# file3

FAUNA:
The leaf litter provides a good habitat for invertebrates.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pubescens}, with a few {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} mature standards.  A couple of {\it Pinus sylvestris} stand to the centre, but look over-crowded, and fallen {\it Pinus sylvestris} are noticable elsewhere.  The understory occasionally contains {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Corylus avellana}, whilst the ground flora consists of {\it Molinia caerulea, Poa} spp. and occasional {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  Overall the woodland seem dry.  Adjacent to the track, along its north western edge runs an old boundary embankment.  The majority of the woodland floor is covered by leaf litter, but occasional gaps in the canopy have allowed a community of {\it Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} to develop.

MANAGE:
There is no obvious management.  Regeneration seems poor.


FAUNA:
The woodland is likely to support common woodland and scrub birds although only Crows and Wood Pigeon where observed during the site visit.

VEG:
The majority of the common consists of mixed woodland of {\it Betula pubescens, Quercus robur, Corylus avellana} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.  The species are regenerating well and the species-poor ground flora consists of {\it Molina caerulea} and {\it Poa} spp..  Occasional open glades and steeper slopes of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occur, usually also associated with a thinning of the surrounding woodland to {\it Betula} scrub.  A {\it Fagus sylvatica} tree separates the common from the road.

MANAGE:
Occasional {\it Betula pubescens} trees have been felled and their are clear tracks running through the woodland with barrels dumped nearby.  There appears to be no identifiable form of management however, the woodland is regenerating well with numerous seedlings and saplings.


FAUNA:
The site is mainly best for birds of woodland and scrub, but the open heath area may attract others such as Meadow Pipit.

VEG:
The common is divided into five separate parts.  The largest of these has an open area of mainly heath over a gentle slope.  This has mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} (c. 50 per cent), {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it Molinia caerulea} dominants.  The the bottom of the slope, the ground is more water-logged and the vegetation grades into wet heath with a greater presence of tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea}, together with some {\it Sphagnum compactum}.  The remainder of the common and around its periphery, occurs {\it Betula pubescens, Quercus robur} scrub and more mature woodland.  On the higher, dry slopes this is joined by {\it Fagus sylvatica}, with a species-poor understory of leaf litter and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  In wetter areas the ground is covered in a carpet of {\it Sphagnum auriculatum} sp.

The northern strip of the site is covered in the same {\it Betula pubescens, Quercus robur} and in this case frequent {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland.  The understory consists of many tree seedlings, {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Galium aparine} to give almost 100 per cent ground cover.  A small paddock area has been fenced and grazed to mesotrophic grassland with herbs such as {\it Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus repens, Senecio jacobaea} with abundant {\it Poa trivialis.  Salix} spp. are locally abundant within wetter parts of the surrounding woodland.

In the second part of the common is found a few improved fields south of the first and is linked by paths.  It is covered by a species-rich mix of {\it Betula pubescens, B. pendula, Quercus robur, Salix} sp., {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}.  The ground is covered in dead wood and leaf litter, but there seems to be a good seedling regeneration.

The remaining three parts of the common are very small areas of similar woodland scrub.

MANAGE:
A large unofficial caravan camp has settled at (1) with many outfits and long-term residents.  There appears to have been little disturbance apart from bare earth within the site and a small level of rubbish dumping.

Apart from the small paddock area there appears to be little or no current management of the site.  The paddock may be more associated with a nearby farm than management by the Parish Council.


FAUNA:
The diversity of habitats in this area of broadleaved woodland encourages an abundant fauna.  This includes Butterflies such as the Small White, Speckled Wood and Gatekeeper.  A Dragonfly species, several Moths and crickets were also noted.

A number of woodland birds were present, including Wood Warbler.

VEG:
The bottom south-east corner of the site is unfenced and consists of low, mature {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} woodland.  {\it A. pseudoplatanus} dominates the canopy and is also the main regenerating species.  The understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus chamaemorus} and {\it Hedera helix}, is accompanied by a {\it Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum} ground flora.  The wood canopy opens out occasionally and these clearings contain {\it Rubus chamaemorus} and abundant {\it A. pseudoplatanus} seedlings.

A patch of more open scrub consists of tall, leggy {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Rubus} spp. scrub.  Alongside the paths which run through this, grow typical plants of open areas in broadleaved woodland, such as {\it Silene dioica} and {\it Geranium robertianum}.

The remainder of the site has been fenced and is again vegetated by the same broadleaved woodland mix.  Further north through the common, the ground scrub has been recently cleared and selected trees, felled.  The resulting wood has been left in stacks and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is colonising the open areas.  There is also a high degree of bare earth and broadleaved litter remaining.

Further north again, the wood has been thinned at one point during its management to leave scattered mature {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees over a tall mesotrophic grassland.  The more open glades here support {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Glechoma hederacea, Ranunculus ficaria, Galium aparine, Stellaria holostea, Cirsium palustre}, occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} and grasses such as {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Alopecurus pratensis} and abundant {\it Festuca gigantea}.  A few small {\it Salix} spp. trees are also dotted throughout this part.  This area has been terraced with approximately 1.5m high steps at varying distances apart.

MANAGE:
The enclosed area of the site has a history of wood harvesting management.  This has been controlled to ensure healthy standards remain and there is a high degree of regeneration, although, {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} appears to be increasing in dominance.  These management practices of selected felling and scrub clearance in certain areas within the woodland, have left a range of habitats from dense wood to open clearings and open woodland which, in turn, encourages a diverse insect and bird fauna.

The site is therefore, important within the local residential and farming area to maintain a woodland community now confined to a few scattered sites.


FAUNA:
Various dragonflies and damselflies along the stream.
Large grasshopper.

VEG:
The common used to be a marsh. The Parish map board indicates that 'before the marsh was filled barges used to reach Jubilee St.' One can only speculate on the quality of the former marsh habitat but the amenity grassland created and the straightened stream have some wildlife value.
  
The southern end of this common has a car park area that has been 'landscaped' with introduced non-native species ( including {\it Populus} sp.) and {\it Ulex} sp.

A new road passes across the common (opened 1990) raised above the car park level. An underpassing footpath takes one through to the amenity grassland area. On the western side of the amenity grassland trees and scrub are found such as {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with a shaded ground flora of {\it Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Calystegia sepium, Glechoma hederacea, Pteridium aquilinum}.
The Northern end has more substantial woodland with species such as {\it Alnus glutinosa, Salix} sp. {\it A. pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra} and a {\it Eucalyptus} sp. 

The stream edge at the northern end has {\it Montia sibirica, Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea, Geranium robertianum, Silene dioica} and some exotics. Further south  the banks support {\it Iris pseudocorus, Polygonum persicaria}. On the banks created by former roadworks are found planted trees such as {\it Viburnum opulus}.


FAUNA:
Due to lack of time and access permission only parts of this common were visited. Some common birds were observed such as Crow, Meadow pipits and Magpies. 

The National Trust Biological survey of the small part of the common owned by the Trust has two records of soldier beetles {\it Cantharis figurata} and {\it Cantharis paludosa} - the only Devon records for these species.

VEG:
Due to lack of time, and the fact that much of the common is well surveyed by the NVC  survey and the National Trust, only small areas were visited. Much of the description below is based on the National Trust Biological Survey.

The separate small section on the west of Crownhill Down, south of the main section of CL 190 has acid grassland which is heavily grazed and used for recreation. Species present include {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Agrostis} sp. {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Poa annua} with some substantial areas of {\it Ulex} sp. and occasional remnant heath species. North of the leet or drain to the  mica pools lies disturbed land arising from the china clay works.
The Shaugh Moor area is now almost entirely industrial spoil with areas of regenerating acid grassland and {\it Ulex} sp..

The upper slopes and plateaux above Shavercombe, Langcombe and Great Gnat's Heads have healthy heather with chacteristic hummock and hollow structure. Species found here include {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Eriophorum vaginatum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Vaccinium myrtillus}. It is grazed more heavily to the north. Wetter areas have species that include {\it Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium, S. tenellum, S. cuspidatum, Juncus squarrosus, Polygala serpyllifolia, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera rotundifolia} - probably NVC M17 blanket mire.

Wet heath areas (Phase 1 - D2) are found on Lee Moor and below Great and Little Gnats' Head, and have {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} as dominants with species such as {\it E. tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Agrostis setacea, Trichophorum cespitosum, Galium saxatile, Carex binervis}.  

Trowesworthy Warren and much of the southern banks of the River Plym have extensive coverage of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The Trowlesworthy Tors have interesting fern species such as {\it Hymenophyllum tunbridgense} and species such as {\it Polypodium vulgare, Dryopteris dilitata, Deschampsia flexuosa, Sedum anglicum, V. myrtillus, Calluna vulgaris} are found. Of most interest perhaps are the lichens of Great Trowesworthy Tor. Giavarini (1990) found 76 species here and it is among the top 10 of the richest tors for lichen species. These include {\it Parmelia laevigata, Bryoria bicolor, Rhizocarpon subgeminatum, Cladonia} spp. {\it Trapeliopsis} spp. and {\it Leproloma membranaceum, Rhizocarpon geographicum, Umbilicaria polyphylla, Platismatia glauca}.

Mires exist alogside the R. Plym with carpets of {\it Sphagnum} sp. {\it Polytrichum commune, Molinia caerulea, Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Carex rostrata}. The river itself supports a range of bryophytes with species such as {\it Scapania} and {\it Fontanalis ?antipyretica}. {\it Oreopteris limbosperma} is found along the streamsides.

The valley mire below Trowlesworthy Warren is extensive and of great interest especially where base-rich on the northern side. Species present include {\it Carex viridula} ssp.{\it oedocarpa, C. echinata, C. nigra, C. panicea, J. bulbosus, D. rotundifolia, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Scutellaria minor, Sphagnum palustre, S. tenellum, S. capillifolium, S. recurvum, Eleocharis palustris, Hypericum elodes}. The base-rich area supports {\it Succisa pratensis, Anagallis tenella, Drosera intermedia, Pinguicula lusitanica, Rhyncospora alba}. NVC communities M6a and M29.

MANAGE:
The archaeological and conservation interest of this common is unified in the need for the reduction of grazing and cessation of winter-feeding.

The National Trust survey also prioritizes a monitoring programme for heather extent and condition as well as bracken cover. 

The industrial areas of this common may make suitable experimental areas for ecological restoration. A suitable plan for the use and restoration potential of all these disturbed areas would be essential.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Collared Dove, Wood Pigeon, Blackbird, Blue Tit.

VEG:
Large standards of {\it Fagus sylvatica} line the minor road through the site (A31).  The poor semi-improved/improved neutral grassland (NVC MG6) is closely cropped, of little interest, and used as a local football pitch/recreation area.  The main species in this grassland are {\it Agrostis capillaris, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens} and {\it Poa annua}.  There is also a sizeable area of {\it Betula-Quercus-Pteridium aquilinum-Rubus fruticosus} woodland and scrub.

The main habitat interest lies in the semi-natural secondary woodland (A111) and scrub (A21) mosaics.  The woodland is quite young and is primarily of {\it Quercus, Betula}, with the following species common: {\it Quercus robur/petraea}, young {\it Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum.  Fagus sylvatica} are occasional, {\it Molinia caerulea} is rare, as are {\it Viburnum opulus} and {\it Ulex europaeus.  Polytrichum formosum} is a locally prominent moss.  There is good epiphytic growth of lichens and bryophytes, including species of {\it Usnea, Parmelia} and {\it Hypnum}, on the older {\it Quercus} sp., but none are very old (max. dbh 40cm.).  

Dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} mingled with {\it Rubus} sp. (C11 and A22) borders the woodland areas.  An area mapped as C11 and A22 and B5 is mainly {\it P. aquilinum}.  The tiny areas of marshy grassland are of NVC type M23a and M23b.  There is also a tiny area of M25b with {\it Molinia caerulea} tussocks dominant.  {\it Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus} and a number of poor fen forbs are also present in the B5 areas.  (There was a fine display of {\it Amanita} fungi along the woodland path at the time of the survey and a variety of other fungi which were not identified).

MANAGE:
Appears unmanaged, except for the mown recreational grassland area.


FAUNA:
Badger (dung pit), Deer, Snipe, Stonechat, Linnet, Whitethroat, Meadow Pipit, Reed Bunting, Grasshopper Warbler, Jack Snipe, Harvest Mouse, - full bird list, reptile, amphibian and invertebrate lists in Devon Wildlife Trust files.  Two beetle species of restricted distribution in Devon = Glow Worm {\it  (Lampyris noctiluca)} and Tortoise Beetle {\it  (Cassida murraea)}.  Butterfly records to 1988 include: Gatekeeper, Large White, Meadow Brown, Orange Tip, Painted Lady, Peacock, Wall, Green-veined White, Red Admiral, Ringlet, Small White, Small Tortoiseshell, Speckled Wood and Small Skipper.

VEG:
Botanical survey was last carried out in 1985, and {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} (an uncommon species in Devon) was mapped in 1987.  Since that time there appear to have been certain shifts in the species composition, particularly of the marshy grassland (B5).

In 1985, the bulk of the site was mapped as "{\it Molinia} marshy grassland" (B5), with areas of {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}, {\it Rubus fruticosus-Ulex}  scrub (A2), {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (C11) and {\it Quercus-Salix} wood scrub (A111/A21).  The present survey, 10 years on, found very little of the B5 to now have much {\it Molinia caerulea.  Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Holcus lanatus} are now the main grass species and {\it Molinia caerulea} occurs at low frequency (some tussocks are present in the central part of the site).  The {\it Molinia caerulea} now appears to have given way to {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}, which is very abundant and tussocky over much of the site.  {\it Holcus lanatus} is very abundant/dominant in other areas.  Other species locally dominant or at high frequencies in the B5 include: {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Juncus effusus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Mentha aquatica, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus repens, Angelica sylvestris, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Achillea ptarmica}.  Other species present at lower frequencies include: {\it Lychnis flos-cuculi, Iris pseudacorus, Epilobium palustre, Solanum dulcamara, Hypericum} spp., {\it Apium nodiflorum, Stellaria alsine} and {\it Wahlenbergia hederacea}.  The main NVC communities present in the B5 are : forb-rich good quality M23b; intermediate MG9/M23b; and M27 where the {\it Filipendula ulmaria} is dominant.  The {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} occurs in the M23b stands, some of which are overgrown with {\it Rubus fruticosus} and dense {\it Junci}, but the {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} is surviving.  {\it Rubus fruticosus} is the main scrub species in both the scattered and dense scrub, and are common throughout the site.  {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Salix} spp. also occur.

The areas of "A111 and A21" are dominated by {\it Quercus} and {\it Salix} sp. with much {\it Rubus fruticosus}.  Areas of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (C11) around the eastern margins are mingled with {\it Rubus fruticosus, Ulex} sp. and {\it Quercus} sp. saplings in much of the stand and are different to walk through, (C11 and A22 on map).

MANAGE:
Tod Moor is leased annually by the Devon Wildlife Trust.  The most recent management plan covers the period 1987-1992.  Since 1984, the Trust has carried out more management on the site - mainly control of {\it Rubus fruticosus, Salix, Ulex} scrub.  Areas of scrub clearance are being recolonised by {\it Holcus lanatus} at the present time.  Much of the vegetation is tall and dense.  Previously mapped paths are now largely overgrown, although there are animal paths through it.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus}  have grown over the paths.

No commoners currently graze the common and the lack of grazing has led to considerable scrub encroachment of the open marshy areas.  The management plan is to retain a couple of islands of scrub for breeding birds, to enquire if commoners will graze the Moor and the viability of cattle grids and fencing.  If grazing is not feasible, controlled winter burning or mowing may be considered.  A strip of {\it Rubus fruticosus} is being allowed to grow between the road and reserve, to discourage access.  The Highway Authority mow the verges in agreement with the Devon Wildlife Trust, in late August.

In the past, travellers have camped on the site, gypsies have tethered ponies and considerable quantities of dumped household and garden refuse are regularly removed from the reserve.  On-going records of mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian and butterflies are kept.  Invertebrates were last surveyed by NCC in 1979.


FAUNA:
No fauna were observed on the brief site visit.

VEG:
VEGETATION: The remaining vegetation is of little interest, being largely species poor {\it Lolium perenne - Trifolium repens} grassland with some amenity tree planting. There are some large {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Alnus glutinosa} trees at the north end of the east bank. Along the river there are stands of {\it Acorus calamus, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Impatiens glandulifera}.

MANAGE:
MANAGEMENT: The grassland is mown twice a year.


FAUNA:
The scrub and meadow vegetation is good for invertebrates and butterflies.  Common woodland birds are present such as Chaffinch.

VEG:
For the purposes of the survey the sections of the common have been labelled a to e.

Section b: A large area of unenclosed, semi-improved mesotrophic meadow, mown for hay.  Tall grasses such as {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Lolium perenne} are joined by {\it Holcus lanatus, Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Trifolium pratense} and {\it Poa} spp.  The meadow is bordered away from the road by an overgrown {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedge and to the roadside is a small patch of dense {\it Crataegus monogyna, Salix} spp., {\it Viburnum lantana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Corylus avellana}.

Section a: This contains the same mesotrophic meadow as section b, but is affected by scrub encroachment from its western margin.  This consists of the same species as previously listed, but also with {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, and a more developed understorey of {\it Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus, Gladiolus illyricus} and {\it Geranium robertium}, with much broadleaved litter.

Section d: Semi-improved mesotrophic meadow as before, with the same scrub species along its margins and encroaching into the meadow.  The scrub is more developed with older tree species and also including tall {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees.

Section c: This area is now a grass car park.  The improved and trampled acid grassland (NVC U4b) is eroded to bare earth in places.  In the middle, a dense stand of very old {\it Crataegus monogyna} has been left.  Ground flora is poor, chiefly {\it Rubus fruticosus}, but many creepers such as {\it Solanum dulcamara, Hedera helix} and some saprophytes are present. A tarmac access road has been built at (1) on the map.

Section e: A stand of scrub and broadleaved woodland of the species mix as previously described in sections (d) and (a).

MANAGE:
Current management of the common is seasonal mowing for hay.  Paths have been created and maintained across the meadows.  The result is a well-maintained common, frequently used.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Stonechat, Carrion Crow, Small Heath and Small White butterflies, Tortoiseshell butterfly, various Bee species, Meadow Brown butterfly, unidentified Fritillary butterfly.

VEG:
NVC communities include:  H4, U3, U20, M25b, M6a, M6c/M23b.  Much of the common is taken up by extensive stands of dense, tall {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (C11).  Locally, {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Ilex aquifolium} and scattered small trees of {\it Betula} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} occur within the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (C11 and A22), the last two species being most frequent.

A sizeable area of dry dwarf shrub heath (D11) falls into the NVC community H4, and is mainly dominated by a dense cover of {\it Ulex gallii}, accompanied by abundant {\it Calluna vulgaris}, occasional to frequent {\it Erica cinerea} and frequent {\it Agrostis curtisii} and {\it A. capillaris}.  It is similar to the D11 in adjacent CL110, with which the stand is contiguous.

Acid grassland (B11) occurs along paths, and as small patches amongst the heath (forming D5), or as clearings in the Pteridium aquilinum.  Most is referrable to the NVC community U3, with frequent {\it Agrostis curtisii, A. capillaris, Potentilla erecta, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and occasional {\it Aira praecox} and {\it Nardus stricta}.  However, small areas of U4a also occur, characterised by the absence of {\it Agrostis curtisii}, and the presence of frequent {\it Festuca ovina} and/or {\it Galium saxatile}, in addition to the above mentioned U3 species.

In wetter parts of the site near streams, marshy grassland (B5) consists mostly of the NVC community M25a, with small tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea}.  Other species include: {\it Erica tetralix, Polytrichum commune, Juncus effusus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Juncus bufonius} (in poached areas) and {\it Scutellaria galericulata}.

Flushes (E3) forming a small valley mire complex with the B5, contain the following species:  {\it Sphagna, Carex demissa, Juncus bulbosus, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus flammula, Narthecium ossifragum, Viola palustris, Eriophorum angustifolium, Erica tetralix} and {\it S. galericulata}.  They are mainly NVC M6a and M6c.  Small streams (G2) are less than 1m wide and oligotrophic.

MANAGE:
Encroachment of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} appears to be occurring - it is growing over H4 heath species in some places, whereas in others there are only grasses beneath it and it may be longer established.

Although ericoid sub-shrubs occur, Ulex gallii hummocks dominate the heathland areas forming a dense hummocky structure to about 0.5m in height.  The ericoids have to compete with this and so tend to be rather sparse overall and though mostly in the 'mature' phase, are rather 'straggly' plants ( not 'topiary' or 'drumstick' however).

Sheep and cattle graze the common.  Quite severe poaching of some of the B5 near streams.  Stocking rate does not appear high, but grazing probably concentrated mostly on B11 and B5 stands.


FAUNA:
No fauna were observed on the site visit.

VEG:
VEGETATION: (Larger part) Two types of woodland occur. That at (1) is dense {\it Betula - Quercus} woodland with a ground flora of {\it Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus, Aegopodium podagraria} and many young {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} saplings. There is some dumping of garden waste here and a stand of {\it Fallopia japonica}. Other areas (2) are of scattered {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Fagus sylvatica, Betula} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} over a species-poor sward of {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. The centre of the common is open and has a more interesting flora. Much is improved grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis stolonifera} with abundant {\it Trifolium repens, T. pratensis, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}; but there are patches of heath surviving, with frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris} (reaching 25 per cent cover in places), {\it Molinia caerulea, Agrostis curtisii, Ulex gallii, Potentilla erecta, Hypochoeris radicata, Hieracium c.f. umbellatum, Polygala serpyllifolia} and {\it Carex} spp., occasional {\it Danthonia decumbens, Succisa pratensis} and {\it Erica cinerea} and rare {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Serratula tinctoria}; a surprising array of species to find on such a small site.
(Smaller part) Half of this has recently had a house and garden made on it. The remaining half has improved {\it Lolium perenne} grassland, three large {\it Salix alba} trees and a stream with {\it Apium nodiflorum}.

MANAGE:
MANAGEMENT: The grassland and heath on the larger area is kept short, probably by mowing, though some areas have been trampled by horses. This is keeping the area free from scrub; but if grass cuttings are not removed it is likely to result in enrichment and loss of the remaining heath species. Apart from the nature conservation interest, these are a very attractive element of the site and efforts should be made to retain them. A sign has been erected prohibiting dumping within the woodland.


FAUNA:
Across the Pebble Bed Heaths SSSI, over 70 breeding birds species have been recorded, notable Nightjar, Hobby and Dartford Warbler.  The Heaths are soon to be made a Specially Protected Area for Nightjar.  Curlew have also been present.  Among the 21 breeding dragonfly species are the Small Red Damselfly, Southern {\it Coenagrion} and the Downy Emerald.  The Bog Bush Cricket {\it Metrioptera brachyptera} has also been recorded.

Breeding Lepidoptera include the High Brown, Grayling and Silver-studded Blue.  Adder, Grass Snake, Common Lizard and Slow Worm are also present.

VEG:
The site is part of the largest block of lowland heath in Devon and as such, is a nationally important representative of the inland Atlantic-climate, lowland heathlands of Britain and north-west Europe.  A significant feature of the site is the diversity of heatland-associated communities, related to its large area and the range of substrate and topography.

The higher, drier area, covering a large expanse in the eastern half of the site is vegetated by heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Ulex gallii, Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC H4).  These open spaces are being encroached upon by a dense scrub of {\it Betula pubescens, Salix} spp., {\it Rubus fruticosus, Ulex europaeus} and occasional {\it Pinus sylvestris} and by areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  Scattered scrub and {\it Pinus sylvestris} trees can be found in varying degrees, across the common.

Shallow valleys give rise to distinct changes of vegetation, as dry heath changes to wet heath, with acid flushes leading to valley mire and {\it Salix} scrub, on the valley floors.  In the wet heath {\it Erica cinerea} is replaced by {\it E. tetralix}, and {\it Molinia caerulea} increases in abundance (NVC M16). Other characteristic species are {\it Polygala serpyllifolia, Potentilla erecta, Narthecium ossifragum, Pedicularis sylvatica, Hypericum pulchrum, Carex nigra} and patchy {\it Sphagnum compactum}.  Acid flushes of {\it Juncus acutiflorus} and {\it Carex echinata} over {\it Sphagnum palustre} and {\it S. auriculatum} spp. lead into the valley floors (NVC M6dii).  Small areas of valley mire can be found here, with abundant {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex echinata, Trichophorum cespitosum, Drosera rotundifolia, Dactylorhiza maculata} and also {\it Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Cirsium dissectum, Narthecium ossifragum, Pinguicula lusitiana, Anagalis tenella, Potentilla erecta} with occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris.  Sphagnum auriculatum} spp. and {\it S. papillosum} form a luxuriant carpet (NVC M21).  {\it Dactylorhiza} spp., {\it Schoenus nigricans} and {\it Carex panicea} can be found at the edge of the mire.  

Mineral-rich flushes support {\it Carex hostiana, C. panicea, Schoenus nigricans, Succisa pretensis}, together with the brown mosses, {\it Scorpidium scorpioides, Campylium stellatum} and {\it Drepanocladus revolvens}.

Such a vegetation combination can be found at location (1) on the habitat map, where steep slopes of dry heath, grading into wet heath lower down, border the valley floor of mire, flush and {\it Salix} scrub.  This valley then leads down to a stream bordered by {\it Betula} and {\it Salix} spp..  A pond has been created here containing {\it Potemogeton polygonifolius} and in boggy margins, {\it Iris pseudacorus, Typha latifolia, Myriophyllum verticillatum, Ranunculus} and {\it Juncus} spp..  Overall, the heather covers approximately 80 per cent of the site.

MANAGE:
The common is under Tier One of the Countryside Stewardship Scheme prescribing management practices such as the present control of {\it Ulex europaeus, Pinus sylvestris, Betula} sp. and other invasive trees and shrubs.  Also as part of the scheme, fire breaks have been maintained, areas of heath rotationally burnt and mown, {\it Ulex europaeus} coppiced and bracken removed to encourage heather.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} removal is carried out in a variety of ways, including rolling and cutting.  Cattle have been sometime grazed on the site.  The number of grazing stock is controlled to increase habitat diversity.  {\it Salix} and {\it Betula} scrub have been cleared along streamsides to link heathland areas.  The heather is generally in good condition, although, too frequent use by local riding stables and mountain biking may potentially erode steeper slopes.  Two ponds have been created to encourage breeding dragonflies.  The site is used by MoD for military training and as a grenade range.


FAUNA:
A low level of fauna was recorded on the site visit due to poor weather conditions.  A large flock of Crows was noted in the woodland.  The high degree of scrub and wood throughout the site would provide good habitats for birds such as Willow Warbler, Whitethroat and Tree Pipit.  The accumulated dead wood and litter would attract invertebrates.

Observed on site visit:
Red deer.

VEG:
The northern part of the site is covered by a broadleaved wood dominated by {\it Betula} spp., with {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and some mature {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees scattered throughout.  The understorey consists of {\it Ilex aquifolium, F. sylvatica} saplings, with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus chamaemorus} in more open places.

The ground is mainly covered by dead wood and leaf litter.  Further south, {\it Pinus sylvestris} is also present and the wood gradually thins to a few scattered {\it P. sylvestris} and {\it Betula pubescens} trees.  Ground flora grades from species-poor to remnant heath of {\it Erica cinerea, Vaccinium myrtillus, Molinia caerulea, Hedera helix, Rubus chamaemorus} scrub and approximately 60 per  cover of shrub litter.  Damper sections of woodland occur towards the western border of the site where {\it Betula pubescens} and scattered {\it Pinus sylvestris} are joined by a {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} ground flora.  The high level of tree species seedlings here and throughout the wood indicate a good degree of regeneration.  However, {\it F. sylvatica} appears to be the dominant regenerating species in the drier areas of the wood.  Occasional introduced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} can be found adjacent to the tarmac lane.

Further south, the vegetation opens out to a large area of dry dwarf shrub heath which consists of a species-mix characteristic of southern lowland {\it Calluna vulgaris-Ulex gallii} heath (NVC H4).  {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is present amongst the heath, as are scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes.  This area is also being encroached upon by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} from its periphery.

MANAGE:
At present, the site offers a divese range of habitats from mature woodland, to scrub and dry heath.  This is beneficial to encouraging a wide variety of fauna and flora to the common, especially bird-life.  The surrounding land use consists mainly of agriculture and plantation, and so open areas such as dry heath provide important feeding areas for fauna.

At present, there appears to be some level of scrub clearance on the open heath.  The heather is reaching a mature stage and so does not appear to be grazed regularly.


FAUNA:
The site supports a rich and varied fauna.  Breeding Stonechat and the nationally rare Nightjar have been recorded as well as Meadow Pipit, Willow Warbler, Snipe and Buzzard.  In addition to the extensive bird list, a large number of butterflies are present including Brimstone, Holly Blue, Grayling, Small Heath, Large Skipper, Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary and the nationally rare Silver-studded Blue.  Common Darter and Golden-ringed Dragonflies have also been recorded, as has a large colony of the Fox Moth.  Roe Deer and sometimes Sika Deer are important grazers.  This site is often a stop for passage migrants.  Adders are also present.

VEG:
The the east of the road, the ground is level and dominated by open heathland communities.  The vegetation comprises a mix of {\it Calluna vulgaris} (c. 60 per cent cover), {\it Erica tetralix, E. cinerea} (c. 10 per cent), {\it Molinia caerulea} and occasional {\it Ulex gallii}.  The proportion of {\it M. caerulea} varies and becomes more dominant and tussocky in the northern half of this section.  {\it Trichophorum cespitosus} and {\it Polygala serpyllifolia} are occasional to frequent.

The heathland is of heterogenous age with mature areas supporting a good ground cover of {\it Cladonia portentosa} and frequent {\it Sphagnum compactum}.  The varied vegetation structure and {\it Molinia caerulea} cover reflects a pattern of random burning.  An area to the south has also recently been cut.  Ther is little scrub cover over the site, but {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex europaeus, Betula} scrub  are found around the periphery.  The car park is also partially surrounded by dense {\it Salix} scrub.  Scattered {\it Pinus sylvestris} and alien {\it Rhododendron ponticum} are invading in the north east corner of the heath.  A shallow scrape/pond has been created adjacent to a southerly track.

To the west of the road, the land slopes gently into a steepe, west-facing, larger slope.  The whole area is {\it P. aquilinum} dominated, but on the gentler slope adjacent to the road, it is more scattered over a low matt of {\it Calluna vulgaris} (approximately 30 per cent cover), {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} (approximately 15 per cent cover), {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it Molinia caerulea} dry heath vegetation.  {\it Rubus fruticosus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Lonicera peryclymenum} are also present across the site in varying proportions.  The area is scattered with local concentrations of {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus, Betula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia.  Malus sylvestris} and {\it Frangula alnus} are found at (1).  There is a small woodland area in the south west of the site in which mature {\it Quercus robur} is also present.

MANAGE:
Declared a Local Nature Reserve in 1990 (the first one in Devon), this site of predominantly heathland habitat, is managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust to maintain current habitat and species diversity.  Irregular shapes in the dry heath are burnt or cut on rotation and mown litter removed.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with heath vegetation still present underneath has been cleared on the west side of the road, by cutting in order to encourage heathland restoration.  {\it Ulex europaeus} is burnt and coppiced to halt any decline.  Invasive scrub and alien species are removed.  A small shallow pool has been created and firebreaks included within the heath.  {\it Calluna vulgaris} across the site appears in good condition.

The common is therefore, ideally managed to ensure its locally important conservation and amenity value are maintained.


FAUNA:
Habitats likely to be similar to CL 82 (adjacent). See also Pebble Bed Heaths SSSI citation. Managed for Dartford Warbler, Nightjar, Hobby.

VEG:
See E Devon Pebblebed Heath SSSI citation. From a brief re-survey following loss of earlier surveyor's field notes:

The car park near Four Firs is surrounded by scrub of {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus} and some {\it Pinus sylvestris}. South of this area lie substantial areas of dry heathland with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Cuscuta epithymum, Pedicularis sylvatica, Erica cinerea, Ulex europaeus, Molinia caerulea} and some {\it Pteridium aquilinum} patches. Further south a plantation of {\it Pinus sylvestris} crosses the site with further dry heathland prior to the quarried area with lagoons and spoil heaps at the southern end of the common. 

South west of Four Firs lies a large area of wet heathland (D2) with {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea}. There is some invasive
{\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Frangula alnus, Salix} sp. {\it Betula pendula} scrub. The roadside verges support {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Eupatoria cannabinum, Urtica dioica, Achillea millefolium, Teucrium scorodonia}. 

West of the B3180 near an abrupt bend lies a marsh of marshy grasland and mire with vigourous {\it Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Ulex europaeus, Narthecium ossifragum, Juncus} spp. and {\it Sphagnum} spp. that supports {\it Drosera rotundifolia}. The wettest areas include {\it Typha latifolia, Equisetum} sp. {\it Betula} scrub is invasive here. 

The south-western corner of the common has broad-leaved woodland of {\it Salix} sp. {\it Quercus robur, Betula} sp. and in some areas {\it Fagus sylvatica, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana}. The western slopes of Black Hill have a {\it Pinus} plantation over heathland with substantial {\it Agostis curtisii}. 

In the northern half of the site there are large tracts of dry and wet heath with patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, and areas of {\it Pinus sylvestris} scrub. A tumulus by the road has {\it Pinus sylvestris} trees with {\it Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium} The western slopes are acid grassland with recently controlled {\it Ulex} scrub and {\it Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. 

NW of the trig. point near the northern end of the site lies a large area of marshy grassland which is intermixed with wet heath and scrub. Roadside verges here support {\it Eupatoria cannabinum, Cirsium} spp. {\it Rubus fruticosus, Frangula alnus, Betula pendula, Galium aparine, Stachys officinalis, Rhinanthus minor, Succisa pratensis}.

MANAGE:
Scrub control, heather management carried out by Clinton estates. Management for species such as Nightjar, Dartford Warbler, Hobby in practice.


FAUNA:
Observed on Mutters' Moor: Adder, Green Woodpecker, (Roe?) Deer. Observed on Harpford Common: Green Woodpecker, Violet Ground Beetle.

VEG:
1. Mutters' Moor Much of the north of the site has succeeded to open woodland, some of it possibly planted, but substantial areas of heath remain. To the southeast this is dry, with {\it Calluna vulgaris} dominant, along with {\it Agrostis curtisii, Ulex gallii, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Erica cinerea}. Elsewhere {\it M. caerulea} is dominant and the heath is wetter, with {\it Polygala serpyllifolia} frequent. {\it Ulex europaeus} and young {\it Pinus sylvestris} are scattered throughout the heath and some areas (e.g. at 105880) are rapidly succeeding to woodland. The centre of the common has tall pine/birch woodland with remnant heath species. {\it Amanita muscaria} is abundant here. In several places, particularly in the north of the site, {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is dominant under an open, scrubby woodland of {\it Pinus sylvestris, Betula pendula, Sorbus aucuparia, Corylus avellana, Larix} sp., {\it Castanea sativa} and other tree species. Many tracks cross the common and some of these are wide and used for forestry activities.

2. Harpford Common. The flat summit of the hill has tall {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath, much of it in excellent condition. {\it Ulex gallii, Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Erica cinerea} are abundant. {\it Molinia caerulea} is occasional, becoming frequent on wetter ground at the top. Some {\it Ulex gallii} bushes are swathed in {\it Cuscuta epithymum}. Around the edges of this area there is some scrub invasion and {\it Ulex europaeus} is locally dominant. Lower down the slope {\it Pteridium aquilinum} has invaded, though {\it Calluna vulgaris} remains at low cover. {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is frequent here and {\it Erica tetralix, Hieracium pilosella} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia} were recorded. Trees become increasingly dominant and in the eastern corner the canopy closes. {\it Fagus sylvatica} is the main species, though {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix caprea} become dominant on the lower, wetter slopes. Other species include {\it Pinus sylvestris, Quercus} sp., {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Corylus avellana}. The ground layer is of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, grading to {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and then {\it Sphagnum} spp. as the ground becomes wetter and more shaded.

MANAGE:
1. Mutters' Moor The site is grazed only by rabbits and is consequently threatened by scrub and {\it P. aquilinum} invasion. Some areas around 107879 have been cleared of scrub and young trees and it is to be hoped that this will continue. Other areas have been burned. 

2. Harpford Common No management activities noted. Large areas of heath remain free of scrub but intervention  is necessary to maintain these.

Heathland on both areas would benefit from grazing.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during the survey: Buzzard, Gulls, Crows.

VEG:
No access was obtained and the common surveyed from the roads.

The area west of the B3174 is semi-improved grassland with extensive {\it Lolium perenne}. A small section of woodland with {\it Quercus robur, Corylus avellana}.

The main section between the B road and the minor road is, at the time of survey divided between ploughed land and semi-improved grassland. The western boundary has planted trees {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus} sp. {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Achillea millefolium, Arrenatherum elatius, Eupatorium cannibinum, Heracleum sphondylium, Achillea ptarmica, Ulex} sp., {\it Galium mullago, Salix, Ilex aquifolium}.
The planted trees extend along the southern boundary. New drainage is installed here. By the B road near the southern boundary lies some disturbed land with {\it Ulex} sp. {\it Rubus fruticosus, Cirsium} sp. {\it Lotus corniculatus, Holcus lanatus} and some currently bare ground.
The section north of the minor road is also semi-improved grassland. The hedge, ditch and verge alongside the minor road supports {\it Mentha aquatica, Achillea millefolium, Hypericum perforatum, Carex nigra, Achillea ptarmica, Filipendula ulmaria, Heracleum sphondylium, Teucrium scorodonia, Arrenatherum elatius, Pulicaria dysenterica}. 

Near the northern boundary a rough track enters the field to some farm buildings.

MANAGE:
The planted trees seem to be well-established and will enhance wildlife interest (especially for birds).


FAUNA:
The site supports a high diversity of insects and birdlife.  The most notable being the rare High Brown Fritillary, found in areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, as well as, a high invertebrate presence.  Stonechat, Whinchat and Meadow Pipit are abundant.

VEG:
The hill plateau is the site of an old castle fort.  Within the fort embankments is a level area of acid grassland and scattered scrub with evidence that the scrub is dying back.  A few {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} bushes remain, but these are small and spaced far apart.  A locally abundant presence of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} suggests the previous presence of woodland over the area.  Acid species found in this location include {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca ovina, Agrostis} spp., {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile} as well as, {\it Viola riviniana, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Luzula multiflora}.  Therefore, a mix of species is present, also including occasional {\it Stellaria graminea} and some {\it Molinia caerulea}, which indicates the potentially marshy nature of the habitat.

On the embankments, abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} bushes are found together with approximately 1 per cent cover of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Ulex gallii, Rubus fruticosus, Festuca rubra} and pre-described species of acid grassland.  This species mix is potentially characteristic of lowland dry heath.  {\it Cladonia impexa} and {\it Dicranum scoparium} have developed around outcrops of bare rock.  {\it Sedum} spp. are also frequent.

Species-poor, continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub cover the steeper slopes around the fort.  The areas of {\it P. aquilinum} contain {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Stellaria graminea} amongst up to 90 per cent {\it P. aquilinum} litter.

To the northern border of the site, adjacent to some mixed woodland, {\it Quercus robur} seedlings are encroaching through the {\it P. aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
The site has recently undergone management presciptions to encourage re-establishment of acid heath/grass vegetation, through the clearance of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  Areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} were cleared, the site stock-fenced, and cattle grazing re-introduced.  This appears to have succeeded in preventing the re-generation of cleared scrub, allowing the present herb and grass mix to establish within the fort.  The few remaining bushes are ideal for providing perches for the variety of heathland birds and as cover for invertebrates.  The presence of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} spp. trees at the common's periphery also encourage the present fauna.


FAUNA:
No fauna were observed on the site visit, but the open woodland provides habitats for a range of bird and invertebrate species.

VEG:
The site was evidently heathland at one time, but has succeeded to woodland. {\it Betula pendula} is dominant, along with {\it Pinus sylvestris, Fagus sylvatica, Quercus} sp., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, and in some areas planted non-native species. The woodland is quite open, and has a dense ground layer of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Teucrium scorodonia, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Heathland species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris, Ulex gallii, Erica tetralix} and {\it E. cinerea} survive in some areas but are generally tall and straggly. At (1) there is a more open area with more healthy heath vegetation, but unfortunately this coincides with the worst of the recent tree planting, with {\it Acer platanoides, Chamaecyparis lawsonii, Picea sitchensis, Quercus} sp. {\it Ilex} sp., {\it Quercus cerris}, a bamboo, and other unrecognized species.

MANAGE:
There are mounds and hollows over some of the site indicating mineral extraction in the past. The common is not grazed; the only active management appears to be the planting of non-native tree species, presumably for amenity purposes. This is wholly inappropriate on this site; efforts would be much better directed towards keeping some areas open so that heathland species can survive. Non-native trees should be removed before they change the attractive character of the natural vegetation.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Crow, Magpie, Buzzard, Wren.
Reptile seen:  Adder.

VEG:
The periphery of this common has {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some scrub, usually, {\it Betula} sp. Small areas of heath surrounding the main mire include {\it Erica cinerea, Calluna vulgaris, Ulex} sp.{\it Salix repens, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea} with some invasive {\it Betula} sp.
The main area of this common is an acid flush of considerable area, rich in such species as {\it Juncus acutiflorus, Narthecium ossifragum, Cirsium} sp. {\it Molinia caerulea, Erica cinerea, Erica tetralix, Potentilla erecta, Pedicularis sylvatica, Anagallis tenella, Drosera rotundifolia, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Carex echinata, Eriophorum vaginatum, Sphagnum auriculatum, Sphagnum cuspidatum, Hypericum elodes, Holcus lanatus}. Several dead orchid specimens found.

MANAGE:
The yellow-marked posts indicate that interest is being taken in this common  maybe at Local Authority level. Any invasion of the wetter areas by scrub species or {\it Pteridium aquilinum} could be monitored and kept in check.


VEG:
Mainly acid grassland of NVC types U4a and U3/U5, with some stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  The vegetation is grass-dominated and of little botanical interest.

MANAGE:
Hard grazed grassland with bracken encroachment.


FAUNA:
Lists have been made of birds, mammals, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Isopoda and Hymenoptera on the common, and it is on the Invertebrate Site Register. The site provides roosting and feeding grounds for flocks of overwintering birds including Golden Plover, Curlew, Wigeon, and Brent Goose, and breeding sites for birds such as Shelduck, Wheatear, Stonechat, Whitethroat, Grasshopper Warbler and Sedge Warbler. The site is also important for invertebrates, particularly species requiring sand dunes and salt pastures. The nationally rare woodlouse {\it  Armadillium album}, the nationally scarce Portland Moth {\it Ochropleura praecox}, the squashbug {\it Arenocoris falleni}, and butterflies including Dingy Skipper, Grizzled Skipper, Dark Green Fritillary and Holly Blue have been recorded.

