The historical ecology of vegetation change in Dovedale (Derbyshire and Staffordshire)
This dissertation describes a study of historical vegetation change in Dovedale. Within the framework of historical ecology, and with a focus on the use of postcards, it uses a combination of documentary research and fieldwork. The aims of the study are to examine the change since about 1860, and co...
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| Format: | Thesis (University of Nottingham only) |
| Language: | English English |
| Published: |
2018
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| Online Access: | https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/51684/ |
| Summary: | This dissertation describes a study of historical vegetation change in Dovedale. Within the framework of historical ecology, and with a focus on the use of postcards, it uses a combination of documentary research and fieldwork. The aims of the study are to examine the change since about 1860, and consider its implications, while evaluating the use of postcards as a research method.
A review of historical ecology and its methodologies is followed by a consideration of the use of postcards and other photographs in research. An account of the White Peak and research into its vegetation sets the scene for an introduction to the study area. Each of the methods and sources of evidence used in the study are described, and their results presented. Interpretations of the postcard evidence draw on the results from the other methods and sources, and the findings are discussed.
The study confirms that Dovedale is considerably more wooded than it was in 1860, largely due to a decline in grazing by livestock. The character of much of the woodland has also changed due to the removal of conifers. Postcards can show much of this change, but their usefulness is improved when combined with other methods and sources. Knowledge of change in the past can help put the challenge of future change into perspective. |
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