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The National Trust. Natura 2000 UK 2006. Moorland Habitats A National Trust Perspective. The National Trust protects;. 250,000 hectares of countryside 960 kilometres of coastline 9% of SSSI’s contain Trust land 86 SAC’s contain Trust land (209 total E,W&NI)
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The National Trust Natura 2000 UK 2006 Moorland Habitats A National Trust Perspective
The National Trust protects; • 250,000 hectares of countryside • 960 kilometres of coastline • 9% of SSSI’s contain Trust land • 86 SAC’s contain Trust land (209 total E,W&NI) • 26 SPA’s contain Trust land (95 total)
South Pennine Moors SAC • 64,983ha • One of 229 in UK • South Pennine Moors SPA • One of 77 in England • For; Short eared owl • Merlin • Golden plover • Internationally significant populations of breeding birds
Blanket bogs- A vast carbon store
Managed grouse moors contain 46 other bird species 5 times more waders than unmanaged moors
Why do we need healthy moorlands? • Landscape • Carbon store • Water retention • Erosion protection • Recreation/Sport • Rare plants and other species • Bird habitats
Historical management for game has maintained the habitat • Predator control by keepers has benefited all moorland species • Control of sheep numbers has benefited the habitat • Monitoring has identified weaknesses in diversity of some habitats • Changes in current practices have been called for to try and correct this • Can a balance be found between sustainable shooting and changed • conservation management requirements? • Without any management, other than grazing, bird species will decline • If shooting ceases, can sustainable funding for predator control etc • be found?
Hen harriers reared 10 chicks from 2 nests In 2006. Only the second time in the Peak District since 1869. All partners on the moor were involved in a protection scheme. Is this the future?
Can a sustainable balance be found without • adverse effects on other important species • for example the waders?
The Future • Realistic goals • Partnership • Understanding and respect