VEG:
The attached map has largely been redrawn from an NVC map produced by PS Gateley and PW Sturgess as part of the sand dune survey. Landfill and movement of the coastline have substantially changed the northeast of the site since the OS map was produced, and boundaries in this area should be taken as very approximate.

The site has substantial areas of open dune, dune grassland, dune slack and saltmarsh. Much of the grassland and saltmarsh has been heavily affected by grazing. 

The shingle bank on the seaward edge of the common has little vegetation apart from some small areas of {\it Glaucium flavum} and {\it Rumex crispus}. Behind this there is a strip of yellow dune, which is largely old and well established, with {\it Ammophila arenaria} only locally dominant. This area is fenced off to prevent grazing and trampling, though the fence is often breached on the western side by high tides. Most areas have a dense sward with {\it A. arenaria, Festuca rubra, Galium verum and Thymus praecox}. The nationally scarce species {\it Vulpia membranacea, Trifolium ornithopodoides and Limonium binervosum} and the nationally rare {\it Matthiola sinuata} occur here. There seems to be little foredune, as the seaward edge is being eroded or covered with encroaching pebbles. Inland, outside the fence, a large area is managed as a golf course. The sward here is very tightly grazed and less diverse, tending towards a semi-improved {\it Lolium perenne - Cynosurus cristatus} community, particularly on the greens. On lower ground dune slack vegetation has developed, typified by Juncus acutus, which has a nationally restricted distribution; probably the largest stand in Britain occurs on the common. {\it Spiranthes spiralis, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Oenanthe lachenalii} and the nationally rare (Schedule 8, Wildlife and Countryside Act) {\it Teucrium scordium} occur here. In places growth of {\it Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} makes the stands impenetrable. Where there is a strong maritime influence {\it Juncus maritimus, Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani} and the nationally scarce {\it Ranunculus baudotii} occur. Much of the south and west of the site has semi-improved grassland which has developed on alluvial clay and former saltmarsh under the influence of prolonged heavy grazing. {\it Juncus} spp. occur in hollows and along the many ditches, but otherwise these areas are of lesser botanical interest. The recently created bank to the east and substantial areas of landfill to the northeast have a particularly modified flora, with ruderal species. Beyond this bank there is an area of saltmarsh, with {\it Puccinellia maritima} dominant. This is severely damaged by overgrazing and the southern part is now bare mud.

MANAGE:
A wide range of groups have an interest in the management of Northam Burrows. The common is owned by Devon County Council and managed as a Country Park; an excellent interpretation centre has been set up at (1). A large number of commoners ("cadwalladers") have grazing rights; there is a long-standing golf course; part is used as a landfill site; and there is heavy visitor pressure, particularly in summer. Most of the common is designated as an SSSI for its geomorphological and wildlife interest; it is an important part of an outstanding west coast estuarine system including the Taw-Torridge estuary SSSI and Braunton Burrows. A draft management plan was produced by DCC in January 1992 which seeks to reconcile these interests. In particular the issues of overgrazing, drainage and disturbance to wildfowl are addressed. It is suggested that stock numbers be reduced, all stock be cleared from December to March, and that supplementary feeding be prohibited. Tidal inundation is to be reinstated, to reverse the loss of coastal habitats caused by drainage. The use of the common as a landfill and recycling site is to be discontinued, and cars prevented from using Tip Road. Recreational activities are to be strictly limited. This draft plan has yet to be agreed, and at the time of the survey the common was still overgrazed, and cars still using Tip Road. 

A separate agreement is being made between English Nature and the Royal North Devon Golf Club to minimise the damage caused to wildlife by golfers and by course maintenance. 

The pebble ridge and sand dune system is important as a coastal defence, and some management is aimed at maintaining this. Most of the dunes are fenced off to prevent damage by visitors and grazing animals. Some breaches in the pebble ridge have been repaired by dumping stones. Stones have also been moved by DCC from the distal end to the Westward Ho! end, since few seem to be arriving to naturally replenish the ridge. However, since part of the value of the site is as a landform study area, these interventions are kept to a minimum.


FAUNA:
The common supports a range of bird species including two pairs of Stonechat, Snipe, Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Short-eared Owl with Buzzard and Raven feeding over the moor.

VEG:
The common is largely improved acid grassland with {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Trifolium repens, Lolium perenne, Cerastium holostoides} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

Along the two valleys which form streams in the centre of the common, culm grassland is still present.  The more western of the two contains {\it Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus} and {\it Molinia caerulea} dominated vegetation typical of NVC M23, with patches of fen meadow M24.  Species associated with these communities include {\it Galium palustre, Myosotis} spp., {\it Lotus corniculatus, Carex panicea, C. echinata, Viola riviniana, Cirsium dissectum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris and Ranunculus flammula}. In wetter areas along stream lines, is acid flush vegetation of {\it Juncus} and {\it Carex} spp. over occasional {\it Sphagnum palustre} and {\it Narthecium ossifragum}.  The second valley contains the same M6di and M6ci acid flushes, but is mainly {\it Molinia caerulea - Potentilla erecta} NVC M25a.  This is joined by {\it Erica tetralix, Viola riviniana} and other {\it Carex} and species as previously listed.  An area of {\it Ulex gallii} scrub occupies the eastern side of the valley.

Other species noted as present in the areas of marshy grassland include {\it Anagallis tenella, Succisa pratensis, Callitriche} sp., {\it Hypericum elodes, Montia fontana} and {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius} in small soakaways.

MANAGE:
The semi-improved grassland seems moderately grazed, whilst the shallow valley communities have been left and are only slightly poached.  The common is under the Countryside Stewardship Scheme in which only the already improved area of the site can be further fertilized, whilst the unimproved grassland is not to have further fertilizer treatment, but is to be moderately sheep grazed.  This management appears to be effective in maintaining the communities and their species diversity.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Chaffinch, Magpie, Crow.

VEG:
Way Down common is now dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some intervening {\it Rubus fruticosus}.Near paths and especially near the small patch of bare ground tall ruderal species can be found such as {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Artemisia vulgaris, Centaurea nigra, Urtica dioica, Cirsium} spp., {\it Rosa} spp., {\it Heracleum sphondylium}, and {\it Calystegia sepium}. The common is edged by {\it Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}.

The paths have {\it Holcus lanatus, Rumex acetosa, Linaria vulgaris, Achillea millefolium, Succisa pratensis, Cerastium holostoides, Leontodon autumnalis, Polygonum persicaria, Polygonum aviculare, Potentilla erecta, Filaginella uliginosa, Dactylis glomerata, Ranunculus acris} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}

MANAGE:
Unmanaged at present. A more species-rich grassland could be encouraged on this site once {\it Pteridium} treatment is instigated by spraying and or trampling.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen:  Meadow Pipit, Magpie, Stonechat, Tortoiseshell butterfly.

VEG:
This small common forms path of the larger Blackslade Mire SSSI (see CL69).

The acid grassland alongside the road consists primarily of {\it Agrostis curtisii, A. capillaris, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Danthonia decumbens}, accompanied by {\it Carex binervis, Luzula multifolia/campestris} and occasional {\it Nardus stricta}.  It is referrable to NVC community U3.

The acid grassland described above grades into a heathy area, slightly downslope from the road.  {\it Ulex gallii} is the principal dwarf shrub and the area of D5 mapped consists of a mosaic of NVC communities U3 and H4.

A damper area of heath mapped as D2/D6 is marked by high frequencies of {\it Molinia caerulea, Erica tetralix, Carex panicea, Calluna vulgaris} and relatively much less {\it Ulex gallii}, etc. mentioned above.

A small area of marshy grassland (B5) is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} tussocks with sparse growth of heathy species, and occasional {\it Junci} and {\it Sphagna}.  It is probably NVC M25.

MANAGE:
Grazed by stock, which have access from surrounding commons, ie. sheep, ponies and cattle.  The acid grassland is heavily grazed, the rest less so.  The dwarf shrubs are closely grazed where they occur in the acid grassland and some of the dry heath - acid grassland mosaic, but stature is better amongst small {\it Ulex gallii} clumps or {\it Molinia caerulea} tussocks.


VEG:
The site slopes moderately steeply northwards and supports a close-grazed sward of acid grassland (B11), in which are frequent scattered bushes of {\it Ulex europaeus}, browsed to 1-2m high in a "topiarised" form by stock (some are even "drumstick" shaped.  There are also occasional small {\it Crataegus monogyna} trees scattered in the grassland, and rather sparse scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (C12).

The B11 consists mainly of {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. curtisii, Festuca ovina, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Nardus stricta, Carex panicea} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.  Most of the grassland is referrable to NVC communities U3 and U4a.  Identical vegetation to adjacent CL191, Yennadon Down.

MANAGE:
Overgrazed by stock (cattle, sheep and ponies).


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Crows, Chaffinch, Starlings,Goldfinch.
Mammals: Rabbit.

VEG:
The common consists of a wet acid/neutral grassland and wet heath mosaic with some scrub and trees to the south and east sides.
There are patches of substantial {\it Ulex europaeus} and occasional {\it U. gallii} across the site.
Wetter areas are of more interest with {\it Mentha aquatica, Ranunculus flammula, Achillea ptarmica, Salix repens, Carex panicea, Myosotis} sp.,{\it Polygonum persicaria, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Anagallis tenella}.
Drier areas support {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Succisa pratensis, Scutellaria minor, Euphrasia} agg.{\it Prunella vulgaris, Filaginella uliginosa}. Some {\it Calluna vulgaris} is found near {\it Ulex} clumps.

By the road on the eastern side some {\it Quercus robur} trees are found with more substantial {\it Ulex sp.}. The roadbank supports good bryophyte growth including {\it Mnium hornum, Hypnum cupressiforme, Hypnum mammilatum, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

MANAGE:
The cattle and horse grazing probably enhances diversity on a site which looks more interesting than some of its surroundings. The site merits closer survey especially wetter areas for plants and invertebrates.

A Management Agreement agreed by NPA and Parish Council 1994/5.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Buzzards, Meadow pipit, Stonechat, Cuckoo, Chiffchaff, Pied Wagtail, Pheasant, Grasshopper warbler, Lapwing.
Badger sett maybe still used.

VEG:
The following is written up by MLA from IP notes.
The semi-improved mesotrophic grassland that makes up the higher areas of Hartridge includes {\it Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Holcus lanatus, Leontodon autumnalis, Cirsium} spp. {\it Stachys sylvatica, Rumex acetosa, Bellis perennis}. The southern point at Beacon has much scattered scrub, that includes {\it Quercus, Salix} and {\it Corylus avellana} intermixed with much {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. A small area of coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} lies on the eastern side while some protected {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} can be found near Shelves Farm. Dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} flanks the western side of Hartridge with patches of NVC M2bb with {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it Erica tetralix}. Towards the north are small areas of wet heath M16 and, above Hillend Farm, a long area of {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} under dense A2 scrub.

Luppitt Common has mesotrophic semi-improved grassland. The long thin section of common between Luppitt Common and the main part of Hense Moor has planted and protected {\it Corylus avellana, Sorbus aucuparia, Quercus} sp. over mesotrophic grassland with a small section of ploughed land.

Hense Moor has much semi-natural broad-leaved woodland with {\it Corylus avellana, Betula} sp. {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Fagus sylvatica, Salix} sp., with some clearings that include {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Silene dioica}. There are small areas on either side of Hense Moor with {\it Ulex europaeus} and dense scrub. Towards the south dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is intermingled with scrub trees. Wet heath is found in small areas at GR 173072, GR 174082 and GR 176084. This is NVC M16 with 40 per cent {\it Erica tetralix} with {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Juncus effusus} flush. Also found in these wet heaths are {\it Polygala serpyllifolia, Sphagnum auriculatum, Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum tenellum, Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea, Carex echinata, Drosera rotundifolia, Eriophorum angustifolium, Viola} sp. {\it Potentilla erecta, Aulacomnium palustre, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Carex binervis, Ulex europaeus}.

MANAGE:
No specific management notes available. Cattle grazing active. Refer to English Nature for management of Hense Moor which is an SSSI.


FAUNA:
The extensive areas of scrub provide a habitat for birds such as Tree Pipit, Willow Warbler, Black Cap and Whitethroat.  Butterfly species recorded include Painted Lady and Brimstone.  Roe Deer are known to graze the site which is also frequented by Badgers.  Dead wood in the scrub and woodland supports typical associates including the False Scorpion.

VEG:
The improved acidic grasslands on the hill plateau and eastern slopes have been maintained through regular mowing, but due to past improvement, they only support the more common grassland herbs within the sward.  Species include {\it Bromus hordaceous, Poa trivialis, Alopecurus pratensis, Trifolium repens, Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Phleum pratense} and {\it Rumex acetosa}.  An area of grassland on the eastern slope has been ploughed and re-seeded in the past.

The majority of the hill slopes are covered in dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum.  Hyancinthoides non-scripta} is abundant beneath in places and there are also patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.  An area on the north facing slope has recently been swaled with no regeneration at the time of the survey.

One very small remnant of wet heath occurs on the lower north-western slope (ST 173042) consisting of {\it Molinia caerulea} and a carpet of {\it Sphagnum} spp. with some {\it Erica tetralix}.  However, it is quickly drying and becoming overgrown by {\it Betula} and {\it Salix} making NVC classification difficult.

{\it Erica cinerea, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}, characteristic of dry heath, occur in small quantities on the ramparts (c. 20% cover), but they are joined by {\it Rubus fruticosus} scrub and {\it Pteridium aquilinum.  Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Galium saxatile} also occur here.

A valuable habitat for wildlife is the scattered scrub and denser patches of scrub and woodland on the lower margins of the common.  {\it Sambucus nigra} is the main species and is joined by {\it Ulex europaeus}, young {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Salix cinerea}.  On the north and east slopes these are joined by patches of {\it Corylus avellana} coppice.  The densest scrub cover is on the western edge where {\it Salix cinerea} scrub has developed on wet ground.  The marshy flora beneath is mostly species-poor consisting of {\it Juncus effusus} and increasing in the north part, {\it Viola palustris} and {\it Sphagnum palustre}.  The secondary {\it Betula} and {\it Salix} woodland developed on the north side, offers a ground flora of {\it Oxalis acetosella, Carex remota, C. sylvatica} and {\it Lysimachia nemorum.  Orchis mascula} ocurs on the banks of the old enclosure.  In the woodland fringe, {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula} spp. occur as the most frequent canopy species.

The only large trees on the property, apart from within the eastern woodland fringe, are in a small mature plantation of impressive {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees.  This is fenced and has abundant regeneration of {\it F. sylvatica} within it.  The acidic ground flora is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}.

MANAGE:
Current management by the National Trust is actively aimed at maintaining the site's habitat diversity.  The improved grassland areas are cut for hay and aftergrazed by sheep or cattle.  The National Trust recommend no further ploughing or re-seeding.

The site is occasionally grazed by sheep, but for more extensive, effective scrub removal, areas of scrub, including tree saplings, are felled and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} swailed.  This management is especially evident along the north slope.

{\it Pteridium aquilinum} clearance is also carried out on the fort embankments to encourage the failing presence (c. 1 per cent cover of the site) of dry heath species.


VEG:
The northeast end has species poor {\it Holcus lanatus - Agrostis stolonifera} grassland, with species such as {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Polygonum aviculare} indicating eutrophication and disturbance. There is some tall {\it Corylus avellana - Prunus spinosa}  scrub. Woodland of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus glutinosa, Salix caprea} and {\it Acer campestre} lines the stream, including some tall trees.

MANAGE:
Despite the superfluity of rights holders, the common is little-managed and the grass is rank.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Chaffinch, Magpie.
Mammals: Grey squirrel.

VEG:
This common is now largely woodland on the lower slopes with scrub and emerging woodland on the upper slopes.

The woodland supports {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Acer pseudoplatanus} with a ground flora that includes { Mercuralis perennis, Arum maculatum, Pteridium aquilinum, Teucrium scorodonia, Glechoma hederacea and Rubus fruticosus}.

The upper slopes support smaller {Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} with some tall ruderal species such as {Chamerion angustifolium, Eupatorium cannabinum, Achillea millefolium, Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
The common was probably more open at one time - hence grazing rights. The steep slope will have made it more marginal and hence it has become almost complete woodland except for the upper slopes which are still scrub. The rough track that follows the upslope boundary to houses and the changing use of the old school to residential 
use may lead to more informal use of the common for recreation. Some dumping of building waste has occurred either side of the enhanced track to the old school.


FAUNA:
Rabbit, various Bee spp., {\it Ichneumon} wasp sp., nothing else seen.

VEG:
This large common in the eastern part of Dartmoor is contiguous to CL103 and is part of a large block of commons.  Yarner Wood NNR forms its southern boundary, and the wooded Bovey Valley its NE boundary.

D11 - The relatively steep slopes support a large area of dry dwarf shrub heath in with the principal species include:  {\it Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea}.  Together these form a dense canopy of sub-shrubs.  {\it Agrostis curtisii, Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina} and {\it Erica tetralix} are occasional-to-frequent at low cover.  (There was considered to be sufficient {\it Erica tetralix} or {\it Molinia caerulea} for referral to D2, wet heath).  Infrequent species include {\it Cuscuta} sp. (on the {\it Ulex gallii}) and {\it Carex binervis}.  In NVC terms most of the heath falls into the H4 community.

C11 - Large swathes of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are scattered throughout the site, but particularly on the lower slopes and along streamsides.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is also locally frequent amongst the dwarf shrub heath.

D5 - Also amongst the heathland, are patches of acid grassland (B11), with form a mosaic with the D11 and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  Species in the B11 include {\it Agrostis curtisii, A. capillaris, Potentilla erecta and Festuca ovina}.  Most of it is probably the NVC community U3, although around the parking areas, U4a occurs.  (D11:B11 in most D5 is roughly 50:50 per cent).

A22 - Scattered small trees of {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} are occasional to rare in occurence throughout much of the D11 and C11.  Scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and (rarely) {\it Ilex aquifolium} also occur.

A111 - Deciduous woodland occupies narrow bands of the common along roadside and in the bottom of the Bovey Valley, where it is part of Houndtor Wood.  {\it Betula} sp., {\it Quercus} sp., and {\it Alnus glutinosa} (near the river) are the dominant species.  The small area of woodland in the valley is part of the Bovey Valley NNR and SSSI, and NCR site, which supports a diverse bryophyte flora under {\it Quercus-Betula}.

J5 - The B3344 bisects the common from east to west, and there are several parking areas along it which are short turf of U4a community.  {\it Ulex europaeus} is occasional along the roadside verges.

Therefore, the main Phase 1 habitats are D11 and C11, the main NVC communities are H4, U3 and U20, with some U4a.

MANAGE:
{\it Pteridium aquilinum} appears to be encroaching on some of the heathland, and there are also many sapling trees present.

Heather mostly appears to be in good condition, forming a dense dwarf shrub canopy of hummocks 30-50cm high.  The Dartmoor Habitat and Management Maps (1995), show the area NE of the B3344 to be "heathland that should be left unburnt", and to the SW of the road to be "heathland that may be burnt".  On the Dartmoor Heather Condition Maps the majority of the common is mapped as "healthy heather" - this agrees with the present survey field visit observations.


VEG:
This small hilltop comon mainly supports semi-improved acid grassland and neutral grassland.  {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub and scattered occur on the north slope.  In the small valley is overgrazed rush-pasture and a dry stream bed.  The small overgrown mixed woodland plantation is probably the best wildlife habitat on the site. Botanical interest is rather low.

Species frequent in the B11 and B12, which are U1 and U4b in NVC terms, include:  {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus lanatus} (co-dominants), {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Luzula campestris, Dactylis glomerata, Rumex acetosella, R. acetosa, Galium saxatile, Hypochoeris radicata, Cerastium fontanum, Taraxacum} agg., {\it Cirsium vulgare, Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus repens, Viola riviniana, Stellaria media, Poa annua, Lycoperdon} sp., {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

The more improved areas of neutral grassland (B4) are grass-dominated, species-poor turf, with abundant {\it Trifolium repens}.

An area alongside the dry streambed is intermediate between rush-pasture (impoverished M23b in U4b or M23b/U4b (B5)) and acid grassland (B12).  Species include {\it Juncus effusus, Cirsium palustre, Agrostis canina, Holcus lanatus, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa} and rare to occasional {\it Digitalis purpurea, Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it S. palustre}.  Possibly the area was formerly wetter.  The dry streambed supports few species of any interest although, {\it Myosotis} spp. and {\it Digitalis purpurea} are present.

Scattered scrub (A22) consists of scattered isolated {\it Crataegus monogyna} in B11 and B12, {\it Ulex europaeus, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} lining the footpath, and a small area of dense {\it Ulex europaeus}-dominated scrub on the north slope (A21).

A tiny area of overgrown, unmanaged mixed woodland plantation, fenced-off from the rest of the common with barbed wire, encloses a dense growth of sickly young {\it Fagus sylvatica, Pinus} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Alnus glutinosa, Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Ulex} sp., {\it Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Oxalis acetosella}.  Together these form an impenetrable thicket which could provide good habitat (the trees are around 15 years old).

MANAGE:
Heavily grazed by sheep, enclosed commonland, semi-improved, evidence of muck-spreading recently, small apparently untended plantation.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Meadow pipit, Crows, Wheatear.

VEG:
Lydford Inner Common reflects a fairly typical 'section' through the western slopes of Dartmoor. That is to say that the higher plateau has blanket bog, the west-facing slopes have valley mires and dry heathland and the lower slopes have acid grassland with encroaching (\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The blanket bog (NVC M17) has {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Eriophorum vaginatum}, and some {\it  Molinia caerulea}.

The sides of Rattlebrook Hill and the area towards Bleak House have more mire communities (e.g. M25a) with {\it Molinia caerulea} in abundance with some areas of acid grassland.
Brat Tor, Doe Tor and Sharp Tor have dry heath with areas of abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtilis} with {Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Erica cinerea, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile}. Grazing damage is evident here. Areas around Doe Tor (which form part of Wilsworthy Range) are designated as 'chronically heavily grazed' in the Willsworthy Heather Utilization Survey of 1993. (R. Archer).

Some Valley mire areas exist such as along Rattle brook, E of Rattlebrook Hill and NNE of Widgery Cross. The lower slopes have much {\it Pteridium aquilinum} especially around the area excluded from the Common at Doetor Farm. The acid grassland areas include small areas of strong {Molinia caerulea} that are heavily grazed.
There is an exclosure area on High Down which demonstrates the spectacular growth of all heathland species including {\it Ulex minor, Erica cinerea, Calluna vulgaris, Agrostis curtisii, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile} under non-grazed conditions.

MANAGE:
The main slopes of the common are overgrazed and species poor. The area around Doe Tor is within Willsworthy Range and is designated ' chronically heavily grazed' though not all is 'presently overgrazed' in the Willsworthy Heather Utilization Survey of 1993 (R. Archer).
There is quite heavy recreational use of the lower areas for walking, cycling and horse riding especially focussed near the car park area just E. of Dartmoor Inn. At the time of survey large groups of riders evident.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Meadow Pipit, Stonechat, Carrion Crow.

VEG:
Dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} covers most of the lower slopes.  This grades uphill into dry heath via areas of D11/C12 (particularly on the west slopes of Honeybag Tor).  Dry dwarf shrub heath is the other major habitat type on the common, and is mainly of NVC communities H12a and H4a, plus some intermediate areas around the top of Honeybag Tor.  The H12 predominates on the high ground of Hameldown, and the H4 seems to occupy a region between the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and the H12 in altitude.  Species in the D11 (H4) on Honeybag Tor are the same as for CL68 (with which it is contiguous) and include prominent {\it Ulex gallii}, accompanied by high frequencies of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}.  Most of the Hameldown D11 (H12), however, is dominated by the ericoids, rather than {\it Ulex gallii} and consists primarily of {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Erica cinerea} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} relatively frequent but, not at a high cover.  {\it Hypnum jutlandicum} and {\it Dicranum scoparium} are the main cryptograms.

The area of D5 acid grassland and dry heath mosaic around the summit of Honeybag Tor is a mix of H4/H12 intermediate vegetation and NVC U3 type grassland with abundant {\it Agrostis curtisii} and {\it A. capillaris.  Vaccinium myrtillus} is also more prominent here, especially where is has the protection of boulders.

A small area of wet heath belonging to NVC community M15a is limited to the Hameldown half of the common.  Other wet habitats also only found in this half include valley mire (E31) and acid flush (E21).  These include the NVC communities M6a, M6c and M21 (see NCC, 1987).

MANAGE:
The Bonehill Down section appears to be mainly sheep and pony grazed, and designated as "heathland that should be left unburnt" in the Dartmoor Habitat and Management Maps (1995), and "slightly overgrazed" on the Heather Condition Survey Maps.

On Hameldown the heather condition is healthy for the most part, and is mapped also as heathland not to be burnt.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Stonechats, Meadow Pipits, Carrion Crow, Wheatear, Small White butterfly, Tortoiseshell butterfly.

VEG:
NVC communities present include H4, U3, U4a, U20, U1, M25b, M15, M23b, M29, H12/H4, H12, M21 and M6a.

Dry dwarf shrub heath and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are the most extensive habitats on this common.  The former tends to dominate the highest ground, the bracken being most prolific on the slopes.  Rocky tors occur on the Bonehill Down section of the common, but not on the other two section on Dunstone and Hamel Downs.  There are also five small valley mires.

D11 - In the dry dwarf shrub heath the principal species are {\it Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}.  In some areas (eg. path of Dunstone Down), {\it Ulex gallii} is the dominant sub-shrub, with the other species frequent at low cover, and approaches being {\it Ulex gallii} hummocks in a "ground matrix" of NVC U3-type grassland.  But over most of the site, the dwarf shrub cover is high in the heathland areas.  On the highest ground, and amongst the tors (eg. Bonehill Rocks, Bell Tor and Chinkwell Tor) the cover/abundance of {\it Ulex gallii} decreases, and there are increased abundances of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Carex binervis, Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Cladonia} spp. (mostly {\it C. portentosa}).

Most of the heathland is NVC community H4, although H12 occurs in the region of Hameldown Beacon, and an intermediate H4/H12 occurs on the highest ground of Bonehill Down.

D2 and D6 - Damper heathy vegetation is marked by frequent to abundant {\it Molinia caerulea}, which is mainly closely-grazed "lawns" between the dwarf shrubs, and is not tussocky.  Wet heath areas occur where {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} replace {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it Erica cinerea} as the most frequent dwarf shrubs.  {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} is locally frequent/abundant - such areas represent NVC community M15.

Where the wet heath grades into the dry heath upslope of it there are intermediate areas of {\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated (M25b) vegetation occurring as "lawns" in a mosaic with hummocky dwarf shrub patches of dry heath (H4) vegetation - eg. Bonehill Down where the dry heath grades into wet heath and valley mire habitats.

B11 - Areas of closely-grazed acid grassland are scattered all over the common.  In many areas this forms a mosaic of the D11 (mostly H4) in rough proportions of D11:B11 65:35 per cent cover, mapped as "D5".  In NVC terms most of this grassland is U3 or U4a, although tiny areas of U1 occur on paths and some very dry slopes and small hummocks.

U4a occurs around Bonehill Rocks where it is heavily grazed by stock, and trampled by visitors.  In this area {\it Agrostis capillaris} dominates, and is accompanied by high frequencies of {\it Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}, with occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Aira praecox}.  U4 is also found amongst H4 in the D5 mosaic, south of Hameldown Beacon (NCC, 1987).  However, in most of the D5 it is U3 that occurs in a mosaic with H4 heath.  The U3 is similar in species composition and physiognomy to the U4a, but {\it Agrostis curtisii} is very abundant.  Occasional species include {\it Carex panicea, C. pilulifera, Hypochoeris radicata, Danthonia decumbens} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}.  Some of the U3 has closely-grazed sparse shoots of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Ulex gallii}, but the grasses are dominant.

E31 and E21 - Five small valley mires or acid flushes occur on the common.  The acid flushes contain much the same species as the valley mires (but are much smaller areas).  The NVC communities present include M6a, M6c, M21 soakaway and M15 and tiny areas of M23b.  Species found in these habitats include: {\it Sphagnum auriculatum, S. recurvum, S. capillifolium, S. papillosum}, (sparse) {\it Molinia caerulea, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Hypericum elodes, Drosera rotundifolia, Narthecium ossifragum, Viola palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Lotus pedunculatus, Anagallis tenella, Ranunculus flammula, Epilobium palustre, Pedicularis palustris, Juncus articulatus, J. bulbosus, J. effusus, J. acutiflorus, Eriophorum angustifolium, E. vaginatum, Aulacomnium palustre, Polytrichum commune, Mentha aquatica, Cirsium palustre, Carex panicea, C. viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa} and {\it Erica tetralix}.  These areas are generally the most species-rich habitats on the common in botanical terms.

G2 - Small oligotrophic streams and associated springs and seepages, within the valley mires and acid flush vegetation.

B5 - Marshy grassland is associated with some of the valley mires and flushes, but the area is quite small.  Most is {\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated M25a and M25b, with grazed non-tussocky growth of {\it Molinia caerulea}.  There are also small areas of {\it Juncus effusus} marshy grassland (M23b in NVC terms).  Most of the marshy grassland is found on the Bonehill Down part of the common.

A2 - Scrub and scattered scrub occurs on small areas (mainly in the SW corner of Bonehill Down) and is composed mostly of {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia}, with some tall {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

J141 - Small, granite tors and rocky outcrops punctuate the Bonehill Down part of the common.  Bryophytes and lichens are conspicuous on these, usually with {\it Sedum anglicum}.  Few ferns were noted growing in rocky cracks and, in general, the vegetation immediately surrounding the rocks is intensly grazed, dunged and used as shelter by stock.  As a result, {\it Agrostis capillaris} dominates the B11/B12 type grassland here, often accompanied by {\it Rumex acetosella}.

MANAGE:
Tors and B11 are heavily grazed by ponies and sheep.  There is a few signs of slight erosion on the most well-used footpaths.

Much of the {\it Ulex gallii} and heathers are "leggy" or closely grazed in the Dunstone Down area.  Ulex gallii often dominates and gives some protection to the heathers growing amongst it, so that there are also sizeable areas of healthy heather - eg. Bonehill Down area.  Most of the heather is young-to-middle aged, with very little mature heather - probably due to grazing levels.  However, in the Dunstone Down area where some {\it Ulex gallii} is leggy and older/taller, the heather in the turf around the {\it Ulex gallii} bushes is often grazed to a "carpet" form of growth, and is rather sparse.

There are some areas of severely overgrazed heather pinpointed on the Dartmoor Heather Condition Maps - all of the Dunstone Down section of the common, the area around Chinkwell Tor on Bonehill Down, and the area of D5 in the south of the Hameldown section.  The field visits for the common land survey in 1995 confirmed that Dunstone Down is still in the same condition, and the area to the east and south of Chinkwell has much {\it Ulex gallii}, but some {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} and is in a slightly better condition than much of Dunstone.

According to the Habitat and Management Maps of Dartmoor (1995) all the heather on this common is suitable for burning.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Meadow pipit, Magpie, Raven, Stonechat, Wheatear, Small Heath butterfly, Small White butterfly, Tortoiseshell butterfly, Fox Moth caterpillar, Rabbit.

VEG:
The common comprises two separate areas - the main area to the east of the East Webburn River valley includes Blackslade Mire SSSI and a smaller area on part of Dunstone Down to the west of the valley.

D11 - Dry dwarf shrub heath is one of the main habitat types, and most of this falls into the NVC community H4.  The principal species present include {it Ulex gallii} (abundant-dominant), {\it Erica cinerea} (abundant), {\it Calluna vulgaris} (frequent), {\it Agrostis curtisii} (frequent), non-tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} (frequent), {\it Festuca ovina} (occasional-frequent), {\it Erica tetralix} (occasional-locally frequent), {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} (occasional) and {\it Carex binervis} (rare to occasional).

Around the tops of Pil Tor, Top Tor, Hollow Tor and Tunhill Rocks, {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} increases in abundance, and {\it Ulex gallii} decreases, indicating affinities with NVC community H12.  In the environs of Blackslade and the track from Blackslade Water to Blackslade Farm and Rugglestone, {\it Ulex europaeus} is locally present in the heath.

B11 and D5 - There are extensive areas (mapped as D5) in which the dry heath occurs in a mosaic with acid grassland.  Species occurring in the grassland (B11) include {\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis curtisii, A. capillaris, Molinia caerulea} (at low cover), {\it Danthonia decumbens, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Carex binervis} and a variety of other species such as {\it Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus, Polygala serpyllifolia, Luzula multiflora} and {\it Dicranum scoparium} at a locally high frequency.  In some areas of closely-grazed or previously burned B11, there are sparse, short shoots of {\it Ulex gallii, Erica cinerea} and occasionally {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

Most of the B11 grassland is referrable to U3 in NVC terms.  On some of the lower ground, as at the margins of Blackslade Mire, and in the NW corner of the common near Rugglestone, Venton and Hollow Tor, {\it Molinia caerulea} is abundant in the short grassland giving transitional vegetation intermediate to U3 and M25b.  In these areas, the D5 consists of H4 heath species ({\it Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, E. tetralix, Hypnum jutlandicum}, etc.), in a U3/M25b 'hybrid' grassland mosaic.  In some areas, the {\it Ulex gallii} can be rather leggy in growth form.

D6 and D2 - There are areas of wet dwarf shrub heath and acid grassland mosaic (mapped as D2 and D6), in the regions of Rugglestone and Blackslade Mire.  There are intermediate habitats between D5 and D6 where wet heath grades into drier habitats upslope.  In the wet heath areas, {\it Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Carex panicea} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} are more abundant and {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it Erica cinerea} are absent.  Marshy grassland (B5) of {\it Molinia caerulea} and/or {\it Juncus effusus} vegetation (M25b and M23b in the NVC) forms mosaics with wet and dry heath vegetation in some of these areas which are transitions from mire to heath communities.

E31 and E21 - Blackslade Mire SSSI was described by Fojt and Shaw (1987) as a valley mire at the watershed of a tributary of the R. Webburn, with several small springs, seepages, pools and meandering water channels.  Mounds of mineral material support {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}, the main substrate being shallow peat.  There are areas of floating mire vegetation, {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} dominated community, M21 {\it Narthecium-Sphagnum} mire and M29 {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius - Hypericum elodes} soakaway.  The hummocky nature of the terrain confines these communities to small discrete areas (ie. mosaic).  Other communities occurring in the mosaic include M23 and M6c.

The M21 is characterised by the dominance of {\it Sphagna} (including {\it S. subnitens} and {\it S. auriculatum}).  The M29 is markedly wetter with high frequencies/abundance of {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius, Hypericum elodes, Menyanthes trifoliata, Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Juncus acutiflorus}.  The last species is locally dominant both on solid and semi-floating peat.  In places this vegetation is intermediate to M23a and M29 NVC communities.

The current common land survey visit found the mire to be intact, and the species abundances described in previous surveys to be still present and largely unaltered over the years as far as could be determined from the (necessarily brief) field visit.  Owing to the hot, dry 1995 summer, the mire was drier than would probably be normal.

Species occurring frequently throughout the Blackslade Mire complex include the following: {\it Molinia caerulea} (abundant to dominant), {\it Juncus effusus, Juncus acutiflorus, Sphagna} (principally {\it S. papillosum, S. recurvum, S. auriculatum, S. capillifolium, S. pulchrum, S. subnitans), Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Narthecium ossifragum, Viola palustris, Drosera rotundifolia, Eriophorum angustifolium, E. vaginatum, Menyanthes trifoliata, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Hypericum elodes, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex nigra} and {\it C. panicea}. Other species found include: {\it Anagallis tenella, Wahlembergia hederacea, Potentilla palustris, Pedicularis palustris, Pinguicula lusitanica , Succisa pratensis, Carex echinata, Eleogiton fluitans} and {\it Eleocharis} spp (see SSSI citation, 1986).

Similar communities also occur in smaller areas, SW of Tunhill Rocks and S of Hollow Tor, outside the SSSI.  Small patches of M6a, M6c, M23b/M25b, M21 and M29 occur.  Species are similar to those in the larger Blackslade Mire, but fewer in number and less species-rich.  E21 flushes near Rugglestone include: {\it Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, J. bulbosus, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Hypericum elodes, Ranunculus flammula, Anagallis tenella, Drosera rotundifolia, Mentha aquatica, Cirsium palustre, Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex panicea, C. viridula} ssp. {\it Oedocarpa}, Viola palustris, Sphagna, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Polytrichum commune}.

Small areas of broadleaved woodland (A111) are mainly {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, some {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.  Scrub includes {\it Ulex europaeus, Sorbus aucuparia, Rubus fruitcosus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, plus {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  The areas of dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} C11, are generally of low botanical interest and not surveyed in detail.

The granite tors are on the eastern limit of the Dartmoor granite outcrop.  They tend to be surrounded by heavily grazed D5 with U3 or U4a and a smattering of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Erica cinerea} in the protection of protruding boulders.  {\it Cladonia} spp. and bryophytes such as {\it Dicranum scoparium} also occur frequently here (lichens growing on the rocks were not surveyed owing to time constraints).

MANAGE:
The Blackslade and Dunstone Commoners Assocation graze the common with sheep, ponies and cattle.  Stock tend to congregate and shelter in the lee of the tor rocks and the B11 and D5 in such places is very heavily grazed, keeping down the heath species and bracken.  Popular tors like Pil Tor, are also subject to a degree of trampling from visitors.  Footpaths are generally grassy (B11) and not showing many signs of erosion, except for the most popular areas near carparks, where the Dartmoor National Park may close eroded paths (as at Stenifords Cross, where a closed path has now largely grown back, although the current path is beginning to erode slightly).

The owner of Blackslade Mire SSSI writes in 1986, that the area has been subjected to periodic burns for the last 50 years, and that the fires were started by the public.

The heather condition varies.  Severe overgrazing has occurred on Dunstone Down and parts of the west of Blackslade Down.  In these areas, often leggy Ulex gallii is the main dwarf shrub in a close-grazed sward of U3 grassland.  Healthy heather occurs to the east of Top Tor and in the Blackslade Mire area.  The remainder is slightly overgrazed (Heather Condition Maps).  This was borne out by field visits on the present survey.  The Dartmoor Habitats and Management Maps (1995) show all the D11 and D5 as "heathland that may be burnt".  In places, the dwarf shrub are 0.5-1m tall (eg. just south of Pil Tor around GR 734756 area).

Bracken encroachment could present a problem as extensive areas already exist and the current survey showed some spread of it into heathy areas eg. around Tunhill Rocks and Hollow Tor, which appears to exceed the 1992 airphoto and previous maps, heather-bracken boundaries.  The other main threat seems to be degradation of the H4 community to a more {\it Ulex gallii}-dominated vegetation in U3 species.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Adder, Stonechat, various orthoptera (heard).

VEG:
A sizeable stand of dry dwarf shrub heath referrable to NVC community H4, consists mainly of a relatively few species and is dominated by a mixture of {\it Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}.  In most areas this is invaded by scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, and locally by scrub species - especially {\it Rubus fruticosus}, young {\it Betula} sp., some young {\it Pinus}, and occasionally {\it Ulex europaeus.  Molinia caerulea} and {\it Festuca ovina} are locally frequent at low cover in a non-tussocky form.

In the extreme eastern corner of the common around the car park is a mix of D11, A2 and C11, with {\it Ulex} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} to waist high in places (adder seen amongst this).  The {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub is mostly near the road.  The denser areas of scrub grade into wooded areas, particularly near the road and NE margins of the common.  {\it Rubus fruticosus} are occasional.

A small area of deciduous woodland (A111) is dominated by {\it Betula} sp., accompanied by {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Salix} sp., {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum.  Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} on the ground beneath the trees are accompanied by a few bryophyte species eg. {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}.  Small clearings contain {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex gallii - Erica cinerea} (H4) heath.

The car parking spaces are mainly short turf of {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Potentilla erecta, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it A. curtisii} - NVC U4b mainly.

MANAGE:
Partly managed as viewpoints for the public.  No stock present at time of survey, although these presumably have access from adjacent large areas of common land.  Scrub and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} invasion is very noticeable near the wooded areas, but this provides a more varied habitat range.  Management appears to be "low key".


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Great spotted woodpecker, Nuthatch, Chaffinch, Magpie, Crows.
Butterflies: Numerous fritillaries

Recorded from SSSI site: 
Birds: Dipper, Grey wagtail.
Otters.
Butterflies: {\it Argynnis adippe} (High Brown Fritillary), RDB2, {\it Boloria euphrosyne} (Pearl-bordered Fritillary), {\it Boloria silene} (Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary), {\it Quercusia quercus} (Purple Hairstreak), {\it Argynnis paphia} (Silver-washed Fritillary)
Moths: {\it Lampropteryx otregiata} (Devon Carpet Moth).

VEG:
The site is in two broad categories. Firstly that of West Down which is acid grassland that is heavily invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub. The {\it Viola} spp. which underlie the {\it Pteridium} provide food for the High brown Fritillary butterflies. Other plant species here include {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Bellis perennis, Achillea millefolium, Campanula rotundifolia}.

Grenofen Wood is 'dominated by both {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Quercus petraea} with occasional {\it Betula pendula, Sorbus aucuparia, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium}.' (SSSI Citation). Lower areas have {\it Alnus glutinosa, Frangula alnus}.

The woods near Watersmeet Cottage have young {\it Quercus robur} with {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana} as understorey. The trees have a good lichen growth of {\it Usnea} sp. and the acidic ground flora here includes {\it Galium saxatile, Rhytidiadelphus} sp.{\it Potentilla erecta, Anagallis tenella}. There is good bryophyte growth near exposed rocks e.g. {\it Dicranum majus, Hypnum mammilatum, Polytrichum commune}.

Nearer Buckator the wood includes ({\it Quercus robur, Betula} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The ground flora has {\it Oxalis acetosella, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Blechnum spicant, Dryopteris filix-mas, Thuidium tamariscinum, Deschampsia flexuosa} with some excellent {\it Usnea} lichen growth.

There are interesting trees near Buckator - eg. a line of {\it Fagus sylvatica} that top some old walls and a few {\it Quercus} sp. specimens that may have been pollarded.

The canopy opens up between Buckator and Bymore Wood with some scrub {\it Quercus} sp. {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and small areas of damp heath and flush that include {\it Ulex europaeus, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Potentilla erecta, Hypericum elodes, Drosera rotundifolia, Sphagnum} sp.

