Assessing the likelihood of a species occurring—from individual sites to broader landscapes—is a fundamental aspect of our ecological consulting services, underpinning everything from targeted conservation management plans to regional biodiversity strategies.

This research project focused on refining and standardising the methods for assessing the Likelihood of Occurrence (LoO) of a species. Through a literature review of existing methods, a collaborative workshop with experts, and the development of internal guidelines, the team produced foundational resources to support consistent LoO assessments.

The refined LoO assessment method was designed to promote consistency among staff, but testing revealed that variation in results remained similar before and after its adoption. This outcome highlights the importance of developing clear, practical guidelines and reinforces the value of ongoing internal review and continuous improvement within ecological assessment workflows. Through the creation of a standardised LoO assessment method and the facilitation of collaborative workshops, we strengthen our commitment to technical excellence, innovation, and evidence-based practice—core values at EcoFutures Consulting. These initiatives not only enhance the reliability and scientific rigour of our ecological consulting outcomes, but also ensure staff expertise is continually developed through the sharing of knowledge and best-practice resources. By fostering collaboration and continual refinement, our team is empowered to deliver consistent, high-quality services aligned with EcoFutures’ mission.