Habitat Management & Monitoring Plan(HMMP)
Photo Credit: Ross Hoddinott/2020VISION
Habitat Management & Monitoring Plan (HMMP)
A Habitat Management & Monitoring Plan (HMMP) is a formal document used in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) projects in England to explain how habitats will be created, enhanced, maintained, and monitored over time, usually for at least 30 years.
A HMMP begins with a baseline survey by a qualified ecologist to assess existing habitats, their condition, and opportunities for enhancement or creation. Each plan is tailored to the site, with objectives that may include delivering Biodiversity Net Gain, improving carbon storage, protecting priority habitats and enhancing habitat connectivity.
A desk study reviews local species, habitats, and designations to identify constraints and any licensing requirements.
The HMMP then sets out a clear long-term vision for the site, alongside detailed management actions, implementation timing, and measurable success criteria to ensure habitats are created, enhanced, and maintained effectively over time.
Key Components of a HMMP:
Site and Habitat Description
- Baseline ecological condition of the site
- Habitat types (e.g. grassland, woodland, wetlands)
- Reference to the site visit and the Defra Biodiversity Metric
Timescale & Responsibilities
- Minimum 30-year management period
- Roles and responsibilities (developer, landowner, management body)
Objectives & Targets
- What habitats will be created or improved
- Target condition (e.g. species-rich grassland in good condition)
- BNG units to be achieved and maintained
Management Actions
Detailed prescriptions such as:
- Planting schemes
- Grazing or mowing regimes
- Invasive species control
- Water management (for wetlands)
These actions are usually broken down by year and season.
Monitoring Plan
- How progress will be monitored (e.g. vegetation surveys)
- Frequency of monitoring (often annually or every few years)
- Who carries it out (ecologist, land manager, etc.)
Adaptive Management
- What happens if targets aren’t met
- Contingency actions (e.g. reseeding, changing management approach)