Moving towards Grenofen bridge one re-enters damp woodland with much {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} sp. abundant on the slopes. Near the old quarry more {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} is present. The quarry itself has much {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Blechnum spicant, Ranunculus repens, Veronica} sp.

Grenofen Wood is particularly rich in lichens and over 80 species are recorded. The rare oceanic lichen {\it Parmelia horescens} is found here and {\it Cetrelia cetrarioides, Desmatina quercus, Cladonia ochrochlora, Dimerella diluta}

MANAGE:
The woods provide superb riverside walking and horse-riding. Perhaps some written information about the wildlife and industrial archaeology of the old quarry and Westdown mine could be provided. The very small wet heath/flush areas should be protected from further invasion by scrub.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Magpies, Crows, Chaffinch, Robin, Stonechat.
Mammals: Rabbits.
Butterflies: Red admiral.

VEG:
Plaster Down Common is essentially a {\it Pteridium aquilinum} invaded acid grassland.
The grassland contains {\it Bellis perennis, Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina, Poa annua, Rumex acetosella, Prunella vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Achillea millefolium, Cerastium holostoides, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex panicea, Thymus polytrichus, Potentilla erecta, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}. 

The Grimstone and Sortridge leat passes through the common north of Riland plantation and provides very small patches of mire vegetation with species such as {\it Hypericum elodes, Wahlembergia hederacea, Juncus bufonius, Ranunculus flammula, Sphagnum} sp. {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Anagallis tenella}.

The southernmost section, East of Riland Plantation has some tree species such as {\it Crataegus monogyna} within the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and a line of {\it Betula} sp. {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Quercus robur}. A NE facing edge of this section has line of {\it Fagus sylvatica} which curves round towards Riland Plantation.

MANAGE:
The large areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are well defined and may have reached their maximum extent with current grazing and recreation pressure. If the use of this area rather than others is to be encouraged for model aircraft flying and golf practice, walking etc. more active control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} may be in order.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Wheatear, Meadow pipit,
Kestrel.

VEG:
The vegetation of CL85 consists of Acid grassland, flushes, high tors, Bracken and valley mires.

The tors have bare rock exposure with boulders that are set in acid grassland. The rocks often (eg. Pew Tor) support substantial lichen communities. Fissures have {\it Polypodium vulgare, Vaccinium myrtillus, Umbilicus rupestris, Sedum anglicum}. Bryophytes here include {\it Hypnum mammilatum, Grimmia} sp. and {\it Polytrichum commune}. 

The acid grassland that surrounds the boulders and makes up substantial parts of the common includes {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex binervis, Nardus stricta, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Polygala serpyllifolia, Poa annua, Festuca ovina}. Some areas have substantial {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes which are sometimes heavily grazed. There is also occasional {\it Ulex gallii}.Where small areas of heath vegetation occur {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens are found amongst {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Erica cinerea} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}.

The areas infested with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} also support some {\it Ulex europaeus} and occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna}. 

Some valley mires have developed south of Tinners' Hut and east of Whitchurch Common. These areas support {\it Hypericum elodes, Ranunculus flammula, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Drosera rotundifolia, Juncus bufonius, Juncus squarrosus, Carex echinata, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus, Sphagnum cespitosus, Menyanthes trifoliata, Sphagnum auriculatum, Sphagnum compactum, Polytrichum commune}.
Other wetter areas on the common provide more diversity than the main grassland. For example the Grimstone and Sortridge Leat has intermittent {\it Hypericum elodes, Drosera rotundifolia, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Juncus squarrosus, Juncus bufonius, Scutellaria minor, Sphagnum} spp. and {\it Erica tetralix}. Several flushes have the above species as well as  {\it Wahlembergia hederacea}, and {\it Viola palustris}.

MANAGE:
Currently grazed fairly heavily near B road, where there is also quite high amenity use.
The {\it Pteridium aquilinum} areas to the south could be controlled to increase species diversity, expand grazing and even out recreational pressure.


FAUNA:
The site supports a varied and interesting fauna.  Birdlife recorded includes Curlew, Hobby, Little Owl, Stonechat, Grasshopper Warbler and a pair of Buzzards were seen hunting overhead.  The rich invertebrate fauna includes five species of Fritillary Butterfly, including the local Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary and Marsh Fritillary.  The nationally scarce Silver-studded Blue and Small Grass Emerald Moth are also present.  Breeding Mallard are now present on a newly created pond.

VEG:
The first notable characteristic of the common is a sandy 30 foot wide track which bisects it, east to west.  Heavy tyre tracks indicate frequent use by machinery and the vegetation at the sides has been trampled and dumped with sandy spoil.  Much of the common periphery is covered in a dense scrub of {\it Betula pubescens, Salix} sp., {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex europaeus} to varying proportions.  Occasional {\it Pinus sylvestris} seedlings can be seen scattered amongst areas of scattered scrub or continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.  A dry heathland vegetation occupies the higher, freely-drained parts of the site.  This is characterised by a mosaic of well-developed {\it Calluna vulgaris} (c. 70 per cent), {\it Erica cinerea} (c. 10 per cent), {\it Erica tetralix} (c. 5 per cent), {\it Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Ulex gallii} (NVC H4).  In places, dense stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex europaeus} occur.

Towards the valley bottom, the influence of the groundwater and poorer drainage conditions are reflected in the vegetation.  {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Erica tetralix} become more prevalent, together with many species including {\it Cirsium dissectum, Succisa pratensis, Pedicularis sylvatica, Carex panicea, C. echinata} and {\it Juncus effusus}.  A large pond has recently been dug in the valley bottom, probably replacing valley mire vegetation previously described in the 1990 SSSI notation.  Its margins are now abundant {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Betula} spp., with {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius} as one of the many aquatics present.

The M5 motorway now crosses the north section of the common removing a large area of vegetation not only for the motorway itself, but for the embankments that border it.  On these, semi-improved mesotrophic grassland is revegetating together with {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub.

MANAGE:
The common's private owner bought out all of the commoners, blocked the original public entrances, created a large pond in the valley and has built a 30 foot wide race-track across the site.  Unfortunately, a deed of public access was revoked in 1983 (Open Space, Spring 1992 (24:3)).  In response to these encroachments a local campaign group was set up by the commoners to try and persuade Devon C.C. to take action to prevent the further destruction of the common.  English Nature was also informed as the site is an SSSI.  

The only apparent vegetation management is a small degree of scrub and {\it Betula} sapling clearance from existing tracks and possibly, some burning as the {\it Calluna vulgaris} has been kept short in some areas.  The bulk of the common is therefore, in urgent need of scrub and bracken clearance to prevent further encroachment over the open heathland, and some form of rotational burning to maintain its diversity and replace past grazing management.  The site supports a sizeable area of lowland heath and associated fauna, and so it is important that this is not allowed to fragment or be lost.


FAUNA:
A typical heathland invertebrate fauna is present including a wide variety of butterfly species, such as Small Heath, birds such as Stonechat and aracnids are also notably abundant.  The site is regionally important for birds which favour heathland habitats.

Invertebrate Site Register Site No ?

10 species listed are recorded from Little Breach Butterfly Reserve. (Dark-green Fritillary, Silver-washed Fritillary, Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Green Hairstreak, Marsh Fritillary, Grayling, Marbled White, Grizzled Skipper, Purple Hairstreak, Brown Hairstreak).
2 species from Culmstock Beacon (Dingy skipper, Pearl-bordered Fritillary)

VEG:
Blackdown Common is a fine example of extensive, mature heathland, carr woodland and marshy grassland habitats.  Along the hill plateau is high quality heathland with a diverse mixture of small shrubs; {\it Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris} (c. 80 per cent) and {\it Erica cinerea} (c. 20 per cent), dominant species, together with  {\it Erica tetralix, Agrostis curtisii} and local {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} (NVC H4).  To the south, this becomes increasingly mixed with blocks of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} an encroaching  {\it Betula pubescens} scrub.  The frequency of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} also increases.  A small pond has been created adjacent to the track with, as yet, no established aquatics.  Alongside the grassy tracks which cross the heath, and in burned areas, {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and abundant {\it Agrostis setacea} can be found.

At the base of the hill's steep slope, is a large area of acid marshy grassland (NVC M25a).  {\it Molinia caerulea} is abundant with {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Sphagnum} spp..  The wetter areas along the springline contain abundant {\it Narthecium ossifragum}, with weak {\it Molinia caerulea, Sphagnum tenellum} and extremely local {\it S. auriculatum} and {\it S. subnitens}.  In other areas, {\it Molinia caerulea} is more prolific, yet still with abundant {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Sphagnum} spp., including {\it S. compactum}.  Other species are also present, such as {\it Succisa pratensis, Carex panicea} and {\it Juncus acutiflorus}.  {\it Trichophorum cespitosus} is frequent throughout the marshy grassland, but together with {\it Sphagnum compactum}, disappears on the transition to dry heath, further upslope.  During this transition, where {\it Calluna vulgaris} becomes constant, the vegetation's greatest affinity is probably with NVC M15 wet heath.

The {\it Molinia caerulea} marshy grassland can also be seen in occasional depressions along the steeper slope of dry heath and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

Small carr woodlands are present on the poorly drained soils of the common's perimeter. {\it Betula} is the dominant canopy tree, often singled from old coppice stools, with {\it Alnus glutinosa} locally abundant.  In the wettest parts {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Sphagnum palustre} carpet the woodland floor.  The upper slopes are drier, with more {\it Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, and a ground flora dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

In the north east of the site, old field boundaries can be picked out by the presence of {\it Agrostis curtsii} and slightly raised areas.

MANAGE:
English Nature hold a management agreement with the owner over part of the site to prevent uncontrolled fires and damage by vehicles.
Some erosion restoration work has been carried out by Dartmoor National Park.

Areas of heath have been burned in the past due to the heterogenous natue of the vegetation, and some areas have recently been burnt.

The site is important as it is the only remaining large tract of interesting dry heathland, apart from Pebblebed Commons and North Dartmoor, in the county.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Rook, Buzzard, Rabbit, Swallow, Small White butterfly, Dragonfly (unidentified in flight).

VEG:
The site consists of moderately steep, predominantly dry, {\it Pteridium aquilinum} covered slopes (C11) with lesser areas of acid grassland (B11) and dry heath (D11).  NVC communities occurring include: U20, U4a, U4b, MG6, M25b, U3, H4.

C11 - Dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} dominates over much of the site, with an impoverished grassy "understorey".  Individual small trees of mainly {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula/pubescens} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} are scattered throughout (A22), but mainly on the northern and eastern slopes.  A small stand of deciduous woodland (A111) is contiguous with woodland outside the common and is a mix of mainly {\it Betula pubescens, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus} spp., {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} (it was not surveyed in detail, being marginal to the site).  Lichens (eg. {\it Evernia prunastri}) are frequent on the trees.

B12/B11 - The acid grassland stands are comprised mainly of {\it Agrostis-Festuca} grassland, NVC sub-community U4b near the road, and U4a on the higher slopes (the former is the semi-improved {\it Holcus-Trifolium} sub-community, the latter a typical sub-community).  Species present include: {\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Potentilla erecta, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Trifolium repens, Poa pratensis, Lolium perenne, Cerastium fontanum} and scattered {\it Juncus effusus}.  In poached areas near the road {\it Rumex acetosella, Bromus hordeaceus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. also occur.

B5 - Tiny patches of grassland are damper and dominated by closely grazed lawn of {\it Molinia caerulea}.  These small areas of marshy grassland fall into NVC community M25b, {\it Molinia caerulea - Potentilla erecta} mire, {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} sub-community.

D11 - Areas of dry heath referrable to the NVC community H4, {\it Ulex gallii - Agrostis curtisii} heath, include the following main species: {\it Ulex gallii, Agrostis curtisii, Potentilla erecta, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Carex binervis, Molinia caerulea} and (locally) {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg..  {\it Ulex gallii} is the principal sub-shrub, with the {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea} only present at low cover growing through the gorse hummocks.

D5 - Areas of acid grassland - dry heath mosaic are principally U4-H4 or U3-H4 mixtures in NVC terms.  Intermediates also occur (U3/H4, ie. B11/D5).  The proportion of grassland:heath is roughly 50:50%.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep (and possibly ponies - not seen) most heavily on the acid grassland stands.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} encroachment is severe.  Small areas appeared to have been burnt (B11/D5 stands) and recolonised by acid grassland tending towards heath.  There is very little heather present on this site.


FAUNA:
Site not surveyed. The E. Dartmoor SSSI citation, which includes this common, refers in general to moorland birds such as Red Grouse, Snipe, Curlew, Wheatear, Whinchat, Ring Ouzel.

VEG:
This common is part of the largest area of heather moorland remaining on Dartmoor. The habitat map is drawn from the 1987 E. Dartmoor survey. The dry dwarf heath which covers much of Hameldown Tor has supports {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Erica tetralix, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Ulex gallii}. Intervening grassland includes {\it Molinia caerulea, Nardus stricta, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Agrostis curtisii}.

Either side of Hameldown Tor has extensive invasion of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.
The valley mire communities have extensive {\it Sphagna} e.g. {\it S. papillosum, S. auriculatum, S. capillifolium} where water flow is limited. Communities with more water movement support {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Sphagnum recurvum, S. palustre, S. squarrosum, Polytrichum commune, Juncus effusus, Juncus acutiflorus}.

MANAGE:
The habitat management maps from English Nature refer to this common as  'heather that should be left unburnt'. Heather has been lost on either side of the common due to overgrazing and/or erosion with much invading bracken. Some path damage occurs which is of concern to the DNP.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Rabbit, Raven, Meadow Pipits, Stonechats, Buzzard, Small White butterfly, Small Heath butterfly, Tortoiseshell butterfly, micromoths on heath.

VEG:
Mostly dry {\it Ulex gallii} heath (NVC H4) with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} encroachment.  There is a small amount of {\it Ulex europaeus, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} in the C11 along the southwestern marginal area of the site (A22).  The vegetation types grade upslope from dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered scrub at the bottom, through D5 consisting of {\it Ulex gallii} dominated, impoverished H4 and U3, to well-characterised H4 on higher ground around the tors.  The main species over much of the site are {\it Ulex gallii, Agrostis curtisii, A. capillaris} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

In the dry dwarf shrub heath, {\it Ulex gallii} is often dominant in a somewhat impoverished H4 type vegetation, but between Easdon Tor and Easdon Hill, the H4 is much better characterised.  Other species present include: {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Agrostis curtisii, Galium saxatile, Carex binervis} and {\it Potentilla erecta}.  The dwarf shrubs dominate, forming a dense hummocky growth, through which graminoid species grow rather sparsely.  {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} occurs near the tors.

The acid grassland is mostly U3 or U4a.  Species include: {\it Agrostis capillaris} (often dominant), {\it Galium saxatile, Agrostis curtisii, Nardus stricta} (locally), {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.  Small areas approach U1 and U4b in character (especially at the southern tip of the common).  These areas are marked by {\it Rumex acetosella, Aira praecox, Achillea millefolium, Holcus lanatus, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochoeris radicata} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}.

The D5 is roughly equal mix of U3 and H4, with intermediates.  {\it Ulex gallii} dominates the heathy clumps and {\it Agrostis curtisii} dominates in the grassy areas between.  Other species include: {\it Agrostis capillaris, Potentilla erecta, Pteridium aquilinum, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}.

Intact drystone walls (J25) form the southern boundary, and in the region of the tors, there are boulders and rocky outcrops, on which {\it Sedum anglicum} is a common species.

NVC communities include: U1, U4, U3, H4 and U20.

MANAGE:
Contiguous to CL147 - no stock proof boundary between.  Cattle and sheep have access to both commons.  The condition of the ericoid dwarf shrubs appears good, some of the {\it Ulex gallii} is rather "leggy" in places.  However, there is only a small area with any abundance of the heather species.  Dwarf shrub height averages about 50cm.

In places, {\it Ulex gallii} is dominant forming a {\it Ulex gallii} 'scrub'-like sward.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is growing amongst this in most of these areas, although it may not be dominant.

Bracken appears to have engulfed {\it Ulex gallii} vegetation in much of the central part of the common.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Ravens, Carrion crow, Wheatear, Kestrel, Meadow Pipit, Buzzards.
Recorded: Red grouse, Dunlin, Snipe, Whinchat, Ring Ouzel, Golden Plover.

VEG:
The Blanket bog that covers most of the plateau is M17 in NVC terms. This includes {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Eriophorum angustifolium, Molinia caerulea, Trichophorum  cespitosum} and {\it Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera rotundifolia} in the wetter areas.The bog mosses such as {\it Sphagnum papillosum, S. auriculatum, S. capillifolium, S. magellanicum} can be found. The heather shows relatively little grazing damage.

The slopes have much acidic grassland with {\it Molinia caerulea, Nardus stricta, Festuca ovina}. In some areas this is in a mosaic with dry heath that includes {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} but over considerable areas {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is dominant. Bryophytes associated with this include {\it Pleurozium schreberi, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Rhacomitrum lanuginosum, Hylocomium splendens, Hypnum jutlandicum, Thuidium tamariscinum}. The lower slopes with a south-facing aspect have species-poor acidic grassland.

The slopes above the R. Erme have extensive {\it Pteridium aquilinum} invasion and in some areas U4a grassland {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} prevails. There is also marshy grassland with {\it Molinia} that is heavily grazed in some areas.

Flushes above the Erme valley have NVC communities M6a, M6c, and M23b,with species such as {\it Sphagnum recurvum, S. palustre, Polytrichum commune, Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus, Galium palustre, Potentilla erecta, Agrostis canina, Rumex acetosa, Viola palustris, Juncus bulbosus, Sphagnum papillosum, Carex panicea, C. echinata, Juncus squarrosus, Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum auriculatum, Erica tetralix.}

Areas of the wet dwarf shrub heath are of NVC M15 community with much {\it Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Trichophorum cespitosum}.

MANAGE:
Grazing is quite heavy on the grassy slopes with some poaching in valley bottoms. Erosion caused or aggravated by walkers may increase and needs monitoring. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} stands also need monitoring to at least ensure no further invasion.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Kestrel, Chaffinch, Great tit, Blue tit.
Butterflies: Red admiral, Speckled wood, Small tortoiseshell.

VEG:
Due to the impossibility and danger of access the site was surveyed on foot only on the eastern side. A vantage point was found to the north of the site to view the workings.

The least disturbed part of the site is the broadleaved woodland near Piall Bridge and mixed woodland near Gibhill Cottages. The latter area has {\it Fagus sylvatica, Pinus sylvestris, Quercus robur}. There is {\it Rhododendron ponticum} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in the understorey and good bryophyte growth such as {\it Polytrichum commune, Leucobryum glaucum, Rhytidiadelphus} sp. and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}.

The dry acid heath North of Gibb Park Wood includes {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, E. tetralix, Pteridium aquilinum, Ulex europaeus}. On the lower slopes {\it Ulex europaeus} is more dominant}.

The main part of the site is quarry or quarry spoil. Where possible, usually on ledges or old worked areas {\it Ulex} sp. and scrub trees including {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} have developed.

MANAGE:
Due to the difficulty of access to the quarry the site was surveyed on foot only on the East side.
The rest of the site was viewed from above from near Mumford Cottages. Clearly most of the site is bare ground and the main interest would be in the natural restoration of the steeper faces and the assisted restoration of the spoil heaps.
Plots were seen laid out near the centre of the site, presumably with different treatments applied. Acid grassland was establishing well and there were blocks of {\it Ulex} sp. well advanced. It might be suitable to try and establish heath on such sites.


FAUNA:
Stonechat, Meadow Pipit, Whites and Tortoiseshells, Carrion Crow, Rook.

VEG:
The higher ground supports dry heath and acid grassland, mosaics and intermediates.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} covers many of the slopes, and there is a sizeable area of valley mire, and small areas of woodland.  NVC communities include: H4, U3, U20, M6, M23, M25, M29 and M35.

D11 - Dry dwarf shrub heath has high frequencies of {\it Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Vaccinium myrtillus, Molinia caerulea} (sparse and non-tussocky) and {\it Agrostis curtisii}.  Physiognomically it is mainly dense hummocks of sub-shrubs to 0.33m in height.  {\it Ulex gallii} is generally dominant, but {\it Calluna vulgaris} is locally dominant, and {\it Erica cinerea} is frequent or abundant.  It is mostly H4.

B11 - Acid grassland species include {\it Agrostis curtisii, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Agrostis capillaris} and sparse {\it Molinia caerulea}.  It is probably mostly U3, although there are small areas of U1e or U4a on paths, roadsides, etc..  Other species occurring more locally include {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Danthonia decumbens, Carex pilulifera} and {\it Hypochoeris radicata}.  The U3 grades into H4 and also forms D5 mosaics with the heath.  In places, transitional, closely-grazed vegetation is dominated by {\it Agrostis curtisii} with {\it A. capillaris}, acid forbs and low, short, sparse growth of {\it Ulex gallii} and ericoids (H4/U3).  The D5 is mostly H4 in U3.  Some of the H4 is species-poor and dominated by {\it Ulex gallii}, with scattered {\it U. europaeus} bushes. 

I141 - Boulders protrude through the soil outcropping particularly in the heath and grassland, and giving some protection from grazing to dwarf shrubs, lichens and bryophytes.

C11 - Large expanses of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, usually associated with scattered scrub (A22) occupy most of the dry slopes.  {\it Ulex europaeus, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, Salix} sp. and {\it Betula} sp. all occur, though mostly the first 2 species.  {\it Rubus} agg. also occurs amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in places.

A111 and A121 - A small area of {\it Pinus sylvestris} and a small conifer plantation in the north of the CL by Blackslade Water was not investigated in detail.  In the south of the site is a small, secondary broadleaf wood of {\it Quercus} sp. {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, with a ground flora predominantly of ferns and {\it Hedera helix}.

E31, D2 and B5 - A wetland complex lies along the western border of the CL in the valley of Ruddycleave Water.  The stream is upland, oligotrophic and partially lined by Sallows.  NVC communities found in this complex include M6a, M6c, M23a, M23b, M25b, M29, M35 and on hummocks drier communities of U20, H4 and H4/M25b intermediates.  D2 areas contain species of marshy grassland and {\it Erica tetralix, Agrostis curtisii, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Molinia caerulea}.  Species present in the B5 areas are those of M23 and M25 in NVC terms and include {\it Molinia caerulea, Nardus stricta, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Juncus effusus, J. acutifloris, J. articulatus, J. bulbosus, Cirsium palustre, Lotus uliginosus, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Ranunculus flammula, Potentilla erecta, Succisa pratensis, Carex nigra, C. panicea} and anthills with ericoids and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} on.  Acid flushes are mainly composed of the wetter NVCs M6, M29 and M35 and are characterised by species such as {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Anagallis tenella, Hypericum elodes, Narthecium ossifragum, Viola palustris, Pedicularis palustris, Ranunculus flammula, Myosotis secunda/scorpioides, Ranunculus omiophyllus, Montia fontana, Sphagnum auriculatum, S. papillosum} as well as species also found in the B5 including {\it Molinia caerulea, Carex panicea, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Juncus bulbosus}.

The complex vegetation mosaic is therefore, a mix of M35 rills/springs, M29 soakaways, H4 on hummocks grading via a kind of 'wet-influenced' H4/M25 to M6a and M25b between hummocks, plus areas of M23, all draining into the Ruddycleave stream.  This is therefore, one of the most botanically-rich parts of the site.

MANAGE:
At the time of survey, the CL was being grazed by a small number of ponies and also sheep (which were concentrated in the Pudsham Down part of the CL).  Much of the D5 is heavily grazed.  There are considerable areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered scrub which could be invading parts of the dry heath.  Visitor pressure seems to be mostly concentrated around the parking areas and stream valleys.

Areas on Pudsham Down had recent burns, which were regenerating with U3 and H4 patches quite healthily.  There were also one or two small burns of D11 around GR 737747 area.{\it Ulex europaeus}) and {\it Rubus fruticosus} are a local problem on parts of Pudsham Down - these too are regenerating on some of the burnt areas.

Much of the heather on the main Buckland Common is healthy and the heath is in general good condition.  However, on Pudsham Down much is overgrazed, some severely so, with impoverishment of the H4 community leading to Ulex gallii} in a U3 ground matrix with a paucity of other dwarf shrubs.  'Carpet' growth form of ericoids occurs here, although the {\it U. gallii} is often quite mature.  {\it U. europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} are more frequent in such areas.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Chaffinch, Great Tit,
Buzzard.

VEG:
By the road a large pond is well shaded by {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Castanea sativa}. It contains {\it Iris pseudocorus, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Nasturtium officinale}. The common is 'framed' by shaded running streams.

The bulk of the common, which once must have been grazed, has become wooded with {\it Alnus glutinosa, Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} with some (planted?) {\it Picea sitchensis}.

The area is disturbed by dumping and storage of building materials, caravan etc and cars. Ruderal species such as {\it Potentilla anserina, Urtica dioica, Centaurea nigra, Plantago} sp. as well as {\it Geranium robertianum, Rumex acetosa} thrive.

MANAGE:
Some trees have been felled and logs piled up.
The wood hides some of the materials stored and/or dumped. At time of survey a Planning Permission notice for the caravan was evident at the entrance.


FAUNA:
Whinchat, Meadow Pipit and Stonechat were noted, but birdlife such as Buzzard, Snipe, Curlew, Wood Pigeon, Redstart and Chiffchaff found on nearby commons may also use the site.

Butterflies recorded include Small Heath and Green-veined White.  Adder and Red Deer were also noted.

VEG:
Dry heath dominated by medium aged {\it Calluna vulgaris} (c. 60 per cent cover) and {\it Erica cinerea} (c. 10 per cent cover) covers the upper slopes and southerly facing slopes of the hills.  This is joined by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Carex binervis}, with a higher cover of {\it V. myrtillus} on the north facing slopes.  On the plateau, the heath includes up to approximately 15 per cent cover of {\it Erica tetralix, Molina caerulea, Trichophorum cespitosum}, with lower plants {\it Cladonia impexa, C. uncialis} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}.  The absence of {\it Sphagnum} spp. and absence of peaty soil keeps this community under the dry heath category in Phase 1 terms.  However, where {\it Molinia caerulea} becomes dominant, with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} frequent and a shallow layer of peat present on the hill plateaux, it has been classified as wet heath (NVC category M15d).  The absence of {\it Sphagnum} is likely the result of burning.  The largest area of this wet heath can be found on the eastern hill plateau, around the car park.

Occasional areas of alongside the road have been trampled and heavily grazed to acid grassland vegetation.  The carpet heather along these slopes also shows signs of heavy grazing, a problem covering approximately 20 per cent  of the common's area.  Scattered {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Betula} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus} are invading the open areas from the common's periphery.  On the lower, north facing slopes, {\it Molinia caerulea} becomes dominant, with a loss of heath vegetation.  Characteristic of NVC M25a, the vegetation is species-poor with {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Sphagnum palustre}.  Between these depressions of marshy grassland are large areas of scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} over acid grassland, and with locally abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

Two steep sided valleys face the northern boundary of the site.  The eastern of the two is vegetated with {\it Quercus robur, Betula pubescens} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered saplings along its banks.  The second valley is also characterised by scattered {\it Quercus robur, Betula pubescens} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, but {\it Crataegus monogyna} is the dominant scrub species.  The valley floor consists of acid flush vegetation (NVC M6cii) of {\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum auriculatum, S. palustre, Polytrichum commune} and {\it Viola palustris}.  This is joined in parts by species such as {\it Blechnum spicant, Cirsium palustre, Potentilla erecta, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}, changing the community to a drier M23b.  Higher ground adjacent to the flush supports {\it Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina, Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Rumex acetosa}.  The presence of {\it Rumex acetosa} and acid grassland species indicate this sheltered area is preferred by grazing cattle, who both trample and enrich the vegetation.  This is confirmed by the presence of {\it Sphagnum auriculatum} in the acid flush, a more base-loving {\it Sphagnum} species.  The western bank and adjacent north-facing slope are covered by a mosaic of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with few associated species, scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub, and small areas of {\it Molinia caerulea} marshy grassland and knolls of dry heath.

The bottom of the northern slope is edged by a river lined with {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, B. pubescens, Alnus glutinosa, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ulex europaeus}.  They occasionally spread to form woodland with a species-poor ground flora including {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Molinia caerulea} an much leaf litter.  The river itself is rocky, shallow in places, with banks of {\it Agrostis capillaris - Festuca ovina} acid grassland (NVC U4a), marshy grassland (M23b) and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} along its banks.

MANAGE:
The site is grazed by Exmoor ponies, cattle and deer.  Areas of heather may also have been burnt at one time.  Much of the heather has been over-grazed or subjected to physical damage.  This is especially evident in sheltered areas, such as valleys, along the south facing slopes, along paths and in areas subject to winter feeding with brought in fodder, where vegetation has changed to acid grassland.

Fires have also damaged the areas of wet heath causing a loss of {\it Sphagnum} species.  The high proportion of {\it Molinia caerulea} in the heath and the presence of M25 vegetation probably also stem from this activity.


FAUNA:
Only crows and pipits seen - torrential downpour during brief field survey.

VEG:
Brief field survey during torrential weather. The western sides of the common support acidic and marshy grasslands which are species poor and well grazed. Species present include {\it Molinia caerulea, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile} and fine-leaved grasses. Heath communities predominate the further east one goes with H12c on the side overlooking Hoaroak Water. This includes {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Vaccinium myrtillus, Pteridium aquilinum, Agrostis canina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Pedicularis sylvatica, Dicranum scoparium, Hypnum cupressiforme, Pleurozium schreberi}.

Mire communities near the highest areas of the common include communities such as M2a and M15b with species including {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Eriophorum angustifolium, Eriophorum vaginatum, Juncus squarrosus, Molinia caerulea, Polytrichum commune}.

MANAGE:
Grazed by ponies and sheep. Heather sparse on western side.


FAUNA:
Rook, Raven, Meadow Pipit, Stonechat, Foxmoth Caterpillar.
(Breeding birds on the South Central Dartmoor SSSI, of which CL 153 forms a large part, including Red Grouse, Ring Ouzel, Golden Plover and Whinchat.  Buzzard, Kestrel, Peregrine, Snipe and Wheatear also occur).

In the Dart Woodlands: Willow Warbler, Badger, Fox, Mink, Mole, Rabbit, Water Shrew, Adder, Frog, Common Lizard, Pied Flycatcher, Wood Warbler, Wood Pigeon, Tawny Owl, Sparrowhawk, Cuckoo, Swift, Swallow, Skylark.

VEG:
The 1988 DNP vegetation maps indicate the following habitats: Acid Bent-Fescue grassland with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (B11/C11); Acid Bent-Fescue grassland (B11); bristle {\it Agrostis} grassland (B11) with Gorse (probably a mixture of D5 where the Gorse is {\it Ulex gallii}, and A21 or A22 where it is {\it Ulex europaeus}); {\it Molinia} grassland (probably mostly B5); moist western heath (probably H4 in NVC, D11 in phase 1); moist heather moor (probably H10/H12 in NVC, D11 in phase 1 or possibly D11/D2); blanket bog (E1); valley bog (E31); and gorse (A22 or A21).

The categories do not directly correspond to Phase 1 habitats - particularly the moist heath/wet heath split between D11 and D2.  From the 1987 NVC survey it is apparent that the main heathland communities are H4 (D11 in Phase 1, moist western heath on the 1988 DNP map) and H10a/H12 (also D11 in Phase 1, probably the area mapped as 'moist heather moor' on the DNP map).  The Phase 1 habitats have been deduced from a combination of these information sources.

Ground truthing in the east of the CL and along the roadsides, showed much of the area mapped as H4 on the NVC survey, to be D11 dominated largely by {\it Ulex gallii}.  The main dwarf shrub heath community in the north and eastern parts of the site is NVC community H4.  The {\it U. gallii} is often co-dominant wth {\it Agrostis curtisii} and in places the heath is so 'grassy' as to be nearer a 'D11/B11' transitional habitat type.  {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} are also frequent/abundant, with {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Erica tetralix} only locally frequent/abundant. (Where the last two species are abundant are probably the areas referred to as 'moist heath' on the DNP 1988 map, but in Phase 1 H4 is normally mapped as D11). Holne Moor supports some well-characterised good stands of H4.

In places the {\it Ulex gallii} is tall and 'leggy' and is the main sub-shrub, with low cover of heather species.  In other places, it forms shorter, denser hummocks, and there are more of the ericoid species, especially {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea}.  {\it Agrostis curtisii} grows densely between the dwarf shrubs in patches, though the patches are not really large enough to merit 'D5' mosaic status, it is rather a 'grass-heath' vegetation type.  On Holne Moor, the H4 grades into dry {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath with increased altitude.

In the western half of the CL, most of the heath falls between NVC communities H12/H10a.  The principal species present in these communities are: {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Carex binervis} in H10a; and in H12 constant species are {\it Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium myrtillus, Dicranum scoparium, Hypnum jutlandicum} and {\it Pleurozium schreberi}.  {\it Calluna vulgaris} is generally the dominant species in both communities.  {\it Erica cinerea} is infrequent in H12, {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is infrequent in H10.  The vegetation on Holne Moor is intermediate since the characteristic H12 hypnoid mosses are deficient, {\it Erica cinerea} is sparse and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is more widely distributed through the heath.  {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Agrostis canina} are frequent.  The former is more characteristic of H12.  {\it Carex binervis} is also frequent in the vegetation of Holne Moor, and is more indicative of H10.

Granite tors (I141) support species such as {\it Umbilicus rupestris, Sedum anglicum, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Polypodium vulgare}.  Bench Tor in the NE of the CL is important for the lichen {\it Umbilicaria rupestris}.

Acid grassland (B11) is mainly NVC communities U4a (bent-fescue grassland) and U3 (Bristle Agrostis grassland).  Some U5 (Nardus grassland) occurs in small areas, and U4e Nardus sub-community.  Species present in the U4a include: {\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile, Danthonia decumbens, Potentilla erecta, Pleurozium schreberi} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}.  Many of the same species are also present in the U4e/U5, but {\it Nardus stricta} is also frequent/abundant.  The U3 is marked by additional species, especially abundant {\it Agrostis curtisii}, frequent tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} at low cover, and {\it Carex binervis}.  The U4a generally covers the better-drained slopes of stream valleys, whereas the U3 is generally on higher ground and grades into the H4 heath.

Acid grassland - dry heath mosaics (D5) occur - usually a mixture of U3 and H4 plus B11/D11 transitions between the two (U3/H4).

Continuous bracken (C11) is extensive on the lower slopes above the Dart Valley Woods, in the combes, stream valley sides and on Holne Moor itself.  It falls into NVC community U20.  Much is the grassy {\it Anthoxanthum} sub-community (U20b), but the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus - Dicranum scoparium} sub-community (U20a) also occurs.  The {\it Pteridium aquilinum} understorey is generally rather species-poor in forbs.

Mosaics of D11, B11, C11 and A21 are common in the eastern half of the site, especially near the road and in overgrazed areas.  {\it Ulex europaeus} is the principal scrub species and encroaches the heath sometimes forming tall, dense stands.

Wetter habitat types include areas of marshy grassland, B5, which mostly comprises {\it Molinia} grassland of NVC community M25b.  {\it Molinia caerulea} dominate the sward in a slightly tussocky grazed-down form.  It is generally species-poor and gives way uphill on less steep ground to blanket bog.

The blanket bog (E16/17) consists of NVC type M17 on deep peat on the plateaux in the western half of the CL at around 450m.  {\it Sphagna} have been reduced in some areas by past fires, so some of the bog is modified, although the peat surface is intact.  {\it Molinia} and {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} are abundant, with {\it Drosera rotundifolia} and {\it Narthecium ossifragum} occurring in the wetter watersheds.  NVC M2 and M3 bogpools also occur supporting species such as {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. recurvum and Eriophorum angustifolium}.

Small valley mires and acid flushes are associated with some of the streams and include NVC communities M6ci, M25b and M15a/b.  Species present include {\it Carices, Juncus effusus, Sphagnum auriculatum, S. recurvum, Galium palustre, Drosera rotundifolia, Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Viola palustris}.  The M15a/b areas are D2, wet heath, in phase 1 habitat terms, with frequent-abundant {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Erica tetralix} at low cover and locally, {\it Carex panicea} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}.

South of the River Dart, which forms the northern site boundary, lies part of the Dart Valley Woodlands.  Mixed Pendunculate and Sessile Oakwoods occur, with {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Betula} sp. {\it Rubus fruticosus, Hedera helix, Lonicera periclymenum} in the understorey, and {\it Oxalis acetosella, Vaccinium myrtillus, Digitalis purpurea, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina} on the ground layer.  Most of the boundary slopes support this vegetation, and here {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pubescens} are common.

On river banks, alluvial terrace and bouldery flats between Combestone Island and Luckey Tor, {\it Salix atrocinerea, Alnus glutinosa, Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Frangula alnus} and {\it Ulex europaeus} all occur.

G2 river banks and flood channels along the Dart support: {\it Molinia caerulea, Juncus bulbosus, Deschampsia cespitosa, D. flexuosa, Dactylis glomerata, Ulex gallii, U. europaeus}, occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Polygonum hydropiper, Valeriana officinale, Viola palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex ovalis, Thelypteris oleopteris, Athyrium felix-femina} and {\it Blechnum spicant}.

Alluvial terraces, in addition to woodland, also support {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and U4a grassland with {\it Agrostis} spp., {\it Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Galium saxatile, Achillea millefolium, Leontodon autumnlis, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Potentilla anserina}, amongst the species occurring there.

Streams and leats support a variety of species in narrow bands along their banks, somewhat out of reach of grazing.  Species include {\it Ranunculus omiophyllus, R. flammula, Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, J. bulbosus, J. bufonius, Wahlenbergia hederacea, Pedicularis sylvaticus, Drosera rotundifolia, Narthecium ossifragum, Viola palustris, Eriophorum angustifolium, Blechnum spicant, Sphagnum palustre, S. auriculatum, S. cuspidatum} and {\it Polytrichum commune}.  The leats are man-made channels approximately 0.5-1m wide and 0.5m deep with a gravelly or silty bottom and species characteristic of oligotrophic upland waterways.

J5 habitats consist of a minor road and a number of car parks (one in an old quarry) that are mostly of acid grassland vegetation.  The roadsides tend to be lined with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and/or scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep, cattle and ponies, with cattle more numerous than in north Dartmoor.  The cattle make extensive use of the {\it Molinia} communities and bogs, the sheep seem to concentrate on the drier areas, and the acid grassland is often extremely closely grazed (so much so that even the {\it Ulex europaeus} is sometimes grazed down to a few centimeters in height).  The area is intensively used with high sheep and cattle stocking rates.  Management by burning the heath, {\it Molinia} grasslands and bogs is frequent.

{\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex europaeus} encroachment is considerable, especially onto B11 and D11 habitats.

A 1994 heather utilisation survey of Holne Moor by the DNP showed that extensive areas of the heath, in particular the areas of H4 in the northern and SE half of the CL are currently overgrazed, and previously were chronically heavily grazed.

The E1 and B5 areas have been less heavily grazed and are currently not overgrazed, although burning has floristically modified the blanket bog and the marshy {\it Molinia} grassland and wet heath (D2) are relatively non-tussocky as a result of cattle grazing.

Heavy burning and grazing of the H4 heath (D11) leads to development of U3 grassland (B11) and accounts for the 'grassy' nature with {\it U. gallii} dominance of sizeable tracts of H4.  Around Venford Reservoir in particular, grazing and burning may have reduced dwarf shrub cover and encouraged {\it Agrostis curtisii, Molinia caerluea} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The Dartmoor National Park has sprayed the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in the past.


VEG:
Access was limited to this common. Most was viewed from adjacent roads.
Most of the common is rough grazing with at least 3 horse paddocks and some cattle-grazing land alongside the River Whitewater. Rank grasses present include {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis} sp. and substantial {\it Urtica dioica, Rumex acetosa, Achillea millefolium}.

Holt Copse is {\it Quercus robur} woodland with understorey trees such as {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Coryllus avellana, Salix} sp. {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

The banks of the River Whitewater support {\it Glyceria maxima, Filipendula ulmaria, Heracleum sphondylium, Phalaris arundinacea, Epilobium hirsutum, Mentha aquatica}.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Green woodpecker, Moorhen, Thrush, Wren.

Moles, Grey squirrel.

VEG:
The areas of rough acidic/neutral grassland on Wickham Common include species such as {\it Plantago major, Plantago lanceolata, Holcus lanatus, Hypochoeris radicata, Centurea nigra, Cerastium fontanum, Dactylis glomerata, Achillea millefolium, Rumex acetosella, Trifolium repens, Lolium perenne, Heracleum sphondylium, Vicia cracca}.

Woodland areas of the Common include the northern quarter of the site which has {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula} sp. with {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum}. Both SW and SE corners of the common also have such woodland. Other small areas, either adjacent to woodland or as islands within the grassland have scrub of either pure {\it Ulex europaeus} or mixed {\it U. europaeus/Betula/ Sambucus nigra}.

A pond on the eastern side has substantial {\it Typha latifolia} and is edged with {\it Salix cinerea/ Spirea} (garden escape). 

Under power lines coppicing has encouraged {\it P. aquilinum} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
Managed for recreation. Coppicing under power lines. Pond needs clearance.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Green Woodpecker, Crows, Magpie.

VEG:
The western section of this common is well-established {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. Understorey species include {\it Acer campestre, Coryllus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} with ground flora of {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Mercuralis perennis, Rubus fruticosus, Lonicera periclymenum, Euphorbia helioscopia, Melica uniflora, Circaea lutetiana}. Several areas of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} regeneration. Near Great Rye Farm the {\it Quercus} woodland also contains {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with understorey of {\it Coryllus avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus}. The wetter northern edge (S. of Brown's Row) has much {\it Salix x chrysocoma} and {\it Phragmites australis}. The area north of Rye Common Lodge is {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Q. cerris} woodland.

The largest section of the common was only viewed from the road but appeared to be well-developed broadleaved woodland with substantial {\it Quercus} sp. {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Coryllus avellana } understorey. Large patches of {\it Mercuralis perennis} evident. 

The long thin section of CL194 near Broad Oak is mostly {\it Quercus} woodland. Around Park Hall Copse the oak includes {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} with ground flora species such as {\it Prunella vulgaris, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Ranunculus flammula, Lycopus europaeus, Myosotis} sp. Further North {\it Fagus sylvatica} predominates with {\it Ilex aquifolium} understorey with {\it Mercuralis perennis}.

MANAGE:
Little evident management other than the cutting back of trees under power lines.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Bullfinch, Crows, Jay, Chiffchaff.

