The style of writing is lucid and informed by an extensive body of research that is both well interpreted and well referenced for anyone wishing to pursue the topics further. The author has the ability to cut straight to the central issues over the management of particular habitats. For example, the chapter on heathland clearly explains that the key to management success is control of the nutrient cycle within the ecosystem. The first three chapters outline issues and principles that are generic to all habitats such as control of succession and site management planning.

What the book excludes from its analysis is the whole array of political and cultural factors that also influence what style of management is adopted. Conservationists often like to believe that their line of work is largely informed by scientific principles, when in fact subjectivity and value judgements form an equally important component. However, I acknowledge that it is not the intention of this book to examine these issues and a book such as 'Contested Natures' provides an excellent exploration of this topic. As a practical guide to habitat management this is one of the best books on the market and anyone involved or interested in nature conservation would do well to read its invaluable advice.