# file3

FAUNA:
Birds seen: Thrush, Blackbird, Magpie, Wood pigeon, Green woodpecker.

VEG:
The north-east facing side of the common supports Broad-leaved woodland that includes {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre} with understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Coryllus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Taxus baccata}. Ground flora species include {\it Circaea lutetiana, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Geranium robertianum, Melica uniflora, Geum urbanum, Mercuralis perennis}. Under power lines wood/scrub is cut back but {\it Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} is regenerating. Occasional clumps of {\it Symphoricarpos albus} at edges.

South of Rose Cottage is also woodland of {\it Q. robur/Fraxinus excelsior} with {\it A. campestre, Ruscus aculeatus, Crataegus monogyna, Mercuralis perennis}. South of this area and also across the minor road is rank grassland with {\it Holcus lanatus, Phleum pratense, Alopecurus pratensis, Agrostis} sp. {\it Dactylis glomerata, Potentilla anserina, Centaurea nigra, Pulicaria dysenterica, Ranunculus bulbosus, R. acris, Carex otrubae, Carex hirta, Juncus inflexus, Poa trivialis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cardamine pratensis, Apium nodiflorum, Cruciata laevipes, Cynosurus cristatus} and substantial {\it Cirsium} spp.

MANAGE:
Little active management. To the south east a private fishing lake constructed and area landscaped in 1985. Coppicing under power lines.


VEG:
The east side of the common is road edged by {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Betula} sp.
North of Wingfield Farm is rough grassland of {\it Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium pratense, Senecio jacobaea, Chamerion angustifolium, Rubus fruticosus, Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis} sp. with some {\it Salix, Fraxinus excelsior} scrub with {\it Fallopia japonica, Symphoriocarpus alba}.

Other small areas exist of woodland of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica, Salix, Acer pseudocorus}.

MANAGE:
{\it Fallopia japonica} needs treatment.


FAUNA:
Birds seen: Jay, Greater-spotted woodpecker, Chaffinch, Wren.
Meadow brown butterfly.

VEG:
This common is mostly acidic grassland adjacent to a minor road with {\it Trifolium campestre, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Rumex} sp. {\it Ranunculus repens, Cirsium arvense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Geranium} spp. {\it Galium saxatile, Plantago major, Sanguisorba minor, Pimpinella saxifraga, Malva sylvestris, Thymes druceii, Glechoma hederacea, Linaria vulgaris, Lotus corniculatus, Campanula rotundifolia}. The grassland is backed by scrub of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Coryllus avellana} with some {\it Quercus robur} trees. The scrub is closer to woodland at the southern end of the common.

MANAGE:
Logs placed to prevent cars parking on grassland.
Scrub could be restricted to enhance grassland.


VEG:
The sports grounds are amenity grassland. There is a wooded path through the centre of the common which includes {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Betula pendula} and understorey species such as {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Fagus sylvatica, Taxus baccata, Ulex europaeus, Castanea sativa}, with ground flora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Campanula rotundifolia, Hedera helix, Urtica dioica}.

Trees such as {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur} line the roadside.


VEG:
This common is almost all road verge and amenity grassland. Green Lane has a track bordered by trees of {\it Quercus robur} with some {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior} as understorey. Ground flora species are restricted here but include {\it Hedera helix, Arum maculatum, Geum urbanum, Anthriscus sylvaticus}.


FAUNA:
Coots, Moorhens, Wood pigeon.

Recorded in SSSI Citation: Reed Warblers, Sedge Warblers, Grasshopper Warblers, Reed Bunting, Grey Wagtail, Water Rail, Redshank.

VEG:
The fen species visible from available viewpoints include {\it Typha latifolia, Glyceria maxima, Eupatorium cannabinum, Epilobium hirsutum, Pulicaria dysenterica, Carex paniculata, Phalaris arundinacea, Phragmites australis, Carex acutiformis, Carex riparia, Lycopus eupatoria, Impatiens capensis}. 

Islands in the stream support {\it Salix} spp.

The steep banks below Nun's Walk have substantial woodland with {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Taxus baccata, Pinus sylvestris} and understorey species of {\it Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa, Viburnum lantana, Clematis vitalba, Euonymus europaeus}.

MANAGE:
Sedge-rich fen still managed by annual burning.


FAUNA:
Goldfinch, Wood pigeon, Chaffinch, Blackbirds.

VEG:
The western end of this common supports woodland of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Salix} sp. over tall grasses. Understorey species include {\it Coryllus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Salix} sp. {\it Ilex aquifolium} with ground flora of {\it Urtica dioica} (large patches), {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Cirsium} sp. {\it Phragmites australis}. The non-wooded parts of the western end show the above ground flora species plus substantial {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Rubus fruticosus, Arctium minus}.

A triangle of neutral grassland used for recreation is central to this common with a small car park and footpath. The river edge grades to tall fen including {\it Artemisia vulgaris, Silene alba, Arrhenatherum elatius, Urtica dioica, Cirsium} spp., {\it Iris pseudocorus, Heracleum sphondylium, Vicia cracca, Galium aparine, Filipendula ulmaria, Glyceria maxima, Eupatorium cannabinum, Epilobium hirsutum, Symphytum officinale}.

The footpath rises up a bank to the north end and passes through rank grasses with {\it Centaurea nigra, Equisetum} sp. {\it Knautia arvensis, Plantago major, Ranunculus repens, Torilis japonica} with some areas of scrub species such as {\it P. spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Salix} sp.

MANAGE:
Part of northern grassland is mown, path maintained by frequent use.


VEG:
The acidic grassland areas that form the main part of this common support well-grazed flora that includes {\it Hypochoeris radicata, Senecio jacobaea, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens, Holcus lanatus, Campanula rotundifolia, Rumex acetosella, Cerastium fontanum, Prunella vulgaris, Plantago coronopus, Trifolium campestre, Cirsium} ssp. {\it Lolium perenne, Stellaria graminea, Cirsium nutans, Pulicaria dysenterica}. Wetter flushes to the centre of the common include {\it Potentilla rupestris, Gnaphalium uliginosum, Polygonum persicaria, Carex flacca, Ranunculus flammula, Iris pseudocorus, Myosotis} sp. {\it Mentha aquatica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris}.

The banks of the drain on the downslope side support Iris pseudocorus, Menyanthes trifoliata, Plantago alisma-aquatica, Callitriche} sp. and {\it Salix} sp. scrub.

There are some large patches of {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it P. aquilinum} that are checked by grazing.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Skylarks, Great Tit, Pheasant, Magpie, Stone Curlews (reported by Bird watchers), Red-legged Partridges, Lapwings, Stonechat, Wren.

Other species recorded: Nightingale, Lesser Whitethroat, Tree Pipit, Willow Warbler, Linnet, Yellowhammer, Barn Owl, Hobby, Buzzard, Hen Harrier, Kestrel, Short-eared Owl, Quail. Montagu's Harrier.

Butterflies recorded: Adonis Blue, Small Blue, Silver-spotted Skipper, Marsh Fritillary, Marbled White, Dark-green Fritillary, Chalkhill Blue, Duke of Burgundy.

Fox, Rabbits, Roe Deer, Slow worm, Moles.

VEG:
Quoting from National Nature Reserve citation:

'The chalk flora is exceptionally rich and includes species with both distinctly south-west and eastern distribution in Britain; at least 8 very local species of orchid are present. At least three distinctive types of chalk-heath are present and there are extensive areas of chalk scrub.

...and quoting from the SSSI citation:

'Of particular note are the large populations of {\it Thesium humifusum, Senecio integrifolius, Gentianella anglica, Serratula tinctoria, Centaurium pulchellum, Orchis ustulata, Orchis morio, Ophrys insectifera, Coeloglossum viride}. The downland is exceptionally interesting in that it comprises grassland of varying ages, ranging from ancient herb-rich swards carpeting the Bronze Age earthworks and Bokerly Ditch, through herb-rich grassland last ploughed 400 years ago, to areas of comparatively recent turf ploughed in the 1940's and now reverting. The thorough documentation of the site provides a first-class opportunity for studying the influence of historical factors on the present-day vegetation. Sheep grazing is currently increasing the botanical quality of the turf following a period of undergrazing in the 1960's and 1970's.'

NVC grassland communities present:  CG3/CG6/MG1/CG3d/CG2a/CG3a.

The triangle of wood/scrub on the south of Vernditch Chase and the NW corner of this common was downland in 1924 (Ancient Woodland survey notes).

Adjacent to the A354 is MG1 grassland. Beyond earth banks lies scrub, wood and some grasslands. The scrub includes {\it Prunus spinosa, Viburnum lantana, Sorbus aria, Ligustrum vulgare} with ground flora that includes {\it Rosa canina, Mercuralis perennis, Galium odoratum, Glechoma hederacea, Arum maculatum, Molinia caerulea, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana} (coppiced). By Bronze Age Barrow the scrub has been cut back and the grassland heavily rabbit-grazed. An area of {\it Quercus/Betula} about half way along the path to Kitt's Grave has been cut back recently for the benefit of ground flora which at time of survey included {\it Ajuga reptans, Potentilla erecta, Orchis mascula}. Another cleared area further north includes {\it Orchis mascula, Viola canina, Origanum vulgare, Primula veris, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia cespitosa}.

North of Grim's Ditch lies further woodland with extensive {\it Quercus robur/Corylus avellana} with {\it Sorbus aria} at the north end and old {\it Quercus robur} grown from coppice. The western side of this area still has scrub including species such as {\it C. monogyna, Ligustrum vulgare, Prunus spinosa, Rhamnus catharticus, Cornus sanguinea}. Within this is a long area of unimproved calcareous grassland which is {\it Bromus erectus} dominated and also supports {\it Sanguisorba minor, Viola hirta, Carex flacca, Lotus corniculatus, Scabiosa columbaria, Galium verum, Primula veris, Filipendula vulgaris, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Centaurium erythraea, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Helianthemum chamaedrys, Centaurium pulchellum}.

At the northern corner of a large field (OS 042208) lies a small wood of great variety and beauty including {\it Quercus robur, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula} with 1 or 2 {\it Fagus sylvatica} and occasional {\it Ulex europaeus}. There is much deadwood in situ (good for invertebrates). The ground flora is very diverse including {\it Orchis mascula, Oxalis acetosella, Conopodium majus, Arctium minus, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Galium odoratum, Allium ursinum, Adoxa moschatelina, Ranunculus ficaria, Mercuralis perennis, Saniculea europea, Silene dioica, Stellaria holostea, Galium aparine, Arum maculatum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Clematis vitalba, Geranium robertianum, Milium effusum}. Mossy banks support {\it Mnium hornum, Eurynchium praelongum}. Scrub at the edge of this woodland includes {\it Galeobdolon luteum, Veronica} sp. {\it Lamium album, Potentilla anserina, Chrysanthemum leucanthemum}.  

Information boards by car park off A354. The slopes NE of the car park support CG3/6 mosaic with bushes of {\it Ulex europaeus}. By Grim's Ditch lies a large area of scrub including {\it Cornus sanguinea, Rosa} sp. {\it Viburnum lantana, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus, Ligustrum vulgare} and ground flora of {\it Hypericum} sp.{\it Senecio jacobaea, Potentilla sterilis}.

The calcicolus grasslands (sheep grazed) have many bank structures of Martin Down Camp, sporadic {\it Ulex} bushes and other scrub. Flora of the banks include {\it Origanum vulgare, Achillea millefolium, Sanguisorba minor, Thymus druceii, Verbascum} sp. Ancient herb-rich swards cover the earthworks especially on Bokerly Ditch. Areas of scrub on the Ditch have been coppiced to encourage ground flora. Grazing is controlled by electric fencing. A large area is fenced off to protect ground-nesting birds (Stone Curlews). The eastern edge of the common is {\it C. monogyna} hedge.

The grasslands of the eastern end of the common have areas of scrub of {\it C. monogyna, Ulex europaeus, Viburnum lantana, Taxus baccata}. Upslope substantial scrub is spreading from Grim's Ditch and within this is an area of chalk heath with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella, Ulex minor, Agrostis} sp. {\it Cladonia} lichens and bryophytes {\it Dicranum scoparium, Polystichum} sp. {\it Carex humilis} 'in a chalk heath community is not known in any other site.' (SSSI)

MANAGE:
Sheep grazing controlled by temporary fencing.  Area protected for ground-nesting birds. This common is well-used for research into grassland ecology. Opportunities for more public information about archaeology/ecology. Much scrub clearance past and present.


FAUNA:
Seen during the survey: Yellowhammer, Magpie,
Blue Tits, Starling.
Recorded: Dunnock, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Robin, Thrush, Wren, Blackcap, Bullfinch, Woodlark, Nightjar, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, House Sparrow, Lesser Whitethroat. A valuable site for migrant species due to proximity to coast. Possible site for Dartford Warbler.

VEG:
The part of this common between Milford Rd. and Barton Common Rd. has substantial {\it Quercus robur/Betula pubescens} woodland (NVC W11) with some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, Coryllus avellana, Crataegus monogyna}, the ground flora has much {\it Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Hypericum androsaemum, Adoxa moschatellina, Anthriscus sylvestris, Athryrium felix-femina, Galium aparine, Galium palustre, Geranium robertianum, Heracleum sphondylium, Holcus mollis, Hyancinthoides non-scripta, Juncus effusus, Lonicera periclymenum, Milium effusum, Moehringia trinervia, Sambucus nigra, Salix capraea, Rumex acetosa, Ribes uva-crispa, Veronica hederacea, Stellaria holostea, Prunus laurocerasus}. Near the road junction, open mown grass areas are found with some {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile}. A large open area near the Lodge supports a grassland/heath mosaic that includes {\it P. erecta, Agostis curtisii, Agrostis canina, Holcus lanatus, Erica cinerea, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Polygala serpyllifolia, Molinia caerulea, Teucrium scorodonia, Achillea millefolium}. The North-eastern edge of the common has scrub/woodland of {\it Quercus robur, Salix cinerea, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ulex europaeus} and substantial {\it Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica, Circaea lutetiana, Carex sylvatica}. A very small area of {\it Molinia caerulea} with {\it Myrica gale} is found south of the open area (noted as B5).This remnant is slowly scrubbing over. The drain (see map) is surrounded by {\it Quercus robur} wood.

Much former heath that used to occupy most of the rest of Barton Common has scrubbed over with {\it Q. robur, Betula pubescens, Sambucus nigra, Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium, Malus sylvatica}. Alongside Barton Common Road however substantial heath or heathy grassland is retained, often used for recreation. Species found here include {\it Agrostis curtisii, Holcus lanatus, Erica cinerea, Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Rumex acetosella, Teucrium scorodonia, Ulex europaeus, U. minor, Hypochoeris radicata}. The western end of the common has {\it Quercus robur} woodland with {\it Betula} sp., {\it Sambucus nigra, Acer pseudoplatanus}. A large council storage/dumping area is found here.

Other species found on the common include {\it Carex binervis, Carex pilulifera, Carex panicea, Danthonia decumbens, Juncus acutiflorus, Ranunculus flammula, Salix repens, Ulex gallii, Viola canina, Viola riviniana}. Bryophytes recorded include: {\it Campylopus} spp. {\it Dicranella heteromalla, Mnium punctatum, Sphagnum recurvum, Polytrichum} sp. {\it Mnium hornum}. Lichens: {\it Cladonia chlorophaea, Evernia prunastri}.

MANAGE:
Heathland areas and remaining {\it Myrica gale} need to be protected/restored from scrub encroachment.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Blackbird, Wren, Great Tit, Chaffinch.  Butterflies: Speckled Wood.

VEG:
The main part of this common is {\it Quercus robur} woodland with some {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, with understorey trees of {\it Corylus avellana, Salix} sp. and ground flora of {\it Clematis vitalba, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus}. The SW corner supports {\it Fraxinus excelsior} wood with {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} as understorey.Here ground flora is a bit more varied including {\it Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Allium petiolata, Circaea lutetiana, Prunella vulgaris, Lapsana communis, Geum urbanum}.

The eastern parts of the common have areas of acid grassland with species such as {\it Potentilla erecta, Prunella vulgaris, Ranunculus flammula, Hypochoeris radicata, Plantago lanceolata, Agrostis} sp. {\it Cerastium fontanum, Mentha aquatica, Polygonum persicaria, Dactylis glomerata}.

MANAGE:
Paths are well used. Much abandoned farm machinery at one point. Woodland unmanaged.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Blackbird, Crows, Wood pigeon.

VEG:
The northern end of this common includes {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Fagus sylvatica} wood with understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra, Betula} sp. {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} and ground flora of substantial {\it Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum}. There are some small garden trees {\it Cypressus}. Some cutting back of woodland occurs under power lines. 

Mown grassland is found by roadsides with {\it Trifolium pratense, Trifolium repens, Plantago major, Lolium perenne, Alopecurus pratensis, Hypochoeris radicata, Taxcorum} sp {\it Trifolium  campestre, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Heracleum sphondylium, Ranunculus acris, Centaurea nigra, Holcus lanatus, Vicia} sp. {\it Daucus carota}. Grass areas are often edged by scrub {\it P. aquilinum, R. fruticosus, Salix, Corylus, Prunus}.

Village bonfire site, 'No Parking' signs, Memorial tree and seat evident.

Southern parts of the common are also amenity grasslands with planted Cherry and some {\it Rhododendron} sp.

MANAGE:
Managed for amenity. Coppicing under power lines.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Jay, Wood pigeon, Chaffinch.

Shrew.

VEG:
The common is mostly {\it Quercus robur} woodland with little ground flora due to shading. The few open areas support stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Teucrium scorodonia, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Dryopteris dilitata}. There are some mossy banks that include {\it Polytrichum} sp. {\it Mnium hornum}.  Some straggly {\it Ulex europaeus} and occasional {\it Rhododendron ponticum} found near edges of the common. Scrub is found near the western end with {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior. Salix} sp. and some old {\it Corylus avellana} coppice.

MANAGE:
No apparent management. {\it Rhododendron ponticum} may spread.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Jays, Wood pigeon, Pheasant, Yellowhammer.

Butterflies: Marbled White, Meadow Brown.

Moles, Rabbits.

VEG:
Alongside the road near Lower Daggons is an old hedge of {\it Crataegus monogyna} with some {\it P. aquilinum, Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium, Lonicera periclymenum}. The footpath onto the common (opposite small road junction) leads into an area of {\it Salix} scrub and a few {\it Q. robur} trees. The area is generally a marsh with small stream and scrub species that include {\it Salix cinerea, Betula} sp. {\it Ulex europaeus}. 

The marshy area supports {\it Typha latifolia, Equistetum} sp. {\it Juncus acutiflorus, Galium palustre, Eupatoria cannabinum, Scutellaria minor, Potentilla erecta, Juncus bufonius, Mentha aquatica, Ranunculus flammula, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Lotus corniculatus, Oenanthe crocata}. The area has been partly 'de-scrubbed' - old bonfire site. 

Semi-improved fields further NW support {\it Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Ranunculus} spp. {\it Potentilla erecta, Achillea millefolium, Lotus} sp. {\it Prunella vulgaris, Hypochoeris radicata, Stellaria graminea, Plantago lanceolata} with rush-rich wetter areas. The western of two fields have rough grassland for cattle.

North of the fields lies scrub and areas of substantial {\it P. aquilinum} in which there a few buildings.

The area adjacent to Turtle Copse has some horse-grazed acidic grassland of {\it Hypochoeris radicata, Prunella vulgaris, Senecio jacobaea, Centaurea nigra, Potentilla erecta, Agrostis} sp. {\it Centaurium erythraea, Bellis perennis, Lotus} sp. {\it Planatago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens, Poa annua} and extensive {\it P. aquilinum}. Previous records refer to parts of this area as damp grassland with mire including {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex echinata, Carex panicea, Carex nigra, Carex demissa, Cirsium dissectum, Scirpus setaceus, Molinia caerulea, Achillea ptarmica, Pedicularis sylvatica, Calluna vulgaris}. Mire areas then included {\it Molinia caerulea, Anagallis tenella, Carex echinata, Erica tetralix, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Narthecium ossifragum, Eriophorum angustifolium}. This has scrubbed over considerably. 

Access to the northern half of the common was limited. The area includes grazed fields and scrub. A previous survey denotes a central area of dry grassland {\it Agrostis capillaris} ({\it P. aquilinum} invaded) with downslope {\it Molinia caerulea - Agrostis canina} damp grassland. This also supports {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Carex panicea, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Succisa pratensis, Juncus articulatus, Potentilla erecta, Dactylorhiza maculatum, Carex nigra, Scutellaria minor, Danthonia decumbens}. A pond on the southern edge has {\it Glyceria fluitans, Polygonum hydropiper, Bidens tripartita}. Scrub around the edges of this part of the common is {\it Corylus avellana} dominated, with species such as {\it Epipactis purpurata, Oxalis acetosella, Geum rivale, Poa trivialis} recorded.

MANAGE:
Some evident removal of scrub in southern area. 
Protection of any remaining mire in the southern section urgent.


VEG:
Amenity grassland with some planted trees. Very little evident wildlife interest.

MANAGE:
All mown grassland except bit across railway.


FAUNA:
Recorded: Linnets.  Seen during survey: Blackbird, Magpie, Crows, Yellowhammer. Butterflies: Marbled White, Meadow Brown.

VEG:
Rough grassland with rank grasses {\it Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata}. Other species include {\it Trifolium repens, Plantago major, Tripleurospermum maritimum, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Euphorbia} sp. {\it Taxacorum} sp. {\it Polygonum persicaria, Achillea millefolium, Malva sylvestris, Knautia arvensis, Galium verum, Galium palustre, Verbascum nigrum, Phleum pratense, Odontites verna}.

A few isolated {\it Quercus robur}. Common surrounded by {\it C. monogyna} hedge.


FAUNA:
Recorded: Linnets. 

Butterflies recorded: Marbled White, Gatekeeper, Large Skipper, Small tortoiseshell, Small White, Meadow Brown.

VEG:
The grassland support much {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca rubra, Dactylis glomerata, Heracleum sphondylium, Centaurea nigra, Achillea millefolium, Allium vineale, Rumex acetosella, Ranunculus repens, Trifolium repens, Lolium perenne, Sonchus asper, Plantago major, Plantago lanceolata, Prunella vulgaris, Bellis perennis, Hypericum pulchrum}. More acidic areas support {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Hypochoeris radicata, Campanula rotundifolia}.

SE corner supports {\it Juncus conglomeratus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Stachys officinalis, Silaum silaus, Campanula rotundifolia, Galium verum}.

Scrub {\it Crataegus monogyna/ Populus tremula, Ulmus procera, Betula pendula, Quercus robur} at some points on edge of common. Also stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

MANAGE:
About half of the main area was mown (1997). Record of {\it Ulex/Rubus} being flailed.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Green Woodpecker, Magpie, Crow, Chiffchaff, Swans, Coot.

23 species of Dragonfly ({\it Cordulia aenea, Erythromma najas, Orthetrum coerulescens, Anax imperator, Ceriagrion tenellum}. Orthoptera recorded include {\it Metrioptera brachyptera, Myrmeleotettix maculatus}. 

Butterflies {\it {\it Hipparchia semele, Quercusia quercus, Apatura iris, Plebejus argus}.

VEG:
The northern area of this common is {\it Quercus robur, Betula} sp. woodland with areas opposite Chestnut Farm of acid grassland ({\it Rumex acetosella, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile} which is invaded by {\it P. aquilinum} and some {\it Q. robur/Betula} sp. scrub. Trees and scrub were cut back under power lines in this northern area. Nearer the road scrub {\it Ulex europaeus, Cytisus scoparium, Rubus fruticosus} is found.

East of Shortheath Common lies a mosaic of dry and wet heath. The drier areas support {\it Calluna vulgaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Cladonia} sp. and hummocks of bryophytes. Wet heath areas have {\it Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Sphagna} spp.

Shortheath Pond contains {\it Nuphar lutea, Nymphea alba, Equisetum fluviatile, Iris pseudocorus, Carex rostrata, Hypericum elodes}. Emergent vegetation includes {\it Lotus uliginosus, Lycopus europaeus, Scutellaria galericulata, Bidens cernua, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Mentha aquatica}.

SW of Shortheath common is a substantial valley mire which is' of outstanding biological interest' (SSSI Citation). Much of the surface supports {\it Sphagna} -the following are recorded: {\it Sphagnum papillosum, S. palustre, S. recurvum var. mucronatum, S. recurvum var. amblyphyllum}. Higher plants evident include {\it Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris, Typha latifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccus, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Drosera rotundifolia, Agrostis canina, Potentilla palustris, Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus}.  Much scrub {\it Salix cinerea, Betula} sp. is invading the mire. 

Bryophytes recorded from this common include {\it Aulocomnium palustre, Brachythecium albicans, Calliergon giganteum, Campylopus introflexus, Ceratodon purpureus, Dicranum scoparium, Drepanocladus exannulatus var. fluitans, Hypnum cupressiforme, Hypnum imponens, Mnium hornum, Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum commune, Polytrichum juniperinum, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Sphagnum capillifolium, S. cuspidatum, S. imbricatum}.

MANAGE:
Scrub clearance needed in some areas, especially in mire area. Water levels controlled and monitored. Pond managed for fishing. Scrub control under power lines.


VEG:
All amenity grassland/cricket pitch (limed) with fringe of verge grasses and occasional {\it Ulex europaeus/Rubus fruticosus}.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey:  Collared Dove, Moorhen.

VEG:
The western section of this common has tall grasses and species such as {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Epilobium hirstutum, Juncus inflexus, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Centaurea nigra, Trifolium repens, Convolvulus arvensis, Vicia cracca, Aegopodium podograria}. 

The pond has excessive {\it Typha latifolia} and some {\it Lycopus europaeus, Dipsacus fullonum, Glyceria fluitans, Oenothera biennis}. The woodland on the northern side of the common supports much {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with {\it Quercus cerris}. The tree species on the eastern end of the common are more varied with {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Salix x chrysocoma, Prunus} sp.

MANAGE:
No evident management at present. {\it Typha latifolia} taking over the pond.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Crows, Thrush, Green woodpecker.

VEG:
Most of this common is {\it Quercus robur} woodland with understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Crataegus monogyna} and some {\it Rhododendron ponticum} with ground flora species of {\it Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus, Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix, Teucrium scorodonia, Glechoma hederacea, Geranium robertianum}. Under power lines the wood and scrub has been cut back, but {\it Betula pendula} is regenerating fast with substantial {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus}.  A few {\it Taxus baccata} trees and some patches of {\it Polypodium vulgare} are found by the path along the northern edge of the common.

MANAGE:
Much use by walkers, mountain bikers in 'dells' at the centre of the common. Treatment of bracken under power lines would enhance ground flora diversity.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Lapwing, Robin, Thrush, Great Tit.
From noticeboard: Stonechat, Linnets, Oystercatchers, Turnstones, Ringed Plovers, Redshank, Heron, Nuthatch, Blackcap, Sparrowhawk, Moorhens, Mallards.

VEG:
This common has substantial coastal heath that is invaded by scrub. The eastern edges have salt marsh and there are small areas of grassland.

The car park on the northern edge is by woodland that supports {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Aesculus hippocastanum, Populus} sp. and there is some {\it Fallopia japonica} getting a hold in this area. Pockets of tall ruderal species such as {\it Artemesia vulgaris, Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus, Chamerion angustifolium, Cirsium} sp. are also found in this area. The northeasternmost arm of the common has {\it Quercus} sp. woodland with {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Scirpus maritimus}. The salt marsh areas support {\it Sueda maritima, Halimione porticuloides, Limonium vulgare, Salicornia} sp. A fringe of {\it Juncus} ssp. along some of the lengths of salt marsh leads to scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus, Salix} ssp. {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} that occupies quite a large proportion of the site. Some areas are almost pure {\it Betula} scrub, others are mostly {\it Ulex europaeus}.

A large fairly triangular area south of the 'Earthwork' has wet heath that includes {\it Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Potentilla erecta, Agrostis curtisii, Agrostis canina, Pteridium aquilinum} and some patches of pure {\it Juncus}.
The coast-facing part of the western corner of the common has substantial {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Inland from this is a pocket of acidic grassland that is rabbit-grazed with advancing {\it P. aquilinum}. The western edge of the common has {\it Quercus robur} woodland with some {\it Betula} sp. There is restricted ground flora, due to shading, but substantial {\it Hedera helix}. A small pond near the western end of the Earthwork is overshaded and supports {\it Glyceria fluitans, Lemna minor} and not much else at time of survey. The north western corner of the common border on to the Hamble Copse - an area of wood that was planted with some exotics in Victorian times. 

A pond near the car park has much {\it Typha latifolia, Sparganium erectum} and some {\it Plantago alisma-aquatica, Mentha aquatica, Nuphar lutea, Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum}. 

Other species recorded from the site: {\it Serratula tinctoria, Senecio sylvaticus, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Plantago coronopus, Galium uliginosum, Juncus bufonius, Juncus bulbosus, Cirsium dissectum, Hydrocotyle vulgaris}.

MANAGE:
The area is managed by The Countryside service of the Eastleigh Borough Council and English Nature.
Active management is centred around scrub clearance and the enhanced survival of rare coastal heath.


VEG:
Most of Westfield Common is {\it Quercus robur} woodland with an understorey of {\it Ulmus procera, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Salix} sp. In places the understorey is quite thick with consequent decrease in ground flora. Nearer the shore the woodland is more scrubby with stands of {\it Pteridium  aquilinum, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus}. Some {\it Ulex europaeus} bushes have been recently burnt by accident or design. Small pockets of grassland support {\it Daucus carota, Hypochoeris radicata, Senecio jacobea, Holcus lanatus}. The woodland is more open at the North End with much {\it Ulex} scrub.


VEG:
The grassland behind the shingle line supports {\it Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Hordelium} sp. {\it Holcus lanatus, Pteridium aquilinum, Teucrium scorodonia, Daucus carota, Crambe maritima, Convolvulus arvensis, Tripleurospermum maritimum, Ruscus aculaetus, Hedera helix}. The shingle supports little plant growth but some {\it Chenopodium polyspermum} and {\it C. rubrum} with {\it patches of Halimione portulacoides, Daucus carota, Cirsium vulgare, Sonchus asper, Silene maritima, Echium vulgare, Trifolium repens, Dipsacus fullonum}. A small reed area is found with {\it Phragmites australis} and small areas of scrub {\it Salix}.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Wood pigeon, Heron, Grey Wagtail, Mallard.

Yellow dragonflies, Small Tortoiseshell.

VEG:
This common was surveyed only from the bridge on the A31.

Near the bridge are areas of {\it Salix, Acer pseudoplatanus, Aesculus hippocastanum} scrub/wood on the Ringwood side of the river. Banks of the river support solid {\it Urtica dioica} at some points, {\it Salix} scrub and/or {\it Quercus robur} trees, and semi-improved rough grassland at others.

The rough grassland includes {\it Lolium perenne, Cirsium} sp. {\it Ranunculus acris, Alliaria petiolata, Pulicaria dysenterica, Polygonum persicaria}.  

River banks Include species such as {\it Phragmites australis, Mentha} sp. {\it Glyceria maxima, Urtica dioica, Hercleum sphondylium, Rorippa nasturtium-aquatica, Typha latifolia, Ranunculus aquatilis, Myosotis} sp.

MANAGE:
Grassland managed for grazing (Cattle, deer).


FAUNA:
SSSI citation : '.... a comprehensive range of chalk downland butterflies, beetles, bees and allied insects. Crickets {\it Conocephalus discolor, Tettigonia viridissima}.

Birds seen during survey: Yellowhammer, Wren.
Butterflies seen during survey: Peacock, Meadow Brown, Small tortoiseshell.

VEG:
The edge of the common has substantial scrub of {\it Prunus spinosa, Ligustrum vulgare, Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Clematis vitalba}. Scrub {\it Ulex europaeus} is also found on the SE side of the northern half of the common and in a mosaic with grassland on the southern half of the common.

The calcareous grassland includes substantial {\it Bromus erectus} and {\it Trisetum flavescens, Centaurea nigra, Galium} spp. {\it Trifolium pratense, Leontodon hispidus, Agrimonia eupatoria, Ononis repens, Briza media, Carex flacca, Anthyllis vulneraria, Lotus corniculatus, Scabiosa colombaria, Thymus druceii, Achillea millefolium, Acinos arvensis, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Odontites verna, Daucus carota, Blackstonia perfoliata, Silene vulgaris, Senecio erucifolius, Linum catharticum, Onobrychis viciifolia, Arabis hirsuta, Euphrasia} agg. {\it Festuca rubra, Linum bienne}. Some areas have coarse grasses and ruderals e.g {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Melilotis officinalis, Pastinacea sativa, Reseda lutea, Reseda luteola, Thesium humifusum, Asperula cynanchica}.

A previous survey found the road cutting of interest as it supports {\it Anthyllis vulneraria, Linum bienne, Hieracium} spp. and {\it Orobanche picridis}.

The mosaic of scrub on the S side of the motorway includes {\it C. monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Cornus sanguinea, Sambucus nigra, Acer pseudoplatanus}. The latter form a stand of woodland at the eastern end. Grassland on this side is disturbed and of less botanical interest than the northern side. The western side supports scrub and {\it Daucus carota, Centranthus ruber, Picris echioides, Solanum dulcamara, Verbascum thapsus, Reseda} spp. and more central parts include {\it Briza media, Blackstonia perfoliata, Asperula cynanchica}.

MANAGE:
Scrub needs to be curbed at regular intervals. Fires occurred regularly in the past. A good site for management to encourage butterflies.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey:  Song Thrush, Crows, Dunnock, Great Tit, Magpie.

Nature Reserve:  32 species of butterflies

Moles

VEG:
Large fields which make up the main part of this common are poor semi-improved grassland with {\it Lolium perenne, Taxacorum} sp. {\it Plantago lanceolata, Rumex acetosa}. A wide track (Whiteshute Lane) passes through the common with substantial {\it C. monogyna} hedges and verge grasses and species such as {\it Potentilla anserina, Veronica} sp. {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Glechoma hederacea, Achillea millefolium, Stellaria holostea, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus, Cirsium} sp. {\it Dactylis glomerata}.  A playing field of amenity grassland and some exotic planted trees lies south of the caravan site.

A small area of scrub {\it Crataegus monogyna} is found on the south edge of the common and north of 'Texas'.

A small area of common is found at Yew Hill adjacent to a reservoir and a nature reserve. This includes scrub {\it C. monogyna, Corylus avellana} with a few {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Taxus baccata}.

MANAGE:
Fields used as rough grazing. Fenced part of nature reserve section is grazed.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Chaffinches, Wood pigeon, Great Tits.

VEG:
A large common of semi-improved grasslands. The sward contains {\it Lolium perenne, Bellis perennis, Trifolium campestre, Trifolium repens, Taraxacorum} agg. {\it Trifolium pratense, Agrostis} spp. {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Cerastium fontanum, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium arvense, Senecio jacobaea, Dactylis glomerata, Ranunculus repens}. Old boundaries on the higher land have lines of old hedges that have become small trees. These are mostly of {\it Crataegus monogyna} with some recently planted {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Under or near the trees are clumps of {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and areas of {\it Mercurialis perennis, Arum maculatum, Aegopodium podograria, Lamium album}. The common is surrounded on most sides by scrub and trees, often of old hedges of {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
This common is managed for some grazing and recreation.At the time of survey there were some walkers (some flying kites) and cyclists evident. Wildflower areas could be designated and managed accordingly. Ponds would also enhance the wildlife interest.


FAUNA:
Wood pigeon.  Deer. Hoverflies. Meadow Brown, Common Blue butterflies.

VEG:
Hurstbourne Common is in 2 Common Land units. CL 327 makes up the western and southern sides of the whole unit. The western side has scrub {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana} intermixed with neutral to calcareous grassland which has species such as {\it Hypericum perforatum, Linaria vulgaris, Solanum dulcamara, Odontites verna, Centaurium erythraea, Prunella vulgaris, Agrimonia eupatoria, Malva sylvestris, Trifolium campestre, Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Pastinaca sativa}. The southern side of CL327 is woodland of {\it Quercus robur}.


FAUNA:
Seen during survey: Blackbird, Wren, Green Woodpecker, Wood Pigeon.

VEG:
The northern area of this common is wooded with {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior} with understorey trees such as {\it Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp. and ground flora species that include {\it Lathyrus pratensis, Stachys sylvatica, Epilobium palustre, Rubus fruticosus}. Wetter areas support {\it Ranunculus flammula, Polygonum persicaria, Lycopus europaeus, Carex pendula, Geum urbanum, Anagallis tenella, Circaea lutetiana, Arctium minus}.

The southern area, roughly square in shape, is edged with scrub {\it Salix cinerea, Prunus spinosa} with some isolated {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. The central part of this section has MG1 {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} grassland. Species present include {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Pulicaria dysenterica, Centaurea nigra, Agrimonia eupatoria, Silaum silaus, Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica, Potentilla anserina, Carex hirta, Plantago lanceolata, Lathyrus aphaca, Knautia arvensis, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium palustre, Anthriscus sylvestris, Plantago major, Odontites verna}.

MANAGE:
No active management. Scrub encroachment of meadow needs attention.


FAUNA:
Recorded: Nightjar, Hobby, Woodlark, Dartford Warbler, Stonechat.

Seen during survey: Moorhen, Canada Geese, Green woodpecker, Wood pigeon.
Rabbits, Grey Squirrel.

Odonata: Silver-studded blue, Emperor Moth, Grayling.

Odonata recorded from Blackbush Airport (1987/1988): Small Skipper, Essex Skipper, Dingy Skipper, Large White, Small White, Orange Tip, Small Copper, Silver-studded Blue, Common Blue, Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Comma, Speckled Wood, Grayling, Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Small Heath.

Reptiles: Grass Snake, Common Lizard, Smooth Snake.

From SSSI citation:
The site supports at least 19 species of dragonfly and damselfly out of a total of 37 resident species in Britain........Heathland invertebrates include the nationally rare bee {\it Hyaeus gibbus} and a number of nationally scarce species including two cockroaches {\it Ectobius lapponicus, E. panzeri} and the silver-studded blue butterfly {\it Plebejus argus}. The nationally rare conopid fly {\it Myopa fasciata} is recorded from the scrub/heath interface.

VEG:
Report begins with quote from SSSI citation:

Castle Bottom to Yateley Common comprises the largest remnant of heathland habitat and the largest valleybog/heathland complex in the NE Hants section of the Thames Basin. The scrub/heath interface supports a particularly rich invertebrate fauna including a number of nationally scarce species.  The mosaic of scrub and heathland provides habitat for 3 species of bird listed in Annex 1 of the EC Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds. Most of the site is on gently undulating plateau gravels.....

