An investigation of a wetland ecosystem: Cley Marshes in Norfolk.

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An investigation of a wetland ecosystem: Cley Marshes in the Norfolk.

How the ecosystem is managed

The Cley marshes are exceptionally well managed. The marsh is extremely well managed because it is a very rare habitat, where species breed each year. Each of the four habitats within the ecosystem are being managed, on of these are the reed beds. The reed beds are cut every 2/3 years on a rotational cycle to vary the age of the reeds. This enables the biodiversity to greaten. Furthermore, silt is collected around the base of the reeds and dries out, which allows other plants to root; this is not good quality for the wildlife so they are separated. Additionally, the reeds are sold to gain income for the charity that owns the marshes. This makes the area sustainable as the land can support itself.

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     As well as the reed beds being managed the grazing marshes are also managed. In the grazing marshes, the grassland is grazed from the end of May until October. The grassland is grazed at the end of May because of the birds nesting. Moreover grazing helps keep the vegetation down and increases the biodiversity as further plants can receive sunlight and therefore grow. The land is grazed by tenant farmers, who also bring income to the land.

Managing the drainage ditches plays a significant role in the ecosystem. The drainage ditches are dredged to keep plants out ...

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