Conservation grazing at Chimney Meadows Nature Reserve

Louise King, Reserve Manager at Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust's Chimney Meadows, explains how they manage their hay meadows for wildlife, using low-input livestock breeds.

[@woodlandsedge3456]

I’m currently working on a field study of using geese to graze off a 4 acre meadow and the results have been positive going into our 4 th year and we have noticed some big changes over the years in bio diversity fingers crossed in 2022 for more flowers

[@hazellagriculturalservices3614]

Lovely, farmers would love to be able to have designated conservation grazing areas, however it is not viable, particularly on small holdings where farming is the sole income. Whether or not meadow hay is 'better' for animal's is subjective, it certainly adds flavour with a variety of flavours via a variety of plants and flowers. Furthermore, conservation is extremely important, but whilst reporting this, viability and designating land out of food production, which in turn will increase food costs to the public should at least be mentioned, for a well rounded report.

[@Agricology]

Thank you for your comment, it is true that this is an extreme example where the land is being managed for a wildlife reserve rather than for farming. However, It is possible to integrate the two together to run a viable and profitable business whilst aiding conservation of grassland plants and animals. For example, have a look at Mel and Jonty's farmer profile on Agricology: ow.ly/FYy630d7pDz. They are producing Pasture Fed livestock whilst aiming to restore species rich limestone grassland. Diversification on their farm has helped to support farm income. Although I do appreciate that this is not on the small holding scale.

[@hazellagriculturalservices3614]

Thank you for your comments, please note the caveat at the end of their profile introduction 'Income is supplemented by a small DIY livery on the farm and educational activity'. Furthermore, their website indicates their farm holds events, www.conygreefarm.co.uk/ which I think is fantastic, not knocking it at all, it is a necessity now, but it is important to paint a realistic picture to the British public and not demonise farmers who cannot afford to do conservational schemes or be organic. I think most people would find it very difficult to live on just (10ha of stubble/fallow, unharvested cereals, and insect/pollinator rich field margins). Herb rich leys (14ha). Rare breed livestock (60 Cotswold sheep, some crossed with a Hampshire, and 12 Traditional Hereford cows) are our grazing tools producing premium beef, lamb and hogget. We also finish a few traditional breed pigs a year, on its own!!