The dry heathland areas are dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea, Ulex minor} grading locally to humid heath dominated by heather {\it C. vulgaris, E. cinerea, Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea} or acid grassland with dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. {\it Ulex europaeus, Betula pendula, Pinus sylvestris} scrub forms part of the mosaic. Small areas of grass heath are dominated by {\it Agrostis curtisii}, here near the eastern limit of its distribution. The nationally scarce {\it Moenchia erecta} is found together with the largest Hampshire colony of the locally uncommon {\it Botrychium lunaria}.

Notes from brief survey:

Wyndham's Pool is used for fishing and supports species such as {\it Nymphea alba, Nuphar lutea, Typha latifolia, Mentha aquatica, Salix} sp. The Pool is edged to the west by amenity grassland with some scrub and a car park is found nearby. The northern and western sides have  woodland with {\it Betula} sp. dominant to the north with {\it Quercus robur, Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia, Castanea sativa} and {\it Pinus sylvestris} to the east.

Between the Pool and Heathlands Cemetery lies scrub-invaded heath with {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Erica cinerea} in a matrix with acid grassland species. There are some large {\it Pinus} here. North-west of Heathlands Cemetery is {\it Quercus robur} dominated woodland is found. 

The 'Country Park' area that covers most of the land east of Cricket Hill Lane is scrub-invaded heath. {\it Ulex europaeus} has been cutback and burnt in some areas. Near the A30 much of the area has {\it Betula/Quercus} scrub/wood.

West of Cricket Hill Lane lies scrub woodland of {\it Betula, Quercus, Pinus sylvestris} with substantial {\it Ulex europaeus, Cytisus scoparius}.

West of Vigo Lane but east of the Blackbushe Airport lies acid grassland/dry heath though this grades to {\it Quercus, Betula, Pinus} woodland by the A30.

The Blackbushe Airport area has widespread heath and acid grassland. The heath has been described as predominately {\it Erica cinerea/Ulex minor} heath with {\it Festuca ovina}. South of Little Vigo is a community of {\it Ulex minor/ Agrostis curtisii} with {\it C. vulgaris, Ulex minor, Erica cinerea, Agrostis curtisii, Molinia caerulea}. Humid heath is also found where seasonal waterlogging occurs. This includes {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Sphagnum compactum}.

MANAGE:
The Country Park area of the Common is managed for a balance of wildlife and amenity with scrub encroachment as a major issue. The mixed woodlands South of the A30 are relatively unmanaged with consequent declining heath habitat.
The heaths around Blackbushe Airport are of great value and their preservation has attracted  active interest in recent years.

A Management Plan is in production for October 1998.


FAUNA:
Mole, rabbit, common and pygmy shrews, tawny owl, green woodpecker, skylark, raven, carrion crow, jackdaw, magpie, great tit, ring ouzel, blackbird, wheatear, redstart, robin, willow warbler, pied flycatcher, hedge sparrow, meadow pipit, rock pipit, pied wagtail, chaffinch and buzzard were recorded around the Hereford and Worcester Black Mountains picnic sites of Black Hill and Red Daren (the latter lying to the south of the common) in May 1983 (HWCC records). The unimproved pastures and scattered scrub communities in the Upper Olchon valley are of importance in providing some of the best habitat for species such as redstart and grey wagtail in this part of the country. The SSSI in general is notable for characteristic upland species such as raven, peregrine, merlin and red grouse which are present near the southerly limits of their range in Britain. Skylark is listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Ringlet has been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society between 1990 and 1997.

VEG:
CL44 is situated on the edge of the Black Mountains massif on the Herefordshire/Powys border, lying outside the Brecon Beacons National Park and rising to 703m close to the border. The Black Mountains represent the most south-easterly area of upland habitat in southern Britain. They are formed of Old Red Sandstone which outcrops extensively as a series of crags and boulders. Sandstones with occasional bands of calcareous Cornstone also outcrop on the Black Mountains. The soils derived from Old Red Sandstone are acidic sandy loams which are well drained and relatively thin on the Black Mountains due to the topography. 

CL44 is situated at the head of the Olchon valley comprising part of the east-facing slope of the ridge lying between the Vale of Ewyas and the Olchon valley and a short spur running south-eastwards between the Olchon valley and the Monnow valley (Black Hill). The common was surveyed by the Wales Field Unit Project (NCC) Upland Vegetation Survey (Mynydd Du (Eastern) area) in 1981 forming the basis of this report. It was thought that the common had been revisited during the 1993 survey of the bordering Welsh commons, however Black Hill was unfortunately omitted. 

On the summit of Black Hill, {\it Calluna vulgaris} dry dwarf shrub heath on shallow peat is present with 5 percent cover of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and scattered {\it Eriophorum vaginatum, Trichophorum cespitosum, Empetrum nigrum, Erica tetralix} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Around the Trig. point there are a few permanent pools (about 5m in diameter) and some patches of bare peat.  

The north-east facing slope of Black Hill carries {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with species-poor {\it Festuca-Agrostis} grassland on the lower part and areas dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus/Nardus stricta} or {\it Vaccinium myrtillus/Festuca-Agrostis} grassland on the upper part of the slope. Where the slope is very steep towards the top, pure {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is present. Small rocky outcrops occur towards the top of the slope where {\it Cystopteris fragilis} and {\it Asplenium trichomanes} were recorded in places. Species-rich {\it Carex}-brown mosses flushes are present along the steamlines running down the hillside. These contain {\it Cratoneuron commutatum, Fissidens adianthoides, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium} and other basiphilous species. 

On the south-west facing slope horizontal bands of {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} heath with some {\it Festuca-Agrostis} grassland are present. Some {\it Ulex gallii} scrub is present at the south-eastern end of the hill. Towards the top of the slope, {\it Carex}-brown mosses flushes are present. Lower down {\it Juncus inflexus} is present in flushes. 

Some species-rich limestone grassland occurs on Black Hill. It is most abundant near the south-eastern end of the ridge near the top on both sides but also extends as a narrow band north-west towards the Olchon Dingle on the south-western face of the ridge. Occasional small patches are present on the eastern side of the ridge. Species such as {\it Carlina vulgaris, Thymus polytrichus} and {\it Linum catharticum} are typical. Over 30 species were recorded in one 4 metre square quadrat. 

Where the Black Hill spur joins the main ridge the {\it Calluna} heath forms a mosaic with {\it Nardus stricta} grassland and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} heath with a few small patches of {\it Calluna}-{\it Eriophorum} mire. The peat is relatively shallow here (10-25cm over 5-10cm mineral soil). A few small plants of {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} were found at SO263356 in an area of {\it Calluna} heath on shallow peat, grading into {\it Calluna-Eriophorum} mire and with abundant {\it Nardus stricta}.

The east facing slope of the main ridge supports an extensive area of {\it Calluna-Eriophorum} mire on shallow peat grading into {\it Calluna} dominated dwarf shrub heath. {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is generally of low frequency but locally dominant in one or two places. {\it Empetrum nigrum} is scattered and {\it Sphagnum} hollows are rare. At the highest point, the {\it Calluna-Eriophorum} mire grades into {\it Molinia-Calluna} mire. {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} is present in this community and a little {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} occurs. A few small pools and areas of eroded peat are present along the summit on either side of Offa's Dyke path.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by sheep and ponies at the time of the Wales field unit survey. Little evidence of management of {\it Calluna} by burning or mowing was recorded and towards the south-eastern end of Black Hill, 50 percent of the heather was recorded as moribund. {\it Cystopteris fragilis} and {\it Asplenium trichomanes} only survive on rock outcrops on Black Hill in places inaccessible to sheep.


FAUNA:
Wood pigeon, magpie, buzzard, blackbird, kestrel, sparrowhawk and the butterflies wall brown, gatekeeper and small heath were recorded during the site visit. There were some old anthills on the common. The additional butterflies small, large and green-veined whites, small copper, common blue, holly blue, peacock, comma, speckled wood and meadow brown have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Garway Hill common is situated on a hill top above the Monnow valley close to the Welsh border. It is largely covered with continuous bracken (thinner on the south-east facing slopes) with some scattered scrub, particularly on the lower slopes, of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and locally {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. Amongst the bracken and along the tracks are patches of semi-improved and unimproved acid grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca} spp. with occasional {\it Lolium perenne, Prunella vulgaris, Campanula rotundifolia, Potentilla erecta, Rumex acetosella, Holcus lanatus, Danthonia decumbens, Oxalis acetosella, Luzula} sp., locally frequent {\it Pilosella officinalis, Aira praecox} and {\it Carex panicea} and locally occasional {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. Scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occurs in places. {\it Colchicum autumnale} was recorded at SO434251 and there is occasional {\it Ulex gallii}. Bryophytes recorded were {\it Calliergon cuspidatum, Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Dicranum} sp. The areas of unimproved acid grassland are dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} locally with {\it Cladonia} sp. lichens. 

There is a small area of marshy grassland along a springline at SO438254 with some {\it Sphagnum} sp. and other bryophytes, {\it Ranunculus flammula}, locally abundant {\it Carex panicea} and other sedges, {\it Mentha aquatica, Bellis perennis, Veronica beccabunga, Festuca ovina, Prunella vulgaris, Viola} sp. and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

At the extreme southern end is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra, Lotus corniculatus, Leontodon autumnalis, Luzula campestris, Plantago lanceolata, Digitalis purpurea, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Trifolium repens} with some scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and locally {\it Urtica dioica}. 

There is a shallow pond at SO43902505 with some {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Ranunculus aquatilis}.

MANAGE:
Sheep and ponies were grazing the common at the time of the site visit. The pockets of grassland were generally quite heavily grazed. Bracken is a serious problem on the common and locally this has been controlled by cutting. There are many paths and tracks mown through the bracken. There is some scrub encroachment on the common. There is an octagonal brick structure on top of the hill with benches around. According to a parish councillor there has been some trouble with a local activity centre taking four-wheeled drive vehicles up on the common.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, rabbit, blackbird and the butterflies gatekeeper and meadow brown were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Lower Maescoed common consists of lower, middle and upper commons and a series of interconnecting roads and tracks between the Dulas and Escley Brook valleys. 

Lower common supports improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense}, occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} and locally {\it Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia}. Locally the grassland is marshy with frequent {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus} and {\it J. articulatus}. {\it Polygonum hydropiper} and {\it P. persicaria} are frequent along the ditch bordering the western edge.

Middle common (and a few other areas on the common) support a semi-improved neutral grassland comprising {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Leontodon autumnalis, Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Festuca rubra, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Cerastium fontanum}. Middle common is locally marshy with {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus effusus, J. articulatus, Lotus pedunculatus, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. There is also locally frequent to abundant {\it Pimpinella saxifraga} with {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia}. 

Upper common is largely covered with continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}. Along the roadside are areas of semi-improved neutral grassland and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. {\it P. aquilinum} is also locally frequent elsewhere on the common.

Hedgerows border many of the tracks supporting {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium, Fraxinus excelsior, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. The hedgerows may be quite old and may fall within the classification of ancient hedgerows in the UK Biodiversity Action plan. Some of the tracks interlinking these common are no longer used and are overgrown with scrub of similar composition to the hedgerows with some {\it Populus tremula} and {\it Prunus avium} at the opposite end of the track running north-eastwards from 'The Piggeries'. Other species recorded along the hedgerows include {\it Clinopodium vulgare, Campanula rotundifolia, Stachys officinalis, Lathyrus pratensis, Pteridium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum, Tamus communis, Lotus corniculatus, Verbascum nigrum} and to the south of 'Rose Cottage' there is a small area with {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Lemna} sp. In places (particularly the eastern end of the common) hedgerows have presumably been removed, the narrow strips of common now forming parts of larger fields. 

There are also a few areas of continuous scrub on the common. At the northern end of the common adjacent to the road the scrub comprises {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Ulmus glabra} with {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Populus tremula} near the stream. There is a groundflora here of {\it Hypericum perforatum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Circaea lutetiana, Urtica dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Viola} sp. and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}.

The eastern end of the common drops away to the south into a small wooded valley. The canopy comprises {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with an understorey of {\it Hedera helix, Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.  The groundflora has been eroded by cattle except for some {\it Urtica dioica}.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by sheep and had also been grazed by cattle. Grazing levels were generally low. The roadside verges are mown. Most of the hedges are managed and intact. A number of tracks are no longer used and have become overgrown with scrub. Elsewhere, some of the track hedges have probably been removed to extend fields. As already mentioned the hedgerows may be quite old and may fall within the ancient hedgerows key habitat in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Bracken and scrub encroachment is a problem on Upper Common and there are smaller stands of bracken elsewhere on the common which could spread. Lower common appears to have been improved and there was a large heap of garden refuse there. A caravan and trailer were parked on the common near Rose Cottage.


FAUNA:
Goldfinch and common blue and gatekeeper butterflies were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Lower House common is one of a group of six commons at Upper Maes-coed (see also CL95, the remaining four are below the 1ha threshold for this project). It slopes gently to the east dropping into a stream valley on the northern side south of Lower House Farm. Much of the common had been cut at the time of the site visit but there was sufficient regrowth over much of the common for some survey work. 

The grassland is a semi-improved neutral type, tending towards acid, with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis}, locally frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and occasional {\it Lotus corniculatus, Pimpinella saxifraga, Campanula rotundifolia, Galium verum, Hypochaeris radicata, Cerastium fontanum, Rumex acetosa, Urtica dioica, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Prunella vulgaris, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Linum catharticum}. {\it Viola} sp., {\it Ranunculus repens, Cirsium arvense, C. palustre, Juncus articulatus} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occurred locally and {\it Thymus polytrichus} was also recorded. A few plants of {\it Colchicum autumnale} were recorded along the roadside. {\it C. autumnale} was also recorded from the extreme western block of the common and along the northern edge of the central block by HNT (c. 1989). At the far western end of the common is a small area of coarse semi-improved grassland with {\it Dactylis glomerata, Rumex obtusifolius, Holcus lanatus, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

In 1989 the extreme western block of the common was described by the Hereford Nature Trust as being the most interesting part supporting, in addition to the above, {\it Galium saxatile, Conopodium majus, Pedicularis sylvatica, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Lotus pedunculatus, Luzula campestris} and some {\it Ulex europaeus}. Additional species recorded from the remainder of the common were {\it Silaum silaus?} and {\it Cardamine pratensis}.

The common is bordered by intact species-poor hedgerows of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with locally occasional {\it Betula pendula, Salix capraea} and {\it Quercus} sp., and is open to the road. A defunct hedgeline crosses the eastern end of the common.

MANAGE:
The area along the road had been cut for hay although there are no registered rights to a hay crop. The area beyond the defunct hedge south of Lower House Farm had been grazed. The western part of the common was enclosed by a temporary fence along the eastern side of the track (probably to permit grazing). The area of coarse grassland lies outside the fenced area and is presumably ungrazed. There are sheep warning signs on the road. In 1989 the eastern two thirds of the common were apparently more heavily grazed than the western block (HNT). The scattered bracken on the common is locallised and probably does not pose a threat under the current mangement regime. The grassland is fairly diverse, tending towards acid grassland, and preferably should not be further improved. There is a small area of hardstanding on the common opposite Pear Tree Cottage which is used for parking and a manure heap on the western end of the common west of the track.


FAUNA:
Woodpigeon, blackbird, molehills and the butterflies meadow brown, gatekeeper and common blue were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Canon Tump common is one of a group of six commons at Upper Maes-coed (see also CL91, the remaining four are below the 1ha threshold for this project). It is a small, level area of common land. 

The central area of the common supports a species-rich, semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Odontites vernus, Centaurea nigra, Lathyrus pratensis, Ranunculus repens, Phleum pratense, Cirsium arvense, Dactylis glomerata, Vicia cracca, Achillea millefolium, Juncus articulatus, Agrostis stolonifera, Stachys officinale} and {\it Trifolium dubium}. {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Ranunculus flammula, Rhinanthus minor, Artemisia vulgaris, Urtica dioica} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius} were recorded locally. There are patches of scrub within the grassland of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulex gallii?, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and a few {\it Populus tremula}. 

Scrub is encroaching on the grassland from the northwest and southeast. That to the northwest is dominated by {\it Salix cinerea} with a sparse groundflora of {\it Geum urbanum, Urtica dioica, Epipactis helleborine} and {\it Rumex sanguineus}. To the southeast there is also {\it Prunus avium, Betula pubescens, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Corylus avellana} amongst the {\it Salix cinerea} with a little {\it Pteridium aquilinum} beneath. 

A total of 122 species were recorded from the common in 1989 by HNT including the woodland species {\it Quercus petraea, Q. robur, Sorbus aucuparia, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Allium ursinum, Arum maculatum, Circaea lutetiana, Fragaria vesca, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Oxalis acetosella, Potentilla sterilis, Sanicula europaea, Scrophularia nodosa, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Veronica montana} and the grassland species {\it Cardamine pratensis, Cerastium glomeratum, Conopodium majus, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Filipendula ulmaria, Lotus pedunculatus, Luzula campestris, Lythrum salicaria, Mentha arvensis, Potentilla erecta, Primula veris, Stellaria alsine} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}.

MANAGE:
The common is fenced from the road. There had been some cattle grazing the common but only very lightly and the grassland was a little rank. The grassland may be unimproved having lost some diversity due to innappropriate management in the past and may improve now the common is managed as a nature reserve by HNT. The cattle had been in amongst the scrub where the ground was locally quite poached. There is a 13 year coppice rotation for the scrub on the common which may allow the area of grassland to expand but also maintain the scrub habitat which supports a number of woodland plants and is probably an important habitat for birds. Further encroachment of the scrub into the grassland should be avoided. The pond on the common was dry at the time of the site visit.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, rabbit and common blue butterfly were recorded during the site visit. A raven was seen overhead. Evidence of badger, fox, vole, deer, mice, stoat, blackbird, owl, magpie, robin, frogs, willow warbler and mole were recorded in the area of scrub at the south-western end of the common by local school children during the Garway ponds project initiated by South Herefordshire Countryside Action Partnership (1997). There was also a disused badger set and a rabbit warren. The butterflies small, large and green-veined whites, red admiral, small tortoiseshell, peacock, comma, gatekeeper and speckled wood have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Garway common is a generally fairly level area in the village of Garway in south Herefordshire, dropping away into the head of a small valley to the south. Most of the northern part of the common supports unimproved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris}, locally frequent {\it Pimpinella saxifraga, Festuca ovina, Galium verum} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis} amd occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Hypochaeris radicata, Campanula rotundifolia, Cerastium fontanum, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus, Potentilla erecta, Centaurea nigra, Dactylis glomerata, Ranunculus repens, Alopecurus pratensis}. {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis} occurred locally. There are a couple of similar areas on the southern part of the common locally with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

This community grades into a semi-improved to unimproved acid grassland to the south dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with occasional {\it Festuca ovina, Campanula rotundifolia, Leontodon autumnalis, Pimpinella saxifraga} and locally scattered scrub of {\it Ulex gallii, Salix capraea, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There is a particularly rich area to the east (east of the area of woodland) with occasional {\it Rumex acetosella, Calluna vulgaris, Achillea ptarmica, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Stachys officinale}. Other species recorded here were {\it Veronica officinalis, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Carex caryophyllea}. Lowland dry acid grassland is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The area to the south of the public house is semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Prunella vulgaris} and occasional {\it Bellis perennis, Galium saxatile, Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Festuca} sp. and {\it Trifolium dubium}. There is a small area of improved grassland at the north-eastern end of the common with frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and occasional {\it Rumex conglomeratus} and {\it Cirsium arvense} beneath scattered mature {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. 

There is a small area of broadleaved woodland at the centre of the common with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa arvensis} and {\it Taxus baccata} and a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica, Primula vulgaris, Dryopteris filix-mas, Lonicera periclymenum, Geranium robertianum, Viola hirta, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and locally {\it Mercurialis perennis}. There are a number of deep, old, dry ponds in this area. 

There are also a couple of areas of continuous scrub on the common comprising {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in the east and {\it Quercus robur, Salix capraea, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Corylus avellana} to the west with a groundflora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica, Galeopsis tetrahit, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta}. There are some old dry ponds in this area also. 20 types of marsh and meadow grasses, {\it Sambucus nigra, Hedera helix, Ilex aquifolium, Ulex europaeus, Hordeum murinum, Primula vulgaris, Prunus avium, Acer campestre, Mentha aquatica?, Aegopodium podagraria, Digitalis purpurea, Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Euphorbia} sp., {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Filipendula ulmaria, Cirsium arvense, C. palustre, Atropa belladonna? (Solanum?} sp.), {\it Myosotis} sp., {\it Ranunculus} sp., {\it R. ficaria, Rosa} sp., {\it Rumex} sp., {\it Arctium} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. were also recorded from this area by local school children during the Garway ponds project initiated by South Herefordshire Countryside Action Partnership (1997). 

Only two extant ponds were recorded on the common, both on the northern section. The one to the north of the woodland was much poached by cattle, covered with {\it Lemna} sp. and surrounded by {\it Salix fragilis, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The second is south of Yewtree farm.

MANAGE:
On the whole, management of the common is good. Cattle with young calves were grazing the common at the time of the site visit. At the western end of the common the area of semi-improved neutral grassland is regularly mown as a recreation area with goalpost, swings and seesaw. This area has probably been modified by the mowing from a relatively species-rich grassland as indicated by certain species persisting. There is some scrub encroachment on the common and locally scattered bracken. Scrub is encroaching on the swings and seesaw. The pond to the north of the woodland area had recently been cleared. It is used by the cattle as a source of water and very poached. There was little aquatic vegetation and unlikely to be much due to the use by cattle. The pond was also much shaded by trees. Two of the ponds in the open grassland were not located (they had been infilled?) and the remainder of the ponds dry and within the scrub or woodland which would need to be opened up if they were to be restored. Some dumping of garden refuse was noted at the south-western end of the common. 

Three ideas for the scrub area south of the public house arose from the Garway ponds project which were: no change; make a play area; and make a wildlife reserve. The results of a poll held at the Garway School open day were 42 percent, no change, 39 percent make a play area and 19 percent make a wildlife reserve. 

In a letter to a local newspaper in 1987, there is reference to the clearance of a 12m wide firebreak along the southern edge of the common where orchids and wild daffodils grew and a past problem of rough-country motor-bike riding on the common. Also mentioned is the infilling of another pond on the common and a new road to be laid across the common to service a property.


FAUNA:
Mole and wheatear were recorded during the site visit. Anthills were locally frequent. Gatekeeper, small heath, small tortoiseshell and meadow brown butterflies were recorded at the edge of the conifer plantation at the northern end of the common.

VEG:
Cefn hill is situated on the edge of the Black Mountains in east Herefordshire. The common comprises a hill top area and parts of the east and west facing slopes. The common is bordered to the north by a conifer plantation. A number of springs run off the eastern slopes. There is limited public access to the common and survey was limited.

The majority of the hill-top area appeared to support a {\it Nardus stricta} dominated grassland, locally with scattered scrub of {\it Ulex gallii}. Additional species recorded from this grassland include {\it Galium saxatile, Danthonia decumbens, Potentilla erecta, Aira praecox, Tricophorum cespitosum, Carex nigra?, C. caryophyllea?, Juncus conglomeratus, Prunella vulgaris, Leontodon saxatilis, Pilosella officinarum, Luzula} sp., the bryophytes {\it Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Sphagnum} sp. and rarely {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it Molinia caerulea} was recorded at the edge of the conifer plantation at the northern end of the common.

Towards the southern, north-eastern and western extremities, the grassland is semi-improved ranging from {\it Lolium perenne} dominated neutral grassland with {\it Agrostis capillaris, Trifolium repens, Festuca} sp. grading through semi-improved acid grassland supporting a number of the species listed for the unimproved acid grassland above. Scattered scrub of {\it Ulex gallii} is present locally. {\it Achillea ptarmica, Stellaria graminea, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Lotus corniculatus} were recorded along roadside at the north-eastern end of the common. The grassland along the western slopes of the common was a brighter green than the hill top grassland and is probably also semi-improved. 

The eastern slopes support a large stand of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} through which small streams run. There are pockets of grassland amongst the bracken, particularly along the streams (not surveyed).

MANAGE:
There is a commoners association on this common, Cefn Hill Graziers Association. The common was being grazed by sheep and a few horses at the time of the site visit. The vegetation may be derived from a heath community, a little {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} being present. The common may have been subject to heavier grazing in the past, {\it Nardus stricta} tending to be favoured by heavy grazing. Parts of the common have been improved.

The common is fenced from the road at the north-eastern end. Parts of the common at the north-eastern and southern ends have been incorporated into adjoining fields. There was some dumped rubble on the road verge at the north-eastern end of the common.


VEG:
Coldstone common is situated in the Wye valley near Kingstone adjacent to the Madley Satellite Earth Station. It supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Ranunculus repens, Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Lotus corniculatus, Festuca rubra, Trifolium pratense, Hypochaeris radicata, Galium verum} and {\it Cerastium fontanum}. {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Tragopogon pratensis} were locally abundant, {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis} locally frequent and {\it Vicia cracca} and {\it Centaurea nigra} locally occasional. 

Along the north-eastern end of the common is a strip of {\it Urtica dioica}. There was no evidence of a pond in the northern corner as indicated on the map, this area supporting tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Calystegia sepium}. 

A species-poor hedgerow borders the south-eastern edge of the common comprising {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
The common is fenced alongside the track at the western end of the common suggesting the common is grazed although there was no evidence of any grazing at the time of the site visit. A hay crop had probably been taken from the common. The coarseness of the grassland (frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata}, occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and locally abundant {\it Tragopogon pratensis}) suggests the common only receives light grazing or has been neglected in recent years. The pond has been infilled?


VEG:
Walterstone common consists of a network of paths and tracks interlinking small areas of common land, dropping away to the north into a small stream valley.

The southernmost end of the common supports an area of improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with occasional {\it Pimpinella saxifraga, Agrimonia eupatorium, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Trifolium} spp. 

A track from here leads northwards to a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Holcus lanatus}, locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Stachys officinale, Hypericum perforatum, Dactylis glomerata, Galeopsis tetrahit, Potentilla reptans, Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Viola} sp. beneath scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

Further north again is a small area of unimproved neutral grassland in the west with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub. The grassland consists of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Achillea ptarmica, Potentilla erecta, Lotus corniculatus, Achillea millefolium, Hypochaeris radicata, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Centaurea nigra, Cynosurus cristatus, Pimpinella saxifraga, Campanula rotundifolia, Festuca rubra, Plantago lanceolata, Juncus articulatus, Cirsium arvense, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Lathyrus pratensis} and locally {\it Potentilla anserina, Vicia cracca} and {\it Angelica sylvestris}.

The northern end of the common supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Calystegia sepium} and an area of broadleaved woodland of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Populus tremula} with an understorey of {\it Salix cinerea, Ulmus glabra, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and a groundflora of {\it Geranium robertianum, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Mercurialis perennis, Lapsana communis} and where the canopy is more open {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

South of the school the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Plantago lanceolata, Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne, Festuca rubra, Dactylis glomerata, Agrimonia eupatorium, Heracleum sphondylium, Centaurea nigra, Trisetum flavescens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and locally {\it Lotus corniculatus, Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The area in front of Lodge Farm is badly eroded. There are a few mature {\it Quercus} sp. to the west of the road.

The species-rich hedgerows bordering the tracks and paths support {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix cinerea, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa arvensis, Corylus avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus, Populus tremula, Acer campestre, Betula pendula, Lonicera periclymenum, Quercus robur, Cornus sanguinea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and locally {\it Symphoricarpos albus}. Along the foot of the hedgerows {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Urtica dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Stellaria holostea, Lapsana communis, Viola} sp. and {\it Tamus communis} were recorded and locally {\it Fragaria vesca, Dryopteris filix-mas, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Primula vulgaris, Veronica beccabunga} and {\it Mercurialis perennis}. Species-rich hedgerows are one of the key habitats on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

MANAGE:
Parts of the common are mown and most of the tracks are well used. One of the tracks had been used by cattle also (as access to fields?). There is scrub and bracken encroachment on some of the grassland areas (including the area of unimproved neutral grassland). Some dumping of grass cuttings near the school was noted. There is local damage to the common outside Lodge Farm caused by driving or parking farm vehicles.


FAUNA:
Mole activity, the birds wheatear, buzzard and raven, and the butterflies small copper and peacock were recorded during the site visit. Small skipper has been recorded from the common between 1990 and 1997 by the Butterfly Conservation Society.

VEG:
Vagar Hill common lies on the crest and parts of the southwestern slopes of a hill close to the Black Mountains. The majority of the common is covered by dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with small pockets of {\it Ulex gallii} heath, semi-improved acid grassland and marshy grassland. 

The semi-improved acid grassland is largely dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Spergularia} sp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens}, fine-leaved {\it Festuca} spp., {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. There are some old anthills in these areas with {\it Aira praecox, Pilosella officinarum, Galium saxatile} and some bryophyte spp. 

The marshy grassland at the southern end of the common has frequent {\it Juncus effusus, J. articulatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile} with occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Lotus corniculatus, Luzula} sp., {\it Potentilla erecta, Molinia caerulea} and {\it Scutellaria minor}. A little sphagnum was also seen. This area could possibly be classified as wet heath due to the large amount of {\it Ulex gallii}. The marshy grassland at the northern end of the common was not surveyed as there was no public access to this part. 

South of the road crossing the southernmost end of the common is an area of semi-improved neutral grassland consisting of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus}, locally abundant {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Ulex gallii, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lotus pedunculatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. {\it Centaurea nigra, Lathyrus pratensis, Campanula rotundifolia} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit} were rare in this community. At the eastern end is an area of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub. 

Two spring-lines cross the common. Along the southernmost springline {\it Veronica beccabunga, Ranunculus flammula, Juncus} spp., {\it Carex panicea, Carex} sp. and {\it Apium nodiflorum} were recorded. 

A section of grass track at the northern end is included within the boundary. Scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Betula pendula} were encroaching on this. 

Scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} mark the boundary of the common which is now fenced.

MANAGE:
Several horses were grazing the southern end of the common, part of which had also been subject to burning in the past possibly as a control measure for the gorse. Vagar Hill was included in the 1996 Marches Commons Enhancement Project proposal made by Shropshire and Herefordshire Wildlife Trusts and English Nature. The commons included are all Key Wildlife Sites or SSSIs. Much of the management work is envisaged to be carried out by local farmers/commoners over a period of three years. The proposal also allows for site interpretation and marketing for tourism.


VEG:
Lower Common is situated on the western side of Little Black Hill overlooking the Olchon Valley just outside the Brecon Beacons National Park. It supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex} sp. 

There are small areas of semi-natural broadleaved woodland on the common. The northern area borders a stream (dry at the time of the site visit) and has a canopy of {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Betula} sp., an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana} and a groundflora of {\it Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Stachys sylvatica, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lapsana communis, Rumex sanguineus, Pteridium aquilinum, Poa nemoralis, Lonicera periclymenum, Oxalis acetosella, Moehringia trinervia, Veronica montana, Galium saxatile, Epilobium montanum, Mercurialis perennis, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Viola} sp. The area to the south comprises dense, young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Betula pendula} with an understorey of {\it Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and a sparse groundflora of {\it Glechoma hederacea, Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Poa nemoralis} and {\it Digitalis purpurea}.

There is a small area of coarse, semi-improved neutral grassland at the centre of the common comprising frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Achillea millefolium, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Angelica sylvestris, Pimpinella saxifraga, Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Hypericum} sp., locally with occasional {\it Campanula glomerata, Clinopodium vulgare, Festuca ovina, Trifolium pratense, Lotus pedunculatus, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Viola} sp. and scattered scrub of {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

The road at the northern end of the common is bordered by a defunct species-rich hedgerow on the western side with {\it Salix cinerea, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Alnus glutinosa, Acer pseudoplatanus, A. campestre, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Malus} sp.

MANAGE:
The common is apparently unmanaged, except for some cutting of the road verges, with much bracken and scrub encroachment.


FAUNA:
Gatekeeper butterfly was recorded during the site visit. There was a dead badger by the roadside. The additional butterflies red admiral and small tortoiseshell have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Saddlebow hill is situated on a steep north-west facing slope west of Orcop Hill in the south of the county. The common is dominated by continuous bracken with scattered scrub of {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Rosa canina, Crataegus monogyna, Ulex gallii}, frequent {\it Malus} sp. and scattered tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. Along the roadside amongst the bracken {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Filipendula ulmaria, Potentilla erecta, Deschampsia cespitosa, Clinopodium vulgare, Teucrium scorodonia} and {\it Lotus pedunculatus} were recorded. There is some continuous scrub at the western end of the common comprising {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with patches of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Cirsium arvense}. 

Towards the eastern end of the common are a couple of small areas of semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Populus tremula} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, an understorey of {\it Salix cinerea} and a groundflora of {\it Geranium robertianum, Urtica dioica, Dryopteris filix-mas, Epipactis helleborine} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Locally the woodland is dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with a dense understorey of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Acer campestre} and {\it Rosa} sp. and a sparse groundflora of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Hedera helix}. 

At the northern end of the common is a disused track becoming encroached with the bordering hedgerows of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix cinerea} and supporting {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica}. The hedgerows are also encroaching elsewhere on the common.

MANAGE:
Saddlebow common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Hereford Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The common is unmanaged and largely encroached with continuous bracken and scrub. There are a number of {\it Malus} sp. on the common which were probably planted in the past. The public footpath which crosses the common is un-navigable. There is a roadside layby on the common.


FAUNA:
Carrion crow, yellowhammer and swallow were recorded during the site visit. There were also a number of mute swans on the adjoining section of the river.

VEG:
Backney common is situated in a bend of the River Wye to the north of Ross-on-Wye. The vegetation consists of semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} (both locally dominant) and {\it Agrostis capillaris}, occasional {\it Trifolium repens, Cirsium arvensis, Agrostis stolonifera, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Festuca rubra} and locally {\it Urtica dioica}. {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} is particularly abundant in the lower lying centre of the common. 

The river bank to the south-west is fringed with {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} locally forming a large stand. There are a couple of {\it Salix fragilis} on the north-western end of the common. Here the common is continuous with the adjoining field, the boundary being delimited by a shallow ditch. The track and boundary to the north is bordered by a defunct species-poor (although fairly species-rich) hedgerow of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa, Salix fragilis, S. alba, Malus} sp. with some {\it Humulus lupulus} and {\it Clematis vitalba}.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by cattle and the thistles had been treated. The common has evidently been improved. The areas dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} were less grazed than elsewhere. The presence of {\it Cirsium arvensis} could indicate past overgrazing of the common. The common may flood in the lower lying parts and may be of some importance as a winter feeding ground for birds eg. mute swans.


FAUNA:
Rabbit, mole, mallard, mute swan, black-headed gull, carrion crow and a few species of damselfly were recorded during the site visit. The fauna of the SSSI is described in detail under the entry for CL76, Clifford common, with the exception of water vole and the dragonfly {\it Orthetrum cancellatum} (at the north-western edge of its distribution) which occur along the middle reaches of the SSSI. Water vole is listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Moor meadow consists of a stretch of the River Wye and an area of adjacent pasture near Ross-on-Wye. It supports a herb-poor, semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Lolium perenne} (locally abundant) with occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata} and locally {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Festuca rubra}. There are a few scattered {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it C. vulgare} and very occasional {\it Stellaria media, Cerastium fontanum, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Rumex acetosa}. 

Scattered {\it Salix fragilis, Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} occur along the river bank with some {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Conium maculatum} beneath.

There is a lot of {\it Ranunculus fluviatilis} in the river with marginal {\it Lythrum salicaria} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}. The vegetation of the SSSI is described in detail under the entry for CL76, Clifford common.

There are drains around the periphery of the common largely overgrown with {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica, Calystegia sepium, Impatiens glandulifera, Angelica sylvestris, Oenanthe crocata} and locally {\it Tanacetum vulgare} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. 

The common is bordered by a fence to the south-west and hedgerows with trees (locally species-poor) supporting {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Salix fragilis, S. alba, S. cinerea, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Quercus robur}.

MANAGE:
The common was being used for sheep grazing. The common has evidently been improved and is of little botanical interest.


VEG:
Welsh Newton common is situated on a hill top north of Monmouth on the edge of the Mally Brook valley, a tributary of the River Wye. It consists of a number of pieces of land and interconnecting tracks. The northern end of the common is largely wooded with a canopy of {\it Fagus sylvatica}, locally dominant {\it Quercus} sp. and occasional {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The understorey consists of frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} with occasional {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. The groundflora is generally sparse but diverse with some leaf litter and occasional {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix, Aegopodium podagraria, Galeopsis tetrahit, Geum urbanum, Stellaria holostea, Anthriscus sylvestris, Stachys sylvatica, Circaea lutetiana, Iris foetidus, Mecanopsis cambrica?} (a garden escape?), {\it Holcus} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and the bryophyte {\it Mnium hornum}. The groundflora has greater cover where {\it Quercus} sp. is the dominant canopy species consisting predominantly of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with in addition to the above {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides}.

The small area of woodland at SO51231777 has a canopy dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The understorey consists of {\it Cytisus scoparius, Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium} and frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Holcus lanatus, Pteridium aquilinum, Teucrium scorodonia, Lonicera periclymenum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and rarely {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Potentilla erecta}.

The southern end of the common supports some semi-improved neutral grassland consisting of {\it Dactylis glomerata, Agrostis capillaris, Lolium perenne, Arrhenatherum elatius, Trifolium repens, Urtica dioica, Plantago major, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Hypochaeris radicata} with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. At the western end is an area of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica} and a small fragment of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus} sp. woodland. There is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} beneath scattered {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} on the eastern side of the road.

Parts of the common are variously bordered by defunct and intact species-poor hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} locally with {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees and some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Along the track bordering the eastern edge of the common is a line of mature {\it Fagus sylvatica} trees.

MANAGE:
The common is no longer grazed. The area of grassland is occasionally cut and a small area of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} adjacent to the road at the southern end of the common had also been cut. An area of woodland had been cleared beneath overhead cables.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, wood pigeon, great tit, blackbird, robin and chaffinch were recorded during the site visit. Buzzard and cuckoo were heard nearby.

