In this unique book an international cast of authors highlight all aspects of the problems associated with farming and bird conservation. Discussion ranges from the socio-political pressures on farm policy to the effects of management on a variety of bird species throughout the more and less developed parts of the European Union. Potential changes in the Common Agricultural Policy are considered in terms of how they have been and can be tailored to benefit birds and wildlife through such initiatives as the new Agri-Environment Regulation. Farming and Birds in Europe addresses the need for policy efforts to focus on both the concerns of conservation and sensible farm production in a timely manner. An opportunity not to be missed is at hand, and this book provides much of the importance in seeing that a sensible conclusion is reached, both for the needs of the farmer and consumer and for the birds and wildlife of the European countryside. Key Features * Provides a detailed, up-to-date account of n Common Agricultural Policy and Bird Conservation * Important resource for aid in developing land use policy * Includes an integrated approach to policy making

Given the underlying topography, the scenery over most of Britain has been created largely by human activities. Over the centuries, landscapes have been continually modified as human needs and desires have changed.

This publication contains a number of reports prepared for a high-level conference on issues relating to biological and landscape diversity in European agricultural policies, held in Paris in June 2002. The conference made recommendations to states and relevant organisations and provided input to policy work and programmes within the framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Ministerial Conference on Environment for Europe , the Convention to Combat Desertification and the EU's Common Agricultural Policy and national policy developments.

This report considers the signifiance of corridors for high priority bird species within the development of Pan-European Ecological Network. This involves a brief review of existing research and policy, the testing of recent corridor ideas and typologies, the application of these ideas to fifteen birds "species of European Conservation Concern" and discussion of the next steps for research and policy development.

Grasslands are an important element of European nature. About half of Europe's endemic species depend on grasslands, whether in mountains, lowlands, river plains or coastal areas. Many grasslands originate in traditional agricultural landscapes. Modern intensification, however, brings many of these ecosystems under threat. 'Grasslands in Europe' is a tribute to these important ecosystems. It was written by an international team of grassland experts, who describe twenty-four case studies from countries in all of Europe - ranging from the grasslands of Gotland and #land (Sweden) to the Spanish Dehesa, and from the hay meadows of the British Pennine Dales to the steppes of Turkish Anatolia. Together, these case studies provide a fascinating glimpse into the various European grasslands, their value for nature, culture and agriculture, and the threats they are facing today. The accessible text as well as the rich illustrations will appeal to a wide audience. Grasslands in Europe contains a large number of stunning full-colour photographs of grassland landscapes, species and cultural history. It also contains many maps and infographics. Thematic chapters provide essential background information on topics such as grassland fauna, the history of agriculture, grassland communities, and the connection between grasslands and climate. The book also analyses the opportunities and risks of EU policy to conserve these grasslands. It offers a farmer-centred outlook to manage and to maintain the European grasslands of high nature value.

This book critically examines the development and current structure of European Union agri-environmental measures at a substantive level. Examining the measures in an integrated manner, showing how they interrelate linking different aspects of European Union agricultural law and policy, this volume examines the legislation adopted at European Union level as well as the impact of particular national measures to implement that legislation. Where appropriate, comparisons are drawn between the manner in which European Union legislation has been implemented among various Member States. Critically assessing European Union and national measures, in the light of other policy pressures such as the influence of world trade agreements and the political pressures exerted by the agricultural sector within the national legal systems of individual Member States, this volume is a valuable resource for academics researching and practitioners working in the areas of European Union environmental and agricultural law.

Changes in market organisation, climatic conditions and societal demands on food quality, animal welfare and environmental quality have created new conditions for farming families as well as for researchers and policy makers. New social, technical and economic solutions are needed for farming and rural areas. This book presents new perspectives for farms, farm products and rural areas, many of which were collectively developed by coalitions of farmers, farmer representatives, researchers, civilians and/or policy makers. Contributions are made from those involved in crop and animal production worldwide offering sections on natural resources management, development of sustainable rural systems, future perspectives for farming families, knowledge systems in transition and learning processes in multi-stakeholder processes. This unique collection of contributions, presenting insights from bio-physical as well as social sciences, shows where practice meets analysis and reflection and offers new perspectives for rural areas throughout the world.