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Restoring cliff top chalk grassland from arable land
Experimental studies on the restoration of chalk grassland have been undertaken
on arable land, which has remained uncultivated for 10 years. They indicate
that the buried seed content of chalk grassland species in the soil is insufficient
to prevent the establishment of more aggressive 'weedy' species. Artificial
introduction of chalk grassland species is recommended (Hutchings
& Booth 1996). Follow-up treatment using mowing and/or grazing will
help the establishment of these species. It is felt this approach could be particularly
applicable to extensification of agriculture designed to restore chalk grassland
(Hutchings & Booth 1996).
The National Trust have also restored 80 ha of coastal land on Fullers Earth
Clay to species-rich calcareous grassland. The land was cultivated for cereals
for a short period, having previously been unimproved pasture. The fields are
being allowed to revert naturally and are grazed sympathetically by South Devon
cattle, the breed having been chosen for its ability to thrive on poor quality
forage.
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Guidance: Guidance on the use of grazing animals can be obtained
by making reference to the practical experience obtained by the National
Trust.
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References
Hutchings, M.J. & Booth, K.D.
1996.
Studies of the Feasibility of Re-Creating Chalk Grassland Vegetation on Ex-Arable Land. II. Germination and Early Survivorship of Seedlings Under Different Management Regimes.
Journal of Applied Ecology, 33/5., 1182-1190.
Abstract...
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