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North Lowther Energy Initiative

National Vegetation Classification Survey Report

Technical Appendix 8.1

Prepared by: Brian Henry MCIEEM

Authorised by: Rafe Dewar MCIEEM Date: 21 September 2016 Tel: 0141 342 5404 Email: [email protected] Web: www.macarthurgreen.com Address: 95 South Woodside Road | Glasgow | G20 6NT

Document Quality Record

Version Status Person Responsible Date

1 Draft Brian Henry 19/09/2016

2 Reviewed Rafe Dewar 21/09/2016

3 Updated Brian Henry 21/09/2016

4 Internal Approval Brian Henry 08/03/2017

5 Final Client Approval

mailto:[email protected]://www.macarthurgreen.com/

CONTENTS

Executive Summary ................................................................................................................................. 1

1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 1

2 The Development Area and Study Area .......................................................................................... 1

3 Methodology ................................................................................................................................... 1

4 Survey Dates & Constraints ............................................................................................................ 2

5 NVC Survey Results and Vegetation Descriptions........................................................................... 2

5.1 Summary of NVC Communities ............................................................................................... 2

5.2 Mires and Flushes ................................................................................................................... 3

5.3 Wet Heaths ............................................................................................................................. 6

5.4 Springs ..................................................................................................................................... 7

5.5 Dry Heaths ............................................................................................................................... 7

5.6 Calcifugous Grasslands and bracken-dominated vegetation.................................................. 9

5.7 Mesotrophic Grasslands ....................................................................................................... 10

5.8 Calcicolous Grasslands .......................................................................................................... 12

5.9 Woodland and Scrub ............................................................................................................. 12

5.10 Swamps and Tall-Herb Fens .................................................................................................. 14

5.11 Vegetation of Open Habitats ................................................................................................ 14

5.12 Non-NVC Communities & Categories ................................................................................... 14

5.13 Notable Species ..................................................................................................................... 15

6 Evaluation of Botanical Interest .................................................................................................... 15

6.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................... 15

6.2 Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GWDTE) ................................................. 15

6.3 Annex I Habitats .................................................................................................................... 16

6.4 Scottish Biodiversity List Priority Habitats ............................................................................ 17

6.5 Summary ............................................................................................................................... 18

7 Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 18

Glossary ................................................................................................................................................. 19

References ............................................................................................................................................ 20

LIST OF TABLES

Table 6-1 Communities within the study area which may potentially be classified as GWDTE ............................... 15

Table 6-2 NVC Communities Recorded within the study area and Corresponding Annex I Habitat Types ............. 16

Table 6-3 Summary of study area NVC communities and sensitivities .................................................................... 18

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 8.2 NVC Survey Results

Figure 8.3 Potential Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GWDTE) Results

Figure 8.4 Annex I Habitat Survey Results

North Lowther Energy Initiative: NVC Survey Report

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

MacArthur Green was commissioned by NLEI Ltd to conduct and report on National Vegetation Classification

(NVC) habitat surveys at the proposed North Lowther Energy Initiative (hereafter referred to as the

‘Development’).

The aim of the NVC survey is to identify and map the vegetation communities present surrounding proposed

infrastructure within the Development Area in order to identify those areas of greatest ecological interest (i.e.

Habitats Directive Annex I habitats, Scottish Biodiversity List (SBL) priority habitats and potential Groundwater

Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GWDTE). This information is used to inform the windfarm design process and

the ecological assessment for the Environmental Statement.

The Development Area covers a large area of ground in the North Lowther Hills. Surveys were conducted over 41

surveyor days in 2015 and 2016. In total 39 recognised NVC communities were recorded within the Development

Area, along with various associated sub-communities; however, a relatively small number of communities

account for the majority of the Development Area. The most common and widespread communities, making up

the bulk of the landscape, are M25 Molinia caerulea – Potentilla erecta mire, M20 Eriophorum vaginatum

blanket mire, M19 Calluna vulgaris – Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire, M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus –

Galium palustre rush-pasture, H12 Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus heath, MG10 Holcus lanatus – Juncus

effusus rush-pasture, U4 Festuca ovina – Agrostis capillaris – Galium saxatile grassland, U5 Nardus stricta –

Galium saxatile grassland and U6 Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina grassland. These communities also form

mosaics with each other as well as with a number of other less well represented and fragmentary mire,

grassland and heath communities. Areas of semi-natural woodland are scarce within the Development Area and

are mainly restricted to small fragments, often within gullies or near watercourses.

The variation in vegetation communities and composition over such a large area reflects changes in soil and

substrate type, soil moisture as well as anthropogenic influences on the vegetation (e.g. muir burning, grazing

and drainage). Many areas are underlain by peat of various depths and this is reflected in the presence of the

true bog communities and wet heath. The majority of the Development Area contains a characteristically

acidophilous flora given its wet upland setting, however many of the less elevated areas tend towards a more

neutral (and also wet) species assemblage highlighted by the abundance of rush-pastures present. Calcareous

influences are very scarce but do exist and appear as small fragments of CG10 Festuca ovina – Agrostis capillaris

– Thymus polytrichus grassland. Flushes are scattered throughout the Development Area and the majority are of

the M6 Carex echinata – Sphagnum fallax/denticulatum mire community. Spring features are rare but there is a

small number of M32 Philonotis fontana – Saxifraga stellaris springs present.

The NVC survey results have also been compared to a number of sensitivity classifications, indicating the

presence of Annex I, SBL and potential GWDTE habitats within the Development Area.

The classification of GWDTEs in this survey has been based on habitat composition and is used to inform an

assessment of effects on the habitat. It does not provide a conclusion as to whether the habitats are truly

groundwater dependent or are more likely to be fed by surface water.

1 INTRODUCTION

MacArthur Green was commissioned by NLEI Ltd to carry out a National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey at

the proposed North Lowther Energy Initiative Windfarm (hereafter referred to as the ‘Development’).

The aim of the NVC survey is to identify and map the vegetation communities present at the Development in

order to identify those areas of greatest ecological interest (i.e. Habitats Directive Annex I habitats1 , Scottish

Biodiversity List (SBL) priority habitats and potential Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems (GWDTE)2.

This information is used to inform the windfarm design process and the ecological assessment for the

Environmental Statement.

This report details the findings of the NVC surveys together with an evaluation of those communities described.

2 THE DEVELOPMENT AREA AND STUDY AREA

The Development Area encompasses the area within the red line boundary (Figure 8.1). The area covered by the

NVC surveys does not cover the full Development Area (but covers all proposed infrastructure locations), and

also encompasses some areas outwith the Development Area; therefore the area covered by the NVC surveys is

hereafter termed the ‘study area’.

The majority of the study area supports open moorland and rough grazing pasture with relatively steep-sided

cleuchs and associated plateaus. It is interspersed with some blocks of conifer plantation in the west. Several of

the remaining forestry plantation blocks have been recently clear-felled, and others have been recently

replanted or support young immature forestry. The study area undulates greatly with many large rounded hills

and intervening valleys, the ground elevation ranges mostly from around 250m to 540m with some lower areas

and a few higher hills, the highest being Stood Hill at an elevation of 587m in the eastern extent of the study

area near Wanlockhead. The study area is drained by a number of minor watercourses and burns which

discharge into much larger watercourses around the edges of the Development Area.

Land use within the study area is dominated by open hill sheep grazing and grouse moor management, including

rotational muir burning.

3 METHODOLOGY

The vegetation was surveyed by two suitably qualified and experienced botanical surveyors using the NVC

scheme (Rodwell, 1991-2000; 5 volumes) and in accordance with NVC survey guidelines (Rodwell, 2006). The

NVC Survey covered an area that extended up to 250m from the proposed turbine locations and 100m from

proposed access tracks within the Development Area. The NVC scheme provides a standardised system for

1 As defined by the Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora – the ‘Habitats

Directive’ 2 As defined within SEPA (2014). Guidance Note 31: Guidance on Assessing the Impacts of Windfarm Development Proposals on

Groundwater Abstractions and Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystems. Available for download from http://www.sepa.org.uk/media/143868/lupsgu31_planning_guidance_on_groundwater_abstractions.pdf.

http://www.sepa.org.uk/media/143868/lupsgu31_planning_guidance_on_groundwater_abstractions.pdf


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classifying and mapping semi-natural habitats, and ensures that surveys are carried out to a consistent level of

detail and accuracy.

Homogenous stands and mosaics of vegetation were identified and mapped by eye, and drawn as polygons on

high resolution aerial imagery field maps (i.e. 1: 5,000 @A3 using orthoimagery). These polygons were surveyed

qualitatively to record dominant and constant species, sub-dominant species and other notable species present.

