Summary
A survey was carried out of Loch Lomond Regional Park between July and November 1993 amounting to abut 320km2 (excluding areas previously surveyed). The whole area was mapped using Phase 1 habitat codes and plant communities mostly in the uplands have been classified according to the National Vegetation Classification (NVC). The results are presented in the form of maps which illustrate the distribution and extent of habitat types and communities. Target notes are used to explain details of particular sites of interest.
The most extensive habitats overall are grassland and wet heath and there are substantial tracts of blanket bog. Other habitats of more restricted occurrence include dry heath, marshy grassland and montane heaths. Within these broad categories over 30 different plant communities were identified, some with distinct sub-communities. All the community types found are described in detail and their distribution and variation within the area discussed. Some of these are characteristic of the oceanic north-west Highlands, at the southern limit of their range here and are often relatively poorly developed examples.
Virtually all the vegetation types have been influenced by management. Most noticeable are the prominence of grassland in the Luss Hills due to a long history of sheep grazing there and modification or loss of mire communities through draining and burning especially towards the south of the area.
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