More than just a heath
The Suffolk Sandlings Living Landscape project
Location: Sandlings, Suffolk
The Assignment Phototeam
What will 2020VISION be doing?
On our first visit in winter we'll be concentrating on aspects of the management work and talking to the people involved with the project. The team will return in spring to captue some of the classic heathland birds and again in late summer for the spectacular displays of flowering heather.
When will 2020VISION be there?
- 21st to 22nd February 2011
- 15th to 17th August 2011
Where is it?
The Sandlings comprise of 42 fragmented lowland heaths along the Suffolk coast, the largest areas are at Minsmere and Walberswick.
Why is it important?
Lowland heath is an internationally threatened habitat of which 20% is found within the UK and is an important habitat for a wide range of specialist wildlife. Over 90% of the once extensive Sandlings heaths have been lost to agriculture, military, forestry and housing, which emphasises the need to conserve and enhance what remains.
What's the project's aim?
The project aims to re-create heathland habitats from land previously lost to forestry and farmland thereby joining up isolated heathland patches and creating a more robust habitat for birds such as Dartford warbler which have recently re-established. Other species that benefit from this partnership working include silver-studded blue butterfly and adder.
Who's involved?
Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Coastal District Council, Natural England, RSPB, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Forestry Commission, National Trust, Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, funding partners and local landowners.
What's happening there?
Managing existing heaths to halt succession to woodland and heather management to create a patchwork of heather of different ages – this includes the creation of bare ground which is much needed by a number of the invertebrates. The Government’s Environmental Stewardship scheme is a key to ensuring that this work is adequately funded, monitored and promoted with regard the landowner, the habitat and its supporting wildlife, and to the public who are free to enjoy the enhanced landscape and access.
Find out more
http://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/living-landscapes/sandlings-heaths-and-forests
http://www.suffolkcoastandheaths.org/text.asp?PageId=48
