# Appendix L: Independent Expert Panel Checklist

This methodology is written for independent use, outside of certification bodies, and also for use with multiple certifiers — each of whom may adjust IEP evaluations as per internal protocols. 

### IEP composition

An IEP must include at minimum,:

1. A qualified biologist with field expertise in the ecosystem of the BCP. 
2. A topographer with competent licensing in the jurisdiction of the BCP. 
3. A legal expert who can validate contracts and land paperwork.
4. (Optional) Translation staff.

### IEP evaluation checklist

A basic checklist for IEP validation includes: 

**Biology**

* [ ] Are the Indicator species appropriately chosen for the ecosystems involved? 
* [ ] Are the Indicator species scores extrapolated from public data accurate? 
* [ ] Is a randomly selected subset of observations accurate to 90%?
* [ ] (Optional) Have iNaturalist validators given observations a "Research grade" level of independent validation?

**Topography**

* [ ] Are maps accurate and internally consistent? Do segments, titles, or ecosystems overlap? 

**Compliance**

* [ ] Are land titles valid in the jurisdiction in question? If full land title is not involved, has the BCP adequately demonstrated Land control? 

**Site visit**

* Ground-truthing site verification of FPIC