Heathland habitats have been in acute decline in the UK. Golf courses are one of the few land uses where this valuable habitat can be maintained and promoted with appropriate management. This class will look at what constitutes heathland and its principle components. Renowned ecologist Bob Taylor will contrast lowland coastal and upland heath, as well as determine management requirements for conservation while not losing sight of the playing of the game. The class will look at various management techniques for establishing, maintaining and managing heathland, highlighting cost-effective methods and promoting heathlands as areas not only beneficial to wildlife but also to enhancing the prestige of the golf club.
Learning outcomes:
- What constitutes heath – coastal, lowland, upland, blanket and raised
- The vegetation components influenced by soil and other factors
- Best management practices for heathland
- Techniques for establishing heathland
- Maintaining and managing heathland
- Understanding and promoting wildlife benefits of heathlands
- The effects of no management and the costs associated with heath management
Presented by:
