Forestry Commission - CGO Ecology Ltd

2015 - Brush-cutting of pine regeneration on SSSI heathland - Hurn Forest, Dorset.
2015 - New Forest Adder Hibernaculum Inventory Phase 2 - Ground-truthing of all known adder hibernation sites in the New Forest, to: 1) improve polygon positional accuracy, shape and size; 2) survey quality and persistence of suitable vegetation cover and topographic features; 3) assess habitat condition and recommend management actions; 4) scope potential undiscovered hibernation areas; 5 - recommend options for Phase 3 surveys and future work - New Forest, Hampshire.
2014 - New Forest Adder Hibernaculum Inventory Phase 1 - Desk-based survey of adder (Vipera berus) hibernacula locations, creation of a GIS site register/inventory, analysis, heathland and forest management advice to safeguard adder hibernation locations. The project was commissioned for the New Forest Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) Agreement for The Verderers of the New Forest, and included National Trust Northern Commons, by agreement. Data was gathered from a range of recorders, experts and data-holders, including ARC, HBIC, NE, NFNPA, FC, and various independent voluntary recorders. The geographical scope spanned the entire Open Forest and Inclosures land holdings of the Crown Estate in the New Forest National Park, as well as Commons owned by the National Trust, and adjacent areas outside the National Park. The exercise also involved development of a proposal for future adder survey and research across the New Forest, Hampshire.
2013-2016 - Reptile surveys in four forest areas, as part of Specialist Ecological Surveys Framework Contract (South England Forest District) - area 1 (Wareham, Ringwood), area 2 (New Forest), area 3 (Isle of Wight), area 4 (Micheldever, Chiddingfold, South Downs). Won by open tender.
2013-2016 - Amphibian surveys in two forest areas, as part of Specialist Ecological Surveys Framework Contract (South England Forest District) - area 1 (Wareham, Ringwood), area 2 (New Forest). Won by open tender.
2011-2012 - Reptile surveys of Clipstone Forest/Sherwood Pines Country Park, Nottinghamshire.

Tony Fernand, Secretary, The Incorporated Bournemouth Free Church Council

CGO Ecology were engaged by us to deal with a major badger problem. Their advice, care, communication skills, and sheer professionalism, were of immense help in solving this situation satisfactorily. We would highly recommend them to any potential client
Susan Ross, Frankham Farm, Ryme Intrinseca

We applied to build a barn to be sited on an arable field. The council asked for a biodiversity appraisal, and placed a short deadline for receipt. We engaged Dr Chris Gleed-Owen who made a site visit within days, and delivered a fully researched report with plans, species list and recommendation a few days later, within the required timescale. We have therefore avoided the need for extensions and delays. Thank you Chris
James Diamond, Natural England Director of Operations

Natural England is really pleased to have helped make the A338 road re-construction in Dorset a success. It has been an innovative, cost effective way of working with rare and protected reptiles, avoiding the need for costly fencing and delays, and resulting in many more, far reaching benefits for reptile populations and their special heathland habitat. The close collaboration between Natural England, Dorset County Council, CGO Ecology and Hansons has produced a new method of working which we are already using in other development projects; facilitating development while delivering better results for protected species and their habitats.
Dr Phil Sterling, Coast & Countryside Service Manager, Dorset County Council

We are very pleased with the firm yet pragmatic approach that Chris takes towards the reptile issues we push in his direction from time to time. The County Council needs to save money in delivering its public services, and Chris has really embraced this by finding ways to minimise cost to the client while delivering a better environment for reptiles at the same time. He is widely respected in his profession, and it is obvious to see why when you work with him.
Mrs J Burry, Wimborne.

I needed a bat survey for planning requirements, and contacted Noel Bergin from CGO Ecology. The communication, information and survey of the property were efficient and timely, ensuring my planning application was not held up. Thank you for an excellent and prompt service. I would definitely recommend this company.
Dr Tony Gent, CEO, Amphibian & Reptile Conservation Trust

We feel confident appointing CGO Ecology to take forward a wide range of work, including innovative research projects where we can rely on their knowledge, skills and professionalism to deliver high quality and informative reports on time.
Simeon Smith, Simecology Ltd

CGO Ecology have undertaken several projects for Simecology. On every occasion they have provided us with an excellent service. Their delivery of reptile mitigation is underpinned by a very obvious knowledge and understanding of the species. Reports have been thorough and informative.
Dr Diana Ward, Ward Ecology

Chris Gleed Owen uses his extensive knowledge to good effect when solving difficult problems.
Chris Cathrine, Director, Caledonian Conservation Ltd

In-depth knowledge of reptile & amphibian ecology coupled with an ability to communicate to any audience makes Chris a valuable member on any ecology project team.