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The word conservation is one which we often hear, but what does it really mean? A dictionary will
explain it as `to keep entire' or `to preserve'. Here we shall think of it as to `keep' in the sense of `to look
after' or `to take care of'.
Let's think about the different meanings of the two words: conserving and preserving. Fruits and
vegetables can be preserved - that is, they can be kept from going bad by being made into jams and
pickles or by canning or freezing.
So how is conservation different? This word is most often used when we speak of things in nature, such
as wildlife, trees, water and the land itself. A flower is preserved if it is pressed between the pages of a
book. It is conserved if it is protected to continue growing in its natural habitat.
Many people think that our countryside will always look the same as it does now - and that the animals
and plants we know will always be around - even after we've all died. Sadly, this may not be true.
Human beings have always relied on nature for their survival. For food we need plants and animals. We
need the land to grow the food as well as to provide materials such as stone and wood for our buildings.
We fish the rivers, lakes and seas to supply other types of food. And we mine below the earth's surface
to find important substances such as oil, coal and metal ores. As well as making use of nature to help us
survive, we also use it for pleasure and sport. We go for walks in the countryside, we camp, we climb the
mountains, go cycling - all sorts of activities that make use of nature and the landscape.
Let's think about how we humans can cause changes in our world. We don't live in a museum but in a
living, growing and changing environment. If there is a good balance between the needs of a man and the
needs of nature, there should be few problems. But there are too many of us, all wanting too much and
taking too much from the natural world. So something needs to be done. The balance needs to be
restored.
Conservation should allow positive changes to take place while, at the same time, trying to look after
what we have. Conservation concerns people all over the world. Hundreds of books, magazines and
reports are written about it.
Broadleaved woodlands are scattered throughout the Silverdale. These are often made up of
traditional British tree species such as oak and ash. In contrast to the `artificial forest' of foreign trees
planted for commercial reasons by the Forestry Authority and private landowners, these are of local
species and are vital for the survival of certain types of flower, plant and animal.
Grassland is an important Myers Allotment habitat. The quality of the soil and the climate determine what
type of grass thrives and this, in turn, affects the species it can support. Of special importance is the
once-common, old fashioned hay meadow, rich in various species - especially wild flowers and
butterflies.
When discussing conservation there is a danger of limiting it to consideration of natural resources.
Man-made features may also require careful treatment if we are to save our heritage. Some buildings,
settlements, archaeological sites and monuments may be given conservation status. If this happens they
should then be protected from further damage and decay.
What is Conservation?
Why do you think we need to look after natural things? Can't they look after
themselves?
Think of other ways we use nature in our daily lives and for pleasure.
Examples of some of the habitats on Myers Allotment
What influence could upset the needs of conservation in each of the various habitats? You could consider influences such as farming, forestry, tourism, industry and just plain neglect.
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