# file3

FAUNA:
Chiffchaff and meadow brown butterfly were recorded during the site visit. The following is an extract from the SSSI citation of which only the north-eastern end is common land:

"The site is noted for the presence of the dragonfly {\it Sympetrum scoticum}, a northern species with a very local distribution in SE England.

The site is notable for the large breeding population of Shelduck, with up to 100 pairs nesting. The surrounding heathland is an important breeding site for Nightjars. Other local breeding species are Tree Pipit and Grasshopper Warbler and both Redshank and Curlew have nested. There is a colony of Sand Martins in the exposed face of the sand pit."

Dersingham bog SSSI is a RAMSAR site, qualifying in part by virtue of supporting an important assemblage of invertebrates including the proposed Red Data Book species {\it Choristoneura lafauryana, Buckleria paludum} and {\it Yponomeuta rorella} (moths), the proposed RDB flies {\it Allodia angulata, Odinia ornata} and {\it Dichetophora finlandica}, the RDB flies {\it Eudorylas terminalis} and {\it Homoneura interstincta} and the RDB water beetle {\it Enochrus isotae}. 

According to the LNR management plan, which relates to the SSSI part of the common, previous surveys of the main SE-NW ditch (forming the south-western boundary of the western section of the common) have indicated it is of aquatic invertebrate interest.

VEG:
Section 1 (west of the A149):

Along the eastern edge is an area of {\it Populus tremula/Betula} sp. woodland. Along the footpath along the northern boundary, there is an area of {\it Quercus robur/Betula} sp. woodland with a ground flora of scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and locally occasional {\it Molinia caerulea}. There is an extensive open area of wet heath/bog, south of the footpath, supporting {\it M. caerulea, Erica cinerea/Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Sphagnum} sp. There are scattered {\it Betula pendula/pubescens} and {\it Pinus sylvestris}. {\it Phragmites australis} stands were evident in the distance (along drains?). No further survey of this part of the common was carried out. 

This part of the common has been subject to a National Vegetation Classification survey (1990, in LNR Management Plan). Five community types were identified on the open wet heath/mire areas of the site: M21 {\it Narthecium ossifragum-Sphagnum papillosum} valley mire, M16 {\it Erica tetralix-Sphagnum compactum} wet heath, M25 {\it Molinia caerulea-Potentilla erecta} mire (not on the common itself), M2 {\it Sphagnum recurvum} bog pools and H9 {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath.

M21 dominates the southern part of the common. "This community occurs on the permanently waterlogged peaty area. It is most commonly found on areas where the water table is at or near the ground surface throughout the year.

The presence of {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos} places it into the {\it V. oxycoccos-Sphagnum recurvum} sub-community. Many species typical of this community eg. {\it Polygala serpyllifolia} and {\it Potentilla erecta} were present in the community but not in sufficient numbers to appear in any of the sample quadrats."

M16 occupies the central area of the northern half of the common. "This vegetation type occurs on those substrates experiencing seasonal waterlogging. There is abundant {\it Sphagnum} cover and the rare mosses {\it Dicranum spurium} and {\it Sphagnum molle} were both recorded for this community.

Nationally this community is confined to the southern and eastern lowlands of Britain and is associated with the peripheries of valley mires which experience a locally high water table."

M2 forms a mosaic locally with both M16 and M21. This community type is found on wet, base poor raw peats on topogenous mires. 

H9 {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath is of rather limited occurrence, found in the better drained areas of the site. The community was placed in the {\it Molinia caerulea} sub-community. In the more ill-drained areas the {\it Molinia} sub-community can be seen as a transition to {\it Erica tetralix} wet heath. {\it Calluna-Deschampsia} heath can be found in zonation with wet heath and mire vegetation where the major influence on floristic variation is natural difference in moisture content. The area sampled was very species deficient with bryophytes and lichens poorly represented."

An area of {\it Molinia caerulea-Myrica gale-Phragmites australis} vegetation towards the eastern end of the common could not be assigned to an NVC community. This would appear to be a transitional community on the drier margins of the valley mire, possibly proceeding to swamp.

The north-eastern sector of the mire was also surveyed by Wanda Fojt (1987), the following summary extracted from the E.Anglian valley Fen Dossier:

"Detailed quadrat analysis and maps of vegetation in area to be damaged by proposed by-pass. Communities represented were ({\it inter alia}): {\it Erica tetralix-Sphagnum compactum} wet heath, {\it Molinia caerulea-Potentilla erecta} mire, {\it Salix cinerea-Betula pubescens-Phragmites australis} woodland and {\it Betula pubescens-Molinia caerulea} woodland. 

Peat cutting in wet heath has given wetter areas with {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Eleocharis multicaulis, Drosera intermedia} etc. In the {\it Molinia-Potentilla} mire there is much {\it Phragmites australis}. In this area, also blocked ditches have created pools with {\it Carex rostrata, Juncus bulbosus} and {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius}, whilst areas with some base-enrichment also have {\it Juncus subnodulosus}."

This part of the common forms the northernmost point of the Dersingham bog SSSI described as the largest and most intact example of an acid valley mire in East Anglia. {\it Myrica gale} is mentioned in the SSSI citation as a common shrub on the mire forming a dense area of scrub with {\it Betula pendula} at the northern end of the site. The uncommon {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos} and {\it Rhynchospora alba} occur on the bog.

Section 2 (east of the A149 and north of Heath Road):

This part was not surveyed in 1997. This part of the common is designated a County Wildlife Site described as follows:

"This is an area of neglected common land which until about 50 years ago was largely covered by {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heathland. Only a very small remnant of this now remains due to extensive scrub invasion and subsequent development of secondary woodland. Areas of acidic grassland occur where trampling and grazing exclude {\it C. vulgaris}...

The principal area of heathland is found towards the south of the site. Here the heather is mostly mature with both building and degenerate phases present.

Well drained acidic grassland is restricted to the tracks and paths and to a small clearing in the north west. The sward is generally very short and is characterised by {\it Agrostis capillaris, Festuca} sp., {\it Rumex acetosella} and bryophytes. Along the track margins and where grazing pressure is reduced, a longer sward has developed comprising {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis vinealis} and {\it C. vulgaris}. {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} are becoming established in places.

A large area of semi-natural high forest lies to the north east and consists primarily of {\it Quercus robur} and {\it Betula pendula} with occasional {\it Crataegus monogyna} over a {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. field layer. {\it C. vulgaris} is occasionally present towards the peripheries.

To the west there is an extensive stand of {\it Ulex europaeus}. This is very dense and uniform throughout, reaching at least 2m in height.

Continuous {\it P. aquilinum} occurs on the western scarp which drops down to the road."

Section 3 (east of the A149 and south of Heath Road):

The northern part of this area supports dense {\it P. aquilinum} with scattered {\it Betula pendula} trees and {\it Crataegus monogyna} and occasional stands of {\it Chamerion angustifolium}. Patches of acid grassland were noted along the footpath. This habitat grades into patchy {\it B. pendula} woodland with scattered {\it Quercus robur} and a ground flora of dense {\it P. aquilinum} and locally frequent {\it Rubus fruticosus}. {\it Populus tremula} was occasional and {\it Betula pubescens} locally frequent and there was occasional {\it Molinia caerulea} along the footpath. {\it Rhododendron ponticum} was locally abundant in the southern half. {\it M. caerulea} was dominant in the ground flora in some areas of the woodland. A few {\it Betula} may be old coppice but most are tall and spindly with high crowns (trunk diameters 4 to 25cm ACH). Regeneration is good. There was good {\it Populus tremula} regeneration along the footpath. Other species recorded include locally frequent {\it Lonicera periclymenum} and occasional {\it Malus} sp., {\it Salix cinerea, Pinus sylvestris} (mostly young trees) plus {\it Pinus} sp. Occasional {\it Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Teucrium scorodonia}, mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} (especially associated with {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Dicranum} sp.), locally abundant {\it Impatiens?} sp. (near stream) and locally occasional {\it Rumex acetosella} were recorded along the footpath. The stream was almost stagnant, full of opaque, rusty brown material.

This part of the common is also a County Wildlife Site with the following site description:

This is a large and gently undulating area of common land which was once dominated by ericaceous heath but is now covered with extensive stands of well-established {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and secondary woodland. Small areas of heath and acid grassland remain.

The majority of the {\it Calluna vulgaris} and acidic grassland occur together in a mosaic now confined to rabbit grazed patches and path edges, notably in the north eastern corner. Here the vegetation is often disturbed with frequent patches of bare sand. The very short sward mainly comprises {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Rumex acetosella} and bryophytes with {\it C. vulgaris} present in less tightly grazed areas. {\it C. vulgaris} is also occasionally found forming the field layer in wooded areas.

Continuous stands of bracken with scattered {\it Betula pendula} are dense over much of the site, often grading to secondary woodland. In lower areas the ground becomes wetter with thick bracken litter over sand supporting frequent {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Juncus effusus}. A small area in the north supports {\it Ulex europaeus} with occasional {\it C. vulgaris}. {\it Rhododendron ponticum} and patches of {\it Prunus spinosa} are frequent near the boundary.

Secondary mixed woodland occupies a large percentage of the site and includes {\it Quercus robur, Betula pendula} and {\it Pinus} sp. with occasional {\it R. ponticum} in the understorey over a sparse ground flora. {\it Lonicera periclymenum} is very abundant as a climber. Towards the east, the woodland includes more mature {\it Q. robur} with coppiced {\it Betula pendula} often reaching the canopy. {\it C. vulgaris} and {\it Molinia caerulea} are present along the rides and occasionally where the canopy is more open.

Two small streams pass through the site, concealed by dense {\it Salix} sp. coppice. The vegetation here includes {\it Epilobium hirsutum, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Cardamine amara}.

MANAGE:
Section 1

The following information is reproduced from the LNR management plan:

The management of Dersingham Bog LNR primarily requires a reduction in the amount of scrub and subsequent management to prevent reinvasion. Areas of dry heath may be expanded by removal of areas of woodland which have retained a ground layer of heather. A belt of woodland should be retained around the edge of the site in order to form a boundary between the bog and the surrounding roads.

Drying out of the site will lead to a change in communities and may lead to a loss of some species which require a constantly high water table. Construction of a sluice at the northern end of the SE-NW drainage ditch will enable the water level to be controlled and ensure that the bog pools and associated species are maintained. The removal of trees/scrub will also help to reduce water loss which would otherwise occur due to evapo-transpiration.

A programme of management is required to encourage a diversity of age structure in the heather areas. Grazing and burning are historically the traditional methods of maintaining the various communities on the site. However logistic difficulties mean that the establishment of a grazing regime is not a viable option at present and since there is no evidence of grazing having occurred at Dersingham Bog it is not considered as a management option for the period of this plan. Burning generally reduces floral diversity and encourages growth of {\it Molinia} and {\it Calluna} to the cost of other species and areas which have previously been subjected to accidental fires show a reduced diversity of species in the herb layer. Consequently mowing/cutting would be the most suitable option for the site. The areas of heather can be conveniently divided into 3 compartments with a third of each compartment being cut in consecutive years (i.e. a 9 year rotation).

Possible future management may include cutting areas of peat to produce new areas for regeneration in the mire/wet heath. However, for the period of this plan it is considered that raising the water table and subsequent monitoring may be sufficient to maintain and enhance the communities on the site. Previous surveys of the fauna of the main SE-NW ditch have indicated it is of aquatic invertebrate interest. A rotational programme of clearing vegetation/scrub over several years would be beneficial to the flora and fauna of the ditch. Management of the ditch may also increase dragonfly populations on the site. As a Local Nature Reserve the site is of great value to local people. Some form of site interpretation could be supplied at the SE end of the public footpath. The footpath has become overgrown in places and should be maintained accessible and a boardwalk constructed where the path crosses the main SE-NW ditch. 

The following information is extracted from the E. Anglian Valley Fen Dossier:

At the time of the 1982 Phase 1 survey, much scrub clearance was in progress on the SSSI. There was only one small area of fire damage and there was a large reseeded tip.

According to a survey by Wanda Fojt in 1987 this area has distinct peat cuttings which in some cases have penetrated to more base rich peats of the underlying substratum. Former ditches have become blocked with silt and have led to shallow pools. Fire has been important. There is floristic evidence for enrichment of some willow-carr by leachate from the rubbish tip, but it is not known how pervasive this is.

Part of the north-east section was burnt in 1988.

The proposed route of a bypass was diverted to avoid further damage to this common.

Section 2

This part of the common has been subject to extensive scrub encroachment and subsequent development of secondary woodland. The remaining heathland is mostly mature {\it Calluna vulgaris} with both building and degenerate phases present. Management should be concentrated on maintaining/improving/extending the remaining areas of heathland. The area of continuous scrub may be an important habitat for birds and may be enhanced by a program of rotational coppicing producing a more diverse age structure.

Section 3

The stream on this section was polluted, being almost stagnant and full of opaque, rusty brown material at the time of the site visit. This section was also previously heathland with small areas of heath and acid grassland remaining and it may be possible to enhance/extend these areas through appropriate management.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: chaffinch, house sparrow, swallow. Several large white and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen.

The following information is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"Many uncommon species of moth have been recorded from the site, including the rare {\it Perizoma sagittaria}. Sedge, reed and grasshopper warblers all breed on the fen and otters are regular visitors."

VEG:
The common was viewed from the public roads only, using binoculars. 

To the east of the road which runs in a roughly SW to NE direction, the swamp vegetation is dominated by {\it Phragmites australis} with locally frequent (mostly within 15m of the edge of the swamp) {\it Phalaris arundinacea, Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria} plus occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Heracleum sphondylium}. There is also localized scattered {\it Salix} sp. and {\it Crataegus monogyna} scrub. Along the roadsides, there are patches of dense scrub dominated by {\it Salix cinerea} (with frequent {\it S. viminalis}) or {\it Prunus spinosa} with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Along the eastern side of the road, there are old coppiced {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees with occasional {\it Acer campestre}.                 

The roughly triangular shaped area to the west of the road (TF719017) appears to be drier. {\it Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Phragmites australis} dominated swamp vegetation in the central area grades into rank {\it Arrhenatherum elatius/Holcus lanatus} dominated grassland on slightly higher ground towards the boundaries. Within 2 to 8m of the road, there are dense stands of {\it Urtica dioica} with abundant {\it Galium aparine}. Along the NE facing boundary, there are patches of dense scrub ({\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix} sp.) with a row of mature {\it Populus} sp. trees and occasional {\it Malus} sp. Other species recorded in this area: in swamp - occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Filipendula ulmaria}; in rank grassland - frequent {\it Elytrigia repens} and {\it Achillea millefolium} plus occasional {\it Heracleum sphondylium} and {\it Malva} sp.

No further survey was carried out. The following is an extract from the SSSI citation:

"Boughton Fen is situated on shallow fen peats in the valley of a tributary of the River Wissey. A tall fen community covers much of the site and several interesting plants are present. Scrub is well represented and is used by breeding birds. The site is of entomological interest.

Reed ({\it Phragmites australis}) forms an almost pure stand where the water table is highest at the southern end of the site. The remainder of the site is of variable wetness and a more diverse fen community has developed. Reed is again dominant, but meadowsweet ({\it Filipendula ulmaria}) and Great willowherb ({\it Epilobium hirsutum}) are abundant. Other species present include Common valerian ({\it Valeriana officinalis}), Hemp agrimony ({\it Eupatorium cannabinum}), Angelica ({\it Angelica sylvestris}), Purple small-reed ({\it Calamagrostis canescens}) and Reed sweet grass ({\it Glyceria maxima}).

On the highest ground, woodland has developed (outside the CL boundary?) and is dominated by Ash ({\it Fraxinus excelsior}) and Alder ({\it Alnus glutinosa}) with willow ({\it Salix} sp.) The ground flora consists of Meadowsweet, nettle ({\it Urtica dioica}) and Hogweed ({\it Heracleum sphondylium}). Several areas of dense Blackthorn ({\it Prunus spinosa}) scrub are present on the drier parts of the site."

MANAGE:
The density of the swamp vegetation suggests that grazing rights may no longer be fully exercised. The localized scattered and dense scrub provides additional habitat for birds and small mammals but control of encroachment may be required in the long term.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, black headed gull, blue tit, house sparrow, mallard, swallow. Several large white and orange tip butterflies were seen. There is evidence of rabbit grazing in the southernmost section.

VEG:
In the southern section, the marshy grassland is situated on the lowest ground and dominated by {\it Filipendula ulmaria} with frequent {\it Carex hirta, Deschampsia cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Cirsium palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris} and {\it Juncus effusus} plus occasional {\it Calamagrostis} sp., {\it Juncus inflexus, Angelica sylvestris, Caltha palustris, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. Towards the NE facing boundary (of this section), there are scattered pools (too small to map) within the marshy grassland which contain frequent {\it Equisetum palustre, Polygonum amphibia} and {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}.

In the southern half of this section, the marshy grassland grades into poor semi-improved grassland and tall ruderal vegetation ({\it Epilobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with frequent {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}). 

A series of ponds connected by shallow drainage ditches occupy the central area of the common. These contain dense stands of {\it Glyceria maxima} and {\it Typha latifolia} with little open water, except for one which contains dense {\it Juncus effusus}. The banks support dense {\it Filipendula ulmaria} or dense {\it Epliobium hirsutum} and {\it Urtica dioica}. Only the pond nearest the A1065 is over 95 per cent open water. This contains abundant {\it Ranunculus} sp. (water crowfoot) and is fringed with abundant {\it Eleocharis palustris} and {\it Mentha aquatica} plus occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Juncus inflexus}. The bank supports dense stands of {\it Epilobium hirstum} and {\it Urtica dioica} with scattered {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. Areas of scattered and dense scrub are concentrated in the vicnity of the ponds. {\it Ulex europaeus} is predominant with frequent {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa} and {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. There are also scattered {\it Betula} sp. saplings and young trees.

On the highest ground at the southern edge of this section, there is a small area of semi-improved acid grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} with abundant {\it Galium saxatile, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it Rumex acetosella}.

The southern half of the other section contains small areas of enclosed, improved grassland. The remaining area is swamp vegetation on the floodplain of the River Wensum with a small area of broadleaved woodland.         

The swamp vegetation is dominated by {\it Glyceria maxima} with scattered patches of {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Phragmites australis}. There is also frequent {\it Angelica sylvestris, Cirsium palustre, Equisetum palustre, Mentha aquatica} and {\it Valeriana dioica} plus occasional {\it Carex panicea, Juncus effusus, Juncus inflexus, Iris pseudacorus} and {\it Lycopus europaeus} and occasional, scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} (saplings) and {\it Salix cinerea}  

The woodland is dominated by {\it Betula pendula} and {\it B. pubescens} with scattered {\it Alnus glutinosa} and fringed with {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub.

MANAGE:
The small area of enclosed, improved grassland in the northern section appears to be the only part of the common under regular management. Grazing does not appear to take place on other parts of the common. In the long term, there will probably be a gradual spread of scrub and trees on these areas.


VEG:
The exact boundaries of this common were indistinct on the ground. Due to lack of access the common was only viewed from the adjacent dismantled railway track to which there appeared to be informal use for walking.  The common is cattle-grazed poor semi-improved grassland. The grasslands support much {\it Cirsium} spp.{\it Lolium perenne, Ranunculus} spp. and tall grasses. There are several patches of {\it Juncus} spp. The edges of the common support scrub species such as {\it Crataegus monogyna, Prunus spinosa, Rosa canina}. There are also small {\it Quercus robur}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, black headed gull, canada goose, common tern, coot, cormorant, great crested grebe, greylag goose, herring gull, house sparrow, mallard, skylark, yellowhammer. Areas of long grass around the pits contain numerous grasshoppers. 3 rabbits seen. 

The following information, concerning the reserve as a whole, is reproduced from the RSPB information board in the car park to the north of the common:

"Acquired in 1973, the reserve extends to 1300 hectares and comprises mudflats, saltmarsh, shingle beach and coastal lagoons (pits). It is the principal feeding and roosting site in the Wash, with about 30 percent of all the Wash's birds at high tide. In summer, ringed plovers and oystercatchers nest along the beach and there is a breeding colony of common terns on the islands in the pits."

VEG:
Land immediately around the pits supports tall grass and ruderal vegetation with scattered scrub. The most abundant grass species are {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Elytrigia atherica} with locally frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata}. The tall grass is interspersed with patches of {\it Urtica dioica} and localized, scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna, Rosa} sp., {\it Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Ulex europaeus}. There are a few small areas of dense {\it U. europaeus} dominated scrub. Other species recorded include locally frequent {\it Artemisia vulgaris} agg., {\it Dipsacus fullonum}, {\it Echium} sp., {\it Plantago coronopus, Sedum anglicum, Senecio jacobaea} and {\it Silene maritima} plus occasional {\it Erodium} sp. and {\it Hippophae rhamnoides}.

To the south of the pits, an area of {\it Elytrigia atherica} dominated saltmarsh (which appears to be ungrazed) lies within the CL boundary.

On the coastal side of the pits, there is a sea defence wall and a number of occupied chalets with access roads. On the seaward side of the chalets, an area of sand/shingle beach lies just outside the CL boundary. This supports scattered {\it Anagallis arvensis} (on highest ground), {\it Atriplex} sp., {\it Beta vulgaris, Cakile maritima, Crambe maritima, Dipsacus fullonum} (on highest ground), {\it Erodium} sp. {\it Glaucium flavum, Glaux maritima, Ononis repens, Plantago coronopus} and {\it Suaeda maritima}. 

Below the strandline (outside CL boundary), there is frequent {\it Enteromorpha} sp.

MANAGE:
Except for gardens around the chalets and associated buildings, the common is managed by the RSPB. Birdwatching hides have been built around the pits, "...where islands and spits have been created as safe high tide roost sites" (RSPB information board).


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: house sparrow, robin, magpie.

VEG:
The common was viewed from the adjoining road to the south and the public footpath to the west, using binoculars. The woodland is dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa} and {\it Fraxinus excelsior} with scattered {\it Betula} sp. There is good regeneration and a wide age range. Some of the {\it A. glutinosa} trees are old coppice trees. There is an understorey of scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Salix} sp. with occasional {\it Tamus communis}.

The ground flora near the road is dominated by {\it Urtica dioica} with scattered {\it Filipendula ulmaria} and {\it Iris pseudacorus}.

MANAGE:
The woodland is fenced from livestock. No ongoing management observed. The woodland is bound to contain standing and fallen deadwood; for the benefit of wildlife, it would be desirable to leave this {\it in situ}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: common gull, house sparrow, pheasant. 2 rabbits seen.

VEG:
The eastern half of the common contains an arable ley and a flax crop. The remaining area is mostly {\it Dactylis glomerata} dominated grassland which appears to have developed on fallow arable land. Other species recorded include abundant {\it Taraxacum officinale} agg. plus scattered {\it Cirsium arvense, Malva sylvestris, Rumex crispus, R. obtusifolius} and {\it Silene vulgaris. Anisantha sterilis} is dominant within 10 to 20m of the road where there are also occasional stands of {\it Urtica dioica}. Other species recorded here include frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Achillea millefolium, Anthriscus sylvestris, Centaurea nigra, Glechoma hederacea, Heracleum sphondylium, Lamium album, Plantago lanceolata} and {\it Silene dioica}.  

In the central area of the common, there is an enclosed tumulus which is covered with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and scattered {\it Chamerion angustifolium}.

There are mature standard {\it Quercus robur} trees along the southern boundary with a discontinuous, scrubby {\it Crataegus monogyna} dominated hedgerow.

MANAGE:
Managed as arable land with part fallow at the time of survey. The name "Lings" suggests the common may once have contained heathland.


FAUNA:
Rabbit burrows noted at time of site visit. No other fauna seen.

VEG:
The common lies on the lower slopes of a small hill to the west of Glusburn and appears to occupy the site of a small disused stone quarry. The nearest it was possible to approach the common was along a minor road about 250m to the south, from where it was viewed through binoculars.

The site appears to be vegetated with a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland. The latter comprises a short/sparse sward dominated by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with much bare ground showing on the spoil mounds. The heathy element is represented by a mixture of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Erica cinerea} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} (low apparent combined cover).

A track leads onto the site from one side and this appears to have improved grassland with bare ground areas.

Occasional clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} were noted in various parts of the site.

MANAGE:
The common is surrounded by dry stone walls. It appears likely that the site is grazed by sheep, although no stock were present at the time of the site visit. However, a number of rabbit-burrows could clearly be seen along the lower edge of the hill, with closely-grazed vegetation in the adjacent areas.


FAUNA:
This block of commons forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI. These moors are of international importance for their breeding bird populations, particularly merlin and golden plover. As such, the SSSI is being considered for addition to the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds (the Birds Directive). The pSPA is of European importance because it is used regularly by at least 1 per cent of the British population of merlin and golden plover, two species listed on Annex 1 of the Directive. Other species listed on Annex are also present, namely peregrine, hen harrier and short-eared owl.

Areas of tall heather are favoured by breeding merlin and short-eared owl. The moorland burning regime provides the varied structure required by species like red grouse, golden plover and curlew. Snipe and redshank breed around the grassy and rushy edges of the moor, whinchat utilise the bracken and ring ouzels frequent gill-sides and rocky outcrops. Peregrine, hen harrier and buzzard forage over the moorland. A variety of other breeding species are recorded including teal, wheatear, twite, dunlin, common sandpiper and lapwing. Two colonies of gulls were known to be breeding above Upper Barden Reservoir.
 
A short-eared owl was noted roosting in tall {\it Calluna} near Rowan Tree Crag during the Phase 2 survey.                            

A colony of green hairstreak butterflies has been recorded in the vicinity of Barden Beck, near Brass Castle (CL 417).

VEG:
The common comprises one element of a block of common land lying to the north-east of Skipton that constitutes the Embsay Moor/Barden Moor complex. The area was covered by the Upland Phase 2 survey during 1993 (see references) and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey (1986). Only a very brief visit was made to the extreme south-eastern corner of the block (i.e. CLs 243/417/418).

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section).

The area is a tilted tableland which rises to an altitude of around 500m along the north-western edge. The highest points are Thorpe Fell Top (506m - CL 213) and Watt Crag (500m - CL 34). The plateau is bounded by steep escarpments to the north, north-west and south, while to the east there is a more gradual transition towards Wharfedale. Streams running mainly in a south-easterly or more southerly direction cut into the plateau. 

The underlying geology comprises the Carboniferous Millstone Grit series. Soils are Cambic stagnohumic gleys on the lower altitude eastern slopes and deep raw oligo-fibrous peat on the plateau. Escarpment slopes along Cracoe Fell (CL 34) have Ironpan Stagnopodsols, giving way on gentle slopes below to Cambic stagnohumic gleys. 

Habitats within the block include some areas of blanket mire on the plateau surrounded by extensive areas of dry heath. The lower-lying southern and eastern portions of the block include a number of valley mire and flush features. Occasional gills and sheltered lower/marginal slopes support stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, whilst there are also small areas of acidic grassland, sometimes occurring as a mosaic with heath vegetation where these adjoin the main blocks of heather moorland.

The blanket mire is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC M20b). Other dwarf shrubs include {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. The most abundant moss is {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, while Sphagna are local in occurrence - {\it Sphagnum capillifolium} and {\it S. papillosum} developing in wet hollows. The present distribution of the existing stands of blanket mire on deep peat on the high ground suggests that about half the peat cover on the high ground of the block has been stripped-off. 

The major part of the plateau supports dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). The most frequent associates are {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Hypnum cupressiforme, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. Above about 400m on Burnsall and Thorpe Fell (CL 213) and Out Fell/Rylstone Fell (CL 158), other dwarf shrubs (i.e. {\it V. myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}) begin to share dominance with {\it Calluna}.

Note that {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs in an area of {\it Calluna} heath near the summit triangulation point on Thorpe Fell Top (CL 213) at 506m. 

Heathland on the north-western escarpment above Cracoe is dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type H18c: {\it Racomitrium lanuginosum-Cladonia} spp. sub-community). Within this are scattered severely-pruned tufts of {\it Calluna} (<5.0cm tall), suggesting that these slopes, currently dominated by {\it V. myrtillus}, were once {\it Calluna}-dominated. The most abundant moss in this heath is {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, with {\it Dicranum scoparium, Plagiothecium undulatum} and {\it Campylopus paradoxus} frequent. In addition, {\it Pleurozium schreberi} is locally abundant.

Stands of acidic grassland are either of {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5) or {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U6), sometimes supporting flushes of NVC type M6c ({\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Carex echinata}). As mentioned above, mosaics of these grasslands and the adjoining heathland communities also occur where the communities interface.

More extensive flushes and valley mires also occur, again supporting vegetation of NVC type M6c. There is a high cover of {\it S. recurvum}, often mixed with {\it Polytrichum commune}. Many stands of this vegetation are fringed with areas of {\it Juncus effusus-Festuca ovina} grassland, indicating that these areas are attracting high sheep numbers.

Dense stands of bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} have developed on moderately-steep slopes around the edges of the block, especially the southern edge, and also along gill-sides. Amongst the bracken are scattered trees of {\it Betula} spp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

MANAGE:
The block is grazed by sheep and is also managed as grouse moor for sport. Grazing levels on the {\it Calluna} are moderately high on the southern half of the moor (with much "topiary" heather in evidence) and light to only locally heavy on the rest of the area to the north. Locally there has been almost cmplete loss of {\it Calluna} (e.g. Heugh Ground Head - CL 243), where there are masses of dead {\it Calluna}, with {\it V. myrtillus} apparently succeeding the heather. 

In the northern part of the common, topiary heather is more local and in general {\it Calluna} is in good condition. The emphasis of land-use in this area is apparently on the rearing of red grouse rather than sheep. Management of heather-dominated vegetation is by small-patch burning. In the northern lightly-grazed area, there is infrequent burning, while in the south there is only occasional burning. {\it Calluna} is left to attain a height generally of around 45-60cm before burning, although on the lower slopes to the north-east of the area (north of Lower Barden Reservoir), much of the {\it Calluna} is around 60-75cm and dense with frequent over-mature bushes. The height of {\it Calluna} decreases with altitude to around 30cm maximum on Burnsall and Thorpe Fell (above about 450m - CL 213) where there is only occasional small-patch burning with no evidence of recent burns in the high-altitude blanket mire.

There is supplementary feeding of stock in both the southern and northern parts of the moor. Widespread spraying of bracken on gill-sides with herbicide.

Mining was a minor activity in the past and there are a few small mine tips on Burnsall and Thorpe Fell (CL 213).


VEG:
The common forms one element of the Oxenber and Wharfe Woods SSSI, which lies just to the east of Austwick. As well as woods, the SSSI supports areas of limestone pavement, acidic and calcicolous grassland and flush communities. This SSSI in turn forms one small element of the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

This particular common supports a major portion of the limestone pavement occurring within the SSSI. The ground flora of these pavements is very rich and includes {\it Thalictrum minus, Asplenium viride, Galium boreale, Melica nutans} and {\it Geranium sanguineum}. Along the south-western edge of the major block of limestone pavement is an exposure of limestone cliff, which presents important refugia for a number species not found elsewhere on the site. There is also an area of limestone scree just to the north of this feature.

Associated with the pavements are areas of species-rich calicolous grassland dominated by the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}. Other associates include {\it Helianthemum nummularium, Thymus drucei, Pilosella officinarum, Carex caryophyllea, Campanula rotundifolia, Fragaria vesca, Helictotrichon pratense, Carlina vulgaris, Festuca rubra, Ranunculus bulbosus, Poterium sanguisorba, Bellis perennis, Alchemilla} sp. and {\it Conopodium majus}.  

To the north of the common and elsewhere on deeper soils are swards of acidic grassland. Typically this contains {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Nardus stricta} with varying amounts of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

Much of the woodland on the common has traditionally been grazed and might more accurately be described as wood-pasture. On thin limestone soils, the dominant tree species are {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Corylus avellana}, with some {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The field layer shows both elements of woodland and grassland communities. The former is represented by species such as {\it Mercurialis perennis, Oxalis acetosella, Sanicula europaea, Orchis mascula, Primula vulgaris, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Carex sylvatica}. The grassland element is represented by an abundance of {\it Sesleria caerulea} with species such as {\it Thymus polytrichus, Primula veris, Carex flacca, C. caryophyllea, Carlina vulgaris, Filipendula ulmaria, Valeriana officinalis} and {\it Poterium sanguisorba}.

Toward the south of the site, the {\it F. excelsior/C. avellana} canopy is denser and the grassland element of the flora is absent. These woodlands are notable for the occurrence of {\it Daphne laureola}, although it is not clear whether this plant actually occurs on common land. The field layer contains {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Primula vulgaris, Mercurialis perennis, Orchis mascula, Fragaria vesca, Anemone nemorosa, Potentilla sterilis, Viola ? riviniana, Conopodium majus} and {\it Allium ursinum}.

Certain woodland shrub species, such as {\it Euonymus europaeus} and {\it Cornus sanguinea} appear to be confined to the crags, possibly representing an ungrazed relic of ancient woodland from which other trees and shrubs have spread in response to a past reduction in grazing pressure.

MANAGE:
The common has been grazed in the past, effectively as an area of wood-pasture. The SSSI as a whole comprises several different compartments which have all had slightly different grazing histories. It is recognised that continued grazing is essential to maintaining the conservation value of the site, in particular the open mires and to prevent areas becoming dominated by bramble. However, despite there being numerous tree seedlings, there appears to be no successful tree regeneration. Although the development of dense tree cover would be undesirable, it has been suggested that some seedlings could be protected by tree tubes and that some small-scale planting may be undertaken, using material of local origin. There may also be a benefit from excluding grazing from some areas completely.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna available for this particular common.

VEG:
The common lies in the upper Ribble valley. For some reason, this area of land does not appear to have been covered by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Phase 1 survey. 

The site was the subject of a brief visit by PD. However, most of the field notes made at this time have unfortunately been mislaid. The habitat map has apparently been based on PD's information, together with reference to the adjacent two commons. Of these, CL 32, to the north, was covered by the Phase 1 survey and has good target notes available, as well as being visited by PD. CL 284, to the south, was also surveyed by PD and the notes made at this time still exist.  

Thus it is recognised that the site account for this particular common is inadequate. However, at the time of writing (i.e. July 1999), with the overall project due for completion by October of this year, it has not proved possible to commit the additional time and resources to re-visit this site, which should ideally be properly surveyed.

Most of the common appears to comprise an acidic/marshy grassland sward with species such as {\it Nardus stricta, Molinia caerulea, Agrostis capillaris, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}.

To the north, available evidence from CL 103 would also suggest that there are some areas of deep peat, supporting blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}.

Crutchin Gill Rigg appears to contain a large valley mire complex, while there is a smaller, but still quite extensive acidic/neutral flush to the south. Unfortunately there is no species information for either of these two features.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: black-headed gull, plus a party of about 25 Canada Geese on one of the reservoirs.

VEG:
The common forms part of an extensive block of moorland to the north-east of Grassington. The major part of the site was covered by a survey of upland vegetation undertaken during 1984 using the Ratcliffe and Birks methodology. Although now out of date, there was insufficient time to re-survey the site, although ideally this should be done (but see below). The remainder of the common has been covered by the YDNP Phase 1 survey. A site visit was made to the southern part of the common (PD - 27.07.96). 

In general, it is relatively straightforward to translate from the Ratcliffe and Birks surveys into Phase 1. However, there are difficulties with the translation of blanket mire habitats, and there are no target notes as such, although the classification system provides limited information about community dominants. 

A significant portion of the common comprises plateaux that support areas of blanket mire. The 1984 survey groups this vegetation within {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} mire ('G4' - "Pennine Blanket Bog"). In practice, much of this vegetation is often {\it Sphagnum}-poor and degraded and therefore belongs to the Phase 1 category of 'E18' - dry modified bog. However, the 'typical' sub-community, if {\it Sphagnum} is abundant, may also belong within Phase 1 'E161' - blanket/{\it Sphagnum} bog. Such vegetation may occur to the north of the site (through inference from similar habitat on the contiguous CL 118, which was covered by English Nature's Phase 2/NVC survey of the early 1990s). However, this ideally needs re-survey. 

The two other sub-communities are both typical of burnt and/or grazed blanket mire and are therefore much more likely to be consistent with Phase 1 'E18'. Vegetation of this type occurs in grid square SD 0367 and is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with occasional {\it Polytrichum alpestre, Calluna vulgaris, Trichophorum cespitosum} and {\it Cladonia} sp.

As far as the blanket bog on the southern part of the common is concerned, the Phase 1 survey, in terms of mapping, under the pre-1990 methodology, did not distinguish between intact and degraded blanket mire types. The target notes by PD indicate that this vegetation falls within the 'E18' category, being dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} with locally abundant {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}. Peat depth appears locally as deep as 2.5m. Other locally occasional species of this vegetation noted were {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Polytrichum alpestre}.

The south-western part of the common has been very much influenced by past mining activity, with extensive spoil mounds situated within an area of acidic grassland. This is largely of a type dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus}, although there are also stands of {\it Agrostis/Festuca} and areas of {\it Nardus stricta}. Other grassland associates include {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. The {\it J. squarrosus} grassland also extends along the narrow valleys leading northwards from Blea Beck.

A further feature of the site are acidic flushes, typical of acidic upland habitats, being dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum revurvum}. In one situation, {\it Carex rostrata} also occurs. There are extensive such features associated with the upper valleys of the Blea Beck catchment and also elsewhere on the common.

Other habitats represented on the common are dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, occurring on the western fringe of Bycliffe Hill and to the south of here are several stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

There are several small water bodies on the southern part of the site, apparently reservoirs associated with the past mining activity.

