Restoring stability to machair

Locally the whole vegetated machair surface has from deflation of the surface vegetation and with it much or its nature conservation value. A variety of methods have been used to prevent sand blow and restore the vegetation . These are not described in detail here, but further information can be found in a series of case studies from the Outer Hebrides (Angus & Elliot 1992). The origins and management of the machair are intimately bound up with their agricultural use. For a detailed review see Chapter 10 of the book on the Outer Hebrides (Angus 2001).

See also the Scottish Natural Heritage 'Beach Management Guide' for a general discussion of restoration action on sandy beaches and dunes.

References

Angus, S. & Elliot, M.M. 1992. Erosion in Scottish machair with particular reference to the Outer Hebrides. In: Coastal Dunes. Geomorphology, Ecology and Management: Proceedings of the Third European Dune Congres, eds.Carter, R.W.G., Curtis, T.G.F. & Sheehy-Skeffington, M.J.A.A. Balkema, Rotterdam, 93-112. Abstract...

Angus, S. 2001. The Outer Hebrides: Moor and Machair. The White Horse Press, Cambridge, 339 pp.