River Condition Assessments
River Condition Assessments
A River Condition Assessment (RCA) shows how healthy a river or stream is, based on its shape, bed and banks, vegetation and the pressures on it. RCAs are used to set a baseline, plan enhancements, monitor change over time and support Biodiversity Net Gain reporting.
We carry out River Condition Assessments across most of the UK from our base in Manchester.
MoRPh5 surveys
Our fieldwork uses the MoRPh5 survey method. Five linked MoRPh modules are surveyed along a stretch of river, usually 50 to 250m long. Each module records detail on the channel shape, sediments, vegetation structure and pressures across the bed, banks and margins.
The data is turned into a set of scores that give a consistent, repeatable condition assessment for that stretch of river. MoRPh surveys are the field part of a River Condition Assessment and are recognised by professional biodiversity, habitat and planning frameworks.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a River Condition Assessment for BNG?
If your site includes or is next to a river or stream, the watercourse part of the biodiversity metric needs a river condition assessment. We can carry it out alongside the rest of your BNG work.
Get a quote
Send us the site location and the watercourse involved, and we’ll come back to you with a quote.
Fish Surveys and Fish Rescue
Safely capture and relocate fish before work to protect aquatic life and habitats.
Protected Species Surveys
Find out whether protected wildlife uses your site before works start.
Biodiversity Net Gain
Quantify habitat losses and gains to secure an uplift in biodiversity.
Invasive Species Surveys
Map and ID non‑native plants to guide land management & protect biodiversity.
Preliminary Ecological Appraisal
PEAs rapidly assess a site’s habitats and species to flag ecological issues early.