MANAGE:
The common is presumably grazed by sheep.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blackbird, house sparrow, jackdaw.

VEG:
The common lies on the north-eastern edge of Ingleton. The site was covered largely by the Phase 1 survey, with several relevant target notes being available. In addition, the site was also surveyed by PD during the course of the present project. 

The site comrpises a mosaic of largely semi-improved calcicolous and acidic grassland habitat, with much outcropping carboniferous limestone. 

Site notes from PD........

The semi-improved calcareous grassland covers most of the area of the 
common. There are numerous limestone outcrops and the sward is 
generally very short due to sheep grazing. It is a mixture of {\it Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Briza media, Cynosurus cristatus}, and {\it Festuca ovina} (no single species appears to be dominant) with locally frequent {\it Alchemilla} sp., {\it Bellis perennis, Conopodium majus, Euphrasia} sp., {\it Galium verum, G. saxatile, Helianthemum nummularium,  Pilosella officinarum, Linum catharticum, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Polygala} sp., {\it Sanguisorba minor}, and {\it Thymus} sp., plus occasional {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Veronica serpyllifolia}. 

On the steep NE facing bank above the River Doe (SD 699 736), the sward 
contains occasional {\it Dactylorhiza purpurella} (this is the most species-rich area of calcareous grassland on the common, and has been 
recorded as unimproved). Sheltered crevices on the limestone outcrops 
frequently contain {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} (which do 
not grow beyond the crevice where sheep have access), {\it Asplenium 
trichomanes} and {\it Thymus sp}. 

Towards the northern and southern edges of the common, the semi-improved calcareous grassland grades into semi-improved acidic grassland dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile, Pilosella officinarum, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}. These small areas of semi-improved acidic grassland are probably situated on shallow deposits of boulder clay overlying the 
limestone.  

There is an abandoned limestone quarry at the western end of the 
common (SD 699 734). Several roofless concrete buildings remain as well 
as areas of compacted aggregate and scattered spoil hillocks. Short, 
patchy vegetation has developed on the latter two (mostly species from 
the surrounding grassland, with occasional {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, 
Dactylis glomerata, Tussilago farfara} and {\it Urtica dioica}). 

{\it Polystichum lonchitis} (three small plants) was found on limestone near Storrs Cave (SD 703 731).

Target notes from YDNP Phase 1 survey.......

The calcicolous swards appear to be dominated by either {\it Helictotrichon pratense} or the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}. Other associates include {\it Carlina vulgaris, Helianthemum nummularium, Linum catharticum, Lotus corniculatus, Thymus polytrichus, Pilosella officinarum, Carex flacca, C. caryophyllea, Poterium sanguisorba, Succisa pratensis, Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Briza media}. 

Along the slopes to the north-west of the common flanking the river Doe there are also "small cells of acidic influence" with {\it Calluna vulgaris, Danthonia decumbens, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Nardus stricta}.  

Away from the rock outcrops, to the east, there appears to be a transition to a grassland sward which is more neutral in character.

MANAGE:
The common is used for sheep grazing. The grazing intensity is sufficient to prevent any gradual spread of dwarf shrub species beyond outcropping limestone, where they have some protection from livestock.          

There are stock-proof dry stone walls along most of the length of the  boundary of the common.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted during the site visit: blackbird, blue tit, chaffinch, chiffchaff, house sparrow, robin, song thrush. Meadow brown and small tortoiseshell butterflies were seen along the eastern boundary.

VEG:
The common is situated along the eastern side of the River Doe, to the north-east of Ingleton. The whole site lies within the Thornton and Twistleton Glens SSSI. This site is listed in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), and has partly been scheduled for geological reasons.

Notes from SSSI files.......

The greater part of the common supports woodland on limestone, with a canopy generally dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and a shrub layer of {\it Corylus avellana}. Frequent by the riverside is {\it Ulmus glabra}, and {\it Taxus baccata} occurs on the cliffs and scars. The field layer is dominated either by {\it Mercurialis perennis, Allium ursinum} or {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and is locally rich in woodland herbs such as {\it Sanicula europaea} and {\it Galium odoratum}. On the more acidic soils that overly slate, woodland of {\it Quercus/Betula} sp. is well-developed. The field layer here contains {\it Luzula sylvatica, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}.

The habitat map for the SSSI also shows a small area of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}, plus a small disused quarry containing a small pond.  

Field notes by PD..........

The valley slope is very steep in places (up to 60 degrees). The canopy mostly consists of mature standard {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Quercus robur}, with scattered {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Betula pendula} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}, and frequent {\it Alnus glutinosa} along the River Doe (which runs along the western boundary). {\it Q. robur} is dominant in the northern quarter of the common - here, at the top of the slope, the trees are in an exposed situation and growth is stunted.

Tree regeneration is generally very good on the steepest parts of the 
slope, where there are frequent scattered {\it F. excelsior} and {\it A. 
pseudoplatanus} saplings and seedlings. It is absent in the {\it Q. robur} 
dominated area in the northern quarter, probably due to occasional 
sheep grazing. The understorey consists of scattered {\it Crataegus 
monogyna, Sambucus nigra, Corylus avellana, Prunus spinosa}, with 
scattered {\it Ilex aquifolium, Viburnum opulus, Salix cinerea} and {\it S. capraea}.

Over much of the site, the woodland ground flora is very diverse. On 
the steepest areas of the slope, there are carpets of {\it Allium ursinum, 
Anenome nemorosa, Hedera helix, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Oxalis 
acetosella} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria} with scattered {\it Arum maculatum, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Dryopteris filix-mas}. These species are also scattered throughout the more gentle, grassy parts of the slope, where there is frequent {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Deschampsia cespitosa, D. flexuosa} and {\it Holcus mollis}, with scattered {\it Ajuga reptans, Geum urbanum, Filipendula ulmaria, Primula vulgaris, Stellaria holostea, Viola riviniana} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}.

A flush (too small to map) dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} and {\it Schoenus nigricans} with frequent {\it F. ulmaria, Angelica sylvestris, Stachys officinalis} and {\it Juncus effusus} was found in the southern half of the common.  
  
A disused quarry is situated in the central area of the common. It 
contains a shallow pool fringed with {\it Glyceria} sp. and {\it Sphagnum} spp. and shaded by regenerating {\it Betula} sp. The exposed limestone rock faces support occasional {\it D. flexuosa, M. caerulea, Lonicera periclymenum, Vaccinium myrtillus, Dryopteris dilatata, D. filix-mas} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

Other bryophyte species noted (apart from {\it Thuidium} and {\it Sphagnum}) include locally frequent {\it Polytrichum commune} and {\it Dicranum majus} (on the drier, grassy parts of the slope), {\it Tortella tortuosa} (on occasional limestone outcrops), {\it Plagiomnium undulatum} and {\it Mnium hornum. Hypnum mammilatum} occurs frequently on tree trunks.

MANAGE:
No livestock were seen, but the sparse tree regeneration on the gentler parts of the slope suggest that the common may be used occasionally for grazing. There was no evidence of recent coppicing or planting. 

Some standing and fallen dead wood was seen; the practice of leaving this {\it in situ} should continue as it is beneficial to wildlife.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna available for this particular common, which was not visited during the course of the present survey.

VEG:
The common forms the eastern portion of Burn Moor, which lies in the extreme northern part of the Bowland Fells (situated along the North Yorkshire boundary with Lancashire).

The greater part of the common supports dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with local {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. On the slope to the north this gives way to acidic grassland dominated by either {\it Juncus squarrosus} or {\it Nardus stricta}. There are smaller areas of marshy grassland, both here and along the valley that lies along the southern edge of the common, dominated by either {\it Juncus effusus} or {\it Molinia caerulea}. Some stands of dense bracken along gillsides and elsewhere. 

To the south-west, the common encompasses part of the Fox Holes - Great Harlow plateau, which supports blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} (interpreted as Phase 1 'E18' dry modified bog).

MANAGE:
The heather moorland of the common is managed as grouse moor (i.e. burning etc.). The pattern of burns was clearly evident when viewing the area from a distance. There is also grazing by sheep, although these probably are mainly to be found on the acidic grassland to the north.


VEG:
The common comprises a block of open fell to the south-west of Giggleswick. The site has an undulating topography, comprising a number of shallow valleys with low hills in between. There was insufficient time to visit the site during the course of the present survey (see 'Sources').

The valleys support flush and valley mire habitat. The dominant species appear to be {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. Other associates include {\it Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium} and {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos}. Localised areas support stands of {\it Carex rostrata}.                              

The ridges/hills in between the flushes tend to support acidic grassland dominated by either {\it Nardus stricta} or {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Locally there are areas of marshy grassland dominated either by {\it J. effusus} or {\it Molinia caerulea}. 

To the south of the common there is an area of dry heath vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. 

Localised areas of blanket mire, apparently Phase 1 'E18' - dry modified bog, dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}.

MANAGE:
No information on management, probably grazed by sheep.


FAUNA:
Noted during site visit were: meadow pipit, wren, flock of starlings, carrion crow, red grouse, golden plover, swallow, painted lady.

VEG:
A major part of this common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the new SSSI lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are the Howarth-Oakworth Moors (a section of which overlaps this common), Ilkley Moor, Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land. (See attached maps of commons in this block and also of the boundary of this section of the SSSI).  

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops at several points within the SSSI. There are notable exposures along the northern tip of this particular common, forming a part of Earl Crag, a prominant landscape feature on the skyline above the Aire Valley. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

The adjacent CL 600 in West Yorkshire is covered by a Phase 1 habitat survey conducted by the West Yorkshire Ecological Advisory Service during 1989. Unfortunately this stops at the county boundary. To some extent, the habitats on the adjacent North Yorkshire commons in the block can be deduced by extrapolation. Mapping of the habitats was done from vantage points along the various rights of way, with brief target notes made at this time.

Along the SE edge of the common (1) is a swathe of dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. This forms part of a block extending across much of the contiguous West Yorkshire CL 600. {\it Calluna} is here overwhelmingly dominant, with occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, inconspicuous {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. This vegetation probably belongs to NVC type H9. The {\it Calluna} occurs in large even-aged blocks (due to burning), at almost 100 per cent cover, mainly showing only slight signs of grazing by sheep. 

On the NW side of the common (2) lies a further area of dry heath. However, this appears to be co-dominated by {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally abundant {\it H. cupressiforme} plus locally frequent {\it Plagiothecium undulatum} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}. {\it Calluna}, plus {\it Erica tetralix} occur rarely within this heath, which probably corresponds to NVC type H18, but may locally be transitional with M20 (see below). Occasionally there are small patches of acidic grassland with {\it Nardus stricta, D. flexuosa} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Much of this heath is being invaded by patches of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} - NVC type U20, while there are also occasional small acidic flush features dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c). 

Running across the central part of the common (3) is a sort of shelf which has seen the development of blanket mire. This largely appears typical of the South Pennine mires, being dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, but with {\it Sphagnum} mosses absent - dry modified bog in Phase 1 terms. This vegetation is characterised here by an abundance of {\it E. vaginatum}, plus locally abundant {\it Empetrum nigrum, Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Other associates include locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and locally rare {\it Erica tetralix}. All of this vegetation belongs to NVC type M20. Where {\it Calluna} occurs, it rises to as much as 90 per cent cover, and is around 30-50cm tall, showing few signs of grazing by sheep.

In the vicinity of Winter Hill, to the NE (4), very small pockets of this blanket mire are of a type with abundant {\it Sphagnum} mosses. These belong to a different Phase 1 category, possibly that of true un-degraded {\it Sphagnum} bog, as indicated by more than 25 per cent cover of {\it Sphagnum}. This habitat is extremely scarce across the South Pennines as a whole. Alternatively these areas may represent some form of a flush habitat. The abundant {\it Sphagnum} appears to include species such as {\it S. palustre, S. capillifolium, S. subnitens} and {\it S. cuspidatum}. Other species noted here include abundant {\it Campylopus paradoxus, Aulacomnium palustre} and locally frequent {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos}. 

To the south of here is a large discrete acidic flush feature (5). This was noted to have {\it Juncus effusus, Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium, Erica tetralix, Sphagnum recurvum, Carex echinata, Polytrichum commune, Galium palustre} and {\it Ranunculus omiophyllus} (NVC M6).

Further north, on Round Hill/Winter Hill Slack (6), the blanket mire gives way to acidic grasssland dominated either by Nardus stricta (NVC U5) or Juncus squarrosus (NVC U6).

Isolated remnants of the blanket mire run out into the adjacent dry heath and acidic grassland habitats, typified by tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum} amongst the vegetation. These represent transitional NVC communities.

The northernmost part of the common represents a separate management unit, being isolated from the rest of the site by a fenced road. 

Immediately to the north of this road (7) is a fairly level area which has a mosaic of acidic grassland and dry heath. This in effect is {\it Nardus stricta}/U5 grassland with very suppressed elements of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Erica tetralix}. 

Draining westwards from this area is a shallow valley which contains a somewhat degraded and drying out acidic flush feature, frequented by many sheep. The flushed areas comprise tussocks of {\it Juncus effusus} with locally frequent {\it Sphagnum palustre, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Polytrichum commune, Holcus lanatus, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Epilobium palustre}, plus locally occasional {\it Cirsium palustre}. In between the {\it J. effusus} tussocks is a closely-grazed semi-improved acidic grassland sward. Locally on the margins of this area are tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum}, while towards the western (downstream) end, it becomes wetter and more like a discrete flush. Occasional very suppressed "drumstick" forms of {\it Calluna} noted here plus {\it Erica tetralix}.
                              
At (8) is a small area lying on the opposite side of a fenced road. This area is ungrazed and has rank neutral grassland plus tall ruderals - {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium palustre, C. arvense, Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Lotus pedunculatus} and {\it Equisetum palustre}. Elsewhere {\it Juncus effusus} becomes dominant, marking transitions to a marshy grassland sward.

Along the fenced east-west road itself are narrow grassland verges and ditches which contain some interesting species. Noted at various points along here were: {\it D. glomerata, D. cespitosa, Agrostis capillaris, Holcus lanatus, Festuca ovina, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, Erica tetralix, Achillea ptarmica, Cirsium arvense, C. vulgaris, Juncus inflexus, Prunella vulgaris, Filipendula ulmaria, Potentilla erecta, Ranunculus acris, Campanula rotundifolia, Lotus corniculatus, Trifolium repens}, plus several specimens of {\it Dactylorhiza ?fuchsii}.

The extreme northern portion of the common comprises a steep north-facing slope below Earl Crag (9).  This mainly has a mosaic of dry heath of {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it V. myrtillus} plus stands of dense bracken. A small fenced, abandoned quarry, ajdacent to the road along the foot of the slope has a sward of {\it Calluna} dry heath. This area appears ungrazed, with the {\it Calluna} in a mature condition (30 - 50cm tall). About 10-15 per cent of the quarry area comprises bare earth tracks caused through use by scramble bikes.    

A narrow strip along the northern side of the road has a complex mixture of habitats as shown on the site map. The occurrence here of {\it Molinia caerulea} introduces the additional categories of marshy grassland and wet heath. Scattered trees of {\it Sorbus aucuparia} also present in this locality.

MANAGE:
The major part of the commn appears unfenced from the contiguous commons and the whole area is grazed by sheep at fairly low levels. The swathe of {\it Calluna} heath stretching from the SE edge of this common across CL 600 is part of an area of managed grouse moor. The heather here is burnt on a rotational basis to provide a habitat suitable for grouse.

The northern part of the common forms a separate management unit. Grazing levels on area (7) are heavy, with any dwarf shrub species in a very suppressed condition. The slope to the north of Earl Crag, however, although not fenced from (7), appears to have very low grazing levels.

The small fenced area at (8) appears never to be grazed, and neither are the verges along the fenced east-west road crossing the common south of here. The vegetation on these areas has a fairly diverse mix of neutral and other grassland species and herbs. 

Note the use of the small quarry for motorcycling. In fact, the bikes were even noted to be ridden in the area between the top of the crags and the car park on the southern road. 

Also note, this car park comprises a small fenced area taken out of the adjacent land. At the edge of this was noted a variety of dumped rubbish: scrap metal, builders rubble, tree cuttings.


VEG:
A major part of this common lies within the boundary of the South Pennine Moors SSSI. This recently notified area includes several sections of the South Pennine Moors lying between Ilkley in the north and the Peak District National Park boundary in the south. The majority of the new SSSI lies within West Yorkshire but it also covers areas of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and North Yorkshire. The largest moorland blocks are the Howarth-Oakworth Moors (a section of which overlaps this common), Ilkley Moor, Rishworth Moor and Moss Moor, a considerable portion of which are also common land. (See attached maps of commons in this block and also of the boundary of this section of the SSSI).  

The underlying geology is Millstone Grit, which outcrops at several points within the SSSI. Further exposures are found in numerous abandoned quarries which often lie at the edge of the moor. Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the upland plateaux and are punctuated by species-rich acidic flushes and mires. There are also wet and dry heaths and acidic grasslands. Three habitat types which occur on the site are rare enough within Europe to be listed on Annex 1 of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (92/43 EEC). These communities are typical of and represent the full range of upland vegetation types found in the South Pennines.

The adjacent CL 600 in West Yorkshire is covered by a Phase 1 habitat survey conducted by the West Yorkshire Ecological Advisory Service during 1989. Unfortunately this stops at the county boundary. To some extent, the habitats on the adjacent North Yorkshire commons in the block can be deduced by extrapolation. Mapping of the habitats was done from vantage points along the Pennine Way, with brief target notes made at this time.

The common comprises a plateau to the south with land falling away to the north. There is a "shelf" in between Maw Stones Hill and High End Lowe, which has a small valley draining into its western edge.

The a major part of the common comprises dry dwarf shrub heath of various types. To the east this is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, inconspicuous {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. This vegetation probably belongs to NVC type H9. The {\it Calluna} occurs in large even-aged blocks (due to burning), at almost 100 per cent cover, mainly showing only slight signs of grazing by sheep. 

For the most part, however, this dry heath appears to be co-dominated by {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, locally abundant {\it H. cupressiforme} and occasional {\it Plagiothecium undulatum}. This probably corresponds to NVC type H18, but may locally be transitional with M20 (see below). Toward the western portion of the site  there appears to be the development of small acidic grassland patches within the heath, dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC U5) or {\it D. flexuosa} (NVC U2).

Vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna} also extends onto areas of blanket mire occuring on the plateau to the south, with a further expanse of deep peat on the shelf north of Maw Stones Hill. In Phase 1 terms this equates to dry modified bog and is characterised here by an abundance of {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} plus, {\it Calluna, V. myrtillus} and {\it E. nigrum}. Other associates include locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and locally rare {\it Erica tetralix}. {\it Sphagnum} mosses are characteristically absent and this vegetation belongs to NVC type M20. The {\it Calluna} on the blanket mire is generally in a mature state, between 30 - 50cm tall, showing few signs of selective grazing by sheep and reacing as much as 90 per cent cover.  

Isolated remnants of the blanket mire run out into the adjacent dry heath, typified by tussocks of {\it E. vaginatum} amongst the dwarf shrubs - transitional NVC M20/H18.

The valley south of High End Lowe contains areas of acidic flush dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC M6c). Further flushed areas extend onto the adjacent "shelf" and can also be found on slopes on the northern side of High End Lowe.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. Overall grazing levels appear slight-moderate, with little evidence of the heather on the common being selectively grazed by the sheep.

The common is also managed as grouse moor. The dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna}, to the east, is part of a larger area extending onto adjacent commons and managed by rotational burning. However, the {\it V. myrtillus/E. nigrum} heath and the blanket mire showed no obvious signs of any recent burning. There are a series of grouse shooting butts as shown on the O.S. map, and there are also a number of shooting huts situated along the northern edge of the common around High End Lowe.

A section of the boundary with the contiguous West Yorkshire CL 600 has been recently fenced, with a stile provided where this is crossed by the Pennine Way. Sections of this path have become eroded where they cross the blanket mire and have been repaired by laying a line of redundant gritstone flags. While expensive, this is a relatively long-lasting solution to the problem and is more aesthetically pleasing than earlier repair attempts.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: meadow pipit, curlew, rabbit.

VEG:
The common lies on the fringe of moorland to the north of the Yorkshire Dales village of Hebden.

The northern part of the common lies along the edge of a much larger adjoining expanse of dry heather moorland dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with an understorey of {\it Hypnum jutlandicum}. The heather forms a fairly even-aged sward, around 30-40cm tall. Several burnt areas were also noted, showing some signs of regenerating heather seedlings, although there appeared to be a general abundance of {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Rumex acetosella} in these past burns. 

At the southern edge, the heath grades into a mosaic with acidic grassland, this being characterised by {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Nardus stricta, Festuca ovina, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. Occasional/frequent {\it Holcus lanatus} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. The moss {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} is abundant in the sward.                     

There is also an area with some dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
The common is unfenced on all but its south-western edge and lies at the edge of a much larger adjacent area of heather moorland. There appear to be signs of slight grazing by sheep - e.g. some droppings noted, plus some slight nibbling of heather bushes along the margin of the stand. Some of the acidic grassland is also grazed by rabbits. It is not known whether the areas of burnt heather have originated accidentally or as part of deliberate management.

Some of the bracken areas comprise last years dead fronds with no growth present this year and this may suggest that these areas were treated with herbicide last summer.


FAUNA:
No records of fauna for this particular common, which was not visited during the course of the present survey.

VEG:
The common forms a small, peripheral area to Rathmell Common. Due to severe time constraints, there was insufficient time to visit this particular site (see 'Sources'). The southern part of the common is contiguous with the open fell of the main common and includes areas of both {\it Nardus stricta} acidic grassland and {\it Juncus} spp. marshy grassland. The Phase 1 survey appears to show the northern portion as having a mosaic of acidic and marshy ({\it Molinia} ?) grassland. No other information is available and ideally the site should be surveyed fully.

MANAGE:
No information, but probably grazed by sheep.


FAUNA:
Noted in the general vicinity during the site visit were: swallows, wheatear, meadow pipit, carrion crow, skylark, kestrel.

VEG:
The common lies alongside a track, approximately 2km north of Horton-in-Ribblesdale.

The greater part of the common is acidic grassland. Within this are two areas of outcropping carboniferous limestone (possibly small disused quarries), which have associated calcicolous grassland.

The acidic grassland is characterised by {\it Nardus stricta, Festuca ovina} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. Other associates of the sward include {\it Juncus squarrosus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Danthonia decumbens, Potentilla erecta, Carex pilulifera, Galium saxatile, Juncus effusus, Deschampsia cespitosa} and the mosses {\it Hypnum cupressiforme, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Polytrichum ?commune} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}. Scattered individuals of {\it Cirsium vulgare} and {\it C. arvense} in places.

Locally there are some slightly more neutral areas (e.g. alongside the track), where species such as {\it Plantago lanceolata, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens, Cerastium fontaum, Euphrasia officinalis, Bellis perennis, Ranucnulus repens} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia} occur.  

The calcicolous grassland comprises a closely sheep-grazed sward dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it F. rubra}, with locally occasional {\it Koeleria macrantha}. Other associates include {\it Carex caryophyllea, C. flacca, Thymus polytrichus, Bellis perennis, Pilosella officinarum, Prunella vulgaris, Viola} sp., {\it Euphrasia officinalis, Cynosurus cristatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Linum catharticum}.

Mosses associated with the limestone outcrops are {\it Tortella tortuosa, Ctenidium molluscum} and {\it Homalothecium sericeum}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. Grazing levels appear high, especially on the more palatable calcicolous grassland. Abundant sheep droppings across the site. Enclosed by intact dry stone walls. The track is gated at the southern end, but not at the northern end.

The limestone outcrops still retain some interesting grassland and close monitoring of the effects of the current grazing regime on this feature of the site is recommended.


FAUNA:
Noted in the general vicinity during the site visit were: skylark, snipe, curlew, meadow pipit.

VEG:
The common comprises the verges along a section (approx. 2.5km in length) of the Settle-Airton road.

The verges average around 2.0m in width and comprise a sward of fairly diverse coarse grassland. The most prominent grasses include {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Poa trivialis, Festuca rubra, Holcus lanatus, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. A range of locally frequent forbs includes {\it Ranunculus repens, Anthriscus sylvestris, Geum rivale, Trifolium repens, Plantago lanceolata, Juncus conglomeratus, Urtica dioica, Heracleum sphondylium, Cirsium arvense, Alchemilla} sp., {\it Stachys sylvatica, Aegopodium podagraria} and {\it Vicia sepium}. Species noted rarely were {\it Helicotrichon pubescens, Geranium pratense, Silene dioica, Myrrhis odorata} and {\it Centaurea nigra}. Single stand of {\it Petasites hybridus}.

Toward the southern end of the section, scattered bushes of {\it Crataegus monogyna} are also present.

MANAGE:
The grassland is rank and has an unmanaged appearance, although parts may be mown occasionally.


FAUNA:
There are no records of fauna for this particular common, which was not visited during the course of the present survey.

VEG:
The common lies several km south-west of Settle. There was insufficient time to visit this site during the course of the present survey. The Craven habitat survey shows the site to comprise an area of 'mire'. This has been translated as Phase 1 'E32' - basin mire.

There is a single relevant target note made by Judith Allinson. This describes the site as a mire with records for {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos, Myrica gale, Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Melampyrum pratense}. Scattered {\it Betula} sp. scrub. At the western edge of the site this appears to grade into a more continuous woodland.

This could be an interesting, if small site and a more detailed survey is recommended, both to enable a more detailed classification of the type of mire and a Phase 2 survey of the vegetation communities present.

MANAGE:
No information on management found. Ideally the site should be visited to evaluate management (severe time constraints during present survey). Despite its small size, the common may be an interesting area of peatland.


FAUNA:
Noted in the general vicinity by KC were: numerous curlews (alarm calling) plus skylark, snipe, meadow pipit, and an individual brown hare.

VEG:
The common lies on Scotsthrop Moor, to the SE of Settle. The habitat map has been prepared using the Yorkshire Dales National Park Phase 1 survey and this source provides a single target note for the site. The eastern portion of the common was walked (along the road) by KAC, while gaining access onto the nearby CL 294. There was also an earlier site visit made by PD.

Most of the common comprises an extensively grazed damp acidic/marshy grassland sward. Dominant species appear to be {\it Nardus stricta, Molinia caerulea, Festuca rubra??} and {\it Juncus effusus}. There are also some "degenerative tussocks" of {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. Occasional plants of {\it Calluna vulgaris} noted. 

The Phase 1 survey shows several pockets of blanket peat, mainly to the north, dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and these have been translated to the current Phase 1 category of 'E18' - dry modified bog. 

The Phase 1 survey also shows two small discrete acidic/neutral flushes dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}. There may be other such features occurring elsewhere on the common and there is also a record for {\it Narthecium ossifragum}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed extensively by sheep. Roads crossing the common are unfenced and protected by cattle grids. The graziers have erected signs requesting motorists to slow down. Despite the apparent high grazing levels, the common appears to be used by a variety of ground-nesting bird species.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: flock of swallows, blue tit, nuthatch, wood warbler, wren, green woodpecker, tawny owl, rabbit.

VEG:
Foss Gill lies adjacent to the hamlet of Calton, about 1km to the east of the Dales village of Airton. The general area has been covered by a habitat survey done by the National Park during 1987/88. In this case, there is little information available from this source and the following description is based entirely upon the result of a field survey.

The main focus of interest of the common is a wooded section lying within Foss Gill (1), although note that only a portion of this, that along the Gill itself, lies within the boundary of the common. This is a narrow, steep-sided gorge cut into the edge of the Carboniferous Limestone by a stream. This has recently started to flow underground, and at the time of the site visit, the bed of the stream was thus quite dry. There is quite a lot of exposed limestone along the gillsides. Toward the head of the gorge lies an imposing waterfall of about 10.0m tall.

The predominant canopy tree of the woodland is {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, plus occasional individuals of {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Undershrubs comprise {\it Sambucus nigra} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. The field layer contains species such as frequent/abundant {\it Brachypodium sylvaticum, Mercurialis perennis, Geum urbanum, Viola ?riviniana, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Anisantha ?sterilis}. Field layer bryophytes include {\it Brachythecium rutabulum, Lophocolea bidentata, Plagiomnium undulatum} and {\it Thamnobryum alopecurum} (the latter abundant on limestone rocks along the base of the gorge). Boulders along the stream course also appear good for a variety of bryophytes.                             

Further into the steeper section of the gorge, {\it F. excelsior} is joined by trees of {\it Ulmus} sp. Fallen dead individuals of both trees are straddling the stream, whilst localised areas where the {\it Ulmus} sp. have died-back have created areas with quite an open canopy. Here there tends to be a field layer with abundant {\it B. sylvaticum}. Most of the dead {\it Ulmus} sp. are suckering from their bases. At one point to the east of the gorge is an area of woodland with canopy trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica}, with bare ground underneath. Species noted along the dry bed of the stream include {\it Geum rivale, Angelica sylvestris} and {\it Veronica beccabunga}. 

Further along the stream the gorge and woodland gradually peter out and a track now runs along this section of the common (2), rising on the hillside to the north of the stream. The habitats here are a mixture of tall neutral grassland plus scattered scrub and trees. This grassland includes {\it Phleum pratense, Anisantha sterilis, Agrostis capillaris, Dactylis glomerata, Elytrigia repens} subsp. {\it repens, Holcus lanatus} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}. A diverse range of other associates include locally abundant {\it Geranium pratense}, locally frequent {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Urtica dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Potentilla reptans}, locally occasional {\it Torilis japonica, Cirsium arvense, Galium cruciata, Geum urbanum, Circaea lutetiana, Alchemilla} sp., {\it Veronica montana, Centaurea nigra, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Prunella vulgaris}. Occurring rarely were noted: {\it Stachys officinalis} and {\it Agrimonia eupatoria}, while one stand of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} was also noted. 

The scattered scrub and trees present in this area include {\it F. excelsior, C. monogyna, A. pseudoplatanus, Sambucus nigra, Rubus fruticosus} agg., and {\it Rosa canina}. Single planted individuals of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, F. excelsior} and {\it Betula pendula} were also noted. Occasional trees of {\it Ulmus} sp. continue along the course of the stream, mainly dead trees with a mixture of suckers and new seedlings. 

At the point where the stream fords the track (3), lies a dry limestone wall along the eastern edge of the common. This was noted to have an impressive growth of bryophytes which includes {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} and {\it Plagiomnium undulatum}, plus calcicole species such as {\it Plagiochila porreloides, Ctenidium molluscum, Thamnobryum alopecurum, Tortella tortuosa} and {\it Homalothecium sericeum}. There are also some well-developed colonies of {\it Asplenium adiantum-nigrum} on this wall.

At the edge of Foss Gill Lane leading towards Calton (4), are narrow, neutral grassland verges. Species noted along here include {\it Vicia sepium, Campanula rotundifolia, Ranunculus repens, Potentilla reptans, Heracleum sphondylium, Galium cruciata, Urtica dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Festuca rubra, Plantago lanceolata, Trisetum flavescens, Trifolium pratense, Phleum pratense, Achillea millefolium, A. elatius, Alchemilla} sp., {\it F. ulmaria, Centaurea nigra, Mercurialis perennis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Fragaria vesca, ? Mecanopsis cambrica, Prunus spinosa, Sambucus nigra, C. monogyna} and {\it Ribes uva-crispa}.

MANAGE:
The common appears largely unmanaged at present. The woodland in particular, appears generally undistrubed and is a small, but good quality example of a limestone gorge woodland. Note the presence of abundant dead wood in the form of fallen and standing elms. This attracts birds such as woodpeckers and nuthatch and the wood may also be used by a breeding pair of tawny owls. A survey of invertebrates is recommended, as the dead wood appears to offer much potential in this respect. Also a more detailed bryophtye survey. A policy of non-intervention for the woodland appears the best course of action. 

The track along the southern section of the common is used for access to adjacent fields. There is also little management of this area, although a handful of planted trees were noted here. Regeneration of dead elms by suckering. Botanically intersting grassland sward, with a good structural diversity, offering further invertebrate potential.  

Further survey and continued monitoring of this site recommended, the greater part of which appears to be of high nature conservation value in a local context.

In discussion with a local resident, the stream has until relatively recently, always flowed on the surface, but it now passes underground. This aspect is worth further investigation, for if this is the case, it may be very interesting in geomorphological terms.


FAUNA:
This block of commons forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI. These moors are of international importance for their breeding bird populations, particularly merlin and golden plover. As such, the SSSI is being considered for addition to the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds (the Birds Directive). The pSPA is of European importance because it is used regularly by at least 1 per cent of the British population of merlin and golden plover, two species listed on Annex 1 of the Directive. Other species listed on Annex are also present, namely peregrine, hen harrier and short-eared owl.

Areas of tall heather are favoured by breeding merlin and short-eared owl. The moorland burning regime provides the varied structure required by species like red grouse, golden plover and curlew. Snipe and redshank breed around the grassy and rushy edges of the moor, whinchat utilise the bracken and ring ouzels frequent gill-sides and rocky outcrops. Peregrine, hen harrier and buzzard forage over the moorland. A variety of other breeding species are recorded including teal, wheatear, twite, dunlin, common sandpiper and lapwing. Two colonies of gulls were known to be breeding above Upper Barden Reservoir.

A colony of green hairstreak butterflies has been recorded in the vicinity of Barden Beck, near Brass Castle (CL 417).


VEG:
The common comprises a stretch of the busy B6265 Skipton to Grassington Road, immediately south of Rylstone. The Yorkshire Dales National Park survey does not provide any information for this site. Attempts were made to undertake some survey work, but the speed and volume of traffic allowed only a very superficial inspection. 

For much of its length, almost the whole width of the common is occupied by the metalled road surface, leaving only very narrow colonised verges. Species noted from memory include: {\it Geranium pratense, Heracleum sphondyium, Artemisia vulgaris, Cirsium arvense, Sonchus sp., Centaurea nigra, Arrhenatherum elatius, Chamerion angustifolium, Rumex obtusifolius, Elytrigia repens, Polygonum aviculare} and ?{\it Chenopodium/Atriplex} spp., plus {\it Ulmus} sp. seedlings. 

The northern part of the common could be approached safely on foot from Rylstone village. To the eastern edge of the common here lies a narrow wooded strip, separated from the road by a dry stone wall. This comprises mainly {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, with some smaller {\it Ulmus} sp. and {\it Prunus} sp. An understorey of {\it Mercurialis perennis} could be made out in places. The western edge of the common in this area has a hedge with trees - {\it Crataegus monogyna} plus {\it A. pseudoplatanus}.

About 200m along the northern part of the common, to the eastern edge, lies a small lay-by big enough for one car. To the edge of this, mature {\it A. pseudoplatanus} trees are still evident, which have shrubs of {\it Ulmus} sp. and {\it C. monogyna}, with one tree of {\it Tilia} sp. also noted. Associated ground layer species include {\it Arctium minus, Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, Stachys sylvatica} and {\it M. perennis}.

Just south of this point, still on the eastern side, is a narrow triangular piece of ground, surrounded by dry stone walls. This has a sward of improved grassland and appears to be open to grazing from the adjacent field. Occasional trees of {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Ulmus glabra}, plus bushes of {\it C. monogyna} also present here.

MANAGE:
The main form of management on this site is that of maintaining the road. Activities will include things such as hedge trimming, grass mowing, plus gritting in winter. The latter has allowed the colonisation of some halophyte species. 

The small separate field to the east is grazed by stock from the larger adjacent grazing unit (type unknown).

No conservation value, although the trees to the north may provide some cover for birds.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: rook, swallow, blue tit, willow warbler.

VEG:
This small common lies within an area of low hills in the general area between Skipton and Cowling. Precise information on the acutal boundary of the common was not available at the time of the site visit. 

The major (southern) part of the common appears to be an enclosed field. 
Along the eastern edge of this lies a short slope with what appear to be a series of vegetated spoil mounds. Viewed from the road to the east, this part looks to have a mosaic of semi-improved acidic grassland. On more level ground to the west this appears to grade into an improved sward with frequent {\it Cirsium arvense}. The acidic sward has abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} with frequent {\it Holcus ? lanatus} and {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}. Other locally occasional/frequent associates include {\it Hypochaeris radicata, Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Plantago lanceolata, Trifolium repens, Achillea millefolium, Poa} sp. and {\it Galium saxatile}. Locally along this eastern edge there are also smaller areas of "unimproved" acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, and even a hint of an earlier heathland vegetation in the form of rare plants of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

To the extreme north of the common lies a small unfenced, unmanaged plot of ground. Given its small size, this has quite a complex mixture of habitats present. The greater part has a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland. The heath component is represented by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it V. myrtillus} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} amongst it, plus an understorey of abundant {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. The {\it Calluna} is mature and un-grazed (0.5-1.0m tall). This grades into acidic grassland with abundant {\it D. flexuosa}, frequent {\it N. stricta} plus locally frequent {\it Potentilla erecta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. To the SE, are also patches where tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea} make up an element of the vegetation. This represents transitions to the habitats of marshy grassland and also wet heath. In addition, several stands of {\it Chamerion angustifolium} (i.e. tall ruderals) were noted, mostly toward the margins of the area. Also noted occasionally from the heathy area were indiviuals of {\it Dryopteris dilatata}. 

