Home / Environment / National Trust Plants 23km of Hedges for Wildlife
National Trust Plants 23km of Hedges for Wildlife
15 Mar
Summary
- Over 23km of hedges to be planted or restored at Wimpole Hall.
- Restoration aims to create wildlife habitats and support farm functions.
- The project will take place over a 10-year period starting in 2023.
A significant 10-year hedgerow restoration programme has been initiated at the National Trust's Wimpole Hall farm in Cambridgeshire. The conservation charity plans to plant or restore about 23km (14 miles) of hedges across its 1,000-hectare estate.
This ambitious undertaking is designed to benefit both wildlife and the farm's operations. The restored hedges will provide essential habitat for various bird species and insects, while also serving as firebreaks and protective barriers against soil erosion.
The Wimpole Estate's farm and countryside manager, Dave Hassall, highlighted the cumulative benefits, stating that each restored section strengthens the entire network. The program, developed in 2023, will involve coppicing, laying, and planting new native trees and shrubs.
During the past winter, staff and volunteers successfully planted 30,000 trees and restored 2.3km (1.4 miles) of hedgerow. This ongoing effort is crucial for making the landscape more resilient to climate change and ensuring its continued functioning as a connected ecosystem.
