Gower Commons and Controlled Fire

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Controlled Fire

Why are the commons burnt?

Traditionally, the commons were managed by a combination of burning and grazing. The burning removes much of the old dead grasses and woody plants. The ash created returns some nutrient to the soil, which encourages a fresh new growth of vegetation which the livestock can then graze.

The burning of common land is governed by the Heather and Grass Burning Code which sets out how and when commons should be burnt. This can be downloaded for reference here

Some fires are not undertaken by commoners and these can cause problems threatening wildlife, grazing, livestock, public and property. Illegal, uncontrolled fires on Sites of Special Scientific Interest can attract fines of up to £20,000. If you are in doubt about a fire please call the Fire Brigade. If it is a controlled burn they will be aware. In Wales the Fire Brigade spend £14,000,000 pounds a year in tackling illegal grass fires. Click here for what the law says.

For more information on the problems associated with uncontrolles fire, click here.

Proactive Approach

Controlling flammable plant matter such as gorse and bracken
Cutting fire breaks	This photo shows the effectiveness of the fire break, with the unburnt strip between the plots