The impact of grazing by Irish Moiled and Dexter cattle on soft rush (Juncus effusus)

摘要

Although a certain level of soft rush (Juncus effusus) cover can be beneficial to wildlife for breeding waders in certain habitat types, when not managed, dense cover can affect the agricultural quality of land and eligibility for agri-environment schemes (where 30% cover is recommended). Cutting, herbicide application, fertiliser application and grazing management have all been used to control rushes in pasture (Lazenby, 1956; McCarthy, 1971). Merchant (1995) found that cutting rushes to ground level twice during the growing season for at least two consecutive years was the best control option, and grazing goats (Merchant, 1996) gave control. There are few accounts of the potential of cattle, (Bullock et al, 1998) especially rare and traditional breeds to control rushes in pasture. This project reports a trial on the effects of grazing density on soft rush using two native Irish breeds.