A passion for all things botanical

Ward’s Ecology is a family-run botanical consultancy, led by Worcestershire-based botanist Tom Ward. We combine teaching and technical expertise to provide training and ecological advice in Worcestershire and all surrounding counties.

Testimonials

Karen Rose
Biodiversity and Wildlife Officer
Wychavon District Council

“Tom recently completed a botanical survey for us near Pershore. He was enthusiastic, friendly and knowledgeable and communicated clearly throughout.

The final report was delivered promptly and was clear and useful for keen botanists and non-botanists alike. I would be very happy to recommend Tom for similar ecological work”

Tom Richards
Associate Ecologist
CSA Environmental

“Our team had a fantastic training day with Tom, his knowledge and approachable teaching style made the day both engaging and enjoyable.

The session was well organised and tailored to our needs — we learned a huge amount and look forward to working with him again”

Sam Groves
County Ecologist, Worcestershire County Council

“Engaging, enthusiastic and well-structured training. With Tom’s highly specialised knowledge of this part of the country, we’re really looking forward to getting out with him to learn more, later in the year”

Jacob Loughran
Catchment Restoration Officer
Severn Rivers Trust

“Tom is the first person I would go to for a detailed understanding of a site and its sensitivities from a botanical perspective.

His work has helped us inform restoration objectives, provide baselines and monitor progress towards target habitats, based on what’s appropriate for the ecology of our site”

Ecological Services

Our comprehensive suite of ecological services caters to a diverse range of clients including local authorities, environmental NGOs and commercial consultancies.

Biodiversity Net Gain Feasibility (BNG)

Includes a comprehensive UK Habitat Classification survey, statutory condition assessments, and precise habitat mapping. We deliver baseline metric calculations using the Statutory Biodiversity Metric to provide clear baseline data and practical feasibility insights for your project.

NVC Surveys

In-depth, quantitative botanical surveys mapped using British Plant Communities. We are experienced in delivering National Vegetation Classification (NVC) assessments for complex sites and high-distinctiveness habitats.

UK Habitat Classification Surveys

UKHab surveys for baseline data collection or long-term monitoring, capable of mapping down to UKHab Level 5. Expert identification of Annex 1 and Priority Habitats to deliver reliable, high-tier data that informs management decisions.

River Condition Assessments (RCA)

Full River Condition Assessments utilising the standard River MoRPh methodology. Crucial for evaluating rivers, streams, and riparian corridors to calculate accurate river units for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) compliance.

Botanical Walkovers and Site Species Lists

Detailed site species lists to document existing botanical interest and value. This service includes targeted surveys for Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) under Schedule 9, as well as protected (Schedule 8) and Section 41 Priority species.

Habitat Management Plans

Tailored management plans that outline ecological best practices, long-term habitat management methods, and monitoring schedules. Designed to ensure your site maximises its biodiversity potential.