Clearing Trees and Shrubs

Open habitats like alkalinefens,petrifying springs and grassland are in many places overgrowing with trees and shrubs. The overgrowth shades the herbal vegetation and inhibits the light requiring plants. 

The project is working on the clearing of trees and shrubs in selected areas, which will subsequently be grazed. 

When clearing an area, it is important to think about what needs to be cleared and how it should be done. Individual trees, bushes and shrubs have a value as habitats for many animals and plants. It, should be assessed whether conservation efforts are needed rather than just a clearing. Once an area is cleared, it is important that the area is grazed to prevent it from overgrowing again. 

Clearing wet areas causes particular problems, and it can be difficult or impossible to move around there. It is important to use machines and other equipment to ensure that the soil is not disturbed or that deep tracks from wheels are not formed. When clearing grassland, it is often difficult to move on the steep slopes.