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Shingle habitat loss - summary
The most widespread and damaging activity is the removal of gravel either from
the beach or more significantly the structure itself. Gravel
extraction destroys the vegetation and associated fauna and, due
to the complex structure of the matrix in which these communities develop, is
impossible to re-create. Shallower
excavations may not be so damaging in the long term though the original
surface vegetation is almost always lost. Infrastructure
development covers the surface destroying any plant or animal life
existing there. Associated activities such as the simple act of driving a vehicle
across a series of mature shingle ridges can cause damage which remains visible
for many years until the next 'natural' change takes place and the structure
is reformed.
Examples of the cumulative losses are particularly relevant to:
Other areas where significant damage has occurred include the case study sites:
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Guidance: It is clear that given the rarity of this habitat and
the extent of loss, protecting the remaining areas of intact coastal vegetated
shingle is a priority. Restoration
activities should be be directed towards reclaiming some of the lost interest.
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