Burning
In order to maintain the biodiversity of the Mid-Cornwall Moors, it is important to manage the vegetation and ensure that scrub is removed. Willow and gorse in particular are highly invasive species. Much of this scrub is physically cut and removed. However, certain patches of dense undergrowth, covered by layers of thatched dead Molinia grass, can inhibit a variety of other plant species from becoming well established, including the marsh fritillary's host plant, devil's-bit scabious. In late winter, if conditions are right, patches of the moor are therefore burnt in a carefully controlled manner. Early indications are that marsh fritillaries favour areas that have been burnt in the previous winter.
Grazing
The main way in which the Project manages the vegetation of the Moors and prevents them from 'scrubbing-up' further is through grazing cattle. Typically, the Moors have been extensively grazed in the past, but today very few Commoner's grazing rights are actually taken up. Re-introducing grazing in such areas will form part of an ecologically and economically sustainable future for the Moors. After putting in the necessary infrastructure, the first members of our grazing herd arrived at the end of August 2004. We use traditional breeds that can cope with the tough terrain - Belted Galloways and British Whites.