On both of the long sides which adjoin the road/track, are strips of neutral grassland with tall ruderal species. Species noted from these areas include {\it Dactylis glomerata, Juncus effusus, Phleum pratense, Achillea millefolium, Centaurea nigra, Campanula rotundifolia, Rumex obtusifolius, Urtica dioica, Arrhenatherum elatius, Deschampsia cespitosa, Dryopteris filix-mas, Lotus corniculatus, Plantago lanceolata, Cirsium arvense, Ranunculus acris, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Trifolium pratense, Anthriscus sylvestris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Elytrigia repens, Hypochaeris radicata, Taraxacum officinale} agg. and {\it Leontodon autumnalis}. In addition, a small bush of {\it Crataegus monogyna} was also noted.

MANAGE:
The larger portion of the common appears to be surrounded by dry stone walls which pre-date registration. This area may have been used for quarrying. It is grazed, probably by sheep, although no stock were present at the time of the site visit. Grazing levels appear high, with signs of advanced eutrophication of the vegetation.

The northern tip is unmanaged. This area seems botanically quite varied and retains an element of dwarf shrub vegetation. A strip along the western side had been mowed recently - purpose unknown. A narrow drainage ditch also runs along the edge of the track at this side.

The verge along the eastern side has particularly well-developed specimens of {\it Campanula rotundifolia}, just beginning to flower at the time of the visit.


VEG:
The common lies to the east of the village of Bradley on land overlooking the Aire valley. It is situated within, and appears to form part of an area of enclosed, improved permanent pasture close to Newlands Farm. The site comprises two fields, separated by a dry stone wall which appears to have originated as part of the enclosure of the fields in this region.

MANAGE:
As already mentioned, the common is under the same form of management as the surrounding enclosed farmland. At the time of the site visit, hay-making was actively taking place. For example, the smaller of the two fields making up the common had recently been cut for hay. In addition, a part of the larger field had also been cut for hay, while part was noted to be grazed by sheep and cattle. The eastern side of the common is unfenced from the drive leading to Newlands Farm, and also the field beyond this.

Appears not to have any nature conservation interest, although survey of the grassland before hay-making is recommended.


FAUNA:
This block of commons forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI. These moors are of international importance for their breeding bird populations, particularly merlin and golden plover. As such, the SSSI is being considered for addition to the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds (the Birds Directive). The pSPA is of European importance because it is used regularly by at least 1 per cent of the British population of merlin and golden plover, two species listed on Annex 1 of the Directive. Other species listed on Annex are also present, namely peregrine, hen harrier and short-eared owl.

Areas of tall heather are favoured by breeding merlin and short-eared owl. The moorland burning regime provides the varied structure required by species like red grouse, golden plover and curlew. Snipe and redshank breed around the grassy and rushy edges of the moor, whinchat utilise the bracken and ring ouzels frequent gill-sides and rocky outcrops. Peregrine, hen harrier and buzzard forage over the moorland. A variety of other breeding species are recorded including teal, wheatear, twite, dunlin, common sandpiper and lapwing.

VEG:
The common comprises a portion of a block of commons lying to the north of Ilkley. The area was covered the Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the North Pennines during 1993 and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey of 1986 (see references). The former source has been used as the basis of this site description and the common was viewed only briefly from the road which runs along the extreme south-western edge. 

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section). Almost the entire area of the common lies within the boundary of the SSSI.

The common lies in the south-western portion of the block and comprises part of a plateau/ridge area running bewteen Round Hill and Beamsley Beacon. To the north and south-west are hillslopes leading into the valley of Kex Beck. 

The main habitat type is dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type H9). However, the slopes immediately north of Green Shaw Head (to the NE of the common) support a heath flora dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} with a little {\it Empetrum nigrum} (NVC type H18c), probably derived from {\it Calluna-Deschampsia} heath through a concentration of sheep grazing in this locality. There is an extensive lower fringe of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The western portion of White Hill supports acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). On the ridge itself there are a couple of gently-sloping areas which have seen the development of blanket mire (NVC type M20), dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}.

The hillslopes also support occasional small flushes characterised by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c).

The small outlying south-western portion is shown by the Phase 1 survey to comprise a mosaic of dry heath and acidic grassland dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. Scattered planted trees were also noted here during the site visit.

MANAGE:
The common and its contiguous neighbours are grazed by sheep and the areas of heath are also managed as grouse moor. The {\it Calluna} is generally in a good condition, with only localised evidence of selective high grazing by sheep, in the form of topiary-shaped bushes. These features tend to occur around the edges of the bracken on hillsides and around the margins of {\it J. effusus/S. recurvum} flushes.

There is frequent small-patch burning of the {\it Calluna} heath, usually done when it reaches a height of around 50-70cm tall. Grazing levels on the heath appear low, apart from the area of heath dominated by {\it V. myrtillus}, which may have resulted from selective grazing by sheep.

Much of the bracken on the gill-sides has been sprayed with herbicide, leaving areas covered by low-growing acrocarpous mosses such as {\it Pohlia nutans}, plus {\it Rumex acetosella} and patchy cover of fine-leaved grasses.

All {\it J. effusus/S. recurvum} flushes have been cut by drains.

The small, outlying western portion appears ungrazed. There has been some planting of scattered tree saplings on this part of the common (nature conservation/landscape/amenity reasons)?


FAUNA:
A survey of wading birds over Rylstone Fell and Embsay Moor was undertaken by NCC in 1983 (and now therefore rather out of date). This recorded golden plover, lapwing, dunlin, snipe, curlew and redshank. Two colonies of gulls were known to be breeding above Upper Barden Reservoir.

Among the more notable raptors recorded are hen harrier, short-eared owl and merlin.

VEG:
The common comprises one element of a block of common land lying to the north-east of Skipton that constitutes the Embsay Moor/Barden Moor complex. The area was covered by the Upland Phase 2 survey during 1993 (see references) and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey (1986). Only a very brief visit was made to the extreme south-eastern corner of the block (i.e. CLs 243/417/418).

This particular common in fact comprises a small portion of the open water of the Upper Barden Reservoir. For an account of the vegetation of the surrounding block of common land, please refer to the appropriate site descriptions.

MANAGE:
The common forms a part of what appears to be a water supply reservoir. For an account of the management of the surrounding catchment, please refer to the site descriptions for the surrounding commons.


VEG:
The common comprises one element of a block of common land lying to the north-east of Skipton that constitutes the Embsay Moor/Barden Moor complex. The area was covered by the Upland Phase 2 survey during 1993 (see references) and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey (1986). Only a very brief visit was made to the extreme south-eastern corner of the block (i.e. CLs 243/417/418).

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section). Only part of this particular common in fact lies within the SSSI boundary (i.e. to the north of the road).

The area is a tilted tableland which rises to an altitude of around 500m along the north-western edge. The highest points are Thorpe Fell Top (506m - CL 213) and Watt Crag (500m - CL 34). The plateau is bounded by steep escarpments to the north, north-west and south, while to the east there is a more gradual transition towards Wharfedale. Streams running mainly in a south-easterly or more southerly direction cut into the plateau. 

The underlying geology comprises the Carboniferous Millstone Grit series. Soils are Cambic stagnohumic gleys on the lower altitude eastern slopes and deep raw oligo-fibrous peat on the plateau. Escarpment slopes along Cracoe Fell (CL 34) have Ironpan Stagnopodsols, giving way on gentle slopes below to Cambic stagnohumic gleys. 

Habitats on this particular common include dry dwarf shrub heath, acidic grassland and dennse bracken. There are also a variety of rock outcrops. 

To the north of the road lies an area of rather suppressed dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). Other associates include {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Empetrum nigrum, Hypnum cupressiforme, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. 

Stands of acidic grassland are either of {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5) or {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U6). {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. inflexus} are locally abundant. Adjacent to the road, this vegetation is very closely grazed by sheep.

Dense stands of bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} have developed on moderately-steep slopes around the edges of the block, especially the southern edge, and also along gill-sides. Amongst the bracken are scattered trees of {\it Betula} spp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.

MANAGE:
The block is grazed by sheep and is also managed as grouse moor for sport. Grazing levels on the {\it Calluna} are moderately high on the southern half of the moor (with much "topiary" heather in evidence) and light to only locally heavy on the rest of the area to the north. Locally there has been almost cmplete loss of {\it Calluna} (e.g. Heugh Ground Head - CL 243), where there are masses of dead {\it Calluna}, with {\it V. myrtillus} apparently succeeding the heather. Existing heath vegetation on CL 418 also appears to be in a suppressed state.

There is supplementary feeding of stock in both the southern and northern parts of the moor. Widespread spraying of bracken on gill-sides with herbicide.

For a more comprehensive account of both the vegetation and management of this block of common land as a whole, please refer the the site descriptions of the adjacent commons.


VEG:
The common comprises a major portion of a block of commons lying to the north of Ilkley. The area was covered the Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the North Pennines during 1993 and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey of 1986 (see references). The former source has been used as the basis of this site description and the common was not visited during the course of the present survey.

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section).

The common comprises a plateau area of moorland, grading into gentle hillslopes to the west. The principal habitat type is dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). Within the heath are several large acidic flush and valley mire features, these being dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c). Drains were noted cutting into all such features, although they retain a high cover of {\it S. recurvum}, though often combined with much {\it Polytrichum commune}. 

The large mire at Toffit Ing (GR SE 105 571) is the most floristically interesting because, although much of it consists of {\it S. recurvum}-rich M6c, there are also areas of more base-rich flushing supporting {\it Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus} rush-pasture (NVC type MG10) and at least one stand of {\it Carex dioica-Pinguicula vulgaris} mire (M10). The {\it Holcus/Juncus} rush-pasture has more scattered and less-tussocky {\it J. effusus} than M6c and there is a high cover of grasses and frequent forbs, giving a much more species-rich community. Present here are {\it Agrostis stolonifera, Nardus stricta, Cirsium palustre, Ranunculus repens, Calliergon cuspidatum, Holcus lanatus, Cardamine} spp., and {\it Sphagnum squarrosum}.

The M10 mire has an abundance of Carices: {\it Carex viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. echinata} and {\it C. panicea}, with {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Bryum pseudotriquetrum, Calliergon cuspidatum, Drepanocladus revolvens, Juncus bulbosus, N. stricta} and {\it Potamogeton polygonifolius}. 

There are extensive stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (NVC type U20) along the valley of Pickles Gill Beck, with smaller areas elsewhere.

Along the north-eastern boundary of the common there is a narrow overlap with a plateau area of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (NVC type M20). This has abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Other associates are {\it Sphagnum recurvum, Campylopus paradoxus} and {\it Polytrichum commune}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and is also managed as grouse moor. The {\it Calluna} on the moor is generally in good condition, with only very localised evidence of high levels of grazing in the form of topiary-shaped {\it Calluna} bushes. These are found especially around the edges of the stands of bracken and around the margins of the {\it Juncus-Sphagnum} flushes/mires.

The {\it Calluna} is managed by frequent small-patch burning (on heath), usually once it has attained a height of around 50-70cm tall.

Much of the bracken on the gill-sides has been sprayed with herbicide, leaving areas covered by low-growing acrocarpous mosses (incl. {\it Pohlia nutans}), plus {\it Rumex acetosella} and patchy fine-leaved grasses.

All {\it J. effusus/Sphagnum} flushes have been cut by drains.


VEG:
The common comprises one element of a block of common land lying to the north-east of Skipton that constitutes the Embsay Moor/Barden Moor complex. The area was covered by the Upland Phase 2 survey during 1993 (see references) and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey (1986). Only a very brief visit was made to the extreme south-eastern corner of the block (i.e. CLs 243/417/418). 

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section).

The area is a tilted tableland which rises to an altitude of around 500m along the north-western edge. The highest points are Thorpe Fell Top (506m - CL 213) and Watt Crag (500m - CL 34). The plateau is bounded by steep escarpments to the north, north-west and south, while to the east there is a more gradual transition towards Wharfedale. Streams running mainly in a south-easterly or more southerly direction cut into the plateau. 

The underlying geology comprises the Carboniferous Millstone Grit series. Soils are Cambic stagnohumic gleys on the lower altitude eastern slopes and deep raw oligo-fibrous peat on the plateau. Escarpment slopes along Cracoe Fell (CL 34) have Ironpan Stagnopodsols, giving way on gentle slopes below to Cambic stagnohumic gleys. 

Habitats within the block include some areas of blanket mire on the plateau surrounded by extensive areas of dry heath. The lower-lying southern and eastern portions of the block include a number of valley mire and flush features. Occasional gills and sheltered lower/marginal slopes support stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, whilst there are also small areas of acidic grassland, sometimes occurring as a mosaic with heath vegetation where these adjoin the main blocks of heather moorland.

The blanket mire is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC M20b). Other dwarf shrubs include {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. The most abundant moss is {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, while Sphagna are local in occurrence - {\it Sphagnum capillifolium} and {\it S. papillosum} developing in wet hollows. The present distribution of the existing stands of blanket mire on deep peat on the high ground suggests that about half the peat cover on the high ground of the block has been stripped-off. 

The major part of the plateau supports dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). The most frequent associates are {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Hypnum cupressiforme, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. Above about 400m on Burnsall and Thorpe Fell (CL 213) and Out Fell/Rylstone Fell (CL 158), other dwarf shrubs (i.e. {\it V. myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}) begin to share dominance with {\it Calluna}.

Note that {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs in an area of {\it Calluna} heath near the summit triangulation point on Thorpe Fell Top (CL 213) at 506m. 

Heathland on the north-western escarpment above Cracoe is dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type H18c: {\it Racomitrium lanuginosum-Cladonia} spp. sub-community). Within this are scattered severely-pruned tufts of {\it Calluna} (<5.0cm tall), suggesting that these slopes, currently dominated by {\it V. myrtillus}, were once {\it Calluna}-dominated. The most abundant moss in this heath is {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, with {\it Dicranum scoparium, Plagiothecium undulatum} and {\it Campylopus paradoxus} frequent. In addition, {\it Pleurozium schreberi} is locally abundant.

Stands of acidic grassland are either of {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5) or {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U6), sometimes supporting flushes of NVC type M6c ({\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Carex echinata}). As mentioned above, mosaics of these grasslands and the adjoining heathland communities also occur where the communities interface.

More extensive flushes and valley mires also occur, again supporting vegetation of NVC type M6c. There is a high cover of {\it S. recurvum}, often mixed with {\it Polytrichum commune}. Many stands of this vegetation are fringed with areas of {\it Juncus effusus-Festuca ovina} grassland, indicating that these areas are attracting high sheep numbers.

Dense stands of bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} have developed on moderately-steep slopes around the edges of the block, especially the southern edge, and also along gill-sides. Amongst the bracken are scattered trees of {\it Betula} spp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.


VEG:
The common comprises a minor element of a block of common land lying to the north-east of Skipton that constitutes the Embsay Moor/Barden Moor complex. The area was covered by the Upland Phase 2 survey during 1993 (see references) and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey (1986). Only a very brief visit was made to the extreme south-eastern corner of the block (i.e. CLs 243/417/418).

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section).

The area is a tilted tableland which rises to an altitude of around 500m along the north-western edge. The highest points are Thorpe Fell Top (506m - CL 213) and Watt Crag (500m - CL 34). The plateau is bounded by steep escarpments to the north, north-west and south, while to the east there is a more gradual transition towards Wharfedale. Streams running mainly in a south-easterly or more southerly direction cut into the plateau. 

The underlying geology comprises the Carboniferous Millstone Grit series. Soils are Cambic stagnohumic gleys on the lower altitude eastern slopes and deep raw oligo-fibrous peat on the plateau. Escarpment slopes along Cracoe Fell (CL 34) have Ironpan Stagnopodsols, giving way on gentle slopes below to Cambic stagnohumic gleys. 

Habitats on this particular common comprise one small block of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with, to the south of this, an area of dense bracken {it Pteridium aquilinum} within which are smaller areas of acidic grassland and acidic flush. 

The dry heath appears typical of that elsewhere on the block and is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). The most frequent associates in general are {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Hypnum cupressiforme, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. 

Dense stands of bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} have developed on moderately-steep slopes around the edges of the block, especially the southern edge, and also along gill-sides. Amongst the bracken are scattered trees of {\it Betula} spp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.   

Stands of acidic grassland in general are either of {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5) or {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U6), sometimes supporting flushes of NVC type M6c ({\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Carex echinata}).

MANAGE:
The block is grazed by sheep and is also managed as grouse moor for sport. Grazing levels on the {\it Calluna} are moderately high on the southern half of the moor (with much "topiary" heather in evidence) and light to only locally heavy on the rest of the area to the north. Locally there has been almost cmplete loss of {\it Calluna} (e.g. Heugh Ground Head - CL 243), where there are masses of dead {\it Calluna}, with {\it V. myrtillus} apparently succeeding the heather. 

There is supplementary feeding of stock in both the southern and northern parts of the moor. Widespread spraying of bracken on gill-sides with herbicide.

For an account of the management of the block of common land as a whole, please refer to the site descriptions for other commons concerned.


VEG:
The common lies on land to the east of the Dales Village of Airton and is underlain by the Carboniferous Limestone. There is a full Phase 1 map and target notes available from the Yorkshire Dales National Park (1987/88). The common was not visited.

The major part of the common is mapped as having a mosaic of semi-improved neutral and acidic grasslands. The latter is shown to be dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Nardus stricta}. There are number of flushed areas present and many of these are base-rich in character. Species recorded from these include {\it Juncus inflexus, Sanguisorba minor, S. officinalis, Briza media, Valeriana dioica, Carex flacca, C. panicea, C. hostiana, C. pulicaris, C. viridula} (both subsp. {\it oedocarpa} and {\it brachyrrhyncha}), and {\it Succisa pratensis}. Also mentioned for GR SD 9134 5967 are {\it Primula farinosa} (nationally scarce), plus {\it Parnassia palustris}.

N.B. Nationally Scarce = species recorded from between 16-100 ten km squares of the Ordnance Survey grid (JNCC, 1994). 

To the eastern edge of the common is an area mapped as marshy grassland (GR SD 922 597). This is described as being "sedge-dominated" as per the flushed areas, "but some marshy grassland species including {\it Menyanthes trifoliata}". Also recorded here are {\it Caltha palustris} and {\it Mentha aquatica}. 

At the western edge, the common is contiguous with CL 141 which runs along Foss Gill. A section of the deciduous woodlands occupying the gill run out onto the edge of this common. For a full account of these woodlands please refer to CL 141.

MANAGE:
The common is permanent pasture and appears to be grazed by cattle. Signs of eutrophication evident from the target notes. Notable for the occurrence of the species-rich flushes. Phase 2 and byrophyte survey of these would be beneficial, as would continued monitoring of the site to review the extent of eutrophication since date of original survey.


FAUNA:
The site is managed for the shooting of red grouse. 

A survey of wading birds over Rylstone Fell and Embsay Moor was undertaken by NCC in 1983 (and now therefore rather out of date). This recorded golden plover, lapwing, dunlin, snipe, curlew and redshank. Two colonies of gulls were known to be breeding above Upper Barden Reservoir.

Among the more notable raptors recorded are hen harrier, short-eared owl and merlin.

A colony of green hairstreak butterflies has been recorded in the vicinity of Barden Beck, near Brass Castle (CL 417).

VEG:
The common comprises one element of a block of common land lying to the north-east of Skipton that constitutes the Embsay Moor/Barden Moor complex. The area was covered by the Upland Phase 2 survey during 1993 (see references) and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey (1986). Only a very brief visit was made to the extreme south-eastern corner of the block (i.e. CLs 243/417/418).

The area is a tilted tableland which rises to an altitude of around 500m along the north-western edge. The highest points are Thorpe Fell Top (506m - CL 213) and Watt Crag (500m - CL 34). The plateau is bounded by steep escarpments to the north, north-west and south, while to the east there is a more gradual transition towards Wharfedale. Streams running mainly in a south-easterly or more southerly direction cut into the plateau. 

The underlying geology comprises the Carboniferous Millstone Grit series. Soils are Cambic stagnohumic gleys on the lower altitude eastern slopes and deep raw oligo-fibrous peat on the plateau. Escarpment slopes along Cracoe Fell (CL 34) have Ironpan Stagnopodsols, giving way on gentle slopes below to Cambic stagnohumic gleys. 

Habitats within the block include some areas of blanket mire on the plateau surrounded by extensive areas of dry heath. The lower-lying southern and eastern portions of the block include a number of valley mire and flush features. Occasional gills and sheltered lower/marginal slopes support stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}, whilst there are also small areas of acidic grassland, sometimes occurring as a mosaic with heath vegetation where these adjoin the main blocks of heather moorland.

The blanket mire is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC M20b). Other dwarf shrubs include {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. The most abundant moss is {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, while Sphagna are local in occurrence - {\it Sphagnum capillifolium} and {\it S. papillosum} developing in wet hollows. The present distribution of the existing stands of blanket mire on deep peat on the high ground suggests that about half the peat cover on the high ground of the block has been stripped-off. 

The major part of the plateau supports dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). The most frequent associates are {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Hypnum cupressiforme, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. Above about 400m on Burnsall and Thorpe Fell (CL 213) and Out Fell/Rylstone Fell (CL 158), other dwarf shrubs (i.e. {\it V. myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}) begin to share dominance with {\it Calluna}.

Note that {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs in an area of {\it Calluna} heath near the summit triangulation point on Thorpe Fell Top (CL 213) at 506m. 

Heathland on the north-western escarpment above Cracoe is dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type H18c: {\it Racomitrium lanuginosum-Cladonia} spp. sub-community). Within this are scattered severely-pruned tufts of {\it Calluna} (<5.0cm tall), suggesting that these slopes, currently dominated by {\it V. myrtillus}, were once {\it Calluna}-dominated. The most abundant moss in this heath is {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, with {\it Dicranum scoparium, Plagiothecium undulatum} and {\it Campylopus paradoxus} frequent. In addition, {\it Pleurozium schreberi} is locally abundant.

Stands of acidic grassland are either of {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5) or {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U6), sometimes supporting flushes of NVC type M6c ({\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Carex echinata}). As mentioned above, mosaics of these grasslands and the adjoining heathland communities also occur where the communities interface.

More extensive flushes and valley mires also occur, again supporting vegetation of NVC type M6c. There is a high cover of {\it S. recurvum}, often mixed with {\it Polytrichum commune}. Many stands of this vegetation are fringed with areas of {\it Juncus effusus-Festuca ovina} grassland, indicating that these areas are attracting high sheep numbers.

Dense stands of bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} have developed on moderately-steep slopes around the edges of the block, especially the southern edge, and also along gill-sides. Amongst the bracken are scattered trees of {\it Betula} spp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: PD - blackbird, curlew, jackdaw, lapwing, magpie. KAC - swallow, meadow pipit, curlew.

VEG:
The common comprises a peripheral section of the Bowland Fells, with a long northern projection following along Keasden Road.

The northern half of the common (i.e. N. of gridline 635) is a mosaic of marshy and unimproved acid grassland. It includes the Keasden Moor SSSI (see map).

The marshy grassland is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}, with locally frequent {\it Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus, Agrostis capillaris, 
Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Nardus stricta, Poa} spp., {\it Cardamine pratensis, Cirsium palustre, Lotus pendunculatus, Luzula multiflora, Ranunculus acris, R. repens} and {\it Rumex actosa}, plus occasional {\it Achillea ptarmica, Calluna vulgaris, Carex demissa, C. echinata, C. hirta, C. panicea, Juncus 
conglomeratus, J. inflexus, Aulacomnium palustre, Polytrichum commune, Sphagnum palustre} and {\it S. papillosum}. 

The most diverse area of marshy/acidic grassland was found within the Keasden Moor SSSI, which contains all the species mentioned above. The SSSI is notable as being the only site in the Yorkshire Dales area for the nationally scarce {\it Gentiana pneumonanthe}. This species is associated with relatively open areas of wet heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses. Small patches of this vegetation occur in a mosaic with the surrounding marshy and acidic grassland. The small pond in the SSSI (SD 725 664) is fringed with {\it Juncus effusus, Juncus acutiflorus, Phalaris arundinacea} var. {\it picta, Cardamine pratensis} and {\it Ranunculus flammula}. Also recorded from here are {\it Epilobium palustre, Achillea ptarmica} and {\it Scutellaria minor}. 

The marshy grassland described above grades into areas of acid grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Juncus squarrosus, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella}, plus occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Polygala vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Polytrichum commune}.

The narrower sections of the common along Keasden Road also have areas of scattered and dense scrub dominated by {\it Ulex europaeus}.

South of grid line 635, the common was mostly surveyed from the public road, using binoculars. Within 10 to 200m of the road, there are short heavily-grazed areas of acid grassland, which grade into what appears to be {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}-dominated dry modified bog, with locally frequent {\it Calluna vulgaris, Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Distinct areas of {\it Calluna vulgaris/Vaccinium myrtillus} heath are visible around areas of outcropping rock (e.g. Mill Stone and Foster's Crags, SD 7261). 

A number of {\it Juncus effusus/Sphagnum} spp.-dominated flushes are also visible. Those surveyed (nearest the road) contained {\it Sphagnum palustre, S. papillosum}, and {\it S. recurvum}, with frequent {\it Polytrichum alpestre, P. commune}, and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, plus occasional {\it Aulacomnium palustre, Sphagnum capillifolium, Carex curta, C. viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. echinata, C. nigra, C. ovalis, C. panicea, C. pulicaris, Deschampsia cespitosa, Erica tetralix, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Ranunculus flammula} and {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos}.         
      
As a complete on-site survey of this common was not carried out (due to time constraint), most of the survey information shown on the map for the southern half is from the 1990 Craven Vegetation Survey, in which most of this area was recorded as NVC community U5 ({\it Nardus 
stricta-Galium saxatile} grassland).

MANAGE:
Used for sheep and cattle grazing. Dwarf shrub vegetation to the south of the common was observed to be in a suppressed condition. No evidence of management for grouse rearing (i.e. recent heather cutting or burning) was seen.


FAUNA:
No information on fauna relating to this particular common.

VEG:
The Phase 1 survey shows the major portion of this common to comprise "wet bog" dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. There are no specific target notes available. 

The classification of blanket mires under the Phase 1 system was subsequently revised in the NCC standard methodology of 1990. The above habitat type may now belong to either E161 - blanket mire or E18 - dry modified bog. The latter category has indications of some form of degradation (e.g. bare peat/high proportion of grasses) and a low percentage of {\it Sphagnum}. It is not possible from the habitat map alone to correctly place "wet bog" into either of the two new categories. However the decision has been made to place all of this habitat into E161 unless definite indications degradation and/or low {\it Sphagnum} cover are evident. There was insufficient time within the scope of the present survey to re-survey all areas of this habitat to effect a translation into the new Phase 1 classification.

To the SE of the common lies a small area of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}.


VEG:
The common lies on the flood plain of the River Ouse, to the east of Cawood. This area is now drained agricultural land, protected by a flood barrier along the edges of the river.

There are no rights of way across the common and so it was not possible to survey it in detail. However, it was possible to view it through binoculars from a footpath to the north and also from the SW, at a point along the Ouse flood barrier.

The whole area within which the common lies, is now under arable production. The route of a new pipeline currently under construction crosses the area and also possibly the common itself.

Many of the field boundaries across the area have now been lost, and the common could not made out as a discrete unit.

There may be occasional {\it Salix alba} and other deciduous trees remaining in association with some of the old boundaries, but this would need further investigation.

MANAGE:
Managed as part of an area under intensive arable production. No apparent nature conservation interest.


FAUNA:
No information relating to the fauna of this particular common.

VEG:
The common forms part of a block of upland commons lying in the area between Buckden and Aysgarth. The area was covered by the NCC survey of upland habitats by Ratcliffe and Birks, undertaken during 1984. It is recognised that this source of information is now rather out of date. A visit to the common was also made during the course of the present survey (PD).

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

This particular common comprises part of a plateau, with steep northern slopes. The plateau is covered with blanket peat of a type vegetated with {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Other associates noted during the site visit were abundant {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, frequent {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses ({\it S. papillosum, S. palustre} and {\it S. capillifolium}), plus locally frequent {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. Locally within this are small areas of species-poor acidic grassland dominated either by {\it Nardus stricta} or {\it Juncus squarrosus}.

To the eastern end of the plateau, this vegetation grades into similar acidic grassland, with scattered blanket mire that is rich in {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} due to burning (i.e. probably Phase 1 'E18' - dry modified bog).

On the steep slope to the north is acidic grassland, either characterised by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}, or further areas of {\it Nardus stricta}. In addition, the presence was also noted of some carpets of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, thus giving a heathy element to the vegetation. 

On the lower part of the slope, there are some outcrops of limestone and the grassland in this vicinity has been very closely-cropped ({\it Agrostis/Festuca})?  Frequent {\it Thymus polytrichus} noted here, in addition to scattered clumps of {\it Urtica dioica}.

Associated with an area of old lead workings on Wasset Fell is an area of dry {\it Calluna vulgaris}-dominated heath.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. Levels appear high on the grassland slope to the north. Some evidence of burning noted by PD.


VEG:
The common forms part of a block of upland commons lying in the area between Buckden and Aysgarth. The area was covered by the NCC survey of upland habitats by Ratcliffe and Birks, undertaken during 1984. It is recognised that this source of information is now rather out of date. A visit to the common was also made during the course of the present survey (PD).

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

This particular common comprises part of a plateau, with steep slopes along the north-western edge. The plateau is covered with blanket peat of a type vegetated with {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Other associates noted during the site visit were abundant {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, frequent {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses ({\it S. papillosum, S. palustre} and {\it S. capillifolium}) plus locally frequent {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. Locally within this are small areas of species-poor acidic grassland dominated either by {\it Nardus stricta} or {\it Juncus squarrosus}.

Along the steep marginal slope there is acidic grassland. On the upper part this is dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus}, while along the base of the slope there is an {\it Agrostis/Festuca} sward. There are also small areas within this of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} heath vegetation.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. Levels appear high on the grassland slope to the north.


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

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

The common effectively forms a horseshoe of upland habitat around the head of the valley of Walden Beck. Plateau areas support blanket peat. On the northern side of the valley (Naughtberry Hill) this is of a type vegetated with {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Other associates noted during the site visit were abundant {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}, frequent {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses ({\it S. papillosum, S. palustre} and {\it S. capillifolium}) plus locally frequent {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens.

At the head of the valley and along the southern side, the blanket mire appears to belong to the Phase 1 category of 'E18' - dry modified bog. To the east of Buckden Pike, this vegetation is of a type where {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} has replaced {\it Calluna vulgaris} due to the effect of burning. However, most of the remainder appears to be of the typical species-poor degraded Pennine blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with sparse dwarf shrub cover due to burning and grazing.

On steeper slopes at the head of the valley there are extensive areas of acidic grassland dominated largely by {\it Nardus stricta} or {\it Juncus squarrosus}, with smaller areas of {\it Agrostis/Festuca}. This apparently sheltered valley also supports some stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

At the foot of the southern slope runs a feature known as Crag Brea. This supports a narrow strip of dry heath vegetation dominated by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. There is a further strip of this habitat associated with the disused Hard Rake Quarries to the south of Buckden Pike.

In addition, the blanket mire on this part of the common is also shown to support flush features dominated either by {\it Juncus acutiflorus} and bryophytes (probably a base-rich type) or {\it Carex rostrata/Sphagnum recurvum}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep, although there is no information relating to grazing levels.


FAUNA:
Noted during the brief site visit were: meadow pipit, willow warbler, curlew, pheasant, jackdaw, carrion crow, swallow, robin, wood pigeon, rabbit, large white butterfly.

VEG:
The common forms part of a block of upland commons lying in the area between Buckden and Aysgarth. The site effectively comprises two portions lying along either side of Coverdale.

The majority of the northern portion, which includes a section of Braidley Moor, was covered by the NCC survey of upland habitats by Ratcliffe and Birks, undertaken during 1984. It is recognised that this source of information is now rather out of date. However, there was insufficient time to update this survey during the course of the present project, although ideally this should be done. 

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

Habitat information for the remainder of the common has been taken from the Phase 1 survey. This source relates mainly to the southern portion - Cow Side, which forms the slopes down into Coverdale from the summit of Little Whernside.

In addition, a brief inspection of part of the common was possible from the Coverdale road. 

The more gently sloping ground along both sides supports areas of blanket peat. On the flanks of Braidley Moor, this supports a type of vegetation dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with few dwarf shrubs due to burining and grazing. This appears to represent typical degraded Pennine blanket mire (i.e. Phase 1 'E18' - dry modified bog).

A further area of blanket bog occurs below the summit of Little Whernside, on the southern side of Coverdale. Covered by the North Yorkshire Phase 1 survey in the late 1980s, this has also been translated as 'E18' under the standard NCC (1990) methodology as adopted for the Common Land Survey. The earlier method used a slightly different definition for blanket mire types and did not recognise categories of degraded bog. Therefore this vegetation ideally needs re-surveying to correctly assign this habitat to either 'E18' the degraded/{\it Sphagnum}-poor type, or 'E161' the intact/{\it Sphagnum}-rich type. Unfortunately there was insufficient time to to this during the course of the present survey.

On steeper slopes, the blanket peat gives way to acidic grassland dominated by either {\it Juncus squarrosus} or {\it Nardus stricta}. Locally, as on the slopes to the north of the valley, there is also acidic/neutral flushing dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}.

Alongside the River Cover the grassland appears heavily-grazed and semi-improved in character. Two small, planted, fenced blocks of woodland were noted within this area, one pure coniferous and one mixed broadleaved/coniferous. 

Finally, on the lower slopes, immediately along the southern side of the river, lies a small block of broadleaved woodland dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa}, with 'fingers' stretching up adjacent small gillsides. Other species noted during the site inspection were {\it Betula} sp., {\it Fraxinus excelsior, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Abundant {\it Pteridium aquilinum} in field layer.


FAUNA:
Noted in the general vicinity during the site visit were: skylark, oystercatcher, curlew, carrion crow, lapwing, meadow pipit.

VEG:
The common straddles the North Yorkshire/Cumbria border, to the east of Dentdale, and indeed lies partially within Cumbria itself. The site comprises a relatively narrow strip of upland that runs from Wold Fell in the south, crossing the head of Arten Gill and onto the flanks of Great Knoutberry Hill in the north.

The site does not appear, for some reason, to have been covered by the Yorkshire Dales Phase 1 survey, although this source provides good infrmation for adjacent habitats in that county. The Cumbrian portion, however, is covered by that county's Phase 1 survey. There is good information for the limestone pavements at Wold Fell, which overlap with the southern portion of the common. The remaining habitats on the common were mapped initially using aerial photograph coverage and this was refined during a visit to the site. The common was viewed from along the bridleway that runs past Arten Gill Moss. From here, a concessionary path runs along the Cumbrian side of the western boundary to the summit of Great Knoutberry Hill. From this point, almost the whole of the common could be seen.

(1). The slopes to the east of Great Knoutberry Hill support dry modified bog dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, with occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}. Some bare peat/hagging was evident and locally, this vegetation gives way to acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}.

(2). Below this the slope becomes steeper and there is a band of pure acidic grassland punctuated by a number of Millstone Grit boulders.

(3). A more gentle slope here supports remnants of deep peat/dry modified bog within acidic grassland.

(4). In the area above the bridleway, there is outcropping limestone surrounded by what appears to be a very heavily-grazed and improved grassland sward, with scattered plants of {\it Cirsium vulgare} present. Away from the limestone there is further acidic grassland.

(5). The bridleway/track is used by vehicles and is very badly rutted/eroded.

(6). Arten Gill Moss comprises a further expanse of blanket peat supporting dry modified bog vegetation as above. Much hagging of peat evident, revealing a depth of as much as 2.0m. The moss is fringed by a mosaic of {\it N. stricta/J. squarrosus} acidic grassland, set in a mosaic with marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}.

(7). The southern part of the common (not visited) includes a portion of the Wold Fell limestone pavements. These are formed from limestone of the Yoredale Series. Species recorded from the pavements as Wold Fell as a whole  include {\it Asplenium viride, Cystopteris fragilis, Chrysosplenium alternifolium, Saxifraga hypnoides, Adoxa moschatellina, Cochlearia officinalis, Mercurialis perennis, Viola riviniana} and {\it Oxalis acetosella}. The clint tops include species such as {\it Botrychium lunaria} and the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}. Open calcicolous grassland in between the pavements is also shown to be dominated by {\it S. caerulea}, with some {\it Agrostis capillaris}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. Grazing levels appear quite high, with the stock favouring, in particular, the more palatable grassland associated with the limestone outcrops north of the track, which appears to have taken on an improved character.


FAUNA:
No information on fauna relating specifically to this particular common.

VEG:
The common lies at the fringe of Kexwith Moor and in fact appears to be situated within County Durham. The site forms part of a block of land that was covered by English Nature's Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the Northern Pennines during the early 1990s.

Most of the common lies within an area of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (NVC type M20). Locally there are small areas of acidic grassland dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U6). Along the slope to the south adjoining Arndale Beck, there is an area of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (U20), within which occurs a mosaic of acidic/neutral flush vegetation dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (M6c). 

For a more comprehensive account of the vegetation of this block of common land, please refer to the site accounts for the contiguous CL 43 and the nearby CL 142.


VEG:
The common comprises a portion of a block of commons lying to the north of Ilkley. The area was covered the Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the North Pennines during 1993 and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey of 1986 (see references). The former source has been used as the basis of this site description and the common was viewed only very briefly from the road to the extreme south of the common.

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section). A major portion of the common lies within the boundary of the SSSI. 

