The author looks at the founding and development of national nature reserves in England, the reasons for their establishment, and the changing philosophies that have guided their management over the years. Using examples, he demonstrates the range and importance of these protected habitats, and describes the everyday workings of a reserve and its wardens.
Origins. Protecting Habitats. Managing the Reserve. Tread Softly for You Tread on My Orchids. Outdoor Laboratories. Last Chances. Downland and Heath. Wilderness and Wet. Meadows, Wood and the Coast. Signposts for the Future. Appendices. Selected Bibliography. Index.