Upland Habitats and Impacts of Herbivores, Isle of Jura – Event summary

The impacts of grazing of both domestic and wild herbivores affects the long term sustainability of upland habitats. For upland managers it is important to recognise these different upland habitats and be able to identify their condition in relation to management. Habitat condition, as indicated by the vegetation type, cover and height is determined by the level of grazing and trampling. Good habitat condition is important for supporting wildlife and for optimum carbon storage capacity both important factors in sustainable land management.

A simple habitat assessment can be carried out at plots across each habitat type to give a base-line of habitat condition. Regular assessments can be used to show local grazing or trampling pressures and trends over a period of time on an upland estate or at a wider deer management group level. The information can be used to help set targets for stock or deer management and enable managers to understand how their management of herbivores is affecting the moorland habitats and  wherechanges could be made.

This meeting started in a shed on Ardlussa estate on the remote north end of Jura. The first part included an introduction and presentation by Helen Bibby a Conservation consultant from SAC, on upland habitat types and their main characteristics including peat depth and vegetation and the impact of different types of herbivore. The second presentation also by Helen focussed on how to examine these impacts using standard and recognised means using SNH best practice guides. There was an explanation of the value of the peatland habitats for wildlife, carbon and water followed by discussion. Professor Rory Putman gave an introduction to the practicalities of using this technique and provided more information to enable surveyors to use additional techniques in the field.

Following the presentations the attendees were taken to hill ground where the different upland habitats could be identified and grazing, trampling and tracking impacts could be examined closely.  Refreshments in the field allowed attendees to discuss techniques. There was a lot of opportunity for discussion and lots of questions asked regarding the practicality of assessment in the field.

Please use the links below to access the presentations given on during the event and to download the information available to take home.