Throughout the NBN, legacy datasets are held in boxes of field maps and recording forms, photographs, specimen collections, reports, recording cards or natural history notebooks. The amount of legacy data held in un-digitised formats is unknown, and it is not unreasonable to assume that this could be five times as much as are currently digitised and available.  

There is a pressing need to identify and mobilise these data to unlock their full potential, safeguard these datasets from destruction and ensure that they are put to their best use to justify the efforts and resources used to collect them.  Coupled with this, opening up data for use in creative and innovative ways, will inspire and encourage a new generation of biological recorders to continue our rich tradition of nature observation.

The NBN Trust was recently funded by the Cabinet Office via the Release of Data Fund to facilitate partners in the Network to mobilise 20 undigitsed datasets.  We want to keep bidding for such funding as opportunities arise to help you mobilise your data.  Please tell us what data you have, or know of, via the following Google Form. This information will allow us to assess how many datasets require digitisation across the Network and help us to secure future funding to mobilise these valuable datasets through building a robust case for investment.


N.B. All personal information will be treated in accordance to the Data Protection Act 1998. We will only use your details for keeping you up to date with our progress on securing funding to help you mobilise your data.  We will not pass your information on to other parties.