What Is Land Management — and Why We Need to Use Our Space Wisely

When we imagine a nature reserve, many of us picture untouched wilderness — forests, wetlands, coastlines, and open spaces where wildlife thrives freely. But behind every beautiful reserve is careful, ongoing work. My name is Vera, and I am part of BirdLife Malta’s Land Management Team. We manage four nature reserves across Malta, and in this article, I’d like to share what land management really means, why it matters, and how we make our reserves safe, educational, and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. 

What Is Land Management? 

Land management is the practice of planning, caring for, and using land responsibly so that both people and wildlife can benefit — not only today, but for generations to come. Every piece of land matters (especially in Malta). We care for it gently, with minimal intrusion, while emphasising the protection of local, indigenous species. It’s all about balance. 

Land Management in a Nature Reserve 

Managing a reserve means looking after habitats, wildlife, and visitor areas in a way that protects biodiversity while also allowing people to connect with nature. It includes: 

• Maintaining healthy ecosystems 

• Managing water levels and vegetation 

• Restoring wetlands, woodlands, and other habitats 

• Controlling invasive species 

• Planning visitor access safely and sustainably 

In short, sustainable land management ensures that natural areas continue to support wildlife while remaining accessible and meaningful for the public. 

Key Goals of Good Land Management 

1. Protecting biodiversity 

Reserves provide safe homes for native plants and animals. We monitor bird populations, remove invasive species, and restore habitats to keep ecosystems stable. 

2. Preventing degradation 

Climate change, erosion, and human impact can damage fragile habitats. Management includes erosion control, responsible water use, and waste reduction. 

3. Creating safe and educational access 

Clear trails, signs, observation areas, and hides make it possible for visitors to enjoy nature without disturbing wildlife. 

4. Supporting community wellbeing 

Reserves are open classrooms, peaceful spaces, and social meeting points — valuable to families, schools, and especially older citizens. 

Managing Spaces for Both Wildlife and People 

Good reserve design invites people in without pushing nature out. This is done through zoning: 

• Core zones: Quiet, protected areas with limited human access. 

• Visitor zones: Paths, hides, and picnic areas. 

• Buffer zones: Areas that shield wildlife from noise and disturbance. 

Tools and Techniques We Use 

Modern land management combines traditional methods with new technology. Rangers still repair dry-stone walls, clear invasive plants, and manage water levels by hand. But they also use drones, camera traps, and digital mapping to study habitats and monitor changes. 

Making Nature Accessible for Everyone 

Nature should be enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities. Accessibility is now a key part of management planning, including: 

• Flat, non-slip paths 

• Frequent shaded resting spots 

• Large, readable signage 

• Accessible toilets and ramps 

• Spaces that stimulate the senses through sound, touch, and scent 

These features make nature meaningful even for visitors with limited mobility or sensory challenges. 

Education and Community Involvement 

A well-managed reserve is a living classroom. Children, adults, volunteers, and seniors all learn from it — and can contribute to it. Support can come from: 

• Staying on marked paths 

• Reducing litter 

• Joining clean-up events 

• Planting native species 

• Taking part in monitoring projects 

The more people engage, the healthier the reserve becomes. 

Caring for Spaces That Care for Us 

Nature reserves offer fresh air, peace, and a chance to reconnect with the natural world. Good land management ensures these spaces remain healthy, safe, and accessible — for wildlife and for all who visit. 

By caring for the land thoughtfully, we ensure that nature continues to care for us. 

Resourses:  

• ERA (Environment and Resources Authority, Malta). Guidelines for Nature Reserve Management and Invasive Species Control. 

• European Commission (2022). EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030: Bringing Nature Back into Our Lives. 

• BirdLife International (2023). Best Practices in Protected Area Management. 

• CareMalta & BirdLife Malta (2025). ROOTED Multiplier Event Report – Salina Nature Reserve. 

• Wetlands International (2023). Managing Wetlands for Climate Resilience and Community Engagement.