The common lies on the southern edge of the block and comprises moderate/gentle slopes. The main habitat type is dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). Other associates include patchy {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and widespread {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. On the summit of Round Hill, at the extreme NE point of the common, there are scattered patches of {\it Cladonia} spp. lichens. Occurring in damp hollows within the {\it Calluna} dry heath are small areas of wet heath. These constiture some of the most botanically rich areas of the moor, and include abundant {\it Erica tetralix}, variable amounts of {\it Calluna, Molinia caerulea} and often {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and Sphagna ({\it Sphagnum papillosum, S. recurvum} and, occasionally, {\it S. compactum}) - NVC type M16.

Along the gill-sides and southern fringes of the common are stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The southern part of the common supports acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). Within the {\it Nardus} grassland were noted patchy, suppressed and also dead plants of {\it Calluna}, suggesting that in some areas, loss of {\it Calluna} has been recent. The Phase 2 survey report comments upon evidence from 1974 aerial photographs, which also suggests that there has been a recent decline in the cover of {\it Calluna}.

Scattered throughout this grassland are occasional {\it Juncus effusus-Sphagnum recurvum} flushes (NVC type M6c). One large such feature of this community-type has been mapped as a valley mire.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and is managed as grouse moor. However, on Middleton Moor, the southern section, widespread and heavy sheep grazing has apparently resulted in extensive loss of {\it Calluna} and its replacement by {\it Nardus stricta}. This is supported by the presence of dead and topiary heather in patchy heath being invaded by {\it Nardus}. In addition, there are exclosures in which {\it Calluna} is thriving, in contrast to its poor state outside.

The heather moorland elsewhere is managed by frequent small-patch burning. {\it Calluna} is generally left until at least 50cm tall before burning and there is also patchy mature to over-mature {\it Calluna} to around 70cm tall.

The main area of heather moorland appears only lightly grazed, although there is localised heavy grazing around the margins of stands of {\it J. effusus/Sphagnum recurvum} flush and bracken, where the sheep tend to congregate, resulting in suppressed {\it Calluna} in the surrounding heath.


VEG:
The common comprises a portion of a block of commons lying to the north of Ilkley. The area was covered the Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the North Pennines during 1993 and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey of 1986 (see references). The former source has been used as the basis of this site description and the common was viewed only very briefly from the road crossing the extreme southern tip. 

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section). However, only the northern tip of the common lies within the boundary of the SSSI.

The common lies on the southern edge of the block and comprises moderate/gentle slopes. The northern part of the common supports a mosaic of dry and wet heath types, plus stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The dry heath is typical of extensive areas of this habitat type occurring across the rest of the block and is dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). Other associates include patchy {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and widespread {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}. Wet heath occurs in damp hollows and represents some of the most botanically rich areas of the moor, and includes abundant {\it Erica tetralix}, variable amounts of {\it Calluna, Molinia caerulea} and often {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and Sphagna ({\it Sphagnum papillosum, S. recurvum} and, occasionally, {\it S. compactum}) - NVC type M16.

The southern part of the common supports acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). Within the {\it Nardus} grassland were noted patchy, suppressed and also dead plants of {\it Calluna}, suggesting that in some areas, loss of {\it Calluna} has been recent. The Phase 2 survey report comments upon evidence from 1974 aerial photographs, which also suggests that there has been a recent decline in the cover of {\it Calluna}.
 
Scattered throughout this grassland are occasional {\it Juncus effusus-Sphagnum recurvum} flushes (NVC type M6c).

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and is managed as grouse moor. However, on Middleton Moor, the southern section, widespread and heavy sheep grazing has apparently resulted in extensive loss of {\it Calluna} and its replacement by {\it Nardus stricta}. This is supported by the presence of dead and topiary heather in patchy heath being invaded by {\it Nardus}. In addition, there are exclosures in which {\it Calluna} is thriving in contrast to its poor state outside.

The heather moorland elsewhere on this block of commons is managed by frequent small-patch burning. {\it Calluna} is generally left until at least 50cm tall before burning and there is also patchy mature to over-mature {\it Calluna} to around 70cm tall.

The main area of heather moorland appears only lightly grazed, although there is localised heavy grazing around the margins of stands of {\it J. effusus/Sphagnum recurvum} flush and bracken, where the sheep tend to congregate, resulting in suppressed {\it Calluna} in the surrounding heath.


VEG:
The common comprises a portion of a block of commons lying to the north of Ilkley. The area was covered the Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the North Pennines during 1993 and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey of 1986 (see references). The former source has been used as the basis of this site description and the common was not visited during the course of the present survey. 

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section). This particular common lies entirely within the boundary of the SSSI.

The common lies on the southern edge of the block and comprises moderate/gentle slopes. The main habitat type is dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). Other associates include patchy {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and widespread {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}.

Middleton Moor enclosure is generally dominated by dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (NVC type U20), amongst which there appears to be a complex pattern of acidic/neutral flush dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}, with a moss layer generally comprising {\it Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. 

In the southern part of Middleton Moor enclosure, at least one base-rich flush was also noted (NVC type M10), with {\it Carex viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. panicea, Prunella vulgaris, Drepanocladus revolvens, Anagallis tenella, Succisa pratensis, Erica tetralix, Calliergon cuspidatum, Ctenidium molluscum, Nardus stricta} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. 

Also here there are small stands of {\it Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus} rush-pasture (NVC MG10). These have been translated as Phase 1 'B5' - marshy grassland, although it may be a neutral grassland habitat (requires quantification of {\it Juncus} abundance for correct Phase 1 habitat determination).

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and is managed as grouse moor. The heather moorland is managed by frequent small-patch burning. {\it Calluna} is generally left until at least 50cm tall before burning and there is also patchy mature to over-mature {\it Calluna} to around 70cm tall.

The main area of heather moorland appears only lightly grazed, although there is localised heavy grazing around the margins of stands of {\it J. effusus/Sphagnum recurvum} flush and bracken, where the sheep tend to congregate, resulting in suppressed {\it Calluna} in the surrounding heath.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: willow warbler, wren, small skipper.

VEG:
The common lies close to the Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs. There was no survey information readily available and the following description is therefore based entirely on notes made during the course of the present survey.

The central part of the common lies on a gentle north-west facing slope. Here there is a transitional marshy/acidic grassland sward. This has tussocks of {\it Molinia caerulea} in between which are abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, frequent {\it Galium saxatile}, occasional {\it Potentilla erecta} plus locally occasional {\it Rumex acetosa} and {\it Luzula ? multiflora}. This may represent a transitional NVC M25/U2 sward. A further element of this vegetation are patches dominated by {\it Juncus conglomeratus} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}, with locally occasional {\it Galeopsis tetrahit} and {\it Carex nigra}. Rarely there are small patches dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, while along the northern edge it appears to progress to a pure {\it D. flexuosa} acidic grassland sward. Other associates here are locally abundant {\it Holcus mollis} and locally frequent {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}.

Along the edges of the roads, the above vegetation merges into a wide verge which has a mixture of neutral grassland and tall ruderals, plus areas of scrub and trees. This grassland has species such as {\it Holcus mollis, Phalaris arundinacea, Agrostis capillaris, Dactylis glomerata, Alopecurus pratensis, D. cespitosa, Elytrigia repens} and {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}.  Herbs and ruderal associates of this grassland include {\it Chamerion angustifolium, Urtica dioica, Stellaria graminea, S. holostea, Anthriscus sylvestris, Lathyrus pratensis, Heracleum sphondylium, Centaurea nigra, Equisetum arvense, Filipendula ulmaria, Digitalis purpurea, Cirsium arvense, C. vulgare, Ranunculus acris, Vicia cracca, Epilobium hirsutum, Potentilla anserina} and {\it Galium aparine}.

Areas of shrub/tree development include {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Acer pseudoplatanus, Ulex europaeus, Fraxinus excelsior, Crataegus monogyna, Betula pendula, Rubus fruticosus} agg., {\it R. idaeus, Sorbus aucuparia, Salix cinerea} and {\it S. capraea}. In fact the cover of trees/shrubs is quite high and this probably represents a progression to true broadleaved woodland in parts.

Along the western edge of the common runs a ditch. This has a band of neutral grassland dominated by {\it Holcus mollis} and frequent {\it D. cespitosa}. Also noted along here: {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Silene dioica, Stellaria holostea, R. fruticosus} agg., {\it Ulex europaeus, Chamerion angustifolium, Centaurea nigra}, plus occasional trees of {\it F. excelsior}.

MANAGE:
The common is unmanaged. Although small, the rank vegetation of the common is quite varied in composition. It has a high structural diversity and it may represent a locally important invertebrate habitat. The marginal areas appear to be progressing to woodland. This will probably further increase the conservation interest of the site. 

The presence of the bonfire sites at the edge represents a potential threat to this part of the common and may be encouraging the incursion of ruderal species. A further threat is the apparent use of this corner of the common as a short-cut by farm vehicles.

Recommended: Non-intervention, but monitoring of encroachments.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, black-headed gull, house sparrow, lapwing, swallow. Rabbits were seen in the southernmost field, near Fell Beck.

VEG:
The common was surveyed from the public footpath only and adjacent minor roads (using binoculars). The area of acidic grassland at Green Brackens (SE 192 673) is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris}, with frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Cerastium fontanum, Festuca ovina} and {\it Rumex acetosella}, plus occasional {\it Veronica serpyllifolia}. Other areas of acidic grassland on the common appear to have a similar species composition. {\it Lolium perenne, Poa} spp. and {\it Trifolium repens} become frequent where the acidic grassland grades into improved grassland. Generally, only those areas of grassland where rock outcrops are frequent remain in an unimproved or semi-improved state. 

Three very small enclosures situated in field corners in the NW quarter of the common contain trees of {\it Fagus sylvatica}.

MANAGE:
Mostly used for sheep and cattle grazing. Fields mapped as arable are {\it Lolium perenne} leys; they are probably cut for silage. New farm buildings and a slurry pool appear to have been constructed at Kingston Farm since the OS map was produced.


FAUNA:
Noted during the brief site visit were: meadow pipit, curlew, red grouse. 

This block of commons forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI. These moors are of international importance for their breeding bird populations, particularly merlin and golden plover. As such, the SSSI is being considered for addition to the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA) under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds (the Birds Directive). The pSPA is of European importance because it is used regularly by at least 1 per cent of the British population of merlin and golden plover, two species listed on Annex 1 of the Directive. Other species listed on Annex are also present, namely peregrine, hen harrier and short-eared owl.

Areas of tall heather are favoured by breeding merlin and short-eared owl. The moorland burning regime provides the varied structure required by species like red grouse, golden plover and curlew. Snipe and redshank breed around the grassy and rushy edges of the moor, whinchat utilise the bracken and ring ouzels frequent gill-sides and rocky outcrops. Peregrine, hen harrier and buzzard forage over the moorland. A variety of other breeding species are recorded including teal, wheatear, twite, dunlin, common sandpiper and lapwing.

VEG:
The common comprises a major portion of a block of commons lying to the north of Ilkley. The area was covered the Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the North Pennines during 1993 and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey of 1986 (see references). The former source has been used as the basis of this site description and the common was viewed only briefly from alongside the A59.  

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section). A major portion of the common lies within the boundary of the SSSI.

1. Blubberhouses Moor.                            

This is the major portion of the common, lying to the south of the A59. This  gently rounded block of moorland rises gradually from the Washburn Valley to 409m on Round Hill (situated along the south-western boundary of the common - GR SE 122 535). The central portion of the common is cut by tributaries of Gill Beck running eastward and shorter streams run northwards into Kex Beck and Hall Beck. The terrain is mainly gentle, only becoming moderately steep overlooking Kex Gill and Hall Beck along the northern edge.

The main habitat type is dry dwarf shrub heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (NVC type H9). The {\it Calluna} is overwhelmingly dominant, with occasional {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and widespread {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}.

Along the steeper slopes in stream valleys there is dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (NVC type U20). Much of this has been sprayed with herbicide. On more gently-sloping ground and at the heads of tributary streams there are often areas of acidic/neutral flush with {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum} spp. (NVC type M6c). On Blubberhouses Moor, {\it Sphagnum recurvum} is generally of a low abundance, with large hummocks of {\it Polytrichum commune} and there is also much grass. This may be due to a combination of grazing combined with moderately heavy grazing.

On the flat shelf of Blubberhouses Moor there is a moderately large area of dry modified bog dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} sub-ordinate (NVC type M20).

2. Kex Gill Moor. 

This forms part of a larger plateau area lying to the north of the A59. Above around 380m the plateau is largely covered by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (NVC type M20b) generally dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} as above, with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} also occurring to the west.

The eastern part of this area supports a further stand of {\it Calluna vulgaris} dry heath (NVC type H9).

There are several large acidic flush features of NVC type M6c. Generally they have a high cover of {\it S. recurvum}, often with {\it P. commune} also abundant.

Acidic grassland occurs mainly at the moor edge and on gill-sides in association with bracken, {\it J. effusus} flushes and heath. The discrete area of acidic grassland mapped just north of the A59 is of NVC type U5, dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}. Stands of U6 - {\it Juncus effusus} also occur, while {\it Holcus lanatus-Juncus effusus} rush pasture (MG10) also occurs locally at the moor edge.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and is also managed as grouse moor for sport. The heather moorland is managed by frequent small-patch burning (mainly on the heath). {\it Calluna} is generally allowed to grow to 50cm tall before burning and there is also some patchy mature-overmature {\it Calluna} to around 70cm tall. There is little evidence of burning on the blanket mire.

Overall grazing levels appear low, although there are areas of very localised heavy grazing, which is resulting in some local loss of {\it Calluna}. This mainly occurs around the edges of stands of {\it Juncus effusus-Sphagnum} flush and bracken, where the sheep tend to congregate, resulting in suppressed {\it Calluna} in the adjacent heath vegetation. This phoenomenon can also be observed adjacent to supplementary feeding points. In addition, there appears to have been long-term loss of {\it Calluna} on the western portion of the blanket mire Kex Gill Moor (fenced from the eastern portion, which is still {\it Calluna}-dominated). 

Note that the eastern, {\it Calluna}-rich portion of this area of blanket mire has been extensively "gripped".

All of the areas of {\it J. effusus-Sphagnum} flush examined closely during the Phase 2 survey were noted to have been drained. This, coupled with grazing was considered to have induced the patchy cover of {\it Sphagnum} and the general abundance of {\it Polytrichum commune}.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visit were: blackbird, willow warbler, blue tit, blackcap, wren, carrion crow, distant curlew, rabbits, grey squirrel, meadow brown butterfly, large white butterfly.

VEG:
The common follows a small valley running off fells on the eastern side of Wharfedale, a few km along from Ilkley.

Eariler surveys provide only sketchy habitat information, so the following description is based on notes made during the present survey. 

There are two small portions of the common lying along the road through the hamlet of Nesfield. These comprise an infrequently-cut sward of amenity grassland.

The remainder of the common follows the tributary valley of Dean Beck in a north-easterly direction. This particular site lies mainly along the slopes to the west of the valley, while the contiguous CL 615, lies to the eastern side.

A strip of broadleaved woodland follows the valley floor. This appears to change somewhat in composition along the course of the valley. In the lower section, adjacent to Nesfield (1), there is a canopy predominantly of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. Undershrub species here include {\it Ulmus glabra, F. excelsior} seedlings, {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa canina}. The field layer includes species such as {\it Geum urbanum, Lapsana communis, Poa ? nemoralis, Geranium robertianum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex ? sanguineus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Viola riviniana}. There are also local stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and other areas with bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Bryophytes are locally abundant and include {\it Isopterygium elegans, Mnium hornum} and {\it Atrichum undulatum}. 

A little further along, the wood narrows to be closely confined along the course of the beck. Here the canopy, in addition to the above trees, also has areas dominated by {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Several very large standing dead trees are present along this section, possibly either {\it A. glutinosa} or {\it F. excelsior}. 

Along the uppermost section of the wood (2), it comprises a vary narrow section along the constricting valley and has a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia, F. excelsior} and {\it Ulmus} sp., plus a scattered field layer which includes {\it C. monogyna} plus an occasional multi-stemmed coppiced individual of {\it Corylus avellana}. Field layer species along this part include {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus mollis, Digitalis purpurea, Oxalis acetosella, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, P. aquilinum, Dyropteris filix-mas} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}. Several well-developed mature {\it Quercus} sp. trees were noted along here, some with an abundance of dead branches present. 

The hillside along the western edge of the common is generally dominated by dense bracken. Locally there are scattered scrub and trees which include {\it Quercus} sp., {\it C. monogyna, Corylus avellana, Sambucus nigra, Sorbus aucuparia, A. pseudoplatanus, Rosa canina} and {\it Ulex europaeus}.  Occasionally there are discrete small patches of acidic grassland within the bracken. In places this is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}, while elsewhere there are {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Galium saxatile}. To the southern part of this area, in the vicinity of Lower Dene Farm (3), there also small patches of tall neutral grassland plus tall ruderals (e.g. {\it Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}). Further north (4) is a small depression containing a sward of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}.

At one point to the east of the path there is a bank where clearings in the bracken support a more diverse acidic grassland sward. This is dominated by {\it A. capillaris}, with frequent/abundant {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Festuca ovina}, locally frequent {\it Pilosella officinarum, Stachys officinalis} and {\it Potentilla erecta}, plus locally occasional {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Leontodon autumnalis, Lotus corniculatus} and {\it Pimpinella saxifraga}. This grassland appears to be transitional community, probably belonging to the acidic grassland NVC type U4c, which overlaps with the calcicolous grassland community CG10a.

MANAGE:
The common is largely unmanaged at present. There appears to be some history of past woodland management (e.g. hazel coppice in understorey). The boundary with the contiguous CL 615 is formed for the most part by the course of the beck. Note portion excluded from registration. The boundary walls around this area have now fallen into disrepair and are badly overgrown by bracken as per the surrounding common land.

The mosaic of habitats on the common appears to be of relatively high local nature conservation importance. The diversity of woodland types, plus the scattered trees and scrub extending onto the adjacent slopes, appear to have a high potential value to birds of woodland/woodland edge. There is a good quantity of standing and fallen dead timber within the wooded section, creating habitat for dead wood invertebrates and food for woodpeckers etc. The beck may also be visited by herons, dippers and wagtails. There are other sources of plant litter around the common in the form of bracken, plus fallen leaf litter. 

Rabbits appear to be important grazers locally. For example, the species-rich areas of acidic grassland are closely grazed by rabbits and this has probably been important in maintaining a short, herb-rich sward, and also in preventing bracken encroachment in these areas.

The path to the extreme north of the common appears to have been grazed by an occasional sheep. These are probably being driven along this route between the adjoining fields. 

On the eastern side of the beck, to the north, there has been a large amount of rubble dumped on the bank. However, it is not entirely clear whether this is actually on common land.

At the southern tip of the common, at the entrance to the main track, a sign has been erected in relation to the tipping of rubbish in the adjacent woodland here (Section 187 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1990). This section of the track used as a route for driving cattle by the farmer.


VEG:
The common forms two small elements of a block of moorland lying to the north of Ilkley. The area was covered by the Phase 2 survey of upland habitats in the North Pennines during 1993 and there is an earlier Phase 1 survey of 1986 (see references). The former source has been used as the basis of this site description and the common was not visited during the course of the present survey.

This block of common land forms one element of the West Nidderdale, Barden and Blubberhouses Moors SSSI, which has been scheduled for the international importance of their blanket mire and heather moorland vegetation and for their breeding bird populations (see fauna section). However, only two small portions of the common actually lie within the boundary of the SSSI.

The major portion of the common comprises what appear to be a series of enclosed fields of acidic grassland, the larger portion of which is dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC type U6). Scattared across this grassland are shown to be flushes dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c), with a larger such feature overlapping with the north-eastern portion.

The south-eastern enclosure supports a semi-improved sward dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC U5).

The smaller portion of the common (see map for CL 481), is shown to comprise part of an extensive marginal area (i.e. Blubberhouses Moor) of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.


VEG:
The common follows the tributary valley of Dean Beck, running off fells on the eastern side of Wharfedale, a few km along from Ilkley. This particular site lies mainly along the slopes to the east of the valley, while the contiguous CL 502, lies to the western side. A small outlying portion of the common lies further up the beck (see map).
 
Eariler surveys provide only sketchy habitat information, so the following is based on notes made during the present survey. 

To the south of the common (1), a strip of broadleaved woodland follows the valley floor. The canopy is predominantly of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}, plus locally, {\it Alnus glutinosa}. Several very large standing dead trees are present to the north of this section, possibly either {\it A. glutinosa} or {\it F. excelsior}. 
 
Undershrub species here include {\it Ulmus glabra, F. excelsior} seedlings, {\it Sambucus nigra, Crataegus monogyna, Ilex aquifolium, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Rosa canina}. The field layer includes species such as {\it Geum urbanum, Lapsana communis, Poa ? nemoralis, Geranium robertianum, Anthriscus sylvestris, Rumex ? sanguineus, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Viola riviniana}. There are also local stands of {\it Urtica dioica} and other areas with bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. Bryophytes are locally abundant and include {\it Isopterygium elegans, Mnium hornum} and {\it Atrichum undulatum}. 

Further north the woodland is much more open, and has something of a parkland/wood pasture appearance (2). This comprises a canopy of {\it Quercus} sp. trees (around 50 per cent cover). There are few undershrubs, just a very occasional individual of {\it Corylus avellana} and there are no regenerating trees. Some of the mature {\it Quercus} sp. trees have dead sections present. The field layer is dominated by a grazed grassland sward of {\it Holcus mollis} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. Along the stream, and also along a tributary stream up the valley-side, there are occasional trees of {\it A. glutinosa}. On the upper slopes of the valley the wood appears to become even thinner, with a transition to neutral grassland plus scattered trees. 

Further to the north, there is a further area with a wood pasture character (3). The trees are again mainly {\it Quercus} sp., with occasional {\it Fraxinus excelsior}, plus an occasional bush of {\it Crataegus monogyna} in the open grassland. This grassland appears to be a mixture of acidic and neutral types, mainly dominated again by {\it A. capillaris} and {\it H. mollis}. Locally there are areas with a closely rabbit-grazed turf which have locally frequent {\it Pilosella officinarum, H. radicata, Leontodon autumnalis, Potentilla erecta}, plus locally occasional {\it Campanula rotundifolia} and {\it Stachys officinalis}. There is also a carpet of the mosses {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it Pleurozium schreberi}.

The isolated northern portion (4) comprises a vestigial strip of the wood along the constricting valley. This has trees of {\it Quercus} sp., {\it Sorbus aucuparia, F. excelsior} and {\it Ulmus} sp., plus a scattered field layer which includes {\it C. monogyna} plus an occasional multi-stemmed coppiced individual of {\it Corylus avellana}. Field layer species along this part include {\it Agrostis capillaris, Holcus mollis, Digitalis purpurea, Oxalis acetosella, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Urtica dioica, Galium aparine, P. aquilinum, Dryopteris filix-mas} and {\it Athyrium filix-femina}.

MANAGE:
This side of the valley is grazed, contrasting with the contiguous CL 615 to the west. The boundary is marked in the main, by the beck, which has a fence in parts. No stock present at time of visit, although there appears to be a long history of grazing, to the effect that much of the common has the character of wood pasture. Parts rabbit-grazed. Note presence of dead branches on some trees. Also note area of tipped rubble on hillside within area (2).


FAUNA:
Recorded from within the SSSI in general:

Northern brown argus, roe deer, common lizard, red grouse, curlew, redstart, willow warbler and woodcock.

VEG:
The common forms a small portion of the Ingleborough SSSI and is situated on slopes flanking the eastern side of Simon Fell. The habitat map and the following description of the common have been based on the SSSI citation and other information from English Nature's scientific files for the site. The site is also listed in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977).

Note that the SSSI also forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

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

Associated with the various acidic and basic strata, together with drift and peat which obscure the rocks over large areas, there is a wide range of vegetation types. 

There is a fine series of limestone pavements within the SSSI as a whole, which occur in particular on the shelf of the Carboniferous limestone on the west and south-western sides of the massif. The common appears to have outcropping limestone only along its eastern edge, with a small extent of pavement in the SE corner. Typically the limestone pavements are open, sheep-grazed communities with a rich grike flora of woodland herbs such as {\it Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Sanicula europaea} and ferns such as {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium} and {\it Cystopteris fragilis}. They also provide habitat for uncommon species such as {\it Polysticum lonchitis} plus the nationally scarce {\it Dryopteris submontana} and {\it Actaea spicata}.

The common also supports sevaral stands of calcicolous grassland. That on the eastern fringe of the common occurs on shallow soils in association with limestone outcrops and comprises a relatively species-rich turf dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. This contains abundant {\it Thymus polytrichus, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Leucobryum glaucum}. A second stand further to the west occurs on drift of a greater depth is shown to comprise a species-poor sward dominated by {\it Festuca ovina}. There is a further area of calcicolous grassland occurring in association with the above-mentioned pavements.

However, the most extensive habitats of this particular common are blanket mire and acidic grassland. Blanket mire is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with varying amounts of {\it E. angustifolium, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. This community appears to translate to the Phase 1 habitat category of 'E18' - dry modified bog. Elsewhere the blanket mire gives way to acidic grassland dominated generally by either {\it Nardus stricta} or {\it Juncus squarrosus}. There appear also to be areas transitional between dry bog and acidic grassland.

Other relevant target notes:

GR SD 764 746: "Rich springhead and runnel communities with {\it Cochlearia officinalis} subsp. {\it alpina} and {\it Chrysosplenium oppositifolium}".

GR SD 766 741: "A {\it Carex rostrata-Sphagnum recurvum} mire, with nearby {\it Sphagnum} pools, surrounded by a sward of {\it Carex curta}. These communities are unique within the SSSI".

MANAGE:
The area is used extensively for sheep grazing.  There is also on-going management necessitated by heavy recreational use.


FAUNA:
Noted during the brief site visit were: meadow pipit, curlew.

VEG:
The common lies within the northernmost fringe of the Bowland Fells and is situated along the boundary of North Yorkshire with Lancashire. The area was covered by a Phase 1 survey of the Craven District (1990), by Judith Allinson. Only a brief visit was made to the common, viewing it from the road that crosses the western portion.

The site comprises a northern section of Burn Moor and includes a portion of the plateau area to the south and the northern slopes of this hill. The hilltop and sections of the slopes support extensive stands of dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. In places this gives way to a mosaic of heath with acidic grassland, the latter being dominated by either {\it Juncus squarrosus} or {\it Nardus stricta}. There are more extensive areas of pure acidic grassland on slopes and gillsides to the north of the common, plus several stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

To the north-west, the area known as "Bents" encompasses a mosaic of wet heath and acidic grassland. The dwarf shrubs comprise only around 10 per cent ground cover: {\it Calluna vulgaris} (very suppressed by grazing) and {\it Erica tetralix}. Other associates include {\it Eriophorum vaginatum, Trichophorum cespitosum, Molinia caerulea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Carex nigra, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Polytrichum commune} and {\it Festuca ovina}, plus a variety of {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses.                

The northern slopes include three large valley mire complexes, plus a number of other acidic flushes. Species noted from these include {\it Juncus effusus, J. acutiflorus, Sphagnum} spp., {\it Eriophorum} spp., {\it Viola palustris, Agrostis canina, Carex curta, C. rostrata, C. nigra} and {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos}. There are also reported to be small area of calcareous flush present.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep and the areas of heather are managed as grouse moor. The pattern of burns could clearly be seen on the heath of the upper slopes. Sheep grazing intensity appears to he highest on the lower, northern slopes and dwarf shrubs on this part of the common appear to be in a suppressed state.


FAUNA:
The site as a whole is of interest for breeding birds with snipe, redshank, curlew, lapwing, reed bunting and linnet recorded.

VEG:
The common lies to the west of Clapham in the south-western part of the county. The common is largely coincident with the SSSI of the same name. A small portion of the SSSI does not form part of the common and there are also several areas of the common outside the SSSI (mainly along the wastern edge). Part of the SSSI is listed in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), whilst the remainder has subsequently been accepted as of NCR standard.

The following description and habitat map have been based upon the SSSI citation and information in the scientific file. The site supports an outstanding complex of wetland communities reflecting a wide variation in land form, soil and water conditions. The traditional management of the area as common land has maintained the extensive mosaic of habitats in an otherwise modified lowland grassland setting.

The most extensive habitat type occurring on the common is marshy grassland dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} (NVC type M25). In the main, this is species-poor vegetation on shallow peat. Locally, however, the presence of {\it Erica tetralix, Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} provides a heathy element to the vegetation. Recorded from some hollows are {\it Narthecium ossifragum, Vaccinium oxycoccos} and {\it Salix repens}. 

To the north of the site, flushed {\it Molinia} grassland occurs in bands on either side of the roads. There is a distinct ridge-hollow system, with species-rich basic flushes (see below), or {\it Juncus} sp. flushes in the hollows and a more heathy community with {\it Sphagnum} spp., {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna} and {\it Molinia} on the ridges.

Shallow valleys and the margins of basin mires (see below) support {\it Juncus acutiflorus-Galium palustre} rush pasture (NVC type M23). {\it J. acutiflorus} dominates, with occasional {\it J. effusus, J. conglomeratus} and {\it J. articulatus}. Other grasses include {\it M. caerulea, Holcus lanatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Agrostis stolonifera}, whilst a range of herbs includes {\it Galium palustre, Lotus pedunculatus, Angelica sylvestris, Caltha palustris, Achillea ptarmica, Cirsium palustre, Myosotis scorpioides, Mentha aquatica, Lychnis flos-cuculi, Ranunculus flammula, Stellaria media, Cardamine pratensis, Potentilla palustris, Carex panicea, C. nigra} and {\it C. echinata}. Scarce components of this vegetation are {\it Serratula tinctoria} and {\it Dactylorhiza} spp. orchids.

The common also supports several basin mires and a number of different fen and flush communities, distributed according to base status and hydrological regime. The most extensive and species-rich feature of this type is Hardacre Moss (basin mire). Without a more detailed knowledge of the bryophytes, categorisation into NVC communities is difficult. However, there appears to be a mosaic of the following types:

S27 {\it Carex rostrata-Potentilla palustris} tall herb fen occurs in the wettest areas at the eastern end and is very species-poor with only {\it C. rostrata, Potentilla palustris} and {\it Menyanthes trifoliata} being frequent. 

The three {\it Carex rostrata} communities M4, M5 and M6 are also probably present, together with M16 {\it Erica tetralix} heath near the margins and M21 {\it Narthecium ossifragum-Sphagnum papillosum} valley mire near the western end. This latter is typically more a southern community, but its presence is suggested by the local constance of {\it Erica tetralix, Molinia, N. ossifragum, Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Drosera rotundifolia}, with {\it Myrica gale} and {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos}. In addition, there are open pools with {\it Potamogeton} sp., ombrotrophic {\it Sphagnum} hummocks and short sedge hollows with {\it Carex panicea, C. echinata, C. nigra, C. curta, D. diandra, Triglochin palustris} and most probably in the wettest areas, {\it Carex limosa}.

S7 {\it Carex acutiformis} swamp occurs in small patches along the Crook Beck valley.

The edge of the mire is suffering from the effects of slurry run-off with 'fans' of {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} intruding.

The common is notable for a variety of base-rich flushes which all fall within NVC type M10. These support a number of nationally and locally uncommon species such as the nationally scarce {\it Primula farinosa} plus {\it Anagallis tenella, Parnassia palustris, Pinguicula vulgaris, Blysmus compressus} and {\it Selaginella selaginoides}. Other associates include {\it Carex panicea, C. viridula} subsp. {\it brachyrryncha, C. hostiana, C. echinata, C. pulicaris, Linum catharticum, Molinia, Eriophorum angustifolium, Euphrasia officinalis} and {\it Eleocharis qinqueflora}.

M27 {\it Filipendula ulmaria-Angelica sylvestris} mire (i.e. Phase 1 'B5' - marshy grassland) occupies small valleys and streamsides in the north of the site, being best-developed along the valley of Crook Beck, south of Newby. Many areas have suffered from heavy slurry contamination and contain species such as {\it Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Rumex obtusifolius, Arrhenatherum elatius, Galium aparine, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}, in addition to a range of species typical of the community, namely {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Angelica sylvestris, Valeriana officinalis, Iris pseudacorus, Centaurea nigra} and {\it Lotus pedunculatus}. Along the valley of Crook Beck, {\it Iris pseudacorus dominates, {\it Filipendula ulmaria} probably having been reduced by the practice of restricting cattle in the valley with an electric fence. 

Much of the vegetation growing in and along the margins of streams and ditches crossing the site falls within the {\it Sparganium erectum-Mentha aquatica} sub-community of the S22 {\it Glyceria fluitans} swamp. The main species here are {\it Glyceria fluitans, Sparganium erectum, Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum} and {\it Myosotis scorpioides}.

On better-drained areas, the {\it Molinia} grassland gives way to smaller areas of generally species-poor {\it Nardus stricta} acidic grassland (NVC type U5). Other local associates include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and more occasionally, {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Calluna vulgaris, Carex nigra, Eriophorum vaginatum, Juncus effusus, Rumex acetosa} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. There are records from this type of vegetation for {\it Genista tinctoria}.

Locally, mainly along the roadsides, there have been heavy applications of slurry in recent years, resulting in an increasing dominance by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Cirsium arvense}, with the sward becoming more neutral in character, with {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Trifolium repens} as frequent components.

Ponds, streams and old mine spoil heaps provide additional features of interest and the pond in the disued limestone quarry (GR SD 712 697) supports {\it Alisma lanceolatum}. Calcicolous grassland has developed within the old quarry here and is dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris}. Other associates include {\it Thymus polytrichus, Briza media, Campanula rotundifolia, Linum catharticum, Pilosella officinarum} and {\it Lotus corniculatus} (NVC type CG10). On the steepest slopes of the spoil heaps north of the railway, more species-rich grassland occurs with {\it Sanguisorba minor, Galium verum} and {\it Leontodon hispidus}.

Other habitats: 

Small distinct patches of wet heath occur on the {\it Molinia} plateau about Hardacre Moss and probably fall into the M16 {\it Erica tetralix-Sphagnum compactum} wet heath community. 

Acidic flush vegetation is relatively uncommon on the site, but mostly belongs within NVC type M6.

Scattered scrub of {\it Ulex} sp. restricted largely to drier banks with a light grazing regime. A few bushes of {\it Salix capraea} occur toward the eastern area of Hardacre Moss.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep, with the site free of sheep only at lambing time and tupping. There may also be occasional grazing by cattle. There is localised supplementary feeding of stock in harsh winter weather. Occasional hay crop taken on parts (see below). Present grazing levels are not considered to be a problem.

Much of the marshy grassland on the common has been affected to some extent by widespread recent and heavy applications of slurry. In some areas, applications have been sufficiently heavy to reduce the sward to a bed of thistles and nettles. Elsewhere near the roads in the north of the site, small areas have effectively been converted into {\it Holcus lanatus-Trifolium repens} swards which are mown for hay. Where applications have been less-heavy or where there is run-off down ditches and channels, such as along the fringe of Hardacre Moss, {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} becomes the dominant species.


VEG:
The common forms one element of the Oxenber and Wharfe Woods SSSI, which lies just to the east of Austwick. As well as woodland, the SSSI supports areas of limestone pavement (though none occurs on this particular common), acidic and calcicolous grassland and flush communities. This SSSI in turn forms one small element of the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

Although no limestone pavement is present, the common supports at least one discrete area of calicolous grassland. Across the site as a whole, this type of habitat is dominated by the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}. Other associates include {\it Helianthemum nummularium, Thymus drucei, Pilosella officinarum, Carex caryophyllea, Campanula rotundifolia, Fragaria vesca, Helictotrichon pratense, Carlina vulgaris, Festuca rubra, Ranunculus bulbosus, Poterium sanguisorba, Bellis perennis, Alchemilla} sp. and {\it Conopodium majus}.  

On deeper soils, and on this common where bands of Millstone Grit outcrop below the limestone, are swards of acidic grassland. Typically this contains {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Nardus stricta} with varying amounts of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. In fact, over the Millstone Grit, there is also a {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} grassland which contains {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Luzula ? campestris, Carex ? binervis, Galium saxatile} and rare {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Wet areas also have {\it Molinia caerulea, Sphagnum} spp. and {\it Polytrichum ? commune} with drier {\it V. myrtillus} hummocks.

Much of the woodland on the southern part of common has traditionally been grazed and might more accurately be described as wood-pasture. On thin limestone soils, the dominant treee species are {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Corylus avellana}, with some {\it Crataegus monogyna} and {\it Sorbus aucuparia}. The field layer shows both elements of woodland and grassland communities. The former is represented by species such as {\it Mercurialis perennis, Oxalis acetosella, Sanicula europaea, Orchis mascula, Primula vulgaris, Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and {\it Carex sylvatica}. The grassland element is represented by an abundance of {\it Sesleria caerulea} with species such as {\it Thymus polytrichus, Primula veris, Carex flacca, C. caryophyllea, Carlina vulgaris, Filipendula ulmaria, Valeriana officinalis} and {\it Poterium sanguisorba}.

Woodland in the northern part of the common displays the influence of more acid soils. The canopy is dominated by {\it Betula} spp., {\it C. avellana, S. aucuparia} and {\it Ilex aquifolium}, with a field layer comprising a mixture of {\it Anemone nemorosa, Deschampsia cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, H. non-scripta, Nardus stricta, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. One patch of {\it Leucobryum glaucum} was also recorded.

Also in the northern part of Wharfe Wood is a marsh community (Phase 1 'E21' - acidic/neutral flush?) in which {\it Juncus} spp. and {\it Carex} spp. are abundant. This includes {\it Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus, J. articulatus, Carex hostiana, C. nigra, C. panicea} and {\it C. echinata} and these are accompanied by herbs such as {\it Caltha palustris, Narthecium ossifragum, Mentha aquatica, Triglochin palustris} and {\it Valeriana dioica}.