VEG:
Most of this common is woodland with {\it Betula pendula, Pinus sylvestris} with understorey of {\it Betula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The ground flora includes much {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} with {\it Galium saxatile, Deschampsia flexuosa} and some small areas of {\it Calluna vulgaris}. The northern corner of the wood has a more varied woodland with {\it Pinus sylvestris, Castanea sativa, Quercus robur, Betula pendula}, understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus sucuparia} and ground flora that includes {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum, Digitalis purpurea, Teucrium scorodonia, Rubus fruticosus}. There is good bryophyte growth on old logs ({\it Mnium hornum, Hypnum cupressiforme}).

MANAGE:
Managed as part of the Ludshott SSSI for sustainable woodland with provision for recreation.


VEG:
All of this common is amenity grassland/
recreation ground with some amenity trees and shrubs. There is a pavilion and a play area.


VEG:
All amenity grassland. The common has planted {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Betula} sp. all round the edge.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Crow, Greater-spotted woodpecker, Great Tit, Blackbird.

VEG:
The main body of this common is woodland of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Quercus robur}. Along the road on the northeast side is large {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with understorey trees such as {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra}. {\it Mercuralis perennis} is evident in large patches by this road. {\it Polygonatum multiflorum} is found in woodland near the road on the SE side.

The northernmost part of the common has substantial {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (and dumped concrete).

An area of acid grassland is found near the centre of the common and accessible from the SE side. This includes species such as {\it Rumex} sp. {\it Dactylis glomerata, Stellaria graminea, Trifolium pratense, Cirsium} sp. {\it Urtica dioica, Centaurea nigra, Veronica} sp. {\it Holcus lanatus}. Scrub {\it Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} is also present. The southern corner of the common includes {\it C. monogyna, Corylus avellana} with acid grassland.

MANAGE:
No evident woodland management. Grassland grazed at low level.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Wood pigeon, Great tits, Thrush.

VEG:
Woodland makes up the section north of Manor Cottage including {\it Q. robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus glutinosa, Viburnum opulus, Euonymus europaeus, Taxus baccata} with open patches of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Mercuralis perennis, Circaea lutetiana, Ruscus aculeatus, Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Melica uniflora, Iris pseudocorus}.


VEG:
The road verge on the NE facing side supports {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium} sp. {\it Urtica dioica, Arrhenatherum elatius, Lonicera periclymenum, Achillea millefolium, Convolvulus} sp. This is backed by {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedge. In some areas the grassland (unmown) becomes tall  and includes ruderal species ({\it Urtica dioica}. The SW side of the road has standards of {\it Q.robur} (some quite old) and some {\it C. monogyna} hedge over verge grasses and species such as {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium}.


FAUNA:
Chaffinches, Wood pigeon, Great Tit, Blue Tit.

VEG:
This common is made up of scrub, woods, verge grasses alongside an old trackway. At the eastern end the trackway is edged with trees and scrub of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Euonymus europaeus, Coryllus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa}, with ground flora of {\it Rubus fruticosus, Alliaria petiolata, Taxacorum, Hedera helix, Lamium album, Galium aparine, Myosotis} sp. {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Mercuralis perennis, Geranium robertianum, Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum, Glechoma hederacea, Viola sp.}. There are one or two {\it Taxus baccata}. Further westwards the edges of the track become purer {\it C. monogyna, Prunus spinosa}. Some scrub has been cleared about half way along the track. Power lines near the eastern end have caused some scrub to be cleared. Occasional trees include {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Malus domestica}. Some bee hives on small patch of grassland near west end.

A triangle of woodland on the W side of Woodman Lane has substantial {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with ground flora of {\it Hedera helix, Mercuralis perennis, Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
The trackway is kept open by regular use, a very pleasant walk on a sunny afternoon. There is some scrub management.


VEG:
The northern edge of the common has {\it Quercus robur/Fraxinus excelsior} woodland with ground flora species such as {\it Aegopodium podograria, Urtica dioica, Centaurea nigra, Hypericum perfoliata, Achillea millefolium, Scrophularia nodosa, Calamintha ascendens}. The grassland to the south of this may have been improved in the past. Species present include {\it Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Plantago major, Capsella bursa-pastoris}. More calcicolous species such as {\it Poterium sanguisorba, Agrimonia eupatoria, Prunella vulgaris, Galium verum} are found to the western end of this area.
A planted 'island' within this grassland area supports {\it Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} and a few exotic species planted in metal protectors.

Improved grassland is found on the western side of the minor road near Caroline Cottage. 

The eastern section of the common, north of Wood Farm Cottages is also grassland with a wide variety of species such as {\it Galium verum, Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Trifolium repens, Agrostis} spp. {\it Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris, Hypericum} sp. {\it Dactylis glomerata, Hypochoeris radicata, Pimpinella saxifraga, Knautia arvensis, Campanula rotundifolia, Odontites verna}. The islands of woodland here are {\it Quercus robur} with {\it Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus, Crataegus monogyna, Cornus sanguinea}.

MANAGE:
Most recent tree-planting seems successful, though aftercare essential.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Blackbird, Robin, Chiffchaff, Canada Geese.

Butterflies: Small Copper.

VEG:
The northwesternmost section of this common is amenity grassland divided by {\it Quercus robur} woodland with little understorey but ground flora of {\it Hedera helix, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica}. Opposite the end of Moulsham Lane is a drain with {\it Oenanthe crocata, Rorippa} sp. The area adjacent to Vicarage Rd has {\it Q. robur} woodland with substantial {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Salix, Populus tremula, Castanea sativa}. An old pond is fairly dry but contains some {\it Glyceria fluitans, Ranunculus flammula, Lemna minor, Typha latifolia}.

North of Vicarage Rd. is also {\it Q.robur} wood with understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Carpinus betulus, Acer pseudoplatanus, Salix, Populus tremula} with some {\it Tilia} sp. pollards by Chandlers Lane. A pond in the thin northern section supports {\it Typha latifolia, Nymphea alba, Lemna minor, Iris pseudocorus, Glyceria fluitans, Glyceria maxima, Potamogeton polygonifolius}, and is edged by scrub {\it Salix, Quercus, Rubus} and {\it Spirea} sp. (garden escape).

Much of the section south of the Reading Road is amenity grassland except for areas west of Hall Lane which are {\it Quercus robur} woodland.

The section west of 'The Link' has acid grassland that includes {\it Rumex acetosella, Deschampsia flexuosa, Agrostis} sp. {\it Hypochoeris radicata, Lolium perenne} and some {\it Ulex europaeus}. The rest of this area is {\it Quercus/Betula} woodland (northern side) or amenity grassland and planted trees (to the south).

MANAGE:
Amenity areas mown. Ponds in need of maintenance.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Thrush, Wood pigeon.

VEG:
The southern part of this common has woodland of {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur, Pinus sylvestris} with understorey of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Fraxinus excelsior} and ground flora of {\it Rubus fruticosus, P. aquilinum, Digitalis purpurea, Cirsium} sp. {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. There are some areas of solid {\it P. aquilinum}.

The Cemetery has amenity grassland but some areas of heath species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Erica cinerea}. There are also planted native and exotic conifers.


FAUNA:
Some species recorded: Mallard, Mute Swan, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Moorhen, Lapwing, Woodcock, Wood Pigeon, Tawny Owl, Kingfisher, Green Woodpecker, Great-spotted woodpecker, Carrion Crow, Rook, Jackdaw, Magpie, Jay, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Coal Tit, Marsh Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Wren, Mistle Thrush, Redwing, Blackbird, Robin, Goldcrest, Meadow Pipit, Greenfinch, Linnet, Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Wood warbler.

Seen during survey: Mallards, Moorhen, Magpie.
Blue damselflies, Red damselflies, Peacock.

Grass snakes recorded.

Nationally rare Diptera recorded include {\it Xylota abiens, Callicera aenea, Manota unifurcata, Stratiomys potamida}. Rare Hymenoptera include {\it Macropis europaea, Cleptes nitidulus, Echemnius ruficornis} and the notable beetle {\it Phyllobrotica quadrimaculata}.

VEG:
The former wood pasture of Odiham Common was at one time a royal hunting ground. Mature {\it Quercus robur} standards and pollards are now mostly removed. Some of the site is marked on the Ancient Woodland register of Hampshire.

The main {\it Quercus robur} woodland area has understorey of {\it Coryllus avellana} (NVC W10) and an impoverished ground flora with mainly patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Digitalis purpurea, Dryopteris filix-mas, Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Molinia caerulea} in the damper areas. Small areas of NVC W9 {\it Coryllus/Betula} woodland occur near the centre of the common and one area on the SE edge.

Wilk's Water in the SE of the Common is thought to be man-made but supports a wide range of species of dragonflies and plant species such as {\it Nymphea alba, Glyceria maxima, Glyceria fluitans, Typha latifolia, Filipendula ulmaria, Hercleum sphondylium, Plantago alisma-aquatica, Mentha aquatica, Epilobium hirsutum, Myosotis} sp. {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Oenanthe crocata, Angelica sylvestris, Iris pseudocorus, Lycopus europaeus}.

Under the power lines that lie across the NE side of the Common ( where trees and scrub have been coppiced), heath species are reappearing such as {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Holcus lanatus, Juncus effusus, Juncus acutiflorus, Luzula campestris, Hypericum} sp. {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Ranunculus flammula}.

The unimproved neutral grassland in the SW part of the common supports species such as {\it Agrostis} spp. {\it Alepocurus pratensis, Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Phleum pratense, Deschampsia cespitosa, Carex hirta, Carex nigra, Carex otrubae, Carex hostiana, Carex ovalis, Rhinanthus minor, Anagallis tenella, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Silaum silaus, Achillea ptarmica, Senecio erucifolius, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Stachys officinale, Geum rivale}. This area is still well grazed.

MANAGE:
Small areas of active coppice remain, but the most radical management of recent times has been the cutting of wood and scrub from under power lines which has lead to the redevelopment of grassy heath. It has been suggested as a site for the restoration of wood pasture.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Wren, Willow warbler, Wood pigeons, Mallards.

VEG:
The southern section of this common is mostly former pasture woodland. East of the B3016 lies {\it Quercus robur, Carpinus betulus} wood with some pollards and understorey of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium}. Ground flora by paths includes {\it Sanicula europaea, Rubus fruticosus, Carex pendula, Rumex acetosa, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Circaea lutetiana, Stachys sylvatica}. An area of {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Ilex aquifolium} and little ground flora is found near the old pond site in the SE corner. The narrow length of common towards Dilly Lane has large {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Prunus} sp. and {\it Corylus avellana}.

The triangle of wooded common nearer to Ashley Lodge has {\it Q.robur, F. excelsior, Betula pendula} with understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Corylus avellana} with {\it R. fruticosus} as the main ground flora species.

The section of the common immediatley north of Dilly Lane supports more {\it Q. robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Betula} wood with one or two old {\it Fagus sylvatica}. Records show a small area of heath grasses {\it D. flexuosa, Molinia caerulea} towards the northern edge.

The woods extend northwards on the W side of the village by Grange Road. They are mostly {\it Q. robur} and {\it C. betulus} which is occasionally large and regenerating fast. There are other occasional species in this area such as {\it Ulmus procera} suckers, {\it Tilia} sp. {\it S. nigra, Salix cinerea, Cytisus scoparius}.

Northern parts of this common have woodland trees over grass. A large area south of the High St. has regularly spaced {\it Quercus} (The Trafalgar Oaks) and some new planted trees. Other areas are mown amenity grasslands or acidic grasslands with species such as {\it D. flexuosa, Melampyrum pratense} by parkland {\it Quercus, Dactylis glomerata, Rumex acetosella, Ranunculus} sp. {\it Phleum pratense, Lolium perenne, Plantago major}.The NE extremity of the common has  a ducks/geese pond.

Immediatley NE of the regularly spaced {\it Quercus} area lies an area of mixed acid grassland ({\it Festuca rubra, Luzula campestris, Agrostis} sp. with some heath species {\it Calluna vulgaris} and some improved grassland.
Small drains support {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata}.

A small duck pond by the High St. is edged by {\it Salix x chrysocoma} and there are several {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} nearby on amenity grassland. 

Hampshire Wildlife Trust records include a list of over 120 plant species from this common including {\it Asplenium scolopendrium, Carex remota, Carex sylvatica, Epipactis helleborine, Festuca gigantea, Hypericum pulchrum, Sanicula europaea, Potentilla sterilis, Polygonatum multiflorum, Serratula tinctoria, Viburnum opulus, Bromus ramosus}.

MANAGE:
This common is managed mostly for amenity and recreation. Old Pollards and ponds need restoration and/or management.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Crows, Thrush.

VEG:
Most of this common is recreation ground of amenity grassland with associated car park and play equipment. The northern end of the common has allotments. The area has some scrub {\it C. monogyna, Quercus robur} and acidic grass at the edges. There are a few planted trees such as {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Betula} sp.

MANAGE:
Managed for amenity, recreation, and allotments.


FAUNA:
Recorded: Nightjar, Woodlark, Dartford Warbler, Stonechat, Tree Pipit, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Green Woodpecker.

The SSSI citation records 25 species of rare or nationally notable Hymenoptera from Kingsley and Broxhead SSSI. Butterflies: Grayling, Silver-studded Blue (nationally scarce).

Seen during survey: Yellowhammer, Swallow, Magpie.

VEG:
Much of Kingsley Common is dry heath. The heath is largely {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} with {\it D. flexuosa, Festuca ovina} with much bare ground and terricolous lichens (25 species).
Scrub, woodland and {\it P. aquilinum} have invaded the Common substantially. Along the northern edge {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Salix cinerea} scrub with {\it Ulex europaeus} is found. This grades into {\it Quercus} sp. {\it Betula, Pinus sylvestris} woodland near Old Park Farm.

Acid grassland areas are found on the northernmost part of the site with {\it Rumex acetosella} and frequent bryophytes. 

The long 'arm' of the common on the eastern side is mostly {\it Quercus robur, Betula} wood with some {\it Ulex europaeus, Sorbus aucuparia, Pinus sylvestris}. Under power lines the wood is cut back and {\it P. aquilinum} has become substantial. {\it Quercus} woodland is found along the southern side of the common.

Kingsley pond lies on the western side marked 'Private Fishing'. It contains native and exotic lilies, {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Glyceria maxima}.

MANAGE:
Wood/scrub cut back under power lines. Unknown level of use by MoD. Ponds managed for fishing and amenity. Scrub and bracken control needed.


FAUNA:
From records: 

'Important numbers of breeding Redshank, Lapwing, Snipe, Sedge warblers'. Reed warblers, Grasshopper Warblers.

Butterflies: Brown Argus, Chalkhill Blue, Dark-green Fritillary, Marbled White, Purple Hairstreak, Grizzled Skipper, Speckled Wood, Wall Brown, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Ringlet, Small Heath, Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral, Holly Blue, Small Copper, Green Hairstreak, Small White, Green-veined white, Brimstone, Small Skipper.

Orthoptera: Field Grasshoper, Meadow Grasshopper, Common Green Grasshopper

VEG:
The southern and northern edges of the common support scrub with some standards.

The main part of the common is flood plain marsh, fen, unimproved marshy meadow and sallow carr. The common demonstrates the great variation in species and plant community induced by small changes in soil chemistry, past management, topography and drainage. The flood plain is the most botanically diverse feature with dwarf sedge communities and species such as {\it Carex nigra, Carex panicea, Carex demissa, Carex pulicaris, Carex echinata} and flowering plants such as {\it  Anagallis tenella, Succisa pratensis, Polygala vulgaris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, geum rivale, Mentha aquatica, Caltha palustris, Menyanthes trifoliata, Lychnis flos-cuculi}. The marshes support  base-rich  communities but where peat has been deposited base-poor communities have developed that include {\it Carex paniculata, Lysimachia vulgaris, Eupatoria cannibinum, Thalictrum flavum, Stellaria alsine, Phragmites australis.}

The higher land has calcareous loam soils with {\it Festuca} sp. and {\it Agrostis} spp. and species such as {\it Cirsium acaule, Primula veris, Asperula cynanchica}. Archaeological features such as the parallel raised banks have drier calcareous grassland species such as {\it Thymus drucei, Linum catharticum, Scabiosa columbaria, Galium verum, Hippocrepis comosa}.

At least 265 species are noted from this common including notable species such as {\it Triglochin palustris, Anagallis tenella, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, D. incarnata, Blysmus compressus, Eleocharis uniglumis, Catabrosa aquatica, Trifolium fragiferum}. Over 60 species are noted which 'seldom occur outside unimproved grasslands, or are indicative of a long period of uninterrupted grassland management without fertiliers or herbicides'.

For detailed assessment of the vegetation of Chilbolton Common English Nature's files need to be consulted. However the broad communities present include:

Short River Floodplain Marsh, Tall river Flood plain marsh, Fen (small area), Dry calcareous loam grassland, Dry Meadow, River and its margins, Wood/scrub edge.

Rare species include: {\it Blymus compressus, Eleocharis uniglumis, Carex hostiana, Carex pulicaris, Carex disticha, Catabrosa aquatica, Triglochin palustris, Anagallis tenella, Thalictrum flavum, Trifolium fragiferum, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, D. incarnata}.

MANAGE:
Areas of low intensity grazing would allow flowering plants to seed and provide nectar for insects. River banks are mown for fishermen.

Management recommendations from Hampshire FWAG in report to Parish Council:
1	The common should be treated as one unit for management purposes.

2	No agricultural improvements to the Common.

3	Continued grazing for 40 stock through summer season.

4	A management agreement should be agreed.

5	Control of Ragwort and Thistles.

6	Dogs to be kept on leads to minimise bird disturbance.

7	Continued liaison with English Nature and other concerned bodies.


VEG:
South of the A3 Portsmouth Rd., Bramshott Common is largely secondary woodland of {\it Betula pendula, Salix cinerea, Quercus robur}. Remnants of heath are found but are threatened by scrub/woodland invasion. Planted {\it Acer} line the main road. The southern flanks of this section of the common have substantial {\it Pteridium aquilinum} as ground flora to {\it Quercus/Betula} woodland.

The disused camp site of the section north of the A3 includes a car park {with planted memorial Canadian maples} and a playing field that has large {\it Pinus sylvatica} and some {\it Quercus robur} which are isolated with little understorey and regenerating {\it Betula, Ulex europaeus, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa}. The disturbed ground flora includes patches of {\it Urtica dioica, Hypericum tetrapterum, Senecio jacobea, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus, Plantago lanceolata, Veronica} sp. {\it Prunella vulgaris, Geranium molle, Centaurium erythrea}.
Dry heath is found in large areas adjacent to Bramshott Chase.

Mature {\it Quercus/Pinus} woodland is found in the northern parts of the common with substantial developing scrub/woodland and {\it P. aquilinum} in other parts.

MANAGE:
Dry heath in southern and northern sections of the common need protection from scrub encroachment.


VEG:
The southernmost section of this common, near Langley, is {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula} woodland with understorey of {\it Betula} sp. {\it Corylus avellana, Populus tremula, Sambucus nigra, Salix} sp. and a ground flora that is substantially {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica}. Under power lines near here the woodland is cut back. A small section in this area is scrub {\it Betula} sp., {\it Corylus avellana} with old orchard trees. An old {\it Taxus baccata} evident on banks (also dogs' graveyard). Woodland further towards Hilly Fields Copse has some {\it Pinus sylvestris} specimens within {\it Betula} woodland. 

The field opposite is rough grazing with much {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and patches of {\it Juncus} sp. where wetter. 

The trackway that passes from Langley towards the NE has common verge grasses and flowers and, in some areas, trees have been planted in tree tubes.

The main part of the common is made up of several large fields to which there was no access. They all had poor acidic grassland with large stands of {\it Ulex europaeus} in some areas.

MANAGE:
Mostly rough grazing. Woodlands have little active management. Some tree planting by trackway.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Red-legged Partridges, Skylark, Magpie, Pied Wagtail, Green woodpecker. 

Birds recorded: Sparrowhawk, Merlin, Kestrel, Red-legged partridge, Pheasant, Black-headed Gull, Wood pigeon, Cuckoo, Swift, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Skylark, Swallow, House Martin, Carrion Crow, Magpie, Jay, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Willow Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Wren, Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, Redwing, Blackbird, Whinchat, Nightingale, Robin, Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Goldcrest, Hedge Sparrow, Meadow Pipit, Starling, Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Linnet, Redpoll, Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, House Sparrow, Cirl Bunting, Great Grey Shrike.

Butterflies seen during survey: Brimstone, Orange tip, Peacock, Large White, Small Blue.  37 species recorded.

From NT Survey:
Molluscs:  12 sp. . Woodlice 2 sp. Millipedes 2sp. Spiders 3 sp. Mites 1sp.

Insects: Dictyoptera 1sp.  Dermoptera  1sp.  Orthoptera  3 spp.  Psocoptera 3 spp.  Hemiptera 6 spp.  Hymenoptera  11 spp. Diptera 1 sp. Microlepidoptera 15 spp.  Macrolepidoptera  35 spp. Coleoptera 16 spp.

Reptiles:   Common Lizard.  Mammals:  Rabbit, Grey Squirrel, Mole, Stoat.

VEG:
This common is of national importance for chalk grassland and chalk scrub communities and their associated invertebrate fauna.

The lower slopes support coarse grasses {\it Dactylis glomerata, Festuca} spp. {\it Plantago lanceolata, Pimpinella saxifraga, Glechoma hederacea, Daucus carota, Plantago major, Lotus corniculatus, Agrimonia eupatoria, Reseda lutea, Trifolium pratense, Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus repens, Veronica} sp. Sanguisorba minor}. More diverse grassland communities are found upslope and include: {\it Festuca} spp. {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Briza media, Dactylis glomerata, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Koeleria cristata, Helictotrichon} spp. {\it Trisetum flavescens, Bromus erectus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Carex flacca, Carex caryophyllea, Cirsium acaulon, Helianthemum chamecistus, Hippocrepis comosa, Anthyllis vulneraria, Linum catharticum, Scabiosa, columbaria, Primula veris, Dactylorhiza fichsii, Asperula cynanchia, Viola hirta, Listera ovata, Thymus druceii, Polygala calcarea.} Of particular note is {\it Phytema tenerum} - a calcicole usually found on the South Downs. Other occasional species: {\it Arabis hirsuta, Ophrys apifera, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Filipendula vulgaris, Thesium humifusum, Cerastium arvense, Senecio integrifolius}. 

Much of the NW facing part of the western end has {\it Acer pseudoplatanus/Fraxinus excelsior/Taxus baccata} wood and above this an area that has recently been 'descrubbed' with some brushwood left in situ. Other small areas have been descrubbed, sometimes leaving {\it Juniperus communis} to develop. Other areas have had scrub removed on the NE side of the common.

Scrub species present overall include: {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rhamnus catharticus, Cornus sanguinea, Ligistrum vulgare, Acer pseudoplatanus, Taxus baccata, Rosa} sp. {\it Prunus spinosa, Clematis vitalba, Quercus robur, Corylus avellana, Fagus sylvatica}.

MANAGE:
Scrub control, hay-cutting, swiping and monitoring programmes form basis for management.


FAUNA:
Willow tits, Magpie. Toads and fish in stream on eastern side.

VEG:
The eastern side of the road has verge grassland backed by woodland of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Coryllus avellana, Salix} sp. {\it Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Sambucus nigra}. Ground flora species here include {\it Urtica dioica, Iris pseudocorus, Typha latifolia, Oenanthe crocata, Ranunculus flammula, Myosotis} sp. in damper areas and also {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Galium palustre, Aegopodium podograria, Lamium album, Glechoma hederacea, Geranium robertianum, Potentilla anserina, Alliaria petiolata, Chelidonium majus}.

The western side has much {\it Salix} scrub and more open areas support {\it Urtica dioica, Oenanthe crocata, Rosa} sp. {\it Artemesia vulgaris, Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
No active management. Stream/drain along eastern side of road supports varied vegetation and fauna.


FAUNA:
27 species of butterfly recorded (incl. Purple Emperor), 8 species of grasshoppers and crickets and many deadwood species.

Birds: Nightingale, Grasshopper Warbler recorded. Seen: Jay, Crow.

Deer present (in coppice area). Grey Squirrels.

VEG:
The northernmost section of this common has species-poor grassland with rank grasses, a large patch of {\it Juncus} spp., and {\it Cirsium arvense}, as well as {\it Ranunculus} spp., {\it Holcus lanatus, Agrostis} sp. {\it Stellaria graminea}. Moving south, and under power lines that pass WNW to ESE, one finds mixed grassland with {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina, Galium saxatile, Achillea ptarmica, Holcus lanatus, Achillea millefolium, Potentilla erecta, Digitalis purpurea, Senecio jacobea, Carex panicea, Danthonia decumbens, Succisa pratensis}. There are large areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

The northern end of the common has scattered tree cover, mostly {\it Quercus robur/Betula} woods (NVC W10). The woodland cover is denser further west with acid {\it Quercus robur/ Fagus sylvatica} (NVC W15) SW of the power line and in other smaller areas. Central to the common is {\it Quercus robur/Coryllus avellana} wood  (NVC W10).  Also represented is acid {\it Quercus robur/Coryllus avellana/ Fraxinus excelsior} 'heavy soil form' - Peterken 3Aa (NVC W10). The western half of the common is the former coppice area which have a rich ground flora that includes {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Oxalis acetosella, Anemone nemorosa, Carex sylvatica, Carex remota, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Festuca gigantea, Hypericum pulchrum, Luzula pilosa, Malus sylvestris, Lysimachia nemorum, Milium effusum, Moehringia trinervia, Polystichum setiferum, Potentilla sterilis, Primula vulgaris, Rosa arvensis, Sanicula europaea, Veronica montana}.

The mixed grasslands which are interspersed between woodland coups have small species rich areas on the northern edge and adjacent to one of the three patches of {\it Nardus stricta-Molinia caerulea} grassland that includes {\it Pedicularis sylvatica, Danthonia decumbens, Succisa pratensis, Carex panicea} and mosses {\it Aulocomnium palustre, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

MANAGE:
In recent years ancient trees were felled, the site was overgrazed and motor-scrambling permitted! 

The Woodland Trusts' policy is now to 'reintroduce the practices of coppicing and pollarding in the wood and is to continue this management. Another of the Trust's main aims is to encourage natural regeneration to secure the replacement of older trees by restricting grazing so that young saplings may become established.'


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Wood pigeon, Great Tit, Wren.

VEG:
The northernmost end of the common has scrub which is approaching woodland of {\it Coryllus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Acer campestris} with ground flora species such as {\it Rubus fruticosus, Lapsana communis, Carex sylvatica, Heracleum sphondylium, Hyacinthoides nonscripta, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Dactylis glomerata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Stellaria graminea}. There is a line of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees on the NE facing side. 

The rest of the common is {\it Quercus robur} woodland with understorey of {\it Coryllus avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ulmus procera} Some places have very substantial {\it Ilex aquifolium}. Ground flora species as above. Bryophytes are substantial on damp banks e.g.{\it Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Mnium hornum}. A few isolated {\it Polygonatum multiflorum} are found and a occasional {\it Taxus baccata}.

MANAGE:
Horse-riding paths and walkers path separate.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Green woodpecker, Great Tit, Kestrel, Chaffinch, Crows.

Entomological survey (1988) done for Hants. County Council. This report highlights the humid/wet heath and woodland as the richest areas for insects	with dry heath regarded as in too
poor condition to support good insect fauna.
From 1988 report.

Hoverflies: 43 species recorded. No rarities 
Craneflies:	8 species recorded: {\it Limonia fusca} - local and uncommon.
Snail-killing flies:  {\it Tetanocera hylapennis}
Soldier flies: 2 species noted.
Robberflies:  {\it Dysmachus trigonus} 
Parasite flies:  {\it Tachina grossa, Ocyptera interrupta}. The latter is nationally very local or scarce.
Conopid flies: Includes {\it Conops ceriaeformis, Physocephala rufipes}.

Orthoptera: 7 species recorded including {\it Conocephalus discolor}.
Odonata	:  Only {\it Cordulagaster boltonii}.
Rhopalocera: 19 species recorded including Purple Hairstreak.
Heterocera: 3 species noted: Emperor, Oak eggar, Beautiful Yellow Underwing.

VEG:
The eastern end of Pennington Common has substantial acid grassland/heath with {\it Agrostis curtisii, Galium saxatile, Ulex europaeus, Ulex minor, Rumex acetosella, Serratula tinctoria, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra}. There are clumps of {\it Ulex europaeus} on the northern and eastern sides. Some areas have been 'improved' with {\it Lolium perenne}. This area also includes scrambling and play facilities.

By Hazel Rd. small areas of common subdivided by tracks are now scrub of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia, Ulex europaeus} although a previous survey shows this area to have been acidic grassland (1986).

Upper Pennington Common has wet/humid and dry heath surrounded by woodland. The wet heath includes {\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis curtisii, Molinia caerulea, Achillea ptarmica, Carex hostiana, Carex pulicaris, Carex panicea, Cirsium dissectum, Equisetum telemateia, Erica tetralix, Genista anglica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Pedicularis sylvatica, Polygala serpyllifolia, Senecio erucifolius, Succisa pratensis, Dactylorhiza maculata, Carex montana, Carex echinata, Pulicaria dysenterica}. 

Woodland areas are mostly {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Salix} sp.


FAUNA:
Birds recorded include: Sparrowhawk, Green woodpecker, Jay, Long-tailed Tit, Nuthatch, Chiffchaff, Greater-spotted woodpecker, Marsh Tit, Willow Tit.

Deadwood supports many common invertebrates, e.g. {\it Trichoniscus pusillus, Oniscus asellus} (woodlice), {\it Lithobius variegatus} (centipede).

Butterflies: White admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Comma.

Beetles:  {\it Strangalia quadrifasciata}.

Hoverfly: {\it Parasyrphus vittiger, Sphegina clunipes}.

VEG:
A large proportion of Passfield Common is woodland and scrub which has arisen since the cessation of grazing 'within living memory'. The woodland may be part of the old Woolmer Forest and has lichen evidence of wood pasture management in the past.

The National Trust's Biological Survey delineates some broad categories of woodland:

1	{\it Quercus robur} woodland. No ancient or pollarded trees are found but well-spaced mature trees with {\it Betula} sp., {\it Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia}. 5 ancient woodland indicator lichen species are found: {\it Enterographa crassa, Pachyphiale cornea, Thelotreme lepadinum, Stenocybe septata, Arthonia vinosa}. Similar woodland is found NE of Standford Lane.

2	North of Hollywater Rd. lies {\it Quercus/Betula} woodland. Understorey trees include {\it Populus tremula}. Ground flora is shaded and thus sparse.

3	Conford section: Secondary {\it Quercus/Betula} with {\it Malus sylvestris, Prunus spinosa, Sorbus aucuparia, Fagus sylvatica, Castanea sativa, Frangula alnus, Crataegus monogyna}.

4	{\it Alnus glutinosa} carr is found along the Holly Water, sometimes in sites of old ponds. Other trees here include {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Euonymus europaeus, Ilex aquifolium, Salix} sp. {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Ligustrum vulgare, Viburnum opulus}. Ground flora is abundant including {\it Carex pseudocyperus, Ajuga reptans, Valeriana dioica, Circaea lutetiana, Geum urbanum, Galeopsis tetrahit, Oxalis acetosella, Filipendula ulmaria, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Dryopteris carthusiana, Dryopteris dilitata, Lapsana communis, Caltha palustris, Lycopus europaeus, Carex paniculata}. Of particular note are {\it Cardamine amara, Chrysosplenium alternifolium}.

The heathland areas of Conford  are highly {\it Betula} and {\it P.aquilinum} invaded and support {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Vaccinium myrtillus, Rumex acetosella, Galium saxatile, Luzula campestris, Succisa pratensis, Erica cinerea}. North of Hollywater Rd. Passfield Common also has wet heath but with a substantial {\it Sphagnum} element to the species composition.

The Fen on Passfield Common is quite extensive with species such as {\it D. cespitosa, M. caerulea, Succisa pratensis, Angelica sylvestris, Equisetum fluviatile, E. telmateia, Erica tetralix, Lotus uliginosus, Achillea ptarmica, Carex nigra, Carex ovalis, Carex panicea, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Pulicaria dysenterica, Centaurea nigra, Mentha aquatica}.

MANAGE:
Management centres around control of scrub invasion, maintainance of firebreak for access. Some woodland trees to be retained to over-maturity and leave deadwood in situ. Possible coppice trials.


VEG:
The Old Quarry is situated on a steep south-east facing slope at the edge of the River Frome Valley north-east of Hereford. It is continuous with Shucknall Hill Common (CL137). The majority of the common supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland as described for CL137 with the additional species {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Daphne laureola} being recorded. The western end of the common supports tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Urtica dioica}. There was a mature {\it Populus} sp. on the latter part of the common.


FAUNA:
Gatekeeper butterfly was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Dinedor Common is situated on a steep north-west facing slope of Dinedor Hill to the south of Hereford. The majority of the common supports broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Betula pendula}, occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica, Castanea sativa} (locally dominant) and {\it Quercus} sp. and locally {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Understorey species recorded were {\it Ilex aquifolium, Fagus sylvatica, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana} and {\it Clematis vitalba}. Groundflora species recorded were {\it Hedera helix, Deschampsia cespitosa, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and where more open {\it Urtica dioica}. {\it Stachys officinalis, Teucrium scorodonia} and the bryophyte {\it Polytrichum} sp. were recorded beneath the {\it Castanea sativa}. There is some {\it Reynoutria japonica} along the eastern edge of the woodland. There is a small area within the woodland supporting continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered {\it Cirsium arvense}. There are small pockets of {\it Agrostis capillaris} dominated grassland amongst the {\it P. aquilinum}, particularly a past excavated area which also supports {\it Ulex gallii}. 

The narrow eastern end of the common supports areas of continuous bracken, tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Bryonia dioica} and {\it Rumex} sp. and continuous scrub of {\it Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Salix capraea}. There is an ancient {\it Castanea sativa} on this part of the common.

MANAGE:
The common appeared largely unmanaged. The woodland had been coppiced in the past, especially the {\it Castanea sativa} (locally planted?) and a strip of scrub had been cleared beneath overhead cables at the eastern end of the common (now supporting continuous bracken). A small area of the common had been excavated in the recent past near 'The Nest' and was grassing over. There was a small fireplace within the woodland with some litter around and the groundflora had been worn away in places through recreational activity.


VEG:
The Long Meadow is a low-lying common between Orleton and Brimfield in the north of the county. It is crossed by a stream and lies adjacent to a second. The common is under arable cultivation ({\it Triticum aestivum}). The stream crossing the common is within a relatively species-rich hedgerow of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Alnus glutinosa, Salix fragilis, Corylus avellana} and {\it Ulmus} sp.

MANAGE:
The common is under arable cultivation. This has probably been facilitated by there being only a single rightholder and single owner on the common. There are no boundaries to the east or south, the common forming parts of larger fields. The hedgerow along the stream crossing the common is tall and unmanaged.


FAUNA:
Fox, woodpigeon, blue tit, wren and speckled wood butterfly were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Sutton Rhea consists of a looped track in the Lugg Valley to the south of Sutton St. Nicholas. It is largely bordered by tall hedgerows (locally defunct), generally dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Sambucus nigra, Ulmus glabra, Symphoricarpos albus, Prunus domestica, P. avium, P. spinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Corylus avellana} and occasional mature {\it Quercus robur}. Species-rich hedgerows are one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. At the northern end of the common there are occasional {\it Salix fragilis} pollards. Species recorded along the verges were {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Conium maculatum, Rumex crispus, Anthriscus sylvestris, Elytrigia repens, Epilobium hirsutum, Calystegia sepium, Ranunculus repens, Filipendula ulmaria, Angelica sylvestris, Arctium} sp. and {\it Symphytum} sp., rarely {\it Lythrum salicaria} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} and locally {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Equisetum arvense}. Where the verge is frequently mown {\it Lolium perenne, Plantago major} and {\it Trifolium repens} occur. Where the track is more shaded {\it Alliaria petiolata, Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. were recorded. 

There is an area of standing water towards the northern end of the common with abundant {\it Lemna} sp., frequent {\it Apium nodiflorum}, locally dominant {\it Typha latifolia} and some {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is navigable by vehicles, the northern 'tail' being metalled. The hedgerows are largely unmanaged and tall and the verges also are generally unmanaged, possibly occasionally cut back in places and locally regularly mown at the northern end. There were a lot of travellers on the common at the time of the site visit.


VEG:
Bearswood common is one of a series of three commons on the steep west facing valley side of the Cradley Brook in east Herefordshire (see also CLs 102 and 103). 

The majority of the common supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Euonymus europaeus, Clematis vitalba, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Chamerion angustifolium} is locally frequent amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Urtica dioica}. {\it Aegopodium podagraria} was recorded locally. Along the trackside leading to Bay Tree Cottage, {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Pimpinella saxifraga, Potentilla erecta, Galium verum} and {\it Galium saxatile} were recorded. 

Along the foot of the common is a strip of continuous scrub of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus avium, P. domestica, Euonymus europaeus, Acer campestre} and {\it Cornus sanguinea}. {\it Linaria vulgaris, Clinopodium vulgare, Geranium robertianum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Hedera helix, Pteridium aquilinum, Bryonia dioica} and locally {\it Saponaria officinalis} were recorded amongst the scrub. 

At the northern end of the common is a small area of predominantly {\it Betula pendula} scrub? (there was no public access to this part of the common). 

The western edge of the common is bordered by a tall intact hedgerow of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and towards the northern end a coppiced {\it C. avellana} hedge. A large pollarded {\it Tilia} sp. was recorded at SO733497.

MANAGE:
There appeared to be little management on the common except for the tracksides where the vegetation had been cut back (there are no registered rights). The common has probably been unmanaged for some time and there is probably little vegetation beneath the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (there was limited access on the common). If so, it would take some time for vegetation to establish if bracken was cleared. Scrub cover will undoubtedly increase on the common in the absence of management. A property has been recently built on the common.


VEG:
Coney Cuthill common is one of a series of three commons on the steep west facing valley side of the Cradley Brook in east Herefordshire (see also CLs 101 and 103). 

The common supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Q. petraea, Acer campestre} and locally abundant {\it Prunus avium}. A large coppiced {\it Fagus sylvatica} was recorded. The understorey comprises occasional {\it Clematis vitalba, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Euonymus europaeus, Ulmus glabra, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus avium, Sambucus nigra, Rosa arvensis} and {\it Taxus baccata} with some standing dead {\it Ulmus} sp? Groundflora species recorded included frequent {\it Hedera helix, Silene dioica, Alliaria petiolata, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}, occasional {\it Mercurialis perennis, Melica uniflora, Teucrium scorodonia, Galium aparine} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and locally {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Anisantha sterilis}. 

The common narrows to a track at the southern end, locally bordered by {\it Quercus petraea, Acer campestre, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Sambucus nigra} and lines of {\it Tilia} sp. and conifers.

MANAGE:
The common is apparently unmanaged. The canopy is fairly open and some regeneration of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} was observed. There has been some planting of conifers and {\it Tilia} sp. along the track at the southern end of the common.


FAUNA:
Brown hare, raven and small tortoiseshell butterfly were recorded during the site visit. Brown hare is listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
West Lawn common is situated on the north-facing valleyside of Cwm Garw on the edge of the Golden Valley in western Herefordshire. The majority of the common supports continuous bracken with scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} increasing to the north. {\it Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Oxalis acetosella} were also recorded amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

There is a small area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland along the northern and north-western boundaries comprising a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula} and occasional {\it Ulmus glabra}, an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Acer campestre} and a sparse groundflora of scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Digitalis purpurea}. The woodland may extend further south-westwards along the boundary than indicated. 

The south-eastern corner of the common supports semi-improved acid grassland of frequent {\it Festuca} sp., {\it Luzula} sp. and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with occasional {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta}, locallised {\it Juncus conglomeratus} and {\it Nardus stricta} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There are a few other pockets of grassland on the common with the additional species {\it Aira} spp., {\it Rumex acetosella, Pilosella officinarum, Viola} sp., {\it Cirsium palustre, Aphanes arvensis} and rarely {\it Veronica officinalis} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia} also recorded. Locally the grassland is a semi-improved neutral type with frequent {\it Trifolium repens, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Prunella vulgaris, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera} with occasional {\it Bellis perennis}.

There is a defunct, species-poor hedgerow along the south western boundary comprising {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Betula pendula}. There is an ancient {\it Quercus} sp. pollard where the track joins the common on the northern boundary.

MANAGE:
Sheep were grazing the common at the time of the site visit. Grazing was locally heavy, but obviously at insufficient levels to control the spread of bracken and scrub across much of the common. Some damage was noted on the common from farm vehicles (wide and rutted track towards the northern end of the common).


FAUNA:
Carrion crow, grey heron and the butterflies small copper and common blue were recorded during the site visit. 

The meadows flood in winter attracting birds such as Bewick and Whooper swan on passage to their wintering grounds. Bird species recorded from the Lugg Meadows 1981-1987 include golden plover (30, 1981), snipe (15, 1981 and present 1985), lapwing (1000, 1983, 3500+, 1984 and 800+, 1986), curlew (1983 and 1985), kingfisher (1983 and 1984), mute swan (15, 1984), snow goose (1, 1984), teal (200, 1984), common gull (50, 1984 and 100+, 1986), lesser black-backed gull (30, 1984), woodpigeon (400+, 1984), cuckoo (1984), fieldfare (2000+, 1984), redwing (1000+, 1984), reed bunting (1984), green sandpiper (1985), greater spotted woodpecker (1985), meadow pipit (50, 1985 and 10, 1987), goldeneye (1986), chaffinch (200+, 1987), greenfinch (20, 1987) and yellowhammer (10, 1987). 

37 species of invertebrate were recorded from the SSSI on 24.05.87 by (S.J.J.Lambert and P.Kirby) including the nationally scarce alder fly {\it Sialis nigripes} and the local species {\it Bembidion punctulatum} and {\it B. dentellum} (ground beetles), {\it Gastrophysa viridula} (leaf beetle), {\it Tipula coukei} and {\it Limnophila punctata} (craneflies) and {\it Atherix ibis} (snipe fly). The vulnerable woodboring beetle {\it Xyletinus longitarsis} was recorded in May 1990. A white-legged dragonfly (?damselfly) was recorded on the edge of the River Lugg during the 1994 grassland survey of the meadows.

Small and large skippers, small, large and green-veined whites, orange tip, holly blue, red admiral, small tortoiseshell, peacock, gatekeeper, meadow brown and ringlet butterflies were recorded from the Lugg meadows by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Upper Lugg meadow is one of a series of commons along the river Lugg, east of Hereford (see also CLs 35, 98, 100 and 148). These commons are still managed as Lammas Land (see management section). Unfortuately the meadows were visited after the hay cut but there was a reasonable amount of regrowth for survey purposes. There was also recent NVC data available.

The majority of the meadow supports semi-improved neutral grassland. Species diversity varies across the common probably due to the traditional lammas management (see below). {\it Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Poa trivialis} are frequent with locally frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Bromus hordaceous, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Trisetum flavescens} and occasional {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Bromus commutatus}. {\it Ranunculus acris, Leontodon autumnalis} and {\it Cerastium fontanum} are frequent throughout with occasional {\it Rumex acetosa, Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Taraxacum officinale}. {\it Rhinanthus minor, Lotus pedunculatus, Lathyrus pratensis, Silaum silaus} and the nationally scarce* {\it Oenanthe silaifolia} occur locally. Additional species recorded include {\it Avenula pubescens, Trifolium dubium, Crepis capillaris, Alopecurus geniculatus, Cardamine pratensis, Hypochaeris radicata, Achillea millefolium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Geranium dissectum, Leucanthemum vulgare, Potentilla reptans, Cirsium arvense, Centaurea nigra, R. crispus, Lotus corniculatus, Vicia cracca, Ranunculus repens, Plantago lanceolata, Carex hirta, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. Some {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea} were recorded at the southern end near the road. 

The grassland within the SSSI is similar but supports some of the richest areas on the common. {\it Thalictrum flavum} was recorded from the SSSI in 1990. Herbaceous species such as {\it Caltha palustris, Sanguisorba officinalis} and {\it Oenanthe fistulosa} mentioned in the SSSI citation (last revised 1975) or HNT reserve description have not been recorded in recent surveys. The SSSI and Trust reserve are particularly notable for the nationally scarce* {\it Fritillaria meleagris}. 

The grassland has been classified as MG6 {\it Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus} pasture with pockets of MG4 {\it Alopecurus pratensis-Sanguisorba officinalis} flood meadow (although {\it S. officinalis} is rare) and locally species-poor MG7 {\it Lolium perenne} ley. Despite the high frequency of {\it Lolium perenne} suggesting the grassland is semi-improved, the accompanying species suggest it could be at least locally unimproved, the high frequency of {\it L. perenne} possibly due to the high natural fertility of the alluvial soils. 

A few {\it Salix} spp., {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} occur along the river bank with some {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. {\it Phalaris arundinacea, Iris pseudacorus, Apium nodiflorum, Glyceria maxima, Equisetum} sp. and {\it Callitriche} sp. were recorded from the stream bordering the the south-western edge of the common.

* Nationally scarce species are those occuring in between 16 and 100 10km squares in Britain (Steuart {\it et al}, 'Scarce Plants in Britain', JNCC, 1994).

MANAGE:
Upper and Lower Lugg meadows (CLs 34 and 35), Midsummer Meadow (CL148) and Hampton meadow (CL 98) are all managed as Lammas Meadows. This means the commons are divided into separately owned strips marked by stones. From Candlemas (Feb 2nd) until Lammas (Aug 1st) the meadows are shut for hay. Following the hay crop by each owner, the meadows are then opened to grazing by rightholders. This is a rare surviving practice from mediaeval times, the Lugg Meadows being one of 14 meadows in England and Wales managed in this way and the largest of these most closely managed in the traditional way (A.Brian, 1990). The strip management of the common probably accounts for the varying grassland diversity across the common. The common had recently been cut at the time of the site visit but there was no grazing stock on the common (grazing by cattle was noted in the 1994 survey). There is an active commoners association (Upper Lugg Commoners). Undoubtedly some areas of the common are fertilised, other areas may be unimproved, appearing semi-improved due to high natural fertility of the alluvial soils. Unimproved lowland hay meadow is one of the key habitats on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and the common supports two nationally scarce species. The common is subject to winter flooding attracting birds on passage to wintering grounds. The Lugg Meadows were under the threat of development for the Hereford bypass in 1990 (ongoing?).


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were: Flock of swallows Kestrel (hovering) Red Grouse, Carrion Crow.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. Additional information on species composition has been gathered during the site visit to produce the following report. The common lies on the plateau of Spence Moor and descends steeply in the north into the deep valley of Ogden Clough. The plateau itself (1) has dry-modified bog dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum, often co-dominant with Vaccinium myrtillus and with frequent Deschampsia flexuosa and locally frequent Eriophorum angustifolium (NVC M20). In places the bog gives way to patches of acidic grassland, dominated by Nardus stricta and Juncus squarrosus covering about 5 percent of the area. These species also occur in the bog itself. Adjoining here (2), the bog is even more disrupted with acidic grassland and heath accounting for 20 percent of the ground cover, Vaccinium myrtillus being abundant throughout most of this area. Numerous small exposures of bare peat are to be found in this area surrounding small islands of remnant blanket mire. The boundary between this region and area (3) marks the break in slope at the edge of the valley of Ogden Clough. Here the slope is too steep to have any blanket peat and is vegetated by species-poor unimproved acidic grassland dominated either by Nardus stricta or Juncus squarrosus. However to the eastern end of the slope there is a patch of dense Pteridium aquilinum. A narrow strip in the base of the valley has areas of species-poor acidic flush dominated by Juncus effusus and Sphagnum recurvum, with J. effusus also locally abundant within the grassland.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed extensively by sheep. There is no fencing between this common and the adjoining CL 83 and CL 95, allowing free passage of sheep. The Vaccinium myrtillus on the plateau all shows signs of heavy modification by grazing, being in the form of closely cropped topiary shaped bushes around 30cm. tall. The grassland areas too are dominated by species which are considered to be unpalatable to sheep.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were: Red Grouse, Curlew, Meadow Pipits, Golden Plover, Swallows, Housemartins.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1991. No relevant target notes were available from this report. The common lies on a slope in a narrow strip to the north of the contiguous common CL 90, Hare Appletree Fell. At the top of the slope (1) is dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by Vaccinium myrtillus (80 percent cover). Also present are numerous small boulders and occasional remnant patches of bare peat. Within this area there are locally frequent Cladonia spp., Eriophorum vaginatum, Deschampsia flexuosa and Juncus squarrosus, which form a grassy mosaic within the heath. Below here is a small remnant of blanket mire (2) contiguous with a larger area on the adjoining CL 90. This has tussocky Eriophorum vaginatum. The wetter parts have Sphagnum spp., E. angustifolium and Polytrichum spp., while the drier parts have Deschampsia flexuosa and Juncus squarrosus. Vaccinium myrtillus is locally abundant throughout (40 percent cover). Less commonly there are small amounts of Empetrum nigrum, Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix. Below here at (3) is strip of remnant eroded blanket mire within a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland. This area has locally abundant Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium, Empetrum nigrum, Juncus squarrosus and Vaccinium myrtillus, and occasional Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix. Area (4) is Juncus squarrosus-dominated acidic grassland and at (5) this is present in a mosaic with Eriophorum vaginatum-dominated dry-modified bog.

MANAGE:
The common is unfenced from the contiguous CL 90, with which it forms a discrete grazing unit. The commons are grazed extensively by sheep and this has had a marked effect on the vegetation. The comments on the management of the site are identical to those made for CL 90 (refer to that section).


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were: Swallows, Wheatear, Meadow Pipit, Red Grouse.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. No specific target notes were available, and a full field survey has therefore been carried out. This is one of a block of five contiguous commons which lie to the south of the Bowland Fells AONB. The common occupies a steeply sloping hillside. Much of the common has marshy grassland dominated by Molinia caerulea. Within the sward there is frequent Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina and Nardus stricta with occasional Agrostis capillaris, locally frequent Polytrichum commune, Juncus squarrosus and Potentilla erecta, and locally occasional Carex echinata and Luzula multiflora. This grassland sward appears to be somewhat transitional between NVC types M25 and U5. To the north of the track there are also tiny acidic flushes dominated by Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum and Polytrichum commune with occasional Cirsium palustre (NVC M6c). The drier parts of the common have unimproved acidic grassland with frequent Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Nardus stricta, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus and Galium saxatile and occasional Potentilla erecta, Rumex acetosella and Juncus squarrosus (NVC U5). The grassland near the track has locally frequent tussocky Juncus effusus, and to the south it is semi-improved in character with abundant Cirsium arvense. Euphrasia officinalis is also frequent in places next to the track. To the west of the track the marshy grassland occurs in a mosaic with wet dwarf shrub heath. This area has a 40 percent cover of Vaccinium myrtillus, 20 percent cover of Erica tetralix and 15 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris.

MANAGE:
Part of the common is grazed by sheep and is fenced from CL 293, but not from CL 398. A wall runs to the north of the track. This side of the common appears quite well grazed. The area to the south has fairly rank, apparently ungrazed vegetation. The ericoid species in the wet heath are generally healthy, with a good age structure, growing to around 20 cm tall.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were: Lesser Black-backed Gull, Meadow Pipit. 
Meadow Brown Butterfly and Common Frog.

VEG:
Vegetation maps from the Lancashire Phase 1 survey could not be located and so a full field survey has been undertaken. The common occupies the rounded hill of Great Hameldon (409m). From the summit southwards the vegetation is principally a mosaic with equal amounts of acidic grassland and dry-modified bog. The grassland is mainly dominated by Nardus stricta and Deschampsia flexuosa with occasional Juncus squarrosus (NVC U5). Where the latter species becomes dominant the grassland grades into NVC type U6. The bog represents remnants of blanket mire and the peat is now thin in places. This habitat is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum and Deschampsia flexuosa (NVC M20). In a few places the E. vaginatum is very tussocky and on thin peat with the area between tussocks dominated by Molinia caerulea. This has been mapped as marshy grassland but makes up no more than 5 percent of the area. The summit of Great Hameldon itself has a crescent-shaped area of pure acidic grassland on thin soil dominated by Deschampsia flexuosa (NVC M2). The northern edge of the common which adjoins CL 159 is marked by the southern boundary of a disused sandstone quarry. There is a depression in the land between here and the slope leading onto Great Hameldon. This area harbours a complex series of mires and flushes. The axis of the depression runs east-west. The lowest area (1) is occupied by Eriophorum vaginatum and Deschampsia flexuosa-dominated mire (NVC M20). Locally there are occasional Sphagnum spp. However about 10 percent of the area is dominated by Molinia caerulea on deep peat which has been mapped accordingly as wet-modified bog (NVC M25). A discrete area of this vegetation occurs at (2). To the west, at (3), the vegetation is still dominated by Molinia caerulea, but the peat is generally less than 0.5m deep, and the area has been mapped as marshy grassland. Eriophorum vaginatum, Deschampsia flexuosa and Juncus squarrosus are all locally frequent in this area.  Leading from the mire complex are a series of narrow acidic flushes (4), dominated by Juncus effusus, Polytrichum commune and Sphagnum recurvum (NVC M6c). One of the flushes appears to be associated with a former drainage channel. These flushes are species-poor but hold a number of species including Eriophorum angustifolium, E. vaginatum, Epilobium palustre, Holcus lanatus, Viola palustris, Agrostis canina var. canina, Juncus articulatus and Carex nigra. The flush at (5) is more interesting, with a large population of Narthecium ossifragum and Vaccinium oxycoccos. In the vicinity of the old quarry (6) the mosaic of acidic grassland and dry-modified bog is similar to that to the south of the common. The old quarry itself has been discussed fully under CL 159. This has much bare sandstone spoil with smaller areas of Deschamsia flexuosa-dominated grassland on thin soil elsewhere (NVC U2).

MANAGE:
The common is moderately grazed by sheep (as shown by the dominance of Nardus stricta in much of the grassland). The common is unfenced from the adjoining CL 159 and stock can wander freely between the two commons. There appears to be no other active management of the site.


FAUNA:
No fauna were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
The Lancashire Phase 1 map was not available at the time of data collation. A full field survey was therefore carried-out. The common lies on a steeply sloping hillside to the south of the summit of Parlick Fell (432m). The majority of the common has unimproved acidic grassland dominated by Nardus stricta. Deschampsia flexuosa is frequent throughout and there are locally frequent Juncus squarrosus and Galium saxatile and occasional Juncus effusus (NVC Type U5). On the top of Parlick Fell itself however about 40 percent of the grassland is a sward dominated by Juncus squarrosus (NVC type U6). In the south- eastern corner of the common there are numerous tiny acidic flushes running up the hillside through the acidic grassland (1). These are dominated mainly by Juncus effusus and Sphagnum recurvum (NVC M6c), although in places there are sedge-rich lawns with Carex echinata, C. demissa and C. flacca (NVC M6a). Locally frequent are Juncus articulatus, Stellaria alsine, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Cirsium palustre, Equisetum fluviatile and Eriophorum angustifolium. A narrow gash is present in the hillside at (2). In its upper reaches there is an acidic flush dominated by Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum and Polytrichum commune. Lower down however there are patches of damp unimproved acidic grassland infested with Juncus effusus. The dominant grasses are Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris and Deschampsia flexuosa. Where this feature reaches the foot of the hill (3) there is a complex of narrow acidic flushes and marshy grassland in a small valley, the sides of which have semi-improved acidic grassland. The flushes are once again typical of those already described. The marshy grassland is dominated by Juncus effusus, and the semi-improved grassland has Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta and Urtica dioica. At the foot of the hillside to the north-east of the common there is a further area of flushed vegetation. At (4) there is a fairly large area of acidic flush with a 25 percent covering of scattered Pteridium aquilinum. This again is dominated by Juncus effusus and Sphagnum recurvum with locally frequent Deschampsia cespitosa, Viola palustris, Agrostis canina, Eriophorum angustifolium, Juncus bulbosus, Carex panicea and C. echinata. On the slope above there is a 90 percent cover of dense Pteridium aquilinum and 10 percent diffuse acidic flushes. These are similar to those above but also have locally frequent Cirsium palustre, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Hydrocotyle vulgaris and Lychnis flos-cuculi.

MANAGE:
The common is extensively grazed by sheep. This appears compatible with the dominance of Nardus stricta and Juncus squarrosus over most of the grassland. There has been some localised eutrophication of the grassland in the small valley at (3), which appears to be a favoured sheltering area for sheep. There is no other management on the common.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit were: Red Grouse, Curlew, Meadow Pipits, Golden Plover, Swallows Housemartins.

VEG:
This large common situated to the north of the Bowland Fells was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1991. A comprehensive range of target notes was available. A field visit was also made to assess heather condition and site management, and also to take photographs. The south of the common straddles a broad plateau between the hills of Grit Fell to the west and Ward's Stone to the east. To the north the ground falls gently away into the Lune Valley. The majority of the common has dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by Calluna vulgaris, mostly at between 80-90 percent cover. Along the southern edge of the common there is a level area which still has blanket mire (1) mapped as dry-modified bog. Within the stands of Calluna vulgaris there are locally frequent Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea, Erica tetralix, and Cladonia spp. Much of the heath in the southern part of the common has a thin layer of peat. This is evident on Grit Fell (2) where there are numerous areas of bare eroded peat revealing a stony substrate beneath. Further active areas of extensive peat erosion are present within the blanket mire itself as at (3) for example. Peat erosion was also clearly evident on the path at (4) where the peat depth is between 1.5-2.0m. Here there are numerous small pools in the eroded peat being recolonised by Eriophorum angustifolium. There are further patches of eroding peat on the common as at (5) and at the head of Rushbed Gutter (6). The species composition and ground cover of the blanket mire area is largely the same as on the heath with the addition of Eriophorum vaginatum which is frequent to abundant throughout. At (7) there is a small area of remnant Sphagnum mire with abundant Sphagnum spp., Eriophorum vaginatum and occasional Vaccinium myrtillus. The high ground around Ward's Stone rises above the layer of peat. Here there is heath almost totally dominated by Vaccinium myrtillus (8). Similar heath occurs to the south along Foxdale Beck (9) which is also being invaded by Pteridium aquilinum. Most of Ward's Stone has a mosaic of dry dwarf shrub heath and unimproved acidic grassland, with scattered sandstone boulders. The heath is again dominated by Vaccinium myrtillus (50 percent cover), with locally frequent V. vitis-idaea and around a 1 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris. The grassland component is dominated by Juncus squarrosus with frequent Festuca ovina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta, Polytrichum commune and Cladonia spp. Scattered around the hilltop are some spectacular "islands" of peat about 1.5m in height and 10m across, vegetated with Vaccinium myrtillus and Eriophorum vaginatum. To the north-east of Ward's Stone is a further area of blanket mire similar in nature to that already described, with Calluna vulgaris once again being the dominant ericoid species. The western part of the common is almost entirely covered by a stand of dry dwarf shrub heath.  This is generally dominated by Calluna vulgaris at between 80-95 percent cover. Vaccinium myrtillus and V. vitis-idaea reach a 20 percent cover locally. To the east of Clougha Pike (10) there is also some Erica tetralix. Clougha Pike itself is an impressive rocky outcrop with numerous large sandstsone boulders (20 percent cover) among the heather. Part of this area is enclosed by a fence (11). Here Vaccinium myrtillus is the dominant species (60 percent) with only a 30 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris (presumably reflecting a differing management regime). To the north of Clougha Pike there is more dry dwarf shrub heath on a steeply sloping hillside, again with frequent scattered boulders (12). Calluna vulgaris reaches 100 percent cover over most of this area with only occasional Vaccinium myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea and Empetrum nigrum. There are several patches of dense Pteridium aquilinum on the lower slopes at this point and elsewhere along the northern edge of the common. Several areas of acidic flush are shown on the original Phase 1 map in this area. These are dominated by Juncus effusus and Sphagnum spp., and presumably are species-poor as none of them are specifically mentioned in any of the target notes. A small patch of woodland with Quercus petrea and Betula pendula pendula occurs at (13), together with a narrow band of wet dwarf shrub heath dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Sphagnum spp.

MANAGE:
Most of the common, outside the Clougha access area is managed as grouse-moor by rotational burning of the heather. At the time of the site visit there was evidence of substantial burnt areas of heather between Black Fell and Blanch Fell, with small areas elsewhere. There were a small number of sheep present on the common, mainly in the area around Ward's Stone in the south-east. Calluna vulgaris is the dominant ericoid species, with a cover of between 80-100 percent over most of the heath on the common. The plant has a slightly lower overall cover on the areas of blanket mire. Away from the burnt areas the Calluna generally is fairly mature and has a good branched structure often reaching 40cm tall. A small proportion of plants appear somewhat "leggy" and senescent, and around 5 percent of plants are dead, probably due to old age. Over most of the heath there is little evidence of any modification of the Calluna plants by grazing. However within the access area to the west, there are localised areas where the Calluna shows signs of having been grazed by sheep. About 10 percent of plants have adopted a rounded, topiary form, with nibbling of the surface layer.

Generally the Calluna in this part of the common appears slightly older than elsewhere (to 50cm tall) and with a higher proportion of "leggy" and dead plants. Also present are occasional "drumstick" plants caused by the grazing of mature plants. There appear to have been no recent burns in this area and these features are probably as a result of the creation of the access area. At the time of the survey almost all the surviving Calluna plants had a good crop of flowers. In the burnt areas there is generally an excellent recovery of seedling Calluna plants. Erica tetralix is present in small amounts in the wetter parts of the common. This all appears healthy and may be relatively unpalatable to sheep. The sheep on the common appear to congregate in the grassy area around Ward's Stone. Here Calluna vulgaris is only locally frequent, at around 1 percent overall cover. All plants have been grazed into a dense, short carpet. There is a band of Calluna showing varying degrees of modification by grazing around this area. Vaccinium myrtillus is the main heath species at Ward's Stone, growing especially well on the tops of the isolated peat "islands". All the plants have a rounded, topiary appearance.

The only form of access to most of the common is along the access path to the south. The lack of public disturbance, coupled with the active management as grouse moor probably mean that this is an important site for upland breeding birds such as Curlew, Dunlin and Golden Plover.


VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. There were no relevant target notes made on the common land, and a full field survey was therefore carried out. The common has three parts. (1) is a small area of unimproved acidic grassland dominated by Nardus stricta, Festuca ovina and Agrostis capillaris. (2) is an area which lies adjacent to and unfenced from CL 516. The marshy grassland is dominated by tussocky Molinia caerulea and also has frequent Deschampsia flexuosa with locally frequent Nardus stricta, Polytrichum commune, Juncus squarrosus and Potentilla erecta (probably an NVC M25 sward). The wet heath has 40 percent Vaccinium myrtillus, 20 percent Erica tetralix and 15 percent Calluna vulgaris. To the west is a small area with a mosaic of Nardus stricta-dominated acidic grassland and Vaccinium myrtillus dry dwarf shrub heath. Also present beyond the boundary wall is a minute plot of dry-modified bog dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum and Vaccinium myrtillus. Part (3) is largely dry dwarf shrub heath with a 90 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris, with occasional patches of Nardus stricta-dominated unimproved acidic grassland. A depression in the centre has a patch of dry-modified bog dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum, but also with a 70 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris.

MANAGE:
Part (1) is crossed by a track and appears grazed by passing sheep. Part (2) is part of a contiguous land unit which it forms with CL 516. The vegetation here is tussocky and appears largely ungrazed. Part (3) appears un-fenced from land which is not common and which appears lightly if at all grazed. All the ericoid species on the common are in a healthy condition, plants on the larger areas of heath and bog (3) being fairly mature (up to 40cm tall) and having a good crop of flowers at the time of the survey.


FAUNA:
No fauna were recorded on this common which is completely occupied by an active quarry.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. The site is almost completely occupied by an active sandstone quarry, part of a much larger feature, Britannia Quarries. In the extreme north-western corner is a small plot of marshy grassland dominated by Molinia caerulea.

MANAGE:
The common is managed as part of a large active sandstone quarry despite there being several registered grazing rights.


VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1991. This has been used entirely in the writing of the following vegetation description, and the common was not visited. Most of the common has a sward of unimproved acidic grassland dominated by Juncus squarrosus and Nardus stricta. At Haylot Crag there are scattered sandstone boulders. At the eastern extremity there is a mosaic of unimproved acidic grassland and dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by Vaccinium myrtillus. In the south and east are areas of dry-modified bog dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum with locally frequent Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus. There are several large areas of acidic flush on the common dominated by Juncus effusus and Sphagnum spp. Presumably these are relatively species-poor as none have been target noted by the Phase 1 report. An area of dense Pteridium aquilinum is present along the north-eastern edge of the common.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be fenced from the contiguous CL 123 Black Fell, Blanch Fell and Haylot Fell. There are two rights of pasture for sheep, neither of which are cross-referenced to CL 123. It is likely that these pasture rights are being exercised, given the general pattern of land-use in this area and the prominence of Juncus squarrosus and Nardus stricta within the grassland.


VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1991. The vegetation is largely similar to that on the adjoining CL 123. The common was visited and viewed from the access path along its southern boundary. From the south-western tip the common descends gradually in a north-westerly direction. At the highest point of the common there are patches of dry dwarf shrub heath often in a mosaic with unimproved acidic grassland (1). Calluna vulgaris is present at around 50 percent cover with around 30 percent Vaccinium myrtillus, together with locally frequent V. vitis-idaea. The grassy areas are dominated by Juncus effusus with occasional Nardus stricta. Downslope from here is a small patch of blanket mire with abundant Sphagnum spp. and Eriophorum vaginatum (2). Locally frequent are E. angustifolium, Calluna vulgaris (25 percent overall cover), Polytrichum commune, Erica tetralix, Vaccinium myrtillus and V. vitis-idaea. Beyond here Sphagnum moss is rather scarce and the vegetation has been mapped accordingly as dry-modified bog (3). An area with similar vegetation to (1) occurs in the opposite corner at (4). Much of the rest of the common comprises a rather degraded area of dry-modified bog, often with patches of eroded peat with acidic grassland and dry dwarf shrub heath where the peat has gone. The species composition is similar to that elsewhere on the common and the overall cover of Calluna vulgaris here is around 25 percent. The stand of pure dry dwarf shrub heath at (5) has a higher cover of Calluna, but even here there are many fragments of peat and exposed rocky substrate.

MANAGE:
The common is enclosed by post and wire fences. The area within is grazed by sheep. The condition of the Calluna vulgaris is somewhat variable. Most plants are fairly short (10-20cm). Plants in the corners at (1) and (4) have a high proportion which have been grazed into carpet and topiary forms (50 percent). On the bog, the Calluna is less modified with a good crop of flowers, although again quite short. Erica tetralix appears unselected by sheep on this site.


FAUNA:
Several Meadow Pipits were seen during the survey and a Snipe was flushed from the Tarn.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1991. One target note was available from the survey. Information from the field survey has also been used to compile this report. The common comprises an area of quite damp acidic grassland. This is mainly dominated by Nardus stricta and Deschampsia flexuosa with Juncus squarrosus, Molinia caerulea, Pleurozium schreberi, and Dicranum scoparium being abundant throughout. Locally there are occasional Polytrichum commune, Sphagnum papillosum and Agrostis capillaris. This grassland appears to have strong affinities with NVC U5 due to the general dominance of Nardus stricta. In areas where Juncus squarrosus is dominant and Polytrichum commune and Sphagnum spp. are present, the grassland appears to be more like NVC U6. However Molinia caerulea is not normally so abundant in either of these communities. Possibly the grassland is transitional also with NVC type M25 (perhaps a high grazing intensity has favoured Nardus stricta and Juncus effusus within a sward of NVC M25). In the north-eastern corner is a small hollow where the grassland has small flushed areas dominated by Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum and S. cuspidatum. Wray Wood Moor Tarn is a pool surrounded by a large flushed area. This is again dominated by Juncus effusus and Sphagnum recurvum, and has frequent Agrostis canina, Juncus acutiflorus, Carex nigra, Polytrichum commune and Sphagnum papillosum (NVC M6c). To the east of the flushed part are small areas of bare peat where Carex nigra is locally abundant.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed extensively by sheep. Cattle grids protect either end of the metalled farm road where it crosses onto the common. There appears to be no other management on the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna were recorded during the brief site visit.

VEG:
The two parts of the common were covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. The northern part is mainly marshy grassland dominated by Molinia caerulea (1) with locally abundant Eriophorum vaginatum. In the south-western corner (2) there is an area of unimproved acidic grassland with Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta, Carex nigra and Polytrichum commune with some Molinia caerulea. The southern part of the common is entirely occupied by part of an active sandstone quarry (Britannia Quarries) and is unvegetated.

MANAGE:
That part of the common which is not occupied by the quarry appears to be moderately grazed by sheep. This area is contiguous with and un-fenced from CL 213 thus forming part of a larger grazing unit. The part within the quarry is fenced from CL 213 by the boundary fence of the quarry. Apart from quarrying there appears to be no other management of this common.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were: 
Overhead: Skylark, Carrion Crow, Curlew.  
Other fauna: Common Frog.

VEG:
The Lancashire Phase 1 survey map could not be located and a full field survey was therefore carried out. The common occupies sloping ground to the north of Hog Lowe Pike (383m). The area was probably covered by blanket peat in the past, but this is now reduced to remnant areas of dry-modified bog, surrounded by Marshy grassland, dominated by Molinia caerulea on peat apparently less than 0.5m deep (NVC M25) and occupies most of the common. The main area of remnant bog is at (1). This is on deep peat and there is an obvious slope downwards at the edge where the transition to marshy grassland occurs. The dominant species here is Eriophorum vaginatum with frequent Deschampsia flexuosa (NVC M20). Locally there are pockets with Molinia caerulea (especially around drainage channels) and also Eriophorum angustifolium and Carex nigra. In some parts the distinction between marshy grassland and dry-modified bog becomes unclear, with tussocky patches of Eriophorum vaginatum within the marshy grassland. The area at (2) in the vicinity of the old farmhouse has been drained in the past to produce an area of unimproved acidic grassland with tussocks of Juncus effusus in places. This grassland has abundant Nardus stricta, frequent Agrostis capillaris and Deschampsia flexuosa with occasional Galium saxatile (NVC U5). Livestock have tended to congregate around the old farm buildings to produce a semi-improved sward with co-dominant Agrostis capillaris and Holcus lanatus. Further down the slope from the old farm buildings are two small acidic flushes. These are dominated by Juncus effusus with occasional Sphagnum recurvum and Polytrichum commune, with locally frequent Holcus mollis and Agrostis canina var. canina (NVC M6c). To the east the ground falls steeply into a narrow valley. This area is fenced from the rest of the common. The top of the slope has a mosaic of Marshy grassland and acidic grassland in roughly equal proportions.  At (3) is a hillside strip of well-developed dry dwarf shrub heath. This has about a 30 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris and 50 percent Vaccinium myrtillus (NVC H12). Descahmpsia flexuosa is frequent and there are occasional individuals of Blechnum spicant and Oreopteris limbosperma. To the north of this strip there is also scattered Pteridium aquilinum. Three small Sorbus aucuparia trees and one bush of Crataegus monogyna were also present. At the base of this steep slope there is a botanically interesting acidic/neutral flush (4). This is dominated by Juncus effusus and Sphagnum recurvum and has abundant Equisetum sylvaticum, occasional Cardamine pratensis, Cirsium palustre, Galium palustre, Athyrium filix-femina, Potentilla erecta, Epilobium palustre and locally abundant Juncus articulatus, Oreopteris limbosperma and Viola palustris.

MANAGE:
The common had small numbers of grazing sheep present. These appear to favour the acidic grassland areas. The marshy grassland appeared generally rank and un-grazed, with very tussocky Molinia caerulea. The rights entry mentions only a right of pasture for cattle. The steep slope to the east has been fenced from the rest of the common. As mentioned above, this has dry dwarf shrub heath with 30 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris. This area is not open to grazing and therefore the plants are mature and show a good age structure. The acidic flush with abundant Equisetum sylvaticum is a particularly interesting feature, which has also benefited from the absence of grazing.


VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey but no relevant target notes were available and a field survey was therefore carried out. The common is a small plot of land, most of which is intensively managed by people living in adjoining properties, presumably landowners or rightholders. The main area around Cock Clough is 90 percent bare ground which has resulted from the keeping of pigs in this area. Locally there is some Agrostis capillaris dominated neutral grassland. In the centre of this area is a eutrophicated pond and the area to the south of here forms part of a garden. To the east is an unsurfaced track leading to farmland which has areas of Agrostis capillaris-dominated neutral grassland and Lolium perenne/Poa annua- dominated improved grassland with abundant Urtica dioica. The southern section comprises neutral grassland verges at the side of a minor metalled road. To the sides of this are tall un-managed hedgerows dominated by Crataegus monogyna and with occasional mature Fraxinus excelsior and Acer pseudoplatanus.

MANAGE:
Much of the management information for this site has already been discussed above. The overall impression is one of general untidiness with the disruption of vegetation caused by the pigs; elsewhere there is dumped material such as bits of old tractors. The main part of the common is heavily fenced-in and there were signs prohibiting access to this part, which was consequently not surveyed in detail.


FAUNA:
Rabbits were the only fauna recorded during the site survey.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1991. Only dominant species codes were available and a field survey was therefore done. The common is an area of mature woodland. The main canopy species are Quercus spp. and Alnus glutinosa with occasional Acer pseudoplatanus. To the East of the track, at the centre of the main block of woodland are two venerable individuals of Quercus robur. Beneath the main canopy are Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana (some of which appear to have been coppiced in the past) Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna and Ilex aquifolium. The field layer is generally fairly sparse in the main area of woodland. Locally frequent on sloping ground at (1) are Mercurialis perennis, Silene dioica and Ranunculus repens with locally occasional Digitalis purpurea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Carex remota, Potentilla sterilis, Lysimachia nemorum and Deschampsia cespitosa. There are numerous old coppice stools of Corylus avellana in this area. At the base of the slope (2) there is a small stream where the field layer is wet in character. This area has locally frequent Urtica dioica, Circaea lutetiana, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Geum urbanum, Rubus fruticosus agg., Oxalis acetosella, Viola riviniana and Dryopteris dilatata. To the west of the road (3) a drier ground flora with abundant Holcus lanatus and Deschampsia cespitosa. There are numerous coppices Corylus avellana and Alnus glutinosa here. Further north at (4) there is a small damp area of woodland dominated by Alnus glutinosa. The field layer has Mentha aquatica, Filipendula ulmaria, Angelica sylvestris, Iris pseudacorus and Veronica beccabunga.

MANAGE:
The common appears un-managed at present although it has been managed as a coppice wood in the past. The mature specimens of Quercus robur are a notable feature and may be an important invertebrate habitat. The surrounding area has several small blocks of woodland which as a network may be of ornithological importance.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were: Rabbits, Bluetit.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988 but no relevant target notes were available and so a full field survey was undertaken. There are four components to the common but three are minute. Most of the common is a mature plantation of Fagus sylvatica which occupies the narrow steep-sided valley of Cock Clough. There are scattered individuals of Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus petraea, Larix sp. and next to the stream Alnus glutinosa. There are quite a few fallen trees throughout the woodland. Beneath the main canopy, understorey trees include Sorbus aucuparia and Ulmus glabra. The most interesting part of the woodland lies to the north (1) where there is an understorey dominated by Agrostis capillaris and Holcus lanatus and with locally frequent Anthoxanthum odoratum, Stachys sylvatica, Deschampsia flexuosa, Geranium robertianum and Rumex acetosella. Adjacent to the north-eastern boundary, however, there is a small area of flush vegetation which has Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Stellaria alsine and Viola palustris. Next to the stream the field layer is locally more diverse and has Oxalis acetosella, Digitalis purpurea, Dryopteris dilatata, Athyrium filix-femina and Chrsosplenium oppositifolium. One flushed area next to the path has Galium palustre, Epilobium palustre, Carex echinata, C. demissa, C. ovalis, Ranunculus flammula and Lysimachia nemorum. A fence separates the southern portion of the woodland which is intensively grazed by sheep and consequently has a very restricted field layer. The three remaining plots of the common are contiguous with Cl 96 and their vegetation has been discussed under that common but are essentially a mosaic of rank neutral grassland and tall ruderal vegetation.

MANAGE:
The wooded part of the common is divided into two units by an internal fence. The southern section is grazed by sheep. The portions to the south are adjacent to properties and are generally tracks and drives or parts of their garden areas.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were:  Bluetit, Magpie.

VEG:
The common has not been covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey and a full field survey was therefore carried out. The site lies within Skelmersdale New Town and is completely surrounded by modern housing estates and roads. Interestingly the common is fringed by a band of semi-natural Oak woodland (1). Quercus robur is the dominant species growing to about 10m tall and toward the edges there are occasional mature Betula pendula, Castanea sativa, and Acer pseudoplatanus. The shrub layer has locally frequent seedling Sorbus aucupaira and occasional Ilex aquifolium and Populus tremula. The ground flora is locally dominated by Rubus fruticosus and Holcus lanatus; Agrostis capillaris, Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia flexuosa are locally frequent and there are occasional individuals of Dryopteris dilatata. This woodland appears to belong to NVC type W11. At the junction of woodland and grassland are clumps of Chamaenerion angustifolium and an introduced Reynoutria sp. At the north of this area of woodland are some planted individuals of Acer sp. and Sorbus sp. The southern part of the woodland (2) occupies a steep-sided valley around a narrow stream. Here Acer pseudoplatanus becomes the dominant canopy tree. The ground flora is fairly sparse with Holcus lanatus, Hedera helix, Teucrium scorodonia, Festuca gigantea, Luzula pilosa and Aegopodium podagraria. The woodland along the eastern side is once more dominated by Quercus robur. The field layer on this side is somewhat acidic in character with abundant Deschampsia flexuosa and occasional Vaccinium myrtillus. The narrow valley continues through this area and there is much bare ground beneath where children have attatched rope swings to trees. Along the valley bottom there is in parts an undershrub area with Corylus avallana, Ilex aquifolium and Crataegus monogyna. CL 299 is contiguous with this area of woodland. Along the northern boundary is a narrow band of trees including Quercus robur, Salix viminalis, S. cinerea, Corylus avellana and Betula pendula. The central portion of the common is grassland of various kinds. To the centre (3) is unimproved acidic grassland dominated by Agrostis capillaris with abundant Festuca ovina and locally frequent Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus and Molinia caerulea. Also present are occasional Achillea ptarmica, Juncus effusus, Rumex acetosa and R. acetosella. Locally there are small damp hollows with abundant Polygonum persicaria. To the edge of here a small area has a mosaic of Nardus stricta-dominated acidic grassland and immature dry dwarf shrub heath of Calluna vulgaris. Surrounding the central area is a band of unimproved neutral grassland, again dominated by Agrostis capillaris, but also with abundant Holcus lanatus, Phleum pratense and occasional Leontodon autumnalis. Within this area are scattered small individuals of Quercus sp. which appear to be colonising trees from the adjoining woodland.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged at present. There are a number of encroachments associated with the close proximity of housing estates. These include rope swings on trees with bare ground beneath and limited amounts of dumping (eg. old mattresses) in the wooded areas. The small amount of Calluna vulgaris on the common looks to have developed fairly recently as it is made up of immature plants all around 10cm tall. Most were flowering at the time of the survey. It is remarkable that this small remnant of semi-natural habitat still remains in such a heavily developed area.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were:  Skylark, Meadow Pipit, Kestrel. 
Small Heath Butterfly, Large Red Damselfly (seen near small pools in area 5).

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. However there were no relevant target notes and a full field survey was therefore carried out. The common occupies the summit plateau of Cowpe Lowe (439m) and sloping ground to the south. The summit has an expanse of dry-modified bog (1) dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum and with abundant Deschampsia flexousa (NVC M20). The vegetation is very tussocky and also has occasional Eriophorum angustifolium and Carex nigra.  E. angustifolium is also present in a bog pool from where a photograph was taken at (2). Toward the western edge of the plateau the bog grades into unimproved acidic grassland at (3). This grassland is mainly dominated by Nardus stricta with abundant Juncus squarrosus and Deschampsia flexuosa and in the extreme west and on the steep slope at (4) is joined by Agrostis capillaris and Festuca ovina (mainly NVC type U5). At the bottom of the slope there is an unmetalled track and a mosaic of dry-modified bog (50 percent of the area) acidic grassland (30 percent) and acidic flush vegetation around small pools (20 percent). The bog is a remnant similar to that on the summit. The grassland is also similar to that elsewhere but has frequent Juncus effusus in places. The acidic flushes are assocated with several small pools which have abundant Juncus effusus and frequent Sphagnum recurvum, Juncus articulatus, Glyceria fluitans and Eriophorum angustifolium.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. There appears to be no other form of active management.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site visit were:  Snipe, Curlew.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. The vegetation map and relevant target notes from this have been combined with information gathered during the present survey to produce the following report. The common occupies a hill top position. Much of the area has marshy grassland dominated by Molinia caerulea. Locally frequent are Carex nigra, Juncus squarrosus, J. effusus, Deschampsia flexuosa and Eriophorum angustifolium. This vegetation appears to be predominantly NVC type M25 but may be tending towards NVC M23 where Juncus effusus is prominent. Elsewhere there are tussocky patches of Eriophorum vaginatum which may represent remnants of blanket mire (NVC type M20). Intact species-poor blanket mire remains at (1) with abundant Eriophorum vaginatum, Molinia caerulea, Juncus squarrosus, and Sphagnum spp. Several species- rich areas of basin and valley mire are present on the site. At (2) is a basin mire dominated by Carex nigra, Sphagnum recurvum and Polytrichum commune with abundant Juncus articulatus, J.effusus, Molinia caerulea, Anthoxanthum odoratum and locally frequent Equisetum palustre, Carex echinata, C. panicea, C. demissa, Eriophorum angustifolium and E. vaginatum (NVC M6c). The central part of the mire is extremely wet and has frequent Carex rostrata, Mentanthes trifoliata, Ranunculus flammula, Potamogeton polygonifolius and Potentilla palustris (possibly NVC type M5). At (3) there is a valley mire with a somewhat similar species composition but lacking Carex rostrata and Potentilla palustris. Also recorded were Viola palustris and Caltha palustris. Leading from the valley mire is the narrow steep-sided valley of Collaver Syke (4). This and its associated tributary stream contain narrow acidic flushes, again with a very similar vegetation to the above. Carex rostrata is locally abundant and Epilobium palustre, Galium palustre, Lotus uliginosus and Lychnis flos-cuculi are also present. There are several small, largely peripheral areas of acidic grassland on the common, sometimes in a mosaic with acidic flush, as on the hillside at (5). This is generally dominated by Nardus stricta (NVC U5), with locally frequent Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus and Festuca ovina. A row of widely spaced Crataegus monogyna bushes runs along the hillside at (5) and may mark the course of an old hedgerow.

MANAGE:
The common is extensively grazed by sheep, forming part of a grazing unit with the contiguous common, CL 403W (which also has the same name). The boundary between the two units is a drystone wall which has collapsed in many places so that stock can wander freely between the two commons. The valley mire/basin mire/flush areas of the common are relatively species-rich and appear to be relicts of much more extensive mire areas. Much of the surrounding land has been drained, as has the area on the common at (6) and possibly other areas. The possibility of further drainage, coupled with the effects of continued heavy grazing may lead to a deterioration in the quality of the mire vegetation of the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna were observed during the site visit.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. The site is botanically interesting and no less than 5 individual target notes were available for this small site. The following report was compiled in conjunction with a site visit. The bulk of the common is a mosaic of marshy grassland and wet dwarf shrub heath (1). Molinia caerulea is the dominant grass reaching up to a 90 percent cover in the grassy areas. Calluna vulgaris is the dominant plant in the heathy areas reaching between 30-50 percent cover. Deschampsia flexuosa is frequent throughout and there is occasional Vaccinium myrtillus. This vegetation belongs to NVC type M25. In the north at (2) there is a pure stand marshy grassland dominated by tussocky Molinia caerulea with local tussocks of Juncus effusus and Deschampsia cespitosa. Again Deschampsia flexuosa is frequent with Galium saxatile and Potentilla erecta in places on the tops of Molinia tussocks. At (3) is an interesting basin mire which is an unstable mat of vegetation apparently floating on a body of water. This has abundant Sphagnum spp. and tussocks of Agrostis canina with frequent Eriophorum angustifolium, E. vaginatum, Potentilla palustris, Viola riviniana and Vaccinium oxycoccos and occasional Carex nigra and Epilobium palustre. This vegetation appears to have affinities with NVC type M5 although the community constant Carex rostrata was not present. Scattered individuals of Salix cinerea are also present. At the edges of the basin mire the vegetation becomes more stable and grades into the surrounding area. Molinia caerulea becomes dominant with frequent Juncus effusus and Polytrichum commune with locally abundant tussocks of Agrostis canina and occasional Narthecium ossifragum, Erica tetralix and Calluna vulgaris. At (4) is a flushed area of vegetation leading into the basin maire. This has abundant Juncus effusus and Deschampsia cespitosa, locally frequent Viola palustris, occasional Dryopteris dilatata, Holcus mollis, Galium palustre and Epilobium palustre. 
At the junction between area (4) and the basin mire Succisa pratensis occurs in abundance.  A population of 20-30 individuals of a species of Dactylorhiza is also present here. There are further small areas of flush in the south-east of the common. These are dominated by Juncus effusus, and Molinia caerulea. Frequently found are Achillea ptarmica, Potentilla erecta.  Succisa pratensis, Erophorum angustifolium and Deschampsia cespitosa with occasional Dryopteris dilatata, Epilobium palustre and Equisetum fluviatile.  Immediately next to the road there are also Juncus acutiflorus, Geum rivale and Cirsium palustre. Alongside the road to the east (5) the vegetation is mostly a mosaic of damp neutral grassland and tall ruderal vegetation.  Locally abundant species include Deschampsia cespitosa, Dactylis glomerata and Arrhenatherum elatius while locally frequent are Carex nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla erecta, Achillea ptarmica, Filipendula ulmaria, Geum rivale, Angelica sylvestris, Juncus articulatus, Equisetum palustre, Myosotis cespitosa, Epilobium hirsutum, Chamaenerion agustifolium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Lychnis flos-cuculi and Valeriana dioica. This is mainly a sward of NVC type MG9, possibly grading into MG1 in the drier areas.  In one small patch next to the road, Cirsium helenoides was recorded in 1988. In the south-eastern corner (6) is a patch dominated by tall ruderal vegetation (90 percent of the area) with the remainder as scattered scrub and unimproved neutral grassland.  The dominant plants are Chamaenerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Cirsium arvense and Urtica dioica. The most frequent grasses are Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia cespitosa and Agrostis capillaris. Other frequent species include Carex flacca, Prunella vulgaris, Vicia cracca, Trifolium pratense and Filipendula ulmaria with occasional Angelica sylvestris, Carex hirta, Centaurea nigra, Lathyrus pratensis, Heracleum sphondylium, Stachys sylvatica, Phalaris arundinacea, Silene dioica and a small clump of a Reynoutria sp.  The scrub species include Salix cinerea, S. aurita and Alnus glutinosa.

