HiDef announce they have been awarded a contract by the Scottish Government to conduct aerial surveys off the west coast of Lewis, which has the potential to capitalise on some of the best marine energy resources in the country.
If the Scottish Government is to deliver on the areas potential it is vital to assess impacts on a wide range of bird species, both in the breeding season and at other times of year.
HiDef and its partner WWT Consulting will conduct a number of digital aerial surveys, in addition shore based counts will be managed by WWT Consulting.
Statistical modelling of historical data sets will also be undertaken as part of the scope of work to derive maximum value from all known data.
John Martin HiDef’s Managing Director said “we are extremely pleased to have been awarded this latest contract. In addition to another aerial deployment of our digital video technology we are to conduct very sophisticated modelling and statistical analysis, similar in nature to work we are pioneering at some of the leading UK Round 3 sites. Using historical data with improved abundance estimates derived from our own survey method provides a much richer data set and embodies the industry desire to reduce costs”
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Offshore WIND staff, March 28, 2012; Image: hidefsurveying