The surveyors worked progressively across the study area to ensure that no areas were missed and that mapping

was accurate. NVC communities were attributed to the mapped polygons using surveyor experience and

matching field data against published floristic tables (Rodwell, 1991-2000). Stands were classified to sub-

community level where possible, although in many cases the vegetation was mapped to community level only

because the vegetation was too species-poor or patches were too small to allow meaningful sub-community

determination; or because some areas exhibited features or fine-scale patterns of two or more sub-

communities.

Quadrat sampling was not used in this survey because experienced NVC surveyors do not necessarily need to

record quadrats in order to reliably identify NVC communities and sub-communities (Rodwell, 2006). Notes were

made about the structure and flora of larger areas of vegetation in many places (such as the abundance and

frequency of species, and in some cases condition and evident anthropogenic impacts). It can be better to record

several larger scale qualitative samples than one or two smaller quantitative samples; furthermore, qualitative

information from several sample locations can be vital for understanding the dynamics and trends in local (study

area) vegetation patterns (Rodwell, 2006).

Due to small scale vegetation and habitat variability and numerous zones of habitat transitional between similar

NVC communities, many polygons represent complex mosaics of two or more NVC communities. Where

polygons have been mapped as mosaics an approximate percentage cover of each NVC community within the

polygon is given so that the dominant community and character of the vegetation could still be ascertained.

Botanical nomenclature in this report follows that of Stace (2010) for vascular plants and Atherton et al (2010)

for bryophytes.

4 SURVEY DATES & CONSTRAINTS

The NVC survey of the study area was carried out over 41 surveyor days on the following dates inclusive:

10th - 14th August 2015;

31st August 2015;

1st – 4th September 2015;

17th – 18th September 2015;

7th – 8th October 2015;

4th – 8th July 2016;

27th July 2016;

15th August 2016;

1st September 2016; and

5th September 2016.

The surveys were carried out at appropriate times of year for mapping vegetation. The weather conditions were

generally amenable to survey; often bright, with broken cloud and relatively light to moderate winds, and with

infrequent light showers. All parts of the study area were accessible except for a few very steep sections;

however, these were easily surveyed from nearby suitable vantage points and surveyors also used the

surrounding habitats as an indicator or proxy for the vegetation on the inaccessible piece of ground. This

constraint is not considered to affect the validity of the survey results, or the robustness of any assessments

made from these data.

The NVC system does not cover all possible semi-natural vegetation or habitat types that may be found. Since

the NVC was adopted for use in Britain in the 1980s further survey work and an increased knowledge of

vegetation communities has led to additional communities being described that do not fall within the NVC

system. Where such communities are found, and recorded, they are given a non-NVC community code and are

described.

It should be noted that the results from this survey, and the matches made in describing communities, represent

a current community evaluation at the time of survey (as opposed to one seeking to describe what the

community was before any human interference, or what it might become in the future). In light of this, a clear

constraint of the vegetation survey and evaluation process as used in this and other surveys is that it offers only

a snapshot of the vegetation communities present and should not be interpreted as a static long term reference.

5 NVC SURVEY RESULTS AND VEGETATION DESCRIPTIONS

5.1 Summary of NVC Communities

The categories of vegetation within the study area include the following 39 NVC communities recorded during

the survey:

Mires and flushes: M2, M3, M4, M6, M17, M19, M20, M23, M25, M27

Wet heaths: M15

Springs: M32

Dry heaths: H10, H12, H16, H18, H21

Grasslands and bracken: U2, U4, U5, U6, U20, MG1, MG6, MG7, MG9, MG10, CG10

Woodland and scrub: W6, W7, W9, W10, W11, W17, W21, W24


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Swamp and tall-herb fens: S19

Vegetation of open habitats: OV25, OV27

The following sections describe the flora, structure and habitats of these communities and any associated

observed sub-communities, as found within this study area. For each NVC community description, the first

paragraph refers to the community in Britain or Scotland as a whole, before describing the vegetation as it was

found to occur within this study area. The NVC communities within each broad habitat type (e.g. mires) are

described in order of community number within the study area.

The survey results are displayed in Figure 8.2. A number of target notes were also made during surveys, often to

pinpoint areas or species of special interest such as springs. These target note locations are also shown in Figure

8.2 and detailed within Annex 1. A sample of target note photographs are included within Annex 2. Further

photographs of a number of the typical habitat types found within the study area are provided within Annex 3.

5.2 Mires and Flushes

5.2.1 M2 Sphagnum cuspidatum/fallax bog pool community

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M2

This community is typically found in pools and lawns on the surface of very wet and base-poor peats on

ombrogenous and topogenous mires in the less oceanic parts of Britain (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001;

Averis et al 2004). M2 is typically dominated by soft wet carpets of Sphagnum cuspidatum or S. fallax, or both.

This community has been reduced by widespread drainage and cutting of mires, so that often just small and

modified fragments remain within predominantly agricultural landscapes. However, this community also readily

colonises shallow flooded workings (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

A relatively small number of M2 bog pools are present within the study area considering its size; areas of M2

tend to be found within larger areas of M17 Trichophorum germanicum – Eriophorum vaginatum mire and M19

Calluna vulgaris – Eriophorum vaginatum mire, and their overall coverage is small. As is typical for the

community these pools are dominated by carpets of Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. fallax; S. palustre and S.

capillifolium were also noted. Throughout the carpet of Sphagna there are often scattered shoots of Eriophorum

angustifolium and around the edges there is often some encroachment from Erica tetralix, Eriophorum

vaginatum and Narthecium ossifragum.

5.2.2 M3 Eriophorum angustifolium bog pool community

The M3 community is typically found as small stands on barer exposures of acid peat in depressions, erosion

channels or shallow peat cuttings on a wide range of mire types but especially among the M19 Calluna vulgaris –

Eriophorum vaginatum and M20 Eriophorum vaginatum mires (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). It can

occur in permanently flooded pools and natural hollows on surfaces of more or less intact mires, and on dried-up

hollows and among erosion features where the peat has been worn down in gullies or redistributed (Rodwell et

al 1991; Elkington et al 2001; Averis et al 2004). The typical species, Eriophorum angustifolium, can occur as

dense and often tall swards, but equally commonly it occurs as sparser shoots scattered over expanses of bare

peat (Averis et al 2004).

Small pools or patches of M3 are scarcely scattered throughout some of the mire communities within the study

area, more so on the higher plateaus. These areas contain an abundance of Eriophorum angustifolium with some

scattered associates through the sward including Eriophorum vaginatum, Carex nigra, Juncus effusus, and the

mosses Polytrichum commune, Sphagnum fallax, S. cuspidatum, S. capillifolium and S. palustre.

5.2.3 M4 Carex rostrata - Sphagnum fallax mire

The M4 community is characteristic of pools and seepage areas on peat soils of topogenous and soligenous

mires where the waters are fairly acid and only slightly enriched. It can occur in bog pools on the surface of basin

mires, but is more common in obviously soligenous areas as in mire laggs and the wettest parts of water-tracks

(Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). This mire typically has a cover of sedges over a carpet of semi-aquatic

Sphagnum spp.

M4 is rare within the study area and was only recorded in two small patches. These areas are characterised by a

sward of Carex rostrata growing over Sphagnum fallax, S. cuspidatum and Polytrichum commune and are closely

associated with areas of M6 Carex echinata - Sphagnum fallax/denticulatum mire.

5.2.4 M6 Carex echinata - Sphagnum fallax/denticulatum mire

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M6, M6b, M6c, M6d

This mire is the major soligenous community of peats and peaty gleys irrigated by base poor waters in the sub-

montane zone of northern and western Britain. It typically occurs as small stands among other mire

communities, grasslands and heaths, and is sometimes found with swamp and spring vegetation. It is commonly

found in tracts of unenclosed pasture on upland fringes, particularly between 200 m and 400 m (although it may

also be found much higher) and is ubiquitous in the upland fringes of Britain (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al

2001). The M6 community has a distinct general character but includes a wide variation in species composition,

expressed as four sub-communities (two of which are visually similar to the M23 community). It is essentially a

poor-fen with small sedges or rushes dominating over a carpet of oligotrophic and base-intolerant Sphagna

(Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

M6 is a very common community within the study area and is found throughout the mires, heaths and

grasslands present. It is generally present as relatively small stands, usually as flushes, runnels or soakways, and

along and within occluding ditches and minor watercourses, but it also extends over larger areas of wet ground;

often in mosaics with M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus – Galium palustre rush-pasture.

There are four sub-communities within M6, three of which were recorded within the study area. By far the most

common variant is the M6d Juncus acutiflorus sub-community, followed by the M6c Juncus effusus sub-

community and with the M6b Carex nigra - Nardus stricta sub community only recorded sparsely.

