Applied Lowland Heathland Restoration and Management

This course comprises of an online session followed by in-person training at Bucklebury, Reading.

Session 1: Online learning with discussion and quizzes: The formation, history and cultural value of heathlands. How English heathlands are protected. Environmental factors which influence their ecology. Ecological processes which impact the heathland biota. The elements of a heathland landscape. Heathland species and their ecological requirements. Threats to heathlands. Heathland condition assessment. An introduction to the restoration and management of heathlands Session 2: Field trip to West Berkshire heathland with group discussions and practical examples. Introduction to species identification Identification of positive and negative features of a heathland site. Practical application of vegetation management. Heathland restoration from secondary woodland, with discussion about other scenarios. Management planning and project management

This course is suitable for Land Managers, BNG providers, Land Advisors, eNGO and LA site managers

Beginner - Intermediate

Some knowledge of ecological principles would be useful

• Understand the formation, history and historical uses of heathlands
• Troubleshoot the constraints and frequent difficulties of manging heathlands
• Recognise some of the common heathland species and understand their ecological requirements
• Identify best-practise techniques for managing heathland to benefit a variety of species.
• Create a basic restoration or management plan for a heathland site