Livestock
Old breeds of livestock are better able to digest poorer plants and grasses, such as those found on heathlands and wild flower meadows. This means they can graze common land and get plenty of nutrition without the need for additional feeding. Most modern cattle and sheep breeds have been bred to grow quickly on a high nutrient diet. They could start to lose condition on a low nutrient diet.
The livestock would be checked every day by a qualified person to ensure they were in good condition and not ailing in any way. We would also hope that if any member of the public had concerns that they would inform either the local authority or the livestock owner, whose details would be available. This would also apply to the fencing. Any problems would be dealt with, but the additional eyes and ears of the public will be invaluable in spotting any problems quickly.
The commons will benefit from grazing. The livestock will tend to favour the grasses and help to ensure they do not dominate the sward. Traditional breeds are better adapted to this kind of grazing. Often they are smaller and lighter than mainstream breeds and therefore less likely to cause damage to the ground.
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