Studies on botany and environmental management relations on a wooded pasture between Pénzesgyőr and Hárskút villages

Wooded pastures are not only important parts of the Hungarian landscape, but they have preserved historical farming methods. Since the beginning of grazing activities in forests, humans and grazing animals have continuously formed their state. Forests of lower quality were ideal places to provide food and shade for grazing animals. Authors experienced such a sight during the first visit in the research area. A landscape with picturesque view and various, mosaic-like structure was recognized with huge old seed trees. As the territory is so diverse, authors investigated from different aspects such as landscape history, botany, forestry, nature conservation, landscape ecology and grassland management. Grazing of the research site was abandoned in the early 1990’s, therefore, the effects of natural succession are clearly visible now in this habitat and cultural landscape, being in close-to-natural condition despite the fact that it had been created by human activities. As a result of abandonment, the typical landscape – dominated by ancient seed trees – is on the way of disappearing. Authors’ aim was to explore the history and the present botanical state of the area and to follow the succession progress of the forests. By planning a habitat network and preparing a land use plan for the future, authors tried to ensure the preservation of this wooded pasture by ensuring ideas for nature conservation and sustainability. Organic matter content plays an important role as nutrient (Ercoli et al. 2006) and shallow soils have extreme water regime (Birkas et al. 2005). Any activity that reduces the soil cover by removing the vegetation is unfavorable, increases the effect of erosion processes, especially considering the effect of future climate change (Mudri et al. 2005). Observations on vegetation of pastures and its changes have got a high importance, especially in case of grass species (Poaceae), since it is mainly these species that ensure the most valuable forage for grazing animals (Sule et al. 2006. Penksza et al. 2005a, 2005b, 2005c).