BLS Recording Scheme

Lichen Recording Scheme

The Lichen Recording Scheme is the focus for recording activity in the BLS. It was relaunched at the 2016 AGM to formalise a number of things we were doing already, but further developments are planned to enhance our support for individual recorders and projects. At present it is coordinated by Janet Simkin, who also manages the database. The recording scheme:

• Provides a central point of contact for members and other organisations
• Runs an informal network of vice county recorders and referees
• Assists with national and regional projects
• Encourages members to send in their records for inclusion in the database, either by using the BLS spreadsheet or online through iRecord
• Highlights gaps in the database that need filling, such as species or areas that are under-recorded or have not been surveyed for a long time
• Makes our lichen records available to all who need them through the online facilities provided by the National Biodiversity Network (the NBN Atlas) and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
• Provides detailed data and distribution maps to members and academics, for use in atlases, research and conservation
• Develops ID aids including the NBN Record Cleaner, a difficulty guide, and computerised identification keys

Future developments might include:

• Annual recorders conference
• E-newsletters to keep active members informed of interesting finds, new species and taxonomic revisions, records needed, etc. 
• Species accounts that are approachable and helpful to beginners as well as experts, and include information on habitat and ecology that may not be available elsewhere
• Updating the British Lichens website

Anyone interested in getting involved in current or future aspects is encouraged to get in touch with Janet Simkin on records@britishlichensociety.org.uk.