FAUNA:
There are no records of fauna relating specifically to this particular common.

VEG:
The common lies to the west of Giggleswick village, adjoining the boundary with Lancashire and is situated on the extreme north-eastern fringe of the Bowland Fells. The area has been covered by the Craven District Phase 1 habitat survey. In addition, the common was also walked during 1992, along a public footpath that provides a route onto the contiguous CL 286, which lies within Lancashire. Brief target notes were made at this time (KAC).

The major feature of the common is a large valley mire complex, which forms a very distinctive topographical feature. This contains two main vegetation communities. The first is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum, Sphagnum} spp. (incl. {\it S. recurvum, S. papillosum}) and {\it Polytrichum commune} (NVC type M19b). Other associates include locally frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Eriophorum angustifolium, Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Carex nigra}. The second community is dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} with {\it P. commune} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c).

On the slopes surrounding the valley mire the main habitat is acidic grassland of some type. In wet areas this is dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus} (NVC type U6), whilst drier swards are dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC U5). Other associates of both types include {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, P. commune, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. Locally within this grassland there appear to be small remnants of peat, where the grasses are accompanied by species typical of degraded bog, such as {\it Eriohporum vaginatum, E. angustifolium} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. 

At the western tip of the common is an area of high ground which supports dry heath vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}, with locally frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}.

Several stands of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. There is no physical boundary between this common and the contiguous Lancashire CL 286 (as at 1992) - thus allowing free movement of livestock across the two sites.


VEG:
The common lies almost entirely within and forms a significant portion of the Ingleborough SSSI. The habitat map and the following description of the common have been based on the SSSI citation and other information from English Nature's scientific files for the site. The site is also listed in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977).

Note that the SSSI also forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

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

Associated with the various acidic and basic strata, together with drift and peat which obscure the rocks over large areas, there is a wide range of vegetation types. Where limestone occurs at the surface, there is a calcareous grassland dominated by the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}. 

There is a fine series of limestone pavements, which occur in particular on the shelf of the Carboniferous limestone on the west and south-western sides of the massif. Typically these are open, sheep-grazed communities with a rich grike flora of woodland herbs such as {\it Mercurialis perennis} and {\it Sanicula europaea} and ferns such as {\it Phyllitis scolopendrium} and {\it Cystopteris fragilis}. They also provide habitat for uncommon species such as {\it Polysticum lonchitis} plus the nationally scarce {\it Dryopteris submontana} and {\it Actaea spicata}. By contrast, the pavements of Moughton Scar support extensive areas of juniper {\it Juniperus communis} scrub. Many of the pavements also support lenses of peat which give rise to a close association of acidic habitats.

The crags of the summit plateau (CLs 134 and 208) support an Arctic-Alpine flora that includes the nationally scarce {\it Poa alpina} in addition to {\it Saxifraga oppositifolia, S. aizoides} and {\it Sedum rosea}. 

Extensive areas of blanket mire occur on the common, being dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with varying amounts of {\it E. angustifolium, Deschampsia flexuosa} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}. This community appears to translate to the Phase 1 habitat category of 'E18' - dry modified bog. Where flushing occurs the blanket bog becomes floristically richer with {\it Drosera rotundifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccos} and {\it Narthecium ossifragum}. 

In fact, a diverse variety of flush types occur throughout the SSSI, their species composition and diversity relating to the chemical composition of the water. Where this is acidic or neutral, flushes tend to be species-poor and dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}. With increasing base-input, this vegetation grades into a community characterised by the presence of {\it Carex panicea, Epilobium palustre} and {\it Succisa pratensis}. A diverse range of species are associated with base-rich flushes and include {\it Filipendula ulmaria, Achillea ptarmica, Trollius europaeus, Schoenus nigricans, Eleocharis quinqueflora, Blysmus compressus, Sedum villosum} (this latter being nationally scarce), plus the "Schedule 8" {\it Arenaria norvegica} subsp. {\it anglica}. There are also spring-head flushes characterised by {\it Cratoneuron commutatum}.

On steeper slopes away from outcropping limestone, the blanket mire gives way to acidic grassland dominated generally by either {\it Nardus stricta} or {\it Juncus squarrosus}. There appear also to be areas transitional between dry bog and acidic grassland, for example around Simon Fell, to the NE of the common.

To the extreme southern tip of the common, {\it Molinia caerulea} becomes co-dominant, marking a transition to a marshy grassland sward.

Additional target note:

GR SD 724 724: "Fluted hole is a large pot hole, with rich fern vegetation including {\it Asplenium trichomanes, Athyrium filix-femina, Cystopteris fragilis, Phyllitis scolopendrium} and {\it Polystichum aculeatum}".

There are also records for three nationally rare species from within the SSSI as a whole: {\it Alchemilla glaucescens, A. minima} and {\it Viola rupestris}, plus the nationally scarce {\it Primula farinosa}.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted (PD): curlew, house sparrow, jackdaw, lapwing, mallard, swallow.

VEG:
The common comprises three parcels of land lying adjacent to the River Wenning, just to the south of Clapham railway station.

The section north of the River Wenning (SD 740 678) is mostly marshy grassland, with peripheral areas of acidic, neutral, calcareous and improved grassland. The marshy grassland occupies the highest ground and is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea}, with locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex hirta, C. panicea, C. pulicaris, Cynosurus cristatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, Juncus effusus, Luzula campestris, L. multiflora, Cardamine pratensis, Lotus pendunculatus, Pedicularis sylvatica} and {\it Sphagnum palustre}, plus occasional {\it Achillea ptarmica, Pinguicula vulgaris and {\it Sphagnum capillifolium}. 

On its northern side, the marshy grassland grades gradually into semi-improved neutral grassland dominated by {\it Holcus lanatus}, with locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Poa} spp. The level ground opposite Crina Bottom Farm is improved grassland.

On its southern side, the marshy grassland grades into rank acid grassland (along the River Wenning) dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} and 
{\it Nardus stricta}, with frequent {\it Juncus squarrosus, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. There are scattered shallow depressions and trenches in this area which are occupied by {\it Deschampsia cespitosa}. An internal fence divides this area from the rest of the section. 

Calcareous grassland has developed on the steep slope above the western boundary; it is a mixed sward of {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Briza 
media, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with frequent {\it Carex panicea, C. viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. echinata, C. nigra, C. pulicaris, Linum catharticum, Lotus corniculatus, Pedicularis sylvatica, Polygala vulgaris} and {\it Sanguisorba minor}, plus occasional {\it Calluna vulgaris, Pinguicula vulgaris, Salix} sp. and {\it Sphagnum palustre}.  

Along the River Wenning, which divides the section described above from the rest of the common, there are occasional stands of {\it Juncus effusus, J. inflexus, Phalaris arundinacea} and {\it Sparganium erectum} with occasional {\it Glyceria fluitans, Myosotis scorpioides} and {\it Solanum dulcamara}. There are overhanging {\it Alnus glutinosa} trees on both banks.  

The section between the River Wenning and the railway (SD 737 674) contains {\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated marshy grassland with frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Ranunculus acris}, and scattered {\it Ulex europaeus}. It is not as species-rich as the marshy grassland in the northernmost section. 

The remainder of the common is situated along minor public roads to the south of the railway. It is a mosaic of marshy grassland and unimproved acid grassland, with localized scattered {\it Ulex europaeus} scrub. The marshy grassland is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} or {\it Juncus effueus}, with locally abundant {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and locally frequent {\it Cardamine pratensis, Carex nigra, C. ovalis, C. panicea, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Juncus inflexus}. This grades into the areas of acid grassland which are dominated by {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Nardus stricta}, with locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium saxatile, Juncus squarrosus, Potentilla erecta} and {\it Rumex acetosella}.

The Phase 1 survey shows a narrow strip of broadleaved woodland along the side of Jack Beck Gill. This has a canopy comprising {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and {\it Alnus glutinosa}.


FAUNA:
No information located relating to the fauna of this particular common.

VEG:
The common forms one element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of this particular common), is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. In addition, this particular section of the Whernside SSSI forms part of a suite of sites that make up the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI is particularly noted for some of the most extensive unbroken, horizontal limestone pavement in Britain which occurs at Scales Moor (see below). In addition, the markedly stepped form of Twistleton Scars illustates the varied resistance of individual limetone layers to glacial erosion (not common land).

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated. In addition, there is also much information held by English Nature relating to the limestone pavements of Scales Moor.

The common is situated at the south-western end of the Whernside ridge, where this runs out in the south-west onto the relatively level area of Scales Moor, which corresponds with the upper surface of the Great Scar limestone. The limestone cliffs along Twistleton Scar and the pavement on Scales Moor are of considerable botanical interest, supporting several uncommon or rare species which include the nationally rare {\it Alchemilla minima}, the nationally scarce {\it Actaea spicata, Minuatria verna} and {\it Polygonatum odoratum}, in addition to {\it Mycelis muralis} and {\it Thalictrum minus}. Many species of fern occur including {\it Asplenium viride} and {\it Cystopteris fragilis} plus the nationally scarce {\it Dryopteris submontana} and {\it Gymnocarpium robertianum}.

These pavements have been the subject of detailed study in the course of notifying this area of limestone pavement. A wide range of other species have also been recorded from these extensive pavements and include: {\it Sesleria caerulea} (nationally scarce), {\it Mercurialis perennis, Polystichum aculeatum, Crepis paludosa, Asplenium ruta-muraria, Stachys sylvatica, Carex pulicaris, Circaea lutetiana, Listera ovata, Linum catharticum, Melica nutans, Anemone nemorosa, Viola riviniana, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Carex sylvatica, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Crataegus monogyna, Corylus avellana, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Allium ursinum}. 

Surrounding the exposed limestone is an intricate mosaic of acidic, neutral and calcicolous grassland with {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis-Festuca, Festuca ovina} and {\it Carex flacca} each locally dominant over small areas.

To the north of the pavements, but still on the shelf, there are more extensive areas of {\it N. stricta} acidic grassland, extending up onto the eastern flank of West Fell End, which marks the southernmost point on the summit ridge. Elsewhere on the shelf of Scales Moor, particularly at the north-eastern end, and also on the crest of West Fell, {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire occurs.


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

VEG:
The common forms part of a fringe of common land running along the northern margin of the Bowland Fells. Due to time constraints, it was not possible to visit this particular common during the course of the present survey (see 'Sources').

The most extensive habitat is blanket mire, which lies on gentle slopes across much of the common. This is shown to be dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. Notes made for similar vegetation on the contiguous CL 209 (PD) suggest that this belongs to the Phase 1 category of 'E18' dry modified bog. This is further supported by the indication of some areas of bare peat/haggs.

To the extreme south of the common, there is shown to be a heathy element to the vegetation, with areas of dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In addition, blanket mire also supports these species in addition to {\it Erica tetralix}. A large valley mire in the south-western corner of the common also supports {\it Calluna} and {\it Erica tetralix}, with {\it Sphagnum} spp. mosses and occasional {\it Andromeda polifolia}. 

Slopes immediately to the north support acidic grassland dominated by {\it Juncus squarrosus}, with localised heath vegetation - {\it Calluna} and {\it V. myrtillus} (i.e. grass/heath mosaic). Further acidic grassland to the north of the common (J. squarrosus/Nardus stricta), plus areas of marshy grassland dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}.


VEG:
The common forms a minor peripheral element of the Oxenber and Wharfe Woods SSSI, which lies just to the east of Austwick. As well as woods, the SSSI supports areas of limestone pavement, acidic and calcicolous grassland and flush communities.

This SSSI in turn forms one small element of the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

This particular common supports an area of calcicolous grassland, possibly with some outcropping limestone. Generally within the SSSI as a whole, this type of vegetation is species-rich and dominated by the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}. Other associates include {\it Helianthemum nummularium, Thymus drucei, Pilosella officinarum, Carex caryophyllea, Campanula rotundifolia, Fragaria vesca, Helictotrichon pratense, Carlina vulgaris, Festuca rubra, Ranunculus bulbosus, Poterium sanguisorba, Bellis perennis, Alchemilla} sp. and {\it Conopodium majus}.

MANAGE:
Please refer to the management sections of the two contiguous commons for a discussion of the management activity within this particular SSSI.


FAUNA:
No information relating specifically to the fauna of this particular common.

VEG:
The common lies on the southern fringe of the Ingleborough massif and partially overlaps with the SSSI of the same name. The SSSI also forms a part of a suite of sites known as the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

Habitat information has been taken from a Phase 1 survey of the Ingleborough SSSI (see references). For a more detailed description of this ecologically important locality, please refer to the site description for the contiguous CL 208.

To the south of the common lies an area of acidic, marshy grassland co-dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Molinia caerulea}.

To the north of the track, the common lies on the fringe of the "Clapdale Scars" series of Carboniferous limestone outcrops, which includes areas of calcicolous grassland dominated by the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}.

MANAGE:
The area as a whole is grazed by sheep. There is no specific information relevant to this particular site.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: blackbird, curlew, lapwing, songthrush.

VEG:
The common comprises three small parcels of land at the edges of the larger CL 209, which runs along Keasden Road. Only the two largest sections were surveyed (PD).

(1) - SD 730 665. Short, heavily-grazed acid grassland ({\it Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris}) on each side of a minor public road. There is also 
scattered {\it Ulex europaeus, Rubus fruticosus} agg. and {\it Urtica dioica}, and a small area of marshy grassland at the eastern end is dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea} with frequent {\it Dactylis glomerata, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Juncus effusus}.  

(2) - The easternmost section has a similar species composition south of 
the railway (Lawsings Brow, SD 738 669); the small area north of the 
railway (SD 769 671) is grazed {\it Molinia caerulea}-dominated marshy 
grassland with frequent {\it Juncus conglomeratus, Juncus effusus} and 
{\it Deschampsia cespitosa}.

(3) - SD 727 647. Not surveyed (? semi-improved grassland).

MANAGE:
All areas show evidence of frequent livestock grazing, except Lawsings Brow, where the rank condition of the grass suggests lighter grazing pressure.


VEG:
The common forms one element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of CL 272), is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. 

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated.

This particular common occupies the slope between the eastern flank of Whernside and Little Dale Beck, which runs beside the Settle-Carlisle railway. The high ground at the western side of the common includes outcropping limestone of the Greensett Crags. These are less than 10.0m in height and are rather broken. An interesting montane limestone flora includes the nationally rare {\it Alchemilla glaucescens}, the nationally scarce {\it Minuatria verna}, in addition to {\it Cystopteris fragilis, Alchemilla filicaulis, Saxifraga hypnoides, Arabis hirsuta} and {\it Asplenium viride}.

Below the scars there is acidic grassland flushed by base-rich water containing {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Potentilla erecta, Carex panicea} and {\it C. hostiana}. There are also areas of what appear to be acidic/neutral flushing with {\it Juncus effusus, J. conglomeratus} and {\it Molinia caerulea}.

Below this is a fairly gentle slope upon which blanket mire has developed. This vegetation is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}. The peat depth is reported to be around 1.5m. There are local acidic/neutral flushes along seepage-lines, dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}.

Below about 460m, the slope steepens and the blanket mire gives way to acidic grassland dominated in the upper part by {\it Nardus stricta}, with {\it Juncus squarrosus} often co-dominant. The lower slopes see a tendency to dominance by {\it Molinia caerulea} with {\it J. squarrosus} and {\it Polytrichum commune} (Phase 1 'B5' - marshy grassland), where there are also frequent flushes dominated by {\it J. effusus}.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. Reported heavy grazing intensity.


VEG:
The common forms one element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of CL 272), is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. 

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI is particularly noted for some of the most extensive unbroken, horizontal limestone pavement in Britain which occurs at Scales Moor (CL 272). In addition, the markedly stepped form of Twistleton Scars illustates the varied resistance of individual limetone layers to glacial erosion.

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated.

The common lies on a hillside to the eastern side of the summit ridge. To the north the common is situated within a band of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}. The peat depth is reported to be around 1.5m. There are local acidic/neutral flushes along seepage-lines, dominated by {\it Juncus effusus}.

Below this, where the slope is slightly steeper, the blanket mire gives way to acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta}, with {\it Juncus squarrosus} often co-dominant. There are also scattered acidic/neutral flushes dominated by {\it J. effusus}.

MANAGE:
No information relating to the management of this particular common, although the area in general is grazed by sheep. Please refer to site descriptions for the surrounding commons in the block.


VEG:
The common forms a minor element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of CL 272), is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. Note than land to the south of the minor road lies outside the SSSI boundary. In addition, this particular section of the Whernside SSSI forms part of a suite of sites that make up the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI is particularly noted for some of the most extensive unbroken, horizontal limestone pavement in Britain which occurs at Scales Moor (CL 272). In addition, the markedly stepped form of Twistleton Scars illustates the varied resistance of individual limetone layers to glacial erosion.

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated.

The lower part of this common comprises areas of improved and acidic grassland, with some dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. To the west is an area of scree which supports calcicolous grassland which contains the nationally scarce {\it Sesleria caerulea}, plus {\it Alchemilla filicaulis, Pilosella officinarum, Galium sterneri, Poterium sanguisorba} and {\it Carlina vulgaris}. There is also a limestone cliff marking the northern margin of this common which supports {\it Cystopteris montana, Mycelis muralis, Pimpinella saxifraga} and {\it Teucrium scorodonia} as well as bushes of {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Prunus spinosa}.

The upper part of the common is wooded with a canopy dominated by {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

For a more detailed account of the vegetation of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to the site descriptions for the larger adjacent commons forming the block.


FAUNA:
Noted during the site visits were: curlew, lapwing, skylark, meadow pipit, willow warbler, snipe.

VEG:
The common forms one element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of CL 272), is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. In fact, only around half of this particular common is actually situated within the SSSI boundary, this lying to the north and west of the course of Blea Moor Tunnel on the Settle-Carlisle Railway line (see SSSI map).

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated.

The varied topography and geology are accompanied by a range of equally varied plant communities. Above 400m, blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} is widespread, with extensive areas of such habitat occurring on this particular common. In places the blanket mire is described as deeply hagged with peaty pools dominated variously by {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex echinata} and {\it Sphagnum} spp., with abundant {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} in drier areas in between.

The Phase 1 habitat classification provides two different categories within which this could be placed. Based on the above description, this vegetation has been placed in the Phase 1 category of 'E18' - dry modified bog. However, there are difficulties in making a choice between this and 'E161' - blanket/{\it Sphagnum} bog, this latter habitat generally being consistent with undegraded blanket mire, having a {\it Sphagnum} cover of more than 25 per cent and the presence of typical ombrotrophic mire species such as {\it Sphagnum papillosum} and {\it S. capillifolium}. Once again, re-evaluation of the site would enable a more accurate translation. It is interesting to mention in this regard that an area of blanket mire noted on the adjoining Cumbrian common - CL 501, was mapped as the 'E161' category on the basis of an evaluation of blanket mire at Great Wold (GR SD 751 843). 

The steep upper slopes around the summit of Whernside itself have solifluction teracettes and small outcrops of sandstone and shale with areas of scree. These sandstone cliffs support {\it Silene maritima} and {\it Cryptogramma crispa}. There is further outcropping sandstone on the summit plateau of Blea Moor, to the east.

These and other slopes across the common support acidic grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} with {\it Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Galium saxatile}. An acidic/neutral grassland type of more restricted occurrence has been placed in the "semi-improved" category and is dominated by {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina}, with {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. 

There are also areas of {\it Juncus effusus/Sphagnum recurvum} flush at the base of the slope along the eastern flank of Whernside, at the base of Force Gill Ridge, with further features elsewhere on the common, for example, extensive diffuse flushing in the valley of Little Dale.

Greensett Tarn to the northern end of the summit ridge has extensive beds of {\it Carex rostrata} (to the south), while to the north {\it Carex echinata} is dominant. 

The common includes a small area of limestone pavement at Greensett, east of the Whernside summit ridge. This includes areas of species-rich {\it Agrostis-Festuca} grassland in a mosaic with species-poor {\it N. stricta/Potentilla erecta} acidic grassland. The limestone outcrops to the north of the pavement proper contain {\it Arabis hirsuta, Draba incana} and {\it Saxifraga hypnoides}.  

The portion of the common outside the SSSI does not appear to have been covered by any pre-existing surveys. The vegatation map for this part has been based upon an interpretation of aerial photographs held by the Yorkshire Dales National Park in conjuction with brief site visits by both PD and KC, plus extrapolation of adjoining habitats within the SSSI.

MANAGE:
The common is grazed by sheep. There is a boundary fence along the eastern edge of the common, against the adjoining fell which is not now a registered common. There has been renovation/resurfacing of the public footpath/bridleway that follows alongside the route of the Settle-Carlisle railway line north into Dentdale.

Parts of the Whernside SSSI are listed within the Geological Conservation review under the names "Scales Moor" and "Kingsdale". The Kingsdale caves are more completely mapped than any other cave-system in Britain and include the most extensively flooded system in Europe. Preliminary study and dating of the deposits in the high-level abandoned caves indicate an exceptional age for the cave-system and offer potential for further study.


VEG:
The common forms one element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of CL 272), is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. 

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI is particularly noted for some of the most extensive unbroken, horizontal limestone pavement in Britain which occurs at Scales Moor (CL 272). In addition, the markedly stepped form of Twistleton Scars illustates the varied resistance of individual limetone layers to glacial erosion (not common land).

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated.

The common is situated on a steep hillside that flanks the eastern edge of the Whernside summit ridge. Most comprises acidic grassland of {\it Nardus stricta} with frequent {\it Juncus squarrosus}. Along the ridge crest there is an area of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, with some peaty pools present. {\it Juncus squarrosus} becomes abundant where this vegetation grades into the adjacent acidic grassland. Combe Scar (GR SD 731 794) is an unstable sandstone cliff with {\it Cryptogramma crispa, Silene maritima} and {\it Solidago virgaurea} abundant on its ledges.


VEG:
The common forms a tiny element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of CL 272, is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. 

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated.

This particular common is shown to comprise an area of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, this being the most prominent community to be found above around 400m within the SSSI.

For a fuller account of the vegetation of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to the site descriptions for the larger adjacent commons.


FAUNA:
No information located relating specifically to the fauna of this particular common.

VEG:
The common forms a minor element of a block of common land associated with Whernside, the greater portion of which lies within the Whernside SSSI. Although not described in "A Nature Conservation Review" (ed. D.A. Ratcliffe, 1977), Scales Moor (which incorporates part of CL 272), is now recognised as an extension to the internationally important Ingleborough site. Most of the common lies within the SSSI. In addition, this particular section of the Whernside SSSI forms part of a suite of sites that make up the "Ingleborough Complex" proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC), to be designated under the EC Habitats Directive.

The SSSI has been notified due to the presence of important upland vegetation communities and also for a variety of physiographic features, including limestone pavements and cave systems. While the site shows some similarity with Ingleborough in supporting important examples of blanket mire, dwarf shrub heath, sub-montane acidic grassland, inland cliff and limestone pavement vegetation, it differs in being a ridge rather than a plateau landform. Whernside also qualifies for notification on the grounds of its outstanding assemblage of plant species, some of them rare.

The SSSI was the subject of a vegetation survey carried-out by Peter Kelly and Neil Willcox during 1981. It is recognised that this source is now out of date. However, due to severe time constraints on the current project, it has been necessary to use this as a primary source of information. There may not have in fact been a significant change in the distribution of habitats, but ideally, the area should be re-evaluated.

The northern part of the common lies on a broad terrace between two limestone scars and has what appears to be a semi-improved acidic sward of {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca ovina} with {\it Potentilla erecta}. There is also a small area of limestone pavement above the lower scar. 

The limestone cliffs along Twistleton Scars and the pavement on Scales Moor in general are of considerable botanical interest, supporting several uncommon or rare species which include the nationally rare {\it Alchemilla minima}, the nationally scarce {\it Actaea spicata, Minuatria verna} and {\it Polygonatum odoratum}, in addition to {\it Mycelis muralis} and {\it Thalictrum minus}. Many species of fern occur including {\it Asplenium viride} and {\it Cystopteris fragilis} plus the nationally scarce {\it Dryopteris submontana} and {\it Gymnocarpium robertianum}.

The southern part of the common is partly wooded with a canopy of {\it Fraxinus excelsior} and the remainder supports a mosaic of acidic grassland and dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

There is also another limestone scar running approximately along the southern boundary of the common.

For a more detailed account of the vegetation of the SSSI as a whole, please refer to the site descriptions for the other larger commons in the block.


FAUNA:
No fauna recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Cam Fell lies on a spur of land dropping away to Gayle Beck to the west and bordering a conifer plantation to the east.

The habitat map has been prepared from the 1986 Phase 1 survey of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, which also provides extensive relevant target notes. There are also some notes from a visit to the site by PD during the present survey (see below).

The common supports extensive areas of blanket mire. The definitions used for this habitat during the YDNP Phase 1 survey differ somewhat from the now standard NCC Phase 1 method of 1990 and this has made translation difficult. Although the YDNP uses the terms "wet bog" and "dry bog", these are not synonymous with the "wet" (i.e. 'E17') and "dry modified bog" (i.e. 'E18') categories of the standard NCC method as adopted within the Common Land Survey. The latter represent degraded blanket mire types, generally with a low cover of {\it Sphagnum} mosses, as distinguished from intact vegetation (i.e. 'E161') which has abundant {\it Sphagnum}.

Available target notes suggest that the majority of the blanket mire on the common has abunant {\it Sphagnum} and it has therefore mainly been translated to Phase 1 'E161'. Locally, however, the mire is shown to be transitional with acidic grassland habitat, and such areas have been placed in the 'E18' dry modified bog category. Some of the blanket mire also appears flushed (mainly acidic/neutral, but locally also base-rich).

Most of the blanket mire is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}. A diverse range of other species includes {\it Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Trichophorum cespitosum, Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. Species noted only rarely include {\it Drosera rotundifolia} and {\it Andromeda polifolia}.

Species associated with various flushes include {\it Juncus effusus, Narthecium ossifragum, Carex curta, C. echinata, C. panicea, C. rostrata, C. viridula} subsp. {\it oedocarpa, C. acutiformis, C. nigra, Sphagnum} spp. mosses, {\it Polytrichum commune, Ranunculus flammula, Vaccinium oxycoccos} and {\it Hydrocotyle vulgaris}. Associated with more base-rich examples are {\it Pedicularis sylvatica, Succisa pratensis, Valeriana dioica} and {\it Prunella vulgaris}.

Of partcular note is the recorded presence of {\it Blysmus compressus} from a neutral flush at GR SD 789 809.

Acidic grassland on the common is shown to be dominated by either {\it Nardus stricta} or {\it Juncus squarrosus}.

Site notes by PD........

The area to the south of the Pennine Way looks like a large 'drumlin field'? with peat ({\it Eriophorum vaginatum}?) on top and streams and flushes in between. There are areas of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} in larger gaps. There is {\it Juncus squarrosus/Nardus stricta/Galium saxatile} acid grassland on the slope leading down to this area with {\it Thymus} sp., {\it Linum catharticum, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Viola} sp. and {\it Achillea millefolium}. 

Above the Pennine Way there is {\it Nardus stricta/Juncus squarrosus/Deschampsia flexuosa} grassland giving way to {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} dominated dry bog with locally frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} and some {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. There is a {\it Juncus effusus} flush on the slope here with Sphagna, {\it Polytrichum commune} and {\it Carex echinata}. Also recorded: occasional {\it Carex ovalis}.

MANAGE:
No management observations were made during the site visit.


VEG:
The common was not visited for the purposes of this survey. According to the Phase 1 survey (06.07.87), the common supports mixed plantation. The target note for Birkshaw Quarry (SE 064 608) to the west of the common states 'mainly semi-improved acid grassland but around acid rock. Some {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} present. {\it Melampyrum pratense} frequent on slope'.


FAUNA:
Snipe were recorded during the site visit. There is no other available information on the fauna of the common.

VEG:
The lower slopes of Reeth Low Moor along the road support {\it Nardus stricta/Juncus squarrosus/Galium saxatile} acid grassland giving way to a dry heath/acid grassland mosaic with the additional species {\it Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Potentilla erecta, Vaccinium myrtillus, Deschampsia flexuosa}, occasional {\it Veronica serpyllifolia}, scattered {\it Sphagnum capillifolium} and {\it Juncus} clumps, {\it Polytrichum commune} and {\it Carex panicea} occurred in the wetter areas. {\it Asplenium adiantum-nigrum} and {\it Cryptogramma crispa} were recorded on limestone crags around Calver Hill. 

Most of the summit of Calver Hill supports dry heath ({\it Calluna vulgaris} with locally frequent {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}). There is good cover of {\it Calluna} (mostly 25-30cm) high but in mounds with very short grass (with {\it Potentilla sterilis, Carex} sp., {\it Viola} sp. and abundant {\it Galium saxatile}) in scattered patches. There is some 'carpet' {\it Calluna} (heavily grazed) with very short (less than 3cm) {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. {\it Thymus} sp. was also recorded on the summit. On the rest of the common {\it Calluna} is of various ages.

The following information and the accompanying habitat map are based on the Phase 2 Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor report (1992) which used the National Vegetation Classification.

Reeth High Moor is bordered to the south-west by Mill Gill or Old Gang Beck and to the north-east by Bleaberry Gill. Reeth Low Moor borders onto Swaledale to the south and Arkengarthdale to the north. The gill sides are characteristically steep and support heath communities. The area (together with CL42 and Whar Moor - CL43 pt) was formerly mined and there are numerous derelict mine workings and spoil heaps.

The vegetation of the high ground in the north is predominantly the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community of {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (NVC type M19b). The remainder of the area is a complex of heath and grassland communities.

The heathland areas comprise both {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} (H9) and {\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} (H12) heaths. Heath is frequently interspersed with acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) and {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} (U6). Where the soils are well-drained, particularly around Mill Gill, there are several patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum - Galium saxatile} (U20), many of which have been sprayed with herbicide.

Where limestone lies close to the surface or around outcrops, species-rich grasslands occur. The most widespread of these is {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} grassland (U4) although there are also a number of patches of {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} (CG10). 

There are many unvegetated spoil heaps throughout the area and, where they have been undisturbed for some time, a good growth of lichens has developed.

MANAGE:
The heather on Reeth Low Moor is subject to burning in strips and patches. 

The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines:

The area (together with CL42 and Whar Moor - CL43 pt) is used for both grouse shooting and sheep grazing. The heaths and blanket mires are regularly burned when the heather reaches between 30cm and 45cm tall. The area does not appear to have been extensively gripped. Sheep graze across all parts of the moor but tend to concentrate around the gill edges and the boundaries of the enclosed land. Suppressed heather is widespread, especially on the southern half of the site (CL42). To the north on the higher ground, sheep are less frequent and lightly grazed heather is common. 

There is abundant evidence of former mining activity. There are several derelict smelting mills and a large number of shafts.


FAUNA:
Curlew and red grouse were recorded during the site visit. Golden plover were common at the time of the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines. The SSSI citation (covering CLs 17, 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 147, 157, 158 and 230) states that the moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their populations of merlin, golden plover, short-eared owl, peregrine and hen harrier.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
Askrigg Common supports {\it Calluna vulgaris} - dominated vegetation with locally abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Erica tetralix} and {\it Sphagnum capillifolium}. {\it Carex echinata} was occasional along the footpath. Looking west from SD 9693, the rest of the common looks similar - dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. East of the disused shooting lodge (CL91?) there is a mix of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with frequent {\it Sphagnum} sp. ({\it S. capillifolium} and {\it S. papillosum}) and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum} is occasional in small pools. {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} is abundant. There are extensive areas of bare peat below 'The Fleak'. 

The small detached section at SD 953 921 supports mixed woodland of {\it Fagus sylvatica, Acer pseudoplatanus} and {\it Larix} sp. and poor semi-improved grassland with a small amount of semi-improved acid grassland in the valley bottom. 

The common was included in the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Abbotside Common-Askrigg Common-East Bolton-Redmire Moor report, 1993), based on the NVC and described as follows......

"This is an area of moorland plateau and escarpments to the south of the watershed largely dominated by deep peat supporting blanket mire. The ground reaches a maximum altitude of 551m near Summer Lodge Tarn. 

Along the southern margins of the site adjoining the enclosed land, there are a series of steep limestone slopes. There are many shake holes scattered right across the area.

There is some evidence of lead mining in the past in the form of disused mine shafts and quarries...

The area is almost entirely dominated by the {\it Erica tetralix} sub-community of the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire. {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} are dominant with frequent {\it Erica tetralix, Sphagnum papillosum} and {\it S. capillifolium} while {\it Empetrum nigrum} is rare. There are a number of small bog pool communities including {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (M2b) and {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} (M3). On Whitfield Fell, surrounding a small pool, there is a small stand of {\it Carex rostrata} mire (M4) with {\it S. recurvum} and {\it S. cuspidatum}. Pockets of {\it Calluna}-rich {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M20b) also occur throughout the site. In places {\it Calluna} becomes very scarce leading to the development of the species-poor sub-community (M20a). These areas are associated with high levels of sheep grazing.

{\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capllaris-Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} calcareous grassland (CG10) is associated with outcrops of limestone on the southern margins and in the numerous shake holes. These areas are favoured by sheep and are very tightly grazed. In the east above Ellerkin Scar this grassland is mixed with {\it Agrostis capillaris-Luzula multiflora} sub-community of {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} grassland (U6d). 

The drier soils on the flanks of Turner Beck allow {\it Nardus stricta} to become dominant forming the {\it Agrostis canina-Polytrichum commune} sub-community of {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} grassland (U5b). To the south {\it Nardus} grassland largely replaces the blanket mire community as a result of damage caused by high grazing levels.

There is limited development of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H9) on the drier slopes where mineral soils have developed. Both the {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} (H9a) and the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus-Cladonia} spp. (H9b) sub-communities are represented. 

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their blanket bog and heather moorland vegetation communities.

The upland block between Lovely Seat and Stainton Moor on the watershed between Wensleydale and Swaledale is an outstanding example of North Pennines moorland, having the most extensive and complete west to east transition from blanket bog to dry heathland. 

On the flat plateau (c. 500 m) between Abbotside Common CL17 and Greets Moss (which includes CLs 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 157, 158, 230), towards the western end of the SSSI, {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is the dominant community with the heather reaching 40 cm in height in places. On slightly drier, gently sloping ground where the heather canopy is more open {\it Empetrum nigrum} occurs, along with areas of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In the more heavily-grazed areas below the main plateau {\it E. vaginatum} increases, bryophytes decrease and the vegetation is generally more species-poor. Dotted across the blanket bog are pools dominated by {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum}, with {\it S. recurvum} and {\it E. angustifolium} around the margins. Where peat erosion has exposed the underlying sandstone the vegetation has become {\it C. vulgaris} dominated, the more wet-loving species becoming rare or absent.

Within the blanket bog on the western part of the SSSI, three small raised mires have been identified which between them support {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Listera cordata}. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs locally in the central and western parts of the site.

On the slopes, and particularly on the eastern portion of the site (not coincident with common land), the vegetation is predominantly heathland. 

Locally {\it Vaccinium} becomes dominant over {\it Calluna} as at Summer Lodge Tarn (CL32) where {\it Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina} and {\it D. flexuosa} also characterise the heath community.

MANAGE:
Heather condition varied across the common at the time of the site visit, with patches burnt. Some drainage ditches running north-south had been put in about 25-30m apart (0.5m x 0.5m). The extensive areas of bare peat below 'The Fleak' were being eroded by wind. The surface was charred in places and thought probably to be the result of too hot a burn.

The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines report:

The area "belongs" to the commoners of Askrigg (Parish Council ownership) and is used for sheep grazing and also grouse shooting. There are a number of grouse butts across the site and a shooting house near Askrigg Greets. The heather is burned regularly in small patches and reaches a height of approximately 30cm. Grazing is heaviest along the roadsides and here heather loss has occurred leading to the development of {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} grassland (U5). Heather condition is generally good except for areas adjacent to the roads, near the enclosures and around shake holes where 'topiary' bushes are frequent as a result of high grazing pressures.


FAUNA:
No information, but see the entry for the adjoining common (CL33) to the east.

VEG:
The common forms part of a block of common land lying on hills to the east of Aysgarth. 

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Phase 1 survey shows this common to comprise an area of blanket mire dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Under the definitions used by this particular survey, the habitat was placed in the "wet bog" category, which typically also has abundant {\it Sphagnum} cover. This appears to equate to the category of 'E161' - blanket/{\it Sphagnum} bog, as used in the standard Phase 1 methodology (NCC, 1990). 

(Conversley, the YDNP "dry bog" category equates to Phase 1 'E18' - dry modified bog, as it is described as often occurring on the top of peat haggs where the peat is well-drained).

MANAGE:
Probably managed for sheep grazing and grouse shooting. There is a line of grouse butts marked on the OS map of the common.


FAUNA:
Meadow pipit and red grouse were recorded during the site visit. About 50 gulls appeared to be breeding on the common in the vicinity of Whitaside Tarn. The SSSI citation (covering CLs 17, 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 147, 157, 158 and 230) states that the moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their populations of merlin, golden plover, short-eared owl, peregrine and hen harrier.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
Whitaside Moor is covered by {\it Calluna vulgaris}-dominated heathland with patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} and occasional {\it Juncus effusus} flushes on the slopes. Other species recorded include locally abundant {\it Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Nardus stricta}. 

