Positive Action for Heather Moorland

Heather at GrassleesHeather moorland has developed over thousands of years as humans cleared ancient woodlands and introduced cattle and sheep. Heavy grazing with many sheep means that new heather does not get a chance to grow and eventually moorland grasses begin to dominate. Farmers are now being encouraged to reduce sheep numbers on hillsides, so that the heather can recover.

If you see a small area of heather moorland on fire, don't worry - it's probably deliberate! Burning small areas at different times produces a mosaic of young and old heather plants, which provides food, shelter and nesting areas for grouse. Sheep also like the tender shoots that grow back after the fire. The National Park Authority is working with landowners to make sure sensitive places are not burnt and heather is not burnt too often. Take care in dry weather as accidental fires can cause damage over large areas.

The quality of moorland is also being improved and diversified to encompass new broadleaved woodland and wetlands as well as heather cover and condition. This helps many species, including the rare black grouse.