MANAGE:
The common is un-managed at present and the vegetation is rank and tussocky.  There are occasional bare-ground pull-ins at the edge of the metalled road to the east.  Callluna vulgaris varies between a 30-50 percent cover on the main part of the common. Plants are fairly even-aged, to about 40m tall in places, and most having a good crop of flowers at the time of the survey.  The mire vegetation on the common appears complex in terms  of the vegetation communities present.  It would be valuable if further study, including detailed quadrat information, could be gathered from this site.


FAUNA:
Recorded during site survey were: Flock of Swallows, Flock of Housemartins, Kestrel (hovering), Meadow Pipits, Pheasant, Red Admiral and Peacock butterflies.

VEG:
The common was covered by the Lancashire Phase 1 survey in 1988. The survey maps for only part of the site could be found. This information has been combined with that gathered during the field survey to produce the following report. The common occupies the plateau area of Darwen Hill and is sandwiched between two portions of CL 156. Much of the plateau (1) has a layer of dry-modified bog. This is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum with abundant Deschampsia flexuosa. There is a good cover of Calluna vulgaris ranging from 40-90 percent. Vaccinium myrtillus is locally abundant at around 40 percent cover. There is also locally abundant Empetrum nigrum. This vegetation belongs to NVC type M20. At (2) Molinia caerulea is dominant with a 30 percent cover each of Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus and there is locally frequent Deschampsia flexuosa and Eriophorum vaginatum (NVC type M25). To the north of the common there is a steep slope off the plateau. Toward the top dry-modified bog gives way in places to a mosaic of dry dwarf shrub heath and acidic grassland. Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus have a combined cover of 80 percent. The grassy patches are dominated by Nardus stricta. Pure stands of dry dwarf shrub heath occupy two small disused quarries at the top of the slope dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus (NVC type H12). At the base of the hillside the vegetation becomes wet in character. At (4) there is a region of Molinia caerulea-dominated grassland within which there are patches (30 percent) of wet heath of Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus. Deschampsia flexuosa and Nardus stricta are locally frequent. Area (4) is a strip of wet heath of 70 percent Calluna vulgaris and 30 percent Vaccinium myrtillus with abundant Molinia caerulea throughout. Also present are occasional individuals of Ulex gallii, Betula pendula, Ilex aquifolium and Sorbus aucuparia. At the foot of the slope (5) is marshy grassland, dominated by Juncus acutiflorus, Holcus lanatus and H. mollis and 40% percent acidic flush. The marshy grassland also contains occasional Deschampsia cespitosa, Dryopteris dilatata, Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus. The acidic flush spreads diffusely through the area and is dominated by Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus and Sphagnum recurvum (NVC M6c). Locally abundant are Narthecium ossifragum, Viola palustris, Succisa pratensis, Polytrichum commune, Equisetum sylvaticum and occasional Oreopteris limbosperma. At the foot of the hill at the edge of the common is a small channel with flowing water which has abundant Glyceris fluitans. There are scattered bushes of Ilex aquifloium along the edge of the common at this point. In the north-east at (6) a well used and eroded path runs up the hill through a mosaic of acidic grassland and dry dwarf shrub heath. The acidic grassland occupies 75 percent of the area and is dominated by Nardus stricta with locally frequent Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris and Juncus effusus (NVC U5). Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus have a combined cover of 20 percent. At the boundary of the common are occasional bushes of Ulex europaeus, Ilex aquifolium and Crataegus monogyna. To the south of here is a narrow strip of similar vegetation, but this time Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus together account for 70 percent of the ground cover. There are also occasional small trees of Sorbus aucuparia in this area. At (8) the heath becomes wet in character with abundant Molinia caerulea, while in the valley bottom there is an interesting complex of acidic flushes. Juncus effusus and Sphagnum recurvum dominate, with locally frequent to abundant Eriophorum angustifolium, E.vaginatum, Succisa pratensis, Carex panicea, Cirsium palustre, Achillea ptarmica, Juncus articulatus, J. acutiflorus, Potentilla erecta, Epilobium hirsutum, Viola palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris and Holcus mollis (NVC M6c). The southern side of the valley has dry dwarf shrub heath with a 90 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus, with frequent Deschampsia flexuosa (NVC H12). The south-eastern corner has a similar range of heath types to those in (7) and (8). The dry dwarf shrub heath on the valley side at (9) has 40 percent Calluna vulgaris, 60 percent Vaccinium myrtillus and a combined 25 percent cover of Nardus stricta and Deschapmsia flexuosa. Scattered bushes of Ulex gallii are present. The wet heath/marshy grassland adjoining this has 30 percent Calluna vulgaris, 20 percent Vaccinium myrtillus and 60 percent Molinia caerulea.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged. There are 8 registered rights of pasture for cattle and sheep, but there was no sign of recent grazing. The common is fenced from CL 156 which is grazed. There is a good cover of Calluna vulgaris on the site. Detailed information on ground cover is given above. However, the main plateau, with blanket bog (1), has many areas with a 90 percent cover of Calluna vulgaris, especially to the south. In the north this falls to between 40-50 percent cover. A good view of the overall cover of Calluna can be gained from the top of the Jubilee Tower. From here a profuse flowering of the plants was evident at the time of the survey. The plants are generally very healthy, being somewhat even-aged, around 20cm tall. This feature may represent a recovery of the species after a relaxation of a previously high grazing pressure. On the peripheral areas of dry and wet heath there is a similar picture although the plants are generally taller, reaching 40cm in places.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: curlew, jackdaw, meadow pipit.

VEG:
Only High Lane (SE 031 881 to SE 066 874) and Nossil End Quarry (SE 047 881) were surveyed on foot (PD). Survey information shown on the map for Renhill Crags (SE 050 869) is from the YDNP Phase 1 habitat survey. There is no survey information for the remaining two small sections.

Along High Lane, the grass verges on each side of the track contain areas of semi-improved acidic, neutral and calcareous grassland. Neutral grassland occupies the easternmost 200m, where there is rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Cynosurus cristatus, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Poa} spp., with locally frequent {\it Conopodium majus, Cruciata laevipes, Geranium robertianum, Lotus corniculatus, Mercurialis, perennis, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium pratense, T. repens} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There is scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}, with occasional young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. 

The remaining verges along High Lane are a mosaic of semi-improved acidic and neutral grasslands. The acidic grassland is dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. This grades into areas of calcareous grassland dominated by {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus}, with frequent {\it Briza media, Poa} spp., {\it Conopodium majus, Geranium molle, Galium verum, Helianthemum nummularia, Pilosella officinarum, Lotus corniculatus, Poterium sanguisorba} and {\it Thymus} sp. Calcareous grassland is most frequent at the western end of the track, where there is exposed limestone - unlike the rest of the track, the sward is generally short here (less than 10cm), suggesting frequent sheep grazing. 

The northen half of Nossill End Quarry (disused) contains short, calcareous grassland similar to that described above for High Lane. The southern half contains dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica}, with scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Sambucus nigra, Ribes} sp. and {\it Rosa canina}, plus occasional {\it Geum urbanum, Lamium album} and {\it Meconopsis cambrica}.

MANAGE:
The two sections surveyed are used for sheep grazing. It is very likely that Renhill Crags is also used for sheep grazing.


FAUNA:
No information relating to the fauna of this particular common, which was not visited during the course of the present survey.

VEG:
The common forms part of a block of upland commons lying in the area between Buckden and Aysgarth. The area was covered by the NCC survey of upland habitats by Ratcliffe and Birks, undertaken during 1984. It is recognised that this source of information is now rather out of date. However, there was insufficient time to update this survey during the course of the present project, although ideally this should be done.

The survey method places vegetation into distinct vegetation communities/habitats that can generally be easily translated into Phase 1 and also provides some indication of species composition.

The common is situated on a plateau known as Bishopdale Gravel. To the eastern side there is blanket peat. To the south this appears to belong within the Phase 1 category of 'E18' - dry modified bog. The blanket mire is represented by two different community types. The first and most prominent is what looks like typical species-poor Pennine blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with sparse dwarf shrubs due to burning and grazing. There are also smaller areas of a type where {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} has replaced {\it Calluna vulgaris}, also due to burning. 

The northern part of the plateau, however, supports a mosaic of the {\it V. myrtillus} type of blanket bog, together with a community characterised by co-dominant {\it Calluna} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, taken to be intact blanket mire (i.e. Phase 1 'E161').

The edge of the plateau is marked by a steep step along the north-eastern side, leading onto a terrace above Dale Head Scar, which supports acidic grassland characterised either by {\it Nardus stricta} or an {\it Agrostis/Festuca} sward. There are also localised areas of acidic/neutral flushing present, these being dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. 

Along West Pasture Scar, which marks the step down from the main plateau (and is presumably composed of Carboniferous limestone), is a narrow strip of calcicolous grassland dominated by {\it Sesleria caerulea} (nationally scarce) and {\it Festuca ovina}.

MANAGE:
No management information available, but probably grazed by sheep.


VEG:
This common appears to be all blanket bog with some {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Juncus squarrosus, Sphagnum} spp. {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, Wood Pigeon. Several rabbit holes were seen.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by mature {\it Betula pendula} (some are old 
coppiced trees), with occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Pinus 
sylvestris}. There is some regeneration old {\it B. pendula}. The understorey is composed of occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Salix} sp. and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} (mostly situated near the edges of the canopy). 

The ground is covered with leaf litter, interspersed with scattered 
patches of {\it Molinia caerulea, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Dryopteris 
dilatata} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, plus occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} (very old, spindly plants), {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Narcissus} sp. (cultivated).

At the edge of the canopy along the public road, there is a strip of 
grassland dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}, with frequent {\it Holcus mollis, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Stellaria holostea}, plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Listera ovata, Ranunculus ficaria, Stachys officinalis} and {\it Viola riviniana}.

MANAGE:
Appears to be ungrazed. Some standing dead wood has been left {\it in situ}.                              

This common may once have been a small area of heathland which became overgrown with {\it Betula} spp. due to lack of grazing.


FAUNA:
Several Common Blue, Meadow Brown, and small Tortoiseshell butterflies were seen, and numerous grasshoppers (in long grass along the road and river). The following birds were noted: Chaffinch, Chiffchaff, House Sparrow, Yellowhammer.

VEG:
The dry heath in the southern half of the common is dominated by mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} (cover is in the range 60 to 70 per cent) with locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile} and {\it Rumex acetosella}, plus occasional {\it Molinia caerulea}. This is fringed with stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

The {\it Salix} sp.-dominated scrub on lower ground near the River Washburn contains occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Ulex europaeus} and young {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Sorbus aucuparia} trees. The ground is very wet in places and there is a diverse ground flora dominated by {\it Holcus mollis}, with locally frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Anemone nemorosa, Equisetum palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Lotus pedunculatus, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Plagiomnium} sp., {\it Ranunculus repens} and {\it Rumex acetosa}, plus occasional {\it Cirsium palustre, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Juncus effusus} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. Most of these species were also found in strips of wet {\it Holcus lanatus} dominated grassland along the road and river bank.   

On the north side of the river, there is a rock face about 12m high, which supports frequent {\it Luzula sylvatica} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, with occasional {\it Blechnum spicant, Corylus avellana, Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}.


VEG:
The sward is generally short (less than 10cm) due to intensive sheep grazing. It is a mostly mixture of {\it Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Galium saxatile} and {\it Trifolium repens}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, Blue Tit, House Sparrow, Starling. Several Large White and Small Tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

VEG:
The scrub in the southern section is mostly {\it Salix cinerea}, with 
frequent {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Rosa canina} and coppiced {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.The tall herb vegetation around the edges of the tarmac is a mixture of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with occasional {\it Alliaria petiolata, Barberea vulgaris} and {\it Arctium} sp.

{\it Ulex europaeus} occupies most of the northern section, with frequent 
{\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., and scattered {\it A. pseudoplatanus} saplings. Near the road, there are patches of tall herb vegetation dominated by {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with scattered (planted) saplings ({\it Acer campestre, Betula pendula, Sorbus aucuparia}). Along the edge of the road, there is a strip of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius/Dactylis glomerata}-dominated grassland with frequent {\it Alchemilla} sp., {\it Centaurea nigra, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Plantago lanceolata}, plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium}.

MANAGE:
The southern section is used for the storage of road materials, and some coppicing of the surrounding {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} has been carried out. The northern section appears to be unmanaged, apart from the planting of saplings near the road.


VEG:
There is dense {\it P. aquilinum} on the west-facing hill with scattered {\it Betula} spp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} saplings, {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa canina} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} with occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris} patches on the slope. At the base of the slope there is a mire/marshy area with {\it Molinea caerulea, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Sphagnum} spp. The {\it M. caerulea} was generally growing between large areas of {\it Calluna vulgaris} (40 - 60 cm. high). In some places there is {\it Erica tetralix, Polytrichum commune} and {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}. There are occasional patches of {\it Sphagnum} spp. and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} which have some {\it Vaccinium oxycoccus, Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum palustre} and occasional {\it Quercus} sp. seedlings. Most of this area is fringed with {\it Betula pubescens} which is encroaching on the mire area.

MANAGE:
No active management. Scrub encroachment of mire should be inhibited.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Lapwings, Pheasant, Geese.

VEG:
Most of the common is dry heath with extensive {\it Calluna vulgaris}, frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Empetrum nigrum}. There is some mature heath of up to 40 cms. in height and some burnt areas with active regeneration. Over there areas there is scattered {\it Juncus squarrosus} and in wetter parts {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Juncus] spp. Ditches on the common are often colonized by dense {\it Juncus} spp. with {\it Polytrichum commune, Eriophorum angustifolium, Eriophorum vaginatum}. Parts along the northern boundary are burnt low so that heath regeneration is limited and there is substantial moss growth. There are flushes that are dominated by {\it Sphagnum} spp.e.g {\it S. cuspidatum, S. auriculatum, S. recurvum?} as well as {\it E. tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, J. squarrosus, P. commune, Carex panicea}.

MANAGE:
Managed for sheep grazing (and shooting) by heather burning.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, Blue Tit, Carrion Crow, Robin, Swallow.

VEG:
Mown amenity grassland occupies level ground above the riverbanks, 
which support occasional {\it Salix fragilis, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} trees, with scattered {\it Salix cinerea, S. caprea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Patches of {\it Urtica dioica, Aegopodium podagraria, Alliaria petiolata} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} are frequent in the ground flora on the banks; they are interspersed with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Convolvulus arvensis, Epilobium hirsutum, Galium aparine} and {\it Ranunculus repens}, plus occasional {\it Geranium pratense}. Along the waters edge, there are occasional stands of {\it Impatiens glandulifera} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}. Wire fencing runs along the boundaries opposite the riverbanks. The adjacent land is sheep/cattle grazed pasture.

MANAGE:
Used as amenity grassland. It would be desirable to retain vegetation on the river banks (especially scrub and overhanging trees) as it 
provides cover for birds and small mammals.


VEG:
From very brief field notes:

There is a broad-leaved plantation just south of the minor road that crosses the common. The trees are still in tubes and include {\it Quercus robur, Pinus sylvestris}. Many appear to have failed. {\it Betula} spp. growing successfully.

Within an older plantation lies a small area of wet heath including {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Caltha palustris, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile}.

No details of other parts of the common available but on-site mapping refers to improved and semi-improved fields and other areas of {\it P. aquilinum} and tall ruderal species. There also planted fruit trees and non-native species such as {\it Kniphofia} sp.

MANAGE:
Managed as plantation woodland and fields for hay.


VEG:
The semi-improved acid grassland is a mixture of {\it Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Nardus stricta, Achillea millefolium, Galium saxatile, Juncus squarrosus, Poa} sp., {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Trifolium repens}. The sward is generally short (less than 10cm) due to intense sheep grazing. A small area of {\it Juncus effusus} marshy grassland, with frequent {\it Molinia caerulea} is situated in the central area of the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Black-headed Gull, Curlew, Pheasant.

VEG:
The woodland is dominated by mature standard {\it Quercus robur}, with occasional {\it Betula pubescens}. There is no understorey.  The ground flora is dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (dense, continuous stands) which is interspersed with scattered patches of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., plus occasional {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Hedera helix, Nardus stricta} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

MANAGE:
Used for sheep grazing. Continuous dry stone boundary walls surround the common.


FAUNA:
2 rabbits were seen, also the following birds: Blackbird, Common Gull, House Sparrow, Robin, Starling.

VEG:
The verges are a mixture of {\it Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Dactylis 
glomerata, Poa} spp., and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, with locally frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex crispus, R. acetosa, Stellaria holostea, Vicia sepium, Veronica chamaedrys, Potentilla 
anserina, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Centaurea nigra}, plus occasional {\it Bromus hordeaceus, Geranium pratense, Lamium purpureum} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius}. 

There are discontinuous, trimmed hedges up to 1m high on both sides of 
the road. They are dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna}, with locally 
frequent {\it Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and 
{\it Sambucus nigra}, plus occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. The ground flora under the hedgerows is dominated by {\it Hedera helix}, with locally abundant {\it Ranunculus ficaria} plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum}. Along the hedgerows there are discontinuous stands (up to 2m wide) of {\it Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Alliaria petiolata}, with occasional {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
The verges and hedgerows are cut at least once a year. The adjacent fields are improved grassland and arable.


VEG:
The northern section of this 'road verge' common includes a wider area to the west of the road with grassland of {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Galium aparine, Filipendula ulmaria, Heracleum sphondylium, Achillea millefolium, Potentilla anserina, Galium cruciata, Lotus uliginosus, Stellaria holostea, Rumex acetosa, Conopodium majus, Ajuga reptans, Alliaria petiolata} backed by bushes of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rosa} spp. There are also some {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus} sp. The eastern side of the road has a {\it P. spinosa/Sambucus nigra} hedge and ground flora of {\it Hedera helix, Ranunculus ficaria, Geranium robertianum, Arum maculatum, Urtica dioica, Lonicera periclymenum, Lamium purpurea, Geum urbanum}. There are trees of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Ulmus glabra}.

The southern section of the common has discontinuous trimmed hedgerows that include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Ulmus glabra, Malus} sp. Ground flora includes {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Stachys sylvatica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Aegopodium podograria}.

MANAGE:
No active management other than mowing of verges.


FAUNA:
Birds noted during survey: Crow, Dunnock, Wren.

VEG:
Similar to the contiguous CL 189 this is a common of verges with poor semi-improved grassland backed by hedges and scrub. In some areas the latter is pure {\it Prunus spinosa}. In the village of Old Byland there are old mature {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and the trimmed hedges are composed of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} with occasional {\it Rosa} spp. {\it Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior}. Ground flora species include {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Mercurialis perennis, Knautia arvensis, Trifolium repens, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Plantago} spp. {\it Galium verum, Viola canina, Lotus corniculatus}.

MANAGE:
Hedges trimmed at some points, some verges mown.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, Swallow.

VEG:
This common was not surveyed first hand. The upland vegetation survey refers to this area as marshy grasslands fringed by acidic grasslands and some small areas of dry heath. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} has invaded some areas.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, House Sparrow, Jackdaw.

VEG:
There are scattered patches of {\it Cirsium} sp. and {\it Urtica dioica} on the common, and scattered scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa}). The common is bounded by broad, discontinuous hedgerows dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. The hedgerow on the northern and eastern sides contain mature standard {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing, about 20 were seen.


VEG:
Description:

Grass Wood is situated on the west and south-facing slopes of a bench of
Carboniferous Limestone in Upper Wharfedale. Throughout the wood the underlying rock outcrops are scar, scree and pavement. Although the structure of the woodland has been extensively modified by replanting, the outstandingly rich ground flora, for which the site is principally valued, has persisted.

The woodland is believed to be of ancient origin and its original composition is thought to have been {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Ulmus glabra} and {\it Quercus} sp. (probably {\it Quercus petraea}) with an understorey of coppiced {\it Corylus avellana}.
During the last century the lower slopes were interplanted with {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, and in the 1960s the north-eastern
remainder was replanted with {\it Picea abies, Larix decidua, Pinus sylvestris} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. None of the plantations has been cleaned so the present stand is a thicket of planted saplings, natural regeneration of many {\it A. pseudoplatanus} and {\it F. excelsior}, and a variable canopy of {\it {\it F. excelsior, A. pseudoplatanus, Ulmus glabra} and {\it Quercus petraea}.

The woodland flora is extremely rich and diverse, providing some interesting
contrasts. Plants associated with well-drained situations are prevalent, and, as a result of localised variation in soil conditions, these include calcifuges such as {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, as well as calcicoles such as {\it Convallaria majalis, Rubus saxatilis) and {\it Melica nutans}.   On the scree slopes local gleying of the soil occurs and species usually associated with waterlogged situations occur including {\it Valeriana officinalis}     and {\it Angelica sylvestris}, while the conditions of the rides favour a meadow flora characterised by the occurrence of {\it Sanguisorba officinalis, Cirsium helenioides, Alchemilla glabra}. Associated with limestone outcrops are several locally uncommon species including {\it Sorbus rupicola} and {\it Polygonatum odoratum}; in more open situations, a limestone grassland flora has developed in which {\it Sesleria caerulea} is
accompanied by herbs such as {\it Helianthemum nummularium, Geranium sanguineum, Sanguisorba minor} and {\it Stachys officinalis).

Other Information

1. This site forms part of 'Conistone Old Pasture and Bastow 'wood' listed in 'A Nature Conservation Review' edited by D A Ratcliffe (1977).  Cambridge University Press, and was notified as part of an SSSI under the same name in 1975.

2. It is adjacent to Bastow Wood SSSI and Conistone Old Pasture SSSI.

3. Grass Wood is managed as a nature reserve by the Yorkshire Naturalists' Trust.

The common was also visited on 26 7 95 by a bryologist who noted:

On old lead workings:
{\it Homalia trichomanes, Isothecium mymurum/Isothecium myosuroides, Rhytidiadelphus triquetrus, Cirriphyllum crassinerum, Hypnum cupressiforme} var. {\it lacunosum, Trichostomum crispulum, Plagiochila asplenioides, Hylocomnium brevirostre, Lophocolea bidentata, Weissia} sp. {\it Campylopus paradoxus, N. crispa, Riccsia sorocarpa, Riccardia multifida, Weissia controversia} var. {\it densifolia, Bryum} sp. {\it Dicranella varia, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Pleurozium schreberi, Ctenidium molluscum, Hypnum jutlandicum, Eurynchium striatum, R. squarrosus, Tortella tortuosa, Thuidium tamariscinum, Neckera complemata, Fissidens cristatus/taxifolius, Mnium hornum, Pseudoscleropodium purum, Brachythecium rutabulum, Dicranum scoparius, Dicranum majus, Hylocomnium splendens, Polytrichum formosum}.

Other higher plants noted were {\it Hypericum} sp.{\it Lysimachia nemorum, Malva moschata, Helleborus} sp. {\it Anemone nemorosa, Convallaria majalis, Geranium} sp., {\it Veronica officinalis, Galium sterneri, Geranium sanguineum}.

MANAGE:
Managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust for conservation.


FAUNA:
None recorded during brief field survey. Breeding peregrines are noted for the Ingleborough SSSI area.

VEG:
Much of this common is limestone pavement. Within the pavement the following species were noted: {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium, Mercurialis perennis, Danthonia decumbens, Thymus} sp., {\it Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, Urtica dioica, Anemone nemorosa}. Surrounding grasslands are dominated by {\it Danthonia decumbens} and there is {\it Polystichum} sp., {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Briza media, Molinia caerulea, Alliaria ursinum, Linum catharticum}.

The common is part of the Ingleborough SSSI. The citation for this quoted below:

'Ingleborough is Britain's finest karst area, the characteristic limestone landforms have been produced largely under glacial conditions. It is particularly noted for extensive limestone pavements, dry valleys and gorges, shakeholes and sinkholes, including Gaping Gill which is 105m. deep and has within it the highest single-drop waterfall in Britain. Many of these features are classic teaching examples. More than 50kms. of cave passages have been mapped underground, interesting not only for their scale and diversity, but also for the evidence they provide on the evolution of the Pennine landscape since the beginning of the Ice Age. A spectacular unconformity is seen at Arcow Wood Quarry, where the Carboniferous limestone rests upon folded Silurian and Ordovician rocks.

Associated with the various acidic and basic strata, together with drift and peat which obscure the rocks over large areas, there is a wide range of vegetation types. Where limestone occurs at the surface, there is a calcareous grassland dominated by {\it Sesleria caerulea} while elsewhere blanket-bog is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. Where flushing occurs the blanket bog becomes floristically richer with {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccus} and {\it Narthecium ossifragum}.

There is a fine series of limestone pavements: at Colt Park the pavement is tree covered and dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} while at Southerscales the lower wooded parts are characterized by {\it Coryllus avellana}, {\it Geranium sanguineum} gives way above to a more montane flora including {\it Dryopteris villarii, Gymnocarpium robertianum} and {\it Actaea spicata}. Scar Close demonstrates a unique combination of acidic and calcicolous species: islands of peat on the pavement support {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum} together with {\it Convallaria majalis}. On the Moughton pavements, extensive {\it Juniperus communis} occurs.

The crags of the summit plateau support an arctic-alpine flora with {\it Saxifraga oppositifolia, S. aizoides, Sedum rosea, Poa alpina}. Within the site there are several localities for the endemic {\it Arenaria norvegica} spp. {\it anglica}.'

Also noted by the surveyor were the following species: 

Bryophytes on limestone outcrops {\it Tortuella tortuosa, Isothecium myosoroides}. In and around limestone pavement {\it Asplenium trichomanes, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Polystichum aculeatum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Asplenium ruta-muraria, Cystopteris fragilis}. Also {\it Sanicula europaea, Coryllus avellana} (grazed to the level of the pavement), {\it Crataegus monogyna} (grazed to the level of the pavement). {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercuralis perennis, Oxalis acetosella}. The dry calcareous grasslands support {\it Euphrasia} agg. {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Thymus} sp. {\it Carex paniculata, Linum catharticum, Polygala} sp. {\it Helianthemum chamaecistus}.


FAUNA:
Birds:- The woodland and scrub areas support typical species of small birds. Tufted Duck, Mallard and Coot occur on the pond.

VEG:
The common is predominately scrubby woodland  with some open grassland and a small pond. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland dominates the wide verges on the northern part of the site. Well-spaced Oaks form the canopy with some multi-stemmed Ash on the margins. Beneath is a mixture of Hazel, Elder, Grey Willow and young trees, with Elm locally abundant. Gorse is occasional. The ground flora is dominated by Urtica dioica where there is sufficient light, but areas of shade and deep leaf litter have occasional clumps of fern. Lonicera periclymenum and Hedera helix occur as climbers over the trees. There is no sign of the pond. 
(2) B22. The mown verges support neutral grassland of Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Agrostis sp and Festuca sp, with few herbs, although Pulicaria dysenterica, U. dioica, Centaurea nigra and Rubus fruticosus occur in uncut areas. 
(3) G1. The pond contains water, but appears to be quite shallow. Sparganium erectum forms a central island and a band of marginal vegetation, but no other species are evident. The pond is full of leaf litter and some dead wood. It is surrounded by Oak woodland  over Hawthorn, Holly and Yew, with R. fruticosus and deep leaf litter.

MANAGE:
A strip of approximately 1.5m has been mown either side of the road: this is probably done by the Highways Authority. The verges outside the farm buildings are mown regularly and a Weeping Willow  tree has been  planted. The wooded areas are unmanaged. Recommended management would be to monitor the water quality of the pond, as the water seems very dirty, and may be receiving farm effluent, and to rectify any contamination. It may need dredging. The other pond  could be reinstated by clearing back the trees and dredging the site out.


FAUNA:
None noted, although the areas of scrubby woodland will provide a habitat for small birds in particular.

VEG:
The verges support woodland, grassland and tall herbs. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland occurs mainly on the south part of the common. It is dominated by Oak and some Birch, over Hazel, Blackthorn, young Elm, Goat Willow and Spindle. There is little ground flora, due to deep leaf litter. Hedera helix grows thickly over some of the trees. Small areas of Oak and Hazel occur on other parts of the site. 
(2) B22. The narrower verges are mown, herb-poor neutral grassland. 
(3) C31. Uncut areas support tall herbs, dominated by Urtica dioica, with Heracleum sphondylium, Artemisia vulgaris, Centaurea nigra and Cirsium arvense locally abundant. Coarse grasses occur amongst the herbs, and Rubus fruticosus and Pteridium aquilinum are present. The tall herbs are also associated with scattered scrub especially Elder.

MANAGE:
The verge immediately adjacent to the road is mown, presumably by the Highways Authority. The verge is mown short outside buildings, and is used for parking by the cottage at the northern end. The footpath is signed where it crosses the common. The wooded areas are unmanaged  and, as they provide dense cover for birds and small mammals, do not really need management, although some thinning would improve the ground flora.


FAUNA:
No animals were seen or heard during the visit, but the woodland must support a number of species of small birds and mammals.

VEG:
Sweet Chestnut and Hazel coppice under Oak standards. The majority of the site is over-grown Sweet Chestnut and Hazel coppice under occasional Oak standards. Birch and Sweet Chestnut standards also occur, but are rare, and some multi-stemmed Birch and Hawthorn are present. There is little ground flora, due to dense shade and leaf litter, although mosses occur on dead stumps, and on Sweet Chestnut stools and the lower trunks of Oak trees. Where the canopy is more open, there is a patchy ground flora of Teucrium scorodonium, Rubus fruticosus and Lonicera periclymenum. Towards the eastern corner, the Oak standards occur over a dense growth of young Oak and Silver Birch, and abundant Gorse. Young Beech, Hazel and Holly bushes are scattered, and there are occasional old coppice stools. The wood has been dug in the past, as there are several small  shallow pits which are now full of leaf litter. There is abundant dead wood.

MANAGE:
The woodland has been managed in the past as coppice with standards: the main crop being Sweet Chestnut and Hazel poles. The coppice is now overgrown and dark. The eastern end appears to have been cleared more recently, as there are very few coppice stools and dense growth of birch and scrub. The common was fenced, but the fence is now defunct. The grassy access track has been blocked at the road end, and a ditch dug around the boundary of the common, to prevent access.
Recommended management would be to rework the coppice in rotation, leaving the standard trees to grow on. The site has abundant dead wood and this should be left. A small amount of tipping has occurred, and this should be removed, and further tipping discouraged.


VEG:
The common consists of wooded strips, scrub and grassland. 
(1) B22. Semi-improved neutral grassland. The mown verges are dominated by Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata and Agrostis sp. Common herbs such as Ranunculus repens and Rumex sp occur, and uncut areas also have small amounts of Epilobium hirsutum and Urtica dioica, but the grassland is essentially herb-poor. 
(2) A21. Scrub of multi-stemmed Grey Willow and young Ash, with abundant Rubus fruticosus. Oak, Beech and Ash are occasional. 
(3) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland occurs on the wider verges at the northern end of the site. The area west of the road consists of Oak standards, multi-stemmed Ash and Oak, and some large boundary trees over Hazel, Blackthorn, Hawthorn and young Beech. The ground flora includes Hedera helix, Rosa arvensis, Mercurialis perennis, Stellaria holostea, Bromus ramosus and seedlings. East of the road is a thin strip of Oak, Hazel and Holly.

MANAGE:
A strip of verge approximately 0.5m wide is mown adjacent to the road, presumably by the Highways Department. The rest of the site is unmanaged, even though part of it borders actively managed woodland. There is no need for management, apart from the eradication of a clump of Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) from the verge, to prevent it spreading.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Blackbird, Woodpigeon. Invertebrates:- Small Copper, Red Admiral, Speckled Wood, Large White.

VEG:
The common has been much modified by recent management and comprises roads, tracks, gardens, and some semi-natural vegetation. 
(1) J5. The common is crossed by an access road to the houses, and by drives. Much of the site is short-grown grassland with scattered trees and shrubs, which form garden extensions. Some grassland has been partly reseeded. Oak, Ash, Lime and Hornbeam trees have been left. 
(2) C31. An area of tall herb at the eastern end. This is dominated by species such as Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium and Pulicaria dysenterica, with Arrhenatherum elatius and Holcus lanatus. Impatiens glandulifera, Iris pseudacorus, and Epilobium hirsutum occur by the eastern boundary, and some exotic species have been planted along the stream. Tall herbs also occur along the track to the north. 
(3) A111. Small areas of semi-natural broadleaved woodland. Mainly Oak over Hazel and dense Blackthorn, with a Pteridium aquilinum ground flora.

MANAGE:
The verges are generally mown  short and have been  reseeded in front  of the houses. Exotic shrubs have been planted. A track has been bulldozed through the woodland at (3i), leaving disturbed ground. The site is managed by the residents as an extension of their gardens, but could be improved for wildlife by occasional cutting of the tall herb areas, to prevent the vegetation becoming rank. All cuttings should be removed.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Robin, Great Tit,  Coal Tit, Blackbird,  Starling. 
Mammals:- Rabbit.

VEG:
The site consists of verges along a road and a track. These support strips of woodland, scrub and tall herbs. 
(1) A21. Continuous scrub. The wider verges support scrub of Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hazel and Field Maple, with some boundary Oaks. Tall herbs occur on the margins, and Pteridium aquilinum dominates clearings. Areas of dense scrub have deep leaf litter. In places, the scrub forms hedges, which are cut. Grey and Goat Willow occur near the streams. 
(2) A111. The areas of Semi-natural broadleaved woodland are dominated by Oak over Hazel and some Holly, with a ground flora of grasses and Rubus fruticosus. Storm damage has resulted in frequent dead wood. Alders occur along the stream. 
(3) C31. Tall herbs occupy uncut areas of verge  and the margins of woodland and scrub. The mown verges have neutral grassland of Deschampsia caespitosa, Agrostis and Holcus lanatus. One stream has patches of Iris pseudacorus and Callitriche.

MANAGE:
The verges are mown in places, leaving coarse neutral grassland. Trees and scrub have been cleared under power cables, and wind-thrown trees have been removed from the track. The hedges are cut. Some small scale tipping has occurred near the cottage. Access tracks have been made over the verges.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Blue Tit,  Jackdaw, Jay,  Woodpigeon, Sparrowhawk. 
Mammals:- Rabbit  Grey Squirrel.

VEG:
The site consists of the verges of several minor roads. A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The verges are generally wooded with Oak and Ash over Field Maple, Hawthorn, Hazel, Elm, Holly, Blackthorn and young trees. Elder is occasional. Where the verge is wider, the woodland is better developed, but consists of the same tree and shrub species. The ground flora varies with the amount of shade, with sparse Rubus fruticosus, Veronica chamaedrys, Viola riviniana and Brachypodium sylvatica under a closed canopy, and much Hedera helix, R. fruticosus and occasional Lonicera periclymenum where there is more light. Euphorbia amygdaloides occurs where the verge adjoins woodland. The trees have been cleared under power cables, but Hazel, Goat Willow and Gorse are regenerating over grasses, R.fruticosus and Pteridium aquilinum. Where the verges are unwooded, grasses and tall herbs such as Urtica dioica, Filipendula ulmaria and Epilobium hirsutum occur.

MANAGE:
The verges are mown in places, and the area  under the power cables has  been cleared and the cut wood burnt on site. Some small scale tipping has occurred. Apart from this, there is no management, and no management is needed, except to prevent further tipping.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Robin, Blue Tit, Swallow, House Martin, Starling. 
Mammals:- Rabbit. 
Invertebrates:- Wood Ants.

VEG:
The common consists of secondary woodland, and the wooded or grassy verges of a minor road. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland occurs on the wider verges at the northern and southern ends of the common. The northern part is open canopy woodland of large, mature Oak, abundant Birch and some Scot's Pine. The shrub layer is very dense in places, and consists of Holly, young Beech and Elm, with some Alder Buckthorn. Spindle and Rowan occur on the margins. The ground flora is dominated by Pteridium aquilinum with some Lonicera periclymenum, Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica, Teucrium scorodonium and Molinia caerulea. Regenerating Alder Buckthorn dominates the area under the power cables, with Birch and Gorse. The steep bank at the southern end supports Ash, with Oak, Birch, Elm, Hazel and Elder. 
(2) J5. The verges include surfaced drives and parking places, mown lawns, planted shrubs and some wooded areas.

MANAGE:
The woodland is unmanaged, but generally  has a good structure. The vegetation under the power cables has  been  cut, but is regenerating well. The verges have been very much modified, as they are crossed by drives, or have surfaced parking areas, or are managed as garden extensions by regular mowing. Some areas appear to have been reseeded as lawns, and shrubs have been planted. Logs have been placed to prevent parking.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Robin, Blue Tit, Nuthatch,  Blackbird. 
Mammals:- Rabbit. 
Invertebrates:- Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria).

VEG:
An area of storm-damaged secondary woodland. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The majority of the common is woodland, but it has been badly storm-damaged. The southern half and northern edge are most intact, with a canopy of Oak and occasional Sycamore. The shrub layer consists of Elder, Hawthorn, Holly and young Sycamore and Elder. The ground flora includes dense Rubus fruticosus and Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea, Lonicera periclymenum and Geranium robertianum. Holly and Hawthorn seedlings are frequent. The northern edge has some Beech amongst the Oak and Sycamore, with Hazel and Rhododendron under. The central area is very badly storm damaged, with occasional mature trees over tall herbs. Sycamore and Elder are regenerating well. Some exotic trees occur. 
(2) C11. Dense Pteridium aquilinum with occasional Beech and Holly over. 
(3) J5. The common is crossed by a surfaced track and by paths.

MANAGE:
The main track has been surfaced with gravel, and is used for access to the adjacent plantation. Most of the wind-thrown trees have  been removed, or the timber has been stacked by the  tracks, awaiting removal. A small amount of tipping has occurred. Some  replanting has been carried out in the past, as the woodland includes exotic species, such as  Copper Beech, Laurel, Rhododendron and Cotoneaster. The Rhododendron and Laurel should be eradicatted, as they spread rapidly, and suppress the native ground flora and natural regeneration of trees and shrubs. Sycamore may also need to be controlled, or it may come to dominate the  post-storm canopy,  and alter the original character  of the  woodland. If sycamore is controlled and the woodland is otherwise left to regenerate  naturally, the site should return to  its previous state of well-structured Oak woodland.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Robin,  Blue Tit,  Great Tit,  Magpie,  Jay, Pheasant. 
Mammals:- Rabbit.

VEG:
The common is predominately secondary woodland  but includes part of the cricket pitch, and a pond and stream. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The woodland is dominated by Oak, and varying amounts of Beech, Ash and Birch. Holly is abundant in the shrub layer, with occasional Hazel, Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Willow. The eastern area also has Crab Apple and Elder, and Yew occurs amongst Holly and Ash around the pond. Rubus fruticosus, Stellaria holostea, Primula vulgaris, Hedera helix and Digitalis purpurea occur in storm clearings, and Oxalis acetosella, Circea lutetiana and Lonicera periclymenum occur where there is more shade. The eastern part has deep leaf litter and a closed canopy, except in areas of storm damage. It has abundant dead wood. 
(2) B4. The site includes part of the cricket ground and a reseeded verge. 
(3) G2. The pond was dry at the time of the visit. It is a shallow basin, with Willow in the centre and over-hanging trees. Mentha aquatica, Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea, Solanum dulcamara and Veronica beccabunga occur.
(4) G2. The stream has been dug out recently, so has no aquatic flora.

MANAGE:
The cricket ground is closely mown, and  part of the verge  has been reseeded and is  managed as a lawn.  The woodland on the western part has surfaced tracks through it, and a hut. Some wood has been cut and stacked. The stream has been cleared  out. Storm timber has been cleared from both areas, although dead wood, in the  form of crowns and  small branches, has been left. The area under the power  cables has been cut. Tracks and footpaths are kept clear, and  public footpaths are signed.  Some tipping has  occurred, and this should be  prevented in the future. The pond could be restored  by clearing back overhanging trees and deepening it by dredging.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Robin, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Chaffinch, Tree-creeper, Nuthatch, Songthrush, Magpie, Carrion Crow, Wood Pigeon, Pheasant.
Mammals:- Rabbit, Grey Squirrel.

VEG:
The common consists of wooded and grassy verges and scrub. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland occurs on the wider verges and consists of Oak, Ash and occasional Cherry over a shrub layer of Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hazel, Holly, Field Maple and young trees. There is some standing and fallen dead wood. The ground flora is generally patchy Rubus fruticosus, Lonicera periclymenum and Pteridium aquilinum and tall herbs often occur on the margins. The western part of the track runs through woodland, so is lined by trees and shrubs. 
(2) A21. The main area of scrub is at the eastern end of the track where Willow forms a dense thicket with Blackthorn, Hazel, Field Maple and Ash. Part of the verge has tall Hazel, Hawthorn, Field Maple and Blackthorn scrub. 
(3) B22. Mown verges support herb-poor neutral grass-land. An uncut damp area has Juncus effusus, Pulicaria dysenterica and Mentha aquatica. 
(4) B4. A small area has been reseeded to form a lawn.

