ABSTRACT
It is argued here that knowledge of landscape history must underpin any future conservation plans. Landscapes have been subject to change over time and the recreation of wood-pasture, not to mention areas of ‘re-wilding’, can now only be applied to fairly limited areas of countryside. The use of seasonal pasture played an important economic and social role throughout history, and was maintained in Norman forests — although hunting was an elitist activity it paradoxically sustained those of lower status in the community. Today, grazing remains essential if this type of traditional woodland landscape is to be conserved.
