Perhaps a happier note compared to some of our more recent
blogs…
The Dorset
Climate Action Network has launched the Great
Big Dorset Hedge Campaign in an effort to map, plant and join up sections
of hedgerow across Dorset. It is hoped that this will promote biodiversity and encourage
wildlife across the county.
The long-term project aims to create a network of connected
and managed hedgerows as wildlife friendly corridors and refuge areas, with the
help of the local communities along the way.
By inspiring communities to take part by becoming hedge
surveyors, coordinators or planters and providing the relevant training it is
hoped that it will bring people closer together as communities and closer to
nature.
Why are hedgerows so important?
Miles of ancient hedgerows have been removed to make way for
agriculture and development.
Hedgerows are thought of by many ecologists as an ecosystem
itself due to the range of biodiversity within. They provide a home for 80% of the
UK’s woodland birds, hedgehogs, many species of bats, great crested newt,
dormice and butterflies.
The re-planting of hedgerows is also thought to be important
in the battle against climate change due to their ability to pull carbon from
the atmosphere.
At this time of year especially, hedgerows provide nuts and
berries for all animals, and humans too!
Further benefits include flood prevention, soil protection
and shelter from wind and extreme weather for animals, crops etc.
There is currently government legislation in place to
protect hedgerows of key length, location or importance in England and Wales under
the Hedgerows Regulations 1997 and also the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The
requirements are quite specific so unfortunately not all hedgerows are
protected. We just need to keeping planting more so that they can be protected
eventually too!
Getting involved
For similar projects and their partners, take a look at Hedgelink UK.
Are there any projects like this taking place in your local
area? Why not take a look and let us know
what interests you and if we should highlight them on chXout®
blogs!