White-clawed Crayfish Surveys and Ark Site Feasibility Study

The primary purpose of this brief is to seek the services of a suitably experienced ecological surveyor to carry out a white-clawed crayfish survey in areas of the Rye, focussing on those sites that have historic records of the species in order to provide base line figures for the existing populations. In addition surveyors will be required to undertake a rapid assessment of any on site issues at sites that are surveyed, and provide suggestions for improved management for the benefit of white-clawed crayfish. The second purpose is for the appointed consultant to undertake a feasibility study into the potential establishment of Ark sites for white-clawed crayfish to be informed by the survey stage and other available habitat, species and in-river barrier data. This will consider different options for the location of such sites, the practical management issues and recommendations to make them a success, and a high level action plan for delivering the preferred sites.