Calcareous Grassland Creation on the Ridgeway
In 2022, the Hendred Estate decided to enhance biodiversity on their land and entered a voluntary Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) agreement. Their mission? Transforming five hectares of unproductive arable land along the historic Ridgeway into thriving calcareous grassland and establishing one hectare of native broadleaved woodland.
Fast forward to 2024, and the team at Ecoconsult Ltd revisited the site to assess progress. Here’s what they uncovered:
🌼 Flora Flourishing
68% of the seeded plant species have now emerged in the sward, up from 61% in 2023.
10 key lowland calcareous grassland species have successfully taken root, including kidney vetch, lady’s bedstraw, and oxeye daisy.
🐇 Fauna Challenges
While the grassland flourished, the native woodland faced a setback. Local hares took a liking to the planted saplings, damaging nearly half of them. The saplings have now been replaced and protected with tree guards.
Key Lessons Learned
⏳ Patience pays off: Calcareous grasslands don’t transform overnight. Some species can take years to fully establish, requiring long-term commitment and monitoring.
🛠️ Prepare for the unexpected: Whether it’s voracious hares or other surprises, having a contingency plan is vital.
💚 The reward is real
This project proves the power of collaboration and careful planning in delivering meaningful, long-term biodiversity gains. 🌍
Why It Matters
Projects like this highlight the potential of Biodiversity Net Gain initiatives to create meaningful, long-term environmental benefits.
Are you inspired to explore similar projects on your land? Let’s work together to create spaces where nature can thrive!