The M6c and M6d sub-communities are distinguished by a basic character of a tall sward of either Juncus effusus

or Juncus acutiflorus over a lawn of associates usually dominated by Sphagnum fallax and Polytrichum commune.


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In many stands these sub-communities are species-poor and most of the vegetation contains little more than the

species already listed beneath the Juncus spp. In some areas the vegetation is a little more diverse and a few

frequent to occasional associates enrich the sward to varying levels, these stands often include the following

species; Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium, Viola palustris, Potentilla erecta, Molinia caerulea, Rumex

acetosa, Succisa pratensis, Cirsium palustre, Agrostis spp., Holcus lanatus, Deschampsia cespitosa, Cardamine

spp., Galium saxatile, G. palustre, Carex nigra, C. panicea, C. echinata, Ranunculus spp., Sphagnum palustre, S.

denticulatum, S. capillifolium, Kindbergia praelonga, Hylocomium splendens and Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus.

The M6b Carex nigra - Nardus stricta sub community was recorded on only a few occasions, usually as small

runnels within areas of mire. This sub-community is does not contain the abundance of Juncus spp. as described

above, but instead Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex rostrata and Nardus stricta are more prominent and there is

abundant Carex nigra in the sward.

In particular, the M6c and M6d sub-communities are of very limited grazing value and of little economic

importance. In some places M6 is associated with drainage but more generally it reflects the topography-

influenced passage or retention of surface water. Furthermore, transitions between, and mosaics of, M6c and

M6d with M23 rush-pasture is a very common feature of many marshy sections of the study area.

5.2.5 M17 Trichophorum germanicum – Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M17, M17c

M17 Trichophorum germanicum – Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire is the characteristic blanket bog

vegetation of the more oceanic parts of Britain. It is typically found on deposits that are maintained in a

permanently waterlogged state by a high and generally stagnant water-table (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al

2001). It usually occurs on deeper peats over flat or gently sloping ground (Rodwell et al 1991). However, it can

also occur extensively on shallower peat.

This community is dominated by mixtures of monocotyledons, ericoid sub-shrubs and Sphagnum spp. It can

occur as extensive, relatively uniform tracts, or as hummock and hollow complexes, with this community giving

way to bog pool vegetation in the hollows (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). Among the bulkier vascular

species, the most common are Trichophorum germanicum, Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium, Molinia

caerulea, Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix. Sphagnum spp. are an important component of the ground layer

and can form extensive lawns. Burning, marginal peat-cutting, and drainage have often resulted in surface drying

of the peat and hence a modification of the vegetation.

M17 is present within the study area but it is not the most common mire type, its distribution is localised and it

rarely covers large areas. It is most often found on the wetter plateaus or nearby gentle slopes where there has

been less drainage and less intensive grazing. Most stands were recorded to community level only, however

occasionally patches of the M17c Juncus squarrosus - Rhytidiadelphus loreus sub-community were recorded.

The vascular vegetation cover of M17 within the study area is an assemblage of the grasses and sedges already

listed above, particularly Trichophorum germanicum and Eriophorum vaginatum; however, Calluna vulgaris is

much less prominent in the vegetation in comparison to the areas of M19 mire. Other species frequently to

occasionally present within the sward include Narthecium ossifragum, Empetrum nigrum, Vaccinium myrtillus,

Deschampsia flexuosa, Potentilla erecta, Juncus squarrosus, Rubus chamaemorus and Drosera rotundifolia. The

moss layer contains fairly abundant Sphagna, including the main locus for Sphagnum papillosum, and this is

often accompanied by some S. capillifolium, S. palustre, S. fallax, S. compactum and S. denticulatum and the

other mosses Hylocomium splendens, Hypnum jutlandicum, Polytrichum commune, Aulacomnium palustre and

Pleurozium schreberi. The patches of M17c are distinguished by a higher cover of Juncus squarrosus and

pleurocarpous mosses.

M17 is likely to have been reduced in extent in certain parts of the study area by agricultural improvement,

grazing and drainage.

5.2.6 M19 Calluna vulgaris – Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M19, M19a, M19b

This is the typical blanket bog vegetation of high-altitude ombrogenous peats in the wet and cold climate of the

uplands of northern Britain. In particular, it occurs on high-level plateaux and broad watersheds, usually above

300m, and is confined to deeper peats on flat or gently-sloping ground (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

It is generally dominated by mixtures of Eriophorum vaginatum and ericoid sub-shrubs (especially Calluna

vulgaris). Sphagnum spp. can be prominent over wetter ground but are not as luxuriant or rich as in M17 mire

(Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

M19 is the most common higher quality blanket bog community within the study area, and it forms many areas

over plateaus and adjoining slopes. Two of the three M19 sub-communities were recorded, both equally as

abundant, these are the M19a Erica tetralix sub-community and M19b Empetrum nigrum sub-community.

Differences between these sub-communities are often subtle in the field and they often mosaic together,

therefore in many instances the vegetation has been recorded to community level only. Areas of M19 also

commonly formed mosaics with M17 and M20 mires depending on local small scale variations in wetness and

grazing. M19 is also commonly found in mosaics with the wet heath community M15, this heath possibly having

been derived from M19 under certain treatments.

The areas of M19 within the study area are characterised by a co-dominance of Eriophorum vaginatum and

Calluna vulgaris. Associated species vary greatly in their abundance, but most stands typically include some Erica

tetralix, Deschampsia flexuosa, Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum germanicum, Empetrum nigrum,

Vaccinium myrtillus, Rubus chamaemorus, Juncus squarrosus, Molinia caerulea, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile

and Narthecium ossifragum. The most common mosses present are Sphagnum capillifolium, S. fallax, S. palustre,

Hylocomium splendens, Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum commune, Aulacomnium palustre, Hypnum

jutlandicum and Rhytidiadelphus loreus, along with some Cladonia spp. (lichens). Rarely there is some Sphagnum

papillosum.

The areas mapped as M19a contain a more noticeable abundance of Erica tetralix and Trichophorum

germanicum whereas the areas mapped as M19b contain much higher abundances of Empetrum nigrum and

Vaccinium myrtillus in the sward.


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5.2.7 M20 Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M20, M20a

M20 Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire is a community characteristic of ombrogenous peats on bogs where

certain treatments have greatly affected the vegetation; grazing and burning have been of greatest significance,

but drainage has also played a part in the development of M20 (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). It is

commonest on blanket mires where these factors have contributed both to floristic impoverishment and to

erosion of the peats. The peats are generally drier than in M17 and most M19 bogs, often showing surface

oxidation (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

M20 mire is common within the study area, in many areas it has evidently been derived from a long history of

grazing of once better quality mire; i.e. the sub-shrubs of M17/M19 have been grazed out over time to leave a

sward of dominant and sometimes tussocky Eriophorum vaginatum on increasingly dry peat. Transitions from

these communities to M20 can be seen across the study area, similarly the continued grazing and drying of M20

in the study area has led to some areas transitioning towards typically calcifugous grassland communities; in

places the shift to a mossy U2 Deschampsia flexuosa grassland is evident (see also section 5.6.1 below).

The vegetation of this community within the study area is always dominated by E. vaginatum, the tussocks of

which form an open or closed canopy 10-30cm high; a number of areas were mapped as the M20a species-poor

sub-community. Throughout the tussocks there is often quite abundant Deschampsia flexuosa and sometimes in

richer stands sparse sprigs or plants of Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex nigra, Juncus

squarrosus, Vaccinium myrtillus, Erica tetralix, Molinia caerulea, Festuca ovina, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Galium

saxatile, Potentilla erecta and Trichophorum germanicum. Mosses also vary in abundance; some tussocks are

carpeted in Hylocomium splendens, Hypnum jutlandicum, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, R. squarrosus and Pleurozium

schreberi. Between the tussocks in wetter patches there is often Polytrichum commune, Aulacomnium palustre,

Sphagnum fallax and S. capillifolium.

5.2.8 M23 Juncus effusus/acutiflorus – Galium palustre rush-pasture


This rush-pasture is a community of gently-sloping ground in and around the margins of soligenous flushes, as a

zone around topogenous mires and wet heaths, and in poorly drained, comparatively unimproved or reverted

pasture. It can be found on a variety of moderately acid to neutral soils that are kept moist to wet for most of

the year (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). As a result this community can be, at least partially,

potentially dependent on groundwater; however, it is also commonly associated with surface water flows and

surface water collection. This vegetation is characterised by the abundance of either Juncus effusus or J.

acutiflorus (sometimes both), with a ground layer of mesophytic herbs common in moist or permanently wet

grasslands; associates are quite diverse. Acidophilous Sphagna and Polytrichum commune are rare in the M23

community (Averis et al 2004).

