Developing Earth Observation Methods to Detect Frozen Ground and Snow Cover for Wildlife Protection

The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) is seeking a contractor with expertise in Earth Observation (EO) data processing to develop an improved method for detecting frozen ground and snow cover across England, Wales, and Scotland. This work will support the Severe Weather Scheme (SWS), which advises on restricting shooting of wildfowl and waders during harsh winter conditions when birds are most vulnerable. Background: The SWS has operated since the 1980s using weather station data to monitor ground conditions. However, the Met Office is discontinuing their data provision, requiring an alternative approach. JNCC has preliminary findings on using Earth Observation and other publicly accessible data sources that show promise but need further investigation. Key Requirements: - Review available data sources (EO, satellite, or other) that can reliably indicate frozen or snow-covered ground with morning data availability before 10:00 each day - Data must be low-cost or free, transparent, publicly available, and archivable - Trial the most promising approaches and evaluate their accuracy compared to historical SWS records - Provide recommendations for the optimal method to replace current Met Office data Scope: The project focuses on technical data assessment rather than changing the core criteria for triggering shooting restrictions. JNCC will provide guidance on geographic locations and ornithological considerations. Essential skills include EO dataset knowledge and data processing expertise; ornithological background is not required. Budget: £25,000 including VAT