VEG:
The Old Quarry is situated on a steep north-west facing hillside on the edge of the Wye Valley. There is evidence of past quarrying. The common supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of ancient coppiced {\it Fagus sylvatica} with occasional {\it Prunus avium, Betula pendula, Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. {\it Quercus} sp. is locally dominant at the southern end. There is a sparse understorey of {\it Ilex aquifolium, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Sambucus nigra} and groundflora of {\it Lonicera periclymenum, Hedera helix, Blechnum spicant, Dryopteris dilatata, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Luzula} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and the bryophyte {\it Mnium hornum}. {\it Corylus avellana, Ulmus glabra, Crataegus monogyna, Rosa arvensis} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} were also present in the area dominanted by {\it Quercus} sp. where the groundflora was also more diverse supporting in addition {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Melica uniflora, Conopodium majus, Teucrium scorodonia, Tamus communis, Anemone nemorosa, Vicia sepium, Dryopteris filix-mas, Millium effusum, Polypodium} sp. and {\it Galium aparine}. {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon} and {\it Viola} sp. were also recorded here by the Herefordshire Nature Trust (HNT). Additional species of fern recorded from the common include {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium, Athyrium filix-femina} and {\it Dryopteris affinis}. {\it Solidago vigaurea} was recorded from a quarry/scar area at the southern end of the common by HNT. Lowland beechwoods are one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

There is a steep rocky scar on the western side of the wood dropping down to the road. The vegetation here is scrubby with tall ruderals {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Petasites hybridus, Geum urbanum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Hedera helix, Glechoma hederacea, Alliaria petiolata, Ranunculus repens, Rumex obtusifolius, Cirsium arvense} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and scrub species {\it Corylus avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula, Buddleja davidii, Tilia} sp. and {\it Acer campestre}. {\it Tilia cordata} was recorded in this area by HNT being described at that time as diverse woodland.

MANAGE:
This area of woodland has been included in English Nature's Inventory of Ancient Woodland with features such as woodbanks and several 'Ancient Woodland' indicator species. Lowland beechwoods are one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. A draft management plan was drawn up for the common by Herefordshire Nature Trust (undated). There were 3 general objectives:

1) To maintain and enhance the native indigenous character of the woodland together with the associated plants and animal communities.

2) To maintain the great aesthetic beauty of the woodland so that it may be enjoyed by the local community and visitors to the area.

3) To provide an area which could be used for local educational purposes if needed.

with the specific objectives to:

1) To maintain the woodland as a traditional coppiced woodland.

2) To maintain as far as possible, the natural diversity of species within the wood. 

3) Ensure the protection of any notable or rare trees or shrubs eg. {\it Tilia cordata} and {\it Taxus baccata}.

Management prescriptions included a small amount of experimental coppicing of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and if successful to extend this to other parts of the woodland on a small scale, the removal of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} seedlings and possibly some coppicing of the understorey in the {\it Quercus} sp. dominated area. Clearly the ancient pollards and lying deadwood could be an important habitat for invertebrates but provision for continuity should be made. The only management that appears to have taken place is some clearing of the woodland edge along the roadside previously described as diverse woodland and now supporting scattered scrub and tall ruderal vegetation. It was suggested in the management plan that this would be necessary for safety reasons and recommended that it was coppiced on a short rotation system. 

Natural regeneration of {\it Fagus sylvatica} was observed within the woodland.


FAUNA:
Common blue butterfly was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Peterstow common is situated on a gentle north-facing slope in the Wye Valley AONB to the west of Ross-On-Wye. The majority of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Lolium perenne} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium} and occasional {\it Taraxacum officinale, Agrostis stolonifera, Trifolium repens, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Bellis perennis}. The sward is locally coarse with {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Trifolium pratense} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and locally rich with {\it Centaurea nigra, Hypochaeris radicata, Leontodon autumnalis, Pimpinella saxifraga, Galium verum, Lathyrus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Geranium pratense, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. {\it Aegopodium podagraria, Urtica dioica, Symphytum} sp. and {\it Convolvulus arvensis} occur locally. There is a {\it Fraxinus excelsior} tree in the grassland area and two {\it Tilia x vulgaris} adjacent to the main road.

The western section of the common comprises a small tarmacked area and broadleaved woodland with planted ornamental {\it Acer} sp. and {\it Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Salix fragilis} forming the canopy. The understorey comprises {\it Taxus baccata, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulmus glabra} and the groundflora {\it Calystegia sepium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Aegopodium podagraria, Hedera helix, Alliaria petiolata, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica}.

The common is bordered to the south by a defunct species-poor hedgerow of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
The grazing rights are apparently no longer excercised on this common. One of the reasons for this is probably because the common is open to a trunk road. The grassland area is regularly mown with closely mown paths crossing the common. There has been some tree planting on the common. A small area of the western section of the common outside a property has been tarmacked. The village war memorial stands on the common.


VEG:
Upper Grove common is situated on a gentle north-west facing slope, north-west of Ross-on-Wye. It supports small areas of semi-improved to improved neutral grassland (locally with scattered trees) around a number of gravel tracks and paths. The grassland is generally coarse with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Achillea millefolium, Ranunculus acris, Centaurea nigra, Calystegia sepium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Cirsium arvense}. Locally the grassland is dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Dactylis glomerata, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and locally {\it Glechoma hederacea}. There was also a small area of grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent {\it Plantago lanceolata, Festuca} sp. and occasional {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia}. The scattered trees on the common are of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Pyrus communis, Malus} sp. and {\it Prunus} sp. with a small thicket of {\it Ulmus} sp. {\it Rubus idaeus} and a cultivar of {\it Achillea ptarmica} were also recorded on the common.

MANAGE:
Management of the grassland varies across the common. Some areas are fairly regularly mown (such as the {\it Holcus lanatus} dominated area), others less frequently so and parts probably uncut. There is a little used football pitch on the eastern end of the common. There has been some planting of trees (largely fruit trees). There is a shed, woodpile and bonfire site on the eastern end of the common and some dumping of garden rubbish. There is an old water pump at the centre of the common.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, rabbit, fallow deer, pheasant, jackdaw, carrion crow, cuckoo, wren, mistle thrush, great tit, blackbird, buzzard, woodpigeon, chiffchaff, skylark, greenfinch, wood warbler, blackcap, tree creeper, chaffinch and the butterflies small tortoiseshell, speckled wood, peacock and orange tip were recorded during the site visits. 

A total of 77 species of bird were recorded on and over Coppet Hill 1982-1983 with 45 species recorded as breeding including woodcock, cuckoo, little owl, all three species of woodpecker, skylark, tree and meadow pipits, redstart, spotted flycatcher, song thrush, tree sparrow, linnet and bullfinch (T.Fenton). Non-breeding species recorded include peregrine (nests on cliffs opposite below Symmonds Yat rock), curlew, tawny owl, fieldfare, redwing, rook, raven, siskin and redpoll. Long-eared owl, whinchat, nightingale, hawfinch and pied flycatcher have also been recorded from the common (HNT records). Skylark and song thrush are both listed on the short-list and spotted flycatcher, tree pipit and bullfinch on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

23 species of butterfly have been recorded from the common 1990-1997 (Butterfly Conservation Society records) including wood white, common blue, holly blue, white admiral, comma, pearl-bordered fritillary, marbled white, ringlet and small heath. A total of 24 species of butterfly were also recorded on Coppet Hill (1982-83) including the additional species clouded yellow, wall brown and dingy skipper. Pearl-bordered fritillary is listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Other faunal records for the common include a population of 30-40 fallow deer, polecat, dormouse, fox, five badger setts, stoat, weasel, a few colonies of bats including the greater horseshoe bat, wood ants, glow worm, hornets, great crested and smooth newts, toads, slow worm, common lizard, grass snake and adder (HNT records). Dormouse, greater horseshoe bat and great crested newt are listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Coppet Hill lies within a bend in the River Wye between Symonds Yat and Goodrich. It is situated on the north and west-facing slopes of a two-mile long ridge running north-south rising to almost 200m. The underlying geology is Old Red Sandstone and Quartz Conglomerate. Two visits were made to the common on 06.06.96 and 09.06.97.

The northern slopes of the common support semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus, Prunus avium, Quercus} sp. and rarely {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix} spp. along the banks of the River Wye. There was much deadwood. Understorey species recorded were {\it Corylus avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Ribes uva-crispa, Quercus petraea} and {\it Taxus baccata}. The groundflora is generally sparse with frequent ferns including {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Pteridium aquilinum, Mercurialis perennis, Urtica dioica, Circaea lutetiana, Geum urbanum, Ranunculus ficaria, Rumex sanguineus, Arum maculatum, Moehringia trinervia, Hedera helix} and locally {\it Luzula sylvatica} and {\it Umbilicus rupestris}. The bryophytes {\it Mnium hornum, Brachythecium rutabulum} and {\it Eurynchium praelongum} and the fungi {\it Aleuria aurantica} and {\it Daldinia concentrica} were also recorded. {\it Sanicula europaea} and {\it Millium effusum} were recorded near the river. {\it Colchicum autumnale} was recorded next to the track at SO581185. Additional species recorded in this area of woodland include {\it Blechnum spicant, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Melica uniflora, Oxalis acetosella, Platanthera chlorantha, Anemone nemorosa, Athyrium filix-femina, Luzula pilosa, Viscum album, Blackstonia perfoliata, Paris quadrifolia, Lathraea squamaria} and {\it Polystichum setiferum} (Coppet Hill Management Plan, 1987). Along the edge of the River Wye {\it Impatiens glandulifera, Alliaria petiolata, Montia sibirica, Conium maculatum, Ranunculus repens, Silene dioica, Urtica dioica} and {\it Oenanthe croccata} were recorded.

There is an area of old limestone quarries at this end of the common supporting a rich flora of {\it Bromopsis erecta, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Carex flacca, Fragaria vesca, Centaurea nigra, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Primula vulgaris, Inula conyza, Pteridium aquilinum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Clematis vitalba, Briza media, Brachypodium pinnatum, Thymus polytrichus, Plantago media, Gentianella amarella, Ophrys apifera, Polygala vulgaris, Polypodium vulgare, Asplenium trichomanes, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Anacamptis pyramidalis, Viola} sp. and {\it Cornus sanguinea} (Coppet Hill Management Plan, 1987).

The majority of the west-facing slope supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Quercus} sp. {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Digitalis purpurea, Stellaria holostea, Holcus mollis} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} also occur amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There are scattered trees along the eastern edge of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Ulmus glabra} and {\it Corylus avellana}. There are a few patches of unimproved acid grassland amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} of {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} with occasional {\it Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta, Teucrium scorodonia, Chamerion angustifolium, Polygala vulgaris, Ulex gallii?} and locally {\it Luzula} sp. and {\it Carex caryophyllea}. Along the pathsides on the hill top {\it Galium saxatile, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis capillaris, Festuca rubra, Lotus corniculatus, Potentilla erecta, Plantago lanceolata, Teucrium scorodonia, Rumex acetosella, Polygala vulgaris, Veronica officinalis, Hieracium brunneocroceum, Calluna vulgaris} (locally frequent), {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Conopodium majus, Aphanes arvensis, Achillea millefolium, Veronica chamaedrys, Cerastium glomeratum, Stellaria graminea, Viola} sp. and locally {\it Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. {\it Galium verum, Pimpinella saxifraga, Cruciata laevipes, Linaria vulgaris, Listera ovata, Briza media, Clinopodium vulgare, Brachypodium pinnatum, Hypericum hirsutum} and {\it Carex flacca} were recorded along the footpath immediately to the north of the continuous scrub at the southern end of the common. {\it Colchicum autumnale} was fairly frequent towards the southern end.  

Along the foot of the slope is a strip of broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp. with {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Betula pendula}, locally dominated by {\it Fagus sylvatica} or {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There are a couple of mature trees of {\it Castanea sativa} and {\it Tilia} sp. and mature {\it Pinus} sp. along the boundary wall. Understorey species recorded were {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, Ribes rubrum, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Taxus baccata} with a groundflora of {\it Ranunculus ficaria, Dryopteris filix-mas, Rumex sanguineus, Primula vulgaris, Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum, Stellaria holostea, Mercurialis perennis, Arum maculatum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., the bryophyte {\it Polytrichum} sp. and the fungus {\it Pycnoporus cinnabarinus?} (on dead wood). Above 'Mainoaks' the canopy was dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and the groundflora here was lusher with more frequent ferns including {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium} and {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Circaea lutetiana, Urtica dioica, Tamus communis, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Millium effusum, Geum urbanum} and {\it Lamiastrum galeobdolon}. {\it Cornus sanguinea} was present in the understorey. There is a small quarry at SO 569171 with {\it Umbillicus rupestris}. Additional species recorded in this area of woodland include {\it Carex sylvatica, Melica uniflora, Polystichum setiferum, Luzula pilosa, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Polypodium vulgare}.

Towards the southern end of the common the vegetation grades into continuous scrub of {\it Prunus spinosa, Clematis vitalba, Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula} (locally dominant), {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Castanea sativa, Larix decidua, Ulex europaeus} (locally dominant), {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Rosa canina}. There was little groundflora beneath the scrub with some {\it Mercurialis perennis} and locally {\it Lithospermum officinale}. There is a small plantation of {\it Castanea sativa} within the area of scrub with some {\it Fraxinus excelsior} in the canopy, {\it Crataegus monogyna, Clematis vitalba, Cornus sanguinea} and {\it Ribes uva-crispa} in the understorey and a sparse groundflora of {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Pteridium aquilinum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Viola} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

At the southern extremity is a strip of semi-natural broadleaved woodland with coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} beneath {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} in the groundflora and an area of coniferous plantation of {\it Pseudotsuga menziesii, Picea abies} and {\it Larix decidua} with no groundflora. The southern end of the common is described in the management plan as an extension of Coldwell Wood with {\it Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} with some {\it Ulmus procera, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Pseudotsuga menziesii} and a richer groundflora including {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lonicera periclymenum, Colchicum autumnale} and several species of orchid.

A total of 195 species of vascular plant were recorded from the common 1982-83 (T. Fenton) including {\it Orchis mascula, Epipactis helleborine, Neottia nidus-avis, Polystichum aculeatum, Vicia sylvatica, Sanguisorba minor, Vaccinium myrtillus, Primula veris, Centaureum erythraea, Euphrasia officinalis, Origanum vulgare, Galium odoratum, Viburnum opulus, Carlina vulgaris} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. A number of introduced species have also been recorded on the common including {\it Fallopia japonica, Symphoricarpos albus, Veronica filiformis, Petasites fragrans, Anaphalis margaritacea, Pentaglottis sempervirens} and {\it Aquilegia vulgaris, Buxus sempervirens, Pulmonaria officinalis} and {\it Sorbus intermedia} (often naturalised but less commonly native).

The common is very important for fungi with over one hundred species having been recorded, eight of which were new to science and others of considerable rarity (HNT records).

The common is largely bordered by dry stone walls.

MANAGE:
There seems to be little management on the common at present. There is browsing by deer and some grazing by rabbits. A lot of the woodland is old coppice. There is quite a lot of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} in the woodland, particularly in the understorey, which will rapidly grow up into the canopy to replace the canopy trees as they die. This tree is not a native species and is of limited conservation value. Some control of this species is probably desirable. Other non-native trees are also colonising the woodland areas from the nearby plantations ({\it Larix decidua, Castanea sativa, Pseudotsuga menziesii}). There is a small amount of plantation woodland on the common. Quite a bit of lying deadwood and some mature trees were noted which are important habitats for invertebrates and fungi. The area at the southern end of the common was largely mapped as continuous scrub with little groundflora although previously described as woodland with a rich groundflora.

Much of the interest outside the wooded areas is restricted to the pathsides, there being dense litter beneath the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and little other vegetation. The remaining areas of open grassland should be maintained and possibly could be extended. The area of frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris} had been grazed or mown (also some nearby {\it Ulex gallii}) and this area could also possibly be extended through appropriate management. 

The common is of importance for supporting six species listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan including the pearl-bordered fritillary. This species requires violets for egg-laying within fairly open bracken stands and has been badly affected by abandonment and cessation of grazing and bracken control measures. Three further species are listed on the middle list. A number of introduced plants occur on the common.

There has been a planning application for an adventure youth camp at Coppet Hill which was opposed by Hereford Nature Trust.


FAUNA:
Meadow brown butterfly was recorded during the site visit. Great Doward SSSI, which includes Kiln Tumps, supports a rich invertebrate fauna including the butterflies marbled white, small pearl-bordered fritillary, white admiral and the nationally restricted wood white and pearl-bordered fritillary. Two nationally restricted moths {\it Digitivalva perlipedella} and {\it Lobesia occidentis} occur on the SSSI (SSSI citation). There is also a record for purple emperor from this area. Pearl-bordered fritillary is listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Kiln Tumps is situated on the north-facing slope of Great Doward Hill overlying Carboniferous limestone. The Doward area forms the north-west corner of the Forest of Dean plateau and is cut off from it by the Wye gorge. 

The common largely supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Fagus sylvatica} with occasional {\it Sorbus aria, Betula pendula, Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The understorey comprises {\it Taxus baccata, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Acer campestre} and the groundflora {\it Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Clinopodium vulgare, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Tamus communis, Fragaria vesca, Pteridium aquilinum, Mercurialis perennis, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Daphne laureola, Viola} sp. and locally {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}. Lowland beechwood is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The SSSI is of greatest importance for the limestone grassland areas, a scarce habitat in Herefordshire and one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. There is a very small area of unimproved calcareous grassland at the centre of Kiln Tumps supporting abundant {\it Bromopsis erecta} with locally frequent {\it Brachypodium pinnatum} and occasional {\it Galium verum, Lotus corniculatus, Centaurea nigra, Leucanthemum vulgare, Briza media, Sanguisorba minor, Pimpinella saxifraga, Campanula rotundifolia, Hypochaeris radicata, Clinopodium vulgare, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Dactylis glomerata}. {\it Primula vulgaris, Carex flacca} and {\it Plantago media} were rare. Over 140 plant species have been recorded from the calcareous grassland on Kiln Tumps including less common species such as {\it Platanthera chlorantha, Spiranthes spiralis} and {\it Orchis morio}. {\it Viburnum lantana} and {\it Rhamnus catharticus} occur amongst the scrub on both parts of the SSSI. Lowland calcareous grassland is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiveristy Action Plan. The grassland area is surrounded by scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with abundant {\it Hedera helix} and occasional {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Heracleum sphondylium, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Tussilago farfara}.

MANAGE:
An area around the remaining area of unimproved calcareous grassland had recently been cleared of scrub. However, there was no evidence of recolonisation of this area by calcareous grassland which it presumably once supported, supporting scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and abundant {\it Hedera helix}. The extant grassland is not grazed and needs to be actively managed to prevent further loss to scrub encroachment and to maintain the species diversity. 

In the 17th century, the whole of the Great Doward area was woodland which belonged to the Earl of Kent, and was managed as coppice to provide charcoal for the Earl's nearby iron forge on the River Wye. The Earl's tennants had commoner's rights in the woods except for one enclosed area (probably Lord's Wood). In the 18th century encroachments took place on the area to the north of Lord's Wood resulting in a mosaic of small fields with many scattered cottages. Kiln Tumps lies within this area. A number of these areas have now reverted to secondary woodland including much of this common. Limestone quarrying has also affected the area and there are two registered rights of common in soil on the common for stone and lime.


VEG:
Wilton common is situated on the edge of the River Wye, east of Ross-on-Wye. It comprises two parts on either side of Wilton Bridge. It supports an amenity grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Trifolium repens} and occasional {\it Taraxacum officinale, Rumex crispus, Holcus lanatus, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. There are scattered {\it Salix} spp. along the river bank west of Wilton Bridge together with {\it Impatiens glandulifera, Urtica dioica, Conium maculatum} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. There was some {\it Reynoutria japonica} on the bank east of the bridge and marginal {\it Butomus umbellatus} and {\it Schoenoplectus lacustris} just off the common. 

There are a couple of areas of coarse semi-improved neutral grassland with tall ruderal vegetation on the common. The area at the south-western end of the common supports {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Galeopsis tetrahit, Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Impatiens glandulifera}. The other area is on the bank dropping away from the northern side of the road (too small to map) with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Urtica dioica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} ({\it U. dioica} is locally dominant near where the path goes under the bridge). 

There is a small area of continuous scrub south of Wilton Bridge comprising {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Acer campestre, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. 

The area south of the bridge is bordered by a defunct, species-rich hedgerow supporting {\it Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus robur, Salix} spp. and dead {\it Ulmus} sp. Ancient/species-rich hedgerows are one of the key habitats on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

MANAGE:
The common is managed by regular mowing except for the areas of coarse grassland and tall ruderal vegetation which are probably unmanaged. The area to the north of Wilton Bridge is part of a larger area managed as a picnic area with picnic benches and litter bins. The southern area is adjacent to a playing field, separated by a defunct, unmanaged hedgerow. This species-rich hedgerow is an important feature of the common and should be maintained.


FAUNA:
Rabbit, mole, chaffinch, greater spotted woodpecker, house martin, wood warbler, blackbird, wood pigeon, yellowhammer, raven and the butterflies speckled wood, dark green fritillary and green-veined white were recorded during the site visit. Bircher common is one of only three Herefordshire commons supporting both the nationally rare pearl-bordered and high brown fritillaries (Butterfly Conservation Society records) both of which are included in the UK Biodiversity Action plan short list. The butterflies large white, common blue, red admiral, painted lady, small tortoiseshell, peacock, meadow brown and ringlet have also been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

The bracken, scrub and broadleaved woodland areas are particularly important for birds with substantial flocks of redwing and fieldfare recorded during the winter of 1983, yellowhammer and linnet amongst the gorse and breeding redstart. Buzzard, sparrowhawk, swallow, house-martin and swift were recorded flying over the common and flocks of wood pigeon, stock dove, jackdaw, carrion crow and rook feeding amongst the open grassland. The conifer plantations were generally poor for birds although coal tit and goldcrest were in evidence (Wilkins, 1983). 

In 1984 skylark and magpie were recorded feeding in the open grassland areas and raven flying overhead (NT survey). Skylark is included in the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Dunnock, willow warbler and tree pipit were recorded amongst the open scrub in the western valley and chaffinch, wren, willow warbler, jay, great tit and wood warbler in the denser wooded areas. Bullfinch, wren and mistle thrush were associated with old quarries on the common (NT survey). Bullfinch is included in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan middle list of globally threatened/declining species. The wooded stream valley north of Bircher coppice supported willow warbler, chiffchaff and robin. Tree creeper, chaffinch, mistle thrush and magpie were recorded from the outer deciduous margin of Oaker coppice. Signs of fox were also noted. 

The western valley was the richest area for invertebrates on the common although no particularly uncommon species were recorded. {\it Betula pendula} foliage supported the leaf weevils {\it Polydrusus undatus, Phyllobius pyri, P. argentatus} and {\it Strophosomus melanogrammus}, the soldier beetle {\it Malthodes minimus} and various moth larvae, sawfly larvae, aphids, mirid bugs and leafhoppers. The parasitic wasps {\it Netelia cristatus} and {\it Macrocentrus linearis} were also recorded and green hairstreak and green-veined white butterflies (NT survey, 1984).

Deadwood habitats were well represented but not as good as elsewhere on the Croft Ambrey estate. The beetles {\it Melanotus erythropus, Cerylon ferrugineum} and {\it Pyrochroa} sp. as well as various woodlice, millipedes, centipedes and earthworms were recorded from {\it Fagus sylvatica} deadwood and the additional beetle species {\it Rhizophagus dispar} from {\it Betula pendula} deadwood. 

Open grassland and bracken areas supported a typical acid grassland fauna with insects such as the click beetle {\it Selatosomus aeneus} and the ground beetle {\it Nebria salina}. The ground beetle {\it Bembidion harpaloides} and the woodlouse {\it Androniscus dentiger} were recorded from the quarries on the common (NT, 1984). Slow worm was recorded in a sheltered bracken area in 1983 (Wilkins).

Two of the specialist deadwood-associated beetles recorded in the nearby Fishpool valley SSSI ({\it Bitoma crenata} and {\it Cerylon feruugineum}) were recorded from a birch stump in the narrow strip of grazed woodland in the stream valley to the north of Bircher coppice and also the more widespread beetles {\it Rhizophagus dispar} and {\it Cis} sp. and the millepedes {\it Proteroiulus fuscus} and {\it Cylindroiulus punctatus}. Also recorded from deadwood in this valley were larvae of the longhorn beetle {\it Rhagium mordax} and surface-living species such as the centipede {\it Lithobius variegatus}, tree slug {\it Limax marginatus}, ground beetles {\it Loricera pilicornis} and {\it Agonum marginatum} and various mites, woodlice and rove beetles. The leaf beetle {\it Phyllodecta vulgatissima} was present on aspen foliage and the leaf weevil {\it Polydrosus undatus} on oak. The areas of spruce plantation were of no great interest.

A typical aquatic invertebrate fauna was recorded from the stream to the north of Bircher coppice with alder fly, stonefly and caddisfly larvae, the snails {\it Ancylus fluviatulis} and {\it Lymnaea truncatula}, the freshwater shrimp {\it Gammarus pulex}, flatworms and the riffle beetle {\it Elmis aena}. The semi-aquatic beetles {\it Anacaena globulus} and {\it Helophorus} sp., the damp-loving snail {\it Carychium minimum}, the rove beetle {\it Lesteva} sp. and various linyphiid spiders, springtails and woodlice were recorded from the flushes and banksides associated with the stream. The fauna of the stream in the western valley is similar but with poaching of the banks restricting the invertebrate fauna. Large numbers of frogs were recorded from the pond at SO465665 by Wilkins (1983).

VEG:
Bircher common is situated on a south-east facing hillside in the north of the county. The common drops away into stream valleys to the north and west. A number of springs arise along the southern edge of the common. 

The lower slopes of the common support continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and locally scattered broadleaved trees of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Aesculus hippocastanum, Sorbus aucuparia, Fagus sylvatica, Betula pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus, Castanea sativa, Quercus} spp. and {\it Tilia x vulgaris}, some of which have been planted. There are several notable ancient pollards of {\it Quercus petraea, Fraxinus excelsior, Castanea sativa} and one confirmed native {\it Populus nigra} pollard at SO470677. Species recorded amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and along the paths include {\it Digitalis purpurea, Veronica hederifolia, Linum catharticum, Aphanes arvensis} and {\it Spergularia} sp. There are a few other areas of continuous bracken elsewhere on the common.  

There are a few pockets of grassland amongst the bracken. Near Yew tree farm at the southern end of the common is an uneven area of semi-improved acid grassland with {\it Vulpia bromoides, Aira praecox, Holcus} sp., {\it Festuca} sp., {\it Achillea millefolium, Trifolium dubium, Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Cirsium vulgare}. Surrounding the pond immediately north from here is an area of semi-improved neutral grassland comprising frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Plantago lanceolata, Agrostis stolonifera, A. capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Prunella vulgaris, Luzula} sp. and {\it Lolium perenne}. At least 20 fronds of {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum} were recorded at SO464664 during the NT survey (1984) and two small stems of the nationally scarce* {\it Marrubium vulgare} were recorded at SO465662 during the current survey and also here and at SO459659 during the 1983 survey (R.Wilkins). There is a small quarry amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} at the south-western end of the common with {\it Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, Polypodium} sp. and bryophytes on the walls and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Urtica dioica} on the floor. {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium, Asplenium trichomanes} and {\it Dryopteris} spp. were also recorded from the quarries on the common in 1984 (NT survey).

The upper slopes have been ploughed and reseeded in the past and support a {\it Lolium perenne} dominated grassland with {\it Bellis perennis, Trifolium repens, Cynosurus cristatus, Cirsium arvensis, C. vulgare, C. palustre, Cerastium fontanum} and locally {\it Aira praecox, Vulpia bromoides, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Galium saxatile} with locally scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}.

There are two large plantations on the common managed by the Forestry Commission accounting for almost one third of the area of the common. Oaker coppice had almost entirely been felled except for some old avenues of {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Quercus} sp. and a narrow margin of {\it Fagus sylvatica} (locally {\it Quercus petraea} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}). The felled areas supported {\it Digitalis purpurea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Bircher coppice was not resurveyed during the site visit. Species recorded in the groundflora in 1984 included {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Digitalis purpurea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and locally {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Carex pilulifera}. Between the two coppices there are a series of old banks with small mature {\it Quercus} sp. along them including several old pollards.

The stream valleys to the north and west both support areas of semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The stream valley to the north of Bircher coppice supports {\it Quercus petraea} - {\it Betula pendula} woodland with occasional {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} along the stream and a little {\it Populus tremula}. Understorey species include {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus, Ilex aquifolium, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Salix} sp. There are frequent bryophytes in the groundflora including {\it Mnium hornum, Dicranum scoparium, Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum} and species such as {\it Oxalis acetosella, Luzula pilosa, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Viola riviniana, Blechnum spicant, Holcus} sp. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

In the western valley the woodland comprises a canopy dominated by {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fagus sylvatica} (including some ancient pollards) and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum}. There is also a large {\it Carpinus betulus} pollard. {\it Crataegus monogyna} occurs in the understorey and the groundflora consists of {\it Oxalis acetosella, Pteridium aquilinum, Viola} sp. and {\it Agrostis capillaris}.

The springs arising along the southern edge of the common support {\it Ranunculus repens, Veronica beccabunga, Apium nodiflorum, Glyceria fluitans, Alopecurus geniculatus, Ranunculus flammula, Cardamine pratensis, Callitriche} sp. and {\it Ranunculus hederaceus}. {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris} was also recorded from these springs during the NT survey (1984). The pond at SO465665 was very low with lots of {\it Elodea canadensis} and some aquatic {\it Ranunculus} sp. and {\it Lemna} sp. 

In 1984, the stream bordering the common to the north of Bircher coppice supported carpets of bryophytes on the stream banks with locally {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Mentha aquatica, Stellaria palustris} and the bryophyte {\it Philonotis fontana}. The moss {\it Fontinalis antipyretica} was common on the rocks in the water and {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Veronica beccabunga} were locally frequent. The stream in the western valley was described as similar but less interesting. 

* 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:
Grazing stock on the common at the time of the site visit included sheep (primarily), horses and pigs. Grazing levels were moderate to heavy. The upper parts of the common have been reseeded and improved in the past. The surviving relicts of acid grassland are probably semi-improved as a result of high grazing levels. Poaching from stock was observed around the pond and the stream in the western valley. There are some deep ruts in the grassland at the south-western end of the common caused by vehicles. There has been some ornamental tree planting on the common and there are two large plantations. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food claim an {\it inter alia} lease of the Oaker and Bircher Coppices within this unit for a term of 198 years from 25th March 1925. They are liable to fence off part of the common for periods of 7 years to replant. Bircher coppice is fenced and a large proportion of Oaker coppice had been clear-felled. Some of the ancient pollards on the common had recently been repollarded. There are some sheds on the common near the access via Welshman's Lane. 

The nationally scarce {\it Marrubium vulgare} was not looking particularly healthy and was not relocated at one of the former locations. This species should be monitored. The nationally rare pearl-bordered and high brown fritillaries that occur on the common require violets for egg-laying within fairly open bracken stands. Both species have been badly affected by abandonment and cessation of grazing and bracken control measures and are included in the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

NT management suggestions made in the 1984 survey report include no further improvement of the grassland areas, establishment of replacements for the ancient pollards (particularly the {\it Populus nigra} pollard using cuttings) and further repollarding, no further planting of non-native tree species, to retain the present balance of grassland and bracken and some burning or cutting of gorse retaining a diversity of age structure. There may have been an increase in the density of bracken since the 1984 survey, the report implying that there was more acid grassland amongst the bracken than observed during the site visit.


FAUNA:
Rabbit, woodpigeon and yellowhammer were recorded during the site visit. The following were recorded during a survey on 09.06.90: badger, fox, rabbit, wood mouse, cuckoo, blackcap, blue tit, buzzard, bullfinch, dunnock, fieldfare, magpie, lapwing, nuthatch, robin, song thrush, yellowhammer, wood pigeon, long-tailed tit, redstart, stonechat, chiffchaff, greenfinch, skylark and the butterflies common blue, gatekeeper, speckled wood, small white, orange tip, painted lady, peacock and wall brown (Little Mountain Common Management Plan). Song thrush and skylark are both listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, and bullfinch on the middle list. Additional species mentioned in the Management Plan are willow warbler, wood warbler, pied flycatcher and the butterflies silver-washed fritillary and the nationally rare high brown and pearl-bordered fritillaries both of which are included in the UK Biodiversity Action plan short list. The additional butterflies green-veined white, small tortoiseshell, comma, meadow brown and ringlet have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Little Mountain common lies on the edge of the Black Mountain range in west Herefordshire. It is dominated by outcrops of Old Red Sandstone and Silurian Limestone. The common comprises a small hill dropping away into valleys supporting small streams to the south-east and west and sloping steeply to the north.

The majority of the common (approximately two-thirds) supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Quercus} spp. and {\it Ilex aquifolium} particularly on the northern slopes.

Amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are areas of semi-improved acid grassland of {\it Agrostis capillaris, Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis stolonifera, Holcus lantus, Campanula rotundifolia, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium dubium, Cerastium glomerata, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta} and locally {\it Festuca ovina, Bromus commutatus, Cirsium arvense, Deschampsia cespitosa, Nardus stricta, Ranunculus flammula, Carex panicea, C. ovalis, Gnaphalium uliginosum?} and {\it Aira praecox}. {\it Veronica officinalis} was rare. Similar grassland also occurs along most of the tracks crossing the common.

Around the rocky outcrops at the summit of Little Mountain the semi-improved grassland comprises {\it Aira praecox, Festuca ovina, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Agrostis} sp. and {\it Bromus commutatus} with some scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. {\it Polytrichum} sp., {\it Cladonia} sp. and {\it Pilosella officinarum} occur amongst the rocks. 

A damp semi-improved neutral grassland occurs around the pond at the southern end of the common dominated by {\it Agrostis stolonifera} with {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Juncus conglomeratus, J. articulatus, Ranunculus flammula, Potentilla anserina} and locally {\it Nardus stricta}. 

There is a small area of unimproved acid grassland at SO27854260 consisting of abundant {\it Nardus stricta} with {\it Agrostis capillaris, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Juncus conglomeratus} which is locally wet with frequent {\it Juncus conglomeratus} and {\it Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Carex panicea}.

{\it Ulex gallii} is locally frequent along the eastern boundary south of Pen-y-llan forming a small area of acid dry dwarf shrub heath.

The valley along the western side supports semi-natural {\it Quercus} spp. woodland with a sparse understorey predominantly of {\it Ilex aquifolium} with {\it Fraxinus excelsior} occurring locally. The groundflora includes {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Oxalis acetosa, Fragaria vesca} and {\it Moehringia trinervia}. At the southern end {\it Fraxinus excelsior} is the dominant canopy species with {\it Betula pendula, Populus tremula, Quercus} spp. and a denser understorey including {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Further south is an area of continuous scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ulex gallii} with {\it Veronica beccabunga, Cirsium palustre, Carex ovalis, Juncus bufonius} and {\it J. conglomeratus} along the stream. At the northernmost end there is an area of developing {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Populus tremula} woodland (planted?). Scattered {\it Populus tremula} above {\it Pteridium aquilinum} continues along the northern boundary behind the property there.

There is also a small area of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} woodland at the north-eastern end of the common with some {\it Betula pendula} and the groundflora species {\it Lapsana communis, Deschampsia cespitosa, Oxalis acetosella, Fragaria vesca, Moehringia trinervia, Viola} sp. and the bryophytes {\it Thuidium tamariscinum} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. This grades into continuous scrub to the west of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix capraea, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ilex aquifolium} with {\it Geranium robertianum, Holcus} sp. and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} beneath. There is a line of mature {\it Quercus} spp. along this part of the boundary. 

There is a sizeable and seasonal pond at the southern end of the common which was almost dry at the time of the site visit. It supported a carpet of {\it Eleocharis palustris} with some {\it Galium palustre}. Other species recorded from the pond and immediate area include {\it Pedicularis sylvatica, Lythrum portula} and the nationally scarce* {\it Pilularia globulifera} at the only Herefordshire location. The latter species is on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. There is a spring at SO28004285 supporting {\it Ranunculus flammula, Veronica beccabunga, Triglochin palustris, Carex panicea, Apium nodiflorum, Mentha aquatica, Juncus effusus, J. articulatus, J. bufonius, Carex ovalis} and {\it Glyceria fluitans}. Additional wetland/aquatic species recorded during the 1990 Herefordshire Nature Trust survey include {\it Apium inundatum, Juncus bulbosus, Littorella uniflora, Montia fontana} ssp. {\it minor} and {\it Ranunculus peltatus}.

Additional species of interest recorded from the common in 1990 include {\it Achillea ptarmica, Agrostis canina, Alopecurus geniculatus, Aphanes microcarpa, Arenaria serpyllifolia, Briza media, Calluna vulgaris, Carex viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa, C. echinata, C. nigra, C. pilulifera, Danthonia decumbens, Erophila verna, Galium saxatile, Lathyrus montanus, Myosotis ramosissima, M. secunda, Polygala serpyllifolia, Sherardia arvensis} and {\it Thymus polytrichus}.

The majority of the common is surrounded by intact hedgerows (locally defunct) with species including {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa canina, Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Sorbus aucuparia, Quercus} spp. and locally {\it Alnus glutinosa}.

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

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by sheep at the time of the site visit and there was some visible bracken control by means of cutting. Grazing appeared concentrated on the leveller areas of grassland and may account for the semi-improved condition of the grassland. According to the 1995 Management Plan, cattle and horses occasionally graze the common and the grazing intensity varies throughout the year. The grazing rights permit a total of 821 sheep or 396 cows and 40 beasts or 801 colts and 68 ponies far in excess of what the common could support. If grazing is maintained at sufficient levels, this should help to control scrub and bracken encroachment. Some areas of grassland were heavily poached and locally tracks on the common were very rutted and wide with much bare ground where vehicles had deviated to avoid the ruts. The area of {\it Quercus} spp. woodland is fairly even aged (possibly planted) and with very sparse understorey and high grass content in the groundflora, an indication of it having been exposed to grazing. Pryor and Rickett Silviculture, 1993, suggested light thinning of the area to allow a more diverse age structure to develop. Some protection from grazing may be required to allow regeneration and an understorey to develop. Management plan recommendations for the common include the clearing of bracken where the underlying grassland is still intact and erosion control. There are remains of two pottery/lime kilns on the common. 

Little Mountain common was included in the 1996 Marches Commons Enhancement Project proposal made by Shropshire and Herefordshire Wildlife Trusts and English Nature. The commons included are all Key Wildlife Sites or SSSIs. Much of the management work is envisaged to be carried out by local farmers/commoners over a period of three years. The proposal also allows for site interpretation and marketing for tourism.


FAUNA:
Blue tit was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Haywood common is situated on the lower slopes of Hergest Ridge west of Kington. It has a generally south-easterly aspect with a small valley supporting a stream running close to the southern edge of the common. 

The vegetation largely comprises a semi-improved neutral sward with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Festuca rubra, Trifolium repens, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Lolium perenne} with occasional {\it Trifolium dubium, Rumex acetosa, Cerastium fontanum, Stellaria graminea, Agrostis} spp. and {\it Veronica chamedrys}. {\it Veronica officinalis} was present at very low frequency. There are a few scattered ornamental trees of {\it Tilia x vulgaris} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. 