M23 is very common within the study area and frequently forms both small and quite large extensive stands,

predominately towards the lower gently sloping and flatter wetter areas at the base of hills and around the

fringes and floodplains of the many watercourses present. Both of the M23 sub-communities occur here; the

M23a Juncus acutiflorus sub-community is more common and extensive than the M23b Juncus effusus sub-

community. With M23a a tall rush sward dominated by J. acutiflorus with a moderately diverse range of herb

associates is sufficient to distinguish this sub-community from the J. effusus dominated M23b. Within the study

area M23 also frequently forms mosaics with the M6 Carex echinata - Sphagnum fallax/denticulatum mire

community (see section 5.2.4).

In the areas of M23a the field layer beneath the J. acutiflorus sward is highly variable between and within stands,

and is strongly influenced by the water level; sometimes there is little more than a very dense sward of J.

acutiflorus. Where the field layer beneath the rushes is better developed, there is a variable assemblage of the

species listed in the next paragraph: these are widely frequent to occasional but can be abundant locally.

Among these associated species, the grasses are most abundant in relatively dry, marginal areas of the habitat,

while more mixed forb-rich assemblages are common in the wetter areas.

The species found occasionally throughout this sub-community in the study area include Agrostis capillaris, A.

stolonifera, Ranunculus repens, R. flammula, Juncus articulatus, Cardamine pratensis, Filipendula ulmaria,

Galium palustre, Carex nigra, Pedicularis palustris, Geranium pratense, Mimulus x robertsii, Cirsium palustre,

Lychnis flos-cuculi, Potentilla palustris, P. erecta, Deschampsia cespitosa, Crepis paludosa, Succisa pratensis,

Caltha palustris, Stellaria graminea, Epilobium palustre, Viola palustris, Cerastium fontanum, Rumex acetosa and

Holcus lanatus. Where the field layer is not overly dense there can be an abundant sward of the mosses

Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Calliergonella cuspidata and Brachythecium rivulare.

The M23b sub-community is often more associated here with wet grasslands used as pasture. As well as being

dominated by J. effusus, this sub-community also differs from M23a in being grassier and less species-rich.

Beneath the tall sward of J. effusus there is a field layer containing A. stolonifera, Poa spp., Deschampsia

cespitosa, Holcus lanatus, H. mollis, Rumex obtusifolius, Cirsium palustre and Urtica dioica. Where this sward is

less dense there are small herbs and mosses including frequent to occasional Brachythecium rivulare,

Calliergonella cuspidata, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus repens, Cardamine pratensis

and Galium palustre.

5.2.9 M25 Molinia caerulea – Potentilla erecta mire


M25 mire is a community of moist, but usually well aerated, acid to neutral peats and peaty soils (Rodwell et al

1991). It generally occurs over gently-sloping ground, marking out seepage zones and flushed margins of

topogenous mires, but also extends onto the fringes of ombrogenous mires (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al

2001; Averis et al 2004). Molinia caerulea is the most abundant species found in this community. The associated

flora is usually species-poor, and consists largely of Juncus spp. and a few dicotyledons. Occasionally sub-shrubs

can be quite common, particularly Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix. Treatments such as burning, grazing and

drainage are likely to be largely responsible for the development of this community over ground that would

naturally host some other kind of mire or wet heath vegetation (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

M25 mire is the most common mire type and one of the most abundant vegetation types throughout the whole

study area. This community, more than any other recorded during the survey, covers the largest homogenous


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tracts of gently to moderately steeply sloping hillsides. It is extensive, very species-poor and relatively dry over

large areas, it is also continuously grazed in most areas which is resulting in many areas appearing in transition to

acid grassland communities, particularly U5 Nardus stricta – Galium saxatile grassland (section 5.6.3 below).

Observations of peat depth underlying the areas of M25 indicate it is likely to be mostly shallow (e.g. field

observations from drainage ditches cut through M25 etc.).

As is typical, Molinia caerulea is the most abundant species found in this community, its tussocks blanketing the

ground to the near exclusion of all other species except for some sparse associates such as Galium saxatile,

Potentilla erecta and pleurocarpous mosses. Most of these species-poor areas are mapped to community level

only.

Other stands of M25 have been assigned a sub-community owing to the presence of a few more associate

species and the character of the vegetation, allowing this greater level of classification. Two of the three M25

sub-communities were recorded in the study area. Areas of M25 often more closely associated with other mire

types in mosaics and transitions were usually of the M25a Erica tetralix sub-community. Here, Molinia caerulea

is still dominant but the associated flora contains some additional scattered wet heath or bog associates such as

Erica tetralix, Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum, Potentilla erecta, Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus,

Trichophorum germanicum, Carex nigra, C. binervis and Narthecium ossifragum. Amongst the dense herbage of

the M25a sub-community bryophytes are often sparse but typically there are some tussocks with Hylocomium

splendens, Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum commune and Rhytidiadelphus spp. Sphagna are present in some

areas and are mainly of the species S. fallax, S. capillifolium and S. palustre.

Other areas of drier and more intensively grazed M25 where the tussocks of Molinia thin out are often best

described as belonging to the M25b Anthoxanthum odoratum sub-community. Here the community takes on a

much grassier appearance and it is often seen transitioning to, and in mosaics with, adjacent calcifugous

grasslands. Molinia here is accompanied by varying amounts of Holcus lanatus, Nardus stricta, Anthoxanthum

odoratum, Juncus squarrosus, Festuca ovina and Agrostis capillaris with pleurocarpous mosses, particularly

Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus.

The abundance of the M25 community in the study area is likely a reflection of the past and ongoing land

management regime. Treatments such as burning, grazing and drainage are likely to be largely responsible for

the development of this community over ground that would naturally carry some other kind of mire or wet

heath vegetation, remnants of which still exist and form mosaics and transitional zones with this community.

5.2.10 M27 Filipendula ulmaria – Angelica sylvestris mire

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M27

This community is typically found where moist, reasonably rich, circumneutral soils occur in situations protected

from grazing. It can be found in both topogenous and soligenous mires and is especially typical of silted margins

of slow-moving streams and soakways, the edges of flushes and damp hollows, and also of artificial habitats such

as along dykes and roadside ditches and around ponds (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). The community

cannot tolerate any other than very light or sporadic grazing and so stands often only persist outside enclosures,

and around un-reclaimed mires and flushes (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). Filipendula ulmaria forms

the overwhelming dominant and the only constant. Bryophytes are few in number and of low cover (Rodwell et

al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

M27 is rare within the study area, only being found as a few smaller lightly grazed stands by lower down and

larger watercourses, often in close association with or in a mosaic with M23 rush-pasture (section 5.2.8).

Filipendula ulmaria is dominant in these areas and the associate species are sparse, generally sharing much of

the same floral diversity as M23 rush-pasture described above. F. ulmaria here is most commonly accompanied

by Holcus lanatus, Juncus acutiflorus, Rumex acetosa, Ranunculus spp., Phalaris arundinacea, Cirsium palustre

and Valeriana officinalis.

5.3 Wet Heaths

5.3.1 M15 Trichophorum germanicum – Erica tetralix wet heath

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M15, M15a, M15b, M15d

This wet heath community is characteristic of moist and generally acid and oligotrophic peats and peaty mineral

soils in the wetter western and northern parts of Britain. It is also associated with thinner or better drained areas

of ombrogenous peat (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). It is a vegetation type with few constant species

and wide variation in its flora and dominant species. Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Trichophorum

germanicum and Erica tetralix are usually all of high frequency, and it is mixtures of these species that give the

vegetation its general character. However sometimes one or two of them may be missing and their relative

proportions can be very diverse (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). The shrubby species Erica cinerea,

Vaccinium myrtillus and Myrica gale are important in particular sub-communities. M15 is generally an extremely

variable community in terms of dominants and co-dominants, which can vary markedly over short distances.

Grazing and burning have important effects on the floristics and structure of this community, and draining and

peat-cutting have extended its coverage to formerly deeper and wetter peats in which blanket mire

communities (i.e. M17-M19) were initially present (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

M15 is widespread throughout the study area but rarely as large stands, it is more often present as scattered

smaller stands through other areas of mire and dry heath. M15 in the study area shows some considerable

variation, highlighted by the presence of three of the four sub-communities; in order of decreasing abundance,

M15b Typical sub-community, M15d Vaccinium myrtillus sub-community and M15a Carex panicea sub-

community. Even within these sub-communities there is often a large variation in the dominant species.

