This is a community initiated project to research the history of land use in the area, investigate the links between people and landscape throughout history; evaluate the condition of key habits in the cultural landscape, take practical steps to enhance the natural heritage of the habitats.The group will focus on locally and nationally important habitats such as Woodland, Unimproved grassland, Upland heath and Blanket bog. These habitats are the result of continual interaction between the landscape and people living in and off it. Many sites are threatened by lack of, or inappropriate management. The sites are listed in national and local Biodiversity Action Plans.
The objectives of the project are to tap into and preserve local knowledge related to traditional land management, educate people about local land use history, about the value of various habitats and benefits of proper management. To use locally existing skills and to train people in survey skills, GIS use and Recorder database input and to identify and evaluate areas of value.
The group have a clear plan to involve local people through events, training, a temporary exhibition and theatre production. The project will produce 8 outline management plans for key habits.