MANAGE:
The verge has been mown immediately adjacent to the road, and the public rights of way are signed. The area under the power lines is cleared periodically. There are several access tracks over the verges. A small area of verge has been reseeded and mown to form a lawn by a house.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Robin,  Nuthatch,  Long-tailed Tit,  Fieldfare, Magpie,  Jay,  Carrion Crow,  Woodpigeon, Green Woodpecker, Tawny Owl. Mammals:- Grey Squirrel, Rabbit.

VEG:
The common consists of ancient and secondary woodland, deciduous and conifer plantation, and some acid grassland and heath. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. Predominately Oak and Birch, with occasional Pine  and Rowan, Holly, Hazel and young trees under. The woodland to the south is badly storm-damaged  and young trees and shrubs are abundant in the clearings. Pteridium aquilinum dominates the ground flora, with frequent Rubus fruticosus and Hedera helix. Rhododendron is locally abundant. (2) A122. Conifer plantation. Mainly mature Pine and some Cupressus. Oak, Sweet Chestnut, Birch, Holly and Rowan are occasional, so the Pine was probably planted into existing broadleaved woodland. P. aquilinum is abundant beneath. 
(3) A112. There are several areas of Beech plantation with occasional Oak, Birch and Pine on the margins. 
(4) B11/D1. Short acid grassland with patches of Calluna vulgaris and Erica cinerea heath. Birch is scattered. Areas of Urtica dioica and Glechoma hederacea indicate that trees have recently been cleared.
(5) J5. Tracks.
(6) C11. P. aquilinum dominates open areas which are not grazed or cut.
(7) G1. The angling lakes have murky water and sparse vegetation. The central pond is overgrown, with little open water, but has Sphagnum lawn, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, I. pseudacorus, Myosotis sp., Cardamine flexuosa and rushes around it. The stream has well developed  marginal vegetation.

MANAGE:
Much of the common has been planted up with Conifers and Beech. The conifers at the  southern end have been thinned, cross-country fences constructed and rides cut through the bracken, but the rest of the woodland shows little sign of management. Fallen leaves have been cleared from paths and tracks, but have been left on other parts of the site. The two lakes on the boundary are used for angling.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Robin, Chaffinch, Swift, Blackbird, Woodpigeon and Sparrowhawk seen during site visit. A variety of other species have been recorded, including Tree Pipit, Spotted Flycatcher, Tree-creeper, Willow Warbler,  Nightjar and Great Spotted and Green Woodpeckers. Mammals:- Rabbit. 
Reptiles:- Common Lizard, Adder. 
Invertebrates:- The heathy areas and open sand support a range of common Bees, Wasps and Spiders.

VEG:
The common consists of deciduous and conifer woodland, Pteridium aquilinum, some heath and a small area of wet heath/bog. 
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The majority of the site is open canopy Silver Birch woodland, with some Oak, Sweet Chestnut and Pine mixed in. Pteridium aquilinum is abundant beneath and between the trees. The margins of the common support Oak woodland, with Beech locally abundant towards the north and west, and some Sweet Chestnut, Birch, Pine and Horse Chestnut. The shrub layer is predominately Holly and Hazel, and the ground flora is dominated by Rubus fruticosus and P. aquilinum. 
(2) C11. Continuous P. aquilinum dominates the unwooded areas, often with tall Ulex europaeus bushes and trees scattered. 
(3) A121. The areas of storm-damaged conifer woodland, which are probably self-seeded. 
(4) D1. Areas of dry heath are dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Erica cinerea, with Vaccinium myrtillus more local. The heath often forms a mosaic with acid grassland. Molinia caerulea and E. tetralix occur in wetter areas.
(5) E4. There  is a small area of bog on a spring line, with abundant Narthecium ossifragum and M. caerulea.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by WSCC and Fittleworth Parish Council, and is protected by byelaws. Management aims are to conserve habitats and to maintain a diverse and interesting environment, whilst encouraging recreational use. Heathland restoration is a priority, involving spraying and cutting of P. aquilinum,  clearing invasive scrub and trees and preventing establishment of seedlings. Footpaths are kept clear and signed, and seats and a car park provided. The woodland is generally unmanaged, although Cherry, Oak and Beech have been planted in the storm damaged conifer woodland, and dangerous trees have been removed adjacent to paths and roads.


FAUNA:
Birds:- House Martin, Marsh or Willow Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Wren, Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Jay, Magpie and Pheasant.
Mammals:- Rabbit. 
Invertebrates:- Ashna cyanea.

VEG:
Predominately woodland, with scrub, Bracken and grassland.
(1) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The woodland is secondary in origin, and its composition and structure reflects past management and possibly soils. The area east of the road is Oak, or Oak and Ash with old Hawthorn  and some Blackthorn, Hazel and Elder forming the shrub layer. The ground flora is scattered Pteridium aquilinum and Rubus fruticosus. The northern part of the site west of the road is similar, but the area to the south (1b) is open canopy Oak and Birch woodland. Hawthorn and Blackthorn are locally abundant, and dense  P. aquilinum and R. fruticosus dominate the ground flora. 1c) is Oak and Ash woodland, with Field Maple, Elder and Hawthorn scrub, and tall herbs and grasses. 
(2) A21. Scrub occurs especially on boundaries and wood margins. The main species are Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hazel and Elder, with Field Maple and Gorse more local, and Willow abundant by the dry stream.
(3) C11.  P. aquilinum dominates clearings, and is becoming established in the enclosures.
(4) J5. The common includes houses, gardens and drives. 
(5) B11. Rather coarse acid grassland occurs in areas kept free of P. aquilinum. One area has anthills, and may originate from the time when  the common was grazed.

MANAGE:
The area under the power lines  is cut regularly, and part of the track to the north has been planted over with conifers, but the majority of the woodland is unmanaged. (1b) was probably cleared in the past, leaving some Oak. Birch would have colonised the clearings following  a period of no management. The eastern part shows the most evidence of recent management, as it has small enclosures, sheds and stacked  wood. Areas adjacent to houses have been cleared and support short-mown grass. There are several surfaced drives. The site includes several houses and gardens, although these are probably mapping errors.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Blue Tit, Great Tit, Blackbird, Swallow, Woodpigeon, Buzzard. 
Mammals:- Mole

VEG:
The common consists of narrow road verges which carry woodland, scrub and tall herb communities. (1) A111. Generally narrow strips of Oak and some Ash, with a shrub layer of Hazel, Hawthorn, Field Maple, Spindle, young Beech and Sweet Chestnut. In places, there are few mature trees and the understorey species form areas of scrub. 1a) has been completely cleared, as has the adjacent Sand Copse. Some Sweet Chestnut is resprouting, but most of the wood has been cleared or burnt on site, leaving bare ground. Sand Copse is ancient woodland, so the strip of woodland on the common is likely to have been ancient too. 
(2) C31. Where the verge is uncut, it supports tall herbs and coarse grasses, including Urtica dioica, Eupatorium cannabinum, Centaurea nigra, Epilobium hirsutum and Armoracia rusticana. Rubus fruticosus and Pteridium aquilinum occur. The cut areas are neutral grassland.

MANAGE:
The verge is mown by the Local Authority. The woodland at (1a) has been completely cleared and  the wood burnt. Occasional storm damaged trees have been removed. There is some tipping, and the verge outside the cottage is used for storing wood and is mown to lawn.
The common is too small to manage properly, but it should be protected from indiscriminate clearance, encroachment and tipping.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Yellow Hammer, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Turtle Dove and a variety of garden birds recorded for the scrub. Meadow Pipit and Skylark occur on open ground. 
Mammals:- Rabbit. 
Inverebrates:- The small areas of herb-rich grassland and bare ground are best for invertebrates. There is a good snail fauna  including the Blind Snail, Moss Snail and the Large Chrysalis Snail. Chalkhill Blue butterflies occur. The taller vegetation supports common species of Click-beetles, Craneflies and flies. Scorpion flies and Leave Weevils occur in the scrub.

VEG:
The steep slopes support herb-poor chalk grassland, with scattered scrub. The land to the south is arable. 
(1) The southern slopes are arable at present, but have been undersown with a grassland mixture. (2) B31. The majority of the escarpment is unimproved chalk grassland, forming part of a much larger, nationally important site. The grassland is poor in herbs due to its generally northern aspect, the deep soils which modify the influence of the underlying chalk, and enrichment from agricultural run-off. It is rather coarse, dominated by Bromus erectus, Brachypodium pinnatum and Dactylis glomerata. There are areas of species-rich grassland around the old pits, or the banks of tracks, where the soil is thinner and the aspect more variable. A small area of chalk grassland also occurs on a steep bank within the arable land. 
(3) A21/22. Hawthorn scrub is scattered over the grassland, with some Ash and Rosa canina. Dense well-structured scrub of Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Dogwood, young Ash and R. canina occurs along the northern boundary.

MANAGE:
Part of the chalk grassland is cattle-grazed, and there are plans to graze the whole area with cattle. The proposed stocking levels are high, to graze down the coarser grasses, and recreate a finer sward  in which herbs can re-establish, but the situation is monitored. Scrub is not a problem at present: in fact it is a valuable habitat for birds. The arable land has been undersown with a mixture of grasses, to recreate an open sward when the final barley crop is taken in 1989. It is hoped that herbs and grasses will become established from the surrounding downland, thereby increasing the area of calcareous grassland. The project is seen as an experiment in chalk grassland recreation, and is being carefully monitored.


FAUNA:
The NT has more detailed species lists. 
Birds:- Great, Blue and Long-tailed Tits, Goldcrest, Wren, Tree-creeper, Willow-warbler, Green Woodpecker and Woodcock occur in the woodland, and Nightjar and Tree Pipit breed on the heathland. Hobby and Hen Harrier have been recorded. 
Invertebrates:- The heathland supports 22 uncommon species of Spider, including Araneus displicatus, A.alsine, A.angulatus and Uloborus walckenaerus. Purple Hairstreak, White Admiral and the notable Silver Studded Blue butterflies have been recorded.

VEG:
An excellent example of sub-atlantic heath  surrounded by deciduous and coniferous woodland  with marshy grassland and Bracken. 
(1) D1. The majority of the site is dry heath  dominated by Calluna vulgaris, with Erica cinerea, E. tetralix, Ulex minor and Molinia caerulea. The site was particularly good for bryophytes, but vigorous growth of the ericaceous species has resulted in the loss of several species of lichens. 
(2) A111. Semi-natural broadleaved woodland occurs on the southern part. It is dominated by Birch and occasional older Oak, with some Sweet Chestnut in the south-east corner. Rhododendron is abundant beneath  and extends beyond the stream. Some Convallaria majalis occurs by the southern boundary. 
(3) D2. The areas of wet heath are particularly important. They are dominated by C. vulgaris and E. tetralix, with M. caerulea throughout. Wetter areas support Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum cespitosum, Juncus squarrosus, Carex  binervis, C. panicea and abundant Sphagna spp. Drosera rotundifolia, Eriophorum vaginatum and Rhynchospora alba occur: these are local in the county, and the nationally uncommon Drosera intermedia is present. Lycopodium inundatum has  been introduced.
(4)  A131. Mixed woodland of Pine, Oak, Birch and some Sweet Chestnut.
(5) A122. Pine plantation with occasional broadleaves.
(6)  C11. Pteridium aquilinum dominated clearing.
(7) B5. Tussocky Molinia caerulea, with Sphagna spp. and some ericaceous  species.
(8) G2. The stream is shaded by Rhododendron.

MANAGE:
The common is well managed. The priority is to maintain the heathland by removing invasive P. aquilinum, tree seedlings, and cutting back Rhododendron. Dr. F. Rose has suggested winter burns, and mowing strips of heath and scarifying the ground, to create open areas for lichens to re-colonise. A shallow pond is to be dug.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Marsh Tit, Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Linnet, Bullfinch, Greenfinch, Redpoll, Blackbird, Green Woodpecker and Great-spotted Woodpecker have been recorded. Mammals:- Fox, Rabbit. 
Invertebrates:- Speckled Wood (Pararge aereria), Green-veined White (Artogeia napi), Comma (Polygonia c- album), Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina) and Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus) butterflies occur.

VEG:
The common is a small area of secondary woodland. The northern end is predominately young Oak and Birch, with a few scattered Scot's Pine and older Birch. Rowan and Willow are occasional beneath. The ground flora consists of Rubus fruticosus and Dryopteris dilatata, with Vaccinium myrtillus, Molinia caerulea and Deschampsia flexuosa representing a remnant heathland flora. Rowan, Birch and Holly seedlings occur. The southern part is dominated by Oak, which occurs as mature standard, multi-stemmed and young trees. Downy Birch is frequent as both young and mature trees. The shrub layer consists of young Birch, locally abundant Holly and occasional Rowan, Hawthorn, Grey Willow, Laurel, Gorse and Blackthorn. The ground flora is dominated by R. fruticosus, with frequent D. dilitata and occasional Oxalis acetosella, Lonicera periclymenum, Digitalis purpurea, Hedera helix and grasses. Holcus lanatus is locally dominant.

MANAGE:
The National Trust's Management Plan aims to maintain and diversify the existing woodland by irregular coppicing and thinning, and to create open heathy glades at the northern end. It also aims to control alien species such as  Laurel, Reynoutria japonica and other garden escapes. Some scrub clearance and control of R. japonica has already been carried out.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Great Tit, Nuthatch, Green Woodpecker, Woodpigeon. 
Invertebrates:- Wood Ants, Speckled Wood butterfly. 
The heathland areas are likely to be of value to a variety of invertebrates and reptiles. More detailed survey work is needed.

VEG:
The common is predominately conifer plantation, but has areas of mixed woodland and heathland. 
(1) A122. Conifer plantation with some Birch and Sweet Chestnut. Rhododendron is scattered throughout and is abundant along the eastern boundary. The ground flora is predominately Pteridium aquilinum, with patches of heath, and ericaceous species occur on the boundary bank. 
(2) D1. The main area of heath is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Erica cinerea, with some Ulex minor. Molinia caerulea and Juncus squarrosus occur by the track. Young Birch and Pine trees are clumped over the heath, shading the plants out in places. Scattered heath occurs under trees on other parts of the site. 
(3) A111. The semi-natural broadleaved woodland is generally Birch with Oak. Holly and Hazel are abundant beneath, with some Rhododendron. The ground flora is mostly P. aquilinum and Rubus fruticosus, but some patches of heath occur in the clearings.
(4) A131. Mixed Pine, Birch and Sweet Chestnut, with Oak, Rowan, Alder Buckthorn and Holly.
(5)  J5. Tracks.

MANAGE:
Most of the site is conifer plantation, and is managed as a crop. The track to the north is surfaced. The common supports areas of heathland, and is part of a larger, but fragmented band of heathland which runs from Stedham Common, near Midhurst, to Hesworth Common,  near Fittleworth. The best management in nature conservation terms would therefore be to extend the heath on the site by clearing scattered Birch and Pine and controlling P. aquilinum and Rhododendron. Ideally the site should not be replanted when the timber crop is taken, but if it is to be replanted, it may be possible to incorporate heathland management, by leaving wide rides which can be regularly cut.


FAUNA:
Birds:- 51 species of bird breed including Hawfinch, Nightingale, and all three species of Woodpecker. It is the best site in Sussex for breeding Woodcock. 
Mammals include Common Shrew, Short-tailed Vole, Bank Vole, Mole, Rabbit, Grey Squirrel, Fox, Roe Deer. 
Reptiles include Slow Worm, Common Lizard, Adder, Grass Snake. 
Amphibians include Smooth, Great Crested and Palmate Newts, and Common Frog. 
Invertebrates:- 30 species of butterfly have been recorded including Purple Emperor, Wood White and Brown Hairstreak. Other groups are well represented and recorded.

VEG:
The common is predominately ancient woodland  with open grassland, scrub and open water. It has an exceptional lichen flora. 
(1) A111. The woodland is ancient in origin, with good structural diversity as a result of variation in soil types and past management. Over Weald clay on the north and east of the site, the woodland is predominately Oak and Beech high forest, with Holly abundant beneath. Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Elder form the shrub layer. Birch is locally dominant, and Ash, Field Maple and Hazel are common, especially on base-rich soils developed over limestone out-crops. There are open areas of ancient grassland. The central and western parts of the site are closed Beech high forest with some Oak. Holly forms a dense under- storey with occasional Yew. The ground flora is poor due to dense shade, but what there is reflects the underlying soil conditions, with Rubus fruticosus, Oxalis acetosella and Deschampsia caespitosa occurring on acid soils, and Sphagnum spp and Juncus spp occurring where drainage is impeded. Sanicula europaea, Primula veris and Mercurialis perennis are found in base-rich hollows. The canopy has been very much opened up by storm damage, and the Holly is being thinned as part of long-term site management.
The Weald clay on the northern and eastern parts of the site support a more open canopy high forest woodland of Oak and Beech. Birch is locally dominant, and Hazel, Field Maple and Ash are frequent on base-rich soils over out-cropping limestone. Holly is abundant in the shrub layer, with Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Elder. The ground flora is dominated by Rubus fruticosus, M.perennis, Glechoma hederacea and Pteridium aquilinum, but includes less common species, such as Platanthera chlorantha.
The woodland is of outstanding importance for lichens, with 105 species recorded. It is the best site on Weald clay, and includes several species which are closely associated with ancient woodland, such as Agonimia octospora, Catillaria atropurpurea and Stenocybe septata.
The outlying parts of the common are also wooded. The Hoe has some very large old Oak trees, with multi-stemmed Ash and young Beech, and the roads are generally lined by Oak and Beech standards and overgrown Hazel and Ash coppice.
(2) B21. Unimproved neutral grassland. There are areas of open grassland within the woodland which are also believed to be ancient in origin. They are dominated by Holcus lanatus and Agrostis tenuis, with Juncus spp on more acid soils, and species such as Mentha aquatica, Chrysosplenium alternifolium and Polygonum hydropiper on wet ground. Primula veris and Ophioglossum vulgatum also occur. The rides and pylon runs also support grassland, and all of these areas are important for invertebrates.
(3) J5. Tracks and buildings. Parts of the woodland are linked by tracks, which may well have been drove roads to the common. The site also includes the remains of a brickworks, including a moulding shed and kiln. These are listed as an Ancient Monument, and have been preserved by the Wildlife Trust.
(4) G1. Ponds. The two largest ponds within the woodland form a separate common land unit, but there are several small ponds.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust, and has  a detailed management plan. The main objectives are to maintain a high forest system, with a varied structure, to maintain the present diversity of habitats, to preserve the archaeological  remains, to permit public access for education and enjoyment, and to increase scientific knowledge of the site. More specifically, Holly is being thinned from the southern beechwoods, to encourage Oak and Beech regeneration, and young trees are being protected from browsing animals. A lot  of this clearing has been  made possible because of storm damage. Holly is being cleared from Narcissus pseudonarsissus areas, to encourage these  to spread. The grassland areas are mown and raked to prevent the spread  of P. aquilinum and scrub,  and the rides and pylon runs are regularly cut. The old brickworks are maintained. Regular monitoring of fauna is carried out.


FAUNA:
Birds:- Wren, Robin,  Kestrel, Woodpigeon,  Carrion Crow seen during the site visit. Mammals:- Rabbit, signs of deer.

VEG:
The common is predominately improved pasture and semi-natural mixed conifer and deciduous woodland. 
(1) B4. Improved  reseeded grassland. All of the areas mapped as fields have been reseeded, and many have been sub-divided by additional fencing. One field south of the road has some remnant chalk grassland flora. The fields north of the road are heavily grazed, and have patches of Urtica dioica. Oak, Beech, Yew and Birch are scattered. 
(2) A131. Mixed woodland occurs on flatter ground  and its composition varies with soil type. Beech and Yew dominate the thin, chalky soils of the steep slopes. The ground flora is poor  due to deep leaf litter and dense shade. Oak and Ash occur in association with Yew on deeper valley loams, especially to the south of the site. Tall  old Hawthorn occur beneath, and large  multi-stemmed Hazel form a patchy shrub layer. The canopy is more open, and the ground flora is characteristically more diverse, with Euphorbia  amygdaloides,  Potentilla sterilis, Viola riviniana, Teucrium  scorodonia and Dryopteris filix-mas.
Some of the woodland has been so severely storm-damaged that very few  standard trees remain, and patches of  Blackthorn  and Rubus fruticosus scrub have developed  in the clearings, over the remnant ground  flora.
Pine and Hazel have been planted into the woodland  in the past.
(3) A121. The semi-natural conifer woodland is completely dominated by Yew, and occurs on the steep sides of a valley. Birch, Hazel and Pine occur on the margins, but the Yew has shaded out all other  trees, shrubs and ground flora species from  the main  part of the woodland.
(4) A111. The semi-natural broadleaved woodland is dominated by Beech, and its boundaries are difficult to define, as they tend to merge with the other woodland types. It generally occurs on steep slopes. There are also two separate wooded areas. The area to the south-west of Corner Cottage consists of severely storm-damaged Beech, Oak and multi-stemmed Ash, with Hazel under. Clearings have scrub of Hawthorn, Blackthorn and  Elder.  The ground flora is predominately R. fruiticosus, Urtica dioica, P. aquilinum and coarse grasses. Some Ash and Beech have been planted in tubes.
The small area of woodland south of the road is Oak and Ash woodland over Hazel.
(5) A21. Much of the area on the edge of Little Round Down is scrubby woodland, but there are also areas of very dense Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hazel, Alder Buckthorn, young Sycamore, Wild Privet, young Ash and spindle scrub, with some  mature Oak, Ash and Whitebeam. The ground flora is patchy due to dense shade and leaf litter, but includes Urtica dioica, Teucrium scorodonia, Brachypodium sylvaticum and D. filix-mas.
(6) The drive to Corner Cottage is surfaced, with grassy verges and  mature Beech lining it.

MANAGE:
All of the fields have been improved. Several of those south of the road have been sown with a very robust cultivar, and are cut, presumably for hay. The other fields are heavily grazed by cattle, sheep or horses, with sheep being dominant. The fields on the  eastern  edge of the  common have been  subdivided by additional fencing, and several are used for storing hay. The cattle receive supplementary feed. Much of the woodland has been severely storm-damaged and storm-damaaged timber  has been removed, although the root plates and dead standing trees remain. The small area by Corner Cottage has been replanted with trees in tubes,  but there is no other evidence  of  replanting.  The woodland is all within an SSSI, and its management is  subject to the approval of the NCC. Hopefully this  will prevent further encroachments  and agricultural improvement of the common.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Wheatear, Snipe, Skylark, Meadow pipits.

VEG:
Most of the mapping of this site was taken from the NVC 1987 survey ny NCC due to lack of time.The second paragraph deals with the NE corner which was field surveyed.

Black Tor Copse is an ancient woodland of predominantly {\it Quercus robur}  with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} much in evidence in the ground flora amongst extensive granite boulders. The site is well-known for bryophytes such as {\it Antitrichia curtipendula, Douinia ovata, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Thuidium tamariscinum, Plagiothecium undulatum}. The lichen communites for which this woodland is famous include well-developed {\it Parmelietum laevigatae} and {\it Usneion} communites, specifically {\it Mycoblastis affinis, Usnea filipendula, Sphaerophorus melanocarpus, Arthonia stellaris, Micaria botyroides, Micaria cinerea, Micaria violacea, Gyaliseopsis muscicola}. {\it Alectoria smithii} is known from only two other sites in Britain. Rock species {\it Massalongia carnosa, Ochrolechia tartarea, Pilophorus strumaticus, Parmelia discordans}.

{\it Pteridium aquilinum} is extensive above and  around the wood which gives way to a mosaic of wet and dry heathland,(M15, M25, M6a in NVC terms) and acid flushes. The upper heath areas of the tors are of H12a (NVC) vegetation. Acid grassland is found towards the edges of the common on lower slopes as are {\it Molinia}-dominated marshy grasslands.

The northeastern corner has a heath/grassland mosaic with species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Erica tetralix, Carex binervis, Agrostis curtisii, Potentilla erecta, Ulex} sp. Molinia caerulea, Carex panicea, Cladonia} sp. and much {\it Agrostis stolonifera}. The eastern side of this hill is boulder-strewn and invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Above Moorgate farm is a more heavy grazed area of acid grassland with {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Agrostis stolonifera, Rumex acetosella, Rhytidiadelphus} sp. An acid flush above Moorgate farm contains {\it Carex panicea, Ranunculus flammula, Juncus bufonius, Anagallis tenella, Prunella vulgaris}, and some thallose liverworts.

Black-a-ven Brook has extenive valley mire around it, part of which is on the common (NW of Okement Farm). This supports {\it Sphagnum} spp. {\it Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum, Drosera rotundifolia, Trichophorum cespitosum, Juncus squarrosus, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Erica tetralix, Polygala serpyllifolia, Juncus effusus, Polytrichum commune, Potentilla erecta, Epilobium hirsutum, Molinia caerulea, Eriophorum vaginatum, Viola palustris}. Moor Brook at the northernmost point of the site also has valley mire vegetation.

The Meldon Aplite Quarry is designated as a SSSI on geological grounds, in particular for its very rare granitic minerals.

MANAGE:
Dartmoor National Park has attempted erosion damage restoration on this common with some success. There is some debate over whether the minor road loop that passes through the northern section of CL 164 leads, due to enhanced access, to further erosion by the public on CL164 and Cl155 and whether this access should be limited.

Paraphrasing English Nature's Notes to the Heather Condition maps of Dartmoor:
The heather over most of this common is severely damaged by grazing which must be exacerbated by military exercises. The higher areas are least damaged though heather is still in decline. Stocking levels should be reduced, and the practice of winter feeding 'substantially reduced'. Burning the heather on blanket and valley bog areas is not recommended while grazing pressure is high.


FAUNA:
Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, Swallow, Buzzard, Stonechat, Wren, Robin, Raven, Lark, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Magpie, Snipe, Kestrel, Red Admiral, Small Heath, various Orthoptera including Great Green Bush Cricket, Thomisid Spiders, Damselflies.

VEG:
This large, upland common in the SE of Dartmoor is adjacent to CL 162, CL 156, CL 187 and CL 164.  {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and acid grassland cover most of the drier, lower, southern slopes, whilst dry heath covers the drier hilltops in the southern half of the common.  Further into the moor the higher ground supports blanket bog, marshy grassland, wet heath and acid flushes.  Several streams, (tributaries of the River Avon), occupy small valleys in the western half of the common.

NVC communites occurring probably include: U3, U4a, U4b, U20, U1, H4, H12, M6a, M6c, M15, M23, M25a, M25b, M29, M25/M15 intermediates, M25/H12 intermediates, plus some U3/H4.

B11 - Acid grassland mainly occurs in the SE half of the common, where it tends to be closely grazed by sheep and cattle.

In the Black Tor/Brent Moor area, U3, U4a and U5 occur and very abundant species include {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. curtisii, Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta.  Molinia caerulea} is locally frequent at low cover in damper areas and wetter slopes.  In the U4 areas, which occur mostly on the lower parts of slopes, associated with {\it P. aquilinum} or on streambanks and hummocks in valleys, the main grass is {\it Agrostis capillaris}.

In the U3 stands, {\it Agrostis curtisii} is dominant or abundant.  These areas tend to be on slightly higher ground, and grade into the dry heath or form mosaics with it (D5 -see below).  {\it Nardus stricta} is abundant in some of the B11 and U3/U5 intermediate grassland occurs, eg. Brent Fore Hill has co-dominant {\it N. stricta, A. curtisii} and {\it A. capillaris}.  U4e and U5 both probably occur.  Small areas of U1 occur on very dry slopes and hummocks with bare soil, {\it Rumex acetosella, Festuca ovina, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Plantago major}.

D5 and B11/D11 - Mosaics of acid grassland and heath (D5) form part of transition zones between the B11 on the lower slopes and the D11 higher up.  Some areas may reflect past burning or overgrazing.  Areas mapped as B11/D11 are intermediate to both habitats with an even coverage of 20-25% dwarf shrubs in a grassy 'matrix' ('grass-heath vegetation) - not a mosaic.  These areas may also represent ecological transition or grazing pressures.  Species occurring include {\it Erica cinerea, Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, at relatively low cover.

In the Shipley Bridge/Zeal end of the CL, the D5 in this vicinity is U5 and/or U4a, with locally dense {\it Ulex gallii} to 1 metre tall in sizeable patches, some resembling Gorse scrub rather than dwarf shrub heath, with little other than {\it Carex binervis} growing through it.

Intermediates and mosaics of U3 and H4 are common on Hickley Ridge and Dockwell Ridge, where the most prominent spp. are {\it Ulex gallii} hummocks and U3 constant grass species.  U5 with {\it U. gallii}, is fairly common around the old tramway in the centre of the common.  {\it Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Nardus stricta} feature more strongly in the B11/D11, the further north along the tramway one goes from Shipley Bridge, and going northwards and uphill, {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} feature more prominently in the grass/heath vegetation mixes.

Northwards and with increased altitude the B11 and D11 and B11/D11 complexes grade into the wetter vegetation types such as blanket bog, wet heath etc. In these transitional areas (e.g. some areas between Brent Moor ridge and Eastern White Barrow) species more typical of mires enter the sward. {\it Molinia caerulea} (non-tussocky form), {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} may be locally frequent/abundant in a short turf otherwise intermediate to B11 and D11. (These areas are often not mapped owing to the small mapping scale which makes it confusing to show them).

D11   Dry dwarf shrub heath covers large areas of the SE half of the common.Two main types are present, referrable to H4 and H12 in NVC terms.
Well-characterized H4 occurs in the environs of Peathy's path on Dockwell Ridge, with abundant to dominant {\it Ulex gallii}, frequent {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} in good condition, plus other H4 constant spp. In other parts of Dockwell Ridge, parts of Brent Moor and Hickley Ridge H4 is less well characterized, with {\it Ulex gallii} hummocks to 0.5m high providing most of the dwarf shrub cover, very little ericoid cover, and a greater prominence of grasses. {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Nardus stricta, Carex binervis, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} are locally frequent.
In many stands {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is quite prominent , and with increased altitude and further into the Dartmoor interior, the H4 is replaced by H12 {\it Calluna-Vaccinium} heath. Species occurring in the H12 stands include: abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa}, frequent {\it Molinia} (non-tussocky), {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Juncus squarrosus, Festuca ovina, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Carex binervis, Hypnum jutlandicum, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.
Intermediate vegetation with characteristics of H4 and H12 also occurs (e.g. on Hickley Plain, Brent Fore Hill and Glaze Head area) with abundant {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Agrostis curtisii} and occasional to frequent {\it Ulex gallii}.

D2   Wet dwarf shrub heath referrable to NVC community M15 is frequent in the NW half of the common. (On deeper peat this same community would be E17 in Phase 1 terms - see below). Abundant species in the D2 include {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris}, sparse {\it Erica tetralix} and bryophytes. Other commonly occurring species include {\it Juncus squarrosus, Potentilla erecta, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Polygala serpyllifolia}. The principal bryophytes include: {\it Dicranum scoparium, Campylopus introflexus, Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum subnitens, Hypnum jutlandicum, Polytrichum alpestre, Odontoschisma sphagni, Calypogeia} sp. The D2 occurs in mosaics with {\it Molinia}-dominated M25b and grades into it.

B5  Slightly tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} dominates large tracts of the common. On shallow peat this is B5, whereas on deeper peat the same community would come under E17 in Phase 1 terms. It is mostly M25b in NVC terms. Other species present include {\it Festuca ovina, Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Potentilla erecta} - all at low cover/abundance. Locally frequent {\it Erica tetralix} marks M25a.

E17   Modified blanket bog consists mostly of M25b, but M15 is also common, plus intermediates. Where these communities occur on summit plateaux with deep peat the vegetation is referrable to E17, where they occur on steeper slopes and valley sides they are referrable to B5 and D2.
In the E17 small bog pools with {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum} and {\it Juncus effusus} are occasional, but classic blanket mire with M1 and M2 bog pools and hummock-hollow structure is not present. Mostly it is species-poor {\it Molinia} vegetation. {\it Sphagna} are generally sparse.

E21 and E31    Valley mires (E31) occur along Red Brook, Bala Brook and parts of Middle Brook. Smaller acid flushes contain similar vegetation (mostly NVC M6a community). The valley mires contain NVC communities M6a, M6c, M23,M25, M29. There is a tiny area of M4 bog pool near Petre's Pit in the NW of the common.

Species present include: {\it Sphagnum recurvum, S. palustre, S. papillosum, Polytrichum commune}, sparse non-tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus, Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum cespitosum, Potentilla erecta, Carex demissa, Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum, Juncus bulbosus, Erica tetralix, Viola palustris, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Eleocharis palustris}. In the M29 {\it Hypericum elodes} and {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius} are frequent.

C11 and C12    {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occurs over U4a type species, or over H12 typa flora, where the canopy is thinner ( e.g. the western slopes of Dockwell Ridge). Scattered scrub (A22) often ocurs with continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Species include {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

A31 - Trees in the R. Avon valley near Black Tor include {\it Betula} sp. {\it Salix caprea, Sorbus aucuparia, Crataegus monogyna}.

G2 - The numerous rivers and streams are oligotrophic and bouldery for the most part, except where they run through flushes in their upper reaches.

J5 - A small metalled road follows the R. Avon and is bordered by B11, C11, D11 and E21 flushes.  A dismantled tramway, now a footpath, crosses Shipley Bridge to Crossways.

MANAGE:
Burning is allowed on most of the moorland except for around Petre's Cross, Knatta Barrow and Three Barrows Hill.  No burnt areas were seen at the time of survey.  Most of the heather in the main E17 areas is healthy, although often present at low cover amongst the dominating {\it Molinia caerulea}.  Severe overgrazing has affected much of the heather in the D11, D5 and B11/D11 in the southeast half of the common, particularly on Brent Moor itself, parts of the east slopes of Old Hill and to the SW of Three Barrows and Hickley Plain.  The rest of the common is unsuitable for heather or shows slight overgrazing.

Around Black Tor, Hickley Ridge, parts of Dockwell Ridge and Three Barrows, ericoids and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} occur in the B11 (at low cover/abundance), D5 and D11 in a close-grazed grass-heath in the 'carpet form'.  {\it Ulex gallii} or {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} are often the most prominent dwarf shrubs in this close grazed vegetation.

Although 'heather' sometimes is frequent even in the B11 (U3) stands, it is very sparse and low.  {\it Ulex gallii} is often the dominant sub-shrub in H4 in the south, with few ericoids (? overgrazing).

Bracken is being cut and controlled on Hickley Ridge.  It is encroaching some of the areas of Bilberry heath and Western Gorse heath on Dockwell Ridge.  Some of the flushes are poached by stock.  The grazing pressure seems most intense on the drier B11 and D11 areas, whereas the {\it Molinia caerulea} vegetation (apart from some M15) is generally only moderately grazed.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Raven, Buzzard, Kestrel, Carrion Crow, Curlew, Meadow pipit, Tree pipit, Stonechat, Linnet, Swallow, Wren, Small White Butterfly.
Fox moth caterpillar.

VEG:
The common lies on the SE edge of Dartmoor, and forms part of an extensive block of upland common land. The slightly lower hills in the south of the site mainly support dry western gorse heath, with a mixture of acid grassland and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} covering the lower slopes. The northern half is slightly higher in altitude and wetter and supports more {\it Molinia} vegetation, {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} moor, and borders the heart of the moor (where blanket mire is present just N of the common). The River Avon valley and reservoir form the western boundary of the common and there are acid flushes and small valley mires associated with the river and its tributaries.

D11	  
Dry dwarf shrub heath covers an extensive area on the highest ground between Pupers Hill and Dockwell Ridge. To the SE of Hickaton Hill most of the D11 is referrable to NVC community H4, and to the N of Hickaton Hill the D11 is mostly of NVC community H12. Species present at high frequency in the D11 (H4) areas include {\it Ulex  gallii, Agrostis curtisii, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, A. capillaris, Molinia caerulea}. Other species such as {\it Carex binervis, Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta} occur locally. In the area of Gripper's Hill (particularly its E and SE flanks) the H4 is dominated by the {\it U.gallii}, which mostly grows in low hummocks, but in the area of Radacleave Brakes is around 1m tall and forms a dense 'scrub-like' heath. {\it Erica cinerea} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} are sparse and infrequent in these parts of the common, and much of the H4 is poorly-characterized and impoverished. On the very highest ground in the Gripper's Hill area {\it V. myrtillus} enters the H4 sward, and some patches are closer to {\it V. myrtillus} heath than to {\it U. gallii} heath. Towards the boundary with CL 161, in the S and SW of the common the H4 is better characterized, with more abundant ericoids amongst the {\it U. gallii} and less grass cover. Areas mapped as 'B11/D11' consist of very 'grassy' vegetation in which {\it U. gallii} is frequent at 20-25% cover in a 'matrix' of NVC U3 grassland species (see below) - this is not a mosaic but an intermediate so is no mapped as 'D5'. It hovers between impoverished H4 and gorsey U3. Species characteristic of the D11 (H12) areas in the vicinity of Puper's Hill include: abundant {\it C. vulgaris} and {\it V. myrtillus} hummocks, with frequent {\it Molinia caerulea, D. flexuosa, Pleurozium schreberi, Hypnum jutlandicum, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium saxatile, Agrostis capillaris, Festuca ovina} and {\it Carex binervis}. In some areas the dwarf shrubs predominate, whereas in others the sward resembles a 'grass-heath' with the graminoids co-dominant with the ericoids, for example near the reservoir the sward appears to be U4e/H12 with {\it A. capillaris, N. stricta, V. myrtillus, D. flexuosa} and U4 spp.

B11	  
Acid grassland is extensive, particularly on the W and E slopes below the D11. Abundant species include: {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. curtisii,
Nardus stricta, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina}. More localized species include {\it M. caerulea, D. flexuosa, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, C. binervis} and sparsely-present {\it C. vulgaris, V. myrtillus} and {\it U. gallii} in 'carpet' form. The principal communities present in NVC terms include U4a, U3, and U5. U3 appears to cover the greatest area. U3/U5 intermediate vegetation with co-dominant {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it A. curtisii} is quite common. U4a seems to be generally lower downhill near margins of the site, or beneath {\it P. aquilinum} or on hummocks in stream valleys and on streambanks.

B12	  
Semi-improved acid grassland occupies small marginal areas around gateways, trampled areas along drystone walls etc. It is closely sheep-grazed, with {\it A. capillaris} dominant. Other species include {\it Rumex acetosella, Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis}.

C11 and C12   
The lower slopes generally support continuous or scattered {\it P. aquilinum} over acid grassland or B11/D11 with {\it V. myrtillus}. {\it P. aquilinum} is also a feature of valley bottoms in a mosaic with E31/E21, B11 and B5.

B5	
{\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated marshy grassland mostly referrable to NVC community M25b covers a sizeable area in the N of the site, particularly on the shallower slopes above Brockhill Mire, and to a lesser extent in the valley floors near rivers and streams where it forms part of the valley mire complexes. The M25b is dominated by short {\it Molinia caerulea} tussocks. Associated species (generally at lower cover-abundances) include {\it A. capillaris, Festuca ovina, D. flexuosa, Calluna vulgaris} and occasional {\it Erica tetralix}. Alongside Wellabrook {\it J. effusus} is locally dominant and there are patches of NVC M23b rush-pasture (B5 in Phase 1).

D2   
Wet heath covers a large area of the plateau on Hickaton Hill on shallow peaty soils. It is characterized by a short-cropped sward of {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Molinia caerulea, C. vulgaris, Erica tetralix, J. squarrosus, F. ovina}, with sparse bryophytes (mainly Hypnum jutlandicum/cupressiforme). {\it V. myrtillus} is occasional. The ericoids are frequently in the 'carpet' form. The vegetation falls into the NVC community M15.

D2/B5  -is intermediate to M15 and M25b, with short tussocky {\it M. caerulea}, abundant 'carpet' {\it C. vulgaris}, and the other M15 species occasional to frequent.

E31 and E21   
Valley mire complexes along Wellabrook and other streams generally include areas of acid flush, marshy grassland, acid grassland, 'heathy' patches and {\it P. aquilinum}. The principal NVC communities being M6a, M6c, M23b, M25b, M29,U4a and U20. Along the Wellabrook valley (W of Puper's Hill) there is M23b dominated by {\it J. effusus, M. caerulea, Galium palustre, Rumex acetosa} which is rather species-poor. M6c resembles it and is quite extensive. {\it Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} are frequent in this community. Small patches of M6a have {\it Sphagnum recurvum, Molinia caerulea, Carex panicea, Polytrichum commune} and some small pools with {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius} and {\it Ranunculus omiophyllus} amongst the frequent spp. approach M29 soakaway. Much is poached by stock and some is rather degraded/impoverished in species.
M6a is the main flush community at the head of the stream near Reddacleave Brakes. Here frequent species include {\it Sphagnum auriculatum, Sphagnum papillosum}, sparse {\it Molinia caerulea, J. effusus, J. bulbosus, Viola palustris, Carex demissa, Agrostis canina, Polytrichum commune}. The Brockhill mire are at the NW extremity is somewhat poached and eutrophicated, with impeverished examples of M6a, M6c, and M23b with algae and {\it Montia fontana}. Lower down the E21/E31 widens into larger well-characterized stands of M29 and M6. {\it Hypericum elodes, Potamogeton polygonifolius} are abundant in the M29 soakaways. Other species include {\it Sphagnum auriculatum, Sphagnum recurvum, Juncus bulbosus, Ranunculus flammula, Ranunculus omiophyllus, Hydrocotyle vulgaris}.

G2   
Oligotrophic streams and rivers with bouldery/gravelly beds generally have good bryophyte cover on submerged boulders. Their banksides support species of M25, M23 and M6 usually, including {\it Viola palustris, Wahlenbergia hederacea, Carex demissa, Carex panicea, Sphagnum auriculatum, Pedicularis sylvatica, Calluna vulgaris, Blechnum spicant}, and {\it Scoparia} sp.

MANAGE:
Dean Moor is quite heavily stocked with cattle and sheep, plus a few ponies. Overgrazing is quite severe on parts of Gripper's Hill in the south of the site (mostly its SE to SW slopes, particularly the area mapped as B11/D11 and surrounding area).