The most common sub-community is the M15b Typical sub-community. It consists mainly of a sward with very

variable amounts of the main characteristic species: Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea, Trichophorum

germanicum and Erica tetralix. The relative proportions of these species can be very varied within small areas,

and each one of these species can attain local dominance or be completely absent. Many other species are

frequently to occasionally scattered in these M15b heaths: they include Carex panicea, C. binervis, C. nigra,

Narthecium ossifragum, Juncus squarrosus, Eriophorum angustifolium, Nardus stricta, Anthoxanthum odoratum,

Luzula multiflora, Festuca ovina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Polygala serpyllifolia, Vaccinium myrtillus, Dactylorhiza

maculata, Potentilla erecta, Galium saxatile, Drosera rotundifolia and Blechnum spicant. Eriophorum vaginatum

is only a sparse occasional.


7 | P a g e

The M15b field layer often contains some M. caerulea litter among and beneath the vascular plants, but in this

same zone mosses can be common, with the following species found in varying abundances: Sphagnum

capillifolium, S. fallax, S. palustre, Dicranum scoparium, Plagiothecium undulatum, Aulacomnium palustre,

Hypnum jutlandicum, Pleurozium schreberi, Hylocomium splendens, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus and Polytrichum

commune.

A number of areas of the M15d Vaccinium myrtillus sub-community were also recorded within the study area.

This sub-community is at the drier end of the M15 continuum. These areas of M15d are characterised mainly by

Calluna vulgaris and Trichophorum germanicum with some Erica tetralix and Potentilla erecta and occasionally

scattered shoots of Vaccinium myrtillus. Molinia caerulea is scarce throughout M15d. Many of these stands are

evidently a secondary heath arising from muir burning of the existing wet and dry heaths present. Consequently,

many stands of M15d here are heavily dominated by T. germanicum, although locally Anthoxanthum odoratum

and/or Deschampsia flexuosa are almost co-dominant but subordinate to the cover of T. germanicum. Between

the tussocks of T. germanicum a number of other species are frequent to occasional. These include Juncus

squarrosus, Nardus stricta, Erica tetralix, Narthecium ossifragum, Carex nigra, Polygala serpyllifolia, Luzula

multiflora, Galium saxatile and Festuca ovina. Sphagna are rare apart from occasional S. capillifolium;

pleurocarpous mosses dominate in the bryophyte layer.

The M15a Carex panicea sub-community is present as a few small stands. It is more a soligenous mire than a wet

heath (Averis et al 2004). It occurs within the study area as flushed areas within the other sub-communities of

M15 and other mires, as well as occurring as some discrete stands. M15a has a thinner canopy of the

characteristic species described above, though within the study area often lacking much Calluna vulgaris due to

the wetter soils. In the study area this sub-community is distinguished from the other sub-communities of M15

by the presence of species indicative of flushing; especially characteristic here are the small sedges Carex

panicea and C. viridula.

5.4 Springs

5.4.1 M32 Philonotis fontana – Saxifraga stellaris spring

Communities/sub-communities recorded: M32, M32b

M32 is a community of springs and rills at moderate to high altitudes, mainly from 450m to over 1000m, where

there is irrigation with circumneutral and oligotrophic waters. This is one of the most common and widespread

types of spring vegetation in the uplands of north-west Britain and is dependent on sustained irrigation by

groundwater (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). These bryophyte-dominated springs, flushes and rills are

striking in appearance; Philonotis fontana is usually dominant and visually obvious by its bright green colour.

A small number of M32 springs and rills were found within the study area, generally of the M32b Montia fontana

– Chrysosplenium oppositifolium sub community. The locations of these springs are detailed within Figure 8.2

and Annex 1 - Target Notes; photographic examples are provided in Annex 2. Most of these are located on the

lower valley slopes in the headwaters of the Glenclach Burn, near Wanlockhead.

These springs and upwelling’s contain abundant Montia fontana and Philonotis fontana. Other species noted

included Calliergonella cuspidata, Dichodontium palustre, Palustriella commutata, Ranunculus flammula, R.

repens, Carex panicea and a little Cardamine pratensis. This community is a GWDTE due to its dependency on

groundwater irrigation/upwelling.

5.5 Dry Heaths

Dry heath is common throughout the study area, particularly in the eastern extent of the study area where large

tracts of Calluna dominated dry heath blanket the slopes and summits and is managed for grouse via rotational

muir burning. The vast majority of dry heath present is H12 Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus heath but

there are some substantial patches of other forms of dry heath, most notably H18 Vaccinium myrtillus –

Deschampsia flexuosa heath (see below).

5.5.1 H10 Calluna vulgaris – Erica cinerea heath

Communities/sub-communities recorded: H10

H10 Calluna vulgaris – Erica cinerea heath is a dry heath community that occurs widely throughout the more

oceanic sections of Scotland. It is a community characteristic of acid to circumneutral and generally free-draining

soils and is typically dominated by Calluna vulgaris. Erica cinerea, a constant, is frequent but generally

subordinate to C. vulgaris. H10 is commonly found in zonations and mosaics with grasslands, other heath types

and mire communities (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001).

Only a single small patch of H10 heath was recorded in the study area, this patch is essentially the same as the

H12 heath described below in section 5.5.2 but Erica cinerea was notably co-dominant along with the Calluna.

5.5.2 H12 Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus heath

Communities/sub-communities recorded: H12, H12a, H12c

H12 Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus heath is a typical sub-shrub community of acidic to circumneutral,

free-draining mineral soils throughout the cold and wet sub-montane zone, generally between 200m and 600m.

H12 is generally dominated by Calluna vulgaris although the cover of this species can be open and degenerate.

Vaccinium myrtillus is constant, though it is usually subordinate to C. vulgaris. The ground layer is generally

characterised by bulky mosses (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). H12 heaths are rather uniform and they

cover extensive areas throughout large parts of Scotland.

H12 is the most common form of heath within the study area. The H12 vegetation consists of dense canopies of

C. vulgaris with shoots of V. myrtillus where the Calluna is not overly dominant. There can also be other sub-

shrubs, especially in the heaths recovering after muir burning, which is commonplace. Herbs are usually

inconspicuous below the canopy, and there is a dense carpet of pleurocarpous mosses including Hylocomium

splendens, Hypnum jutlandicum, Pleurozium schreberi and Rhytidiadelphus loreus. Levels of grazing on this type

heath vary considerably within the study area, with areas of light grazing containing tall and leggy stands of

Calluna, whereas more intensively grazed areas have shorter swards of closer cropped Calluna interspersed with

more graminoids.


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The slopes in the eastern extent of the study area have the most extensive cover of H12, where the topography

of mounds, ridges and slopes provides the appropriate free-draining conditions, with wet heath and blanket bog

often occupying the intervening depressions, flats and hollows.

Nearly all stands are of the H12a Calluna vulgaris sub-community, although some areas of the H12c Galium

saxatile – Festuca ovina sub-community were also recorded. The vegetation of a considerable proportion of the

H12a consists of little more than Calluna vulgaris over a lawn of pleurocarpous mosses with a few sprigs of

Vaccinium myrtillus (which itself can be locally absent). Other typical associates in very variable abundances in

H12a within the study area include Erica cinerea, Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris,

Nardus stricta, Galium saxatile, Blechnum spicant, Empetrum nigrum, Luzula multiflora and Carex binervis. The

most common mosses here are Hylocomium splendens, Hypnum jutlandicum, Pleurozium schreberi, Dicranum

scoparium, Pseudoscleropodium purum and Rhytidiadelphus loreus. Cladonia ssp. (lichens) are also quite

frequent in some areas.

Areas of H12c tend to have a shorter, grazed and more open sward of Calluna with an increased abundance of

the graminoids listed above. In this sub-community higher levels of grazing have reduced the cover of the

Calluna canopy, so that elements of U4 and U5 calcifugous grasslands have become established in the

intervening spaces.

Locally, burning of the heath has created an intricate patchwork of H12 in different stages of recovery and

development, and with variable vigour of Calluna closely juxtaposed.

5.5.3 H16 Calluna vulgaris – Arctostaphylos uva-ursi heath


H16 Calluna vulgaris – Arctostaphylos uva-ursi heath is a typical sub-shrub community of circumneutral to base-

poor soils at moderate altitudes, and is generally found between 240m and 600m altitude in the cold continental

climate of the east-central Highlands (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). H16 is characterised by the

relative abundance of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi alongside typical heath vegetation including C. vulgaris, and in

lower abundances Erica cinerea (Elkington et al 2001). This vegetation type is often a secondary heath resulting

after burning, which maintains this vegetation as a plagioclimax community (Elkington et al 2001; Averis et al

2004).