The following were noted from the walk up to Whitaside Tarn:

Above the first slope ({\it Calluna} mature dry heath, 95-100 percent cover), there is a fairly level area (dips down slightly to the next slope). There is a {\it Calluna/Eriophorum vaginatum/Sphagnum} sp. bog. About 1/3 of the bog had received a light burn which had not killed all of the {\it Sphagnum} supporting regenerating {\it Eriophorum vaginatum/Vaccinium myrtillus/Rubus idaeus?}. {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos, Empetrum nigrum, Drosera rotundifolia} and the bryophytes {\it Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and {\it Aulocomnium palustre} are locally frequent and {\it Erica tetralix} locally abundant (in the wetter areas in the middle). In the middle there is also a small pool about 25 x 15 cm? with abundant {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum}. {\it Sphagnum} spp. recorded were {\it S. capillifolium} and {\it S. papillosum}. The muddy edges of the Tarn support occasional clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}. {\it Rumex acetosella} and {\it Galium saxatile} were recorded amongst the dry heath and along the sheep tracks. 

Whitaside Moor was included in the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Abbotside Common-Askrigg Common-East Bolton-Redmire Moor, 1993). This common, together with Harkerside Moor, was described as follows. 

Like Muker Common to the west (CL29) these moors lie on the north-facing slope above Swaledale. From the enclosure edge at about 330m the ground rises steeply at first before levelling out on the moorland plateau. The highest ground reaches 555m on High Carl on the watershed which forms the southern boundary.

The area is again notable for the extensive disused mine workings. There are a large number of disused flues and shafts. 

The moorland plateau is dominated by the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community (M19b) of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire. Within this area of blanket peat there are patches of {\it Calluna}-rich {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M20b). To the east (Harkerside Moor) the vegetation forms a complex mosaic of heath and grassland. This mosaic also extends along the northern periphery adjacent to the enclosures. The heath is an intricate mixture of both species-poor (H9c) and bryophyte-rich sub-communities (H9a) of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath and also the {\it Calluna} sub-community (H12a) of {\it Calluna-Vaccinium myrtillus} heath. 

Interspersed and often mixed with this heath there is much acidic grassland. Four principal communities are represented. {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} are the most widespread dominants as constituents of both {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Rumex acetosella} (U1) and {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} (U4) grasslands.

Where the ground is influenced by limestone, the vegetation is somewhat richer and there are patches of {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} calcareous grassland (CG10). The three above grassland types are often intricately mixed by changes in floristic composition occurring over very short distances. Other acid grasslands forming part of the mosaic are either {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} (U6) or {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} (U5). On the drier soils, particularly around the margins of the site, there are patches of bracken which in places form {\it Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile} community (U20).

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their blanket bog and heather moorland vegetation communities.

The upland block between Lovely Seat and Stainton Moor on the watershed between Wensleydale and Swaledale is an outstanding example of North Pennines moorland, having the most extensive and complete west to east transition from blanket bog to dry heathland. 

On the flat plateau (c. 500 m) between Abbotside Common (CL17) and Greets Moss (including CLs 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 157, 158, 230), towards the western end of the SSSI, {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is the dominant community with the heather reaching 40 cm in height in places. On slightly drier, gently sloping ground where the heather canopy is more open {\it Empetrum nigrum} occurs, along with areas of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In the more heavily-grazed areas below the main plateau {\it E. vaginatum} increases, bryophytes decrease and the vegetation is generally more species-poor. Dotted across the blanket bog are pools dominated by {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum}, with {\it S. recurvum} and {\it E. angustifolium} around the margins. Where peat erosion has exposed the underlying sandstone the vegetation has become {\it Calluna}-dominated, the more wet-loving species becoming rare or absent.

Within the blanket bog on the western part of the SSSI, three small raised mires have been identified which between them support {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Listera cordata}. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs locally in the central and western parts of the site.

On the slopes, and particularly on the eastern portion of the site (not coincident with common land), the vegetation is predominantly heathland. 

On the rockier, freely drained slopes of Grinton (CL147), Harkerside (part CL147) and Whitaside Moors (CL97), {\it V. myrtillus} increases in abundance and the {\it Calluna-Vaccinium} community appears in a mosaic with the {\it Calluna-Deschampsia} type. {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} also occur and locally {\it Vaccinium} becomes dominant over {\it Calluna} as at Summer Lodge Tarn (CL32) where {\it Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina} and {\it D. flexuosa} also characterise the heath community.  Adding to the mosaic on the edge of the heath/bog interface are areas of {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} grassland and {\it Nardus stricta} dominated swards occur on the lower and more heavily grazed areas.

MANAGE:
Some areas of the common were noted to have been burnt at the time of the site visit. 

The following information regarding the management of the common is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines:

The area is used for a combination of grouse shooting and sheep grazing. The heather grows to a height of between 30 and 45cm and is regularly burned in both large and small patches. Sheep graze throughout the moor but have a preference for the steeper slopes where the vegetation is generally grassier. 

The vegetation condition was described as follows:

Lightly grazed heather is found only on the highest ground above approximately 500m on the moorland plateau. Slopes below the plateau, especially adjoining the enclosures, are more heavily grazed and suppressed heather is common on the fringes of the heath.


FAUNA:
No information, but see under the entry for CL72 with which the southern part of the common is continuous.

VEG:
This common comprises two sections situated on opposite sides of Widdale, some 4.5km apart as the crow flies. The southern part forms an additional part of CL72 supporting dry modified bog dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, less than 10 per cent cover of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and scattered patches of {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} (1-2m wide). Some extensive areas of hagging were noted in this area. The shake holes support {\it Asplenium viride, Cryptogramma crispa, Geranium robertianum, Oxalis} sp. and {\it Plagiomnium undulatum} where limestone is exposed. 

The northern section has some information available from the Yorkshire Dales National Park Phase 1 survey of 1986. This portion has no physical boundaries separating it from the surrounding allotments. Most of the area comprises an acidic grassland sward dominated by a combination of {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}.

Across the centre of the site runs a limestone cliff with associated calcicolous grassland. This vegetation includes {\it Scabiosa columbaria, Thymus polytrichus, Galium sterneri, Asplenium trichomanes} and {\it Carex caryophyllea}.

MANAGE:
The southern section is probably grazed by sheep along with the adjoining CL72 although there are no rights of pasture on the common.


FAUNA:
A jackdaw was recorded during the site visit. Red grouse are frequent within the {\it Calluna} heath on this section of the Phase 2 upland survey.

VEG:
(1). Field notes from PD........

The lower section (south of the road) supports about 80 percent cover of {\it Calluna vulgaris} interspersed with abundant {\it Carex} sp., frequent {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (locally abundant in main part of the block) and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and locally frequent {\it Molinia caerulea}. 

The area north of the road is similar, but with locally abundant {\it M. caerulea} and {\it C. vulgaris} (cover up to 95 percent and 15-20cm high appearing ungrazed). {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is locally frequent. {\it Juncus effusus} occurs in the shake holes just north of the road. Along the roadside there are areas of very short {\it Agrostis capillaris/Nardus stricta/Thymus} sp./{\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} plus occasional {\it Campanula rotundifolia} and locally frequent {\it Lotus corniculatus}. 

The highest part supports unimproved, tussocky acid grassland ({\it Nardus stricta/Deschampsia flexuosa}) with abundant {\it Galium saxatile}, locally frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} and occasional {\it Trifolium repens}. Near the northern boundary gate there are areas of very short grass with frequent {\it Thymus} sp., {\it Linum catharticum, Veronica chamaedrys, Deschampsia cespitosa, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Achillea millefolium, Galium verum} and {\it Carex} sp., scattered {\it Cirsium arvense} and locally frequent {\it Viola} sp. 

(2). The following information and the habitat map are reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines which used the National Vegetation Classification:

The common forms part of a block within the survey entitled "Barlingham and Holgate Moor" (report No. 8/4). The vegegation description for this particular unit concentrates on the Barlingham Moor Section (i.e. CL 127 in County Durham), although the range of communities present on CL 142 appear broadly similar.

Much of the common supports dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} (NVC type H9). The only other widely-distributed dwarf shrub is {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, which is however, always sparse and inconspicuous. Bryophytes are generally sparse and consist of a little {\it Hypnum cupressiforme, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Campylopus paradoxus}.

On peripheral slopes and on the high ground around the hill of West House, this gives way to acidic grassland communities, sometimes in a mosaic with {\it Calluna} heath. The most extensive grassland type is dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} (NVC type U5). There are also smaller areas of {\it Festuca ovina/Agrostis capillaris} (U4), {\it Juncus squarrosus/F.ovina} (U6) and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} (U2). 

Patches of dense bracken {\it Pteridium aquilinum} are also frequent on steep slopes. Scattered acidic flushes dominated by {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (NVC type M6c), for example along some of the valleys on the NE side of the common.

There are small areas of {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (NVC type M20, equivalent with Phase 1 'E18' - dry modified bog) in hollows. There are also some areas of NVC type M19, which have been translated as Phase 1 'E161' - blanket/{\it Sphagnum} bog.

There are also small areas of calcicolous grassland associated with outcropping limestone. The main communities are {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} grassland (U4) and {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} grassland (U5), together with small areas of species-rich {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Thymus praecox} grassland (CG10).

MANAGE:
The area north of the road appeared ungrazed at the time of the site visit.

The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines:

"Barlingham Moor in general is used for both sheep grazing and the rearing of red grouse for shooting. Although both sheep and grouse are likely to have both been important land-uses for a long time, the balance at present is in favour of sheep". The {\it Calluna}-rich heaths are burnt in patches on a rotational basis as part of the grouse moor management.

No specific management information provided in this source for Holgate Moor.


FAUNA:
No fauna was observed during the site visit. The SSSI citation (covering CLs 17, 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 147, 157, 158 and 230) states that the moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their populations of merlin, golden plover, short-eared owl, peregrine and hen harrier.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
Target notes from site visit by PD......

{\it Calluna vulgaris} dominated dry heath with locally frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and small patches of acid grassland (abundant {\it Juncus squarrosus, Galium saxatile, Nardus stricta, Festuca rubra}, locally frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} and occasional {\it Potentilla erecta}). There are occasional scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}. There are patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} along streams running to Cogden Gill from the west. There is occasional {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} in the {\it J. effusus} flushes (nr. road). There is also a {\it J. squarrosus} flush near the road with frequent {\it Cirsium palustre} and {\it Oxalis} sp. {\it Saxifraga hypnoides} was noted in {\it Festuca rubra} grassland in severely burnt lush {\it Calluna} area. 

The common was included in the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Abbotside Common-Askrigg Common-East Bolton-Redmire Moor) and the area (together with Harkerside and Whitaside Moors to the west) was described as follows:

Like Muker Common to the west (CL29) these moors lie on the north-facing slope above Swaledale. From the enclosure edge at about 330m the ground rises steeply at first before levelling out on the moorland plateau. The highest ground reaches 555m on High Carl (CL97) on the watershed which forms the southern boundary.

The area is again notable for the extensive disused mine workings. There are a large number of disused flues and shafts. 

Grinton Moor lies at the easternmost end of the survey area. The vegetation forms a complex mosaic of heath, grassland, continuous bracken and areas of blanket bog and acid flush. 

The heath is an intricate mixture of both the species-poor (H9c) and bryophyte-rich sub-communities (H9a) of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath and also the {\it Calluna} sub-community (H12a) of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Vaccinium myrtillus} heath. 

Interspersed and often mixed with this heath there is much acidic grassland. Four principal communities are represented. {\it Festuca ovina} and {\it Agrostis capillaris} are the most widespread dominants as constituents of both {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Rumex acetosella} (U1) and {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} (U4) grasslands.

Where the ground is influenced by limestone, the vegetation is somewhat richer and there are patches of {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} calcareous grassland (CG10). The three above grassland types are often intricately mixed by changes in floristic composition occurring over very short distances. Other acid grasslands forming part of the mosaic are either {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} (U6) or {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} (U5). On the drier soils, particularly around the margins of the survey area, there are patches of bracken which in places form {\it Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile} community (U20).

The moorland plateau to the east of the common is dominated by the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community (M19b) of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire. Within this area of blanket peat there are patches of {\it Calluna}-rich {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M20b). The patches of blanket bog on the common are probably similar in composition.

Adjacent to the minor road to Harkerside, there is an extensive stand of {\it Juniperus communis} which belongs to the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus-Deschampsia flexuosa} sub-community (W19a) of {\it Juniperus communis-Oxalis acetosella} woodland; this area is designated as Harkerside Moor SSSI. 

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their blanket bog and heather moorland vegetation communities.

The upland block between Lovely Seat and Stainton Moor on the watershed between Wensleydale and Swaledale is an outstanding example of North Pennines moorland, having the most extensive and complete west to east transition from blanket bog to dry heathland. 

On the slopes, and particularly on the eastern portion of the site, the vegetation is predominantly heathland. The area between Greets Moss (immediately west of CL147) and Stainton Moor is characterised by a {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} community of variable species richness. 

On the rockier, freely drained slopes of Grinton (CL147), Harkerside (part CL147) and Whitaside Moors CL97, {\it V. myrtillus} increases in abundance and the {\it Calluna-Vaccinium} community appears in mosaic with the {\it Calluna-Deschampsia} type. {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} also occur and locally {\it Vaccinium} becomes dominant over {\it Calluna} as at Summer Lodge Tarn (CL32) where {\it Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina} and {\it D. flexuosa} also characterise the heath community.  Adding to the mosaic on the edge of the heath/bog interface are areas of {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} grassland and {\it Nardus stricta} dominated swards occur on the lower and more heavily grazed areas.

MANAGE:
At the time of the survey the common was being actively managed (burning in patches scattered across the common). The total area recently burnt was estimated to be around 15 percent. It was being grazed by sheep, most of which were to the east of the road at the time of the survey.

The following information regarding the management of the common is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines:

The area is used for a combination of grouse shooting and sheep grazing. The heather grows to a height of between 30 and 45cm and is regularly burned in both large and small patches. Sheep graze throughout the moor but have a preference for the steeper slopes where the vegetation is generally grassier. 

The vegetation condition was described as follows:

Lightly grazed heather is found only on the highest ground above approximately 500m on the moorland plateau. Slopes below the plateau, especially adjoining the enclosures, are more heavily grazed and suppressed heather is common on the fringes of the heath.


FAUNA:
Red grouse were noted during the site visit. A pair of peregrines were observed in display flight over this area during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines, 1993.

VEG:
Target notes from present survey (surveyor/date not clear)........

CL151 straddles a valley with gently sloping sides leading down to a wide, flat valley bottom dominated by {\it Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus} and {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and locally frequent {\it Cirsium palustre}. There are distinct flushes of {\it Juncus effusus} on the valley sides. These areas, near the valley bottom, supported {\it Juncus effusus} (dominant), frequent {\it Cirsium palustre, Cynosurus cristatus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex oxalis, Equisetum palustre, Sphagnum palustre, Cardamine pratensis, Rumex acetosa}, locally abundant {\it Carex panicea, C. nigra?, Potentilla erecta}, locally frequent {\it Carex echinata, C. curta?, Nardus stricta, Viola palustris, Hydrocotyle vulgaris}, occasional {\it Ranunculus flammula, Achillea ptarmica, Polygala} sp. Where meanders have developed in the Beck, peat depth is 1m. No further survey was carried out.

The following information and the accompanying habitat map are based on the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor report (1992) which used the National Vegetation Classification.

The area lies on the north side of Upper Swaledale, due south of the county boundary. The ground dips southward from the watershed to a minimum altitude of 350m. 

The vegetation of the western part is mostly dry modified bog (NVC type M20a {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}, species-poor sub-community). {\it Sphagnum} cover is high in places (c. 50 per cent) and this, coupled with an abundance of {\it Erica tetralix}, indicates the presence of patches of {\it Erica tetralix - Sphagnum papillosum} blanket mire (NVC M18 - northern end of common). On West Stonesdale Out Pasture there is a small area of {\it Scirpus cespitosus (Trichophorum cespitosum) - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M17a).

The steeper slopes support a mosaic of M20a with acid grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U5, U6). There are occasional pockets of bracken forming the {\it Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile} community (U20). 

The eastern part is similar, being dominated by M20a but with some M20b and M19 ({\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire). The steeper slopes support acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) with the less steep slopes supporting {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} grassland (U6). 

{\it Juncus effusus} flushes (M6c) occur throughout the area with occasional {\it Sphagnum} lawns (M6b) at their heads.

MANAGE:
The western part of the common (together with CL149 and Round Hill/Ravenseat Moor to the west) forms part of the Gunnerside Estate Grouse Shoot. The heather is burned in small and, occasionally, large patches, although it only reaches an average height of between 15 and 30cm. The area has been gripped. 

Sheep graze the area and supplementary food is provided in the winter. The condition of the heather is variable. The eastern half of the survey area (i.e. the western part of CL151) lacks significant quantities (less than 10 per cent) of heather in good condition. Grazing and hence suppressed heather, is concentrated around the enclosures at Ravenseat and along the Kirkby Stephen Road (CL149?) as well as on the gill sides. There is a disused lead mine in West Stonesdale.

The eastern part also forms part of the Gunnerside Estate Grouse Shoot (together with Gunnerside Moor to the east) and burnt regularly with the heather regularly reaching between 30 and 45cm before burning. A number of different parts of this area are receiving a variety of grazing regimes as part of the long-running Hall Moor experiment conducted by the Game Conservancy. High grazing levels above West Stonesdale have affected the blanket mire causing loss of heather.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines.

VEG:
The following information and the accompanying habitat map are based on the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor report (1992) which used the National Vegetation Classification. 

CL154 lies on the side of Gunnerside Gill rising to the summit of Rogan's Seat at over 672m.

The vegetation of the area is predominantly {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire represented by the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community (M19b). {\it Rubus chamaemorus} is abundant on the higher ground. There is an old dam on the border of the common at NY 922 006 with little emergent vegetation. In the blanket mire surrounding the dam there are a number of bog pools dominated by either {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (M2) or {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} (M3).

The steep gill sides are dominated by acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) with the less steep slopes supporting {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} grassland (U6). In Gunnerside Gill there are several large areas of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (U20) associated with more frequently draining soils. Where there is some base enrichment of soils from the underlying limestone, a more species-rich grassland develops. This is {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} grassland (U4). There are also some areas of heath on the valley sides comprising H12 ({\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} heath) and H9 ({\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath). 

There are disused mines on the sides of Gunnersides Gill with large areas of partially vegetated spoil.

MANAGE:
The area in general is part of the Gunnerside Estate and is principally managed for grouse shooting. It is burned regularly. The heather reaches an average of between 30 and 45cm before burning. Sheep formerly grazed throughout the moor. As part of the long-running Hall Moor experiment conducted by the Game Conservancy, a number of different areas are receiving a variety of grazing regimes. Heather is absent from many of the steep gill-sides due to heavy grazing. The vegetation is being eroded around Rogan's Seat possibly as a result of localised concentrations of sheep.


FAUNA:
Plateau areas of short vegetation support important populations of golden plover and dunlin, and dotterel have been recorded on eroded, stony summits. Red grouse, curlew, lapwing and redshank are locally abundant as breeding birds. Peregrine, raven and ring ouzel nest on crags. The numerous watercourses are habitat for breeding common sandpiper and dipper and Birkdale Tarn (CL149) attracts breeding teal and wigeon. Areas of tall heath are particularly important for breeding merlin and short-eared owl (SSSI citation).

VEG:
A brief site visit was made to CL156 (viewed from 'Butter Tubs'). Young {\it Salix cinerea} trees were noted and {\it Blechnum spicant, Chamerion angustifolium, Fragaria} sp., {\it Cryptogramma crispa, Polystichum aculeatum?, Oxalis} sp., {\it Polypodium} sp., {\it Silene vulgaris?, Asplenium adiantum-nigrum} and {\it Thymus} sp. The remainder of the common appeared similar to the adjoining CL17 with acidic grassland on the steeper slopes with {\it Juncus effusus/Sphagnum} flushes and dry modified bog on the higher ground. 

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation. 

Mallerstang-Swaledale Head is outstanding as an extensive block of upland habitats, many of which are of high quality, including limestone grassland. gritstone cliff, dwarf shrub heath, acidic grassland and a wide range of mire systems, in particular ombrogenous blanket bog and flushed soligenous mires. These habitats support important populations of upland breeding birds. The maintenance of this nature conservation interest is dependent upon appropriate levels of grazing and burning and cessation of artificial drainage.

The majority of the land on Mallerstang Common and in North Yorkshire supports a mixture of acidophilous vegetation developed on a variety of substrates.

Blanket bog occurs extensively on peat on the gentle slopes and summit plateaux with an altitudinal range from 400 to 700 metres. {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} is ubiquitous, with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} particularly at higher levels. A richer bog vegetation occurs where grazing is less intense: in such areas {\it Calluna vulgaris} is often frequent and may dominate where burning has been carried out to promote its growth. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} also occurs widely. Where the peat is sufficiently wet the richest bog vegetation persists: species present include {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos, Narthecium ossifragum, Erica tetralix}, a number of Sphagna and, rarely, {\it Drosera rotundifolia}. 

On summits the peat mantle is often eroded to form haggs. {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} is a colonist of bare peat here. Where erosion is most extreme as at Lodge Haggs (CL149), species such as {\it Polytrichum juniperinum} recolonise bare mineral substrates.

Areas of thin peat or mineral soil where grazing has been light support dry heath vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. Lodge Edge (CL149) is one of the largest such areas in northern England. Along this summit ridge the dwarf-shrubs show a prostrate, wind-pruned form due to extreme exposure.

On Pickersett and Hood Rigg (CL156) a different type of heath characterised by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} is unusual in having an abundance of lichens {\it Cladonia} spp. {\it Calluna vulgaris/Vaccinium myrtillus} heath is most luxuriant where it occurs on steep gill sides subject to only light grazing and no burning. In these situations {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} can occur and some gills have scattered trees of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pubescens, Populus tremula} and at one site, {\it Juniperus communis}.

The lower slopes of Birkdale (CL149), Great Sleddale (CL152) and Mallerstang (CL93 Cumbria) and Thwaite Commons (CL156) tend to have been hardest grazed giving rise to acidic grasslands. These areas are characterised by species such as {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Acidic grassland is also found on some of the highest tops: at High Seat (709 m) occurs {\it Carex bigelowii}, a northern montane species rare in the Pennines. 

Throughout the areas of blanket bog and acidic grassland there are flushes giving rise to soligenous mire. These frequently are characterised by {\it Carex echinata} and the {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. A particularly species-rich example occurs at Green Springs (SD 874978?, CL156?). Other flushes typically include Sphagna, {\it Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus, Carex nigra, C. rostrata} and {\it Viola palustris}. On Shunner (CLs 17, 152 and 156) are flushes rich in mosses such as {\it Cratoneuron commutatum} and {\it C. fillicinum}; these are the southernmost locations in Britain for the nationally rare {\it Saxifraga hirculus}.

MANAGE:
No management observations were made during the brief site visit. Thwaite common is one of the areas mentioned in the SSSI citation as tending to be hardest grazed giving rise to acidic grasslands.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the brief site visit. Birds noted during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines were short-eared owl, golden plover, curlew, lapwing, ring ouzel and wheatear (area surveyed also includes CLs 29, 158 and 110). The SSSI citation (covering CLs 17, 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 147, 157, 158 and 230) states that the moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their populations of merlin, golden plover, short-eared owl, peregrine and hen harrier.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
Only a brief site visit was made. The lower slopes support acidic grassland comprising {\it Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus, Hypnum} sp., {\it Polytrichum commune, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile} and {\it Festuca rubra}. Also recorded were occasional {\it Thymus} sp. and {\it Vicia sepium}. {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is locally frequent in small areas of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic. Flushes near the base of the slope support abundant {\it Nardus stricta}, frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cirsium palustre, Juncus effusus, Viola palustris, Carex panicea, C. echinata, Prunella vulgaris} and locally frequent {\it Cynosurus cristatus} and Oxalis} sp. 

This common was covered by the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Abbotside Common-Askrigg Common-East Bolton-Redmire Moor, 1993) on which the following information is based...... 

The common is part of a long strip of moorland on the north-facing slope of Swaledale (see also CLs 29 (part), 158 and 110). The southern boundary of this strip is the watershed between Swaledale and Wensleydale. There is an area of high plateau along the watershed which reaches a maximum altitude of 670m on CL29. The land slopes away to a minimum of 400m along the boundary of the enclosed land. The moorland is dissected by Oxnop Gill (CLs 157 and 158) which is notable for its limestone scar. The area shows the classic stepped Yorkshire Dales landscape with a series of flat benches being separated by steeper slopes. The steeper slopes are frequently marked with bands of siliceous rocks, those at higher levels being sandstone, below which are limestone outcrops. Here also there are characteristically many shake holes. There is evidence of some past lead mining activity in the form of disused mines and spoil tips. 

The high ground supports blanket mire of two types in roughly equal proportions. The {\it Calluna vulgaris} sub-community (M20b) of the {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is widespread where {\it Sphagnum} has been lost. There are also patches of the species poor sub-community (M20a). The remainder of the blanket bog is represented by both the {\it Erica tetralix} (M19a) and the {\it Empetrum nigrum} (M19b) sub-communities of the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire in which {\it E. vaginatum} is prominent along with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} and {\it Erica tetralix}. {\it Drosera rotundifolia} occurs on {\it Sphagnum} hummocks. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs on the high plateau. There are isolated patches of {\it Erica tetralix-Sphagnum papillosum} blanket mire (M18b) where Sphagna are more abundant and {\it E. tetralix} becomes the dominant ericoid. Where the peat is eroding, as at Bull Bogs in the west (CL29) and along the watershed {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} bog pools (M3) have developed.

The slopes between benches and the lower ground are dominated by acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} (U5) and {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} (U6). Where limestone is able to exert its influence, the grassland is richer and is principally {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} (U4). There are occasional patches of {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Rumex acetosella} grassland (U1) and, where leaching is less significant, {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} calcareous grassland (CG10) has been able to develop - this is most notable on the ground adjacent to the moorland edge. Some of the larger shake holes have ferns including {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Cystopteris fragilis} and {\it Polystichum aculeatum} with herbs such as {\it Oxalis acetosella} and this represents the {\it Asplenium viride-Cystopteris fragilis} community (U23).

Some of the steeper slopes between benches support heath. There are a number of communities here including {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} (H9), {\it Calluna vulgaris-Vaccinium myrtillus} (H12a) and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus-Deschampsia flexuosa} (H18). All of the heath found on this common was of the H18 community.

There are several examples of {\it Juncus effusus} flushes (M6c).

An area of acid/neutral scree was mapped on the northern slopes of the beacon during the Phase 1 survey of the Yorkshire Dales and an area of dry heath/acid grassland mosaic on top of the beacon, extending along Blackstone Edge to the south. These habitats are not shown on the Upland Habitat Survey.

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their blanket bog and heather moorland vegetation communities.

The upland block between Lovely Seat and Stainton Moor on the watershed between Wensleydale and Swaledale is an outstanding example of North Pennines moorland, having the most extensive and complete west to east transition from blanket bog to dry heathland. 

On the flat plateau (c. 500 m) between Abbotside Common CL17 and Greets Moss (including CLs 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 157, 158, 230), towards the western end of the SSSI, {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is the dominant community with the heather reaching 40 cm in height in places. On slightly drier, gently sloping ground where the heather canopy is more open {\it Empetrum nigrum} occurs, along with areas of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In the more heavily-grazed areas below the main plateau {\it E. vaginatum) increases, bryophytes decrease and the vegetation is generally more species-poor. Dotted across the blanket bog are pools dominated by {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum}, with {\it S. recurvum} and {\it E. angustifolium} around the margins. Where peat erosion has exposed the underlying sandstone the vegetation has become {\it C. vulgaris} dominated, the more wet-loving species becoming rare or absent.

Within the blanket bog on the western part of the SSSI, three small raised mires have been identified which between them support {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Listera cordata}. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs locally in the central and western parts of the site.

On the slopes, and particularly on the eastern portion of the site, the vegetation is predominantly heathland.

MANAGE:
The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines:

The area is used for grouse shooting and sheep grazing. There was no evidence of burning although the plateau area has been gripped in an attempt to improve heather growth. The average height of the heather is between 15cm and 30cm. On the blanket bogs at higher levels heather cover is between 50 and 75 percent. 

Sheep graze throughout the area although it is understood that the estate are seeking to reduce numbers on the moor. Lightly grazed heather is widespread and there is only local occurrence of supressed and 'topiary' heather. Occasional dead heather plants were noted. The marginal grasslands are heavily grazed.


FAUNA:
Lapwing, black-headed gull, jackdaw and rabbit were recorded during the site visit. Birds noted during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines were short-eared owl, golden plover, curlew, lapwing, ring ouzel and wheatear (area surveyed also includes CLs 29, 157 and 110). The SSSI citation (covering CLs 17, 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 147, 157, 158 and 230) states that the moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their populations of merlin, golden plover, short-eared owl, peregrine and hen harrier.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
Target notes by PD.....

Around Oxnop scar there is short, sheep-grazed (semi-improved?) calcareous grassland with abundant {\it Thymus} sp. The following were recorded on limestone outcrops: {\it Danthonia decumbens?, Sedum} sp. (yellow), {\it Hieracium} sp., {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Cryptogramma crispa, Asplenium ruta-muraria, Succisa pratensis}. A permanent electric fence has been erected along the track. Semi-improved calcareous grassland continues for 50-100m beyond the fence then gives way to what looks like {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} dry bog on the 1st plateau. The peat extends to the track in places. Haggs show a peat depth of up to 3.5m thick in places. Extensive haggs are visible on the opposite side of the valley (Oxnopp Beck Head). Near the track the bog is dominated by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. Also recorded were frequent {\it Cladonia} spp. and {\it Sphagnum capillifolium}, locally frequent {\it Carex panicea, Sphagnum palustre} and {\it Molinia caerulea} and there were occasional pools with {\it Sphagnum} spp.

This common was covered by the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Abbotside Common-Askrigg Common-East Bolton-Redmire Moor, 1993) on which the following information is based. The common is part of a long strip of moorland on the north-facing slope of Swaledale (see also CLs 29 (part), 157 and 110). The southern boundary of this strip is the watershed between Swaledale and Wensleydale. There is an area of high plateau along the watershed which reaches a maximum altitude of 670m (CL29). The land slopes away to a minimum of 400m along the boundary of the enclosed land. The moorland is dissected by Oxnop Gill on CL158 which is notable for its limestone scar. The area shows the classic stepped Yorkshire Dales landscape with a series of flat benches being separated by steeper slopes. The steeper slopes are frequently marked with bands of siliceous rocks, those at higher levels being sandstone, below which are limestone outcrops. Here also there are characteristically many shake holes. There is evidence of some past lead mining activity in the form of disused mines and spoil tips. 

The high ground supports blanket mire of two types in roughly equal proportions. The {\it Calluna vulgaris} sub-community (M20b) of the {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is widespread where {\it Sphagnum} has been lost. There are also patches of the species poor sub-community (M20a). The remainder of the blanket bog is represented by both the {\it Erica tetralix} (M19a) and the {\it Empetrum nigrum} (M19b) sub-communities of the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire in which {\it E. vaginatum} is prominent along with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} and {\it Erica tetralix}. {\it Drosera rotundifolia} occurs on {\it Sphagnum} hummocks. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs on the high plateau. There are isolated patches of {\it Erica tetralix-Sphagnum papillosum} blanket mire (M18b) where Sphagna are more abundant and {\it E. tetralix} becomes the dominant ericoid. Where the peat is eroding as at Bull Bogs in the west (CL29) and along the watershed {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} bog pools (M3) have developed.

The slopes between benches and the lower ground are dominated by acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} (U5) and {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} (U6). Where limestone is able to exert its influence, the grassland is richer and is principally {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} (U4). There are occasional patches of {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Rumex acetosella} grassland (U1). Where leaching is less significant, {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} calcareous grassland (CG10) has been able to develop, this is most notable on the ground adjacent to the moorland edge. Some of the larger shake holes have ferns including {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Cystopteris fragilis} and {\it Polystichum aculeatum} with herbs such as {\it Oxalis acetosella} and this represents the {\it Asplenium viride-Cystopteris fragilis} community (U23).

There are several examples of {\it Juncus effusus} flushes (M6c).

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their blanket bog and heather moorland vegetation communities.

The upland block between Lovely Seat and Stainton Moor on the watershed between Wensleydale and Swaledale is an outstanding example of North Pennines moorland, having the most extensive and complete west to east transition from blanket bog to dry heathland. 

On the flat plateau (c. 500 m) between Abbotside Common CL17 and Greets Moss (including CLs 29, 157, 158, 110, 32, 91, 230, 97), towards the western end of the SSSI, {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is the dominant community with the heather reaching 40 cm in height in places. On slightly drier, gently sloping ground where the heather canopy is more open {\it Empetrum nigrum} occurs, along with areas of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In the more heavily-grazed areas below the main plateau {\it E. vaginatum) increases, bryophytes decrease and the vegetation is generally more species-poor. Dotted across the blanket bog are pools dominated by {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum}, with {\it S. recurvum} and {\it E. angustifolium} around the margins. Where peat erosion has exposed the underlying sandstone the vegetation has become {\it Calluna}-dominated, the more wet-loving species becoming rare or absent.

Within the blanket bog on the western part of the SSSI, three small raised mires have been identified which between them support {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Listera cordata}. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs locally in the central and western parts of the site.

On the slopes, and particularly on the eastern portion of the site, the vegetation is predominantly heathland. 

Locally {\it Vaccinium} becomes dominant over {\it Calluna} as at Summer Lodge Tarn (CL32) where {\it Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina} and {\it D. flexuosa} also characterise the heath community.

MANAGE:
The semi-improved calcareous grassland around Oxnop Scar was grazed short by sheep at the time of the site visit. A permanent electric fence had been erected along the track. There were extensive haggs around Oxnop Beck Head. No other management observations were made.

The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines:

The area is used for grouse shooting and sheep grazing. There was no evidence of burning although the plateau area has been gripped in an attempt to improve heather growth. The average height of the heather is between 15cm and 30cm. On the blanket bogs at higher levels, heather cover is between 50 and 75 percent. 

Sheep graze throughout the area although it is understood that the estate are seeking to reduce numbers on the moor. Lightly-grazed heather is widespread and there is only local occurrence of supressed and 'topiary' heather. Occasional dead heather plants were noted. The marginal grasslands are heavily grazed.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the site visit.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI (within which the major portion of the common is situated) has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
The northern section of this common supports mature dry heath dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris}. {\it Calluna} is regenerating in areas burnt about 2 years ago with about 35 per cent cover. Elsewhere cover is 95-100 per cent in an even-aged sward, except around a few small patches of sheep-grazed acid grassland ({\it Nardus stricta, Festuca} sp., {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}). There is scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

The southern part again supports {\it Calluna vulgaris}-dominated dry heath, 70-80 per cent cover with a hummocky appearance with a carpet of {\it C. vulgaris} between a {\it Festuca} sp., {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta} sward. 

There are 2 further sections lying to the south but both are less than 1ha and were not surveyed.

MANAGE:
The northern section is managed by burning with some sheep grazing. Square sections approximately 60 x 80m had been burnt recently and approximately 2 years ago. The southern section is probably grazed by sheep. There is apparently internal fencing on the southern section and the quarry appears to have encroached on it, although there are 28 rights to take limestone for burning. There are no rights of pasture on either section.


FAUNA:
Red grouse were abundant throughout the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines, 1992 (Scargill High Moor - Kexwith Moor - Marske) survey area.

VEG:
CL292 comprises an area of acidic, dry dwarf shrub heath on Hurst Moor to the north east of Arkengarthdale. This common was not included in the current survey having been covered by the NVC Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines, 1992 (Scargill High Moor - Kexwith Moor - Marske) on which this report is based. 

The common lies within an area of H9 {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath, characteristic of the lower shelves and gentle slopes in the survey area. {\it Calluna} is the overwhelming dominant with few other associates, chiefly a little {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, together with occasional {\it Plagiothecium undulatum, Cladonia impexa, Lophocolea bidentata} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}. {\it Empetrum nigrum} is present locally on rocky ground. 

The common borders onto an area of continuous {\it Pteridium aquilinum} to the east that has developed around some gills: {\it Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile} community (U20). There is a small amount of {\it Carex echinata-Sphagnum recurvum/auriculatum} mire, {\it Juncus effusus} sub-community (M6c) amongst the U20. Stands of this community are frequent throughout the survey area. Among the dominant {\it Juncus effusus} they have a mossy ground layer with an abundance of both {\it Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Polytrichum commune}.

MANAGE:
General land use for the survey area of the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines, 1992 (Scargill High Moor - Kexwith Moor - Marske) is for both red grouse and sheep. Few sheep were seen and the emphasis in land-use is probably for grouse. There are many lines of grouse butts in the area. Heather is burnt in frequent small patches or long strips. Most of the heather is in the building stage around 30-45cm tall and is burnt when about 45-60cm in height. Grazing levels in {\it Calluna}-rich communities are low and heather is generally in good condition.


FAUNA:
Curlew and lapwing were recorded during the site visit. Red grouse were abundant throughout during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines, 1992 (Scargill High Moor - Kexwith Moor - Marske) survey area. Rabbits were locally abundant on and around the mine tips.

