Management of Semi-Natural Blanket Bog in the Northern Pennines

SUMMARY Eriophorum vaginatum, with an increase in lichen growth. (3) After burning there was an intermediate period of E. vaginatum dominance followed by regrowth of Calluna to form an uneven-aged stand, either alone or in combination with Eriophorum vaginatum and Sphagnum spp. (4) The effects of short (10-yr) and long (20-yr) rotation burning were investigated. Calluna regeneration from seed and by vegetative regrowth was greater in the short rotation plots, and Rubus chamaemorus was considerably more abundant when short rotation burning was combined with removal of grazing. Increased grazing pressure allowed Eriophorum vaginatum to gain dominance at the expense of the dwarf shrubs, and considerably reduced lichen cover. (5) The consequences of these results are discussed with reference to long-term management, and it is concluded that light grazing by sheep, without burning, is likely to be an acceptable management in the interests of conservation.