bluebells. It has rare trees including many wild service trees. All these species are indicators of ancient woodland. A stream runs along a valley through the site adding to its nature conservation interest.

This event is delivered by the Biological Recording Company in partnership with the Earthworm Society of Britain, Friends of Grove Farm and the London Natural History Society as part of the Empowering Community Conservation at Grove Farm project (supported by the Mayor of London via the Rewild London Fund).