Separating research and executive functions
The Nature Conservancy, created in 1949, combined research, advice and site protection and entered NERC in 1965. Reorganization in 1973 placed executive and advisory functions in the NCC.
Research remaining within NERC formed part of the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology. The NCC nevertheless commissioned investigations needed for management and advice.
Sites and land management
The NCC designated and managed National Nature Reserves and notified and protected Sites of Special Scientific Interest. These tasks involved particular habitats, property arrangements and management practices.
Reserves could be managed through ownership, leases and agreements rather than a single ownership model. Surveys and management records supported the work.
References: [2]
Scientific evidence and public duties
The NCC advised government and other organizations and provided public information. Research informed consideration of agriculture, forestry and development impacts.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 added responsibilities concerning SSSIs, endangered-species advice and marine nature reserves.
Reorganization in 1991
Separate bodies in England, Scotland and Wales replaced the NCC in 1991, strengthening country-level implementation.
The Joint Nature Conservation Committee coordinated wider scientific and international issues, including comparable survey methods, monitoring and site standards. Delivery and shared coordination became distinct institutional levels.
References: [1]