H16 is rare within the study area, only being recorded in a couple of stands in the eastern extent of the study

area on heathy slopes. Here, the vegetation appears very much superficially similar to that of H12a as described

above (section 5.5.2) with the only real difference being the appearance of a low cover of Arctostaphylos uva-

ursi within the vegetation. This community is likely a transitional one that has arisen from the burning of H12

heath locally.

5.5.4 H18 Vaccinium myrtillus – Deschampsia flexuosa heath

Communities/sub-communities recorded: H18, H18a, H18b

H18 Vaccinium myrtillus – Deschampsia flexuosa heath is typical of moist but free draining acid to neutral

mineral soils, humic rankers and dry peats over steeper slopes at moderate to high altitudes (Rodwell et al 1991;

Averis et al 2004). H18 includes moss-rich and grassy sub-shrub vegetation in which V. myrtillus is the most

frequent and generally the most abundant ericoid (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). H18 can be a near-

natural heath as in the montane zone, or one that is clearly anthropogenic as seen at lower altitudes where it is

evidently a derivative of H12 Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus heaths that have been burned and then

grazed too hard to allow Calluna vulgaris to re-establish (Rodwell et al 1991; Averis et al 2004).

There are some large areas of H18 heath present in the more eastern extent of the study area on steep slopes,

these have evidently been derived from former areas of H12 where burning and intensive grazing has all but

eliminated Calluna vulgaris from the sward, although it is still scattered in the vegetation as small infrequent

individuals. Here, Vaccinium myrtillus is the most common species in both mossy and grassy stands of H18, two

sub-communities were recorded; H18a Hylocomium splendens – Rhytidiadelphus loreus sub-community and

H18b Alchemilla alpina – Carex pilulifera sub-community.

Throughout H18 as a whole within the study area the dominant V. myrtillus is accompanied by varying

abundances of characteristic associate species including Deschampsia flexuosa, Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris,

Anthoxanthum odoratum, Blechnum spicant, Potentilla erecta and Galium saxatile.

Areas of H18a are notable for their mossy sward and sprigs of V. myrtillus growing through a carpet of

Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Dicranum scoparium, Hylocomium splendens, Hypnum jutlandicum and Pleurozium

schreberi. H18b tends to be more graminoid rich with the species as listed above, and with wefts of the moss

Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus.

5.5.5 H21 - Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus – Sphagnum capillifolium heath


The H21 community generally has a mixed canopy of sub-shrubs, usually 30-50cm high, with a damp layer of

luxuriant bryophytes. Calluna vulgaris is usually the dominant ericoid, although Vaccinium myrtillus can also be

common. Bryophytes form an extensive and lush carpet; particularly distinctive is the high frequency and local

abundance of Sphagnum capillifolium (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et al 2001). This heath is highly

characteristic of fragmentary humic soils in situations with a cool but equable climate and a consistently shady

and humid atmosphere. It is widespread at low to moderate altitudes in upland Britain. It is found mainly on

steep, shady slopes of north-west to easterly aspect, often with rock outcrops (Rodwell et al 1991; Elkington et

al 2001).

H21 heath is rare within the study area and only forms small fragmentary patches within other heaths, such as

north facing H12. It is characterised by a few main species, namely Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus and

Deschampsia flexuosa over a carpet of bryophytes with abundant Sphagnum capillifolium and some S. fallax,

Pleurozium schreberi, Rhytidiadelphus loreus and Hypnum jutlandicum.


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5.6 Calcifugous Grasslands and bracken-dominated vegetation

5.6.1 U2 Deschampsia flexuosa grassland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: U2, U2b

This grassland is characteristic of base poor soils that are free draining but not parched and are sometimes quite

moist. It occurs through the upland fringes and in moderately oceanic parts of the lowlands. The community is

often seen in close association with some heaths and mires and can grade into them. Deschampsia flexuosa

grassland comprises swards in which often tussocky D. flexuosa is the obvious dominant with a number of sparse

associates (Rodwell et al 1992). Many stands of U2 grassland have evidently been derived from some sort of

disturbance in previous heath, mire or woodland, and the community often appears to be transitional post-

disturbance vegetation (Averis et al 2004).

U2 is widely scattered throughout parts of the study area but it rarely forms large expanses, except where

Deschampsia flexuosa has vigorously recolonised areas of former plantation clear-fell. Outside of felled areas it

appears scattered throughout some of the other acid grasslands and as patches within dry heath which is typical

of this community. However, within the study area U2 also appears in places to be developing from areas of M20

mire that are becoming increasingly dry. These transitional M20 to U2 areas can be seen where the dominant

and characteristic species has, or is, clearly shifting from Eriophorum vaginatum to Deschampsia flexuosa.

U2 within the study area is dominated by D. flexuosa with a range of more frequent to occasional associates.

These include Festuca ovina, Agrostis capillaris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Nardus stricta, Vaccinium myrtillus,

Blechnum spicant, Molinia caerulea, Potentilla erecta and Galium saxatile. Underneath the grasses and herbs

bryophytes are common, the most abundant species being Rhytidiadelphus spp., Hylocomium splendens and

Pleurozium schreberi. Areas mapped as the U2b Vaccinium myrtillus sub-community contain a more notable

abundance of V. myrtillus and occasional Calluna vulgaris and are not that dissimilar to the H18 heaths also

present (section 5.5.4).

5.6.2 U4 Festuca ovina – Agrostis capillaris – Galium saxatile grassland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: U4, U4a, U4b

The U4 Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Galium saxatile grassland is a form of predominately upland grassland

of well-drained, acidic and base-poor mineral soils throughout the wet and cool regions of north-west Britain

where it dominates extensive areas of pastureland (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper 1997). Throughout this

geographic range the community can often be found forming a distinctive component of larger mosaics of

grasslands, heaths, and mires.

U4 grassland communities are generally identified on the presence of an often close-cropped, grass-rich sward

dominated by various combinations of A. capillaris, F. ovina and Anthoxanthum odoratum, with G. saxatile and

Potentilla erecta consistent associates. A well-developed moss layer is also characteristic, but in the U4b sub-

community it may be limited by the dense, relatively productive sward of grasses.

U4 is extensive throughout the study area and it forms the most productive areas of sheep grazing land within

the hills. It covers both extensive areas that are used for grazing and smaller discrete patches in mosaics with

mire, heath and other grassland communities. In the latter case the U4 grasslands often occupy the best-drained

situations that are grazed by sheep. Two sub-communities are widespread within the study area, the U4a Typical

sub-community mainly on higher ground and upland margins and the more semi-improved and productive U4b

Holcus lanatus - Trifolium repens sub-community in lower down areas and around farmsteads. Species diversity

in the community, and indeed each sub-community, is very variable throughout the study area. Many areas

contain only a few of the characteristic species and these dominate the sward, whereas in others the plant

diversity is noticeably richer.

Overall, the stands of U4 within the study area tend to have variable amounts of the grasses A. capillaris, F.

ovina, H. lanatus and A. odoratum and the moss Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus. Typical quantities of these species

and associate species differ between the respective sub-communities.

The U4a Typical sub-community is common but has few distinguishing species. Along with the above grasses the

sward is often thick with mosses such as Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Pseudoscleropodium purum, Hylocomium

splendens and Pleurozium schreberi; and Galium saxatile and Potentilla erecta are very common. Other

occasional associates in particular stands include Nardus stricta, Festuca rubra, Juncus effusus, J. squarrosus,

Deschampsia flexuosa, Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Plantago lanceolata, Cerastium fontanum,

Conopodium majus, Carex panicea, Pedicularis sylvatica, Luzula multiflora, Euphrasia spp., Viola riviniana,

Trifolium repens, Galium verum, Campanula rotundifolia, Viola lutea, Succisa pratensis, Rumex acetosa, R.

acetosella, Veronica chamaedrys, Prunella vulgaris, Lotus corniculatus and the mosses Brachythecium rutabulum

and Dicranum scoparium. Rarely there are some sprigs of Thymus polytrichus, but not enough to classify the

vegetation as CG10 Festuca ovina - Agrostis capillaris - Thymus polytrichus grassland (see section 5.8.1).

Within the study area, U4a is generally associated with extensive grazing. It is commonly associated with dry

heath, from which it is probably derived through the influence of grazing in places. U4 also occurs on raised,

free-draining mineral mounds protruding through wet heath, blanket bog and other forms of mire.

The U4b Holcus lanatus - Trifolium repens sub-community is the most common form of U4 around the more

managed farmland areas. Some agricultural improvement is evident in the U4b sub-community; this is most

apparent in the presence of a relatively productive, broad-leaved grass sward including abundant Holcus lanatus.

