Studies on the impact of paths on the dune vegetation at Winterton, Norfolk, England

A study was made of paths on a dune system at Winterton, Norfolk, by ground and aerial surveys and a map produced of the 35 km of major paths in 104 ha of dune. Experiments were carried out on the resistance to trampling of a tall Festuca ovina-Carex arenaria sward. Estimates were made of the comparative vulnerability of other plant communities. The range extended from Ammophila arenaria, which was 10 x as vulnerable, to a short rabbit-grazed sward, only 1 3 − 1 4 x as vulnerable. The more vulnerable habitats unfortunately attract more people. 42% of the paths at Winterton occur on the steep slopes dominated by Ammophila. Comparisons are made with a similar site at Meijendel where greater recreational pressure necessitated laid-out paths and fencing to control visitors. It is suggested that if visitor pressure increases at Winterton, similar management may also be required there.