2010-2012, HiDef, Zone 3 - Dogger Bank, Aerial Surveys of Sea Birds

The overall objective of the task was to undertake aerial surveys of sea birds within the Dogger Bank windfarm site (Round 3 - Zone 3) within the calendar months from April 2010 to June 2012. The methodology being used for the Forewind contract has been developed by HiDef Aerial Surveying Ltd and is based on aerial surveys using digital imaging equipment. The methodology for video survey of waterbirds was developed by HiDef in conjunction with JNCC. Field trials of this system have demonstrated its ability to meet or exceed the performance requirements specified within the BTO report with current method and protocol directives endorsed by all relevant stake holders including JNCC, SNH, CCW, Natural England, Defra, MFA and The Crown Estate. HiDef was contracted to fly surveys focusing on the following areas within Dogger Bank. Zone - April 2010 to Dec 2010 Tranche A - Jan 2011 to Dec 2011 Tranche B - July 2011 to Jun 2012 For each survey month flown the following are produced. - Report (PDF) - Observations (ESRI shapefile and Excel spreadsheet) - Tracks (ESRI shapefile)