The abundance of Trifolium repens within the sward also serves as a characteristic point of distinction. These

two species, along with lesser amounts of Agrostis capillaris and Anthoxanthum odoratum, are a feature of these

areas. This semi-improved U4b grassland also sees the appearance of species such as Poa pratensis, Cynosurus

cristatus, Lolium perenne, Achillea millefolium, Conopodium majus, Stellaria graminea, Plantago lanceolata,

Trifolium pratense, Bellis perennis, Taraxacum agg., Ranunculus repens, R. acris, and occasional patches of

Cirsium arvense, Urtica dioica and Rumex obtusifolius where there is localised enrichment of the soil. Valuable as

pasture, this sub-community is managed by relatively continuous grazing.

5.6.3 U5 Nardus stricta – Galium saxatile grassland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: U5, U5a


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U5 grassland tends to be found on damp mineral soils which have peaty upper horizons. U5 typically occupies

slopes where the depth and wetness of the soil are intermediate between those of the drier podsols under U4

grasslands and wet shallow peats found under U6 grassland. The underlying rock can be anything from acid to

basic, but the soils are generally acidic (Rodwell et al 1992; Averis et al 2004). U5 is common on the higher hill

slopes of the cool, wet north and west of Britain (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997).

U5 is common within the study area and is frequently found on the slopes and summits as sole stands or in

mosaics with other grasslands as well as mires and heath. The vegetation is generally of the U5a Species-poor

sub-community, which lacks any of the species distinctive to the other sub-communities. U5a is readily identified

on this basis alone. The sward is dominated almost exclusively by Nardus stricta in places, and the sub-

community is visible from a distance on the basis of its light appearance; Galium saxatile is also typically

abundant. Juncus squarrosus, Agrostis capillaris and Anthoxanthum odoratum can be locally frequent to

abundant, and the following species are generally occasional to rare: Festuca ovina, Deschampsia flexuosa, Viola

riviniana, Potentilla erecta, Carex binervis, C. pulicaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Luzula multiflora, Pedicularis

sylvatica, Molinia caerulea and Calluna vulgaris. Mosses such as Hypnum jutlandicum, Rhytidiadelphus

squarrosus, R. loreus, Hylocomium splendens and Pleurozium schreberi are very common.

5.6.4 U6 Juncus squarrosus – Festuca ovina grassland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: U6, U6a, U6d

U6 Juncus squarrosus - Festuca ovina grassland is characteristic of moist peats and peaty mineral soils, almost

always base-poor and infertile, over gentle slopes and plateaux at higher altitudes (400m to 800m) in the cool

and wet north and west of Britain (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997). U6 is often a secondary vegetation type,

strongly encouraged by particular kinds of grazing and burning treatments in damper upland pastures and on the

drying fringes of blanket mires. The spread of J. squarrosus in upland pastures tends to be encouraged where

uncontrolled heavy and selective grazing has been applied over rather ill-drained ground (Rodwell et al 1992;

Cooper, 1997).

U6 is a common community type over the summits of many of the hills within the study area, particularly the

eastern extent of the study area. It also often extends from these plateaus down the adjoining gentle slopes for

a short distance before giving way to other grasslands such as U5 and U4. It is also found in mosaics with wet

heath and mire communities and appears to have been derived from these habitats by grazing.

U6 was often recorded to community level only; however, two sub-communities were recorded in places; the

U6a Sphagnum sub-community and U6d Agrostis capillaris – Luzula multiflora sub-community. As would be

expected Juncus squarrosus is the dominant species in each stand, irrespective of sub-community. It is

frequently accompanied by varying amounts of the grasses Festuca ovina, Nardus stricta, Agrostis spp. and

Anthoxanthum odoratum, the herb Galium saxatile and pleurocarpous mosses. Other occasional species in the

swards include Deschampsia flexuosa, Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Potentilla erecta, Eriophorum

vaginatum and Molinia caerulea.

A number of damper examples of the U6 community on more peaty soils and around mires correspond to the

U6a Sphagnum sub-community. U6a is common here as small stands and is characterised by an abundance of

Sphagna, particularly Sphagnum fallax, S. capillifolium and S. palustre; there can be occasional tussocks of

Eriophorum vaginatum and some Erica tetralix and Aulacomnium palustre as well.

The areas of U6d are the most grass rich form of U6. It is essentially very similar to the U4a Festuca ovina –

Agrostis capillaris – Galium saxatile grassland Typical sub-community as described above (section 5.6.2) but with

abundant J. squarrosus in the sward.

5.6.5 U20 Pteridium aquilinum – Galium saxatile community

Communities/sub-communities recorded: U20

The U20 Pteridium aquilinum – Galium saxatile community occurs on well aerated and often moist soils which

are base-poor to circumneutral (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997). Pteridium aquilinum is the sole dominant and

is overwhelmingly abundant in some stands. This is a community of little ecological value.

U20 occurs as scattered stands within the study area, most often found on steeper drier slopes in valleys, usually

in mosaics with other grasslands and rush-pastures. U20 was only recorded to community level given its low

ecological value. Generally, the vegetation is overwhelmingly dominated by Pteridium aquilinum but there can

also be an associated grassy assemblage of species in the sward similar to that of the U4 community described

above in section 5.6.2.

5.7 Mesotrophic Grasslands

5.7.1 MG1 Arrhenatherum elatius grassland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: MG1, MG1c

MG1 is essentially ungrazed grassland in which coarse-leaved tussock grasses are dominant in the sward. It is

found on circumneutral and free draining soils throughout the British lowlands. Key to its development is the

irregularity or absence of grazing (Rodwell et al 1992).

MG1 is rare within the study area; it is not found within the main core of the study area but is present in some

small ungrazed areas on the fringes of the study area and along unmanaged roadside edges, particularly along

the access track option to the south-west towards Sanquhar (Access B).

The character of MG1 is quite diverse in the areas mapped with few species attaining dominance throughout,

species can be very locally abundant and these tend to be the characteristic species such as Arrhenatherum

elatius, Dactylis glomerata and Holcus lanatus. Aside from these main species there is quite a wide range of

associates which vary greatly in their abundance, many are frequent to occasional and include the following:

Festuca rubra, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Heracleum sphondylium, Achillea millefolium, Deschampsia cespitosa,

Urtica dioica, Cirsium arvense, Lathyrus pratensis, Anthriscus sylvestris, Filipendula ulmaria, Rumex obtusifolius,

R. acetosa, Agrostis capillaris, Valeriana officinalis, Veronica chamaedrys, Juncus effusus, Ranunculus repens,

Centaurea nigra, Succisa pratensis, Trifolium repens, T. pratense, Cerastium fontanum, Tussilago farfara, Senecio

jacobaea, Achillea ptarmica, Stellaria graminea, Chamerion angustifolium, Epilobium hirsutum, Digitalis


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purpurea, Rubus fruticosus agg., R. idaeus, Plantago lanceolata, Galium aparine, G. saxatile, Potentilla erecta and

Stachys palustris. One area of the MG1c Filipendula ulmaria sub-community was recorded near Sanquhar where

F. ulmaria is co-dominant with the characteristic grasses as described above.

5.7.2 MG6 Lolium perenne – Cynosurus cristatus grassland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: MG6

MG6 is the major permanent pasture type on moist but freely draining circumneutral brown soils in lowland

Britain, and is often found in enclosed stands. It has usually been subjected to some form of improvement such

as fertiliser application and drainage, and many stands have been derived from historical ploughing and re-

seeding (Rodwell et al 1992).

MG6 is uncommon within the study area, there are some small areas around farmsteads but the main areas of

MG6 mapped are in the agriculturally improved fields abutting the Sanquhar access route option (Access B).

These fields are used for hay/silage or livestock grazing, and have likely been treated with periodic fertiliser

applications; some may have been ploughed and reseeded in the past as well. The vegetation is dominated by a

sward of Lolium perenne with occasional Cynosurus cristatus, Holcus lanatus, Festuca rubra, Anthoxanthum

odoratum, Agrostis spp., Conopodium majus, Achillea millefolium, Trifolium repens, Bellis perennis, Prunella

vulgaris, Cerastium fontanum, Rumex acetosella, Plantago lanceolata and Poa annua.

5.7.3 MG7 Lolium perenne leys and related grasslands


MG7 Lolium perenne leys and related grasslands are species-poor, grass dominated swards characterised by the

constant abundance of L. perenne and other specifically selected grasses. This community is a distinctive one of

intensive grassland treatment, including the frequent addition of fertilisers (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997).

Grasslands of this type are often specifically sown as high productivity swards for intensive agricultural use, such

as for hay or silage.