At the eastern end is a small plantation of {\it Quercus cerris, Fagus sylvatica} and {\it F. sylvatica 'divertifolia'} with frequent {\it Poa trivialis} beneath and a small area with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub. There were also some young planted trees at this end of the common ({\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus} sp. and {\it Paulownia tomentosa} with scattered {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium vulgare} and {\it C. arvense} beneath and a patch of {\it Ulex europaeus}.

The stream (which was dry at the time of the visit) and the area to the south of it are fenced off from the rest of the common. This area supported continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, the eastern end with planted ornamental trees and the western end with scattered {\it Corylus avellana, Quercus robur, Sorbus aucuparia, Salix capraea, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa canina, Crataegus monogyna} and some conifers and {\it Castanea sativa} seeding in from the adjacent plantation.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep (not at time of visit) and is securely fenced with a cattle grid at the eastern end. Some {\it Urtica dioica} had been treated. There has been quite a bit of ornamantal planting on the common. The area south of the stream (fenced off from the rest of the common) was little managed, some of the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} had been cut back beneath the trees. The scattered bracken at the eastern end had also been cut and some of the {\it Ulex europaeus} also cleared.


VEG:
Pigmore common lies adjacent to Tippet's Brook to the south of the village of Eardisland. The common was fenced off from the road with electric fencing and only surveyed from the roadside. It supports a damp semi-improved (possibly unimproved) neutral grassland of frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Iris pseudacorus} and occasional {\it Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium pratensis, T. repens, Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Rumex acetosa, R. crispus, Cirsium palustre, Lolium perenne, Leontodon autumnalis, Deschampsia cespitosa, Dactylis glomerata, Filipendula ulmaria, Centaurea nigra, Lotus corniculatus, Carex hirta, Lathyrus pratensis, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Achillea millefolium}. {\it Juncus inflexus, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} were locally frequent. {\it Agrimonia eupatorium} also occurred locally. The road verges supported ranker grassland with {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Filipendula ulmaria, Trifolium repens, Cerastium fontanum, Ranunculus repens, Heracleum sphondylium, Pulicaria dysenterica, Angelica sylvestris, Urtica dioica} and {\it Solanum dulcamara} with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. away from the cut edges. Further survey of this area is recommended.

A line of {\it Alnus glutinosa} borders Tippet's Brook with a few {\it Salix fragilis} on the eastern end of the common. The hedgerow along the northern edge is species-rich with {\it Ulmus glabra, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Quercus robur, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. Ancient/species-rich hedgerows are one of the key habitats of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The hedgerow to the west was species-poor with {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Salix fragilis}. The drains along the east and west boundaries were dry.

MANAGE:
Pigmore common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Weobley Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The common was fenced with electric fencing and there had been cattle on the common. The road verges are kept cut back.


FAUNA:
Swallow and blackbird were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Spearmarsh is situated in the village of Almeley and slopes gently to the south. The majority of the area supports amenity grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Trifolium repens} and {\it Bellis perennis} and occasional {\it Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Holcus lanatus}. {\it Dactylis glomerata, Rumex crispus, Trifolium pratense} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} occur locally. Locally the grassland is a coarser semi-improved type with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Rumex crispus}.

There are scattered plantings of varying ages of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer pseudoplatanus, Tilia x vulgaris, Betula pendula} and {\it Prunus} sp. on the common and locally some conifers. There is a large {\it Salix x chrysocoma} south of the school with {\it Glechoma hederacea, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica} beneath.

MANAGE:
Spearmarsh is regulated by a scheme made by the former Weobley Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The majority of the common is regularly mown, part as a cricket pitch. Evidently the grazing rights are no longer exercised. There are benches, picnic tables and litter bins on the common. There is continuing ornamental planting on the common. The village hall stands on the common.


FAUNA:
Chiffchaff was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Hopley's green is one of a number of small commons around Almeley. It suports an area of unimproved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Festuca rubra, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Ranunculus acris} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Trifolium pratensis, Stellaria graminea, Conopodium majus, Rumex acetosa, Centaurea nigra, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata, Cerastium fontanum, Geranium dissectum, Pimpinella saxifraga, Lotus corniculatus, Holcus lantus, Cynosurus cristatus, Trisetum flavescens} and locally {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}. The eastern end of the common supports a ranker and less species-rich sward with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Cirsium arvense, Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. together with occasional species from amongst those associated with the unimproved grassland. There is a pond at the north-western end, overgrown with {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}.

The common is bordered along the northern side by an encroaching hedgerow of {\it Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Prunus padus, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. The stream is largely enclosed within a similar encroaching hedgerow with some {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium} at the base. There is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation along the line of the stream consisting of {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

MANAGE:
Hopley's Green is regulated by a scheme made by the former Weobley Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The grassland is generally in fairly good condition and may still be traditionally managed as a hay meadow. It had not been cut at the time of the site visit. Lowland hay meadows are one of the key habitats of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

The eastern end was ranker but possibly also unimproved with a number of the species from the unimproved grassland present. The diversity of this area would probably improve with appropriate management. 

Part of the encroaching hedgerow along the northern boundary of the common had been cleared but with resprouting {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. 

The section of the stream to the north of the road at the north-western end of the common had been recently cleaned. The pond would benefit from being cleared providing an additional important habitat. There was some dumped gravel on the common.


VEG:
Tan House Green slopes gently southwards and is crossed by a stream. It is largely wooded. 

North of the minor road the canopy is of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with understorey species {\it Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa, Fraxinus excelsior} and a groundflora of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Anthriscus sylvestris, Stellaria holostea, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Silene dioica, Geum urbanum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Stachys sylvatica, Geranium robertianum, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

The canopy of the southern section is predominantly {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. The understorey and groundflora are similar to those described above with the addition of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} in the understorey and {\it Circaea lutetiana} and {\it Potentilla sterilis} in the groundflora. Where the canopy is more open, {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica} occur.

There is a small area of improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with frequent {\it Plantago major} at the western end of the common.

MANAGE:
Tan House Green is regulated by a scheme made by the former Weobley Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. There was little evidence of any management on the common except for the clearing of a strip of woodland beneath overhead cables on the southern part of the common. The woodland had a good structure and there was some regeneration occurring.


VEG:
Logaston common is situated at the head of the Letton Lake valley which feeds into the River Wye. The common largely comprises semi-improved neutral grassland and continuous scrub. The grassland is composed of frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Agrostis stolonifera, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with occasional {\it Trifolium pratense, Heracleum sphondylium, Plantago lanceolata, Lotus corniculatus, Festuca rubra, Achillea millefolium, Tragopogon pratensis, Cirsium arvense, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Ranunculus repens}. {\it Stellaria graminea} and {\it Conopodium majus} are locally frequent and {\it Centaurea nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} locally occasional. 

The continuous scrub is predominantly {\it Prunus spinosa} with {\it Alnus glutinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Humulus lupulus} and {\it Cornus sanguinea}. Amongst the scrub is a small area of {\it Corylus avellana} coppice with some {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus padus} and a groundflora of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Urtica dioica, Geranium robertianum, Viola} sp. and {\it Hedera helix}.

There is a small area dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} at the south-eastern end of the common.

MANAGE:
Logaston common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Weobley Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The grassland was quite rank, the ranker areas being less diverse. According to one of the locals, a couple of horses are sometimes grazed on the common. He himself no longer exercised his common rights as it wasn't worth his while and there is no cattle grid to keep stock on the common. His brother had cleared an area of {\it Prunus spinosa} scrub but it was resprouting. A large proportion of the common is now continuous scrub with some scattered scrub amongst the grassland. Some of the scrub should be retained (especially the {\it Corylus avellana} coppice) but a large amount of the {\it Prunus spinosa} could be removed. The coarser grasses could soon be discouraged with cutting and grazing to improve the grazing quality which would probably also increase the botanical quality. There are a number of tracks crossing the common to properties and fields.


FAUNA:
Rabbit and wood warbler were recorded during the site visit. There are active anthills on the common.

VEG:
Nicholas common is situated in the Wye valley at Winfornton. The land slopes gently to the north. The majority of the grassland is dominated by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Centaurea nigra} (locally frequent), {\it Chaerophyllum temulum, Vicia sativa, Ranunculus acris, Lotus corniculatus, Cerastium fontanum, Trifolium pratense, Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Festuca rubra, Veronica chamaedrys, Anthriscus sylvestris, Conopodium majus, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Scattered scrub occurs through much of the grassland comprising {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Quercus robur}. There are locally marshy areas amongst the grassland with locally dominant {\it Juncus effusus}, frequent to abundant {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and occasional {\it Lotus pedunculatus, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Potentilla erecta, Carex ovalis?, C. hirta, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Stellaria graminea} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}. Other areas support locally frequent {\it Juncus articulatus} with occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Potentilla anserina} and locally {\it Silaum silaus}. There is also a dried up pond dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with occasional {\it Lythrum salicaria}. 

There are a few pockets of continuous scrub on the common. At the southern end adjacent to the road the scrub comprises {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with some {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Urtica dioica, Arrhenatherum elatius, Galium aparine, Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} beneath. Around the stream crossing the northern end of the common is an area of {\it Prunus spinosa, Quercus robur, Alnus glutinosa, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Salix cinerea} scrub with some {\it Carex remota} in the groundflora. There is also some {\it Typha latifolia, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Glyceria} sp. here along the roadside. On the opposite side of the road are young planted trees of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Picea abies?} behind a bank of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Galium aparine}. The area of scrub adjacent to the pond consisted of {\it Salix capraea, Fraxinus excelsior, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

At the north-western end of the common the grassland is less rank and free from scrub with locally abundant {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}, frequent to abundant {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Stellaria graminea, Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium repens, Rumex acetosa, Cirsium arvense, Potentilla erecta, Achillea millefolium, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Leontodon autumnalis} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. There are active anthills in this area supporting {\it Pilosella officinalis, Galium saxatile} and {\it Luzula} sp. {\it Carex ovalis?} is locally frequent. 

The common is bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix capraea} locally with {\it Euonymus europaeus} and {\it Malus domestica}.

MANAGE:
A large proportion of the common appeared largely unmanaged and was becoming encroached with scrub. The north-western end of the common was temporarily fenced and had been grazed. There was also some localised grazing to the south-east. Areas bordering the road and in front of properties were variously mown and the area to the north of the stream at the north-eastern end was being managed as a garden. A small area to the north east had also been fenced and planted with young trees.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, great tit and speckled wood butterfly were recorded during the site visit. The butterflies small skipper, wood, large, small and green-veined whites, red admiral, painted lady, small tortoiseshell, peacock, high brown, dark green and silver-washed fritillaries, gatekeeper, meadow brown, speckled wood and ringlet have been recorded from Leinthall common and the adjoining Yatton Hill (CL 143) by the Butterfly Conservation Society (1990-1997). High brown fritillary is included on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action plan.

VEG:
Leinthall common is situated on a steep north-west facing slope. It is bordered to the south-east by plantation woodland and the National Trust owned Croft Ambrey Iron Age hill fort and is continuous with Yatton Hill (CL143) to the west and the National Trust owned Bircher Common to the east. 

The lower slopes of the north-eastern half of the common support semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula}. Locally {\it Quercus robur} or {\it Fraxinus excelsior} are dominant. The understorey consists of frequent {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it A. campestre} and the groundflora of frequent {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Bromopsis ramosa, Deschampsia cespitosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasional {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Oxalis acetosella, Blechnum spicant, Geranium robertianum, Viola} sp. and {\it Potentilla sterilis}. {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides} and {\it Polypodium} sp. were also recorded.

The woodland gives way to continuous scrub further up the slope with pockets of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Scrub species include {\it Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. 

The south-western end of the common supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub.

The following species were recorded amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub areas and along the paths: {\it Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Stellaria graminea, Ranunculus repens, Cynosurus cristatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Lolium perenne, Lathyrus pratensis, Prunella vulgaris, Achillea millefolium, Veronica chamaedrys, Potentilla sterilis} and the bryophytes {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Thuidium tamariscinum, Pseudoscleropodium purum} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. A large patch of {\it Colchicum autumnale} was recorded at SO 44206705.

MANAGE:
Leinthall common was included in the 1996 Marches Commons Enhancement Project proposal made by Shropshire and Herefordshire Wildlife Trusts and English Nature. The commons included are all Key Wildlife Sites or SSSIs. Much of the management work is envisaged to be carried out by local farmers/commoners over a period of three years. The proposal also allows for site interpretation and marketing for tourism. The common is apparently unmanaged and will rapidly become scrubbed over in succession to woodland.


FAUNA:
Buzzard, raven, starling, blue tit, robin, nuthatch, blackbird, great tit and yellowhammer were recorded during the site visit. Snipe and wheatear also visit the common (pers. comm. local resident). According to a brief description of the common (Anthea Brian, 1995) a good list of butterflies and about 50 species of bird have been recorded from the common (no details given). Specifically mentioned are the declining skylark which breeds on the common and the dormouse which is known to occur on the woodland edges of the common. Both of these species are listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The butterflies small and large skipper, small and green-veined whites, small copper, common blue, holly blue, red admiral, small tortoiseshell, peacock, comma, silver-washed fritillary, speckled wood, gatekeeper, meadow brown and ringlet have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Westhope Hill Common occupies the hill top and part of the steep north-facing slope. The majority of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Lolium perenne} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Prunella vulgaris, Festuca rubra, Leontodon} spp. and {\it Cirsium arvense}. {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Juncus inflexus} occur locally and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Ulex europaeus} occur throughout. The bryophytes {\it Eurynchium praelongum, Pseudoscleropodium purum} and {\it Calliergon cuspidatum} were also recorded. The south-eastern spur supports improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with scattered {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

Along the western edge of the common and a few other pockets are a few areas of semi-improved acid grassland generally also with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. This grassland comprises frequent {\it Festuca ovina, Galium saxatile} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with occasional {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Trifolium repens, Potentilla erecta, Luzula} sp. and {\it Leontodon autumnalis}. {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} are locally frequent and {\it Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Linum catharticum, Cirsium palustre, Digitalis purpurea, Veronica chamaedrys, Aphanes arvensis, Conopodium majus} and {\it Lolium perenne} locally occasional. The bryophytes {\it Psedoscleropodium purum} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} were also recorded.

The northern slopes of the common support broadleaved woodland comprising {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Quercus petraea, Betula pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus, Populus tremula} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. The understorey consists of {\it Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Cornus sanguinea, Acer pseudoplatanus, Malus sylvestris, Pyrus communis, Prunus domestica, Rosa} sp. and {\it Ulex europaeus} and the groundflora frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Geum urbanum, Pteridium aquilinum, Clematis vitalba, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Fragaria vesca, Veronica montana, Rumex sanguineus, Allium ursinum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Mercurialis perennis, Festuca gigantea, Circaea lutetiana, Geranium robertianum, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Viola} sp. The bryophyte {\it Thuidium tamariscinum} was also recorded. A limestone outcrop within the woodland area has been previously recorded with calcareous grassland dominated by {\it Brachypodium pinnatum} with {\it Orchis mascula} and {\it Daphne laureola}. 

The woodland gives way to semi-improved neutral grassland below with some scattered scrub and an area of continuous scrub. The scrub comprises {\it Prunus avium, Salix capraea, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The grassland comprises frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Cardamine pratensis, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Veronica chamaedrys, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Lotus corniculatus}. {\it Trifolium pratense, Odontites vernus, Achillea millefolium, Rumex crispus, Juncus inflexus, Leontodon} spp. and {\it Centaurea nigra} are locally occasional and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} is locally frequent with occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Festuca rubra} and {\it Torilis japonica}. {\it Chamerion angustifolium} is locally dominant. There is a small damp area on the edge of the woodland at SO 471529 with {\it Juncus inflexus} and a few spikes of {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}. {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum} and {\it Platanthera chlorantha} have also been recorded in this area (A. Brian, 1995). 

Above the woodland is an area of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Rosa canina} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. {\it Colchicum autumnale} was recorded at the edge of ths area at SO 470524. The latter species has also been recorded from two other locations on the common (SO 46855240 and SO 469519 - A. Brian, 1995).

At SO 469523 is a small area of marshy grassland around a spring with frequent {\it Juncus effusus}, locally frequent {\it Eleocharis palustre}, occasional {\it Juncus inflexus} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}. This area is surrounded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered mixed scrub. There is a dried up pond at SO467521 with some {\it Eleocharis palustre} and {\it Juncus effusus}. {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum} was recorded near here in a previous survey. A second pond at SO 470529 was also noted in a previous survey.

Approximately 180 species of flowering plants have been recorded from the common since 1984 (A. Brian and local residents). Additional species of interest include two nationally rare* species {\it Isatis tinctoria} and {\it Mentha pulegium}, the nationally scarce** {\it Potentilla neumanniana} (also a very unlikely record for {\it P. crantzii}) and {\it Anemone nemorosa, Centaureum erythraea, Dactylorhiza praetermissa?, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Filipendula ulmaria, Geranium columbinum, Lathyrus pratensis, Anchusa arvensis, Moehringia trinervia, Narcissus pseudonarcissus, Paris quadrifolia, Polygala vulgaris, Primula vulgaris, Ranunculus auricomus, R. flammula, Saponaria officinalis, Serratula tinctoria, Thymus polytrichus, Verbena officinalis, Viscum album} and a number of calcicoles {\it Asperula cynanchica, Briza media, Carduus nutans, Carex flacca, Geranium sylvaticum, Pastinaca sativa, Sanguisorba minor, Primula veris, Juniperus communis} and {\it Viburnum lantana}. {\it Mentha pulegium} is listed on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. There is also a highly unlikely record for {\it Rubia peregrina} and records for {\it Galanthus nivalis} and {\it Leucojum aestivum} (the latter undoubtedly an introduction).

* Nationally rare species are those occuring in 15 or fewer 10km squares in Britain.

** 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:
The common is grazed all year round and was being grazed by sheep at the time of the site visit. There is an active commoners association (Westhope Common Rights Association). About 16 ha of the common were ploughed during the war to grow potatoes and at least one farmer is known to have fertilized the land near his farm. This probably partly accounts for the predominance of semi-improved neutral grassland in addition to the heavy grazing. If grazing was relaxed the bracken and scrub already present on the common would probably spread. Populations of the scarcer plants such as the orchids, {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum} and {\it Colchicum autumnale} should be monitored and conserved and the records for the nationally scarce and rare species need verifying and the appropriate action taken to conserve them. A number of calcicolous species were previously recorded from the common. The area where these were recorded may have been encroached on by the woodland. Damage from driving vehicles across the common was also evident affecting quite wide areas of grassland. The tracks through the woodland at the northern end of the common were deeply rutted. There was some dumped rubble and old tarmac near Broomwell on the eastern side of the common. There is evidence of past quarrying along the north-western edge of the common. 

Westhope common was included in the 1996 Marches Commons Enhancement Project proposal made by Shropshire and Herefordshire Wildlife Trusts and English Nature. The commons included are all Key Wildlife Sites or SSSIs. Much of the management work is envisaged to be carried out by local farmers/commoners over a period of three years. The proposal also allows for site interpretation and marketing for tourism.


FAUNA:
Mole, mistle thrush, blackbird, wood warbler, magpie, partridge, swallow, buzzard, pied wagtail, skylark, raven and small heath butterfly were recorded during the site visit. Skylark is on the short list of globally threatened/ declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Additional birds recorded from the common include meadow pipit, whinchat, wheatear and yellowhammer. The trees on the lower northern slopes support tree pipit, tawny owl and green woodpecker (NT survey, 1984). There are also records for lapwing, woodcock, cuckoo, little owl, nuthatch, redstart, whitethroat, siskin, linnet and redpoll (Herefordshire Ornithological Club and Golf Course Greensman in NT survey report, 1984). Dotterel was recorded on passage in 1983 and 1985 and in winter the common attracts visiting flocks of fieldfare and redwing (J. Bromley in Kington and District Botany and Birds). The common also supports a good population of brown hare which is listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Other species observed on the golf course include slow worm, adder, stoat, fox, rabbit and badger (Golf Course Greensman in NT report). 

A total of 47 species of invertebrate have been recorded from the common including the local dor beetles {\it Geoptrupes vernalis} and {\it Typhaeus typhoeus}, nest mounds of the ant {\it Lasius flavus} and the rare woodlouse {\it Armadillidium pulchellum} (the only county record, NT Biological survey, 1984). Small skipper, peacock and ringlet butterflies were recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Bradnor hill is one of a group of five hilltop commons on the Welsh border north of Kington. It is famous for supporting the highest golf course in Europe rising to 391m. The lower slopes of the common support continuous bracken locally with small pockets of unimproved and semi-improved acid and neutral grassland. The golf course lies on the upper slopes supporting unimproved to semi-improved acid grassland on the fairways fringed with similar grassland with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and interspersed with continuous bracken. Locally there is scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ulex gallii, U. europaeus} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. There are a few areas of {\it Ulex gallii} dwarf shrub heath or dry heath/acid grassland mosaic locally becoming invaded with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and a little {\it Ulex europaeus} continuous scrub. 

The unimproved acid grassland consists of {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Rumex acetosella, Veronica officinale, Campanula rotundifolia, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Luzula} sp. and {\it Carex} sp. Bryophytes such as {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum} and species of {\it Dicranum, Rhytidiadelphus} and {\it Polytrichum} are locally frequent as are {\it Aira praecox, Vulpia bromoides} and {\it Pilosella officinarum}. Additional species recorded from the areas of grassland and amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} include {\it Aphanes arvensis, Digitalis purpurea, Oxalis acetosella, Veronica chamaedrys, Cerastium fontanum, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Viola} sp., {\it Spergula} sp. Many {\it Scleroderma} sp. fungi were also recorded.

At the northern end of the common are some scattered trees of {\it Prunus avium} and {\it Quercus} sp. There has been some tree planting on and around the golf course largely of exotic species such as {\it Quercus rubra, Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

There is a quarry at the south-eastern end of the common which is a geological SSSI revealing a succession of upper Ludlow to upper Downtonian rocks from the Silurian Period. Several species of primitive fossil fish have been recorded here. The quarry is largely covered wuth {\it Ulex gallii} with some {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and some {\it Urtica dioica} on the quarry floor. 

A couple of springs arise along the southern edge of the common, the eastern one south of the club house supporting {\it Veronica beccabunga, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Stellaria} sp. and the one to the north of Wallstych Farm surrounded by scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees.

The local species {\it Moenchia erecta} and {\it Ornithopus perpusillus} occur on the common near Wallstych farm (NT 1984 and J.Bromley).

MANAGE:
The common is moderately grazed by sheep with parts of the golf course mown. There appears to have been some control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, the area of grassland on the hill top having been extended quite significantly. There has been some encroachment of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} on other parts of the common such as the areas of {\it Ulex gallii} dry heath/acid grassland mosaic. {\it Ulex gallii} is encroaching on the quarry exposure which is of national importance and an SSSI. An area was noted at SO285586 during the NT survey in 1984 where the top soil had been removed (assumed for golf course repair) and this area was still evident and topsoil still being removed with some stripped and relaid turf noted. There has been some planting of ornamental trees on the common and it was recommended in the NT report that any further planting was of more appropriate native species and preferably to encourage natural regeneration around the edges of the common instead, the scattered trees at the northern end of the comon having been noted of being of importance for birdlife. A small area of the common had been incorporated into a field under grass ley cultivation.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit although there were a number of anthills.

VEG:
Adleymoor common is a low-lying area of common land between the river Redlake (a tributary of the river Clun) and a stream on the Herefordshire/Shropshire border. The grassland is a semi-improved neutral to acid sward (locally unimproved) comprising frequent tussocks of {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} with frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Taraxacum officinale, Lolium perenne, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile, Achillea millefolium, Potentilla erecta, Campanula rotundifolia, Agrostis stolonifera, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosella} and less frequently {\it Pilosella officinarum, Cardamine pratensis, Carex panicea, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Luzula} sp. {\it Agrostis canina} occurs locally. {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} is more frequent in the damper areas with {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. There is some {\it Ulex} sp. on the common. The grassland has been mapped as semi-improved acid grassland but is in fact intermediate between acid and neutral types, probably due to the influence of a high water table, and is probably locally unimproved. 

{\it Crataegus monogyna, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix fragilis} occur along the river bank to the south and also along the stream to the north. {\it Apium nodiflorum, Veronica beccabunga, Oenanthe croccata, Lemna} sp. and {\it Callitriche} sp. were recorded from the stream to the north. 

In general the hedgerows are species-poor and dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} locally with {\it Alnus glutinosa, Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa, Ulmus} sp. and {\it Salix capraea}.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by 3 young cattle and 3 ponies at the time of the site visit. There are no registered rights of pasture for ponies. Sheep had also been grazing the common. Parts of the common are probably unimproved and only mapped as semi-improved due to the grassland being an intermediate type (showing both acid and neutral tendencies) probably as a result of the high water table. The tussocky nature of the grassland may form an important habitat for invertebrates.


VEG:
This common includes three separate pieces of land on the steep southern slopes of Westhope Hill. The northernmost portion supports small areas of semi-improved neutral grassland and continuous bracken with the southern end supporting semi-natural broadleaved {\it Fraxinus excelsior} woodland with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Prunus padus, P. avium} and {\it Salix cinerea} and a groundflora of {\it Moehringia trinervia, Hedera helix, Dryopteris filix-mas, Pteridium aquilinum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Urtica dioica, Alliaria petiolata, Phyllitis scolopendrium} and locally {\it Mercurialis perennis} continuing northwards along the roadside with some {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

The central portion consists of a similar semi-natural broadleaved woodland to that described above with some {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} in the understorey, frequent {\it Clematis vitalba} and {\it Geranium robertianum, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Arum maculatum} in addition in the groundflora.

The southernmost section supports continuous scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus domestica, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur, Ulmus glabra} and {\it Sambucus nigra}, abundant {\it Clematis vitalba} and with {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Urtica dioica, Hedera helix, Tamus communis, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Mercurialis perennis} beneath. {\it Sison amomum, Pentaglottis sempervirens, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Verbascum thapsus} were recorded along the path side.

MANAGE:
A small area at the northern end of the northern portion is mown. The remainder appears largely unmanaged.


VEG:
Birley Hill is situated on the steep western slopes of Westhope Hill, north-west of Hereford. There was no public access to the common and it was only viewed from a distance. The vegetation largely appeared to comprise broadleaved woodland which, at the southern end, had a canopy of predominantly {\it Quercus} sp. with {\it Betula pendula} and occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. There was an area of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub in the centre on the upper slopes. The hill top could not be seen. 

Westhope Wood which is continuous with Birley Hill had a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Betula pendula}, an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Acer campestre} and a rich groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Mercurialis perennis, Anemone nemorosa, Carex sylvatica, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Arum maculatum, Oxalis acetosella, Clematis vitalba, Galium odoratum, Geum urbanum, Circaea lutetiana, Primula vulgaris, Sanicula europaea, Millium effusum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Alliaria petiolata, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Viola} sp.

MANAGE:
No management observations could be made.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, jay and nuthatch were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Poor's wood is predominantly a strip of semi-natural broadleaved woodland along a minor road near Wigmore in the north-west of the county adjacent to a Forestry Commission plantation. The canopy comprises frequent {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus petraea} with occasional {\it Salix cinerea, Betula pendula, Acer campestre} and {\it Tilia} sp. Understorey species recorded were {\it Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Fraxinus excelsior, Ribes rubrum, Cornus sanguinea, Rosa} sp. and {\it Ulmus glabra}. The woodland supports a rich groundflora of frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Hedera helix, Bromopsis ramosa}, occasional {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Galium odoratum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Colchicum autumnale, Melica uniflora, Geum urbanum, Lonicera periclymenum, Circaea lutetiana, Mercurialis perennis, Geranium robertianum, Glechoma hederacea, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The following species were also recorded; {\it Tamus communis, Platanthera chlorantha?, Fragaria vesca, Primula veris, Solidago virgaurea, Lapsana communis, Carex sylvatica?, Luzula sylvatica, Scrophularia nodosa, Arum maculatum, Stachys officinalis, Viola} sp. and {\it Cyclamen} sp. and the bryophytes {\it Brachythecium rutabulum} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. {\it Urtica dioica, Aegopodium podagraria, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Equisetum arvense} were recorded at the north-eastern end. Two ancient {\it Quercus} sp. were noted just to the north of the common towards the western end.

The common narrows in to the road at the western end bordered by verges varying from improved to semi-improved neutral grassland. Species recorded include {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Agrimonia eupatorium, Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Pteridium aquilinum, Chamerion angustifolium, Centaurea nigra, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Heracleum sphondylium, Vicia cracca, V. sativa, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia cespitosa, Plantago major, Potentilla anserina, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. This section is bordered by species-rich? hedgerows of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Corylus avellana} with {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, A. campestre, Tamus communis, Lonicera periclymenum, Cornus sanguinea, Sambucus nigra, Quercus} sp. and {\it Rosa} sp.

MANAGE:
The woodland is apparently unmanaged but is very diverse and shows some natural regeneration. A couple of access tracks to the FC plantation cross the common. The road verges at the western end of the common are kept cut back. Some dumped soil was noted on the common.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, redstart and small white butterfly were recorded during the site visit. A raven was heard nearby.

VEG:
Alt Common is situated on a steep west facing slope in west Herefordshire. The main habitats supported by the common are continuous bracken and scattered scrub with areas of continuous scrub on the northern half of the common and semi-natural broadleaved woodland to the south. Scrub species recorded include {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Salix cinerea, Ulex gallii, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Rosa} sp. and a few {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula} trees. There was little groundflora beneath the continuous scrub and bracken but {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Poa nemoralis, Stachys officinale, Viola} sp. and {\it Oxalis acetosella} were recorded. 

The woodland had a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula, Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Quercus petraea?} and an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium, Salix cinerea, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. The groundflora included {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Pteridium aquilinum, Geranium robertianum, Stellaria holostea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Stachys officinalis, Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Viola} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. locally abundant {\it Mercurialis perennis} and the bryophytes {\it Thuidium tamariscinum} and {\it Pleurozium schreberi}. {\it Clinopodium vulgare, Lapsana communis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Brachypodium sylvaticum} and {\it Cruciata laevipes} were recorded along the roadside.

At the far northern end of the common is a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Cynosurus cristatus, Trifolium repens}, occasional {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and local {\it Linum catharticum, Pimpinella saxifraga, Pedicularis sylvatica, Prunella vulgaris} and {\it Juncus bufonius}. A small springline crosses this area with {\it Juncus articulatus, J. conglomeratus} and {\it Cirsium palustre}. 

The northern end of the common is bordered by a line of {\it Carpinus betulus}. Elsewhere there are {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Quercus petraea} scattered along the boundary and locally intact hedgerows.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by a few sheep at the time of the site visit although there can be little grazing value left on the common, the unwooded common being largely encroached with dense bracken and scrub. The woodland is dominated by fairly dense young trees.


FAUNA:
Buzzard was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Bullen's Bank comprises a plateau area and parts of the north and south facing slopes of a hill in west Herefordshire. There is no public access to this common which was only viewed from the nearby minor road and public footpath to Upper Broadmeadow Farm. 

From the map, the hilltop area appears to form part of a larger field. This area had been cut for hay at the time of the site visit. The lower slopes at the eastern end of the common also supported grassland, which appeared to be improved with abundant {\it Lolium perenne} and scattered {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}. 

The western end of the common supports broadleaved woodland with {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula, Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} being recorded. It is probably quite similar to the woodland found on the nearby Alt common (CL74). The map suggests that the southern end of the wooded area has been incorporated into a field. 

The remainder of the common supports continuous bracken with scattered {\it Ulex gallii?}. 

(Between the woodland and the drain to the northwest of the common was an apparently rich area of meadow with {\it Leucanthemum vulgare, Briza media, Linum catharticum} and {\it Centarurea nigra} being noted.)

MANAGE:
The grassland areas had apparently been improved and were being managed for hay and pasture (there are only pasture rights on this common). The remainder of the common is probably unmanaged. There is internal fencing on the common.


VEG:
This common forms an additional part of Wapley Common (CL152) on a steep north-facing bank at the edge of the Lugg valley in the north-west of the county. It supports continuous scrub similar to that found on CL152 comprising {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa} sp. and {\it Corylus avellana} with a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Mercurialis perennis, Arum maculatum} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There are a few small pockets of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} amongst the scrub.

MANAGE:
The common appears to be unmanaged. There is a small bare area where there had been a bonfire and some parked and dumped cars on the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit, but see under the entry for Westhope Common (CL33).

VEG:
This common forms an additional part of Westhope common (CL33) on a gentle, south-facing slope. It supports semi-improved acid grassland as described for CL33, locally with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Juncus conglomeratus}. Lowland dry acid grassland is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The common is bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

MANAGE:
See under the entry for CL33 for the management of the common. Although there are no registered rights on this common it is continuous with CL33 along with which it is grazed.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel was recorded during the site visit. Curlew and snipe are known to visit the area (A. Brian, 1986). Duck (mallard?) and kingfisher used to frequent the pond (local resident).

VEG:
Maund Common is situated in a tributary valley to the River Lugg near Bodenham. The main botanical interest is in the area of unimproved neutral grassland. This comprises frequent {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Holcus lanatus, Festuca pratensis, Lathyrus pratensis, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus repens}, occasional {\it Vicia sativa, Ranunculus acris, Filipendula ulmaria, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Heracleum sphondylium, Juncus inflexus, Centaurea nigra, Achillea millefolium, Rumex crispus, Dactylis glomerata, Pulicaria dysenterica, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and local {\it Agrimonia eupatorium} and {\it Galium verum}. East of the road to Upper Maund common, the grassland is coarser with frequent to abundant {\it Festuca pratensis} and a lower frequency of herbs including the additional occasional species {\it Agrostis capillaris, Cirsium arvense, Hypochaeris radicata, Angelica sylvestris, Vicia cracca, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Equisetum arvense}. Along the north-western boundary are some {\it Salix fragilis} pollards with {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} beneath.

Adjacent to the A417 is an area of hard standing/gravel (a car park under construction?). There is also a small disturbed area of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. which has been planted with {\it Betula pendula, Fagus sylvatica 'purpurea'} and {\it Acer campestre}.

The semi-improved neutral grassland either side of the central scrub area consists of {\it Festuca pratensis, Lolium perenne, Agrostis capillaris, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Centaurea nigra, Trifolium pratense, Heracleum sphondylium, Ranunculus repens, Leontodon autumnalis, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis}. Along the roadside of the northern part is a ditch supporting {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. A small area in front of White House was temporarily fenced off for a horse with a lot of bare ground and {\it Rumex crispus}. 

The area of continuous scrub comprises {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa, Quercus} sp. with {\it Urtica dioica, Hedera helix} and locally {\it Mercurialis perennis} beneath. The pond was dry at the time of the site visit with a little {\it Apium nodiflorum} and bordered by {\it Salix fragilis}.

The southernmost end is bordered by a tall hedgerow of {\it Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa, Acer campestre, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Alnus glutinosa, Salix fragilis} and {\it Quercus} sp. which is encroaching on the common. The grassy track supports {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Lolium perenne, Phleum pratense, Filipendula ulmaria, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica}.

Additional species recorded from the common include {\it Caltha palustris, Cardamine pratensis, Leucanthemum vulgare, Eleocharis palustris, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Lotus corniculatus, L. pedunculatus, Odontites vernus, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Prunella vulgaris, Primula vulgaris, Rhinanthus minor, Scrophularia aquatica, Alchemilla} sp. and {\it Tragopogon pratensis} (A. Brian, 1986).

MANAGE:
The common was cut for hay by a local commoner until at least recent years. The verges at least continue to be cut and a few areas outside properties are regularly mown. The maintenance of the unimproved grassland requires continued management to maintain the species diversity and prevent a limited number of species becoming dominant in the absence of management. Unimproved lowland hay meadows are one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. A horse in a temporary enclosure had largely removed the vegetation there. No other parts were being grazed at the time of the site visit. The ditches had recently been cleaned out by the NRA and were described by one of the locals to have become 'weedy'. She also commented that the pond had been dry for four years since it was cleaned by the NRA and wondered whether they had damaged the base in the process. It would be of wildlife benfit to restore the pond. There had been a small amount of tree planting on the common adjacent to the road and there is some locallised scrub encroachment. There was some work being carried out along the north-western boundary (a pipeline being laid?) and an area of hardstanding laid adjacent to the A417 (for a car park/works machinery?).


FAUNA:
Mole activity and an abundance of crane flies were noted during the site visit.

VEG:
Brimfield common is a low-lying level area of common land at the edge of the Teme valley. The vegetation consists of a semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens, Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Prunella vulgaris, Lolium perenne, Bellis perennis, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Juncus inflexus, J. conglomeratus, Cirsium arvense, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla erecta, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Cerastium fontanum. Lolium perenne, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Bellis perennis} are locally frequent. {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Festuca ovina} and {\it Nardus stricta} also occur locally. There are a number of anthills on the common supporting species such as {\it Pilosella officinarum, Lotus corniculatus, Galium verum} and {\it Thymus polytrichus. Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Carex panicea} are locally frequent in damper areas where {\it Ranunculus flammula, Briza media, Carex hirta} and a few other carices were also recorded. A drainage ditch runs across the centre of the common with {\it Juncus inflexus, J. effusus, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Apium nodiflorum}.

There are two ponds on the common, that at grid reference SO518668 supports {\it Iris pseudacorus, Apium nodiflorum, Glyceria fluitans, Sparganium erectum, Lemna} sp. and a lot of algae. {\it Alnus glutinosa} fringes the pond. The second pond at SO516668 was dry at the time of the site visit but presumably seasonally wet with {\it Iris pseudacorus, Juncus effusus, Glyceria} sp., a blanket of {\it Eleocharis palustris, Potomogeton} sp., {\it Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Equisetum} sp.

The common is bordered by species-poor {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedges with {\it Corylus avellana, Ulmus procera} (some dead and dying specimens), {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur} and locally {\it Salix fragilis}. The hedges are defunct in places.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by sheep and a few cattle at the time of the site visit.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, great tit and ravens? feeding off dead sheep were recorded during the site visit. A buzzard was heard nearby.

VEG:
Wyson common is a low-lying area of common land at the edge of the Teme valley supporting semi-improved neutral grassland and an area of {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland. The grassland community is similar to that on the nearby Brimfield common although more improved to the east. There are frequent tussocks of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Cirsium arvense, C. vulgare} and {\it Urtica dioica}. Between the tussocks the grassland comprises {\it Agrostis capillaris, Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Trifolium repens} with occasional patches of {\it Juncus inflexus, J. effusus, J. conglomeratus} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. In the damper areas {\it Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Potentilla anserina} are frequent with some {\it Carex ovalis}. Anthills are frequent on the south western spur of the common again supporting {\it Pilosella officinarum, Thymus polytrichus, Galium verum}, lichens and bryophytes as on Brimfield common.

