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A
survey of the peat stratigraphy of seven 'bog woodland'
sites in Scotland
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Seven mire sites identified by previous workers as
'bog woodland' were selected for detailed stratigraphical
analysis. The sites were selected in order to encompass
a climatic gradient from the hyperoceanic west through
the Cairngorms to the north-east . All but one of the
sites have been selected as candidate Special Area of
Conservations (cSAC).
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Hydrological
Studies
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Throughout the summer of 1999, an extensive hydrological
survey of all the Project bog woodland sites was undertaken.
Studies of aerial photographs, early maps and estate
records have helped identify historical trends. As well
as researching the history of management of the cSAC
and the surrounding area, a detailed picture of the
hydrological condition of the whole area is provided
for each site. The findings of the survey are greatly
helping partners to specify the appropriate management
prescriptions for the long term benefit of sites.
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Conon
Historical Study
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Several of the main factors influencing the hydrology
of the River Conon and therefore the distribution of
alluvial woodland are examined. The impacts of deforestation,
the construction of hydroelectric dams, the building
of floodbanks and the installation of field drainage
systems are assessed. Consideration is given to management
options which relate to local impacts. This, along with
a separate assessment of the alluvial woodland resource,
will inform the development of the Conon Strategy.
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Classification
of Bog Woodland Habitats
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The development of a sub-classification of bog woodland
types is described, in conjunction with a review and
analysis of past restoration work carried out at Abernethy.
Three sub-classes within the generic term 'bog woodland'
are identified: wooded bogs, bog woodland and woodland
bogs. Data from permanent quadrats recorded in 1992
and 1997 were collated and analysed to identify trends
in the development of vegetation in response to restoration
treatments at Abernethy.
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Age
Structure
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The age structure of Scots pine Pinus sylvestris
bog woodland is investigated at four sites in north
east Scotland to clarify whether these examples of the
habitat are stable or transient. Individual tree age
cannot be predicted from general equations relating
age to height or diameter. Tree growth rates and branching
may be used as indicators of the degree of alteration
caused by disturbance and of whether the site is likely
to succeed to closed canopy woodland.
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Final Report
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The objectives, methods, management and outputs of
the Project are fully detailed and assessed. Comprehensive
descriptions of activities undertaken at each of the
Project sites are provided. A draft methodology for
bog woodland site condition monitoring is included.
Accompanying maps will be available soon.
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The residual alluvialwoodland
of the River Conon
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This report will be available soon.
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