Abstract
Aims The aim of the project is to develop and test a robust, repeatable and comprehensive evaluation framework for reporting and monitoring the direct and cumulative impacts of Environmental Stewardship ((O)ELS & (O)HLS) on the maintenance and enhancement of landscape character and quality at a variety of scales. This will use a series of quantitative and qualitative techniques that, taken together, will: i.Measure the impact of ES on the maintenance and enhancement of landscape character and quality/condition, allowing judgement to be made on the degree to which the ES landscape objective has been met ii.Assess counterfactuals that compare landscape effects with and without ES (the net effect of ES) and the landscape effects of ES compared to the Classic agri-environment schemes.’ iii.Evaluate the cumulative impact of ES (and the options within it) on landscape character and quality/condition; iv.Define lessons learned from the targeting and operation of ES that can be applied to landscape character and quality in the next agri-environment programme v.Be able to report at a range of appropriate scales and link in with existing landscape monitoring and research projects vi.Be consistent with the European Landscape Convention
United Kingdom