The area of woodland has a canopy of {\it Alnus glutinosa} with occasional {\it Salix fragilis} and an understorey of {\it Acer campestre, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rosa canina}. The groundflora comprises frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Carex remota} with occasional {\it Iris pseudacorus, Galium palustre, Agrostis stolonifera, Urtica dioica} (locally frequent) and {\it Geum urbanum}. {\it Angelica sylvestris, Cardamine pratensis, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} were also recorded.

As for Brimfield common, Wyson common is surrounded by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with {\it Alnus glutinosa} occurring locally.

MANAGE:
A similar regime as for Brimfield common with grazing by sheep and a few cattle. The woodland is open to the grazing stock and consequently is quite open in places. There was a manure heap near the gate at the eastern end of the common near Little Shortgrove.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, rabbit, the birds yellowhammer, chaffinch, tree creeper and green woodpecker and the butterflies speckled wood and peacock were recorded during the site visit. The additional butterflies small and large skipper, small, large and green-veined white, orange tip, common blue, painted lady, small tortoiseshell, comma, meadow brown and ringlet were recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Badley Wood common is situated on a south-facing slope dropping sharply to the Linceter Brook along the southern edge. The central area is fairly level.

The main habitat on the common is continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and scattered scrub of {\it Salix capraea, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus domestica, Sambucus nigra, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Prunus avium}. There are also various areas of woodland and scrub. 

Adjoining Badley wood at the northern end of the common is an area of developing woodland with a canopy of {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} grading into {\it F. excelsior} woodland with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. South of Summers Place at SO69605745 is an area of damp {\it Quercus robur} woodland with occasional {\it Salix fragilis, S. alba} and {\it S. capraea} with a groundflora dominated by {\it Urtica dioica}. West of here following a track to the road is a strip of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} woodland with occasional {\it Salix alba}, an understorey of {\it A. pseudoplatanus, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus domestica} and a groundflora of {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Dryopteris filix-mas, Urtica dioica} and locally {\it Cirsium palustre, Campanula trachelium} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. There were many brashings on the ground here. To the south is a strip of {\it Betula pendula} woodland with a groundflora with much {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

The areas of scrub comprise {\it Prunus domestica} (locally dominant), {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Sambucus nigra, Quercus robur} and {\it Prunus avium} with some {\it Urtica dioica, Glechoma hederacea, Circaea lutetiana} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} beneath. {\it Epipactis helleborine} was recorded at two locations on the common at SO69775765 and 19 flowering spikes at SO69505755.

There are two areas of unimproved acid grassland around Stone House near the southern edge of the common. The larger area supports a {\it Festuca ovina} dominated grassland with occasional {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta} with scattered {\it Prunus} spp. trees. The additional species {\it Ulex gallii, Stachys officinalis, Veronica officinalis, Polygala} sp. and {\it Pedicularis sylvatica} were recorded from the smaller area.

MANAGE:
The majority of the common is little managed and encroached with bracken and scrub. Paths through the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are mown. The areas of unimproved acid grassland around The Stone House are probably grazed as there were temporary fences in place but may locally be mown. Parts of the common along the eastern boundary have been 'gardened' with an avenue of {\it Acer} sp. and {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} along the track with mown semi-improved neutral grassland beneath. Some of the areas of woodland may have originated from planting. There was some dumped manure at the northern end of the common.


FAUNA:
Rabbits, the birds woodpigeon and green woodpecker and the butterflies speckled wood, gatekeeper and peacock were recorded during the site visit. 26 species of butterfly have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997 including clouded yellow, brimstone, green-veined white, orange tip, small copper, brown argus, common blue, holly blue, comma, small pearl-bordered, dark green and silver washed fritillary, marbled white, ringlet and small heath. Bringsty common is one of only three Herefordshire commons supporting both the nationally rare pearl-bordered and high brown fritillaries (Butterfly Conservation Society records) both of which are included in the short list of globally threatened/declining species in UK Biodiversity Action plan.

VEG:
Bringsty common is situated on a hill rising to 152 meters in the east of the county. The vegetation is dominated by continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and scattered scrub comprising {\it Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Prunus spinosa, Salix capraea} and {\it Corylus avellana}. There are also occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees some of which are pollards. There is an ancient {\it Quercus} sp. pollard at SO699541, the Gospel oak, and an ancient {\it Fraxinus excelsior} pollard at SO69505495.

Amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and along the path sides are pockets of generally semi-improved acid grassland (particularly the maintained recreation areas at SO698551 and SO704551). The grassland is characterised by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with species such as {\it Leontodon saxatilis, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Campanula rotundifolia, Leontodon autumnalis, Danthonia decumbens, Galium saxatile, Plantago lanceolata, Veronica chamaedrys, Potentilla erecta, Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Hypochaeris radicata}. The additional species {\it Dactylis glomerata, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Centaurea nigra} were present on the westernmost recreation area, {\it Pilosella aurantiaca} near the Gospel Oak and {\it Pilosella officinarum} and the bryophyte {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} on the cricket ground. There is a small area of apparently reseeded grassland adjacent to the cricket ground dominated by {\it Lolium perenne}. 

Along the roadside at the eastern end of the common are two rank areas; one supporting tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Chamerion angustifolium, Deschampsia cespitosa, Arrhenatherum elatius, Torilis japonica, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and the other {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland locally with tall ruderal species. A second small area of tall ruderal vegetation occurs along the southern boundary dominated by {\it Cirsium arvense}. 

There is an area of {\it Ulex gallii} heath at SO699546 and there is occasional {\it U. gallii} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} at SO697553.

There are also a few small pockets of woodland on the common, most notably a strip of {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} along the stream valley at the south-western end of the common. The understorey here comprises {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} and the groundflora {\it Geum urbanum, Circaea lutetiana, Geranium robertianum, Caltha palustris, Stellaria holostea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}. Narrower strips of {\it Alnus glutinosa} also occur further upstream and along the stream running for a short distance along the southern boundary with occasional {\it Salix fragilis} and locally {\it Populus tremula} with {\it Betula pendula}. At SO70355465 the {\it Alnus glutinosa} woodland has several pollarded {\it Salix} spp., with coppiced {\it Corylus avellana} beneath. Additional groundflora species recorded here include {\it Ranunculus repens, Veronica beccabunga} and {\it Rumex sanguineus}. This area grades into {\it Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus} sp. woodland with a {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} understorey with occasional {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} in the groundflora.  

At the eastern end of the common is a small area of {\it Betula pendula} woodland with occasional {\it Acer campestre}, an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and a groundflora of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with {\it Carex sylvatica} and {\it Iris foetidus}. 

Along the track at the northern edge of this end of the common is a small area of {\it Quercus petraea} woodland with some mature trees (originating from an old avenue?). Understorey species were {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Quercus petraea} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Hedera helix, Galeopsis tetrahit, Stachys sylvatica, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Lonicera periclymenum} were recorded in the groundflora. 

The final area of woodland is along the track leading south from the eastern end of the common comprising a canopy of {\it Quercus petraea, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}, an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and a groundflora of {\it Rumex sanguineus, Geum urbanum, Stachys sylvatica, Urtica dioica, Melica uniflora, Dryopteris filix-mas, Hedera helix, Stellaria holostea, Pteridium aquilinum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Alliaria petiolata}. 

There is a small area of planted {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Quercus} sp. and {\it Pinus} sp. around the triangulation point at SO698549.

MANAGE:
Bringsty common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Bromyard Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. It is largely encroached with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered scrub except for a few areas mown for recreational purposes and a couple of areas kept clear of {\it P. aquilinum} by local residents. The football pitch adjacent to the cricket ground has possibly been reseeded. Numerous paths cross the common which are maintained by mowing and several small areas outside properties are also regularly mown. There has been a limited amount of tree planting on the common such as around the triangulation point, and fruit and other ornamental trees adjacent to properties. It may be possible to increase the amount of {\it Calluna vulgaris} at the northern end of the common by appropriate management (a former area of heath?). 

The common is an important site for butterflies and there have been some management proposals by the Butterfly Conservation Society (grant aided by English Nature). The nationally rare pearl-bordered and high brown fritillaries that occur on the common require violets for egg-laying within fairly open bracken stands. Both species have been badly affected by abandonment and cessation of grazing and bracken control measures and are included in the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

There is an area of hardstanding outside Park Cottage at the western end of the common and some dumped tarmac waste. There was also some dumping of garden waste, some dumped rubble at the southern end of the common, a long dumped vehicle near properties on the southern boundary and a couple of dumped refuse bags on the cricket ground which had been reported to the County Council.


FAUNA:
Mole, rabbit, the birds crow, magpie, yellowhammer, kestrel, house martin, buzzard and green woodpecker and the butterflies small tortoiseshell, speckled wood, meadow brown, marbled white, common blue, small skipper and gatekeeper were recorded during the site visit. The additional butterflies large skipper, small, large and green-veined white, orange tip, small copper, red admiral, painted lady, peacock and ringlet have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Bromyard Downs is situated on a hillside with a west to southerly aspect overlooking Bromyard and the River Frome valley. The Downs consist of two contrasting areas of continuous bracken with scattered scrub and semi-improved neutral grassland. The grassland comprises frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum} with locally frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and occasional {\it Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Cerastium fontanum, Hypochaeris radicata, Ranunculus acris, Cirsium palustre, C. arvense, Lotus corniculatus, Dactylis glomerata, Trisetum flavescens, Campanula rotundifolia, Galium verum, Achillea millefolium, Leontodon saxatilis, Plantago lanceolata} and locally occasional {\it Crepis capillaris, Vicia cracca, Festuca rubra} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. Around the periphery of the grassland areas and along the tracksides are areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex} sp. Some {\it Ulex gallii} was recorded from the grassland areas. Locally there are scattered trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica 'purpurea', Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}. There are a couple of springs surrounded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} or {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Ulex gallii} and {\it Salix fragilis}.

North of the B4203 the grassland is damper with frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Ulex gallii, Potentilla erecta, Briza media, Lotus pedunculatus, Achillea ptarmica, Agrostis canina, Linum catharticum, Danthonia decumbens, Cirsium palustre} and locally {\it Juncus articulatus, Ranunculus repens, Hypericum perforatum, Juncus conglomeratus} and scattered trees of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Salix capraea, Quercus} sp. and {\it Betula pendula}. {\it Calluna vulgaris, Centuarea nigra} and {\it Pedicularis sylvatica} were rare. 

South of the A44 is an area of {\it Holcus lanatus/Festuca rubra/Agrostis capillaris} grassland with occasional to frequent {\it Lotus corniculatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Trifolium} spp. and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and occasional {\it Vicia cracca, Linum catharticum, Ononis repens, Rumex crispus, Cirsium arvense, C. palustre, Galium verum, Prunella vulgaris, Ranunculus repens, Agrimonia eupatorium, Achillea millefolium, Leontodon} sp. and {\it Plantago lanceolata}. An orchid {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii?} was recorded here. There are a few planted ornamental trees ({\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Acer} sp.) at the western end.

At SO 66955550 there is a small area of damp unimproved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Deschampsia cespitosa, Succisa pratensis, Festuca rubra} and occasional {\it Achillea millefolium, Cirsium palustre, Potentilla erecta, Briza media, Achillea ptarmica, Silaum silaus} and {\it Galium verum}. {\it Mentha aquatica, Ranunculus flammula, Carex} spp. and {\it Vicia cracca} occured locally and {\it Stachys officinalis} and {\it Juncus articulatus} were also recorded here.

There is an area of semi-improved acid grassland south of the B4203 dominated by {\it Festuca} sp. with frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Calluna vulgaris, Lotus corniculatus, Linum catharticum, Briza media} and {\it Achillea ptarmica} with scattered {\it Ulex galli} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. {\it Stachys officinalis} and {\it Viola} sp. were rare and {\it Carex} spp. and {\it Potentilla anserina} local. {\it Populus tremula} was encroaching on this area from the adjoining area of woodland. There are also a few pockets of semi-improved acid grassland amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} where the additional species {\it Veronica officinalis} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia} were recorded.

The recreation ground near Brockhampton County Primary School at the southern end of the common supports an amenity turf of {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Trifolium repens}.

The remainder of the common is dominated by continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Quercus robur, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Betula pendula} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and locally scattered {\it Castanea sativa, Chamerion angustifolium, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Prunus domestica}. There is an area of continuous scrub adjacent to Cherry Orchard Farm at the south-eastern end of the common with abundant {\it Salix cinerea}. 

There are a few pockets of broadleaved woodland around the common. Adjacent to the A44 at the eastern end of the common is an area of broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica, Quercus} sp. and {\it Salix cinerea} with an understorey of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} and a groundflora of {\it Mercurialis perennis, Dryopteris filix-mas, Hedera helix, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}. The other pockets on the comon are similar. There is a small plantation of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} at SO668556. 

There are two small ponds on the common. That at the southern end near Washcroft had abundant algae with some marginal {\it Glyceria fluitans} and some {\it Salix alba} and {\it Quercus} sp. around the edge. The pond at SO669556 was of more interest with {\it Ranunculus flammula, R. lingua, Mentha aquatica, Eleocharis palustris, Iris pseudacorus, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum} and {\it Juncus acutiflorus}.

MANAGE:
Bromyard Downs is regulated by a scheme made by the former Bromyard Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. There is a clear contrast between the managed and largely unmanaged parts of the common illustrating the threat to the common if management is relaxed. 

The majority of the grassland areas are managed for hay and were in the process of being cut at the time of the site visit. There are sheep warning signs on the roads suggesting that the area is also grazed although there are no cattle grids on the roads. The areas of continuous bracken and scattered scrub have mown paths through them. There has been a limited amount of tree planting on the common. There is a picnic area and car park provided adjacent to the Royal Oak pub and two small car parks near Brockhampton County Primary School at the southern end. There is a caravan site on the south-eastern end of the common.


FAUNA:
Green woodpecker and speckled wood butterfly were recorded during the site visit. See also the fauna description for Bradnor Hill (CL58) with which this common is continuous.

VEG:
Dunfield Peak lies on the western slope of Bradnor Hill (CL58) with which this common is continuous. The common supports continuous bracken as a continuation of the lower slopes of Bradnor Hill, probably with a similar associated flora. There are a number of scattered trees over the bracken at the foot of the slope comprising {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ilex aquifolium, Taxus baccata} and {\it Araucaria araucana} with some {\it Ulex gallii} and {\it U. europaeus}. There is lying deadwood in this area. 

The stream bordering the western edge of the common was enclosed in {\it Ulmus glabra} and young {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with {\it Oenanthe crocata, Ribes uva-crispa, Dryopteris dilatata, Urtica dioica, Geum urbanum, Athyrium filix-femina} and {\it Mercurialis perennis}. The small area of plantation bordering the common south of Dunfield supported frequent {\it Chrysanthemum segetum} (sown?).

MANAGE:
Dunfield Peak is grazed by sheep together with Bradnor Hill (there is no boundary between the two) although there is only one actual right holder on this common. A small area of bracken had been cut on the common. The scattered trees on the western end of the common are where green woodpecker and speckled wood were recorded and are probably valuable habitat for fauna. An {\it Araucaria araucana} tree has been planted on the common here.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, robin, pheasant, woodpigeon and blackbird were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Mocktree Turnpike is an approximately 2km length of track north of Leintwardine near the Herefordshire/Shropshire border. It is bordered by variable hedges predominantly of {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Cornus sanguinea} and {\it Quercus robur}, locally with {\it Laburnum anagyroides, Symphoricarpos albus, Lonicera periclymenum, Ulmus glabra} and {\it Ligustrum vulgare}. There was an ancient {\it Quercus robur} on the north-south running section of the common. Along the base of the hedgerow {\it Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Stachys sylvatica, Rumex sanguineus, Dryopteris filix-mas, Glechoma hederacea, Alliaria petiolata, Aegopodium podagraria, Geranium robertianum, Torilis japonica, Ranunculus repens, Bromopsis ramosa, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lapsana communis, Stellaria media, Galium aparine, Pteridium aquilinum, Rosa canina, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Geum urbanum, Silene} sp., {\it Stellaria holostea, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Phleum pratense, Hedera helix, Hypericum perforatum} and locally {\it Agrostis capillaris, Campanula glomerata, Digitalis purpurea, Ulex} sp. and {\it Prunella vulgaris} at the northern end of the common. Where the hedge is managed and much lower the groundflora is more dominated by grasses such as {\it Elytrigia repens} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with {\it Cirsium arvense, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Plantago major}. The western end is cut quite deeply and {\it Taxus baccata} and {\it Melica uniflora} were recorded here.

MANAGE:
The majority of the hedges lining Mocktree Turnpike are unmanaged and very tall. Although a fairly diverse flora was recorded along the base of the hedgerows, it was sparsely distributed. Sections of the hedgerow along the north-south running section of the track are managed and much lower in height with a basal flora dominated by grasses. Locally the hedgerow had been layered (near the eastern end). The easternmost end had been recently tarmacked with some earth piled along the track edges and the north-south running section was surfaced with hardcore. The section between Todding and Mocktree Farm was not used by vehicles. Some horse manure had been dumped on the common from an adjoining field.


VEG:
Ballsgate common is situated on a steep south-facing slope at the edge of the Lugg valley in the north of the county. There was limited public access to this common. However, the common appeared to support fairly dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Ulmus glabra, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex} sp. There are also a couple of areas of continuous scrub. There is probably little or no vegetation beneath the dense bracken and scrub. 

Along the southern boundary is a strip of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} woodland with an understorey of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Ligustrum vulgare, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana}. Groundflora species recorded were frequent {\it Hedera helix} and {\it Geranium robertianum} with occasional {\it Urtica dioica, Geum urbanum, Rumex sanguineus, Anthriscus sylvestris, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Stellaria holostea, Mercurialis perennis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There is a small plantation of conifers at the northern end of the common.

MANAGE:
The common is apparently unmanaged. A small area has been planted with conifers.


VEG:
Eyton common is situated in the Lugg valley to the north-west of Leominster. It is bordered by small streams to the north and south. 

The majority of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Lathyrus pratensis, Stellaria graminea, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Hypochaeris radicata, Cirsium palustre, Potentilla erecta, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Festuca pratensis}. {\it Odontites vernus} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} occurred locally and {\it Succisa pratensis} was also recorded. There is probably a greater diversity of grasses, but the common was surveyed late in the season and after the hay cut. There is a coarser strip to the south with {\it Iris pseudacorus, Filipendula ulmaria, Chamerion angustifolium, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. To the east of the road the grassland was also coarse with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Trifolium pratense, Angelica sylvestris, Filipendula ulmaria, Phleum pratense, Ranunculus repens, Stellaria graminea, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. There is some scattered scrub of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. and locally {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Epilobium hirsutum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Agrimonia eupatorium, Potentilla anserina, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica} occur. 

The common is fringed with strips of {\it Alnus glutinosa} agg. woodland. There was generally little understorey with occasional {\it Stachys sylvatica, Geranium robertianum, Aegopodium podagraria, Hedera helix, Filipendula ulmaria, Galeopsis tetrahit, Urtica dioica, Ribes rubrum} and {\it Silene dioica} in the groundflora. Along the eastern edge {\it Salix fragilis, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Crataegus monogyna} were also recorded.

A pond has been created at the south-eastern corner of the common. {\it Scrophularia nodosa} was recorded along the northern stream.

MANAGE:
Apparently there is only one practising commoner. According to him, the common was overgrown with thistles, but now he takes a hay crop and then grazes with cattle within a temporary electric fence. The grassland is still locally coarse (mainly around the edges where it is probably less managed. A garden has encroached onto the common at the south-eastern corner with the creation of a pond which is fenced off from the common. There are accesses to fields off the common. There were some travellers on the common at the time of the site visit.


VEG:
Long meadow lies adjacent to the River Arrow at Pembridge. It supports an improved grassland with frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Agrostis} spp., locally frequent {\it Festuca rubra} and occasional {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Trifolium repens}. The southern edge is bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}, locally defunct and locally with mature hedgerow trees of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Salix fragilis}. Scattered trees of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Salix fragilis} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} occur along the river bank.

MANAGE:
The common has evidently been much improved and was being grazed by cattle and a few horses at the time of the site visit. There are two rights of estovers on this common relating to the right to mow grass hay crop, and grazing is only allowed after the hay crop.


FAUNA:
Pheasant was recorded during the site visit. The butterflies small skipper, wood, large, small and green-veined whites, red admiral, painted lady, small tortoiseshell, peacock, high brown, dark green and silver-washed fritillaries, gatekeeper, meadow brown, speckled wood and ringlet have been recorded from Yatton Hill and the adjoining Leinthall common (CL 31) by the Butterfly Conservation Society (1990-1997). Yatton Hill is one of only three Herefordshire commons supporting both the nationally rare pearl-bordered and high brown fritillaries (British Butterfly Conservation Society records) both of which are included on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action plan.

VEG:
Yatton hill is situated on steep south-west and north-west facing slopes in the north of the county. It lies adjacent to the National Trust owned Croft Ambrey Iron Age hill fort. The common is dominated by continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub similar to that found at the western end of Leinthall Common (CL31) with which this common is contiguous, with the additional species {\it Ulex europaeus, Campanula rotundifolia, Aphanes arvensis, Hypericum humifusum} and locally {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} recorded amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and along the paths. Fly agaric was recorded at SO43556615 and {\it Colchicum autumnale} at SO44056670.

There is an area of unimproved acid grassland on an exposed ridge at the northern end of the common with abundant {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Galium saxatile, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca ovina}, the bryophyte {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and scattered {\it Ulex} sp. Lowland dry acid grassland is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. There are also a few small groups of planted {\it Pinus} sp. at this end of the common. 

There is a small area of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} woodland in a gully just south of the hill fort with a sparse groundflora supporting {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. On the western edge of the common is a small area of continuous scrub supporting {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}.

MANAGE:
The common is apparently unmanaged. The area of unimproved acid grassland at the northern end of the common is possibly kept free of scrub and bracken due to the wind action on the exposed ridge. Yatton Hill is much less encroached with scrub than Leinthall Common. The nationally rare pearl-bordered and high brown fritillaries that occur on the common require violets for egg-laying within fairly open bracken stands. Both species have been badly affected by abandonment and cessation of grazing and bracken control measures (Butterfly Conservation Society). Intervention will be required to maintain suitable habitat for these species. The adjoining Leinthall Common (CL31) is included in the Marches Commons Enhancement Project proposal (see under the entry for that common) but not Yatton Hill which is much less encroached with scrub but equally in need of management particularly with respect to the above species of butterfly. Some dumped scrap metal (car, oil drums etc.) was noted at the north-western end of the common.


VEG:
Byton common is situated on a steep west-facing slope overlooking the Lugg valley in the north-west of the county. The common supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub and continuous scrub. Scrub species include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Quercus} sp., {\it Ulmus glabra, Ilex aquifolium, Salix capraea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Beneath the continuous scrub {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Stellaria holostea, Urtica dioica, Geum urbanum, Digitalis purpurea, Galium aparine, Stellaria graminea, Glechoma hederacea} and the bryophytes {\it Mnium hornum} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum} were recorded. The paths through the bracken support semi-improved acid grassland of {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus} spp. with occasional {\it Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Cerastium fontanum, Achillea millefolium, Potentilla erecta, Viola} sp. and {\it  Campanula rotundifolia}. There is very little vegetation elsewhere amongst the continuous bracken.

MANAGE:
The permissive path along the top of the common (forming part of the Mortimer Trail) is maintained. Otherwise there is little management on the common. Dense bracken has probably dominated the common for a number of years with little flora now remaining beneath and with a substantial amount of scrub encroachment. The mixed scrub probably provides important habitat for birds.


VEG:
Wapley common is situated on a steep, north-facing slope overlooking the Lugg valley east of Presteign. The common supports continuous scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} with a groundflora of {\it Dryopteris filix-mas, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Oxalis acetosella, Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla sterilis, Hedera helix, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Viola} sp. and the bryophytes {\it Mnium hornum} and {\it Eurynchium praelongum}. 

The scrub opens out to an area of continuous bracken with scattered scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Acer pseudoplatanus, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. Amongst the bracken {\it Silene dioica, Stellaria media, S. holostea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Glechoma hederacea, Agrostis capillaris, Chamerion angustifolium, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Teucrium scorodonia, Lonicera periclymenum, Digitalis purpurea, Urtica dioica, Holcus} spp. and the bryophyte {\it Polytrichum} sp. were recorded. {\it Viscum album} was recorded on {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

There is a small area of coarse, semi-improved neutral grassland around an access track to a property along the northern edge of the common comprising frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Festuca rubra, Arrhenatherum elatius} with occasional {\it Tussilago farfara, Trifolium pratense, Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Pteridium aquilinum, Heracleum sphondylium, Centaurea nigra, Hypochaeris radicata, Leontodon} sp. and {\it Viola} sp.

The southern boundary of the common is marked by a defunct, species-poor hedgerow of {\it Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana}.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged and has probably supported bracken and scrub for some time, there being little vegetation amongst the bracken. There are a few species more typical of woodlands amongst the bracken (eg. {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Stellaria holostea}), the growth of bracken creating similar environmental conditions to within a woodland also suggesting that the common has supported continuous bracken for some time. The continuous scrub has similarly probably been long established, the groundflora supporting a few species more typical of long established woodlands eg. {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Potentilla anserina?}. The small area of coarse semi-improved neutral grassland is kept cut back.


FAUNA:
Faunal observations were not made during the Phase II survey of the common for English Nature (23.08.97). The citation describes the SSSI as an important site in Herefordshire for birds with breeding and overwintering mallard, teal, snipe and curlew. The butterflies green-veined white, white letter hairstreak, holly blue, red admiral, small tortoiseshell, peacock, comma, silver-washed fritillary, speckled wood, gatekeeper and ringlet have been recorded from Byton and Coombe Moors (CLs 153 and 154) by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Coombe Moor is situated in the Lugg Valley in north-west Herefordshire on the site of a former glacial lake. There was no public access to the common but a Phase II survey of Byton and Coombe Moors SSSI was carried out for English Nature 23.08.97 on which this report is based. 

The eastern half of the common supports marshy grassland (M27a {\it Filipendula ulmaria-Angelica sylvestris} tall herb fen, {\it Valeriana officinalis-Rumex acetosa} sub-community locally with a small area of MG10c {\it Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus}, {\it Iris pseudacorus} sub-community to the south-east, both communities are as described for CL154). 

There is also a small area of semi-improved neutral grassland (MG6a {\it Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus} pasture, typical sub-community) again as described under the entry for CL154.

The western half of the common supports carr woodland dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} with some {\it Salix cinerea}. This area was not surveyed during the Phase II survey. Certain types of wet woodlands (not specified) form one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

MANAGE:
For the management of the common please see under the entry for CL154 with which this common is continuous.


VEG:
Coombe Moor is situated in the Lugg Valley in north-west Herefordshire on the site of a former glacial lake. There was no public access to the common but a Phase II survey was carried out for English Nature 23.08.97 on which this report is based.

The main habitat on the common is marshy grassland, within which three NVC communities were recognised (M27a {\it Filipendula ulmaria-Angelica sylvestris} tall herb fen, {\it Valeriana officinalis-Rumex acetosa} sub-community, MG10a {\it Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus} rush pasture, typical sub-community and MG10c {\it H. lanatus-J. effusus} rush pasture, {\it Iris pseudacorus} sub-community). Large areas of the M27a are dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with abundant {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Juncus effusus} (co-dominant around the edges), frequent {\it Galium palustre, Iris pseudacorus, Polygonum hydropiper, Scutellaria galericulata, Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris} (locally frequent), {\it Cirsium palustre, Epilobium hirsutum, Myosotis scorpioides, Carex rostrata} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}. This community is predominant on the western half of the common. 

MG10a is the predominant community on the eastern half of the common and is strongly dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with abundant {\it Agrostis stolonifera}, frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Galium palustre, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Scutellaria galericulata} and occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Carex rostrata}. {\it Eleocharis palustris, Lythrum salicaria} and {\it Oenanthe fistulosa} were rare in the community. 

The MG10c community occurs towards the south-western corner of the common and is characterised by a lower abundance of {\it Juncus effusus} than MG10a and a greater abundance of tall herbs, particularly {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Juncus effusus} are dominant with abundant {\it Holcus lanatus}, frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Cirsium palustre, Epilobium palustre, Filipendula ulmaria, Galium palustre, Iris pseudacorus, Lotus pedunculatus, Myosotis scorpioides, Potentilla anserina, Ranunculus flammula, R. repens, Scutellaria galericulata, Carex rostrata} and {\it Trifolium repens}, locally frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and occasional {\it Poa annua, P. pratensis, Cirsium arvense} (locally abundant), {\it Lysimmachia nummularia, Mentha aquatica, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, Rumex acetosa} and {\it R. obtusifolius}. Species-rich rush pasture is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

There are also quite large areas of swamp vegetation (S9 {\it Carex rostrata} swamp, and locally S4 {\it Phragmites australis} reedbed). The S9 community is dominated by {\it Carex rostrata} with frequent (locally abundant) {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Scutellaria galericulata}, frequent {\it Galium palustre} and {\it Polygonum hydropiper}, occasional (locally frequent) {\it Agrostis stolonifera} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}, occasional {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Lycopus europaeus} and locally frequent {\it Epilobium palustre}. Frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Galium palustre, Juncus effusus, Scutellaria galericulata} (locally abundant) and occasional (locally frequent) {\it Urtica dioica} were recorded in the S4 {\it Phragmites australis} reedbed.

There are a couple of areas of semi-improved neutral grassland on the western half of the common (MG6a {\it Lolium perenne-Cynosurus cristatus} pasture, typical sub-community) with abundant {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne}, frequent (locally abundant) {\it Iris pseudacorus, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Trifolium repens}, frequent {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Festuca rubra, Leontodon autumnalis, Polygonum hydropiper, Potentilla anserina, Trifolium pratense, Taraxacum} sp. and occasional {\it Alopecurus pratensis} (locally frequent), {\it Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Cerastium fontanum, Cirsium palustre, Filipendula ulmaria, Galium palustre, Juncus articulatus, J. effusus, Lotus pedunculatus, Plantago lanceolata, P. major, Prunella vulgaris, Ranunculus acris, Senecio aquaticus, Polygonum aviculare, Tanacetum vulgare} and {\it Carex hirta} (locally abundant). {\it Lotus corniculatus} is locally frequent. 

There are also two areas of carr woodland on the common dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} with some {\it Salix cinerea} these were not surveyed during the Phase II survey. Certain types of wet woodlands (not specified) form one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The drain around the northern boundary of the common supports {\it Apium nodiflorum, Polygonum hydropiper, Lotus pedunculatus, Glyceria fluitans, Myosotis scorpiodes, Phalaris arundinacea, Sparganium erectum, Lycopus europaeus} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}. The drain is bordered by a narrow fringe of marshy grassland with tall ruderal species such as {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium vulgare, C. arvense, Rumex obtusifolius} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. There is a small area of inundation vegetation at the south-eastern end of the common bordering a drain with locally dominant {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Alopecurus geniculatus} or {\it Glyceria fluitans} with frequent {\it Galium palustre, Ranunculus flammula, R. repens} and {\it Polygonum hydropiper} and occasional {\it Juncus articulatus} (MG13 {\it Agrostis stolonifera-Alopecurus geniculatus} grassland).

{\it Caltha palustris, Menyanthes trifoliata, Ranunculus sceleratus, Carex nigra, C. paniculata, C. riparia, C. vesicaria} and {\it Osmunda regalis} were recorded from the common 07/08.84 by J.R. Langridge (O.U.Ecology Course student).

MANAGE:
At the time of the Phase II survey the common was being lightly grazed by 4 horses which were largely avoiding the taller vegetation. The current management was considered to be ideal (Phase II survey), more intense grazing probably leading to preferential grazing of the {\it Filipendula ulmaria}, favouring the spread of {\it Juncus effusus} resulting in the degradation of the M27 mire which is now a relatively rare habitat. The horses also make paths through the mire increasing diversity and microhabitats for invertebrates. It was recommended that close monitoring of the vegetation is maintained to ensure the site does not suffer any more drying and the spread of woodland and scrub on the common should also be monitored and appropriate measures taken if neccessary.

According to a local resident considerable drainage of the surrounding land has taken place over the last 40 years. The common now floods to lesser depth and the vegetation has changed from having large stands of {\it Iris pseudacorus} to the current vegetation dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Juncus effusus} with invasion of trees. 

The common is open to the adjoining Coombe Moor (CL153).


VEG:
Cromer common is situated in the River Arrow valley to the south-west of Leominster. It borders a stream at the eastern end. The western end of the common is under arable cultivation, the remainder largely supporting improved grassland similar to that on the nearby Ivington common (CL130). Locally the grassland is semi-improved with frequent {\it Hypochaeris radicata} and occasional {\it Prunella vulgaris, Leucanthemum vulgare, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Trifolium pratense}. There is a small area of continuous {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub. 

There is a short length of wet ditch bordering the common at SO470574 supporting {\it Urtica dioica, Apium nodiflorum, Oenanthe croccata, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. {\it Apium nodiflorum, Elodea canadensis} and {\it Myosotis} sp. were recorded in the stream bordering the common at the eastern end.

The common is bordered by species-poor hedgerows with trees (locally defunct) comprising {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Salix} spp. and {\it Quercus} sp. There is no boundary at the eastern end of the common.

MANAGE:
The western end of the common is under arable cultivation. The remainder of the common has evidently been much improved and has been subdivided with fencing into a number of horse paddocks. The easternmost section is continuous with the adjoining area to the east, had been cut for hay and was being grazed by cattle. There are no registered rights on this common which is presumably being managed by the owners.


FAUNA:
Chiffchaff, blackcap and mallard were recorded during the site visit. A buzzard was heard nearby. 

The following birds were recorded as probably breeding on Clifford common in 1989 by Herefordshire Ornithological Club; stock dove, woodpigeon, pied wagtail, wren, dunnock, robin, blackbird, song thrush, whitethroat, garden warbler, blackcap, willow warbler, nuthatch, chaffinch, greenfinch and the tits long-tailed, marsh, willow, blue and great. Yellow wagtail and goldfinch were also recorded and also reed bunting in previous years. Grey heron, mute swan, mallard, sand martin, kingfisher and lesser black-backed gull were recorded over the River Wye. Song thrush is listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

The common is included in the River Wye (Lower Wye) SSSI largely due to its use by otters which breed in the vicinity. The SSSI is of international importance for its Atlantic stream crayfish and common otter. The bankside tree cover provides valuable roosting habitats for several bat species including the greater horseshoe and Daubenton's bat. Otter and greater horseshoe bat are on the short-list of globally endangered/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The SSSI supports a varied assemblage of breeding birds such as mute swan and coot in the slower flowing reaches, dipper and grey wagtail on the faster flowing sections and sedge warbler and reed bunting in riparian habitats along the river banks. Extensive shingle shoals provide suitable breeding habitat for little ringed plover and vertical banks provide nesting sites for the sand martin and kingfisher. Goosanders are present throughout most of the year. Occasional low-lying, wet areas of land adjacent to the river support breeding waders such as snipe and lapwing whilst common sandpiper is widely distributed along the length of the river. Reed bunting is included on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Chub, dace, pike, roach and perch are the most widely distibuted fish along the river. Grayling, brown trout and sea trout breed and migrate along the river. Sea and river lamprey, twait shad and allis shad migrate into the river each year to spawn. Large numbers of elvers migrate up the river with the spring high tides. Important numbers of Atlantic salmon migrate up the river to spawning grounds in the headwaters. The river also supports internationally important populations of brook lamprey and bullhead. Atlantic salmon, twait shad, allis shad and bullhead are all of European importance and listed on Annex II if the EU Habitats and Species Directive. Twait shad and allis shad are listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

The invertebrate fauna of the SSSI in general is characteristic of a large lowland river supporting species such as the nationally rare mayfly {\it Potamanthus luteus} and the caddis fly {\it Hydroptila lotensis} together with the nationally scarce stonefly {\it Brachyptera putata} and the club-tailed dragonfly {\it Gomphus vulgatissimus}. It is of special interest for species associated with riffles including the nationally rare riffle beetles {\it Normandia nitens} and {\it Oulimnius major}, river shingles including the nationally rare shingle beetle {\it Neobisnius proxlixus}, saltmarsh, river deadwood including the nationally rare beetle {\it Macronychus quadrituberculatus} and the caddis fly {\it Oecetis notata} and bankside vegetation providing cover and breeding habitat for the white-legged damselfly and supporting five nationally scarce species of moth including the waved carpet (listed on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan) and the micro moth {\it Mompha langiella}. Nine other nationally scarce beetles associated with these habitats have been recorded. Other nationally rare species are associated with sandy river banks such as the cranefly {\it Limonia omissinervis}. All six species of unionid mussels occur on the river including the scarce depressed river mussel {\it Pseudanodonta complanata} which is listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. This is believed to be a unique assemblage in in Britain.

VEG:
Clifford common is situated on the River Wye including a section of the river. There is a steep embankment along the eastern edge of the common (described as a former river cliff in the HNT Guide to nature reserves). 

The northern end of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Holcus lanatus, Filipendula ulmaria, Galeopsis tetrahit, Aegopodium podagraria, Symphytum} sp. and {\it Arctium} sp. with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. South from here, at the centre of the common, is an area of continuous bracken.

The southern end of the common supports tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Rumex obtusifolius, Anthriscus sylvestris, Arrhenatherum elatius, Heracleum sphondylium, Tanacetum vulgare, Campanula trachelium, Artemisia vulgaris, Portulaca oleracea, Oenanthe lachenalii?, Chaerophyllum temulum, Hypericum} sp. and scattered scrub of {\it Rosa canina, Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Ulmus glabra, Acer pseudoplatanus, Rubus idaeus, R. fruticosus} agg. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Beneath the scrub species such as {\it Geum urbanum, Glechoma hederacea, Silene vulgaris, Allium ursinum, Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix} and {\it Stachys sylvatica} were recorded.

There is much {\it Ranunculus fluitans} in the River Wye. Along the banks of the Wye the following were recorded; abundant {\it Impatiens glandulifera}, frequent {\it Oenanthe crocata} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum, E. montanum, Phalaris arundinacea, Juncus inflexus, Ranunculus repens, Pteridium aquilinum, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Rorippa sylvestris}. {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Alnus glutinosa} are scattered along the bank. 

