This restoration project involves 5.7 hectares of former silage fields that are to be re-seeded and managed as traditional hay meadow pasture.
The goal is to not only re-create an endangered species rich habitat, but to create a seed resource to help toward Longcliffe's future restoration projects.
Hay meadows were once a common sight across much of Derbyshire, but most have disappeared in recent years through agricultural intensification. This habitat supports a wide range of wildlife including ground nesting birds, invertebrates, small mammals and a wide range of flora. Hay Meadows are a National Priority Habitat under UK HAP's (UK Habitat Action Plans).
11/08/2011 – The four acre field sown this spring has been topped recently to control the rapid growth of annual weeds and to encourage grass growth. There is now good ground cover considering the poor growing conditions this year. We look forwrd to the continued development of the hay meadow through the autumn.
19/04/2011 – The four acres of land previously worked down to create a seedbed has now been sown with the hay meadow seed and has been rolled in. We eagerly await the results of our work.
05/04/2011 – Four acres of land with the topsoil removed has been worked down to create a seedbed through the use of chain harrows. Large stones and rocks have been removed to aid future mangement of the site. Sowing of the hay meadow seed is expected to be later in the week, weather permitting.
06/01/2011 – Another area of land from which topsoil has been removed has been identified as another potential site for hay meadow creation in the spring of 2011. This site will also aid overall quarry restoration knowledge.
06/01/2011 – The hay meadow restoration project has been put on hold until spring 2011 due to weather conditions and weed control issues on the proposed site.
07/09/2010 – Seed collected after being processed
07/09/2010 – Seed harvested from Hartington Meadows
12/07/2010 – 0.2 hectares to be managed and improved from current state, 1.2 hectares set for complete restoration.
01/06/2010 – Date set for field assessment. (species identification)
25/05/2010 – Outline management plan for hay meadow restoration
24/05/2010 – Grassland areas designated for restoration