1. Purpose of monitoring and research
Monitoring and research help the Foundation understand biodiversity, track ecological change, evaluate the impact of interventions, and plan long-term conservation work. This Policy applies to all wildlife and habitat monitoring on Foundation land, as well as collaborative research with partners.
2. Ethical and responsible data collection
All ecological data collection is designed to minimise disturbance to wildlife and habitats. Non-invasive methods are preferred, and intrusive techniques are only used where scientifically justified and legally permitted.
Devices such as camera traps, acoustic sensors, drones, or environmental loggers must be deployed responsibly, with clear justification and appropriate review. Monitoring activity must comply with the Ethical Technology & Data Use Policy.
3. Data protection, privacy & landowner obligations
While ecological monitoring focuses on wildlife and habitats, some tools may incidentally capture information relating to people. Any data that could identify an individual is handled in accordance with our Privacy Notice and relevant data protection law.
Monitoring devices are never used for surveillance of staff, volunteers, or the public. Where monitoring occurs in areas accessible to visitors, clear signage or notices may be provided.
4. Scientific integrity & documentation
Research and monitoring must be conducted to high scientific standards, with accurate recording, transparent methodology, and clear documentation of aims and limitations. Results should be repeatable where appropriate, and data securely stored.
Where findings inform management decisions—such as habitat restoration, rewilding, or species protection—they must be reviewed alongside ecological expertise and ethical considerations.
5. Collaboration with researchers & partners
The Foundation works with universities, research bodies, conservation organisations, and community groups to deepen ecological understanding. All partnerships are assessed for alignment with our mission and ethical standards.
Any external researchers working on Foundation land must follow this Policy, relevant environmental and wildlife law, and any access or permit conditions set by the Foundation.
6. Public engagement & community science
We support community involvement in conservation through guided surveys, walks, educational events, and structured citizen-science projects. These activities are designed to build understanding while safeguarding wildlife, habitats, and the integrity of long-term monitoring datasets.
Activities involving children, young people, or adults at risk comply with our Safeguarding Policy.
7. Drones & remote sensing
Drone use is restricted to authorised personnel or licensed partners, with clear ecological, research, or land-management purpose. Flights must comply with aviation law and environmental guidance, including restrictions around nesting seasons or sensitive habitats.
Recreational drone use on Foundation land is prohibited unless explicitly permitted for a structured educational or research purpose.
8. Publication, transparency & open knowledge
The Foundation aims to share learnings publicly wherever appropriate, contributing to wider conservation knowledge. This may include annual reports, research summaries, open datasets, or collaborative publications.
We do not publish information that could endanger protected species, sensitive habitats, or partner confidentiality.
9. Review & continuous improvement
This Policy is reviewed regularly to reflect new research practices, ecological needs, and regulatory requirements. Updates will be published on this page.
Feedback from partners, staff, and community participants helps shape how we conduct future monitoring and research activities.