The River Wye (Lower Wye) SSSI in general, is of international importance for its beds of water crowfoot {\it Ranunculus} sp. Other common plants include {\it Myriophyllum spicatum, Ceratophyllum demersum} and {\it Potamogeton perfoliatus}. Rare aquatic species include the nationally scarce* {\it Myriophyllum verticillatum}. Marginal vegetation often consists of {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Sparganium erectum}. Other marginal plants such as {\it Polygonum amphibium, Veronica beccabunga, Rorripa} spp. and {\it Myosotis scorpioides} are widespread and frequent. {\it Equisetum x litorale} is found growing along the margins of the SSSI in its upper section. Characteristic bankside plants include {\it Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Phalaris arundinacea}. A number of rare and resricted species occur along the river banks including {\it Thalictrum flavum, Saxifraga granulata} and the nationally scarce* {\it Allium schoenoprasum}. {\it Salix} spp. are common along the banks of the upper and middle sections whilst {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} become more frequent in the lower reaches. {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} is widespread along the length of the river.

Along the steep embankment on the eastern edge of the common is an area of continuous scrub (described as woodland in the HNT Guide to Nature Reserves) comprising {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. {\it Ilex aquifolium, Malus sylvestris, Quercus} sp. and {\it Salix} spp. were also recorded in 1988.

{\it Bryonia dioica, Carduus crispus, Conium maculatum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Galanthus nivalis, Malva sylvestris, Potentilla sterilis, Scrophularia aquatica, Stachys officinalis, Tanacetum vulgare, Verbascum thapsus} and {\it Viola odorata} were recorded from the reserve in 1988. The nationally scarce* {\it Allium schoenoprasum} is also listed for this 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:
The common is managed by the Herefordshire Nature Trust and has not been grazed for many years. It is covered by tall vegetation with encroaching scrub and is anticipated to have great potential as an otter refuge. The growth of scrub is not being discouraged. Some oaks have apparently been planted with the aim of one day providing root systems suitable for otter holts. Management of the reserve focusses on preventing further erosion with a regular program of coppicing alders fringing the river bank (there was no evidence of recent coppicing). The wooded bank along the eastern edge of the reserve is described as a very valuable habitat for birds. Most of the common is flooded every winter. The horse-drawn Hay tramway, constructed c.1818, was built along the eastern edge of the common, now forming part of the reserve path. 

If the nationally scarce {\it Allium schoenoprasum} does occur on the common this should be monitored and conserved. The northern end of the common may become further invaded by {\it Pteridium aquilinum} if left unmanaged.


FAUNA:
Buzzard, blackbird, raven, peacock, common blue, small copper and gatekeeper were recorded during the site visit. 

Birds recorded in 1986 (P.Thomson) were buzzard, carrion crow, woodpigeon, blackbird, greater spotted woodpecker, tree pipit, meadow pipit, chaffinch, yellowhammer, blue tit, great tit, nuthatch, raven, swift, black-headed gull, blackcap and willow warbler. The common was formerly a nesting site for woodlark, a species listed on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Tawny owl and woodcock were recorded from the common in 1977. 

The butterflies red admiral, small tortoiseshell, speckled wood and small heath were recorded during the 1986 survey. Also recorded were the bees {\it Bombus hortorum, B. agrorum} and the solitary bee {\it Andrena jacobii}. Active anthills of {\it Lasius flavus} were recorded near the summit and a number of disused mounds beneath the bracken. Freshwater shrimps and caddis fly larvae were noted from the stream and tadpoles and common newt were recorded from the pond. Evidence of badgers was noted in the woodland but no sett was found. 

The additional butterflies small and green-veined whites and ringlet have been recorded from the common by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Merbach hill is situated on a steep hillside overlooking the river Wye in western Herefordshire. The hill is composed of Old Red Sandstone, mainly Downtonian, and is capped with Tilestones (thin bedded sandstones) which have been quarried in and around the summit. The summit rises to 318m. The common drops steeply into a stream valley to the northeast bordering Westonhill wood. 

The majority of the common supports continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub (locally dense) of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa, Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior, Ulex gallii, Salix capraea, Ilex aquifolium, Acer pseudoplatanus, Ulmus glabra, Acer campestre, Quercus robur, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There are pockets of grassland amongst the bracken of abundant {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. The following species were also recorded; {\it Achillea ptarmica, Lathyrus nissolia, Lotus pedunculatus, Juncus articulatus, Linum catharticum, Chamerion angustifolium, Cruciata laevipes, Circaea lutetiana, Campanula rotundifolia, Potentilla erecta, Stellaria graminea, Ranunculus flammula, Carex ovalis} and {\it Galeopsis tetrahit}.

Woodland and scrub flanks the northern slopes. Canopy species are {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus glutinosa, Populus tremula, Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula}. The understorey/scrub comprises {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Prunus spinosa, Acer campestre} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The groundflora is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with {\it Stellaria holostea, Geranium robertianum, Geum urbanum, Deschampsia cespitosa, Carex sylvatica?, Lapsana communis, Rumex sanguineus, Pteridium aquilinum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, Mercurialis perennis, Circaea lutetiana, Sanicula europaea, Urtica dioica, Galium odoratum, Viola} sp., {\it Stachys officinalis, S. sylvatica} and the bryophytes {\it Thuidium tamariscinum} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium} was recorded amongst the scrub. The small area of woodland at the western end of the common had a grassy groundflora with the additional grounflora species {\it Geranium robertianum, Torilis japonica} and {\it Moehringia trinervia}. There are some mature {\it Quercus robur} within the woodland and deadwood.

The undulating and much quarried summit of Merbach hill supports species-rich acid grassland dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} with {\it Thymus polytrichus, Lotus corniculatus, Pilosella officinarum, Geranium molle, Aira praecox, Cruciata laevipes, Trisetum flavescens, Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Rumex acetosella, Campanula rotundifolia, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Ulex gallii, Carex panicea, Galium saxatile, Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla sterilis, Viola} sp., the bryophytes {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it R. triquetrus} and the lichen {\it Peltigera canina}. Scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occurs locally.

A list of 194 species was compiled by three individuals on the basis of several summer visits in 1986 with one in late September. A few past records were also included. Additional species of interest recorded include marsh species {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Agrostis canina, Catabrosa aquatica, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Hypericum humifusum, Isolepis setacea, Pedicularis sylvatica} and {\it Veronica scutellata}, species indicative of ancient woodlands {\it Adoxa moschatellina, Allium ursinum, Lysimachia nemorum, Oxalis acetosella} and {\it Ranunculus auricomus}, species associated with dry habitats {\it Aphanes arvensis, Arenaria serpyllifolia, Erophila verna} and {\it Vulpia bromoides}, calcicoles {\it Carlina vulgaris, Clinopodium vulgare, Cornus sanguinea, Geranium lucidum} and {\it Mycelis muralis}, the ferns {\it Asplenium trichomanes, Blechnum spicant, Polystichum setiferum} and {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium}, nine species of sedge including {\it Carex echinata} and {\it C. pulicaris}, the orchids {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} and {\it Orchis mascula} and {\it Agrimonia eupatoria, Aira caryophyllea, Alchemilla vestita, Briza media, Bryonia dioica, Calluna vulgaris, Conopodium majus, Galium verum, Lathyrus linifolius, Luzula campestris, L. multiflora, Malus sylvestris, Nardus stricta, Polygala vulgaris, Primula veris, P. vulgaris, Sagina procumbens, Danthonia decumbens, Veronica officinalis} and {\it Colchicum autumnale} (at several locations).

MANAGE:
A pony and horse were observed grazing the summit at the time of the site visit. The Wye Valley Way crossing the common is maintained. Much of the common has become encroached with {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The thin soil on the summit is possibly restricting the spread of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} here but should be monitored as this area was found to be the richest area of grassland on the common. Attempts to reduce the cover of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} were noted in 1986 with the suggestion of widening the rides to further reduce bracken cover. Pockets of grassland within the bracken could also be extended. Thomson (1986) recommended limiting further encroachment of scrub, the present levels being considered of benefit to wildlife. Continued moderate grazing by sheep was considered appropriate (Thomson, 1986). 

Past coppicing of {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} was noted in 1986 and it was suggested to try reintroducing this practice. The woodland areas are open to stock which may limit regeneration particularly at the western end where there was quite a high grass content in the groundflora probably as a result of grazing.

A long dumped van was noted in the valley to the east.

Merbach hill was included in the 1996 Marches Commons Enhancement Project proposal made by Shropshire and Herefordshire Wildlife Trusts and English Nature. The commons included are all Key Wildlife Sites or SSSIs. Much of the management work is envisaged to be carried out by local farmers/commoners over a period of three years. The proposal also allowed for site interpretation and marketing for tourism.


VEG:
Climbing Jack Common is situated on a hill side rising to 345m and dropping away to the north-east within Haye Park Wood on the Herefordshire/Shropshire border. Haye Park Wood is a conifer plantation managed by the Forestry Commission. The common is bordering on upland altitude.

The vegetation is largely of semi-improved acid grassland with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (generally 50 percent cover). The grassland comprises frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Galium saxatile} with locally frequent {\it Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Teucrium scorodonia, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and occasional {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Festuca} sp., {\it Lotus pedunculatus, Campanula rotundifolia, Deschampsia cespitosa, Potentilla erecta, Stellaria graminea, Rumex acetosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Agrostis vineale?}. {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} occurs locally and {\it Luzula sylvatica, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and locally {\it Digitalis purpurea} occur beneath the {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There are a few scattered {\it Betula pendula} at the eastern end of the common. Locally {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is continuous with scattered scrub of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula} and {\it Corylus avellana}. Lowland acid grassland is one of the key habitats on the UK Biodiverity Action Plan. However, as mentioned above, this common is bordering on upland altitude.

There is a small area of acid dry dwarf shrub heath with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The ericaceous cover is about 70 percent with approximately equal proportions of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Upland and lowland heathland are both key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The extreme southern end of the common is strongly affected by the adjacent coniferous plantation supporting a woodland groundflora of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Dryopteris dilatata, Glechoma hederacea, Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum, Mercurialis perennis, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. There are several veteran {\it Quercus} sp. within the adjoining plantation. 

The parts of the common not bordered by plantation woodland are bordered by species-poor hedgerows (locally defunct) of {\it Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
The common is possibly managed by cutting. The growth of the {\it Calluna vulgaris} would be consistent with being mown and the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} was not as fully developed as expected for the time of year (due to cutting?). There is probably potential to extend the area of heath, there being fairly frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris} amongst the grassland to the south of the heath area. In the absence of management, the common would undoubtedly rapidly become completely encroached with {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Some dumped brashings were noted on the eastern end of the common encouraging the growth of {\it Urtica dioica}.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel and woodpigeon were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Brightall common is situated close to the Shropshire border in north Herefordshire on a steep south-west facing slope. A small stream runs along the western edge of the common. There are a couple of small, disused quarries adjacent to the road.

The lower slopes of the common support continuous scrub of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Betula pendula, Salix capraea, Prunus spinosa, Acer campestre, Taxus baccata, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Quercus} sp. Amongst the scrub {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lonicera periclymenum, Bromopsis ramosa, Urtica dioica, Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Stellaria holostea} were recorded. {\it Conopodium majus} and {\it Pimpinella saxifraga} were recorded along the roadside. A small area along the stream had been cleared beneath overhead cables and this area supported {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Chamerion angustifolium, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Urtica dioica} with some {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra} scrub. There are some mature {\it Quercus} sp. along the road at the southern end of the common.

Locally there are small pockets of broadleaved woodland. The area at the southern end has a canopy predominantly of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with an understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Ribes rubrum, Rosa} sp. and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Stachys sylvatica, Dryopteris filix-mas, Geum urbanum, Tamus communis, Filipendula ulmaria, Digitalis purpurea, Silene} sp. and the bryophyte {\it Eurynchium praelongum}. At the northern end of the common is an area of {\it Betula pendula} woodland, possibly a small plantation. 

The upper slopes support continuous bracken with scattered scrub (not surveyed) and there is a small area of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with the tall ruderal species {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Galium aparine} adjacent to the road at the northern end of the common.

To the south-west of the road which crosses the common are a couple of areas of coarse semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Trifolium repens} with locally frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and occasional {\it Ranunculus repens, Vicia sativa, Angelica sylvestris, Lolium perenne, Pteridium aquilinum, Urtica dioica, Rumex obtusifolius, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Plantago major}. The northernmost area is bordered by a tall hedgerow of {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The southernmost area also supports scattered scrub of {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged. The areas of grassland had been cut and a small strip of scrub cleared beneath overhead cables along the stream. The small area of {\it Betula pendula} woodland at the northern end of the common was possibly a plantation. With time the continuous scrub will probably succeed to woodland.


VEG:
Little Tenemant is situated on the edge of the Teme valley near Richards Castle in north Herefordshire. The common was only viewed from the roadside but appeared to support an improved {\it Lolium perenne} dominated grassland with occasional {\it Cirsium} sp. It is completely enclosed with intact hedgerows supporting (along the roadside) {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Acer campestre, Cornus sanguinea, Sambucus nigra, Bryonia dioica, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. Species-rich hedgerow is one of the key habitats on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The northern hedgerow was tall and supported {\it Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix fragilis} and {\it Populus nigra 'Italica'}.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by sheep at the time of the site visit and appears to have been improved. The hedgerows to the west, east and south are managed, the one to the north being very tall.


FAUNA:
Rabbit, swallow, a pair of buzzards and five ravens were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Rushock Hill is situated on a hill top close to the Welsh border including north-east, south-west and west facing slopes. Offa's Dyke runs along the northern edge. The common supports improved grassland of {\it Lolium perenne, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Poa pratensis} with frequent {\it Trifolium repens} and occasional {\it Cerastium fontanum, Cirsium vulgare, Urtica dioica, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Bellis perennis}. Part of the area north of Offa's Dyke has been incorporated into a field managed as {\it Lolium} ley. The extreme eastern end of the common was not visible from the public footpaths. 

There are a few pockets of {\it Ulex gallii} dry dwarf-shrub heath on the common locally with {\it Aira praecox, Rumex acetosella} and {\it Digitalis purpurea} and quite a bit of {\it Ulex gallii} along Offa's Dyke. There is a group of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} at the eastern end of the common. 

The western end of the common drops quite steeply into the head of a valley. Here the vegetation is of semi-improved acid grassland with locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Luzula} sp. with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Sorbus aucuparia, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ulex gallii}. The lower slopes support continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with occasional {\it Digitalis purpurea}. Semi-improved acid grassland also occurs along Offa's Dyke of {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with {\it Rumex acetosella, Achillea millefolium, Veronica officinalis} and {\it Galium saxatile}. 

The boundary of the common is now fenced with scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Populus tremula, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Malus sylvestris?}.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by sheep at the time of the site visit and has evidently been improved. Internal fencing has been erected on the common and part of the area north of Offa's Dyke has been incorporated into a field under ley cultivation. There is a group of planted {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} towards the eastern end of the common.


FAUNA:
Rabbit, grey squirrel, raven, buzzard, robin, blue tit, great tit, and small heath butterfly were recorded during the site visit. The common is very similar to the nearby Bradnor Hill (CL58) and probably supports a similar fauna to that common.

VEG:
Herrock Hill is a steep, dome-shaped hill close to the Welsh border on the edge of the Hindwell Brook valley. The majority of the common supports continuous bracken with scattered scrub of {\it Ulex gallii, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Quercus} sp. and locally scattered trees of {\it Betula pendula, Sorbus aucuparia, Larix decidua, Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. There is generally a fairly dense litter layer beneath the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with occasional {\it Digitalis purpurea}. Locally there are patches of semi-improved acid grassland with {\it Rumex acetosella, Spergularia rubra?, Cerastium fontanum, Lolium perenne, Aphanes arvensis, Veronica officinalis, V. serpyllifolia, Agrostis capillaris, Campanula rotundifolia, Festuca ovina, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Carex caryophyllea, Trifolium repens, Oxalis acetosella, Viola} sp. and {\it Poa} sp. {\it Fragaria vesca, Polygala vulgaris} and {\it Hypericum humifusum} were recorded locally and the bryophytes {\it Plagiomnium undulatum, Thuidium tamariscinum, Dicranum scoparium} and {\it Pseudoscleropodium purum}. {\it Urtica dioica} is fairly frequent on the lower slopes, particularly along the southern edge. There are a couple of enclosed areas along the eastern edge of the common. Here the grassland is less improved with {\it Festuca ovina, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Luzula} sp. and the bryophyte {\it Polytrichum} sp. with scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There is an area of open grassland on the hill top to which there was no public access. It is possible that this area supports unimproved acid grassland. 

Along Offa's Dyke and extending down the hillside to the south-west is an area of {\it Ulex gallii} dry dwarf-shrub heath. There is a small area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland to the east in a hollow in the hillside with a canopy of {\it Betula pendula, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus} sp., an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Ilex aquifolium} and a groundflora of scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}. 

The common is surrounded by defunct hedgerows and fenced. Hedgerow species include {\it Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Corylus avellana, Prunus avium} and occasional mature {\it Quercus petraea} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
Some sheep were grazing the common at the time of the site visit and the enclosed areas on the eastern edge are presumably used for grazing stock. The common is generally much encroached with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered scrub with a fairly dense litter layer beneath. A few {\it Larix decidua} have self set on the common from the adjoining plantation.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, buzzard, spotted flycatcher, wood warbler, chiffchaff, blue tit, great tit and speckled wood butterfly were recorded during the site visit. Spotted flycatcher is on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Rushock Common and Rushock Dingle largely lie on a steep north-facing valley side with a small area on the south-facing side below Rushock Hill (CL122). There is a small stream at the bottom of the valley. 

The north-facing section is largely covered with continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Betula pendula, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, Quercus} sp. and {\it Salix cinerea}. There is fairly dense litter beneath the {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with some {\it Holcus mollis, Lonicera periclymenum} and locally {\it Anemone nemorosa}. There are a few areas of continuous scrub comprising the above species with some {\it Prunus spinosa}. Beneath the scrub {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Digitalis purpurea, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Lysimmachia nemorum, Moehringia trinervia}, the bryophytes {\it Polytrichum} sp. and {\it Mnium hornum} and the fungus {\it Phallus impudicus} were recorded. Along the path the following were recorded {\it Conopodium majus, Potentilla erecta, Ranunculus acris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis capillaris, Rumex acetosa, Festuca} sp. and {\it Luzula} sp. 

At the western end of the north-facing section is an area of unimproved acid grassland comprising frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile, Conopodium majus}, occasional {\it Veronica officinalis, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Rumex acetosa, Holcus lanatus, Luzula} sp. and locally {\it Stellaria graminea, Viola} sp. and {\it Oxalis acetosella}. Lowland dry acid grassland is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

The eastern end of the common spanning the small stream supports an area of semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Quercus robur}, locally with {\it Alnus glutinosa} and occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and an understorey of {\it Ulmus glabra, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Prunus padus, Salix cinerea, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Groundflora species recorded were {\it Stachys sylvatica, Silene dioica, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Hedera helix, Galium aparine, Geum urbanum, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Circaea lutetiana, Mercurialis perennis, Stellaria holostea, Conopodium majus, Holcus mollis, Blechnum spicant, Fragaria vesca, Viola} sp. and {\it Geranium robertianum}. There is much lying deadwood. Where the canopy is more open {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Chamerion angustifolium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Alliaria petiolata} occur. There are two mature {\it Tilia x vulgaris} adjacent to the abandoned Hill House.

There were some mature {\it Quercus} sp. along the southern boundary and locally an {\it Ilex aquifolium} hedge.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged. The western end has possibly seen some control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and may still be grazed by sheep. If left unmanaged this area will soon become covered with {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, as has happened on the rest of the common, smothering the unimproved acid grassland. There is little vegetation now beneath the bracken on the rest of the common. An area of bracken and scrub has been cleared opposite the Dingle leaving an area of bare ground and an area of the common excavated to provide parking.


FAUNA:
Woodpigeon was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Ivington common is situated on the River Arrow south-west of Leominster and is crossed by one of its tributaries, Stretford Brook. The common supports improved grassland with frequent to abundant {\it Lolium perenne}, frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Trifolium repens, Cynosurus cristatus, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. In addition, {\it Holcus lanatus} was frequent and {\it Dactylis glomerata} was occasional on the section east of the River Arrow. 

There was little marginal vegetation on the river with some {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and occasional {\it Alnus glutinosa} and locally {\it Urtica dioica} on the banks. There was a little {\it Lemna} sp. in the drain and no vegetation in Stretford Brook except for a few {\it Salix alba} trees along the bank. 

The common is surrounded by defunct hedgerows of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Salix alba} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees.

MANAGE:
The common had evidently been heavily improved and was used for pasture. There was no stock on at the time of the site visit. The drain crossing the common was very deep (about 2m) and had recently been cleared. Stretford Brook crossing the common had also been cleared out and the earth spread alongside.


FAUNA:
Bullfinch, green woodpecker, yellowhammer, rabbits and the butterflies gatekeeper, meadow brown, small skipper, small copper and small heath were recorded during the site visit. Turtle dove, nightingale, dark green fritillary and both pearl bordered and small pearl bordered fritillary butterflies occur on the common (Sue Holland, pers. comm.). The nationally scarce pearl bordered fritillary is included in the short list and bullfinch and turtle dove on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. A total of 28 species of butterfly have been recorded from the common 1990-1997 (Butterfly Conservation Society records) including the additional species large, dingy and grizzled skippers, wood white, large, small and green-veined whites, orange tip, green hairstreak, common blue, holly blue, red admiral, painted lady, small tortoiseshell, peacock, comma, speckled wood, marbled white and ringlet.

VEG:
Ewyas Harold common occupies a plateau area and south facing slopes of a hill on the edge of the Golden valley. A large proportion of the common supports either a mosaic of continuous bracken and semi-improved acid grassland or scattered bracken over semi-improved acid grassland (locally unimproved). The grassland is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent fine-leaved {\it Festuca} spp., {\it Potentilla erecta}, locally frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and occasional {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Cerastium fontanum, Colchicum autumnale, Holcus lanatus} (locally frequent), {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium saxatile, Centaurium erythraea, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Pimpinella saxifraga}. {\it Veronica officinalis} and {\it Viola} sp. were infrequent. {\it Galium verum} is locally frequent. {\it Linum catharticum, Ophioglossum vulgatum} and {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} have also been recorded from the common (Sue Holland pers. comm.). Lowland dry acid grassland is one of the key habitats identified in the UK Biodiversity Action plan.

There are a couple of marshy grassland areas on the common. At (1) frequent {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Carex panicea, Briza media, Centaurium erythraea, Juncus inflexus, J. conglomeratus, Mentha arvensis, Achillea ptarmica, Ranunculus flammula, Lotus pedunculatus, Agrimonia eupatorium} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} were recorded. The second area at approx SO388298 had frequent {\it Carex panicea} but was less rich. {\it Carex hirta} and {\it C. ovalis} were also recorded on the common. 

At SO 389291 there is an interesting area of {\it Agrostis capillaris} dominated grassland with a number of calcicolous species including {\it Cirsium acaule, Carlina vulgaris, Origanum vulgare} and {\it Carex flacca}? {\it Trifolium repens} is frequent and {\it Prunella vulgaris, Plantago lanceolata, Bellis perennis, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Cirsium vulgare} occasional. 

Adjacent to the B4347 at the northern extreme of the common is a small enclosed coarse semi-improved meadow of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica, Angelica sylvestris, Trifolium pratense, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Achillea millefolium}.

Much of the remainder of the common is covered by continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub of {\it Ulmus glabra, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Ulex europaeus} and occasional {\it U. gallii}. In places this is associated with tall ruderal species {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and locally {\it Angelica sylvestris. Digitalis purpurea} is also present amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The whole area is intersected by numerous grassy tracks. {\it Ulex gallii} is locally dominant with some {\it Calluna vulgaris} at (2). 

There are some areas of continuous scrub on the common with some extensive stands of {\it Ulex europaeus} and areas of mixed scrub consisting of the scattered scrub species mentioned above together with {\it Prunus spinosa} and locally {\it Viburnum opulus} and {\it Cornus sanguinea}.

There are also few pockets of semi-natural broadleaved woodland on the common of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, an understory of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Ulmus glabra}. Locally the canopy is of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa, Lonicera periclymenum, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Salix capraea} and a groundflora of {\it Agrostis capillaris, Dryopteris filix-mas, Rumex sanguineus, Urtica dioica, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Mnium hornum}.

The common is bordered by variable hedges, locally defunct, ranging from species-poor {\it Prunus spinosa} hedges to locally rich hedgerows with {\it Crataegus monogyna, Euonymus europaeus, Hedera helix, Rosa} sp. and {\it Cornus sanguinea} with {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur} trees. {\it Prunus domestica} is locally  abundant.

MANAGE:
Ewyas Harold common has an active commoners association. Control of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} by rolling and cutting and {\it Ulex europaeus} by cutting were noted, locally leaving bare ground, and the grass paths are regularly maintained. The grassland in the old quarry at the north-western end of the common is quite eroded from car parking and cycling activity. Some dumping of garden rubbish was noted on the common.

Although mapped as semi-improved a large proportion of the common has probably never been improved, the input of litter from {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and the shading effect probably accounts for the semi-improved appearance of the sward.

The nationally rare pearl-bordered fritillary that occurs on the common requires violets for egg-laying within fairly open bracken stands. This species has been badly affected by abandonment and cessation of grazing and bracken control measures and is included in the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Ewyas Harold common was included in the 1996 Marches Commons Enhancement Project proposal made by Shropshire and Herefordshire Wildlife Trusts and English Nature. The commons included are all Key Wildlife Sites or SSSIs. Much of the management work is envisaged to be carried out by local farmers/commoners over a period of three years. The proposal also allows for site interpretation and marketing for tourism.


VEG:
Arkstone common is a low-lying area of common land. The northern part is currently under arable cultivation (maize). The southern part comprises broadleaved woodland of {\it Alnus glutinosa, Salix cinerea, S. fragilis, Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with an understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra, Rosa arvensis, Lonicera periclymenum, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana} and a groundflora of {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Urtica dioica, Hedera helix, Mercurialis perennis, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. The hedgerow to the east consisted of {\it Salix cinerea, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Viburnum opulus}.

MANAGE:
The northern part of the common was under arable cultivation (maize). The southern part was unmanaged except for trimming back the woodland along the roadside.


FAUNA:
Rabbit and mole were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Tillington common straddles a small dry valley, the majority lying on the north-facing slope. Unfortunately the common had recently been cut when surveyed. 

The vegetation comprises semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} with locally frequent {\it Festuca rubra} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Hypochaeris radicata, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Rumex crispus, Lotus corniculatus, Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Leontodon} sp. {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Calystegia sepium} were locally occasional and the bryophyte {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} occurred locally. The fungus {\it Langermannia gigantea} was also recorded. Scattered trees of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Quercus} sp. occur through the grassland and there is a roadside avenue of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} with {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} beneath. 

A drain crosses the western end of the common in the valley bottom supporting {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Calystegia sepium, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. West of here is a small area of {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub with {\it Urtica dioica, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Hedera helix} beneath and an old dry pond area with a few {\it Salix fragilis}. 

The hedgerows surrounding the common are intact and defunct species-poor with {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa}. Locally there are {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus} sp. trees and some {\it Sambucus nigra}. {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. is encroaching on the common from the hedgerow to the rear of the properties along the road with {\it Urtica dioica, Humulus lupulus, Rubus idaeus} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

MANAGE:
Tillington common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Rural District Council of Hereford under the Commons Act 1899. A hay crop had recently been taken from the common at the time of the site visit (which is not a right on this common). The common is probably not grazed as the grassland was locally coarse with {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Calystegia sepium} and {\it Urtica dioica}. A small area outside a property adjacent to the road was regularly mown. There is some scrub encroachment from the hedgerow to the rear of the properties on the road.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. The fauna of the SSSI is described in detail under the entry for CL76, Clifford common, with the exception of water vole and the dragonfly {\it Orthetrum cancellatum} (at the north-western edge of its distribution) which occur along the middle reaches of the SSSI. Water vole is listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Ballingham Island consists of a length of the River Wye and a section of the adjoining land. There is abundant {\it Ranunculus fluviatilis} in the river and marginal {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The vegetation of the SSSI is described in detail under the entry for CL76, Clifford common.

The adjoining land supports an improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with occasional {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica, Poa} sp. and {\it Trifolium repens}. There is a {\it Salix} sp. pollard on the river bank.

The separate small part of the common (excluded from the SSSI) supports tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Conium maculatum, Calystegia sepium, Cirsium palustre, Humulus lupulus} and scattered scrub of {\it Salix fragilis, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Acer campestre}.

MANAGE:
The grassland part of the common forms part of a larger field grazed by sheep. It has evidently been heavily improved with fertilsers and possibly reseeded, being dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with scattered {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}. The separate small part of the common was fenced off from the field and apparently unmanaged. There was some dumped garden refuse on this part of the common.


FAUNA:
Carrion crow was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Ballingham Common is situated on a steep north-facing slope overlooking the Wye valley. 

The vegetation at the eastern end consists of semi-natural broadleaved woodland of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Salix capraea} and {\it Prunus avium}. The understorey is composed of {\it Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Cornus sanguinea} with very occasional {\it Ilex aquifolium} and {\it Ribes rubrum} and the groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides} and locally {\it Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum, Ranunculus repens, Fragaria vesca, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Blechnum spicant} (in the old quarry).

The remainder of the common is dominated by continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub including {\it Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and locally {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Urtica dioica} with scattered scrub at the south-western end of the common.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged except for some woodland clearance beneath overhead cables.


FAUNA:
Mallard with young and the butterflies gatekeeper and meadow brown were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Weobley Marsh is a low-lying area of common land adjacent to a stream. The common is of importance for the grassland communities supporting areas of unimproved neutral grassland. The unimproved grassland consists of frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with occasional {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Plantago lanceolata, Cerastium fontanum, Lotus corniculatus, Linum catharticum, Dactylis glomerata, Galium verum, Centaurea nigra, Agrimonia eupatorium, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Briza media, Deschampsia cespitosa, Lathyrus pratensis, Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Vicia cracca}. Local species recorded include {\it Pulicaria dysenterica, Juncus articulatus, J. inflexus, Plantago major, Ononis spinosa?} and {\it Pimpinella saxifraga}. {\it Potentilla erecta, Primula veris, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Clinopodium vulgare} were rare. {\it Ophioglossum vulgatum} was recorded in 1993. 

Elsewhere on the common the grassland appears to have been heavily improved supporting a {\it Lolium perenne} and {\it Trifolium repens} dominated grassland with occasional {\it T. pratense, Plantago lanceolata, Cerastium fontanum} and {\it Odontites vernus}.

{\it Apium nodiflorum} was recorded in the stream bordering the common with {\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum} on the banks.

MANAGE:
Weobley Marsh is regulated by a scheme made by former Weobley Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The common is grazed all year round and was being grazed by some sheep, two horses and geese at the time of the site visit. There can be up to six horses grazing at any one time. Grazing levels are quite high and could have a deleterious effect on the unimproved grassland communities. Parts of the common are mown. Parts of the common have undoubtedly been improved and this could pose a threat to the remaining unimproved areas.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. As for Maund Bryan common (CL 2) curlew and snipe are known to visit the area (A. Brian, 1986).

VEG:
Upper Maund and Whitechurch Maund commons lie just to the south of Maund common in a tributary valley to the River Lugg. They are crossed by a stream. 

A large proportion of Upper Maund common has been improved, supporting a grassland of frequent {\it Lolium perenne} with {\it Urtica dioica, Juncus inflexus, Trifolium repens, Dactylis glomerata, Leontodon autumnalis, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Cirsium arvense}, locally with {\it Salix alba} and {\it S. fragilis} pollards and a small area of {\it Salix cinerea} scrub. There is a small pond on this part of the common surrounded by {\it Salix fragilis} pollards and tall ruderal vegetation. At the road junction there is a small area of marshy grassland supporting {\it Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Filipendula ulmaria, Angelica sylvestris, Iris pseudacorus, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Rumex obtusifolius}. There are two {\it Populus nigra} in the hedgerow bordering the common on the opposite side of the road. 

The remainder of Upper Maund common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. with occasional {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Lolium perenne, Agrimonia eupatorium, Holcus lanatus, Dactylis glomerata, Geranium dissectum} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera} with local {\it Galium mollugo} and {\it Lamium album} and the tall ruderal species {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex crispus, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Urtica dioica}. Locally there are some old pollards of {\it Salix alba} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The stream running through this section supports {\it Valeriana dioica, Equisetum arvense, Apium nodiflorum, Calystegia sepium, Epilobium hirsutum, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Pulicaria dysenterica}. There is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation on the opposite side of the road with a line of planted {\it Populus nigra 'Italica'}. The hedges surrounding this section are species-poor {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Prunus spinosa} with occasional {\it Cornus sanguinea, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana} and locally {\it Salix alba} pollards.

The southern end of CL30 is Whitechurch Maund common. South of the lane there is an area of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale} agg., occasional {\it Ranunculus repens, Centaurea nigra, Lotus pedunculatus, Festuca rubra, Deschampsia cespitosa, Dactylis glomerata, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and rarely {\it Rumex acetosa} and {\it Silaum silaus}. There is an area of scrub on the opposite side of the road of {\it Rosa} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. with occasional {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} beneath.

MANAGE:
The central part of this common was enclosed with electric fencing at the time of the site visit but there was no stock on. A strip of Upper Maund common was ploughed in 1984 (A. Brian,1986) which is probably that area now supporting improved grassland. A. Brian also refers to one commoner letting rights to a non-commoner who overgrazes the common and uses electric fencing and artificial fertilizers, probably on this part of the common. Draining of the Upper common has also undoubtably had a detrimental effect on the flora. 

The other sections of the common were largely unmanaged. The {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland on Whitechurch Maund common may be unimproved, the poor flora being as a result of poor management. With more appropriate management the flora here may improve. A small area outside Maund Cottage is regularly mown. There is a line of planted {\it Populus nigra 'Italica'} on the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit but see under the entry for Upper Lugg Meadow (CL34).

VEG:
Lower Lugg meadow is one of a series of commons along the river Lugg east of Hereford (see CLs 34, 98, 100 and 148). Most of these commons are still managed as Lammas Land (see management section). There is no public access to this common and the following description is based on an NVC survey by J.Bingham 25.06.90. 

Most of the common supports improved and semi-improved neutral grassland with small areas of unimproved grassland. However, many of the species that occur within the SSSI on Upper Lugg meadow (CL34) were recorded, although at a lower frequency. {\it Alopecurus pratensis} and {\it Lolium perenne} were frequent with occasional {\it Bromus commutatus, Cynosurus cristatus, Poa trivialis} and {\it Festuca rubra}. The herbaceous component included frequent {\it Ranunculus acris, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and the nationally scarce* {\it Oenanthe silaifolia} (locally forming quite dense patches) and occasional {\it Trifolium pratense, Lathyrus pratensis, Rumex acetosa} and locally frequent {\it Allium vineale}. Additional species recorded include {\it Cerastium fontanum, Geranium dissectum, Stellaria graminea, Centaurea nigra, Leucanthemum vulgare, Silaum silaus, Trifolium pratense, Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it L. corniculatus}. 

* 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:
For the management of Lammas Land see under the entry for Upper Lugg Meadow (CL34). At the time of the site visit the hay crop had been taken but there was no grazing stock on. There is an active commoners association: Lower Lugg Meadow Commoners.


VEG:
Woodalls Green is a small, level area of common land near Staunton-on-Wye crossed by a track. It supports continuous scrub and marshy grassland with a small area of continuous bracken. 

The scrub comprises {\it Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Salix cinerea} locally with some dead {\it Ulmus procera?}. The groundflora beneath comprises frequent {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Calystegia sepium} with occasional {\it Stachys sylvatica, Heracleum sphondylium, Chamerion angustifolium} and local {\it Ranunculus repens, Dactylis glomerata, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}. 

The marshy grassland is composed of {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Epilobium hirsutum, Cirsium arvense, Calystegia sepium, Angelica sylvestris, Vicia cracca, Hypericum perforatum, Pulicaria dysenterica, Centauria nigra} with occasional {\it Salix cinerea} and locally {\it Iris pseudacorus, Apium nodiflorum} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}.

The common is bordered to the north-east by a species-poor hedgerow of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sambucus nigra}.

MANAGE:
Woodalls green is regulated by a scheme made by the former Weobley Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. It is currently unmanaged and the footpath and bridlepath signposted across the common virtually impassable. The only rights on this common are for estovers. The rank marshy grassland, becoming invaded by scrub, is apparently unimproved and could be enhanced by appropriate management such as grazing although it is a very small area now and there are no grazing rights. In the absence of management it will soon become overgrown with scrub. Some dumped gravel was noted on the common.


MANAGE:
Regulated by a scheme made by the former Weobley                      Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899.


VEG:
Knapton Green is situated on the Honeylake brook on the A4110 north-west of Hereford. It was rather overgrown and impenetrable and therefore only surveyed from the roadside. The vegetation near the roadside consisted of tall ruderal vegetation dominated by {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Urtica dioica}, occasional {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Dactylis glomerata} and locally frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Aegopodium podagraria}. Scattered scrub occurs through this area comprising {\it Betula pendula, Salix cinerea, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Beyond are areas of {\it Salix fragilis}.

MANAGE:
Knapton Green is unmanaged, overgrown and becoming encroached with scrub. The area is possibly an overgrown wet pasture. Temporary fencing would have to be erected if the common was to be grazed as it opens onto a main road. A small layby has been cleared by the roadside and some dumped garden rubbish was noted. The common is subject to bylaws made under the Commons Act 1899.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. Rabbit, nuthatch, tree creeper, chiffchaff, spotted flycatcher, wood warbler, willow warbler, blackcap, whitethroat, greater spotted woodpecker, mallard and coot were recorded in 1982/83 (HNT records). Spotted flycatcher is listed on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Voles, bats, frogs, toads and newts were also recorded on the common in the same years.

VEG:
Meer common is situated near Woonton in western Herefordshire and supports several habitats. At the southern end is an area of semi-improved neutral grassland with abundant {\it Holcus lanatus} and occasional {\it Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens, Phleum pratense, Plantago lanceolata, Ranunculus acris, R. repens, Centaurea nigra, Lotus pedunculatus, Calystegia sepium, Cirsium arvense, Deschampsia cespitosa, Heracleum sphondylium, Potentilla anserina, Galeopsis tetrahit, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. is encroaching onto this area from the woodland.

The woodland is dominated by {\it Salix fragilis} pollards with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus} sp. The understorey is dominated by {\it Corylus avellana} coppice with some {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Salix cinerea} and the groundflora consists of {\it Urtica dioica, Stellaria holostea, Stachys sylvatica, Geranium robertianum, Hedera helix, Dryopteris filix-mas, Galeopsis tetrahit, Arctium} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There is a pond within the woodland with only a little {\it Lemna} sp.

There is an area of improved {\it Lolium perenne} dominated grassland to the north and an area of continuous scrub comprising {\it Salix} spp.

