Module description
The management of habitats is a common component of vocational countryside management. The professional approach of today's manager is to use a management by objectives process that both plans and justifies the proposed habitat management.
This module has three subdivisions:

1. An examination of the motives for wildlife conservation and the definitions of native or indigenous species and
semi-natural habitats.
2. A critical analysis of a 'management by objectives' process for the management of countryside/wildlife resources.
3. The evaluation and management of wildlife species and habitats.

These subdivisions will be studied using case studies and examples from UK and European sources. There will be a vocational emphasis in the module which will look at current practice of governmental and non-governmental organisations. The teaching will be augmented by field visits to sites managed for wildlife conservation.

Outcomes
Outcome 1

The concepts and application of wildlife conservation in the UK are understood.

Performance criteria:

a. The justification or motives for countryside conservation in the UK are understood.
b. The concept of a native or indigenous species and a semi-natural habitat are understood.
c. Conservation designations are evaluated.

Ranges:
UK Species and habitats.
National and international designations.

Outcome 2

The components and functioning of an integrated management planning process are understood.

Performance criteria:
a. A recognised management planning process is used.
b. Management plans are evaluated for their defined purpose.
c. Countryside resources are evaluated with given criteria.

Ranges:
Criteria from statutory conservation organisations.
Countryside resources to include species, habitats and recreational potential.

Outcome 3

Management prescriptions for the management and creation/recreation of wildlife habitats are produced.

Performance criteria:
a. The management needs of species and habitats are assessed.
b. Creative conservation options are applied in appropriate situations.
c. Conservation options are selected and justified.

Ranges:
UK native species and habitats.
Invasive native and introduced species.