To ensure the quality of species data held by BRERC, all submitted information undergoes rigorous validation and verification procedures. Taxa new to the region or known to be difficult to determine are automatically highlighted, the following guidelines are followed, and if necessary data is referred to other local experts for verification.

Records are entered with the correct scientific nomenclature in accordance with the nationally recognised Species Dictionary used by the National Biodiversity Network (NBN). Our database is also regularly modified and updated to reflect changes in both the current preferred nomenclature of different taxonomic groups, and their conservation status.

BRERC data is uploaded to the NBN Atlas; and feedback from external specialists often allows further refinements to be made to our data.

Data Validation

A check of the completeness of the record; Are all details of the record present and valid?

What was the species? Where was it seen? When was it seen? Who saw it?

Does the location description match the grid reference supplied?

Are all the recorders' details available for internal use?

Is the species name correct?

Is it a singular or multiple records? (Eg: A Robin in an Oak tree)

Note: Although a recorder name is a necessary requirement for every record, names are treated as confidential data and are not released to third parties (in accordance with the Data Protection Act and GDPR). See our Privacy Notice for more information.

Data Verification

A check of the accuracy of the identification; Is the species likely to have been present at that date and location?

BRERC’s verification procedure is a process based on a series of checks against existing evidence, with a final decision based on the balance of probability

The following process is used as a guide;