A report by the National Trust based on a commissioned study by Jonathan Cox Associates (Cox and Sanderson, 2001).

2002

CONTENTS

1. Introduction

2. What are we trying to conserve? Parkland features of nature conservation importance
2.1 Grasslands
2.2 Trees
2.3 Dead wood
2.4 Fungi
2.5 Parkland soils
2.6 Scrub
2.7 Wetlands
2.8 Animal dung

3. Threats to parkland ecology - what can damage the features of value?
3.1 Stock Management
3.1.1 Stocking Rates
3.1.2 Stock types and breeds
3.1.3 Grazing season and period
3.1.4 Supplementary feeding
3.1.5 Use of veterinary products
3.2 Agricultural practices associated with grazing management
3.2.1 Fertiliser use
3.2.2 Silage and hay production; cutting, rolling, harrowing and topping
3.2.3 Arable cultivation or cultivation for re-seeding
3.2.4 Use of farm machinery
3.2.5 Use of herbicides
3.2.6 Drainage
3.3 Tree and woodland management
3.4 Threats to wood pastures associated with parks

4. Management recommedations for conserving or restoring the nature conservation interest of parklands
Box 1 Ideal Stock Management
Box 2 Ideal Grassland Management
Box 3 Ideal Tree and Scrub Management
Box 4 Ideal Wetland Management

5. References and further reading