BC Nature has developed a draft monitoring form to pilot in IBAs across the province. This monitoring form is based on the form being used by the Federation of Alberta Naturalists and is consistent with BirdLife International protocol.

Using this form is not mandatory—rather—we are encouraging interested Caretakers to try it out and give us feedback. Over the long term, we hope to implement the use of a standardized monitoring protocol for all sites across BC that is both easy to use and consistent with protocols in other provinces and countries.

The key advantage to using standardized monitoring and recording techniques is that it is easier to collect and compare data over time and space—and not just across BC or Canada but worldwide. A complete and continuous record of standardized monitoring data will also support better conservation of the sites. For example, it is much easier to make a strong case for conservation action with the backing of a continuous and standardized record of data that highlights the conservation concern and the need for action.

Using a standard monitoring form could also make it easier for Caretakers by:

• Highlighting the type of information that would be of greatest value to collect, and
• Making reporting quicker (simply send us your completed form(s)).

To download the monitoring form in pdf format (1 mb), click here.
To download the monitoring form in word format (for filling in electronically), click here (500 kb).

For more information about how to use the monitoring form, or to give us feedback, please contact Anne Murray at sanderling@uniserve.com.