Additional species recorded from the common in 1982/83 (HNT records) include {\it Ranunculus flammula, Cardamine pratensis, Malva moschata, Geranium pratense, Lathyrus linifolius, Filipendula ulmaria, Potentilla erecta, Geum urbanum, Lythrum portula, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Angelica sylvestris, Primula vulgaris, Myosotis scorpioides, Scrophularia auriculata, Galium palustre, Succisa pratensis, Epipactis helleborine, Arum maculatum, Viola} sp. and {\it Dactylorhiza} sp.

MANAGE:
Part of the southern area of grassland is cut and possibly grazed. Scrub from the woodland is encroaching on the grassland area. The improved grassland is regularly mown (by local residents?). The woodland area is unmanaged and the pond here would probably benefit from being opened up. Botanically the common appears to have deteriorated since it was surveyed in 1982/83 when the grassland was described as unimproved and herb-rich. This is probably as a result of poor management. The common is subject to bylaws made by Leominster District Council.


FAUNA:
House martins were observed flying over the river during the site visit and there were a lot of fry in the river. A small tortoiseshell butterfly was recorded on Bibletts Island. The fauna of the SSSI is described in detail under the entry for CL76, Clifford Common with the exception of water vole and the dragonfly {\it Orthetrum cancellatum} (at the north-western edge of its distribution) which occur along the middle reaches of the SSSI. Water vole is listed on the short-list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Bibletts common and Bibletts island comprise one of two areas of common land on the edge of the River Wye near Hoarwithy. Over half of the area consists of sections of the River Wye with abundant {\it Ranunculus fluviatilis} and limited marginal vegetation with {\it Glyceria maxima}. The vegetation of the SSSI is described in detail under the entry for CL76, Clifford common.

The remainder of Bibletts Island consists of improved grassland as described for Ballingham Island (CL26) (both commons now lying within the same field) with occasional {\it Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens} and {\it Leontodon autumnalis} along the top of the river bank. 

The remainder of Bibletts common consists of a road, small car park and a narrow strip of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Impatiens glandulifera, Symphytum} sp. and {\it Calystegia sepium} with scattered scrub of {\it Sambucus nigra, Salix} spp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg.

MANAGE:
Bibletts Island is part of a much larger field which has evidently been heavily improved and is used for sheep pasture. 

There is a small layby on Bibletts common with a stile access into the adjoining field. This is not a public right of way but possibly a fishing access. Bibletts common is unmanaged and some dumping of garden waste was noted.


FAUNA:
Only rabbit was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
King's Thorn common comprises three sections separated by the A49 and A466. The common lies on a west facing slope from 130m to almost 200m above sea level. 

The westernmost part largely supports semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Holcus lantus}, occasional {\it Ranunculus repens, Taraxacum officinale, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium pratense, T. repens, Heracleum sphondylium, Festuca rubra, Lathyrus pratensis} and locally {\it Centaurea nigra} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There are some scattered young trees at the north-western end ({\it Populus} sp?) and a couple of large {\it Quercus} sp. There was apparently a springline running through this section but there was no public access to that part of the common. The strip of grassland along the roadside also supported {\it Lolium perenne, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Anthriscus sylvestris} and the scattered trees here were of {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} and {\it Salix x chrysocoma}. {\it Blackstonia perfoliata, Medicago lupulina} and {\it Centaurium erythraea} were recorded from a small area of road verge between the A466 and A49 at the northern end of the central section of the common.

The eastern two sections are largely wooded. The canopy consists of {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and the understorey {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Ribes rubrum, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer campestre, Ulmus glabra, Rosa} sp. and {\it Taxus baccata}. Groundflora species recorded include {\it Hedera helix, Geranium robertianum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Geum urbanum, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Mercurialis perennis}. At the easternmost end of the common the woodland was damp with a canopy of {\it Salix fragilis} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, an understorey of {\it Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Salix capraea} and a groundflora of {\it Urtica dioica, Pteridium aquilinum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Epilobium hirsutum}. To the south of this area is an area of continuous {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub. Also at this end of the common there is an area of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (locally scattered) with some {\it Chamerion angustifolium} and {\it Cirsium arvense} and locally scattered scrub of {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Corylus avellana}. Additional species recorded from the hedgerows include {\it Prunus domestica, Clematis vitalba, Ulmus glabra, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium} and locally {\it Alnus glutinosa} on the western part of the common.

A fairly broad strip along the roadside of the central portion had been concreted and was being used to park roadwork machinery on and there were a bus stop and layby on the eastern end of the common.

MANAGE:
King's Thorn common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Hereford Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. 

The western part of the common was mown along the roadside and infrequently cut (possibly for hay) elsewhere. The majority of the area was enclosed, possibly for grazing although there was no evidence of recent grazing (the sward being somewhat coarse). Part of this area had also been newly planted with trees. There was further tree planting along the roadside on this part of the common. Some dumped garden rubbish was noted on the western end of the common (for burning?). 

The woodland areas were apparently unmanaged. There has been encroachment of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scrub on the eastern end of the common. 

A fairly broad strip along the roadside of the central portion had been concreted and was being used to park roadwork machinery on and there were a bus stop and layby on the eastern end of the common.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel, rabbit, robin and blackbird were recorded during the site visit. Ant hills were present.

VEG:
Honeymoor common is a level area of common land in the Wye valley, west of Hereford. The majority of the common supports semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Festuca rubra, Agrostis capillaris} and occasional {\it Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus repens, Cirsium arvense, Achillea millefolium, Cerastium fontanum, Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia cespitosa} (locally frequent), {\it Lotus corniculatus, Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Trifolium repens, Carex hirta, Potentilla reptans, Dactylis glomerata, Pulicaria dysenterica} and locally {\it Potentilla anserina}. {\it Galium verum} was recorded on the anthills with {\it Galeopsis tetrahit} between.

Two of the ponds on the common were still evident although mainly dry at the time of the site visit. The pond at SO436385 only had standing water at the southern end supporting {\it Typha latifolia} and {\it Sparganium erectum} with {\it Salix fragilis} on the banks. The remainder of the pond supported tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Epilobium hirsutum} with frequent {\it Pulicaria dysenterica} and occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} with scattered {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Quercus robur, Ulex} sp. and {\it Salix} sp. scrub. The pond at SO437383 was dry at the time of the site visit although apparently seasonally wet, supporting a carpet of {\it Eleocharis palustris} with {\it Mentha aquatica} and {\it Glyceria} sp. (classified as inundation vegetation) bordered by a fringe of {\it Rumex obtusifolius, Sonchus arvensis, Angelica sylvestris, Epilobium hirsutum, Urtica dioica} and {\it Juncus effusus}.

There are areas of continuous scrub on the common, notably in the west, predominantly of {\it Salix} spp. and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with very little vegetation beneath. {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. is encroaching on the common along the south-western boundary.

MANAGE:
The half of the common nearest the road had been cut and was being grazed by sheep. The uncut half had a greater frequency of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} possibly indicating less management of this half or perhaps a wetter area. The coarser, tussocky vegetation may be of importance as an invertebrate habitat. The restoration of the ponds could provide additional important habitat. There is some scrub encroachment on the common particularly from the hedgerows. There has been some drainage of the common.


FAUNA:
Wren, bullfinch and blue tit were recorded during the site visit. Bullfinch is listed on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. In the site management plan (1995) the presence of barn owl and the micromoth {\it Coleophora inulae} on the common were listed as of high national importance, nightingale of high regional importance and the invertebrates {\it Coleophora follicularis, Trachysmia inopiana, Mompha bradleyi} and {\it Epermenia illigerella} of high local importance. Anthills are present on the common.

VEG:
Littlemarsh common is a small, low lying area of common land in the Wye Valley west of Hereford. It is of high national importance for species rich marshy grassland (1995 management plan) and designated an SSSI. 

At the time of the site visit the grassland was very tall with frequent {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Pulicaria dysenterica}, locally abundant {\it Calystegia sepium} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Arrhenatherum elatius, Centaurea nigra, Sonchus arvensis, Lathyrus pratensis, Rumex obtusifolius, Dactylis glomerata, Odontites vernus, Mentha aquatica, Holcus lanatus, Hypericum perforatum, Ranunculus repens, Stellaria graminea, Festuca rubra, Silaum silaus, Carex hirta, Plantago lanceolata} and locally {\it Vicia cracca} and {\it Carex pendula}. Scrub comprising {\it Salix capraea, Corylus avellana, Quercus robur, Fraxinus excelsior, Salix fragilis, Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Euonymus europaeus, Betula pendula, Viburnum opulus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp. is encroaching around the edges. A young {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} has been recently planted on the common. Additional species mentioned in the SSSI citation include {\it Ononis spinosa, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Alchemilla vestita, Succisa pratensis} and in the wetter parts {\it Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Scrophularia auriculata}. The Trust management plan (1995) lists {\it Spiranthes spiralis} as occurring on the common and considered of high local importance.

At the north-western end of the common a small area of woodland has established with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and occasional {\it Quercus robur}, an understorey of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana} and {\it Sambucus nigra} and a groundflora comprising {\it Hedera helix, Geum urbanum, Urtica dioica, Rumex sanguineus, Glechoma hederacea} and {\it Festuca gigantea}.

MANAGE:
The common appears unmanaged. In 1982 the common was still occasionally grazed although described as neglected tall grassland with invasive trees and scrub (Phase 1 survey, A.Whitbread). Invasive trees and scrub are still threatening the grassland and tall ruderal species such as {\it Epilobium hirsutum} may have increased in abundance. The mixture of grassland, semi-aquatic areas and scrub is described in the SSSI citation as providing an important habitat for a good variety of birds (including the nightingale) but needs to be managed to prevent further encroachment and the amount of scrub possibly reduced in extent to increase the area of species-rich grassland. It may be appropriate to maintain the scrub on a small scale rotation of coppicing. The common is in urgent need of grazing, the vegetation probably needing to be cut first as it is so tall. The unmanaged tall grassland will probably lose diversity as the taller dominant species outshade the more diminutive species. A young {\it Aesculus hippocastanum} has been planted on the common.


VEG:
Ruckhall common consists of a network of lanes and small areas of common land on the River Wye west of Hereford. The majority of the small areas of common land support broadleaved woodland comprising a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Quercus robur} and very occasional {\it Salix fragilis, Prunus avium} and {\it Acer campestre}, an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Sambucus nigra, Ulmus glabra} and {\it Prunus spinosa} and a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Geum urbanum, Circaea lutetiana, Pteridium aquilinum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Mercurialis perennis, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Ribes rubrum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Primula vulgaris}. An ancient {\it Fagus sylvatica} was noted in the northern wooded section. {\it Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Larix decidua} were recorded from the strip of woodland adjacent to the River Wye. The verges bordering the lane running along the Cage Brook valley support a woodland flora comprising {\it Mercurialis perennis, Geum urbanum, Bromopsis ramosa, Urtica dioica, Hedera helix, Rumex sanguineus, Ribes rubrum, Dryopteris dilatata, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} fringed with {\it Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}.

The northern end of the common bordering the River Wye supports {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with tall ruderal species such as {\it Urtica dioica, Impatiens glandulifera, Artemisia vulgaris, Silene dioica, Bryonia dioica, Symphytum} sp. and {\it Aegopodium podagraria} with scattered scrub of {\it Ulmus glabra, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Symphoricarpos albus}. The extreme northern end supports a stand of {\it Urtica dioica}. A similar stand of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and tall ruderal vegetation (without scattered scrub) exists at the western end of the woodland bordering the river Wye. 

The small areas of common in the village support a mown grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne}. 

Hedgerows bordering the lanes support {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulmus glabra}.

MANAGE:
The small areas of grassland in the village are regularly mown, the remainder of the common being largely unmanaged. There has been some planting of ornamentals in the woodland bordering the River Wye. Some dumping of garden waste and refuse was noted where the common slopes off steeply behind properties.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. For a description of the fauna associated with the SSSI please see the entry for CL 83, Sheershill and Nanny Quarry commons.

VEG:
Monument common is one of a group of three commons on Common Hill and forms part of Common Hill SSSI. It is situated on a generally southwest-facing slope on past quarried? land. The geology of the area is Silurian Wenlock Limestone and Ludlow Shales which have given rise to freely-drained calcareous soils. The common supports continuous scrub similar to that found on CL83 comprising {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa, Ulmus glabra, Acer campestre, Quercus petraea, Cornus sanguinea, Crataegus monogyna, Taxus baccata, Ligustrum vulgare, Prunus avium} with a groundflora of {\it Hedera helix, Daphne laureola} and {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium}. (See also the entry for CL83, Sheershill and Nanny Quarry commons, for a general description of the SSSI).

MANAGE:
Monument common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Hereford Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. A strip of scrub beneath overhead cables had been cleared across the common. Some dumping of rubbish was noted on the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit. 

The majority of this common lies within the Common Hill SSSI. The SSSI is noted for a rich invertebrate fauna including the locally uncommon butterflies brown argus, dingy skipper and marbled white and the nationally scarce butterflies wood white, pearl-bordered fritillary and white-letter hairstreak. Pearl-bordered fritillary is listed on the short list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Three nationally scarce moths also occur on the SSSI; six-belted clearwing, cistus forester and {\it Stigmella prunetorum}. The areas of grassland support glow-worms. Fallow deer, green woodpecker, long-tailed tit, and the butterflies marbled white, silver-washed fritillary, common blue, gatekeeper, small and large skippers, meadow brown, ringlet and speckled wood were recorded from the SSSI in 1991.

VEG:
Shearshill and Nanny Quarry commons together form one of three commons on Common hill. Much of this unit lies within the Common Hill SSSI. It lies on a steep south-west facing slope. The geology of the area is Silurian Wenlock Limestone and Ludlow Shales which have given rise to freely-drained calcareous soils. A scarp slope runs along the north-eastern edge and the common has been quarried in the past, at least in part.

Much of the common supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The canopy consists of {\it Quercus petraea} with occasional {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Understorey species include {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with occasional {\it Taxus baccata, Acer campestre, Rosa canina, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}. The groundflora includes {\it Bromopsis ramosa, Daphne laureola, Mercurialis perennis, Clematis vitalba, Geum urbanum, Viola} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The ancient broadleaved woodland on the SSSI in general is considered to contain a mosaic of four types of woodland of restricted national distribution with locally abundant {\it Sorbus torminalis} and {\it Taxus baccata}. A few specimens of the nationally scarce* {\it Tilia platyphyllos} are present. The {\it Quercus petraea} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} woodland associated with {\it Ulmus glabra} that occurs on the common is only found on Silurian Limestones in the West Midlands. Additional understorey species listed for the SSSI include {\it Viburnum lantana} and {\it Euonymus europaeus}. The nationally scarce* {\it Helleborus foetidus} is present in the woodland areas of the SSSI together with locally uncommon species such as {\it Platanthera chlorantha, Epipactis helleborine} and {\it Iris foetidissima}. 

The area of continuous scrub supports {\it Acer campestre, Fraxinus excelsior, Prunus spinosa, Taxus baccata, Cornus sanguinea, Crataegus monogyna, Laburnum anagyroides, Pyrus communis, Ligustrum vulgare, Prunus avium, Ulex europaeus, Acer pseudoplatanus, Rosa} sp. and locally {\it Symphoricarpos albus}. There is little groundflora with {\it Daphne laureola, Hedera helix} and locally {\it Melica uniflora, Phyllitis scolopendrium} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

There are a few small pockets of unimproved calcareous grassland with frequent {\it Centaurea nigra, Bromopsis erecta, Origanum vulgare}, locally frequent {\it Thymus polytrichus} and occasional {\it Briza media, Sanguisorba minor, Plantago media, P. lanceolata, Lotus corniculatus, Daucus carota, Achillea millefolium, Galium verum} and {\it Pimpinella saxifraga}. {\it Lathyrus latifolius, Knautia arvensis, Helianthemum nummularium, Centaurea scabiosa} and {\it Hypericum perforatum} were also recorded. The largest area of grassland on the common had been mown and planted with trees (mapped as J5 adjacent to the private property on the common). It was not possible to survey this area due to the mowing and lateness of the season. {\it Cirsium eriophorum, C. acaule, Blackstonia perfoliata} and {\it Lithospermum officinale} have been recorded from the grassland areas of the SSSI.

* 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:
Sheershill and Nanny Quarry commons are regulated by a scheme made by the former Hereford Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The common appears largely unmanaged. A few small areas of grassland appear to be regularly mown and the largest area, adjacent to the property on the common, is regularly mown and has been planted with trees and appears to be being treated as an extension to the existing garden. Frequent mowing is likely to be deleterious to the species-rich turf and as the trees grow they will shade out the grassland. However in the absence of any management the grassland would become encroached with scrub. Some dumping was noted on the common.


MANAGE:
Regulated by a scheme made by the former Hereford Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899.


FAUNA:
Mole, rabbit and the butterflies red admiral, gatekeeper and small skipper were recorded during the site visit. 33 species of bird were recorded November '82 - March '83 including woodcock, meadow pipit, fieldfare, redwing, song thrush, mistle thrush, marsh and willow tits, linnet, redpoll, bullfinch and yellowhammer. Song thrush is listed on the short list and bullfinch on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

VEG:
Broadmoor common is situated on a level hill top east of Mordiford. The common overlies Silurian rocks of the Llandovery Series (calcareous sandstones and siltstones) and Woolhope Limestone which have given rise to sandy loams and clay loams. 

A detailed survey was carried out in 1983 by Hereford and Worcester County Council. The main grassland type was described as tussocky, winter-flooded pasture dominated by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Agrostis canina} with pockets of permanently wet and marshy grassland. Additional grass species recorded were {\it Alopecurus geniculatus, Poa pratensis} and {\it P. trivialis} with the associated species {\it Carex ovalis, C. panicea, Juncus effusus, J. conglomeratus, J. inflexus, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Cirsium arvense, C. palustre, Cardamine pratensis, Trifolium repens} and {\it Bellis perennis}. The {\it Juncus} spp. are locally more frequent together with the additional species {\it J. acutiflorus} and {\it J. articulatus}. Uncommon species recorded were {\it Calluna vulgaris, Dactylorhiza maculata} and {\it Galium saxatile}. There was a small area of marshy grassland supporting abundant {\it Alopecurus geniculatus} and {\it Glyceria fluitans}.

In the drier areas a {\it Centaurea nigra-Cynosurus cristatus} type grassland was recorded. Typical associates included {\it Lolium perenne, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Danthonia decumbens, Poa pratensis, Festuca rubra, Agrostis capillaris, Briza media} and {\it Holcus lanatus} with {\it Agrimonia eupatorium, Primula veris, Lotus corniculatus, Veronica officinalis, Bellis perennis, Lathyrus nissolia, Trifolium campestre, Plantago media, Centaurea nigra, Alchemilla vulgaris, Pedicularis sylvatica, Galium verum, Pilosella officinarum, Helianthemum nummularium, Leontodon hispidus, Sanguisorba minor, Prunella vulgaris, Potentilla anserina, Ononis spinosa, Thymus polytrichus, Potentilla erecta, Achillea millefolium, Carex hostiana, C. caryophyllea} and {\it C. flacca}. {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} is locally dominant on the ungrazed road verges.

Much of the grassland was becoming encroached with {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub, locally with {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Salix} sp. Locally the scrub was developing into {\it Betula pendula, Quercus robur} and {\it Salix} sp. woodland. These areas were very dense with little or no groundflora. At the far eastern end of the common {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Corylus avellana} were also present with a groundflora largely of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The woodland in the north-eastern corner was more open with {\it Acer campestre, Betula pendula, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Quercus robur, Salix cinerea, Daphne laureola, Ilex aquifolium, Ligustrum vulgare, Prunus domestica, Ribes rubrum, R. uva-crispa, Sambucus nigra, Cornus sanguinea} and {\it Viburnum opulus}. The groundflora was very rich with 44 species recorded including {\it Anemone nemorosa, Angelica sylvestris, Stachys officinalis, Circaea lutetiana, Eupatorium cannabinum, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Filipendula ulmaria, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Galium odoratum, Lonicera periclymenum, Mercurialis perennis, Moehringia trinervia, Sanicula europaea, Tamus communis, Teucrium scorodonia, Viola riviniana, Athyrium filix-femina, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas, D. affinis, Polystichum setiferum, Juncus conglomeratus, J. effusus, Agrostis canina, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Poa nemoralis}. This high diversity could be as a result of the proximity of the large Haugh Wood.

There was a small pond at the extreme western end of the common adjacent to the road which was drying up. It supported {\it Glyceria fluitans} and {\it Lemna} sp. and was bordered by {\it Salix fragilis}. There was a second pond next to Broadmoor farm which had dried up supporting {\it Juncus} dominated marsh.

At the time of the site visit the majority of the grassland appeared to be in very good condition, locally very diverse with frequent {\it Centaurea nigra} and occasional {\it Agrimonia eupatorium, Silaum silaus} (locally frequent), {\it Lotus pedunculatus, Galium verum, Dactylis glomerata, Angelica sylvestris, Achillea ptarmica} (locally frequent), {\it Alopecurus pratensis, Holcus lanatus, Cerastium fontanum, Ranunculus repens, R. acris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Stachys officinalis, Succisa pratensis} (locally frequent), {\it Leucanthemum vulgare, Potentilla erecta} and locally {\it Ononis spinosa, Briza media, Pulicaria dysenterica, Lathyrus pratensis, Juncus articulatus}. {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Ranunculus flammula} are locally abundant with occasional {\it Juncus conglomeratus}. {\it Danthonia decumbens, Senecio erucifolius, Galeopsis tetrahit, Pedicularis sylvatica} and {\it Mentha arvensis} were also recorded. The area of grassland between the two minor roads was fenced off and was being grazed so it was not possible to survey this part. However, the grassland seemed similar to elsewhere on the common with abundant {\it Centaurea nigra}. There were also large blocks of {\it Ulex europaeus} on this part of the common. The grassland to the north-west is less diverse with more frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and appearing semi-improved. The small area of marshy grassland still remains with abundant {\it Ranunculus flammula, Glyceria fluitans, Alopecurus geniculatus, Deschampsia cespitosa} and occasional {\it Galium palustre} and {\it Carex} sp. Between the property and the road on the northern section of the common is an area of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Calystegia sepium} with scattered {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Betula pendula}. Scrub encroachment was noted along the northern boundary.

{\it Fraxinus excelsior} was also recorded from the woodland at the northern end of the common but was not resurveyed in detail, being fairly dense around the edges. Some marshy pockets were noted amongst the scrub and woodland with {\it Juncus articulatus} and {\it Carex panicea}. The pond at the western end of the common was not revisited.

MANAGE:
Broadmoor common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Ledbury Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. It is managed as an LNR by Hereford and Worcester County Council. Management proposals made in the 1983 botany report were the reduction and maintenance of {\it Ulex europaeus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub in areas where grassland persists beneath the scrub and removal of invasive trees (some to be left for birds), consultation with local commoners to arrive at an arrangement where there is an appropriate grazing regime advantageous to the grassland (preferably limited to the winter and early spring months) and if grazing is not possible, then the introduction of a mowing regime with hay cut in early spring and a second cut in autumn, some thinning of woodland to improve the groundflora, the improvement and maintenance of paths, clearance and maintenance of ponds (possibly a section at a time) and pollarding of overgrown {\it Salix fragilis}. It was noted that it would be necessary to install cattle grids if grazing was to be introduced. Some occasional storing of agricultural machinery on the common had been noted and was not to be encouraged. It was recommended to retain a 'low key' management policy and not to develop the area as an amenity area. The common was considered to be too small and open and that any such development could put the wildlife at risk.

At the time of the site visit some of the grassland areas were fairly rank but parts had been fairly well grazed. The triangle of land between the two minor roads was temporarily fenced off and was being grazed by approximately 35 young cattle. There had possibly been a reduction in the amount of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} here and an increase in diversity reflected by the abundance of {\it Centaurea nigra} noted, probably as a direct result of the grazing. There had been some scrub clearance in this area and at the northern end of the common. There were two small enclosures at the northern end of the common with {\it Betula pendula} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. scrub. There is a small car park at the eastern end of the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna was observed during the site visit. The common, together with the adjacent Big and Little Million (CL100), is described by HNT to be good for water and marshland birds with overwintering flocks of swans including some Bewick swans. Snipe, nesting curlew and skylark are regularly recorded. When flooded the area is visited by flocks of lapwing and kingfisher, moorhen, heron and reed bunting occur along the river. Reed bunting is listed on the middle list of globally threatened/declining species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The area is fairly certainly frequented by otters.

VEG:
Hampton Meadow is one of a series of commons along the river Lugg east of Hereford subject to winter flooding (see CLs 34, 35, 100 and 148). The River Frome also borders this common feeding into the River Lugg at the southern end of the common. These commons are still managed as Lammas Land (see management section). The common was subject to a Phase 2 survey in 1990 which forms the basis of this report.

Hampton meadow supports a semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Poa trivialis, Cynosurus cristatus, Festuca rubra}, the nationally scarce* {\it Oenanthe silaifolia} and {\it Ranunculus repens} with occasional {\it Agrostis capillaris, A. stolonifera, Alopecurus pratensis, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Bromus hordaceous, Holcus lanatus, Anthriscus sylvestris, Cerastium fontanum, Heracleum sphondylium, Leontodon autumnalis, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla reptans, Rumex acetosa, R. crispus, Taraxacum officinale, Trifolium dubium, T. pratense} and {\it T. repens}. {\it Lathyrus pratensis} was locally frequent, {\it Lotus corniculatus} locally occasional and {\it Centaurea nigra} was rare. {\it Bromus commutatus, B. x pseudothominei, Helictotrichon pratense, Hordeum secalinum, Cardamine pratensis, Ranunculus bulbosus, R. repens, Rhinanthus minor} and {\it Tragopogon pratensis} have also been recorded from the common by HNT.

There is a small area of {\it Urtica dioica} on the river bank at the southern end of the common with {\it Tanacetum vulgare, Schoenoplectus lacustris} and scattered {\it Salix} spp. and {\it Alnus glutinosa} elsewhere along the river banks. H. Stace also recorded {\it Sparganium erectum, Phalaris arundinacea, Caltha palustris, Linaria repens} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} on the banks in 1993. 

The north-eastern boundary is bordered by a species-poor hedgerow predominantly of {\it Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Prunus spinosa} and {\it Salix alba} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees. 

* 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:
Hampton Meadow is an old Lammas Meadow along with CLs 34, 35 and 147 (see under the entry for CL34 for an explanation of the management of Lammas meadows). Only two of the stones which marked the ownership of the meadow still remain {\it in situ}. Before the Herefordshire Nature Trust purchased the majority of the common, that proportion was owned by a single owner and there was only one active commoner besides. Historically the common would have been under multiple ownership. This situation could have enabled the owner to improve the meadow and to cease the traditional management as has happened to other Lammas meadows in the country. Now the common has a more secure future being managed in the traditional way as a nature reserve by HNT. According to HNT the common has never been ploughed and has never had artificial fertilisers applied. The low diversity could be due to a natural high soil fertility due to annual flooding. Another reason suggested for the low diversity is that on several occasions in the recent past the common has been grazed all year round instead of being laid up for hay as is traditional with Lammas meadows. Unimproved lowland hay meadow is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The common supports a very good population of the nationally scarce {\it Oenanthe silaifolia} described by J. Bingham (1990) as 'at least as dense, or greater, than the best areas of the SSSI'. 

At the time of the site visit the common was being grazed by cattle. In October 1993 11 cows and 174 sheep were counted by H. Stace. There is a commoners association (Hampton Bishop Commoners) but they had not met for many years.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit but see under the entry for the adjacent Hampton Meadow (CL98).

VEG:
Big and Little Million is one of a series of commons along the River Lugg east of Hereford, subject to winter flooding (see CLs 34, 35, 98 and 148). Back Brook also borders this common, the surviving mill race for the former Hampton Mill. The common is traditionally a Lammas meadow (see under management section). The common was subject to a Phase 2 survey in 1990 which forms the basis of this report. The common was being grazed at the time of the 1990 survey.

The common supports a similar semi-improved neutral grassland to Hampton Meadow (CL98), but less diverse (tending towards improved grassland), with frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Ranunculus acris} and {\it Poa trivialis}. {\it Trifolium repens, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Cirsium arvense} are also frequent with occasional {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Hordeum murinum}. Abundant {\it Polygonum aviculare} was recorded near the gate at the southern end of the common with {\it Stellaria media} and {\it Capsella bursa-pastoris}.

{\it Calystegia sepium, Linaria vulgaris, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Epilobium hirsutum} were recorded along the banks of the River Lugg and there was an attractive border of {\it Salix alba, S. fragilis, Alnus glutinosa} and some dead {\it Ulmus} sp. trees along the edge of Back Brook.

MANAGE:
Traditionally Big and Little Million is a Lammas meadow (see explanation under CL34). There was no grazing stock on at the time of the site visit, and in 1990 the common was being grazed by cattle in May (normally when Lammas meadows are closed for hay). There was a lot of disturbance around the gate and track to the bridge crossing to Hampton Meadow with some species typical of such habitats ({\it Polygonum aviculare, Stellaria media, Hordeum murinum} and {\it Capsella bursa-pastoris}). The poor species diversity and presence of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Cirsium arvense} suggest this common has been improved and/or subject to heavy grazing. There is a commoners association: Hampton Bishop Commoners.


VEG:
Coed Moor common is a low lying area of common land to the southwest of Hereford. It supports an improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with abundant {\it Trifolium repens}, frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Bellis perennis, Cerastium fontanum, Agrostis capillaris, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Hypochaeris radicata}. The common is bordered to the north, east and south with species-poor hedgerows (locally defunct) of {\it Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Acer campestre} and {\it Corylus avellana}. There are a few {\it Quercus} sp. trees along the northern boundary.

MANAGE:
Clearly the common has been heavily improved. There was no stock on at the time of the site visit but the common had been grazed by sheep. There was a large manure heap on the common and a stack of straw bales. There was some dumped rubbish on the track leading to the southeastern corner of the common and a large tree trunk placed across the gateway access to the common at this corner.


FAUNA:
No fauna was observed during the site visit. The butterflies wood white, green hairstreak (1984 only), purple hairstreak, silver-washed fritillary, small, dingy, grizzled and large skippers, clouded yellow (1983 only), brimstone, large, small and green-veined whites, orange tip, small copper, common and holly blues, red admiral, painted lady, small tortoiseshell, peacock, comma, speckled wood, wall brown, gatekeeper, meadow brown and ringlet were recorded from the common 1983-1988 (Hereford and Worcester County Council records). A similar list of butterflies has been recorded from the common since 1990 (Butterfly Conservation Society Records) with the addition of white letter hairstreak. A long list of moth records was compiled in 1983.

VEG:
Checkley common is one of a group of 7 commons on the Woolhope Dome to the north-east of Mordiford (see also CLs 106 and 107, the other four are less than 1ha), lying in a west facing valley. The Woolhope Dome is a geological inlier, a dome which has been eroded leaving an area of old rocks surrounded by younger ones. In this case Silurian rocks are surrounded by Old Red Sandstone with more or less concentric rings of Silurian limestone and shale around a central area of sandstone in Haugh Wood (HNT Guide to Nature Reserves).

The common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Hypericum perforatum, Centaurea nigra, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra} and occasional {\it Clinopodium vulgare, Vicia cracca, V. sativa, Agrimonia eupatorium, Stachys officinalis, Heracleum sphondylium, Plantago lanceolata, Galium verum, Rhinanthus minor, Hypochaeris radicata, Trifolium pratense, Anthriscus sylvestris} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Senecio erucifolius, Pimpinella saxifraga, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} occurred locally and {\it Ononis repens} was also recorded. The grassland on the south-eastern spur of the common is less diverse with abundant {\it Trifolium repens}, frequent {\it Lolium perenne} and occasional {\it Plantago major}. There are locally scattered trees and scrub amongst the grassland of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus robur} and {\it Malus} sp. 

Around the periphery of the common and a small area along the roadside, are areas of broadleaved woodland and continuous scrub. The canopy of the woodland consists of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula} in varying proportions with {\it Acer campestre} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} in the understorey. The groundflora along the roadside is dominated by {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. The areas of scrub comprise {\it Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Salix fragilis, S. capraea, Prunus spinosa, Ulmus glabra, Prunus domestica, Quercus} sp. and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. 

A list of 130 species of plants has been compiled for the common (1989, Hereford and Worcester County Council records) including, in addition to the above, {\it Achillea ptarmica, Alchemilla vulgaris, Clinopodium ascendens, Cardamine pratensis, Centaurium erythraea, Campanula rotundifolia, Cruciata laevipes, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Genista tinctoria, Geranium columbinum, Helianthemum nummularium, Kickxia elatine, Leucanthemum vulgare, Linum catharticum, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Narcissus pseudonarcissus?, Ophioglossum vulgatum, Ornithopus perpusillus, Pastinaca sativa, Polygala vulgaris, Primula veris, Pulicaria dysenterica, Silaum silaus, Succisa pratensis, Verbascum thapsus, Veronica beccabunga}, the nationally scarce* species {\it Potentilla neumanniana} and {\it Lathyrus palustris?} and the woodland species {\it Anemone nemorosa, Arum maculatum, Circaea lutetiana, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Fragaria vesca, Galium odoratum, Geum urbanum, Lamiastrum galeobdolon, Mercurialis perennis, Primula vulgaris, Stellaria holostea} and {\it Viola} spp. 

* 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:
Checkley common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Hereford Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The common has not been grazed since 1984 and has been invaded by coarse grasses and scrub (and locally {\it Pteridium aquilinum}), and has probably suffered some loss in diversity. The grassland is probably unimproved (except for the south-eastern corner), but classified as semi-improved due to a decline in diversity due to poor management. Since 1984 the common has received annual mowing (time variable). The road and track verges are more frequently mown. Unimproved lowland hay meadows are one of the key habitats in th UK Biodiversity Action Plan. 

Management proposals made by Hereford and Worcester County Council include scrub clearance (particularly along the woodland edges), pond clearance (there were four ponds on the common all of which have silted up and become overgrown with scrub), continued frequent cutting of the road and track verges and annual cutting of the majority of the common with parts cut on a two year cycle. An annual cut in the absence of grazing is usually insufficient to maintain a species-rich grassland, at least two cuts per year (late summer and autumn) is usually considered to be the minimum. The grassland cut on a two yearly cycle is where scrub clearance was planned along the edges of the woodland which will provide an important edge habitat for fauna. Some of the scattered trees and shrubs are to be retained. A lot of the scrub clearance appeared to have taken place. 

Some encroachment on the common was observed in 1990, particularly in the south east corner where there was an accumulation of broken agricultural machinery, pallets, tyres and building materials. This has been removed.


VEG:
Swilgrove common is one of a group of 7 commons on the Woolhope Dome to the north-east of Mordiford (see also CLs 105 and 107, the other four are less than 1ha). It is situated on a small spur in the hillside dropping away to the north and south. The common supports continuous scrub with semi-natural broadleaved woodland to the north. It is bordered by plantation woodland to the north.

The scrub is dominated by {\it Crataegus monogyna} with {\it Euonymus europaeus, Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Corylus avellana, Rosa} sp. and {\it Quercus} sp. supporting a groundflora of {\it Geranium robertianum, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Mercurialis perennis, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia}. Where the scrub is more open {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occurs and remnants of grassland similar to that found on the nearby Checkley Common (CL105). 

The woodland to the north has a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp. with {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula}. The understorey comprises {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Corylus avellana} with a groundflora of {\it Pterdium aquilinum, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasionally {\it Stellaria holostea, Dryopteris filix-mas, Deschampsia cespitosa, Fragaria vesca, Carex sylvatica?, Euphorbia amygdaloides, Viola} sp. and the bryophytes {\it Eurynchium praelongum} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. There is some {\it Quercus} sp. leaf litter on the ground.

MANAGE:
Swilgrove common is regulated by a scheme made by the former Hereford Rural District Council under the Commons Act 1899. The common is unmanaged. The small pockets of grassland amongst the scrub perhaps indicate that the common supported grassland which has become encroached with scrub. It may still be possible to extend these areas of grassland through scrub clearance creating a valuable habitat for invertebrates. A number of lepidoptera species recorded on the nearby Checkley common (CL105) may also occur on this common and may be encouraged by increasing the grassland area. There was a caravan on the common.


FAUNA:
A small herd of fallow deer, grey squirrel, chiffchaff and the butterflies speckled wood, red admiral and small tortoiseshell were recorded during the site visit. The butterflies small and large skippers, wood, large, small and green-veined whites, orange tip, white letter hairstreak, common blue, holly blue, small tortoiseshell, peacock, silver washed fritillary, speckled wood, meadow brown, gatekeeper and ringlet were recorded from Backbury common and the nearby Checkley Common (CL105) by the Butterfly Conservation Society 1990-1997.

VEG:
Backbury Common and Backbury Waste lie on Backbury Hill on the edge of the Woolhope Dome north of Mordiford on largely north-facing slopes. The eastern end of the common is on a south-facing slope. The Woolhope dome is a geological inlier, a dome which has been eroded leaving an area of old rocks surrounded by younger ones. In this case Silurian rocks are surrounded by Old Red Sandstone with more or less concentric rings of Silurian limestone and shale around a central area of sandstone in Haugh Wood (HNT Guide to Nature Reserves).

The majority of the common is covered with continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with scattered scrub (becoming locally dense). {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Holcus mollis} and {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} occur amongst the {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

At the northern and eastern ends are areas of semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The woodland to the north has a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp. with occasional {\it Betula pendula} and locally dominant {\it Prunus avium}. There is a lot of {\it Ulmus procera} along the edge and {\it Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Acer campestre, Euonymus europaeus, Prunus spinosa, Rosa arvensis, Acer pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Taxus baccata} in the understorey. Groundflora species recorded were {\it Geranium robertianum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Alliaria petiolata, Tamus communis, Stellaria holostea, S. media, Dryopteris filix-mas, Milium effusum, Hedera helix, Daphne laureola, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Galium aparine, Lonicera periclymenum, Rumex sanguineus, Bromopsis ramosa, Geum urbanum, Silene dioica, Teucrium scorodonia, Melica uniflora, Digitalis purpurea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and the bryophytes {\it Mnium hornum} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. The woodland is fairly young and open with {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Ulex europaeus} and {\it Chamerion angustifolium} in the openings. 

At the eastern end of the common the woodland canopy is of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and a large mature {\it Fagus sylvatica} with {\it Corylus avellana, Castanea sativa, Crataegus monogyna, Taxus baccata} and {\it Acer campestre} in the understorey. Groundflora species recorded include {\it Mercurialis perennis, Hedera helix, Tamus communis, Dryopteris filix-mas, D. dilatata, Circaea lutetiana, Melica uniflora, Milium effusum, Euphorbia amgydaloides, Geum urbanum, Geranium robertianum, Rumex sanguineus, Clematis vitalba, Lonicera periclymenum, Daphne laureola, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Viola} sp.

MANAGE:
An unmanaged common largely encroached with continuous bracken and scrub.