VEG:
An extensive area of {\it Calluna vulgaris} with patches of acid grassland and {\it Pteridium aquilinum} (especially along the becks). The condition of {\it Calluna} varies but mostly, on higher ground, it is in good condition (80-95 percent cover, height 10-25cm). Lower down there are more extensive areas of 'carpet' {\it Calluna} and very short grass. There is frequent {\it Linum catharticum} near the millstone grit wall. Other species present are {\it Festuca} sp., {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. Along the road verge there is frequent {\it Cirsium arvense, Dactylis glomerata}, occasional {\it Arrhenatherum elatius}, locally frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, D. flexuosa, Elytrigia} sp., {\it Anthriscus sylvestris, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, G. verum, Tussilago farfara, Achillea millefolium} and locally abundant {\it Agrostis capillaris}.

This common was included in the NVC Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines, 1992 (Scargill High Moor - Kexwith Moor - Marske) from which the following information is reproduced. 

Marrick Moor is a low plateau shelf (valley-side bench) bounded by the steep escarpment of Fremington Edge to the south-west and the improved pastures of Hurst and Marrick to the south and east. H9 ({\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa}) heath predominates on all the lower shelves and gentle slopes of the survey area. {\it Calluna} is the overwhelming dominant with few other associates, chiefly a little {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme}, together with occasional {\it Plagiothecium undulatum, Cladonia impexa, Lophocolea bidentata} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}. {\it Empetrum nigrum} is present locally on rocky ground. 

An area of mine spoil supporting U1 ({\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Rumex acetosella}) / U4 ({\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile}) grassland bisects the common. This particular area is not mentioned in the report, but areas of old lead-mine spoil tips at Hurst, Fell End, Low Moor and Windegg within the survey area have areas of rock debris and short grassland of U4. The nationally scarce* {\it Minuartia verna} grows among rock debris near Hurst and in the grassland, while other species of more general occurrence in the grassland are {\it Thymus polytrichus, Viola riviniana, Festuca rubra, Trifolium repens} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia}. Parts of the grassland have an abundance of lichens, mainly {\it Cladonia impexa} and {\it Coelocaulon aculeatum}.

Stands of {\it Carex echinata-Sphagnum recurvum/auriculatum} mire, {\it Juncus effusus} sub-community (M6c), are frequent throughout the survey area. Among the dominant {\it Juncus effusus} they have a mossy ground layer with an abundance of both {\it Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Polytrichum commune}. 

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

MANAGE:
A line of grouse butts was noted on the lower slopes of the moor during the field visit. Grazing intensity varies across the moor, being fairly heavy on the lower slopes.

Land use of the survey area in general (Scargill High Moor - Kexwith Moor - Marske: Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines, 1993) is for both red grouse and sheep. Few sheep were seen and the emphasis in land use is probably for grouse. There are many lines of grouse butts in the area. Heather is burnt in frequent small patches or long strips. Most of the heather is in the building stage around 30-45cm tall and is burnt when about 45-60cm in height. Most sheep were seen in the grassland around the lead-mine spoil tips and where {\it Festuca-Agrostis-Galium} grasslands are extensive on mineral soils. In the {\it Calluna}-rich communities, grazing levels are low and heather is generally in good condition.


FAUNA:
Rabbits, jackdaw and chaffinch were recorded during the site visit. Short-eared owl, golden plover, curlew, lapwing, ring ouzel and wheatear were recorded during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines for the area covering Muker Common (CL29), Oxnop common (CL157) and Summer Lodge Moor (including CLs 158 and 110). There are no faunal records for the Ivelet Moor section of this common. 

The SSSI citation (covering CLs 17, 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 147, 157, 158 and 230) states that the moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their populations of merlin, golden plover, short-eared owl, peregrine and hen harrier.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
Target notes from PD......

{\it Thymus} sp., {\it Pilosella officinarum, Luzula campestris, Carex} sp., {\it Prunella vulgaris, Potentilla erecta, Vaccinium myrtillus, Calluna vulgaris, Polygala} sp. and {\it Nardus stricta} were recorded from the acidic grassland along the southern boundary of Ivelet Moor. There are occasional {\it Juncus inflexus/J. effusus} flushes. Some rock outcrops here support calcareous grassland. 

On the eastern side of Butter Tubs (SD 874 961, Muker common section) the following species were recorded: {\it Solidago virgaurea?, Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, Alchemilla} sp., {\it Ajuga} sp. (near top), {\it Mecanopsis cambrica, Oxalis acetosella} (at bottom), {\it Conopodium majus, Geranium robertianum} and {\it Viola} sp. The rest of this section appeared similar to CL17 with acidic grassland on the steeper slopes with {\it Juncus effusus/Sphagnum} flushes and dry modified bog on the top. There are limestone and millstone grit outcrops in Cliff Force Gorge and exposed, loose shale. No further survey was carried out. 

The following information and the accompanying habitat map are based on the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; the Abbotside Common - Askrigg Common - East Bolton - Redmire Moor report covering the Muker Common section and the Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor report covering the Ivelet Moor Section. This survey used the National Vegetation Classification.

The common comprises two separte parcels of land, one situated along the southern side of Swaledale and the other to the north of Swaledale.

(1).  The Muker Common portion lies on the southern side of Swaledale and is situated largely within the Lovely Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI. The southern boundary of the site is the watershed between Swaledale and Wensleydale. There is an area of high plateau along the watershed which reaches a maximum altitude of 670m. The ground slopes away to a minimum of 450m along the boundary of the enclosed land. There are numerous shake holes. There is evidence of some past lead mining activity in the form of disused mines and spoil tips.

The high ground supports blanket mire of two types in roughly equal proportions. The {\it Calluna vulgaris} sub-community (M20b) of the {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is widespread where {\it Sphagnum} has been lost. There are also patches of the species poor sub-community (M20a). The remainder of the blanket bog is represented by both the {\it Erica tetralix} (M19a) and the {\it Empetrum nigrum} (M19b) sub-communities of the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire in which {\it E. vaginatum} is prominent along with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} and {\it Erica tetralix}. {\it Drosera rotundifolia} occurs on {\it Sphagnum} hummocks. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs on the high plateau. There are isolated patches of {\it Erica tetralix-Sphagnum papillosum} blanket mire (M18b) where Sphagna are more abundant and {\it E. tetralix} becomes the dominant ericoid. Where the peat is eroding as at Bull Bogs in the west and along the watershed, {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} bog pools (M3) have developed.

The lower ground is dominated by acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} (U5) and {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} (U6). Where limestone is able to exert its influence, the grassland is richer and is principally {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Galium saxatile} (U4). There are occasional patches of {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Rumex acetosella} grassland (U1). Where leaching is less significant, {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} calcareous grassland (CG10) has been able to develop, this is most notable on the ground adjacent to the moorland edge. Some of the larger shake holes have ferns including {\it Dryopteris dilatata, Cystopteris fragilis} and {\it Polystichum aculeatum} with herbs such as {\it Oxalis acetosella} and this represents the {\it Asplenium viride-Cystopteris fragilis} community (U23).

{\it Persicaria vivipara} was recorded at West Greenseat.

The following information is reproduced from the citation for the Lovely Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI:

The moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their blanket bog and heather moorland vegetation communities.

The upland block between Lovely Seat and Stainton Moor on the watershed between Wensleydale and Swaledale is an outstanding example of North Pennines moorland, having the most extensive and complete west to east transition from blanket bog to dry heathland. 

On the flat plateau (c. 500 m) between Abbotside Common CL17 and Greets Moss (including CLs 29, 157, 158, 110, 32, 91, 230, 97), towards the western end of the SSSI, {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is the dominant community with the heather reaching 40 cm in height in places. On slightly drier, gently sloping ground where the heather canopy is more open {\it Empetrum nigrum} occurs, along with areas of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In the more heavily-grazed areas below the main plateau {\it E. vaginatum) increases, bryophytes decrease and the vegetation is generally more species-poor. Dotted across the blanket bog are pools dominated by {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum}, with {\it S. recurvum} and {\it E. angustifolium} around the margins. Where peat erosion has exposed the underlying sandstone the vegetation has become {\it Calluna}-dominated, the more wet-loving species becoming rare or absent.

Within the blanket bog on the western part of the SSSI, three small raised mires have been identified which between them support {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Listera cordata}. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs locally in the central and western parts of the site.

On the slopes, and particularly on the eastern portion of the site (not coincident with common land), the vegetation is predominantly heathland.
 
Locally, {\it V. myrtillus} becomes dominant over {\it Calluna} as at Summer Lodge Tarn (CL32) where {\it Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina} and {\it D. flexuosa} also characterise the heath community. 

(2). The Ivelet Moor section is situated to the north of Swaledale on a bend in the River Swale. It comprises a section of high plateau which rises to 672m at Rogan's Seat just to the north of the common. There are disused lead mines in Swinner Gill along the western boundary of the common. 

The vegetation of the higher ground is predominantly {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire represented by the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community (M19b). {\it Rubus chamaemorus} is abundant on the higher ground. There is an old dam on the border of the common at NY 922 006 with little emergent vegetation. In the blanket mire surrounding the dam there are a number of bog pools dominated by either {\it Sphagnum recurvum} (M2) or {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} (M3).

The steep slopes are dominated by acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) with the less steep slopes supporting {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} grassland (U6). Where there is some base enrichment of soils from the underlying limestone, a more species-rich grassland develops. This is {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} grassland (U4). Where the calcareous influence is strong there are stands of {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} grassland (CG10). There are also some areas of heath comprising H12 ({\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} and H9 ({\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa}). 

There is relic woodland on the slopes below Arngill Scar and below the survey boundary there is {\it Fraxinus excelsior} woodland belonging to {\it Fraxinus excelsior - Sorbus aucuparia - Mercurialis perennis} woodland (W9).  On the steep slopes adjoining the river there are scattered trees, mostly {\it Betula} sp. with some {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
The Ivelet Moor section is part of the Gunnerside Estate and is principally managed for grouse shooting. It is burned regularly. The heather reaches an average of between 30 and 45cm before burning. Sheep formerly grazed throughout the moor. As part of the long-running Hall Moor experiment conducted by the Game Conservancy, a number of different areas are receiving a variety of grazing regimes. Heather is absent from many of the steep gill sides due to heavy grazing. Areas of calcareous grassland are also generally heavily grazed. There are disused lead mines in Swinner Gill.

Muker common is used for grouse shooting and sheep grazing. There was no evidence of burning although the plateau has been gripped in an attempt to improve heather growth. The average height of heather growth is between 15 and 30cm. On the blanket bogs at higher levels heather cover is between 50 and 75 percent. Sheep graze throughout the area although it is understood that the estate are seeking to reduce stock numbers. Lightly grazed heather is widespread and there is only local occurrence of suppressed and topiary heather. Occasional dead heather plants were noted. The marginal grasslands are heavily grazed.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded during the 1992 Survey of Upland habitats in the North Pennines.

VEG:
The following information and the accompanying habitat map are based on the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor report (1992) which used the National Vegetation Classification.

The southern part of CL42 is bordered to the north by Mill Gill or Old Gang Beck, to the south by Swaledale and to the west by Gunnerside Gill. The gill sides are characteristically steep and support heath communities. The area (together with Reeth Moors - CL11 and Whar Moor - CL43 pt) was formerly mined and there are numerous derelict mine workings and spoil heaps.

The vegetation of the high ground in the north is predominantly the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community of {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M19b). The area around Standard and Brownsey Moor in the south-west supports {\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} heath (H12). Here the blanket mire is restricted to the summits of the plateau. The remainder of the area is a complex of heath and grassland communities.

There is extensive development of both {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} (H9) and {\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} (H12) heaths on the sloping ground in the south. Heath is frequently interspersed with acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) and {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} (U6). Where the soils are well drained, particularly around Mill Gill, there are several patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum - Galium saxatile} (U20), many of which have been sprayed with herbicide.

Where limestone lies close to the surface or around outcrops, species-rich grasslands occur. The most widespread of these is {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} grassland (U4) although there are also a number of patches of {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} (CG10). 

There are many unvegetated spoil heaps throughout the area and, where they have been undisturbed for some time, a good growth of lichens has developed.

MANAGE:
The area (together with Reeth Moors - CL11 and Whar Moor - CL43 pt) is used for both grouse shooting and sheep grazing. The heaths and blanket mires are regularly burned when the heather reaches between 30cm and 45cm. The area does not appear to have been extensively gripped. Sheep graze across all parts of the moor but tend to concentrate around the gill edges and the boundaries of the enclosed land. Suppressed heather is widespread, especially on the southern half of the site (CL42). To the north on the higher ground, sheep are less frequent and lightly grazed heather is common. There is abundant evidence of former mining activity. There are several derelict smelting mills and a large number of shafts.


FAUNA:
Snipe was recorded during the site visit. One red grouse was seen near the summit plateau of Hoove during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (1992). Red grouse were abundant on the Peat Moor Hill/Kexwith Moor section with rabbits locally abundant on and around the mine tips.

VEG:
This large upland common encompasses several extensive blocks of moorland forming a "horseshoe" surrounding Arkengarthdale (see key to individual habitat maps). The habitat maps have been based upon the 1992/93 Survey of Upland Habitats in the Northern Pennines, which used the National Vegetation Classification (see below).

Target notes from present survey (surveyor/date not clear)........

The common extends into County Durham. Near the border there is {\it Nardus stricta}-dominated acid grassland with {\it Juncus squarrosus}, patches of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} and locally abundant {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Festuca rubra} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}. Away from the road there is dry heath or a mosaic of acid grassland/dry heath. {\it Thymus} sp. was recorded in short grass along the road only. 

Just to the south-west of the border crossing there is {\it Eriophorum vaginatum}-dominated dry modified bog with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} (all 4 short, less than 7cm, and looking like grassland from a distance). There was occasional {\it Sphagnum capillifolium}. Drains have been inserted in places (0.5m deep and wide) with locally abundant {\it Carex nigra}. {\it Juncus effusus} flushes have abundant {\it Sphagnum} (abundant {\it S. recurvum?}, locally frequent {\it S. papillosum} and {\it S. palustre}), locally abundant {\it Cladonia} sp., locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} and occasional {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum}. 

The rest of the common (viewed from the north-east border crossing) has some extensive patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

William Gill, at the western end of the common, supports {\it Calluna vulgaris}-dominated dry heath with patches of acid grassland ({\it Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus, Agrostis capillaris}) and {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. The {\it Calluna} is mature here with areas further upslope burnt. Some areas of bog along the beck appear to be caused by land slippage (sandstone/millstone grit) with scattered fronds of {\it Blechnum spicant} amongst the {\it Calluna}. 

The area of CL43 south-west of Arkengarthdale was covered by the Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor (1992) report of the North Pennines Phase 2 survey. The following information has been extracted from that report.

This is an area of moorland plateau rising to a maximum altitude of 668m in the west and includes the valley-head of Arkengarthdale which lies to the east of the site. The area is dissected by a number of gills, several of which are deeply incised and steep-sided, and drain eastward into Arkengarthdale. The western boundary corresponds to the ownership boundary which follows approximately the line of the watershed. To the east, water drains into Arkengarthdale and to the west, into the Swaledale.

The south-east of the site is dominated by old mine workings and there is extensive, partially vegetated mine spoil.

The high ground supports the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M19b). {\it Empetrum nigrum} is frequent and on the highest ground there is {\it Rubus chamaemorus} and {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea}. On the high ground where there are steep slopes, as at Water Crag and Moorhen Nest and also Annaside Head, the vegetation is predominantly {\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} heath (H12). Lower down, where the blanket mire is relatively intact, there are patches of {\it Erica tetralix} sub-community (M19a). Prolonged overgrazing is assumed to have converted the remainder of the mire vegetation to acid grassland.

A broad swathe of land to the west of the Tan Hill road supports acid grassland. The principal communities are {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) and more prominently {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} (U6). In these areas the two communities are intricately intermixed and a number of other communities occur in the mosaics. There are frequent patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H9) and numerous small {\it Juncus effusus} flushes (M6c). 

The steep, freely draining soils of the deeply incised gills provide suitable conditions for the extensive development of the {\it Pteridium aquilinum - Galium saxatile} community (U20) and heathland community H12.

The mining spoil is largely unvegetated but there are occasional patches of {\it Juncus squarrosus} grassland (U6) and {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H9). The area around Green Hills has two areas of {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} grassland (CG10). Nearby at Black Mires, there is an area of {\it Holcus lanatus - Juncus effusus} neutral grassland (MG10).

The area to the north-east of Arkengarthdale was covered by the Scargill High Moor - Kexwith Moor - Marske (1993) report of the North Pennines Phase 2 survey, from which the following information is reproduced:

Seal Houses Moor, Smithson Holes Green and Hoove.......

This area includes the steep escarpment below Windegg in the east, the moderately steep slopes from Windegg to Freestone Ridge, the low shelf of Seal Houses Moor, the middle slopes of Smithson Holes Green and the high plateau of Hoove and Stang. The highest point is the summit of Hoove at 553m while the moor edge goes down as low as 320m.

The rocks are all Carboniferous, belonging either to the Carboniferous Limestone Series or the Millstone Grit Series. Limestone outcrops along Windegg where there is a crag and associated talus. Lead mine workings have also brought limestone to the surface.

On the steep to moderately steep escarpment slopes below Windegg there are a variety of grassland communities. At the top of the slope below limestone outcrops there is {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} calcareous grassland (CG10) and {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} grassland (U4), while on the lower slopes {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} grassland (U5) predominates. Flushed areas with {\it Holcus lanatus - Juncus effusus} rush pasture (MG10) are present within the {\it Nardus}. Compared with the {\it Nardus - Galium} grassland, the mesotrophic rush pasture has a much enriched flora. {\it Juncus effusus} and to a lesser degree {\it Deschampsia cespitosa} are dominant, together with an abundant ground layer of other smaller grasses, mainly {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Holcus lanatus}. Other herbs include {\it Ranunculus repens, Trifolium repens, Cirsium palustre} and {\it Cardamine} sp.

On the slopes of Smithson Holes Green and Seal Houses Moor and fringing the blanket peat of Peat Moor Hill, {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} grassland (U6) is predominant. Seal Houses Moor also has exceptionally large {\it Carex - Sphagnum, Juncus effusus} mire (M6c) with abundant {\it Sphagnum recurvum}.

Stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum - Galium saxatile} community (U20) predominate on some of the steeper slopes: e.g. Shaw Beck Gill.

On the summit plateau of Hoove grassland gives way to {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire, {\it Calluna vulgaris - Cladonia} sub-community (M20b).

Cover of {\it Calluna} is generally low in the mire though it is well scattered and usually accompanied by {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. All three dwarf shrubs are generally sparse though they become moderately abundant on the northern end of the summit plateau of Hoove. The most frequent mosses are {\it Hypnum cupressiforme, Dicranum scoparium, Plagiothecium undulatum} and {\it Campylopus paradoxus}. {\it Sphagnum papillosum} is present but is very sparse. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} is locally frequent on the summit of Hoove.

**No reference to western end of section?**

Kexwith Moor and Peat Moor Hill......

Kexwith Moor and Peat Moor Hill in the east comprise an area of moorland rising to 522m at the summit of Peat Moor Hill. {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H9) predominates on all the lower shelves and gentle slopes. {\it Calluna} is the overwhelming dominant with few other associates, chiefly a little {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Campylopus paradoxus, Pohlia nutans} and {\it Hypnum cupressiforme} together with occasional {\it Plagiothecium undulatum, Cladonia impexa, Lophocolea bidentata} and {\it Dicranum scoparium}. {\it Empetrum nigrum} is present locally on rocky ground. 

On steep slopes, for example on gill sides, {\it Pteridium aquilinum - Galium saxatile} (U20) develops with a dense cover of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.

On the high plateau of Kexwith Moor and Booze Moor (incl. Peat Moor Hill) {\it Calluna - Deschampsia} heath gives way to blanket mire communities. The mire community here is {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire, {\it Empetrum nigrum} ssp. {\it nigrum} sub-community (M19b). The mire has abundant {\it Calluna}, co-dominant with {\it E. vaginatum} together with {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Empetrum nigrum} and abundant bryophytes. There are frequent/abundant hypnaceous mosses, mainly {\it Pleurozium schreberi, Hypnum cupressiforme, Rhytidiadelphus loreus} and {\it Plagiothecium undulatum}. {\it Sphagnum capillifolium} is present throughout, though at low cover. {\it Sphagnum papillosum} is present sparsely, generally near pools.

Old lead-mine spoil tips at Low Moor and Windegg have areas of rock debris and short grassland of {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} community (U4) with species such as {\it Thymus polytrichus, Viola riviniana, Festuca rubra, Trifolium repens} and {\it Campanula rotundifolia. Parts of the grassland have an abundance of lichens, mainly {\it Cladonia impexa} and {\it Coelocaulon aculeatum}.

Stands of {\it Carex echinata - Spahgnum recurvum/auriculatum} mire, {\it Juncus effusus} sub-community (M6c) are frequent throughout the area. Among the dominant {\it Juncus effusus} they have a mossy ground layer with an abundance of both {\it Sphagnum recurvum} and {\it Polytrichum commune}.

MANAGE:
The area is grazed by sheep. Also noted during the site visit were some drains and some areas of burnt heather. The dry modified bog looked like grassland from a distance with a sward height less tha 7cm.

The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines.

The area to the south-west of Arkengarthdale is used for grouse shooting and sheep grazing. There are a number of grouse butts across the moor and the area is irregularly burned in large patches. The area has not been extensively gripped but there are a number of places where deep peat is eroding. Sheep graze throughout the moor but especially in the south-east adjacent to Arkengarthdale where prolonged heavy grazing has removed most of the heather from the vegetation. 

The condition of heather is very variable. The high ground along the watershed has heather in generally good condition which reaches a height of between 30 and 45cm. On the lower ground to the east, where sheep are concentrated, there is widespread supressed heather and topiary bushes and in many places the heather has been lost altogether.

The area to the north-east of Arkengarthdale is used predominantly or exclusively for sheep grazing. Graminoid-dominated vegetation predominates so that there is no or little {\it Calluna} to be burnt. Grazing is intense in the grasslands and the high levels of grazing are presumably responsible for the general absence of {\it Calluna} in blanket mire. 

The blanket mire on Hoove has been closely gripped. On Seal Houses Moor, in a large tract of {\it Juncus squarrosus} grassland, there is a line of derelict shooting butts indicating that the area was formerly used for grouse shooting. At present the nearest {\it Calluna} is on the summit of Hoove and the nearest red grouse was seen near there. The shallow peat of the soils which currently support {\it J. squarrosus} are probably also suitable for {\it Calluna} heath and {\it Calluna} may once have predominated here.

The Kexwith Moor and Peat Moor Hill section is managed for both red grouse and sheep. Few sheep were seen and the emphasis in land-use is probably for grouse. There are many lines of grouse butts in the area. Heather is burnt in frequent, small patches or long strips. Most of the heather is in the building stage around 30-45cm tall and is burnt when about 45-60cm in height. Most sheep were seen in the grassland around the lead-mine spoil tips and where {\it Festuca - Agrostis - Galium} grasslands are extensive on mineral soils. In the {\it Calluna}-rich communities grazing levels are low and heather is generally in good condition. 

Blanket mire on Peat Moor Hill has been gripped. Some grips are recent and running with water, but the older ones are largely choked by Sphagna and ineffective. None of the grips appear to have had any effect on the surrounding vegetation apart from where excavated peat has been dumped adjacent to the grips. 

There are extensive old lead-mine spoil tips at Low Moor and Windegg which demonstrate the importance of the area in the past for mining.


FAUNA:
Curlew, blackbird, woodpigeon, pheasant and rabbit were recorded during the site visit.

VEG:
Only the two wooded valleys were surveyed, as the rest had been covered by the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines. 

The lower end of Birbeck wood is {\it Crataegus monogyna/Prunus spinosa} with scattered {\it Fraxinus excelsior}. The ground flora here is poor - bare soil with {\it Allium ursinum} (forming extensive carpets near the river) and {\it Mercurialis perennis}. Some of the {\it Fraxinus excelsior} trees near the river are old coppice with 2 or 3 trunks. Further up the valley there is {\it Acer pseudoplatanus/Fraxinus excelsior} with occasional {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Rosa} sp. 

{\it Betula pendula} becomes more frequent further up the valley with a ground flora of {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Mercurialis perennis, Athyrium filix-femina} and {\it Oxalis acetosella}. The upper margin of the woodland is {\it Crataegus monogyna}-dominated, but with frequent {\it Salix cinerea} and {\it Prunus spinosa}, abundant {\it Hyacinthoides non-scripta} and frequent {\it Prunella vulgaris}. Much of the ground in the upper part of the whole wood is bare as a result of livestock access. 

The woodland gives way to {\it Juncus squarrosus/Festuca ovina/Luzula} sp. grassland with {\it Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and occasional, very short {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. There are flushed areas above the wood with {\it Sphagnum squarrosum, Juncus effusus, Caltha palustris, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Ranunculus ficaria, Cirsium palustre, Lysimachia nummularia}. Other {\it Sphagnum} spp. recorded on the slopes above the woodland include locally frequent {\it S. capillifolium, S. papillosum, S. palustre} and {\it S. auriculatum}. {\it Anemone nemorosa} is also locally abundant in the flushes. Lower down these flush-lines within the woodland there is {\it Alnus glutinosa} old coppice with locally frequent {\it Oxalis acetosella, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Prunella vulgaris}. Most regeneration in the woodland is on the lower slopes and there are some old trees which have been cut down/fallen and left {\it in situ}. Regeneration in the southern part of the wood is generally poor. Where trees have fallen, uprooted by land slippage, loose shaly material is exposed. 

Elias's Stot Wood....

Above the wood there are {\it Juncus inflexus}-dominated flushes with abundant {\it Filipendula ulmaria}, frequent {\it Caltha palustris, Lysimachia nummularium, Centaurea nigra}, occasional {\it Primula vulgaris, Orchis mascula} and locally abundant {\it Carex panicea}. There is also frequent {\it Alchemilla} sp., {\it Bellis perennis, Viola} sp., {\it Pilosella officinarum, Valeriana} sp. and {\it Mentha aquatica} in the sward. Along the edge of the scrub/woodland there is scattered {\it Crataegus monogyna}. Flushed areas are generally muddy under the canopy. {\it Alnus glutinosa} occurs along the stream with frequent {\it Athyrium filix-femina} and occasional {\it Myosotis scorpiodes}. {\it Corylus avellana} and {\it Crataegus monogyna} occur throughout area with {\it Prunus spinosa} with {\it Fraxinus excelsior} lower down slope. There is occasional {\it Sambucus nigra} and scattered {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

The northern half of the wood is on a very steep slope (70 to 80 degrees) with {\it Fraxinus excelsior/Quercus petraea} and {\it Acer campestre} near the top. {\it Mercurialis perennis} occurs in the ground flora and scattered {\it Salix cinerea} in the understorey. {\it Fraxinus excelsior/Betula pendula} occurs further along the slope with abundant {\it Primula vulgaris} in the ground flora. The valley narrows into a gorge with exposed rock on each side of waterfall. The dominant tree species here is {\it Betula pendula}. 

The following information and the accompanying habitat map are based on the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines: Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor report (1992) which used the National Vegetation Classification. 

Gunnerside pasture comprises a spur of land bordering onto Gunnerside Beck to the east, Swaledale to the south and Shore Gill to the west.

The vegetation of the higher ground is predominantly {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire represented by the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community (M19b). On Gunnerside pasture there are areas of {\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} heath (H12) on steep slopes between benches. Dominant species are {\it Calluna} and {\it V. myrtillus} with frequent and occasionally abundant {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea}. There is a high cover of bryophytes.

The steep valley sides are dominated by acid grassland, principally {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) with the less steep slopes supporting {\it Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina} grassland (U6). Where there is some base enrichment of soils from the underlying limestone, a more species-rich grassland develops. This is {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} grassland (U4). Where the calcareous influence is strong, there are stands of {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} grassland (CG10) and these areas are generally heavily grazed. On the steep slopes adjoining the rivers and in some of the gills there are scattered trees, mostly {\it Betula} with some {\it Fraxinus excelsior}.

MANAGE:
The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines. 

The area is part of the Gunnerside Estate and is principally managed for grouse shooting. The area is burnt regularly. The heather reaches an average of between 30 and 45cm before burning. Sheep formerly grazed throughout the moor. As part of the long running Hall Moor experiment conducted by the Game Conservancy, a number of different areas are receiving a variety of grazing regimes. Heather is absent from many of the steep gill sides due to heavy grazing.


FAUNA:
Rabbits were noted in the lower gills during the North Pennines upland survey.

VEG:
The common was not visited for the purposes of the current project as it had been covered by the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Buckden Pike-Great Whernside-Heathfield Moor, eastern half, 1992). The following information is reproduced from that report.

At 575m the summit of Meugher is the highest point and forms part of the watershed between the valleys. Water drains from this high point and the thick covering of peat quickly begins to erode producing heavily hagged areas. The gills are deeply incised and often show exposed bedrock belonging to the Millstone Grit series. Towards the lower slopes of the east the peat becomes thinner and exposed rock and crags become more frequent.

The majority of this block is covered in deep blanket peat in which {\it Eriophorum} spp. are dominant, this represents the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Cladonia} sub-community (M20b) of the {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire. The high ground to the west is richer in heather, Sphagna and pleurocarpous mosses and is represented by {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M19) including areas of the {\it Empetrum nigrum} sub-community (M19b). {\it Rubus chamaemorus} is found in small locallised patches particularly along the southern boundary. Hagging is very common on the high ground. Drainage channels are frequently infested by rushes which represents the {\it Juncus effusus} sub-community (M6c) of the {\it Carex echinata-Sphagnum recurvum/auriculatum} mire.

Lower down the gills as they deepen and the drainage improves the {\it Juncus} flushes give way to {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} grassland (U5). In places these steep dry slopes support bracken which is dense enough to form stands of the {\it Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile} community (U20). The U5, together with U6 {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} grassland are frequently found as a mosaic together and often with the {\it Juncus effusus} (M6c) mires. 

Along the track to the shooting box where the peat thins there is an area dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H9). On rocky ground north of this {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} becomes prominent leading to the development of a small patch of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} heath (H18).

MANAGE:
The land forms part of the catchment area of Gouthwaite Reservoir. The area is primarily managed for grouse shooting and sheep are also grazed on the area. The heather is burnt in a mixture of large and small patches. The heather reaches a height of between 15 and 30cm before burning. Though the heather is generally lightly grazed there are isloated patches of suppressed heather and occasional drumstick forms. The area has been gripped since the aerial photographs were taken in 1974. There are 4 lines of grouse butts reached by a rough track which end near a shooting box.

The impact of sheep grazing is generally low but is locally heavy resulting in a change from heather dominated communities to grassland. Vegetation condition is quite favourable on the high ground but the heather is short possibly as a result of environmental stress. The bilberry which marks the rocky areas of the lower ground is closely cropped. Here, close to the edge of the enclosed pasture, the concentration of sheep has significantly reduced the cover of ericoids.


FAUNA:
No fauna was observed on this particular common during the North Pennines Upland Survey.

VEG:
The common was not visited for the purposes of the current project as it had been covered by the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Buckden Pike-Great Whernside-Heathfield Moor, eastern half, 1992). The following information is reproduced from that report.

The moorland slopes rise gradually from about 270m at the edge of the valley side enclosures to a maximum of 467m at the Wharfedale and Nidderdale watershed. The only areas with steep slopes are those around the gills of the becks. Some areas, particularly on the slopes, and some of the hill tops have exposures of gritstone. The area is drained by numerous streams to the east. 

Blanket mire occurs on thick peat on the higher ground. The cover of Sphagna is patchy and the area supports both the {\it Erica tetralix} sub-community (M19a) of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} mire and the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Cladonia} sub-community (M20b) of the {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} mire. Heather is abundant throughout both these communities. Much of this area has been gripped, with particular attention paid to areas dominated by rushes, the {\it Juncus effusu} sub-community (M6c) of the {\it Carex echinata-Sphagnum recurvum/auriculatum} mires.

A thinner peat cover on the steeper slopes encourages the growth of both {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}, forming the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Deschampsia flexuosa} (H9) and {\it Calluna vulgaris-Vaccinium myrtillus} (H12) heaths. {\it V. myrtillus} is overwhelmingly dominant in places, leading to the development of small patches of {\it V. myrtillus} heath (H18). Some of these areas on the lower gill sides have been invaded by bracken forming large stands of the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus-Dicranum scoparium} sub-community (U20b) of the {\it Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile} community. The bracken has been extensively sprayed with herbicide and burnt?? leaving large bare patches of ground which in places are vegetated solely by {\it Pohlia nutans}. 

In Bayshaw gill there is an area of {\it Juncus squarrosus-Galium saxatile} grassland (U6) bordering onto an area of the {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} sub-community of {\it Molinia caerulea-Potentilla erecta} mire (M25) beyond the CL boundary (Ramsgill Bents).

MANAGE:
The area is managed as grouse moor, although burns vary in size they are generally on the large side and they also appear to be rather infrequent. The area has been gripped especially in the wetter areas and flushes. There are several lines of grouse butts which are accessible via a series of good tracks. The heather generally grows to a height of around 15-30cm although localised patches of taller drumstick heather were noted.

The area is also sheep-grazed. Overall the grazing impact is moderate but particularly on the lower slopes just above the valley-side enclosures (beyond the CL boundary?) a much higher grazing impact was noted especially around feeding points. Grazing levels are also high in the gills.


FAUNA:
No fauna was recorded on this particular common during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines.

VEG:
The following information and the habitat map are based on the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; Buckden Pike - Great Whernside - Heathfield Moor, 1992, an NVC survey.

The area to the south of Burn Edge comprises a narrow strip of moorland bordered to the north by Fern Gill and to the south by Ashford Gill. Maximum altitude is reached at Ashford Gill Head, at the west end of the site and the watershed at 515m and the site slopes to the east reaching its lowest point at about 290m at the moorland edge. The gentle slopes of the moorland contrast with the steeper slopes of the gills to the north and south. Little of the underlying Millstone Grit is exposed. In places the soil is thin and rocky and there are a few disused mine workings.

The moor is well-drained by a series of small gills which drain into 2 main gills forming the boundaries. The peat is quite eroded in places, there are peat haggs on the high ground to the west and to the east there has been some sheet erosion which has exposed the underlying mineral soil.

Gills both in the north and south have similar communities, these are predominantly the {\it Juncus squarrosus - Galium saxatile} grassland (U6) with the {\it Juncus effusus} sub-community (M6c) of the {\it Carex echinata - Sphagnum recurvum/auriculatum} mire in the wetter patches. The steep slopes frequently hold large stands of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} forming the {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum} sub-community (U20a) of the {\it P. aquilinum - Galium saxatile} community. The richer areas support the {\it Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile} (U4) and the {\it Nardus stricta - Galium saxatile} (U5) grasslands.

The lower area of the moorland below approximately 450m is characterised by heath communities dominated mainly by {\it Calluna} - the {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H9). There are patches of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} on the drier slopes, leading to the formation of the {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea - Cladonia impexa} sub-community (H12b) of the {\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} heath and to {\it Vaccinium myrtillus - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H18) - as on the steeper rocky slopes of Rowantree Gill to the east. The frequent occurrence of {\it V. myrtillus} also leads to the development of the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus - Dicranum scoparium} sub-community (U20b).

On the higher ground where the peat thickens {\it Eriophorum} species become dominant forming the {\it Calluna vulgaris - Cladonia} sub-community (M20b) of the {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire. The highest ground around Ashfold Gill head is quite rich in Sphagna and supports the {\it Erica tetralix} sub-community (M19a) of the {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire. Where drainage is impeded by formation of an ironpan, large areas of M6c develop on the open moorland.

MANAGE:
The area to the south of Burn Edge is managed as grouse moor and for sheep grazing. There are 4 lines of shooting butts in the east of the site. The area is burnt in a mixture of small and large patches that have been gripped. Heather cover is good and exceeds 75 per cent across the moor and reaches a height in the range of 15-30cm.

Sheep graze across the moor but seem to concentrate on the gills and on the lower ground to the east. The grazing impact is moderate on heaths and blanket bogs and does not appear to have a serious effect on the heather. Localised patches of heather were noted, the cause of this is unknown. Bracken stands on the gill sides have been sprayed with herbicide.


FAUNA:
Rabbit and black headed gull were recorded from the area of moorland above Swetton to the north-east.

The area south of Dallowgill appears to have good populations of snipe and redshank and birds of note to the north include short-eared owl, hen harrier and golden plover (Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines).

VEG:
Target notes by PD......

From the road the vegetation appears to be all {\it Calluna vulgaris} dry heath with occasional {\it Erica tetralix}. The {\it Calluna} is mostly in good condition (30-40cm high near the road up to 50cm in places), uniform and even aged in appearance. {\it Rumex acetosella} is frequent in recently burnt areas. {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} were locally frequent along the road; {\it Cirsium palustre} occasional. 

There are occasional patches of {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it J. effusus} flushes. {\it Cirsium palustre} is frequent in the flushes and {\it Carex echinata} occasional. Also in flush: {\it Sphagnum recurvum, S. palustre, Polytrichum commune}. {\it Sphagnum papillosum} was locally frequent near one of the flushes. {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum} was recorded in drains and locally frequent {\it Polytrichum alpestre}. There are peripheral patches of {\it Pteridium aquilinum}. 

The area of moorland above Swetton to the north-east, supports a mosaic of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} heath. The {\it Calluna} here is of various ages. Other species recorded were {\it Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Around a {\it Juncus effusus} flush along the road there was frequent {\it Erica tetralix} and {\it Calluna} in distinct pathces, abundant {\it Juncus squarrosus} and {\it Nardus stricta}, frequent {\it Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta} and locally frequent {\it Empetrum nigrum}.

