Saltmarsh vegetation - State 1, heavily grazed

Saltmarshes which have a history of heavy grazing by domestic stock generally have little structural diversity. The vegetation is low-growing because of the close-cropped nature of the sward. In the UK and Ireland these are typically associated with areas in the north and west where sheep grazing is a major use.

Caption: Heavily sheep-grazed saltmarsh, Western Ireland

The structural diversity of the marsh is reduced, as most if not all of the standing crop is removed. At the same time grazing sensitive species are eliminated and tillering grasses favoured. Over time a close-cropped sward is produced which is typified by the "bowling green" lawns of north west England, sheep-grazed sites around the sea lochs of Scotland and in Ireland. The value rests more with grazing ducks and geese and use by domestic stock.