One field of MG7 was recorded along the Sanquhar access route option (Access B) just east of Conrick, evidently

heavily improved by fertiliser and used for silage this field was little more than a sward of Lolium perenne.

5.7.4 MG9 Holcus lanatus – Deschampsia cespitosa grassland


MG9 Holcus lanatus – Deschampsia cespitosa grassland is characteristic of permanently moist, gleyed and

periodically inundated circumneutral soils across large areas of the British lowlands. It can exist on level to

moderately sloping ground in areas of pasture or meadow, but can also be found along woodland rides and

fen/wetland margins. MG9 typically contains a coarse and tussocky sward dominated by D. cespitosa (Rodwell et

al 1992; Cooper, 1997).

MG9 is only found as small scattered stands within the study area and has a very low overall coverage, it also

tends to be found in mosaics as a small percentage within much larger rush mires and pastures (i.e. the M23 and

MG10 communities).

The vegetation is dominated by Deschampsia cespitosa, and Holcus lanatus and Juncus spp. are locally abundant

between the tussocks. Within the sward established by these two grasses, other species are occasional to locally

frequent, including Agrostis capillaris, Carex nigra, Ranunculus repens, Rumex acetosa, R. obtusifolius, Potentilla

erecta, Cirsium palustre and the mosses Calliergonella cuspidata, Kindbergia praelonga and Rhytidiadelphus

squarrosus.

5.7.5 MG10 Holcus lanatus – Juncus effusus rush-pasture

Communities/sub-communities recorded: MG10, MG10a

MG10 is a form of rush-pasture characteristic of areas with strongly impeded drainage over a wide range of

usually acid to neutral mineral soils on level to gently sloping ground (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997). This

community requires consistently high soil moisture (Rodwell et al 1992). It occurs across most of the British

lowlands, with the typical sub-community being particularly prominent towards the north and west. Although

found on various soil types including brown earth and calcareous earth throughout its range, this habitat can

also have close associations with various types of mire vegetation and can form significant parts of rush-

dominated mire mosaics in areas of suitably moist soils.

MG10 is characterised by an assemblage in which tussocks of Juncus effusus are abundant in species-poor

swards of Holcus lanatus, Agrostis stolonifera, Poa trivialis and forbs including Ranunculus acris, R. repens,

Rumex acetosa, Cardamine pratensis and Trifolium repens. Mosses such as Brachythecium rutabulum,

Calliergonella cuspidata, Kindbergia praelonga and Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus often form diffuse wefts over the

damp soil and among the larger plants (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997).

MG10 is common within the study area. It forms both extensive and small stands, mostly within wetter hollows,

flow lines and poorly drained parts of fields where Juncus effusus has taken over (e.g. within U4 and MG6

grasslands). It also occurs in mosaics with other wet grasslands (MG9) and Juncus spp. mires (M6 and M23).

The vegetation within the study area belongs to the MG10a Typical sub-community. This reflects both the

species-poor nature of the vegetation as well as absence of the species characteristic of the other sub-

communities (i.e. no Juncus inflexus or Iris pseudacorus). The vegetation is typically dominated by dense tussocks

of J. effusus, with frequent to occasional H. lanatus and the typical species already listed for the community as a

whole. In some areas there is little else other than a dense growth of J. effusus. Where other occasional

associates do appear in the sward they include Deschampsia cespitosa, Juncus acutiflorus, Rumex obtusifolius, R.

acetosa, Plantago lanceolata, Cardamine pratensis, Agrostis stolonifera, Ranunculus repens and Cirsium palustre.

The sward throughout the study area is generally species-poor.


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5.8 Calcicolous Grasslands

5.8.1 CG10 Festuca ovina – Agrostis capillaris – Thymus polytrichus grassland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: CG10a

CG10 is a sub-montane community of base-rich and often moist brown earths which have developed over a wide

variety of calcareous bedrocks and coarse-textured superficial deposits. The soils have a moderately calcareous

superficial pH of 5-7. The community can be found up to 750m in altitude, and is generally restricted to areas of

cool, moist and cloudy climatic conditions in the uplands. The grassland is typically a plagioclimax vegetation

maintained by grazing (usually sheep) (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997). CG10 generally occurs as swards close-

cropped by grazing, and dominated by Agrostis capillaris and Festuca ovina. Other grasses tend to be more

specific to particular sub-communities. Of the dicotyledons the commonest species is Thymus polytrichus, which

tends to be abundant (Rodwell et al 1992; Cooper, 1997).

CG10, and specifically the CG10a Trifolium repens – Luzula campestris sub-community, is very rare within the

study area, only being found as a few very small patches on steep slopes within a wider dry heath and acid

grassland mosaic on the valley slopes in the headwaters of the Glenclach Burn, near Wanlockhead.

This CG10a grassland is closely associated with U4a grassland, both communities often grading into each other in

mosaics. In the study area both these communities share a similar assemblage of species, the separation

between them depending largely on the relative abundances of Thymus polytrichus (more common in CG10a)

and Galium saxatile (more common in U4a). The areas of CG10a mapped, at the time of survey, were easily

distinguished by a flecked bright pink sward with very abundant T. polytrichus.

5.9 Woodland and Scrub

5.9.1 W6 Alnus glutinosa – Urtica dioica woodland

Communities/sub-communities recorded: W6

W6 is a poorly-defined community of eutrophic moist soils, especially where there has been substantial

deposition of mineral matter, or on floodplain mires where enriched waters flood fen peat (Rodwell et al 1991;

Hall et al 2004). Alnus glutinosa is usually the most common tree, particularly on wetter soils, but is replaced by

Salix spp. or Betula pubescens on some sites. Unlike the other A. glutinosa woodland types (W5 and W7) the

field layer generally lacks the richer and tall swamp and fen species, and is instead replaced by a species-poor,

albeit quite distinctive, field layer. The most typical species is Urtica dioica. The few other typical species are

mainly characteristic of damp to moderately wet habitats (Rodwell et al 1991; Hall et al 2004).

Only a single very small thin strip of woodland most closely resembling W6 was recorded along the banks of the

Crawick Water by Sanquhar. This strip, only a couple of trees wide and sandwiched between the Crawick Water

and a semi-improved field, consisted of little more than scrubby Salix spp. growing over Urtica dioica and Galium

aparine.

5.9.2 W7 Alnus glutinosa – Fraxinus excelsior – Lysimachia nemoreum woodland


W7 is typical of moist to very wet mineral soils which are only moderately base-rich and not very eutrophic

(Rodwell et al 1991; Hall et al 2004). It is most extensive in the wetter parts of Britain, but usually occurs in soils

where there is no great tendency for peat accumulation. Alnus glutinosa is the main tree species, and is

commonly accompanied by other species such as Fraxinus excelsior, Betula spp., Salix spp. and Acer

pseudoplatanus. The field layer can be very varied; the wetness and nutrient status of the soil determines what

other species may occur, these being mainly grasses and herbaceous dicotyledons (Rodwell et al 1991; Hall et al

2004).

W7 is rare within the study area, only recorded as two very small stands amounting to little more than a short

strip or patch of riparian trees along a watercourse. These small stands are also species-poor and consist of a

thin canopy of Betula spp. and Salix spp. The field layer mainly consists of Juncus spp. and some Filipendula

ulmaria.

5.9.3 W9 Fraxinus excelsior – Sorbus aucuparia – Mercurialis perennis woodland


W9 is a community of permanently moist calcareous soils in the sub-montane climate of north-west Britain. It is

commonly found by streams and flush lines in the uplands, where the climate is cool, wet and windy (Rodwell et

al 1991; Hall et al 2004). In typical stands Fraxinus excelsior and Corylus avellana are the most abundant woody

species, and Betula pubescens and Sorbus aucuparia may be co-dominant. The field layer is usually a complex

mosaic, with no single species dominating, although Mercurialis perennis and Hyacinthoides non-scripta both

tend to be frequent. Other features distinctive of W9 include an abundance of Oxalis acetosella, various fern

species, and a well-developed bryophyte layer (Rodwell et al 1991; Hall et al 2004).

Three stands of W9 were recorded in the study area; the two most diverse stands are a strip on a steep slope

south of Nether Cog and an area in mixed broadleaved woodland on the slopes along the northern bank of the

Glensalloch Burn, south of Upper Cog.

The canopy within these more species-rich areas contains mixes of Betula spp., Fraxinus excelsior, Sorbus

aucuparia, Acer pseudoplatanus, Corylus avellana and Crataegus monogyna. The field layer contains variable

amounts of Mercurialis perennis along with a generally infrequent scattering of other associa

north lowther energy initiative national vegetation classification ... · small number of m32...

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