The following information and the habitat map are based on the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; Colsterdale Moor - Hambleton Hill - Pateley Moor, 1992, which used the National Vegetation Classification.

The site slopes away eastward from the watershed which forms western boundary. The area is a low plateau reaching its highest altitude of 411m at the north-western tip. The ground is rocky in places and there are a few low Millstone Grit crags around the eastern margins. The area to the north of Dallowgill is very rocky throughout. The area drains eastward via a series of small becks and some of the gills become deeply incised towards the eastern margins.

The majority of the area south of Dallowgill supports {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H9). Both the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus - Cladonia} spp. (H9b) and the species-poor (H9c) communities are well represented. This latter sub-community appears to arise when the vegetation becomes very tall and the canopy is dense suppressing the cover of bryophytes in particular. The H9b is characterised by abundant {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it V. vitis-idaea} is notably frequent. Along the sides of Dallow Gill {\it V. myrtillus} becomes overwhelmingly dominant leading to the development of the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath (H18).

The area to the north of Dallowgill is predominantly heath but consisting of two main communities, the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus - Cladonia} spp. sub-community (H9b) of the {\it Calluna vulgaris - Deschampsia flexuosa} heath and the {\it Calluna vulgaris} sub-community (H12a) of the {\it Calluna vulgaris - Vaccinium myrtillus} heath. {\it Calluna} is dominant overall but the constancy and frequency of {\it V. myrtillus} is very variable.

Between Dallowgill and Stock Beck Moor is an area which varies a great deal in slope angle, soil thickness and level of drainage and supports a mosaic of plant communities suited to the local conditions. Drier areas are covered with H9 and H12 heaths with {\it Pteridium aquilinum} stands (U20) on slopes. Wetter areas, particularly hollws, contain {\it Juncus effusus} (M6c) mires and {\it Erica tetralix} (M16) wet heath.

The poorly-drained soils provide good conditions for {\it Juncus effusus}. It occurs throughout the area and there are several extensive patches (i.e. acidic/neutral flushing) of the {\it J. effusus} sub-community (M6c) of the {\it Carex echinata - Sphagnum auriculatum/recurvum} mire. {\it Polytrichum commune} is abundant in many of these flushes. Associated with some of these areas there is localised development of {\it Erica tetralix - Sphagnum compactum} wet heath (M16), as at Lingy Close (SE 182 713). On higher, flatter areas to the north {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} becomes prominent leading to the development of the {\it Erica tetralix} sub-community (M19a) of {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire.

The presence of {\it Pteridium aquilinum} is patchy throughout the area and occurs on the drier soils around the margins of the site giving rise to the {\it Vaccinium myrtillus - Dicranum scoparium} sub-community (U20b) of the {\it Pteridium aquilinum - Galium saxatile} community.

MANAGE:
Patches of burnt heather were noted during the site visit and grazing by sheep.

The land is primarily used for grouse shooting and there are several lines of grouse butts across the moor. Burning is frequent in both large and small patches and the heather generally reaches 30-45cm in height. Sheep graze throughout the moor and in general the moorland is lightly grazed. A combination of regular burning and light grazing has produced good quality heath. Gripping has occurred but in general has not been maintained. There are also some deep drains in places. 

There has been some recent planting of native broadleaved trees along the track to the shooting house at SE 164 711.


FAUNA:
Curlew, golden plover and red grouse were recorded during the site visit. 

The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

Plateau areas of short vegetation support important populations of golden plover and dunlin, and dotterel have been recorded on eroded, stony summits. Red grouse, curlew, lapwing and redshank are locally abundant as breeding birds. Peregrine, raven and ring ouzel nest on gritstone crags. The numerous watercourses provide habitat for breeding common sandpiper and dipper. Areas of tall heath are particularly important for breeding merlin and short-eared owl.

The SSSI citation (covering CLs 17, 29, 32, 91, 97, 110, 147, 157, 158 and 230) states that the moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their populations of merlin, golden plover, short-eared owl, peregrine and hen harrier.

Note that the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI has been included within the North Pennine Moors proposed Special Protection Area (pSPA). These are sites of ornithological importance to be designated under the EC Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds.

VEG:
(1). EASTERN SECTION

Target notes by PD......

The common supports {\it Nardus stricta/Juncus squarrosus} grassland on the lower slopes with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa}, abundant {\it Galium saxatile}, locally abundant {\it Potentilla erecta} and locally frequent {\it Agrostis capillaris} and {\it Festuca rubra}. {\it Thymus} sp. occurs in a short sward on limestone outcrops. Also recorded: {\it Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, A. trichomanes-ramosum, Danthonia decumbens?, Oxalis} sp., {\it Cryptogramma crispa?, Geranium robertianum, Chrysosplenium oppositifolium} around/on limestone outcrops. Along gills there is extensive slippage exposing large areas of loose shale. 

On the higher, more level ground there is {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} bog with abundant {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile}, locally frequent {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Festuca rubra, Trichophorum cespitosum, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum} and occasional {\it Erica tetralix}. {\it Calluna vulgaris} is dominant with abundant {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} growing through. 

Millstone grit outcrops occur towards the edge of the first plateau (with {\it Dryopteris dilatata} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} in the gaps) surrounded by {\it Eriophorum vaginatum/Calluna vulgaris} bog extending up the gentle slopes to the second and third (highest) plateaux. Drier areas around outcrops support {\it Empetrum nigrum} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} with abundant {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} and frequent {\it Caldonia} spp. {\it Sphagnum} spp. is locally abundant in the bog (also {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}). Peat shows extensive hagging in these areas; peat depth is up to 2.5m along haggs. Large areas are still active blanket bog (extent not surveyed). 

The eastern part of the common was covered by the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (Abbotside Common-Askrigg Common-East Bolton-Redmire Moor, 1993), described as follows:

The highest point of this site is along the plateau that runs between the valleys of Swaledale and Wensleydale reaching a height of 675m. From here the slopes drop gently off the plateau.

The thick peat on the upper slopes is heavily hagged and often eroded down to the mineral soils and rock. As the slopes steepen the thickness of the peat decreases, especially on the gill sides. Towards the south and west there are a series of limestone outcrops and scars under which steep scree slopes have formed.

The vegetation of the high ground principally belongs to the {\it Erica tetralix} sub-community (M19b) of the {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire with frequent {\it Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. Areas of {\it Calluna}-rich {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire (M20b) are found throughout the high ground and becomes co-dominant in the west where the species-poor sub-community also occurs. Where the peat thins there is development of {\it Calluna vulgaris-Vaccinium myrtillus} heath (H12a).

Around the southern and western margins of the site where the slopes drop away into the valley, blanket mire gives way to acid grassland, mostly {\it Juncus squarrosus-Festuca ovina} (U6). The south-west margin is distinguished by large areas of outcropping limestone in the form of scars and scree slopes and calcareous grassland. Two sub-communities of the {\it Festuca ovina-Agrostis capillaris-Thymus praecox (polytrichus)} grassland are represented: {\it Trifolium repens-Luzula campestris} (CG10a) and {\it Carex pulicaris-Carex panicea} (CG10b). 

The gills on the moorland also have {\it Nardus stricta-Galium saxatile} grassland (U5) and there are numerous small {\it Juncus effusus} flushes belonging to the {\it Carex echinata-Sphagnum auriculatum/recurvum} mire (M6c). There is a base-rich {\it Carex dioica-Pinguicula vulgaris} flush (M10) near the waterfall on Sargill Beck which has a range of sedges. Species include {\it Carex viridula} ssp. {\it oedocarpa, C. nigra, C. panicea, C. echinata, C. pulicaris} and {\it C. viridula} ssp. {\it brachyrhyncha} with {\it frequent {\it Pinguicula vulgaris} and {\it Briza media}. 

This part of the common also lies within the Loveley Seat-Stainton Moor SSSI. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

The moorlands of the North Pennines are of international importance for their blanket bog and heather moorland vegetation communities.

The upland block between Lovely Seat and Stainton Moor on the watershed between Wensleydale and Swaledale is an outstanding example of North Pennines moorland, having the most extensive and complete west to east transition from blanket bog to dry heathland. 

On the flat plateau (c. 500 m) between Abbotside Common CL17 and Greets Moss (including CLs 29, 157, 158, 110, 32, 91, 230, 97), towards the western end of the SSSI, {\it Calluna vulgaris - Eriophorum vaginatum} blanket mire is the dominant community with the heather reaching 40 cm in height in places. On slightly drier, gently sloping ground where the heather canopy is more open {\it Empetrum nigrum} occurs, along with areas of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. In the more heavily-grazed areas below the main plateau {\it E.vaginatum) increases, bryophytes decrease and the vegetation is generally more species-poor. Dotted across the blanket bog are pools dominated by {\it Sphagnum cuspidatum}, with {\it S. recurvum} and {\it E. angustifolium} around the margins. Where peat erosion has exposed the underlying sandstone the vegetation has become {\it C. vulgaris} dominated, the more wet-loving species becoming rare or absent.

Within the blanket bog on the western part of the SSSI, three small raised mires have been identified which between them support {\it Narthecium ossifragum} and {\it Listera cordata}. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} occurs locally in the central and western parts of the site.

On the slopes, and particularly on the eastern portion of the site, the vegetation is predominantly heathland. 

Locally {\it V. myrtillus} becomes dominant over {\it Calluna} as at Summer Lodge Tarn (CL32) where {\it Galium saxatile, Festuca ovina} and {\it D. flexuosa} also characterise the heath community.

(2). WESTERN SECTION

The western section was not visited for the purposes of the current survey and was not included in North Pennines Upland Phase 2 Survey. The habitat map for this part of the common has been based on a Phase 1 survey carried out between 1986 and 1990. The current Phase 1 survey methodology was published in 1990 and extended the category of blanket mire to include two sub-divisions; dry and wet modified bog. The dominant species code shown on the Phase 1 map for this section is predominantly for {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} which is characteristic of dry modified bog. This is consistent with the habitat mapped on the section lying within the SSSI, the adjoining Cumbrian common (CL93) to the west and the habitat of the eastern section of this common. 

A small area of this section to the north west lies within the Mallerstang-Swaledale Head SSSI. The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

Mallerstang-Swaledale Head is outstanding as an extensive block of upland habitats, many of which are of high quality, including limestone grassland, gritstone cliff, dwarf-shrub heath, acidic grassland and a wide range of mire systems, in particular ombrogenous blanket bog and flushed soligenous mires...

The majority of the land on Mallerstang Common and in North Yorkshire supports a mixture of acidophilous vegetation developed on a variety of substrates.

Blanket bog occurs on peat on the gentle slopes and summit plateaux with an altitudinal range from 400 to 700m. {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} is ubiquitous, with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} particularly at higher levels. A richer bog vegetation occurs where grazing is less intense. In such areas {\it Calluna vulgaris} is often frequent and may dominate where burning has been carried out to promote its growth. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} also occurs widely. Where the peat is sufficiently wet the richest bog vegetation persists: species present include {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos, Narthecium ossifragum, Erica tetralix}, a number of Sphagna and, rarely, {\it Drosera rotundifolia}. On summits the peat mantle is often eroded to form haggs. {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} is a colonist of bare peat here. Where erosion is most extreme, species such as {\it Polytrichum juniperinum} recolonises bare mineral substrates.

The lower slopes of (Birkdale, Great Sleddale, Mallerstang Common and Thwaite Common) tend to have been hardest grazed giving rise to acidic grasslands. These areas are characterised by species such as {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile}.

Throughout the areas of blanket bog and acidic grassland there are flushes giving rise to soligenous mire. These are frequently characterised by {\it Carex echinata} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. Other flushes typically include {\it Sphagnum} spp., {\it Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus, Carex nigra, C. rostrata} and {\it Viola palustris}. On Shunner there are flushes rich in mosses such as {\it Cratoneuron commutatum} and {\it C. fillicinum}; these are the southernmost locations in Britain for the nationally rare* {\it Saxifraga hirculus}. 

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

MANAGE:
EASTERN SECTION

No management observations were made during the site visit. The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines report (1993):

Used for grouse shooting on the upper slopes, there are a number of grouse butts and a shooting lodge. The area is burned irregularly in small patches and the plateau is largely unburnt and has been gripped. The heather reaches an average height of between 15cm and 30cm. The proportion of heather cover is variable ranging from a low of 5-25 percent in the heath/grassland mosaic to between 50 and 75 percent in the blanket bog. Sheep are grazed across the area but they tend to concentrate on the lower, grassier slopes. Some of the lower enclosures also hold cattle. Grazing on the upper slopes is low and ericoids become dominant in the blanket mire. Lightly grazed heather and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} is common. 'Topiary' and suppressed heather is only of local ocurrence. The lower slopes are heavily grazed and tend to be grassy. Here the heather is suppressed and often stunted.

Lead mining activity in the past has left large areas of spoil heaps around the site.

WESTERN SECTION

No management observations. The SSSI citation mentions that the lower slopes of Thwaite Common tend to have been amongst the hardest grazed areas giving rise to acidic grasslands. A richer bog vegetation is also said to occur on the SSSI where grazing is less intense suggesting grazing levels are quite high. The common is probably also managed for grouse. There is a shooting house and grouse butts marked on the OS 1:25 000 map. There is a strip of acid grassland where the Pennine Way crosses Great Shunner Fell, probably a direct result of trampling.


FAUNA:
Curlew, lapwing, red grouse and meadow pipit were recorded during the site visit. A pair of peregrines were observed in display flight over this area during the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines (1993). The following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation:

"Plateau areas of short vegetation support important populations of golden plover and dunlin, and dotterel have been recorded on eroded, stony summits. Red grouse, curlew, lapwing and redshank are locally abundant as breeding birds. Peregrine, raven and ring ouzel nest on crags. The numerous watercourses are habitat for breeding common sandpiper and dipper and Birkdale Tarn attracts breeding teal and wigeon. Areas of tall heath are particularly important for breeding merlin and short-eared owl."

VEG:
Target notes by PD.....

To the south, above the slope from Birkdale Tarn there is bog vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris} with abundant {\it Sphagnum, Eriophorum vaginatum}, locally abundant {\it Trichophorum cespitosum}, locally frequent {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} in wet depressions and locally frequent {\it Erica tetralix, Drosera rotundifolia, Deschampsia flexuosa, Agrostis capillaris, Polytrichum commune, Cladonia} sp. and {\it Carex panicea}. The following {\it Sphagnum} species were recorded: {\it S. papillosum, S. palustre, S. capillifolium} and {\it S. cuspidatum} in the wetter depressions. 

The water of the Tarn itself is brownish but translucent - very clear. Marginal vegetation comprises occasional scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} and {\it Polytrichum} sp. The most extensive {\it Juncus effusus} stands are on the northern side of the Tarn. There are {\it Juncus squarrosus/Nardus stricta} and {\it Calluna vulgaris} patches immediately around the Tarn for 10-30m. Peat is 1.2-1.5m thick at the southern edge of the tarn with {\it Calluna} overhanging the eroded parts. 

{\it Calluna vulgaris} covers part of Burnt Moor but the western half appears to be grassland. Much hagging of peat is visible. The area above Birkdale Beck(s) is managed {\it Calluna}. Around Lops Wath there are outcrops of weathered Millstone Grit with occasional patches of {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Calluna}. {\it Pteridium aquilinum} occurs on level ground between Lops Wath and the road. There is a very steep slope with short {\it Calluna} below Lops Wath.

The area to the north-east of Birkdale was covered by the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines; Nine Standard's Rigg - Rogan's Seat - Melbeck's Moor report (1992) which used the National Vegetation Classification. The following information and the relevant section of the habitat map are based on this report.

The area lies on the north side of Upper Swaledale, due south of the county boundary. The site reaches a maximum altitude of 659m near Nine Standard's Rigg to the north-west. Whitsundale Beck forms the eastern boundary of the common and Birk Dale marks the southern edge. The ground dips southward from the watershed to a minimum altitude of 330m. Birkdale Tarn in the south is the only large water body. There is an escarpment in the west at Coldbergh. The area is underlain by limestone as shown by a number of shake holes across the area.

The vegetation is mostly blanket mire, predominantly {\it Calluna vulgaris-Eriophorum vaginatum} (M19) with {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} (M20) particularly along Birkdale. Both the {\it Erica tetralix} (M19a) and {\it Empetrum nigrum} (M19b) sub-communities are present. 

The steeper slopes are essentially acid grassland dominated by {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Juncus squarrosus} (U5, U6). There are occasional pockets of bracken forming the {\it Pteridium aquilinum-Galium saxatile} community (U20). 

Throughout the area {\it Juncus effusus} flushes (M6c) occur with occasional {\it Sphagnum} lawns (M6b) at their heads. There is a stand of {\it Carex rostrata - Sphagnum recurvum} mire (M4) which lies in a hollow below Coldbergh Scar. 

There is no emergent vegetation in Birkdale Tarn although the surrounding mire has {\it Sphagnum recurvum} bog pools (M2b).

The habitat information for the area to the south-west of Birk Dale is based on the Phase 1 survey. This survey indicates that this section supports dry modified bog in contrast to the blanket bog on the section to the north-east. The Phase 1 habitat information also confirms this, {\it Sphagnum} appearing frequently as a dominant species on the section to the north-east, but not on the section to the south-west and this is also consistent with the survey information for the adjoining Cumbrian commons (CLs 93, 95, 103, 121).

Birkdale Common forms a large part of the Mallerstang-Swaledale Head SSSI. The SSSI is outstanding as an extensive block of upland habitats, many of which are of high quality, including limestone grassland, gritstone cliff, dwarf shrub heath, acidic grassland and a wide range of mire systems, in particular ombrogenous blanket bog and flushed soligenous mires. These habitats support important populations of upland breeding birds. The maintenance of this nature conservation interest is dependent upon appropriate levels of grazing and burning and cessation of artificial drainage.

The majority of the land on Mallerstang Common and in North Yorkshire supports a mixture of acidophilous vegetation developed on a variety of substrates.

Blanket bog occurs extensively on peat on the gentle slopes and summit plateaux with an altitudinal range from 400 to 700 metres. {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} is ubiquitous, with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} particularly at higher levels. A richer bog vegetation occurs where grazing is less intense: in such areas {\it Calluna vulgaris} is often frequent and may dominate where burning has been carried out to promote its growth. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} also occurs widely. Where the peat is sufficiently wet the richest bog vegetation persists: species present include {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos, Narthecium ossifragum, Erica tetralix}, a number of Sphagna and, rarely, {\it Drosera rotundifolia}. On summits the peat mantle is often eroded to form haggs. {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} is a colonist of bare peat here. Where erosion is most extreme as at Lodge Haggs, species such as {\it Polytrichum juniperinum} recolonises bare mineral substrates.

Areas of thin peat or mineral soil where grazing has been light support dry heath vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. Lodge Edge is one of the largest such areas in northern England. Along this summit ridge the dwarf-shrubs show a prostrate, wind-pruned form due to extreme exposure.

On Pickersett and Hood Rigg (CL156) a different type of heath characterised by {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Deschampsia flexuosa} is unusual in having an abundance of lichens {\it Cladonia} spp. {\it Calluna vulgaris/Vaccinium myrtillus} heath is most luxuriant where it occurs on steep gill sides subject to only light grazing and no burning. In these situations {\it Vaccinium vitis-idaea} can occur and some gills have scattered trees of {\it Sorbus aucuparia, Betula pubescens, Populus tremula} and at one site, {\it Juniperus communis}.

The lower slopes of Birkdale (CL149), Great Sleddale (CL152) and Mallerstang (CL93 Cumbria) and Thwaite Commons (CL156) tend to have been hardest grazed giving rise to acidic grasslands. These areas are characterised by species such as {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Acidic grassland is also found on some of the highest tops: at High Seat (NY 802 013, 709 m) occurs {\it Carex bigelowii}, a northern montane species rare in the Pennines. 

Throughout the areas of blanket bog and acidic grassland there are flushes giving rise to soligenous mire. These frequently are characterised by {\it Carex echinata} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. A particularly species-rich example occurs at Green Springs (SD 874 978?, CL156?). Other flushes typically include Sphagna, {\it Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus, Carex nigra, C. rostrata} and {\it Viola palustris} (SSSI citation).

MANAGE:
Drains were evident on the moor to the south-west of Birk Dale.

The following information is reproduced from the Survey of Upland Habitats in the North Pennines relating to the area to the north-east of Birk Dale:

The area (together with CL151 and Round Hill/Ravenseat Moor to the east) forms part of the Gunnerside Estate Grouse Shoot. The heather is burned in small and, occasionally, large patches, although it only reaches an average height of between 15 and 30cm. The area has been gripped. Sheep graze the area and supplementary food is provided in the winter. The condition of the heather is variable. The high ground retains about 50 per cent cover of heather in good condition. Grazing and hence suppressed heather is concentrated along the Kirkby Stephen Road (CL149?) as well as on the gill sides.


VEG:
This common was not visited for the purposes of this survey as it had been covered by the Phase 1 survey and also lies within the Mallerstang-Swaledale Head SSSI. The habitat map is based on the Phase 1 survey and the following information is reproduced from the SSSI citation.

Mallerstang-Swaledale Head is outstanding as an extensive block of upland habitats, many of which are of high quality, including limestone grassland, gritstone cliff, dwarf shrub heath, acidic grassland and a wide range of mire systems, in particular ombrogenous blanket bog and flushed soligenous mires. These habitats support important populations of upland breeding birds. The maintenance of this nature conservation interest is dependent upon appropriate levels of grazing and burning and cessation of artificial drainage.

The majority of the land on Mallerstang Common and in North Yorkshire supports a mixture of acidophilous vegetation developed on a variety of substrates.

Blanket bog occurs extensively on peat on the gentle slopes and summit plateaux with an altitudinal range from 400 to 700 metres. {\it Eriophorum vaginatum} is ubiquitous, with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum} particularly at higher levels. A richer bog vegetation occurs where grazing is less intense. In such areas {\it Calluna vulgaris} is often frequent and may dominate where burning has been carried out to promote its growth. {\it Rubus chamaemorus} also occurs widely. Where the peat is sufficiently wet the richest bog vegetation persists. Species present include {\it Vaccinium oxycoccos, Narthecium ossifragum, Erica tetralix}, a number of Sphagna and rarely, {\it Drosera rotundifolia}. On summits the peat mantle is often eroded to form haggs. {\it Eriophorum angustifolium} is a colonist of bare peat here. Where erosion is most extreme as at Lodge Haggs (CL149), species such as {\it Polytrichum juniperinum} recolonise bare mineral substrates.

Areas of thin peat or mineral soil where grazing has been light support dry heath vegetation dominated by {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} and {\it Empetrum nigrum}. Lodge Edge (CL149) is one of the largest such areas in northern England*. Along this summit ridge the dwarf-shrubs show a prostrate, wind-pruned form due to extreme exposure.

The lower slopes of Birkdale (CL149), Great Sleddale (CL152) and Mallerstang (CL93, Cumbria) and Thwaite Commons (CL156) tend to have been hardest grazed giving rise to acidic grasslands. These areas are characterised by species such as {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Galium saxatile}. Acidic grassland is also found on some of the highest tops: at High Seat (709 m) occurs {\it Carex bigelowii}, a northern montane species rare in the Pennines. 

Throughout the areas of blanket bog and acidic grassland there are flushes giving rise to soligenous mire. These frequently are characterised by {\it Carex echinata} and {\it Sphagnum recurvum}. A particularly species-rich example of this habitat type occurs at Green Springs (SD 874 978?, CL156?). Other flushes typically include Sphagna, {\it Juncus acutiflorus, J. effusus, Carex nigra, C. rostrata} and {\it Viola palustris}. On Shunner (CLs 17, 152 and 156) are flushes rich in mosses such as {\it Cratoneuron commutatum} and {\it C. fillicinum}; these are the southernmost locations in Britain for the nationally rare {\it Saxifraga hirculus}.

*There is no area of dry heath vegetation marked on the Phase 1 survey map of the SSSI in this area.

MANAGE:
No information was collated on the management of this common but see under the entry for CL149 which adjoins this common. The SSSI citation refers to Great Sleddale as being one of the areas that have been hardest grazed giving rise to acidic grasslands.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Curlews. Pipits.

VEG:
From surveyor's brief notes:

In the eastern half there are several hillocks up to 15m. high which are part of old mine workings. They are covered with {\it Nardus stricta}. The area nearest the gate by the Green Lane appears to be {\it Nardus stricta}-dominated grassland but there is a high proportion of short-grazed {\it Molinia caerulea}. Other species present include {\it Potentilla erecta, Polygala serpyllifolia, Galium saxatile, Juncus squarrosus} and very short {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. On the South side of Grysdale Beck a more tussocky area of {\it M. caerulea} with {\it Sphagnum} spp. {\it Aulacomnium palustre, Juncus effusus, Potamogeton polygonifolius, Carex echinata, Erica tetralix,}(in {\it Molinia} tussocks),{\it Carex panicea}.

There are more extensive areas of {\it Calluna vulgaris} visible towards the NW. The south-eastern parts south of 'Sheepfold' are mostly wet heath with species such as {\it M. caerulea, V. myrtillus, C. vulgaris, Trichophorum cespitosum, Leucobryum glaucum, Drosera rotundifolia, Carex panicea, Sphagnum subnatans, Carex echinata, Pinguicula vulgaris} present.

MANAGE:
Managed for sheep grazing and as grouse moor.


VEG:
This common was not visited on foot. The English Nature Phase 1 survey (1985) target notes state that the area is an 'interesting area of wet bog. There is a fair amount of erosion with low hags throughout but this makes a good diverse habitat with many damp patches in the bottoms of the hags ({\it Sphagnum papillosum} is locally abundant. In the deeper peat is a fairly diverse {\it Calluna/Eriophorum} community with {\it Narthecium ossifragum}.'


VEG:
Brief field survey notes: There is extensive tussocky bog with {\it Eriophorum vaginatum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Molinia caerulea, Polytrichum alpestre, Aulacomnium} sp. The flushes near streams, which include {\it Juncus effusus, Sphagnum} spp. are fringed by {\it Eriophorum angustifolium}. There is some peat hagging by drier bog areas east of the flushes. Here there is occasional {\it Sphagnum papillosum} and {\it Vaccinium oxycoccus, Vaccinium myrtillus}. There is bedrock exposure along the northern boundary.

MANAGE:
No noted active management. Evidence of past peat digging on a small scale.


VEG:
The Millstone Grit exposures support {\it Dryopteris dilitata, Calluna vulgaris, Blechnum spicant}. The large fallen blocks are surrounded by {\it P. aquilinum}. Other small areas have {\it Nardus stricta, Molinia caerulea, Juncus squarrosus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Vaccinium myrtillus, Potentilla erecta, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus} and much dense {\it Pteridium aquilinum}.


FAUNA:
Birds seen during survey: Jackdaw, Red Grouse, Curlew.

VEG:
Most of this common appears to wet heath {\it Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} with {\it Trichophorum cespitosum, Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Agrostis capillaris} along tracks. {\it Erica tetralix} is more frequent downslope. Some areas have been burnt and here {\it Molinia caerulea} is regenerating. The {\it Calluna vulgaris} in unburnt areas varies - some parts 90-98 per cent and others 60-70 per cent interspersed with tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea}. Occasional wetter areas are {\it Juncus effusus} flushes with {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Sphagnum} spp.,{\it Polytrichum alpinum}.

Boss Moor Quarries: There are scattered {\it C. vulgaris} plants on rock faces otherwise there is {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris} grassland with scattered clumps of {\it Juncus effusus} in the bottom of the quarry.


VEG:
The upper (western) part is of acidic marshy grassland with {\it Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta} and {\it Festuca rubra}. This grades into wet modified bog downslope with {\it Carex panicea, Sphagnum palustre, Carex pulicaris, Aulacomnium palustre, Juncus squarrosus, Molinia caerulea}. There are flushes with {\it Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum cespitosum}.

MANAGE:
Evidence of old drainage ditches. No information about grazing.


FAUNA:
The following birds were noted: Blackbird, Blue Tit, House sparrow, Pheasant, Robin, Song Thrush.

VEG:
The woodland canopy is composed of mature standard {\it Quercus robur} and 
{\it Fraxinus excelsior}, with locally frequent {\it Acer pseudoplatanus}. There is very little tree regeneration due to heavy sheep grazing. The 
understorey consists of scattered {\it Corylus avellana} with occasional 
{\it Crataegus monogyna}.

The ground flora is an almost continuous carpet of {\it Allium ursinum}, 
with scattered patches of {\it Mercuralis perennis} and {\it Ranunculus ficaria}. Other species include locally frequent {\it Potentilla sterilis, Geum urbanum, Filipendula ulmaria, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Conopodium 
majus, Deschampsia cespitosa} and {\it Thuidium tamariscinum}, plus 
occasional {\it Pteridium aquilinum, Viola riviniana} and {\it Dactylorhiza fuchsii}. {\it Hypnum mammilatum} is frequent on tree trunks. Along the lower edge of the canopy, there are dense stands of {\it Cirsium arvense} and {\it Urtica dioica}. There is a narrow strip of improved grassland between the canopy and the NE boundary.

MANAGE:
Livestock has access from surrounding land through gaps in the dry stone walls. Pens for rearing pheasants have been constructed in the lower half of the common.


VEG:
Most of this common is wet heath with abundant {\it Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris, Trichophorum cespitosum, Vaccinium myrtillus, Empetrum nigrum}. Former quarry areas are now dry heath of {\it Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus} with small patches of {\it Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile} with {\it Juncus squarrosus} along paths. The {\it C. vulgaris} is of fairly even low growth.

MANAGE:
Surveyor reports 'looks ungrazed at the time of survey'.


VEG:
This common is mostly wet heath. The cover of {\it Calluna vulgaris} varies from 90-100 per cent to as low as 25 per cent. Some parts are more heavily grazed than others. There is occasional {\it Ulex europaeus} along the tracks.  Other species present include frequent {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Molinia caerulea, Succisa pratensis, Achillea ptarmica, Briza media, Juncus effusus, Centaurea nigra, Cirsium palustre, Lotus pedunculatus}.

The parts to the south of High Barn were not surveyed.


VEG:
Viewed from road only.  On lowest ground there is a large {\it Juncus effusus}-dominated flush with some valley mire. Lower slopes appear to have been mined - hillocks and hollows evident. Higher up the slope there is {\it Nardus stricta/Molinia caerulea} dominated marshy grassland with {\it J. effusus} flushes and areas of {\it Nardus stricta} and {\it Juncus squarrosus}-dominated acid grassland. There are occasional stunted wind-blown bushes of {\it Crataegus monogyna}.


VEG:
This common is of sheep-grazed calcareous grassland with much exposed rock of limestone pavement. Species present in the grasslands include abundant {\it Danthonia decumbens}, frequent {\it Briza media, Agrostis capillaris, Cynosurus cristatus}. Also included are {\it Potentilla erecta, Galium verum, Trifolium repens, Linum catharticum, Prunella vulgaris, Euphrasia} agg., {\it Campanula rotundifolia, Potentilla sterilis, Deschampsia cespitosa}. On lower ground there is {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Conopodium majus, Succisa pratensis}.

Grikes in the limestone pavement support {\it Asplenium viride, Asplenium trichomanes, Asplenium ruta-muraria, Geranium robertianum, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Anenome nemorosa, Oxalis acetosella, Sanicula europaea, Allium ursinum, Cryptogramma crispa}. Near rock outcrops {\it Carex panicea, Pilosella officinarum, Helianthemum nummularium}.

In drier areas, often around rock outcrops are found {\it Pimpinella saxifraga, Polystichum} sp. {\it Mercurialis perennis, Thalictrium minus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis capillaris, Achillea millefolium}.

The EN Phase 1 survey records an area of {\it Nardus stricta} acid grassland in the NE parts of this site.


FAUNA:
The following were noted: Blackbird, House Sparrow, Jackdaw, Rabbit. 
Large White, Meadow Brown and Small Copper butterflies were also seen.

VEG:
The acid grassland is dominated by {\it Festuca ovina}, with locally 
abundant {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris, Juncus squarrosus, 
Galium saxatile} and {\it Potentilla erecta}. There are occasional, 
scattered patches of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus} in the central area of the common.                                            
  
The acid grassland grades into the semi-improved neutral grassland 
with occupies the rest of the common. This is mostly dominated by 
{\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Cynosurus cristatus} and {\it Holcus lanatus}, with frequent {\it Achillea millefolium, Bellis perennis, Centaurea nigra, 
Conopodium majus, Leucanthemum vulgare, Lotus corniculatus, Ranunculus 
acris, Ranunculus repens} and {\it Rumex acetosa}. On lower, wetter ground, 
{\it Deschampsia cespitosa} is dominant, and in addition to the herb species 
mentioned, these areas also contain frequent {\it Carex hirta, Carex 
ovalis, Cardamine pratensis, Lotus pendunculatus} and {\it Potentilla 
anserina}, plus occasional {\it Carex panicea, Achillea ptarmica, Cardamine 
pratensis, Lychnis flos-cuculi} and {\it Mentha aquatica}.

Along Cold Cotes Beck and Waste Beck, there are discontinuous stands 
of {\it Juncus effusus}, with frequent {\it Carex hirta, Juncus inflexus, 
Angelica sylvestris, Cardamine pratensis, Cirsium palustre, Galium 
cruciata, Glyceria fluitans, Filipendula ulmaria, Mentha aquatica} and 
{\it Veronica beccabunga}, plus occasional {\it Angelica sylvestris, Briza media, Caltha palustris} and {\it Eupatorium cannabinum}.

MANAGE:
Used for cattle grazing. Enclosed by dry stone walls.


VEG:
Most of the eastern section is wet heath/acidic grassland mosaic with tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea, Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta} and v. short carpet {\it Calluna ulgaris} and {\it Vaccinium myrtillus}. There is not enough cover to record as wet heath but it has the potential to develop into this if the grazing pressure is reduced. There is occasional {\it Erica tetralix, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus}. The tops of small ridges have dry heath. There are occasional clumps of {\it Juncus effusus}.

Along the northern boundary there is an elevated area extending 40 to 100m from the boundary wall. Species here include {\it Calluna vulgaris, Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Vaccinium myrtillus}. This dry heath has a very short carpet of {\it Calluna vulgaris} and {\it V. myrtillus}. Along the edge of this area there are weathered outcrops of millstone grit. Dry heath and acid grassland lower down the slope gives way to {\it Molinia caerulea} on gently undulating ground. Drainage channels  (about 15m. apart) lead to Hamerton Hill Syke. Tussocky {\it Molinia caerulea} is dominant with {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Juncus squarrosus, Vaccinium myrtillus, Galium saxatile, Polygala serpyllifolia}.

There are patches of {\it Nardus stricta, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum} and {\it Juncus effusus} with some {\it Crataegus monogyna} bushes along the streamside. There are some small {\it Carex panicea} flushes with {\it Briza media, Pinguicula vulgaris, Viola} sp.,{\it Euphrasia} agg., {\it Carex otrubae?}. {\it Narthecium ossifragum} is locally frequent and very short. {\it Sphagnum} spp. present include { S. palustre, S. papillosum, S. auriculatum}.

The Northern half of the common was not surveyed on foot but appears to be continuous {\it Calluna vulgaris}. Some areas have been burnt. Grouse butts present. Lower ground supports much {\it M. caerulea, Calluna vulgaris}.

MANAGE:
Managed for sheep grazing and grouse. Some areas have been burnt.


FAUNA:
The following were noted: Meadow Brown, Large White, Small Tortoiseshell, and Small Blue butterflies. Several Rabbits.

VEG:
The grassland around the quarry is dominated by rank grasses with locally 
frequent {\it Anthoxanthum odoratum, Briza media, Dactylis glomerata} (near road), {\it Deschampsia cespitosa, Festuca ovina, Achillea millefolium, Conopodium majus, Galium cruciata, G. verum, Linum catharticum, Lotus corniculatus, Primula vulgaris, Thymus} sp. and {\it Veronica chamaedrys}, plus occasional {\it Galium saxatile, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, Listera ovata} and {\it Viola} sp.  

Exposed limestone faces in the quarry support occasional {\it Calluna 
vulgaris, Thymus} sp., {\it Vaccinium myrtillus, Asplenium trichomanes}.

At the base of the main rock face, there is an area of compacted 
limestone aggregate which is gradually being colonized from the edges 
by {\it Arrhenatherum elatius} and {\it Urtica dioica}, with patchy {\it Briza media, Glechoma hederacea, Leucanthemum vulgare, Linum catharticum, Stachys sylvatica, Geranium molle, G. robertianum} and {\it G. sylvaticum}, plus occasional {\it Arum maculatum, Carex panicea}, and {\it Vicia sativa}.

MANAGE:
Appears to be ungrazed. Enclosed by dry stone walls on three sides. There is no boundary wall along the road.


VEG:
This common is mostly sheep-grazed grassland with substantial {\it Nardus stricta, Juncus squarrosus} with flushes of {\it Juncus effusus} on lower ground. There are small areas of dry bog including {\it Eriophorum vaginatum, Juncus squarrosus, Nardus stricta, Deschampsia flexuosa, Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta}. There are occasional exposures of millstone grit.

MANAGE:
No active management other than sheep grazing.


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

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

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

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

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

From surveyors' notes: Species noted: {\it Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Daucus carota, Vaccinium myrtillus, Luzula campestris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Agrostis capillaris, Pilosella officinarum, Danthonia decumbens}.


