Assessing conservation status of calcareous grassland in two French military training areas in Natura 2000 context

Abstract

Abstract Calcareous grasslands are habitats of high conservation value. These rich habitats are declining notably due to agriculture and habitat fragmentation. In France, calcareous grasslands may be found on Military Training Areas (MTA), which protect them from intensive agriculture and urban development. By analysing their floristic structure and composition, the aim of this publication is to determine the conservation status of grassland on two French MTA, following a militarisation gradient. Vegetation characteristics appeared different according to the level of military activities. Military activities and their related management, favour rich and diversified grasslands in the good conservation state. They also allow the creation of a mosaic of habitats within the grasslands with the presence of overgrown areas. Thus, MTAs appeared to present good potential for preserving the remaining calcareous grassland in France.