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The Lichen Survey Group aims to promote and encourage the study and recording of lichens on the Purbeck Heaths and in the surrounding area. Initially, the group will focus on Cladonia lichens, a characteristic and ecologically important group within heathland habitats. As the group develops, there is scope to broaden our surveys to include other lichen groups in the future.
he group builds on the knowledge and experience gained during the Cladonia lichen workshop led by Bryan Edwards in March 2025. During this workshop, Bryan gave an introduction to Cladonia lichens and their identification. A summary of this presentation is available in the Resources (link) section of our website, alongside the Field Key to Cladonia lichens of the Dorset Heaths, which was specifically developed for the workshop (link). Additional resources will be added as the group becomes established.
This is a self-learning group, recognising that lichens can be challenging to identify, especially at the beginning. Members will have a range of experience and skill levels, and the emphasis is on learning together, sharing observations, and collectively improving identification skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.
The group will initially meet fortnightly on Wednesdays throughout autumn and winter. This is an excellent time of year to study lichens, as they are often in better condition and more visible, and it also provides a valuable focus during a period when recording activity for many other taxonomic groups is reduced.
If you have any questions about the group or its events, please contact Jasper Iepema (Jasper@purbeckecology.org.uk) or Jim White (Jim@louern.co.uk)
