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Why an Action
Plan?
Selsey Biodiversity
Partnership
Aims
Scope of Plans
Coastal Vegetated
Shingle
Hedgerows
Reed Beds and
Saline Lagoons
Trees,Woodland
and Scrub
Road Verges
Grassland
Rifes and Ditches
Urban Area
Ponds
Awareness and
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Future
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SELSEY ACTION FOR WILDLIFE


A Local Biodiversity Action Plan
For Selsey Parish

tel.01243 607104



GRASSLAND


Habitat Definition
Unimproved grassland is a product of traditional land management by our ancestors over many years. It supports particular grasses and wildflowers which define it. Semi-improved grasslands are those which have been ploughed and/or had fertilisers added in the past, significantly reducing species diversity. Agriculturally improved grasslands may only contain a very few common wildflowers [Sussex Neutral and Acid Grasslands HAP p.2]. Amenity grassland is included in the URBAN section.
Current Status and Distribution
Most of the grassland has been improved to a greater or lesser extent. Only Crablands Farm Meadow, designated as an SNCI for its botanical importance, remains largely unimproved. However some areas of semi-improved grassland have been identified and are worthy of further investigation. Several fields along the southern edge of the nature reserve have been put into set-aside, enhancing their biodiversity.
Importance
'Unimproved neutral grasslands are extremely rich wildlife habitats' [Sussex HAP p.4]. They contain numerous wildflowers and grasses which in turn support many invertebrates. These and small mammals provide food for larger predators such as stoats, weasels, bats and barn owls. 'The conservation of the last remaining unimproved resource remains of the highest priority for action since by definition unimproved grasslands are ancient and unrecreatable' [Sussex HAP p. 13]. Present habitat scarcity and local site variation mean that here in Sussex many of the remaining sites have unique plant assemblages with important local characteristics. Even small sites are important as refuges for previously common but now threatened species' [Sussex HAP p. 5] . Semi-improved grasslands may still retain valuable wildflower and grass species which make them of high conservation value.
Local Significance
Field names [1672, 1778 and 1849 Tithe map] suggest that there was once an extensive area of grazing marsh right along the western boundary of the parish from the sea to the Ferry. Aerial surveys [WSCC] show a dramatic loss in unimproved grassland, from 117 hectares in 1971 to 2 hectares in 1991.
Threats
· SNCI: isolation, new developments bordering the site, trampling, lack of traditional management e.g. grazing
· New housing developments
· Lack of appreciation of wildlife value
Objectives
1. Identify all remaining areas of semi-improved grassland and asses their wildlife value.
2. Help to prevent the loss or decline in quality of unimproved and semi-improved grassland sites. Encourage enhancement of semi-improved grassland.
3. Encourage and assist in the creation of meadow areas on suitable sites - see URBAN and ROAD VERGES .
4. Raise awareness of the value of grassland sites.

ACTIONS



Sussex HAP targets Objective and action proposed in Sussex
Neutral and Acid Grassland HAP		 Action proposed in Selsey Parish
All remaining important sites to be documented and monitored.

Secure appropriate long-term management of known existing habitat resource.

Prevent further decline through loss, neglect or damage.

 Raise the profile of unimproved grasslands amongst residents and visitors, and the involvement of local owners and residents in their protection where appropriate. [objective]

Identify and record all unimproved and semi-improved grassland sites and their quality.

 In partnership with the landowner and WSCC, explore ways in which the community can assist in the management and monitoring of Crablands Farm Meadow, and raise awareness of the value of this site.

Ensure that all areas of semi-improved grassland are surveyed using local and county expertise.

Research the history of important grassland sites.


For any opinions or feedback or any
other information please contact
telephone 01243 607104
or email ssavill@lineone.net

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© Selsey Parish Map Group June 2002