VEG:
Eastbury Hill 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 102).

The common supports broadleaved woodland of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Quercus} sp. and {\it Fagus sylvatica}. There is a {\it Salix x chrysocoma} at the northern end of the common. The understorey comprises {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior, Ilex aquifolium, Corylus avellana, Fagus sylvatica, Crataegus monogyna, Acer campestre, Sambucus nigra, Taxus baccata}, dying {\it Ulmus procera} and locally {\it Prunus avium}. Groundflora species recorded include {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercurialis perennis, Geranium robertianum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Hedera helix, Urtica dioica, Circaea lutetiana, Geum urbanum, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Stellaria holostea}.

MANAGE:
The common is probably largely unmanaged. Regeneration of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} was observed. A narrow strip had been cleared through the woodland at the northern end of the common beneath overhead cables. A well maintained footpath crosses the common.


VEG:
Hackley common is situated on a gentle south-east facing slope on the edge of Sarnesfield coppice north of Sarnesfield. There is no public access to the common. A public footpath passes close to the south-western corner from which the common was viewed.

The common appears to support an improved grassland sward being fairly uniformly bright green with scattered {\it Cirsium} sp. or {\it Urtica dioica}. A small corner to the north-west was not visible from the footpath. A small corner of Sarnesfield coppice forms part of the common with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Quercus} sp. and {\it Betula pendula}. 

There is a strip of {\it Populus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} woodland to the north of the track at the south western corner of the common with an understorey of {\it Corylus avellana, Crataegus monogyna, Ulmus glabra, Prunus spinosa, Lonicera periclymenum} and {\it Cornus sanguinea} and a groundflora of {\it Mercurialis perennis, Rumex sanguineus, Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. {\it Viscum album} was noted in the canopy. Along the south side of the track is a {\it Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedgerow. Further along the track towards the Keeper's Cottage the verges have been gardened. 

The occasional {\it Quercus} sp. tree occurs along the southern boundary and {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} along the eastern boundary. A small pond is marked on the map on the southern boundary.

MANAGE:
The common was being grazed by sheep at the time of the site visit. The common has apparently been improved. The verges along the track towards the Keeper's Cottage have been gardened and some {\it Populus} sp. have been planted along the track in the past.


VEG:
Tarrington common is situated on the north-facing slopes of the Woolhope dome south of the village of Tarrington. The Woolhope dome is a geological inlier, a dome which has been eroded leaving an area of old rocks surrounded by younger ones. In this case Silurian rocks are surrounded by Old Red Sandstone with more or less concentric rings of Silurian limestone and shale around a central area of sandstone in Haugh Wood (HNT Guide to Nature Reserves). There are no public rights of way on the common which is approached by a minor road from the north. 

The northern end of the common supports coniferous plantation of {\it Picea sitchensis, P. abies} and {\it Chamaecyparis lawsoniana} with a few {\it Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and a sparse groundflora of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There are also a few openings with {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Only the northernmost end of the common was visited, but the symbols on the 1:10 000 map suggest much of the remainder is also coniferous plantation. 

Adjacent to the road at the northern end of the common is a small area of tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica, Chamerion angustifolium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Heracleum sphondylium} beneath scattered mature {\it Populus} sp. and also a small area of regularly mown grassland behind a low {\it Fagus sylvatica} hedgerow.

MANAGE:
The common (at least in part) is managed as coniferous plantation. A small area of grassland adjacent to the road is regularly mown.


FAUNA:
Rabbit was recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Shucknall Hill common is situated on a steep south-east facing slope on the edge of the River Frome valley north-east of Hereford. The majority of the common supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland. The canopy is dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Quercus petraea} and locally abundant {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. {\it Pinus} sp. and {\it Castanea sativa} were rare. The understorey comprises {\it Corylus avellana, Ilex aquifolium, Rosa arvensis, Clematis vitalba, Crataegus monogyna} and locally {\it Prunus avium}. {\it Taxus baccata} was rare. Frequent {\it Glechoma hederacea, Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Hedera helix} and occasional {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Clematis vitalba, Hypericum perforatum, Circaea lutetiana} and {\it Geranium robertianum} were present in the groundflora. Other species recorded were {\it Euphorbia amygdaloides, Galeopsis tetrahit, Teucrium scorodonia, Milium effusum} and {\it Melica uniflora}. {\it Vinca minor} was recorded near the cottage at SO589428. There is a small area of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} woodland with occasional {\it Quercus petraea} overlying on old quarry at the south-western end of the common with an understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna} and a groundflora of {\it Urtica dioica, Alliaria petiolata, Hedera helix} and {\it Geranium robertianum}. 

There is a small area of continuous scrub on the common comprising {\it Corylus avellana, Prunus domestica, P. spinosa, Sambucus nigra, Clematis vitalba, Acer pseudoplatanus, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and locally {\it Ulmus procera} suckers interspersed with areas of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. There are also areas of coarse semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata} and {\it Lolium perenne}.

MANAGE:
Some old coppice stools of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} were observed within the woodland area and an area had been cleared beneath overhead cables. There is quite a lot of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} in the woodland (generally considered to be of low conservation value) which, being a vigorous tree, will probably increase and come to dominate more of the canopy. The small areas of coarse grassland are occasionally cut.


FAUNA:
Chiffchaff, jackdaw, blackbird and red admiral butterfly were recorded during the site visit. A cuckoo was heard nearby.

VEG:
Putley common is situated on a gentle east-facing slope on the Woolhope Dome to the north of Putley village. The Woolhope dome is a geological inlier, a dome which has been eroded leaving an area of old rocks surrounded by younger ones. In this case Silurian rocks are surrounded by Old Red Sandstone with more or less concentric rings of Silurian limestone and shale around a central area of sandstone in Haugh Wood (HNT Guide to Nature Reserves). The common supports a mixture of semi-natural broadleaved woodland and areas of semi-improved neutral grassland. 

The woodland canopy consists of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Betula pendula} and {\it Quercus} sp. and the understorey of {\it Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Taxus baccata, Ilex aquifolium, Fraxinus excelsior, Rosa} sp. and {\it Lonicera periclymenum}. Groundflora species recorded were {\it Mercurialis perennis, Circaea lutetiana, Geum urbanum, Dryopteris filix-mas, Pteridium aquilinum, Carex remota, Urtica dioica, Arum maculatum, Geranium robertianum, Sanicula europaea} and {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum}. 

At the western end of the common the grassland is coarse with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Rumex obtusifolius} and invaded with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. There are scattered trees of {\it Quercus} spp., {\it Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Sambucus nigra}. If the pond in this area still exists it is much overgrown with trees and scrub. 

Towards the eastern end of the common the grassland is richer with {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Anthriscus sylvestris, Plantago lanceolata, Alopecurus pratensis, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Trifolium pratense, Leontodon} sp., {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Galium mollugo, Viola} sp., {\it Vicia cracca, Veronica montana, Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus acris, Cirsium palustre, Lotus corniculatus, Galium verum, Medicago lupulina, Filipendula ulmaria, Stachys officinale, Lathyrus pratensis} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. The easternmost end is damper with {\it Juncus inflexus}. {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii} is frequent here and {\it Orchis mascula} was also recorded. Scattered broadleaved trees occur over part of the area and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum} on the damper area.

MANAGE:
The grassland areas are undermanaged, being dominated by coarse grasses, locally with invasive {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and tall ruderal vegetation, and probably only occasionally cut. The grassland at the western end of the common had been cut at the time of the site visit. The grassland at the eastern end of the common could be unimproved with a number of species typical of such grassland present (including two species of orchid) but suffering from poor management. The scattered trees and bracken will shade the grassland and may reduce diversity further. The quality of this area may improve with more appropriate management. Bracken encroachment poses a threat to the community rich in orchids. The woodland is probably unmanaged. There are a few ornamental trees on the common eg. {\it Quercus} sp. and {\it Fagus sylvatica 'Pupurea'}.


FAUNA:
Great tit and small tortoiseshell butterfly were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Monkland Common is situated on Moor Brook in the River Arrow valley to the north-west of the village (south-west of Leominster). The common supports semi-improved neutral grassland of frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Plantago major, Crepis capillaris} and occasional {\it Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale} agg., {\it Leontodon autumnalis, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Centaurea nigra, Arrhenatherum elatius, Achillea millefolium, Hypochaeris radicata, Heracleum sphondylium, Rumex acetosa, Vicia sativa} and {\it Ranunculus repens}. {\it Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Festuca rubra} were locally frequent. {\it Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Lathyrus pratensis} were also recorded. 

There is a small mixed plantation of {\it Salix fragilis, Aesculus hippocastanum, Picea} sp. and {\it Betula pendula 'Dalecarlica'?} adjacent to Willow cottage with {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Heracleum sphondylium, Urtica dioica, Juncus effusus, Stellaria media} and {\it Glechoma hederacea} beneath. There has also been some ornamental planting near the cottages along the northern boundary of the common including {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Laburnum anagyroides} and some conifers. 

Where the stream borders the common there is a fringe of {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Salix fragilis} with {\it Rumex obtusifolius, Urtica dioica, Arctium} sp. and {\it Lamium album} beneath. The remainder is bordered by species-poor hedgerows of {\it Prunus spinosa, Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} with a coniferous plantation to the east.

MANAGE:
There were some geese grazing the common at the time of the site visit and parts of the common are regularly mown. The presence of frequent {\it Plantago major} and {\it Crepis capillaris} indicate the community is fairly disturbed. It was unclear whether the majority of the common was managed for hay, just mown or grazed. There has been some ornamental planting on the common. There are a number of encroachments on the common including scrap cars, old machinery, a caravan and wood piles.


VEG:
Shelwick common is situated adjacent to the River Lugg to the north-east of Hereford. It supports improved grassland dominated by {\it Lolium perenne} with {\it Taraxacum officinale, Dactylis glomerata, Trifolium repens, Plantago major, Achillea millefolium} and {\it Potentilla anserina}, locally with occasional {\it Cynosurus cristatus, Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus acris, Cerastium fontanum, C. glomeratum, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Crepis capillaris}. {\it Trifolium pratense, Phleum pratense} and {\it Torilis japonica} are locally frequent. {\it Plantago major} and {\it Matricaria discoidea} were recorded along the track crossing the common. The easternmost end of the common is now incorporated into the adjoining improved field with scattered {\it Cirsium} sp. There is a narrow strip of {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} dominated grassland to the north of the road on the western end of the common.

There is a small area of {\it Salix alba} woodland with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Hedera helix} beneath and a small area of continuous scrub comprising {\it Sambucus nigra, Prunus spinosa, Symphoricarpos albus} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. {\it Salix alba} also occurs as hedgerow trees. Along the river bank are {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
Two horses were grazing the common at the time of the site visit and the common is also apparently used for excercising/training horses. Grazing is locally heavy. There is no registered rights of pasture for horses. There is a gate at the western end with a small proportion of the common lying outside. The easternmost portion of the common is marked on the commons register as being separated due to bank erosion, but appears to have been incorporated into the adjoining field (also improved pasture). There is some scrub encroachment from the hedgerows ({\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa} sp.).


VEG:
The Lowes is a low-lying area of common land in the River Lugg valley to the north of the Lugg Meadows (CLs 34 and 35). There was no public access to the common but it appeared from the roadside to support improved grassland with {\it Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus} and scattered {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Trifolium pratense} recorded around the gate. The common is bordered by hedgerows which, along the roadside, supported {\it Crataegus monogyna, Lonicera periclymenum, Cornus sanguinea, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasional {\it Salix fragilis} hedgerow trees. The hedgerow trees along the northern hedge were of {\it Salix alba}. The southern hedgerow was defunct and there was a lot of dead {\it Ulmus} sp. in the eastern hedge.

MANAGE:
The common was apparently managed as pasture although there was no grazing stock on at the time of the site visit. It appeared to have been improved. There is internal fencing on the common.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit, but see under the entry for Upper Lugg Meadow (CL34) which includes a description for the Lugg Meadows SSSI within which part of this common lies.

VEG:
Midsummer Meadow lies at the northernmost end of the Lugg Meadows separated by the A4103. The common supports semi-improved neutral grassland with frequent {\it Lolium perenne, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. with occasional {\it Dactylis glomerata, Cerastium fontanum, Ranunculus acris, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Anthriscus sylvestris, Festuca rubra, Plantago lanceolata} and locally {\it Cirsium arvense}. There was no obvious difference between the area lying within the SSSI, but see under the entry for Upper Lugg Meadow (CL34) for a description of the vegetation of the SSSI. There are scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} along the river bank.

The westernmost section is separated from the rest of the common by a {\it Crataegus monogyna} hedgerow with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Salix fragilis} and supports a coarser sward with {\it Heracleum sphondylium, Rumex obtusifolius, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius?} (observed from the roadside). There is locally frequent dead {\it Ulmus} sp. in the bordering hedgerow.

MANAGE:
The common had apparently been cut for hay at the time of the site visit. Unlike the other Lugg Meadows this common is not a Lammas Meadow (for explanation see under the entry for CL34), the meadow is closed for hay between 1st January and midsummer day (presumably the origin of the name of this common) and is not under strip ownership only having a single owner. The coarser nature of the grassland on the separate eastern section suggests this part does not receive aftermath grazing or is perhaps not managed every year.


FAUNA:
A number of mute swans were seen on the river adjacent to the common.

VEG:
Kings Caple common is situated adjacent to the River Wye near the village of Hoarwithy to the north-west of Ross-on-Wye. The vegetation is dominated by tall ruderal vegetation of {\it Urtica dioica} with occasional {\it Cirsium arvense, Impatiens glandulifera, Conium maculatum, Heracleum sphondylium, Symphytum} sp. and locally {\it Pteridium aquilinum} with quite frequent {\it Salix} spp. along the river bank. 

North of Hoarwithy bridge the above vegetation is interspersed with pockets of semi-improved neutral grassland of {\it Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera, Ranunculus repens, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Artemisia vulgaris} (viewed from the roadside only). 

There is much scrub towards the southern end of the common comprising {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Quercus robur, Acer campestre, A. pseudoplatanus, Rosa} sp. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Where the scrub is continuous there is a groundflora of {\it Glechoma hederacea, Urtica dioica, Bryonia dioica} and {\it Hedera helix}. There is also a mature {\it Fagus sylvatica} and a few {\it Pinus} sp. trees on the common. 

The eastern boundary of the common consists of a defunct, species-rich hedgerow of {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Euonymus europaeus, Corylus avellana, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. Species rich hedgerow is one of the key habitats in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. To the north of Hoarwithy bridge this boundary consists of {\it Populus nigra 'Italica'}.

MANAGE:
The area to the north of Hoarwithy bridge is apparently still grazed to a certain extent. The remainder of the common is unmanaged and overgrown with {\it Urtica dioica} with scrub encroachment to the south. Some {\it Populus nigra 'Italica'} have been planted along the eastern boundary of the common at the northern end and there are a few {\it Pinus} sp. trees on the common.


FAUNA:
Grey squirrel and woodpigeon were recorded during the site visit. A buzzard was heard nearby.

VEG:
Waste common is situated on the west-facing valley side of the Sapey Brook (a tributary to the River Teme) in the east of the county. A steep sided tributary valley also crosses the common. The common has partly been planted with {\it Picea sitchensis} with only the occasional fern in the groundflora. The northern end supports semi-natural broadleaved woodland with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and some {\it Fagus sylvatica}. The understorey comprises {\it Corylus avellana, Acer campestre, Taxus baccata} and {\it Ribes uva-crispa} and the groundflora, frequent {\it Hedera helix, Mercurialis perennis, Brachypodium sylvaticum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and occasional {\it Stellaria holostea, Circaea lutetiana, Dryopteris filix-mas, Polystichum setiferum?, Oxalis acetosella, Carex pendula, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Deschampsia cespitosa, Geum urbanum, Potentilla sterilis} and {\it Campanula trachelium}. {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Primula vulgaris, Alliaria petiolata, Helleborus} sp. and a variegated {\it Epipactis} sp. were also recorded. This semi-natural broadleaved woodland appeared to continue as a strip along the valley bottom below the plantation (fenced off along a pathway south of the excluded area) although this area was not surveyed. 

There were some coppiced {\it Fagus sylvatica} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus} along the eastern boundary locally with some {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}.

MANAGE:
A large part of the common has been planted with {\it Picea sitchensis}, presumably having replaced the fairly diverse semi-natural woodland which remains at the northern end of the common. No recent management was observed in the semi-natural woodland area. There is internal fencing on the common.


FAUNA:
Breeding birds include occasional Redshank, Yellow Wagtail, Lapwing. In winter Snipe, Teal, Little Grebe, Mute Swan, Gadwall, Shoveler and other wildfowl.  
On visit: Starling, House Sparrow, Linnet, Song Thrush, Yellowhammer, House Martin, Spotted Flycatcher, Blackbird, Black-headed Gull, Swallow, Moorhen (breeding), Dunnock, Kingfisher, Pied Wagtail, Mute Swan, Coot, Greenfinch, Grey Wagtail, Woodpigeon, Mallard. 
Also: Rabbit, Small Tortoishell, Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper.  
Crayfish known from river Lee: also Grass Snake, Water Vole.

VEG:
B4 grassland is close-mown MG7 football pitch, species-poor with occasional scattered Crataegus monogyna. B22 Semi-improved grassland is mainly Lolium perenne and Trifolium repens, with Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus and much Cirsium arvense and Senecio jacobea. Generally species-poor. Other species recorded include Cirsium vulgare, Plantago major, Prunella vulgaris, Carduus nutans, Plantago lanceolata, Potentilla anserina, Matricaria matricarioides, and Capsella bursa-pastoris. Nearer the river in the NE of site, the land is slightly less improved - Agrostis capillaris, Carex hirta, Alopecurus geniculatus and Equisetum sp. present; there are also occasional patches of vegetation similar to this elsewhere on the site. Species recorded in the past by others include Carex panicea, C. nigra, Cynosurus cristatus and Cardamine pratense.  A22: There is some thinly scattered Crataegus monogyna scrub, especially in the north-east of the common.

G115 - Eutrophic canal:  Main Lee Valley canal is deep, with banks covered in rough grassland (MG1 communities), with nettles or bare areas.  Canal contains scattered Glyceria maxima, G. fluitans, Carex riparia, C. acutiformis, Phalaris arundinacea, Filipendula ulmaria, Rumex hydrolapathum and occasional small Alnus glutinosa trees on banks.  Other waterbodies form the boundaries of the site.  Ditch A is shaded by many willows on the south side.  On the common land side are Urtica dioica, Epilobium hirsutum, Sambucus nigra, Dipsacus fullonum, Myosotis scorpioides and Carex acutiformis.  The river Lee has steep banks, predominantly with a nettle cover, or MG1 grassland.  Species include occasional Lycopus europaeus, Glyceria maxima, Juncus inflexus, J. effusus, Epilobium hirsutum, Myosotis scorpioides, Impatiens glandulifera, Carex riparia, Ranunculus repens, Sparganium erectum, Scrophularia sp., Conium maculatum, Veronica beccabunga and Scirpus lacustris.  In the river, there is some Sparganium sp. and Nuphar lutea.

Area (X) is a small car park surrounded by a small plantation of mixed native and ornamental broad-leaves.

MANAGE:
The whole area east of the canal is cattle and horse grazed, with gaps through the fence allowing stock to move to and from CL 171.  77 cattle and 8 horses were counted at the time of the visit. The grazing is patchy, generally at a moderate level, but with some areas of locally high grazing pressure. One area in the centre of the eastern half is close-mown. Most of the western half of the common is a football pitch. This is close-mown, but is cattle grazed in summer too. Weedkillers have been used on the common in the past, which has probably reduced the biological interest. There is some dumping of rubbish in the river. Scrub has invaded to a slight degree in one or  two areas. In general, the grazing on the eastern half is adequate.  The sward is becoming rank in one or two places, but removing this growth would not increase the floral diversity in the short term. On the west side, more native trees could be planted in areas left uncut.


FAUNA:
The common is important for birds - on visit: Spotted Fly-catcher, Blackcap, Chaffinch, Bullfinch, Tree Creeper, Willow Warbler, Woodpigeon, Greenfinch, Chiffchaff, Blue Tit, House Martin, Swallow, Yellowhammer, Carrion Crow, Reed Bunting, Sedge Warbler, Swift, Kingfisher, Wren, Moorhen. Other species recorded include Reed Warbler, Garden Warbler, White- throat, Lesser White-throat, Turtle Dove, Cuckoo, Lesser spotted Woodpecker, Grass-hopper Warbler. In winter - Teal, Snipe, Jack Snipe, Water Rail Siskin and occasional Great Grey Shrike. 
Other vertebrates recorded include Frogs and Grass Snake, and the site holds a large population of Toads. 
Mammals include Muntjac, Harvest Mouse, Hare, Water Vole and Water Shrew. 
7 species of fish have been recorded. 
There has been relatively little work on the invertebrates of the site, although the common is a ISR site grade C. 
21 species of butterfly and 46 species of mollusc have been recorded, and the site appears to have good potential for invertebrates.

VEG:
Marshy grassland and fen, with drier neutral grassland, scrub and woodland. Underlain by acid peat, but base-rich springs provide flushes and freshwater component of site is important; the chalk stream is clear and relatively unpolluted. B21 unimproved neutral grassland is rank and contains Festuca rubra, Dactylis glomerata, Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia caespitosa, Festuca arundinacea, Lotus uliginosus, Lathyrus pratensis and Vicia cracca. B5 marshy grassland contains Caltha palustris, Carex paniculata, Juncus subnodulosus, Iris pseudacorus, Ranunculus flammula, Filipendula ulmaria, Eupatoria cannabinum, Carex acutiformis, Equisetum palustre. This grades into waterlogged F1 swamp, some of which holds mixed tall fen vegetation (e.g. Carex acutiformis/Filipendula/Phalaris) and some of which is dominated by single species, principally Carex acutiformis or Phragmites. Water levels were high at the time of the visit, and there were a few small patches of open water.  The uncommon species recorded in the past from the marshy parts of the common are still present, despite change in the habitat. These include Carex disticha, Rumex hydrolapathum, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, Valeriana dioica and Potentilla erecta.  A21 scrub: there is much scrub on the common, including substantial amounts scattered across the site (A22). Principal species is Crataegus monogyna, with other species such as Rhamnus catharticus and Viburnum opulus.  A111 woodland is wet carr, containing Fraxinus excelsior, Alnus glutinosa, Betula pubescens and planted Salix alba. The HMWT reserve to the north of the common is similar.

MANAGE:
In general terms, the site is drying out due to vegetation productivity and scrub invasion, and the site is now very rank as there is no grazing. However, water levels have been raised in past, and are maintained by a weir in the NE. This appears to have led to renewed waterlogging of parts of site, the maintenance of high  water tables, and the development of fen vegetation, especially Carex  acutiformis. Scrub clearance has been carried out, and there has been limited mowing of vegetation in the past. Other management problems are caused by occasional fires, vandalism and motor bikes. The main management priorities would seem to be the maintenance or raising of water levels, and control of scrub, which has spread considerably in the past decade. Mowing selected areas occasionally would help to provide structural diversity and reduce accumulation of biomass. Areas of Snowberry on the river banks should be removed.


VEG:
Largely secondary scrub (A21) and broad-leaved woodland (A111), largely semi-natural, but with some ornamentals on fringes and gorse on eastern side.  Little ground flora.  The woodland and scrub contains Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Quercus robur, Betula spp., Sambucus nigra and Rubus fruticosus.

MANAGE:
No substantive management at present.  Some recreational pressure keeping tracks open. The scrub and woodland needs thinning in places to form glades or clearings, and promote the development of ground flora. Rides along trackways could also be formed or widened.


FAUNA:
No information recorded for this common.

VEG:
The B22 grassland is largely an improved/semi-improved sward with Anthoxanthum odoratum, Bellis perennis, Rumex acetosa, Rumex sp., Centaurea nigra, Ranunculus acris and Trifolium spp.  The A22 scattered scrub covers c.20% of the site and is dominated by Crataegus monogyna, Ulex europaeus, Rosa sp., Prunus sp., Quercus robur and Endymion non-scripta. The north-east boundary hedge is Crataegus and Corylus avellana.

MANAGE:
The grassland is mown occasionally: the south-eastern part is close mown as a cricket pitch. The scrub is likely to provide valuable cover on the site and should not be cleared.  Continuation of present mowing regime with no grassland improvement would seem to be the best option at this site.


FAUNA:
No information on the fauna of the common. Anthills known to be present.

VEG:
Semi-improved acid grassland with varying amounts of scrub scattered on the site. 
1. B12 area in N/NE: species include Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium sp., Juncus sp., Festuca sp., Campanula rotundifolia, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Galium verum, Stellaria holostea, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta, Quercus robur and Betula sp.  
2. B12 area in NW: Potentilla erecta and Rumex acetosella present c.5-10% scrub.  
3. Central A22 area: Scrub containing Quercus robur, Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula, C. angustifolium, Juncus sp., Prunus spinosa, Fraxinus excelsior and Pteridium aquilinum. Some damp areas.  
4. C3 and A22 at SW end: Heracleum sphondylium, Chamaen. angustifolium, Rosa canina, 50% scrub.  Also Lotus corniculatus, Rumex acetosella, Deschampsia caespitosa, Crataegus monogyna, Fraxinus excelsior, Sambucus nigra. 
5. G1 pond is surrounded by scrub. It holds Lycopus europaeus, Ranunculus flammula, Iris Alisma, Nuphar & Juncus.

MANAGE:
1. B12 in north: Little management, crossed by footpaths. Scrub invasion here. 
2. B12 in NW: Little management, scrub invasion, trampling on paths. Both areas occasionally mown by HCC CMS. 
All other areas are managed occasionally. The pond is silting up, though horses drink at the edge of it.  The area would benefit from scrub control, at least one cut per year of the ranker grassland and tall herb vegetation, with the removal of cuttings, and pond maintenance. Some of this is already carried out by the Herts County Council Countryside Management Service.


FAUNA:
Little information for any group other than invertebrates, though even in this case, few records can be assigned definitely to this part of the old SSSI. It is part of an ISR Site, ungraded, and is likely to have held a good invertebrate fauna but status now unclear. Old records include several rare or uncommon beetles and sawfly, and recent records include chalk downland molluscs, including one of few county sites for the blind snail Cecilioides acicula. Other records include the butterflies Small Blue and Chalkhill Blue. Numerous anthills are present.

VEG:
Mosaic of B32 semi-improved calcareous grassland, B31 unimproved calcareous grassland, woodland and scrub. Unimproved remnants include Carlina vulgaris, Campanula glomerata, Dactylorhiza fuchsii, Polygala vulgaris, Briza media, Poterium sanguisorba, Helianthemum chamaecistus, Scabiosa columbaria, Thymus pulegioides, Centaurea nigra, Rhinanthus minor, Galium verum, Juniperus communis, Pimpinella saxifraga, Linum catharticum. These remnants are scattered on the edges of fairways and in the chalk pit, which is rich in flora and contains Cirsium acaule, Carex flacca and Koeleria macrantha. Coeloglossum viride also present (1987). NVC community CG3a. Semi-improved areas are largely Lolium perenne: parts are NVC MG1. A21 scrub is mainly Crataegus monogyna. A111 woodland areas are mainly Fraxinus excelsior, Fagus sylvatica and Quercus robur, probably developed from scrub.

MANAGE:
The fairways are mown as part of the golf course. There is some rabbit grazing on the unimproved areas. The woodland and scrub is apparently unmanaged or not intensively managed. The management priority is to prevent scrub encroachment onto the remaining areas of unimproved grassland. Grazing would be ideal, but not likely to be feasible. In the absence of grazing, a winter cut with removal of grass cuttings should be carried out.


FAUNA:
No information for the common, but likely to be used as feeding area by birds breeding in gardens nearby.

VEG:
B4 grassland is generally improved, though some areas rank, with Umbellifers.  A111 woodland is Quercus robur dominated, with Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus, Aesculus hippocastanum, Acer campestre and some conifers.  Other species include Crataegus monogyna, Prunus avium, Tilia x europaea, Malus sylvestris, Corylus avellana, Fagus sylvatica, Ilex aquifolium, Betula sp., Sorbus aucuparia, Prunus spinosa and Viburnum lantana. Ground layer includes Holcus mollis, Chamaenerion angustifolium and Lamium album.

MANAGE:
Occasional mowing of grassland areas, with some use of herbicides. Recreation ground area is close-mown. Woodland areas are unmanaged, or not managed intensively. Leaving larger unmown areas around peripheries would enhance value of site, and grass cuttings should ideally be removed wherever possible.


FAUNA:
Little information exists for the common. It is considered to be of limited value for some common birds. It is also an ISR site, ungraded. It was at one time a good butterfly site, but the more interesting species have not been seen for some years - these include Dark Green Fritillary, Brown Argus and Marbled White. There are also records for Hemiptera, but no species of interest.

VEG:
A111 woodland areas are dominated by Quercus robur and Betula pendula. Shrub layer is intermittent with Ilex, Crataegus monogyna and Fraxinus. The ground flora is poor. There are patches of Pteridium and Ulex europaeus on the site. Areas of non-intensively managed acidic and neutral grassland contain a range of herbs. The two central B12 areas hold Ulex Calluna, Potentilla erecta, Campanula glomerata, Galium saxatile and Cytisus scoparius; the 2 western areas of B12 hold Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta and Pteridium. Neutral B22 areas hold Agrimonia eupatoria, Centaurea nigra, Vicea sativa, Lotus corniculatus. Agrostis capillaris, Rumex acetosella and Scabiosa columaria are also found. The ponds are important in a county context: Iris, Lemna sp. with Ranunculus lingua (possibly introduced), Glyceria maxima, Menyanthes, Myosotis scorpioides, Typha latifolia, Ranunculus scleratus and Mentha aquatica present.

MANAGE:
The woodland has developed from heath by cessation of grazing and neglect over 150 years. There has been little recent management of any significance except for some grass cutting, and that related to the golf course and cricket ground. SHMS management plan recommends scrub control and clearance, with pond maintenance and occasional cutting of remaining acid grassland. Fertilisers and weed-killers should not be used. It is essential to keep open the areas of acid grassland in the centre, and also the grassland and heath surrounding the ponds - the ponds have become too shaded in the past.  Herts County Council Countryside Management Service have been carrying out pond clearance, surface horse tracks and managed herb-rich grassland recently. This, together with scrub clearance, should be continued into the future.


FAUNA:
Muntjac and Fallow Deer recorded, also Fox, Mole, Brown Hare, Grey Squirrel, Rabbit.  Birds recorded include Marsh Tit, Nuthatch, Great spotted Woodpecker, Woodcock, Garden Warbler Blackcap, Willow Tit, Turtle Dove and Willow Warbler. All probably breed.

VEG:
A21 scrub is Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, with fringes at south and east of Fraxinus/Crataegus scrub, with woodland flora. In general, the common is scrub developing into woodland on old grazing meadow. Very overgrown with scrub, and only a few open areas with relict marshy pasture. Species recorded from the site include Acer campestre, Agrostis stolonifera, A. capillaris, Alopecurus myosuroides, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Bromus mollis, Carduus crispus, Carex flacca, C. otrubae, Carpinus betulus, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Circaea lutetiana, Cirsium arvense ,C. palustre, C. vulgare, Corylus avellana, Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia caespitosa, Dryopteris filix-mas, Endymion non-scripta, Holcus lanatus, Juncus bufonius, J. effusus, Mentha aquatica, Mercurialis perennis, Prunella vulgaris, Quercus robur, Rhamnus catharticus, Salix capraea and Sambucus nigra.

MANAGE:
Area at SW end of common cleared of scrub in early 1980s, causing a notable increase in Juncus spp. By 1984 this area had become rather rank and species-poor. Corn tailings were dumped on part of the grassland. Grazing ceased on the site in 1962. Most of the interest of the site lies in the remaining grassland. A priority would be to keep this free of scrub, and remove more scrub in the central area, but not too much at the edges, which would open the site to wind. Cutting of the grassland would also benefit the sward. Herts County Council CMS has also removed dead elms and erected a notice board.


FAUNA:
Following species recorded: Linnet, Yellowhammer, Cuckoo, Lizard, Rabbit. Several species of dragonfly recorded. Butterflies recorded include Essex Skipper, Small Tortoishell, Small Skipper, Small White, Large White, Peacock, Gatekeeper.

VEG:
Acid/neutral grassland, with heath scrub and pond. River margins are important. B11 area: in NE Ranunculus flammula, Cardamine pratensis, Filipendula ulmaria; drier in S with Galium saxatile, Rumex acetosella, Potentilla erecta. B5 area contains Juncus acutiflorus, Carex ovalis, Scirpus setaceus, Stellaria alsine. River (G2) holds Berula erecta, Butomus umbellatus, Alisma, Potamogeton densus. D11 acid heath has Calluna vulgaris, Ulex minor and Genista anglica. There is a degenerate hedge in the middle and several boundary hedges. Otherwise, rest of site holds Lotus corniculatus, Centaurea nigra, Phragmites australis, Mentha aquatica, Ulex europaeus, Arrhenatherum, Deschampsia caespitosa, Typha latifolia, Lycopus, Epilobium hirsutum, Pteridium, Danthonia decumbens. Uncommon species in Herts include Moenchia erecta, Ornithopus perpusillus, Carex demissa and Salix repens. Scrub cover locally dense - Ulex Cratagus, Rosa, Salix and Quercus sp.

MANAGE:
See SHMS management plan. Some areas are presently cut annually, and other work carried out by HCC CMS includes control of horse-riding by establishing well-signed perimeter routes. The mowing is carefully monitored to prevent damage to botanically rich areas. However, the site appears to be becoming more mesotrophic, in the absence of grazing. Management plan advises annual late winter cutting and removal of cuttings, scrub clearance, bracken control and pond maintenance. No drainage on the site should occur. The heathland areas probably need periodic cutting or burning to maintain heather. It is essential to prevent the grassland from becoming too rank and stop further scrub encroachment.


FAUNA:
Little information exists for the site. On visit: Song Thrush, Wren, Yellowhammer, Wood Pigeon, Chaffinch, Magpie, Greenfinch, Reed Bunting, Blue Tit, Goldfinch, Pheasant, Collared Dove, Starling.

VEG:
Species-rich marshy meadow, with good colony of orchids Dactylorhiza spp. Acidic marshy grassland areas have abundant Juncus inflexus, Caltha palustris, Epilobium hirsutum, Eleocharis palustris, Veronica beccabunga, Mentha aquatica and orchids D. fuchsii, D. praetermissa, D. incarnata with hybrids. Neutral grassland: southern area higher with Cirsium arvense, Arrhenatherum elatius. Wet area near entrance dominated by Glyceria plicata. In 1979 Alchemilla vestita and Isolepis (Scirpus) setaceus recorded. Other species: Cardamine pratensis, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Ranunculus flammula, Carex nigra, C. panicea, C. hirta, Prunella vulgaris and Pulicaria dysenterica. General dominants in the neutral grassland area Alopecurus pratensis, Deschampsia caespitosa with much Senecio jacobea and J. inflexus. Luzula campestris frequent. Several tall herb areas. Some scattered Crataegus scrub, and hedges around the edge are quite thick.

MANAGE:
Grazed by cattle and horses. Scrub and thistle clearance has occurred, and mowing in the late summer also, in the past. The site was damaged by Electricity Board in 1987 - vehicle ruts. Mowing and topping carried out by the Trust in 1987. In general, the present management appears to be preserving the interest of the site, although there is no information on the actual stocking levels. At time of visit, there were 8 cattle, 1 horse and 2 donkeys present. Grazing regime was judged adequate by NCC in 1988 - largely a Jersey/Guernsey herd. All grazing rights are not exercised - if this occurred, the common would probably become overgrazed.


FAUNA:
The two small ponds contain or support several interesting invertebrates, especially spiders. The common is an ISR site, grade B, and many rare or uncommon species have been recorded in the past (mainly prior to 1950), including a number of RDB species. More recent notable B or local species have been predominantly Linyphiid spiders. On our visit: Bullfinch, Blue Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Robin; Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown; Enallagma cyathigerum, Aeshna grandis, Aeshna cyanea, Libellula depressa and Sympetrum striolatum. The common is likely to be of importance still.

VEG:
Much of the site is secondary oak woodland developed on heathland, but there are areas of ancient hornbeam coppice, especially in the east. Dominant or frequent species include Quercus spp., Betula spp., Carpinus betulus and Corylus avellana. The woodland ground flora is dominated by Rubus fruticosus and Mercurialis perennis. Mutchetts Wood adjacent to site is probably ancient and contains largest colony of Epipactus purpurata in Hertfordshire. Clearings are dominated by Pteridium (C11), with patches of B11 acidic grassland and some Calluna Species in these areas include Molinia caerulea, Danthonia decumbens, Polygala serpyllifolia, Juncus bufonius, Succisa pratensis and Dactylorhiza maculata. Grassland dominated by Agrostis capillaris and Holcus lanatus. The open areas have been invaded by scrub (A22), but there is much Frangula alnus as well as Betula spp. The site is quite wet, and the ponds contain much Sparganium erectum, and several other species.

MANAGE:
Mowing, some slight drainage and litter clearance has been carried out recently, together with some scrub clearance and bracken control. A gas pipeline also led to scrub and bracken clearance. Ponds have dried out in the past, and burning has decreased in frequency, allowing scrub colonisation. Site has diminished in value for invertebrates due to scrub and loss of heath. HMWT produced management plan in 1978 - proposals therein seem valid still: mowing, scrub clearance and renewed coppicing in woodland areas, especially in the hornbeam woodland.  It would seem that the greatest priority is conservation of the remaining open areas. This is being undertaken by a management group, organised by HCC CMS. Scrub clearance is now frequent and heather regeneration by scarification and seeding into bare ground has been tried and appears to be working, at least in small areas. Old trees and dead wood should be left for invertebrates.


FAUNA:
On visit: Wren, Wood Pigeon, Stock Dove, Blackbird, Magpie, Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher. 
Rabbits, Moles.

VEG:
The whole common is a fenced woodland, with scattered understorey shrubs but little ground flora. Canopy is dominated by tall ash Fraxinus and sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, which also forms a frequent understory species. There is one patch of larch in the NE. Other species include Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna (some tall), Acer campestre and some suckering elm Ulmus sp. The woodland floor is often bare or with accumulations of leaf litter. Species present include Poa trivialis, Galium aparine, Glechoma hederacea, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Ribes nigrum, some small regenerating ash, but main ground layer species are Mercurialis perennis and Urtica dioica, which is very abundant in places. The wood is very shady and has much bare ground. There is some dead wood.

MANAGE:
No recent management was apparent. The wood needs thinning, and perhaps one or two clearings would benefit the ground flora. Sycamore regeneration should be thinned in favour of ash. The  wood has probably developed from grassland long ago, with the registered rights remaining, though clearly untenable now.