Slight overgrazing has occurred over much of the rest of the commons heathland, and there is poaching of flushes, mires and stream banks in many places. 'Carpet'{\it Calluna vulgaris} occurs in the D2/B5 on Hickaton Hill where the D2 is closely-grazed down to the shallow peat. Some healthy heather is present, e.g. along the ridge between Puper's Hill SE to Water Oak Corner, and the west slopes of Dean Moor, and on parts pf Puper's Hill. Near paths there is some 'drumstick' heather. Near the ford NW of Brockhill Mire some {\it Calluna vulgaris} is quite tall (to 0.5 m) and rather old and 'leggy', but most of the dwarf shrubs on the common are grazed to rather low hummocks. South of Hickaton Hill some of the D11 where {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} dominates is grazed to 'topiary' form of hummocks.

Much of the heather in the D5 or B11/D11 areas are grazed short to a 'carpet'. Some of the H4 is deficient in ericoids, and dominated by {\it Ulex gallii} and grasses - possibly an effect of past heavy grazing.

Burning is permitted over much of the D11, but is not permitted on part of Puper's Hill SW slopes. At the time of survey there was a small burn in the extreme south of the common.


FAUNA:
Chagford Common (main area): Wheatear, Buzzard, Raven, Snipe, Skylark (Possible Red grouse and Ring ousel).

Chagford Common (Kestor area): None seen owing to bad weather conditions on day of survey. Snipe and crow at Frenchbeer.

Meldon Common: Insects in scrub, Small white butterfly, Stonechat, Whinchat, Meadow pipit, Chaffinch.

Nattadon Common: Orange tip, Small white, Swallows, Meadow pipit, Chaffinch, Crow, Rook Magpie.

Weeke Common: Small white, Variety of insects, Stonechat, Whinchat, Wheatear, Blackbird, Crow, Buzzard.

Jurston and Higher Teniel: None seen, probably typical at farmland fringes e.g. blackbirds, rooks etc.

VEG:
The common consists of two large areas of land (partly in the E. Dartmoor SSSI), plus several smaller outlying areas of common land on the NE Dartmoor fringes. Most of the common supports upland vegetation, {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and acid grassland. The areas differ so they are described seperately.

CHAGFORD COMMON - Area within E. Dartmoor SSSI (see map 1)
The land rises to nearly 490m on Water Hill and most lies above 300m. Base-deficient soils over granite support mainly acidophilous dwarf shrub heaths, with lesser areas of grassland, {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and valley mire. Along with the other commons within the SSSI, the common supports some of the best example of remaining heathland in Dartmoor.
D11 - The principal NVC communities are H4 and H12. Chagford Common to Merripit Hill supports large areas of H4. Species present include {\it Ulex gallii, Agrostis curtisii, Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} - all at high cover abundance. There are lesser amounts of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Erica tetralix} in some areas.
H12 covers lesser areas near the B3212 and on Hurston Ridge. It is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with frequent {\it V. myrtillus}, and in general lies uphill to the H stands.
B11 - Around the periphery of Chagford Common the H4 is replaced by NVC U3 (largely as a result of past excessive grazing/burning). It is dominated by {\it Agrostis curtisii} with dwarf shrubs such as {\it Calluna} only found as sparsely-growing plants in a grass-dominated sward. These areas could revert to H4 given a light grazing regime. Intermediate D11/B11 consists of 'hybrid' H4/U3. There are few other grassland communities, although U4a does occur. D5 mostly consists of U3 and H4, although some is U3 and H12.
Other spp. occurring in the B11 are {\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Nardus stricta} and {\it Molinia caerulea}.
C11 - {\it Pteridium aquilinum} appears to encroach the heathland somewhat near Bush Down and N. Walla Brook. It occupies steep, lower slopes especially in the Green Combe and Bush Down areas. NVC is mostly U20b with the following spp. present: {\it P. aquilinum, Galium saxatile, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Rumex acetosa, Carex binervis} and a variety of grass spp. It is poor in herbs.
D2 - Small stands of M15b with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Calluna vulgaris, E. tetralix} and {\it Molinia caerulea} occur on Water Hill, and associated with the N. Walla Brook valley mire. Other species occurring include: {\it Carex panicea, Carex echinata, Carex viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa, Eriophorum angustifolium, Narthecium ossifragum, Potentilla erecta, Eleocharis multicaulis, Succisa pratensis, Anagallis tenella, Polygala serpyllifolia, Pedicularis sylvatica, Sphagnum papillosum} and {\it Aulocomnium palustre}.
E31 - Wetherall Brook and N. Walla Brook valley mires contain extensive stands of NVC M21, which are characterized by abundant {\it Sphagnum papillosum, Narthecium ossifragum}, with {\it Drosera rotundifolia, E. tetralix, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}. This is an important S.W. community.
M29 soakaways run through the valley mires, and are marked by abundant {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius} and {\it Hypericum elodes}, plus many other spp. common to the M6 and M21 stands. NVC M4 mire, M6a and M6c and d are the other main NVC mire communities occurring.
Species found in the M4 and M6 stands include {\it Carex rostrata, Carex echinata, Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, Sphagnum recurvum, S. auriculatum, Viola palustris, Cirsium palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Drosera rotundifolia, Epilobium palustre, Carex viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa}, Ranunculus acris, Leontodon autumnalis, Lythrum portula, Wahlenbergia hederacea}. Other spp. found in the valley bottoms include {\it Sphagnum capillifolium, S. palustre, S. squarrosum, Polytrichum commune} and {\it Pedicularis palustris}.

CHAGFORD COMMON - KESTOR AREA (Not within the SSSI) - see map 2.
This site mostly supports an extensive area of homogenous grass-heath vegetation (B11/D11) intermdiate to NVC U3 and H4. {\it Ulex gallii} is the principal dwarf shrub and forms low hummocks in a grassy 'matrix'. {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea} are generally frequent, but at a low cover and relatively inconspicuous. {\it Molinia caerulea, Agrostis curtisii, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta} are abundant. Other species include {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Festuca ovina, Polygala serpyllifolia, Erica tetralix}. The ground is very boulder-strewn in places.
B11 areas include NVC U4a and U4b around the tors. Where {\it Nardus stricta} is locally frequent there is some U4e e.g. near Frenchbeer Rock. Mostly the turf is relatively species-poor.
Most of the B11 is short, closely-grazed turf, and includes the following species: {\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Carex binervis} a low cover of {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Danthonia decumbens, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Hypnum cupressiforme} and in U3 areas {\it Agrostis curtisii, Rumex acetosella, Polytrichum juniperinum} occur on hummocks and boulders. Around the tors where there is very hard grazing and dunging, species such as {\it Holcus lanatus, Trifolium repens, Juncus effusus, Montia fontana, Digitalis purpurea} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} are locally frequent.
E31 and E21 valley mires with flushes are associated with 2 small oligotrophic streams E. and W. of Thornworthy Tor in the S. of the site. Sizeable stands of M6 and M29 soakaway vegetation occur, especially at the stream heads. Species include {\it Sphagna, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Hypericum elodes, J. effusus, J. bulbosus, Molinia caerulea, Carex viridula} ssp.{\it oedocarpa, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Anagallis tenella, Ranunuculus flammula, Viola palustris, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Polytrichum commune}.
A22/A21 scrub species mostly comprise {\it Ulex europaeus} along roadsides and site boundaries, but there are also occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} or {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The {\it Ulex europaeus} is 'topiaried' in places by stock browsing.

MELDON COMMON (I.P. survey) - see map 3.
This is a steep hill of mainly gorse, scrub and {\it P. aquilinum}, rising to a rocky plateau. It is bordered by farmland and reaches the town of Chagford at the northern sire boundary from which it extends southwards towards the village of Corndon. It lies approxiamately 2km. NE of the 2 main areas of Chagford Common and is seperated from them by farmland.
The common is mainly covered in continuous {\it P. aquilinum} (C11). This gives way to gorse scrub towards the hilltop, and to marshy grassland on low-lying ground near Chagford (called Padley Common). All habitats are affected by scrub encroachment of {\it Ulex gallii}, and seedlings of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Quercus} sp. The {\it P. aquilinum} is species-poor with 70 per cent litter cover (NVC U20c) but in less exposed areas there is an understorey of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}.
On the hill plateau areas of {\it U. gallii} scrub have become old and 'leggy' due to lack of grazing or burning. {\it V. myrtillus} bushes are locally frequent. It is possible this is overgrown former H4 heath (D11). (It is therefore mapped as D11/A21, although it is more like {\it U. gallii} scrub than a dwarf shrub heath). Exposed boulders support 'saxifrage' ({\it ?Saxifraga anglicum, Dicranum scoparium, Pleurozium schreberi} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. Between the rocky areas and scrub areas are exposed patches of acid grassland (B11) of NVC U4a higher up and U5 lower, which is usually showing signs of {\it P. aquilinum} encroachment.
At the base of the slope, nearest Chagford,is a small area of low-lying level ground where the {\it P. aquilinum} gives way to a rich marshy grassland (B5) cut through by streams and flushes. The vegetation includes {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, J. effusus} and {\it Angelica sylvestris} (dominant), {\it Pedicularis palustris, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Cardamine pratensis, Cirsium palustre, Mentha aquatica, Epilobium palustre, Rumex acetosa, Caltha palustris, Chamerion angustifolium} and various acid grassland species. Some is probably referrable to M23b.
Flushes contain {\it Sphagnum palustre, S. recurvum, S. auriculatum, Carex panicea, Carex nigra, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Menyanthes trifoliata} and {\it Aulacomnium palustre}. (E21). Steambanks support {\it Rubus fruticosus, Montia sibirica} and {\it Dactylorhiza praeterimissa}.
The path crossing the bottom of Padley Common passes through broadleaved woodland (A111) to the E. bordering the site. {\it Salix} spp., Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Coryllus avellana} and {\it Urtica dioica} are present.

NATTADON COMMON (I.P. survey notes) - see map 3.
This lies immediatley NE to Meldon Common, and is a steep-sided hill, the site of an old fort, mainly covered by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub.
{\it P. aquilinum} dominates, with 70 per cent litter. Where litter is absent the ground flora includes {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and remnant acid grassland spp. (C11,U20).
In the area of a disused quarry near the northern boundary {\it Rubus fruticosus} dominates, giving way to {\it Salix} sp. and {\it U. gallii} scrub with {\it Q. robur} and {\it Betula pendula} over the quarry itself (A21 with A31). Other similar areas of broadleaved scrub occur to the south and just below the hilltop plateau.
The hilltop of nattadon Down supports acid grassland (B11) - a small stand of NVC U4a invaded by {\it Ulex gallii}.
The western slopes have been patchily burnt, and the regeneration includes {\it P. aquilinum} mainly, but with {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Fragaria vesca, Rubus fruticosus}.
The more open areas, especially alongside paths, also support {\it Veronica chamaedrys, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla erecta, Trifolium repens, Silene dioica, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Ranunculus repens} and {\it R. acris}.

WEEK DOWN (I.P.'s survey) - see map 3.
A small area of common land just to the E. of Nattadon dominated by continuous {\it P. aquilinum}. The litter seems to cover 90 per cent of the site. However, dotted within this habitat are acid grassland spp. with {\it Potentilla erecta, Ranunculus repens, Plantago lanceolata, Geranium robertianum, Silene dioica, Lamium purpureum}. Wide paths and feeding near the cattle grid and gate have resulted in U4b with acid grassland spp. {\it Bellis perennis} etc.
Surrounding the common are old hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Quercus} sp.,{\it Ilex aquifolium, Salix caprea, S. aucuparia, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana}. Tree seedlings are invading the common (e.g. Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and scrub development is very evident, including {\it Ulex gallii}.

HIGHER STENIEL - See map 4
This small area of common land occupies a west-facing moderate slope. A lane passes through its northern part, and the young River Bovey forms the southern border. It is surrounded by agricultural land and appears little used, apart from a small path. Continuous {\it P. aquilinum} and scattered scrub (mainly {\it U. europaeus}) covers the whole site. There is some {\it U. gallii} amongst the scrub.

JURSTON - Map 4.
This tiny outlying area of CL 173 lies at Jurston among agricultural land. It consists of mostly B5 (mainly M23b dominated by {\it J. effusus}) with {\it P. aquilinum, Rubus} sp. and {\it U. europaeus} scrub. i.e. a mosaic of B5 and C11 and A22. To the N. of the track running through the site, is a small area of improved grassland (B4). Tall hedgerows (J2) include {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

MANAGE:
1	MAIN AREAS OF CHAGFORD COMMON - Maps 1 and 2.
Both of the 2 largest areas i.e. within the SSSI, and the Kestor area include heathland where burning is allowed. Much of the heathland shows 
signs of moderate or severe over-grazing, by sheep, ponies and cattle, in both these areas. Even the {\it Ulex europaeus} is 'topiared' by browsers in the Kestor-Frenchbeer area, where most of the H4 type heath is intermediate to U3 grassland (possibly due to grazing pressures).
In areas of Chagford Common within the SSSI excessive grazing and burning has resulted in replacement of H4 heath by U3 grassland, especially on the slopes surrounding Metherall Brook. (U3 is known to revert to H4 under lower grazing pressure). Large patch burning occurs.

2	MELDON COMMON
Very lightly cattle-grazed. Scrub and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} encroachment. Under-grazed and scrubbing-over and thus in need of increased grazing or burning of the leggy {\it Ulex}. Removal of seedlings might be needed
if {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and acid were to be maintained. Removal of litter could improve species-richness of U20 understorey.

3	NATTADON COMMON
Management by burning occurs. Apparently little or no grazing. Almost totally under {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub.

4	WEEK DOWN
Cattle-grazed. Low grazing intensity. Encroachment by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} almost total. Needs litter removal and possibly increased grazing if {\it P. aquilinum} is not desirable. Some scrub encroachment.

5	HIGHER STENIEL	
Apparently unmanaged.
	
6	JURSTON
Apparently unmanaged.
	
Cattle grids have been installed to protect Chagford village from invasion of stock from Meldon Hill, Nattadon and Week Down by the NPA, The Highway Authority, Chagford Commoners and Chagford Parish Council.
(DNPA Annual Report 1994/5).


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: 
Birds: Buzzard, Meadow Pipit, Wren, Raven, Snipe, Carrion Crow, Peregrine.
Butterflies: Red Admiral, Tortoiseshell, Small Heath.
Also Craneflies, Bees on heather, Grasshopper spp.

MANAGE:
Sheep, cattle and pony grazing occurs. The drystone walling along the eastern boundary was being repaired by a local farmer at the time of survey.

Encroachment by {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Ulex} sp. may be a problem in parts of the H4 heath. Burning is permitted on the site.

In much of the B11,B11/D11 and D5 there are signs of heavy grazing pressure and the dwarf shrubs are often grazed to a 'carpet' growth, or low {\it U. gallii} hummocks. Overgrazing seems to be concentrated around the periphery of the common.
On the Beacon itself much of the heather seems to be in good condition (of young to mid age). Grazing has kept the {\it Molinia} largely in the non-tussocky form.

The summit of Cosdon Hill, Cosdon Beacon, White Hill, Little Hound Tor and Raybarrow Pool area support healthy heather i.e.the H2, M15 and upper reaches of the H4 areas. Slightly overgrazed heather occurs mid-slope in the H4 areas flanking the W,N and E sides of the Beacon. Severe overgrazing of heather is mainly on the lowest slopes of B11, D5 etc., especially in the N of the site between a disused leat and Skaigh Warren.

Ramsley Hill provides an interesting diversity of habitats. Patches of heath should be encouraged, possibly by temporary fencing. The {\it Pteridium aquilinum} should be controlled from further spread.


FAUNA:
Fauna seen: Meadow Pipit, Crow and Stonechat.

VEG:
NOTE: The information was derived from the air photo mainly, with a short field visit (time constraints) and is therefore, not thoroughly covered.

NVC communities include: H4, U20, U4a and U3.  The vegetation is contiguous with, and similar to, that of adjacent commons of CL25 and CL103 - please see these sites for details of floristic composition of D11.

Much of the site is clothed in dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (C11) with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ulex europaeus}, plus young {\it Quercus robur} on the lowest slopes.  Most of this is growing over impoverished grassy sward of acid grassland (B11).

The dry dwarf shrub heath on the highest ground consists mainly of {\it Ulex gallii}-dominated H4, although areas where {\it Calluna vulgaris} is locally prominent approach H12 or H10a.

In places this forms a mosaic with acid grassland to form D5 and B11/D11 intermediate areas of "grass-heath" (these areas appear grass-dominated by {\it Agrostis curtisii} or {\it Festuca ovina} at distance, but often contain a considerable amount of short {\it U. gallii} and {\it C. vulgaris}).

MANAGE:
The area is grazed by sheep, ponies and cattle.  Heather condition appear to be mostly reasonable - in the area ground truthed.


VEG:
The industrial disturbance of the commons in this area (CLs 205, 115, 189, 190) makes them interesting for their potential in ecological restoration. However their changing nature and shortage of surveyors' time meant that they were not surveyed in detail.

The scrub area supported {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, Fagus sylvatica, Quercus robur} with some quite substantial trees. The ground flora included substantial {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia flexuosa}.

The southern parts of the grassland area were grazed pure acid grassland with {\it Agrostis} sp., {\it D. flexuosa, Galium saxatile, P. erecta, Hypochaeris radicata}.

The main body of Crownhill Down appears to be acid grassland as above with {\it Ulex europaeus} patches and areas, probably expanding, of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
The China clay works area affords good prospects for ecological restoration.

The acid grassland area would benefit from the ecological diversity point of view by a reduction in grazing, and the control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} before it gets too invasive.


FAUNA:
Birds seen: Carrion Crow, Pied Wagtail, Blackheaded Gull.

VEG:
These 3 blocks of common land lie on moderately high ground on the western outskirts of Dartmoor, and mainly support a limited range of habitats i.e. a mixture of acid grassland, {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex} scrub. However, there are some areas of higher botanical interest, particularly in the area of the National Trust reserve on Dewerstone and Wigford Down, where there is broadleaf woodland, plus some flushes.

B11	   
The main community present appears to be U3 although U4a (and U4b) occurs. Most of the B11 on Wigford and Lynch commons appears to be U3, some approaches U4e or U5. The areas of U4a (e.g. in the N. of Yennadon) are dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca 
ovina} with frequent {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. The U3 is marked by abundant {\it Agrostis curtisii} in addition to the above 4 species at high frequencies. Other species characteristic of this vegetation at lower abundances include {\it Nardus stricta, Carex binervis, Carex panicea, Festuca rubra, Molinia caerulea} (sparse), {\it Hypochoeris radicata, Ulex gallii} (sparse and low growing), {\it Calluna vulgaris} (sparse, carpet form), {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Dicranum scoparium, Hypnum cupressiforme, Calypogeia} sp.
The presence of some {\it Ulex gallii} heath (NVC H4) species suggests some of the U3 may be degraded/overgrazed (?) former heath (d11). On Wigford Down in particular some areas approach H4 where carpet {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Ulex gallii} occur together on steeper slopes and hummocks.

A22 and A21    
Scattered and dense scrub occurs in association with B11 throughout the whole common. Mostly it is of {\it U. europaeus} but {\it Crataegus monogyna} is locally frequent ( e.g. in the S. of Yennadon and Lynch Common). Much of the {\it Ulex europaeus} has been browsed to a 'topiary' form, or even a 'drumstick' shape, particularly on Yennadon and Lynch common. There are areas of sallow scrub alongside some steams on Wigford Down.

C11 and C12   
Scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is often found amongst the acid grassland and {\it Ulex} complexes. Areas of continuous {\it Pteridium} also occur, covering substantial areas of Lynch Common and Yennadon Down, particularly on lower slopes and flatter areas. A22 scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} is often associated with continuous {\it P. aquilinum}.

B12		
Semi-improved acid grassland in a trampled zone around carparks (e.g. in the N of Yennadon Down) is mainly of NVC U4b and dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris}.

G13	 
Pools occur in disused china clay works in the W of Wigford Down. They appear to be virtually lifeless, oligotrophic or marly waters of a 
bluey-chalky colour. One is very deep, others are shallow, with the margins supporting degraded NVC community M6a or M6c with B11 mosaic. G11 eutrophic pool, much poached by stock, and supporting mainly {\it Callitriche} sp.
occurs high up on Yennadon Down, surrounded by B11 and A22 ({\it Ulex europaeus}) vegetation.

G2	
Oligotrophic streams occur in the Wigford Down and Dewerstone parts of the common. On Hynch Common there is a tiny stream, and likewise in the W of Yennadon Down in the woodland (there is reasonable bryophyte cover on boulders of the latter).

E21   
Acid flushes are found in the N of Wigford Down associated with a small stream. NVC communities present include M6a, M6c and M29 with abundant {\it Hypericum elodes, P. polygonifolius, Sphagna} and locally frequent {\it Juncus effusus}.

A111   
Semi-natural broadleaved woodland covers small areas of the lower slopes of Yennadon and Wigford Downs. There is a larger area at Dewerstone-see National Trust survey below). {\it Q. robur} and {\it Betula} sp. are the main canopy trees (there are a few {\it F. sylvatica} in the Yennadon stand). Associated species include {\it P. aquilinum}, bryophytes that cover the bouldery ground, {\it Coryllus avellana, Alnus glutinosa, Crataegus monogyna}.

Dewerstone Wood: Quoting from National Trust Biological Survey- ' The lower slope of the Meavy valley supports rather varied woodland vegetation. Close to the river {\it Fagus sylvatica} is very much the canopy dominant but there are also a few large {\it Q. robur} immediatley adjacent to the riverside footpath. Areas of more open ground also occur in which there are saplings of {\it Betula} sp. and {\it Quercus petraea} Youngish mixtures of broadleaves, including, most commonly, {\it Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula} sp. but also some {\it Coryllus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} and young {\it Fagus sylvatica} also occur on the lower ground, especially where it is locally rather damp. At the northern end of the wood {\it Fraxinus} and {\it Ilex} join {\it Fagus} in a more structurally varied understorey.'

J5   
Mainly carparks and minor roads. Most parking areas lie in disused quarries or old china clay works.

MANAGE:
Yennadon Down, Lynch Common and much of Wigford Down are heavily grazed by sheep, cattle and ponies. Much of the acid grassland show signs of overgrazing and even the {\it Ulex europaeus} is browsed to a 'topiary' form. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub invasion is occurring.
It is possible that some of the U3 areas (especially Yennadon and Wigford) may represent degraded H4 dry {\it Ulex gallii} as there is a low cover of close-grazed 'carpet' {\it Calluna vulgaris} and/or {\it U. gallii} in some areas. Overgrazing may be a problem here.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Meadow pipits, Snipe, Wheatear, Pied wagtail, Kestrel.
Frogs
Craneflies, damselflies.

VEG:
Acid grassland predominates over the slopes of much of Great Mis Tor. This area includes large boulder fields with associated micro habitats, and some good lichen and bryophyte growth. An area that straddles the boundary onto CL164 has blanket bog with species such as {\it Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Erica cinerea, Galium saxatile}. This area is one of the few areas of heath that is in at all healthy on this common. Ingra Tor and Sharpitor also support some heath. The River Walkham forms the NW boundary of the common with small areas of valley mire and flush.  
Proceeding S to the Princeton road one encounters mostly acid grassland with some areas (near the Range Notice Boards) that have patches of heath species and some areas where {\it Molinia caerulea} is well in evidence with {\it Potentilla erecta, Carex binervis, Nardus stricta}. 

South of the Princeton-Tavistock road lies an area with considerable archaeological interest with stone rows, hut circles, stone circles and cairns set in acid grassland. A leat runs roughly E to W and contains {\it R. flammula, J. effusus, R. aquatilis, Lotus corniculatus, Sphagnum cuspidatum, Polytrichum commune, Wahlembergia hederacea}.

A large valley mire area is found below and W. of Yellowmeade Farm with species such as {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Drosera rotundifolia, Sphagnum cuspidatum, E. tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, E. cinerea, J. squarrosus, Viola palustris}. Snipes and a kestrel were seen in this area.

Towards Rundlestone Tor one encounters {\it Molinia} grassland with {\it Agrostis stolonifera, P. erecta, Galium saxatile, Polytrichum commune} and occasional {\it V. myrtillus, E.cinerea}.

The old Quarry workings have wet hollows with {\it J. effusus} hummocks of {\it P. commune} and {\it Cladonia} sp. Boulders have good lichen growth including Rock Tripe. Upslope, nearer the TV mast the {\it Molinia} is more grazed with {\it Carex panicea, J. squarrosus, Erica tetralix, Dicranum} sp.   {\it V. myrtillus, Polygala serpyllifolia, Nardus stricta} in evidence. 

Proceeding towards Yellowmeade Farm there is found a similar range of species but with less {\it Molinia}. Considerable boulder fields are found and some acid flushes above Yellowmeade Farm that include {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Sphagnum} sp. {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, J. squarrosus, Polytrichum commune}.

Foggintor Quarries have large areas of standing water. The walls of the quarries support {\it Calluna vulgaris, Ulex minor, Vaccinium myrtillus, Galium saxatile, Carex binervis, Rumex acetosella, Polypodium vulgare, Sedum } sp. {\it J. effusus}. Thallose liverworts are found in small wet pockets under rock walls. These quarry walls have 'hanging garden' plants that grow on and from ledges that include {\it Blechnum spicant, Calluna vulgaris, Potentilla erecta, Chamerion angustifolium, Molinia caerulea, Dryopteris filix-mas, Green 'slime' algae, Epilobium montanum, Digitalis purpurea, Polytrichum commune}. Wetter areas by the standing water support {\it Ranunculus flammula, J. bufonius}. The higher cliffs of the quarry have 'hummocks' of {\it V. myrtillus} and {\it  Pteridium aquilinum, Dryopteris filix-mas} and occasional {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Solidago virgaurea}.A small cave/quarry trial on the N. side of Foggintor quarry might support bat colonies.

Swelltor Quarries contain similar habitats, but with a large rush-and {\it Polytrichum, Sphagnum} dominated bog area in the main quarry. 

The slopes of King's Tor support much {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Cirsium} sp. and occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna}.

Further south acid grassland predominates down to the Leeden Tor and Ingra Tor area with some areas of {\it Molinia} grassland and some areas with substantial {\it Ulex} sp. The Tors themselves have acid rock exposure (I141) with boulder fields that often support good bryophyte and lichen growth. 

{\it Pteridium aquilinum} predominates towards the south of the Common but with more acid grassland and {\it Ulex} 'tors' near the Yelverton-Princeton road.

The smaller section of CL 192 to the south that includes Peek Hill is largely dominated by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} and exposed acid grassland. Leather Tor has considerable exposed rock and boulders amongst grassland.

MANAGE:
There appears not to have been much heath habitat on this common 'within living memory' (English Nature). The blanket bog that remains on Great Mis Tor could be enhanced by reduced grazing. Measures should be taken to reduce the spread of bracken. The common has good access facilities and easy walking along contouring quarry tracks and old railways and may well serve to reduce recreational erosion pressure elsewhere. There is considerable archaeological (ancient and more recent) interest which could be more highlighted by information boards.


FAUNA:
Yellowhammer, Kestrel, Ravens, Carrion Crows, Wheatear, Meadow Pipits, Buzzards, Rook, Jackdaw, Rabbits,  Small Heath Butterfly, Fox Moth Caterpillar.

VEG:
This long, narrow common reaches from the upland fringes of south Dartmoor into the heart of the moor.  The southern part of the CL supports mainly acid grassland and dry dwarf shrub heath, with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} on the lower slopes.  The northernmost part of the CL includes areas of blanket mire, wet heath and marshy grassland.  The River Erme forms the western boundary in the northern half and many small acid flushes lead into it down the west-facing slopes.  The river valley includes areas of riverine bouldery deposits in the northernmost parts.

The probable NVC communities present include: U1, U3, U4a, U4b, U4e, U5, U20, H4, H12, M6a, M6c, M23, M25a, M25b, M15.

D11 - Dry dwarf shrub heath occupies much of the highest ground in the southren half of the common.  {\it U. gallii} heath (NVC community H4) predominates between Batterdon Hill and Piles Hill.  North of this bilberry/heather moor replaces it (NVC community H12 probably mostly).  Species characteristic of the H4 stands include {\it Ulex gallii, Calluna vulgaris, Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Carex binervis}.  The {\it U. gallii} is often the most prominent dwarf shrub.  {\it Erica cinerea} is less frequent.  Species distinguishing the H12 stands are {\it C. vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.  The latter is often the main dwarf shrub and is abundant.  (North of Dry Lake stream, the {\it C. vulgaris} is very sparse).  Other abundant species include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Pleurozium schreberi} and locally {\it Molinia caerulea} in its non-tussocky form.  Species present at lower frequencies include {\it Erica tetralix, Juncus squarrosus, Dicranum scoparium} and {\it Cladonia impexa}.  Where the H4 grades into H12, intermediate vegetation occurs (H4/H12) with co-dominant {\it V. myrtillus, C. vulgaris, U. gallii, A. curtisii} and {\it M. caerulea} (eg. the slopes of Piles Hill).  On Sharp Tor, {\it E. tetralix} is also frequent indicating a tendency to damper heath vegetation - it grades downhill into D11/D2.

B11/D11 - In many places, (possibly subject to heavy grazing pressure), a 'grass-heath' type of vegetation intermediate in character is common.  All the acid grassland species (described below) are abundant, but in addition, {\it Ulex gallii} may be frequent at low cover as scattered hummocks, as on Piles Hill and Butterdon Hill, with locally frequent {\it E. cinerea} and {\it C. vulgaris} also present (usually in the 'carpet' form).  H4/U3 is the main transitional vegetation occurring, but there are also areas of H4/U5 where {\it Nardus stricta} is abundant (eg. in the Weatherdon area).  For example, on top of Weatherdon, the B11/D11 consists of {\it N. stricta, A. curtisii} (U3/U5) plus sparse, but frequent {\it U. gallii}, frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, C. vulgaris, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Cladonia} spp., {\it Polytrichum piliferum} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.  On Piles Hill the B11/D11 transition occurs with altitude.  The B11 occupies the lower slopes, a little above this {\it U. gallii} and {\it V. myrtillus} enter the vegetation at low cover to give B11/D11 and this grades uphill into true, well-characterised D11 vegetation.  In the south of the CL, the B11/D11 is more extensive than true D11.  Where D11 grades locally into B5 or D2, {\it M. caerulea, E. tetralix, Trichophorum cespitosum} increase in abundance, whereas {\it A. curtisii} and {\it E. cinerea} decrease.

B11 - Unimproved acid grassland covers extensive areas, particularly the better drained slopes, at lower altitudes in the south of the CL.  It is often associated with/invaded by {\it P. aquilinum}.  It also occurs on hummocks along the river valley, and in a mosaic with dry heath communities higher up (D5).  Most of the B11 is very close-grazed.  The principal NVC communities present are U3, U4 and U5.  Intermediate U3/U5 also occurs.  U4a (bent-fescue grassland) dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} occurs around the southernmost margins of the site.  U4a also forms part of he vegetation mosaic along stream valleys and the valley of the R. Erme.  U4e is likely where {\it N. stricta} is locally frequent.  U3, marked by abundant {\it A. curtisii}, seems to be found at slightly higher altitude.  Much of the B11 in the Piles Hill area has co-dominant {\it N. stricta} and {\it A. curtisii} and is likely to be U3/U5 with areas of genuine U5 probably relatively small.  Species commonly occurring in the acid grassland stands include: {\it A. capillaris, A. curtisii, Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Festuca rubra, Carex binervis, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.  Other species are more localized such as {\it Juncus squarrosus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Carex panicea, Ulex gallii, C. vulgaris, Achillea millefolium} (on paths), {\it Carex pilulifera, Anthoxanthum odoratum, M. caerulea, Rumex acetosella} (around tors), {\it Luzula campestris/multiflora, Pseudoscleropodium purum, Campylopus} spp., {\it Polytrichum juniperinum} and {\it Cladonia uncialis} (around boulders), {\it C. impexa} and cup {\it Cladonias}.

C11 and C12 - Continuous and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are mainly associated with U4a type acid grassland species and of little obvious botanical interest.  Some {\it P. aquilinum} grows above an understorey of B11/D11 or {\it V. myrtillus} D11 heath.  The main associated species being {\it A. capillaris, F. ovina} and {\it V. myrtillus}.  On the slopes of Western Beacon, scattered and browsed {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes are found in the {\it P/ aquilinum} (A22) on the lower slopes.  {\it P. aquilinum} also occurs along the R. Erme valley bottom and along some of the streamsides.

I141 - Small bouldery outcrops occur in many places, plus granite tors on Western Beacon, Sharp Tor, etc..  Bouldery river deposits from 'islands' along the upper reaches of the Erme Valley and Stony Bottom, in the north of the site.  There are also small 'boulder fields' in the valley between Harford Moor Gate, Spurrells' Cross and Weatherdon.  Species found amongst the tors and boulders include: {\it Sedum anglicum, Polytrichum piliferum, P. juniperinum, Polypodium vulgare}, a wide variety of lichens, and species such as {\it Rumex acetosella} of U1 and U4a grasslands.

E17/B5 - {\it Molinia}-dominated vegetation referrable to NVC community M25 covers sizeable areas in the north half of the CL.  It is mostly M25b, ({\it Anthoxanthum} sub-community) with slightly tussocky {\it M. caerulea}, accompanies by a few other frequent species at low cover amongst the tussocks, eg. {\it P. erecta, C. vulgaris}.  It is moderately-grazed by the cattle and ponies.  It is mapped as E17/B5 (modified blanket bog/marshy grassland) since peat depth was not always ascertainable, and this vegetation could arguably be assigned to either depending on this.  There is no hummock and hollow blanket bog structure to this vegetation.

E17/D2 - Vegetation with abundant {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, M. caerulea}, and {\it C. vulgaris}, which falls into the NVC community M15 wet heath, could also be allocated to either E17 or D2 (wet heath) according to peat depth.  The general lack of {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Sphagna} floristically suggests wet heath rather than blanket bog however.  There is no hummock and hollow structure as in classic unmodified blanket bog on this CL.

The M15 grades locally into the M25, and often forms a mosaic with it (eg. in the Brown Heath area).  Transitional vegetation (M15/25 or D2/B5) also occurs and is marked by dominant {\it M. caerulea}, frequent {\it P. erecta, C. vulgaris} and {\it T. cespitosum} at low cover.  Other species found as 'occasionals' in the E17/D2 include {\it Carex panicea, Drosera rotundifolia, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Sphagna} spp., and locally frequent {\it Erica tetralix}.

In general, the 'D2' is closer grazed than the 'B5' and has non-tussocky (lawn) {\it M. caerulea}, which is subordinate in cover to the {\it Trichophorum} and often to the ericoids also.

E21 - Acid flush vegetation is associated with small streams, springs and river banks throughout the length of the common.  Most falls into NVC communities M6a, M6c and M29.  The best area of M29 is the large complex of flushes along the stream, just east of Harford Moor Gate in the south of the CL.  There are numerous small M6a flushes throughout the CL.  Many show considerable signs of stock poaching.  Species frequent in most of the flushes include: {\it Sphagnum recurvum, S. palustre, S. auriculatum, M. caerulea, Agrostis canina, Juncus effusus, J. bulbosus, Viola palustris, Potentilla erecta, Galium palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Polytrichum commune, Carex panicea, C. viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa} and {\it Narthecium ossifragum}.  Other commonly occurring species are: {\it Ranunculus flammula, R. omiophyllus} (eg. at Addicombe), {\it Juncus squarrosus, Carex echinata, Erica tetralix, Eriophorum angustifolium, Anagallis tenella} (Harford Moor Gate area flushes), {\it Cirsium palustre, Rumex acetosa, Sphagum cuspidatum, S. papillosum} and leafy liverworts.

The M29 is particularly characterised by abundant {\it Hypericum elodes} and {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius}.  E21 forms a mosaic with E17/D2 in the north of the site forming an interesting complex of mire vegetation just south of Stony Bottom, of M15 and M6a mostly.

E31 - Valley mire complex lines the R. Erme and Stony Bottom.  The principal NVC communities include M6c, M6a, M25b, U4a and U20 (on hummocks of bouldery deposits upstream, and on banksides).  There are lesser areas of M23b rush-pasture.  Some of the rush-pasture and {\it M. caerulea} vegetation is tall and tussocky and flooded between the tussocks.  Generally the species are those listed for E21 (above).  Some of the M6 is very poached by stock in places, even right up in the north of the CL.  Drier parts of the river banks have U4a right to the waters edge.

G2 - Oligotrophic upland waterways - several small streams arise as springs, many running into the River Erme.  The river is clear and peat-coloured, with good bryophyte cover on submerged boulders.  Most of the streams are associated with M6a flushes, and some (as at Harford Moor Gate complex) spread out, branch and flow through flushes of M6a and M29 soakaways.

MANAGE:
The CL is stocked with mainly sheep and cattle, but also a few ponies.  Many streamsides and flushes are quite heavily poached and the acid grassland and dry heath complex in the south of the common is quite heavily stocked and showing signs of overgrazing in places.  {\it Agrostis curtisii} and {\it Nardus stricta} are abundant or dominant in such areas.  Dunging is particularly heavy around sheltered spots in the lee of rock outcrops and tors, with consequent localized eutrophication and species such as {\it Urtica dioica}, dominant {\it Agrostis capillaris} and colonists of bare, trampled ground such as {\it Sagina procumbens} and {\it Rumex acetosella} reflect these pressures (eg. at the top of Western Beacon).

Bracken encroachment and overgrazing may be the main management problems, especially in the southern half of the common.

South of Piles Hill, there are few areas of healthy well-grown heather.  Most dwarf shrubs in this area consist of sparse "carpet" ericoids and hummocks of {\it Ulex gallii}.  Even the {\it U. gallii} is "scrappy" and closely-grazed in some areas (eg. parts of the Weatherdon area).  The DNP Heather Condition Map of this area shows the highest ground to be slightly overgrazed - this latter roughly corresponds to the areas of B11/D11, where dwarf shrubs are sparse and 'carpet' form in an acid grassland physiognomy, or where {\it U. gallii} is present, but very little ericoids.  Much of the heath on Sharp Tor and Piles Hill is not permitted to be burnt.

To the north of Sharp Tor, the ground is often wetter with more {\it M. caerulea} vegetation and seems to be preferred by cattle (the sheep tend to show a preference for the B11, C11 and D11 areas, in general) and there are fewer overgrazed areas.  The D2 seems to be more heavily grazed than the B5.  Most of the heather is more healthy (ie. taller than the 'carpet' form) in the north of the site, although in the denser {\it M. caerulea} it is out-competed and not always at high cover.  {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is quite abundant on the drier slopes and forms hummocks.


FAUNA:
Observed on site visit: Nuthatch, Wren. The wood may be important for sheltering and roosting birds as it is adjacent to large areas of open wetland.

VEG:
VEGETATION: The woodland has a fairly diverse structure with young saplings and many mature trees. {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus} sp. are dominant and other trees include {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Populus tremula, Fagus sylvatica, Crataegus monogyna} and some {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Buxus sempervirens}. The ground flora is variable, with some areas apparently acidic, with {\it Luzula sylvatica} dominant, and others with base indicators such as {\it Polygonatum multiflorum, Tamus communis and Mercurialis perennis}. The flora is further complicated by garden escapes, including a 
variegated form of {\it Glechoma hederacea}. Other species present include {\it Polypodium vulgare, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Arum maculatum} and {\it Anemone nemorosa} (the latter was not visible at the time of the survey but appears on an explanatory board at the start of the Barnstaple-Bideford Coast Path). There is a rocky spring at the eastern end which has been walled off as a grotto, and may have interesting bryophytes.

MANAGE:
MANAGEMENT: The footpath crossing the site has been surfaced and a short section of wooden fencing erected to try to reduce erosion. There seems to be no coherent management, though some trees at the top of the slope have been inexpertly trimmed to improve the views from adjoining gardens. Littering and dumping of garden waste are the main problems, and much of the area around the path at the top is disturbed and eutrophicated.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Buzzard, Magpie.

Butterflies: Meadow Brown, Small tortoiseshell.

VEG:
The long section of CL218 opposite Lakehead Cottage has acid grassland near the road which grades to marshy grassland with some wet heath and mire communities.

The grassland supports {\it Achillea millefolium, Rhinanthus minor, Rumex acetosa, Euphrasia} agg. {\it Potentilla erecta, Centaurea nigra, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Hypochoeris radicata, Pedicularis sylvatica}. A rutted track across the field has {\it Polygonum hydropiper, Filago germanica, Matricaria matricarioides}.
Further N. {\it Ulex} sp. {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia flexuosa} is found with {\it Sorbus aucuparia} trees.
Ditches/streamssides by stone bridges include {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius, Ranunculus flammula, Nartecium ossifragum, Juncus effusus, Sphagnum cuspidatum, Sphagnum} sp. {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Juncus articulatus, Myosotis} sp. {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Succisa pratensis, Cytisus scoparius, Blechnum spicant, Carex flacca, Carex panicea, Polytrichum commune, Mnium hornum}.

The northernmost area supports an acid grassland, wet heath mosaic with {\it Ulex europaeus}. Species present include {\it J. effusus, P. erecta, Poa annua, Rumex acetosa, Holcus lanatus, Betula} sp. Grassier areas include {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Ranunculus} sp.{\it J. effusus, Rumex acetosella, J. squarrosus}. A line of {\it Sorbus aucuparia} exists on the western side.

The section near Middle Merripits has a bank/wall on the northern side with {\it Polypodium vulgare, Vaccinium myrtillus, Umbellicus rupestris}. The wall is overhung by {\it Fagus sylvatica, Crataegus monogyna, Salix} sp. {\it Prunus spinosa}. There is good bryophyte growth ({\it Dicranum} sp. and {\it Hypnum mammilatum/cupressiforme}. To the south of the access road to the farm includes {\it P. erecta, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Deschampsia flexuosa, Ranunculus} spp. {\it Euphrasia} agg. {\it Cerastium fontanum, Odontites verna, Lamnium purpureum, Polygonum hydropiper}, and patches of thorn scrub with {\it Rubus fruticosus, Ulex} sp. Agricultural machinery is left (abandoned?). An area by the road is mown and there is electric fencing to control casual grazing.

The third section near Pizwell has grazed acid grassland with a species-rich valley mire. This supports {\it Viola palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Ranunculus flammula, Sphagnum cuspidatum, Sphagum} sp. {\it Juncus bufonius, Pedicularis palustris, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Menyanthes trifoliata, Hypericum elodes, Carex flacca, Carex panicea, Scutellaria minor, Iris pseudocorus, Wahlembergia hederacea, Anagallis tenella, Holcus lanatus, Drosera rotundifolia, Juncus acutiflorus, Caltha palustris}.

MANAGE:
Grazing of the grasslands was light at the time of survey. The valley mire near Pizwell is of great interest and may warrant more formal protection.


