Appendix 1 - Land management options - Hedgerows
For this option, overall aims, management requirements and relationships with ELS and OELS options are explained. The exact management requirements for this option, including optional prescriptions, will be negotiated with you, and then included in your agreement. The prescriptions text between square brackets may be changed by advisers to suit particular situations and management needs.
Hedgerows provide shelter and food for many target species of farmland birds, insects and mammals and also provide important corridors for wildlife movement across the farmed landscape.
In many parts of England, hedgerows are an intrinsic part of the farmed landscape. The particular mix of shrub and tree species in a hedgerow, which reflects both the age of the hedgerow and local management customs, contributes to local landscape character and distinctiveness. Hedgerows are a living part of our history and many are archaeological features in their own right. They provide a record of our use of the countryside over the centuries.
Traditionally, hedgerows were used to keep animals in or out and to mark ownership boundaries and rights of way. There is good evidence that hedgerows, and in particular hedgerow trees, were an important source of firewood. Hedgerows still provide fruit, berries and nuts for people as well as birds, and offer cover for game.
Maintenance of hedgerows of very high environmental value HB12
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This option maintains hedgerows that support target species of farmland birds, insects or mammals, or which make a significant contribution to the local landscape character and/or are historically important boundaries.
The option will allow management to be tailored to meet the specific requirements of an identified target species or create a diversity of hedgerow structure across the farm to benefit target species. It may also be used to manage hedgerows in the local style and custom, to strengthen the local historic landscape character. The option will promote the development of a balanced tree population, where this is appropriate to the local landscape.
Where required, works such as planting up gaps or establishing new hedgerow trees may be funded by a Capital Works Plan.
View prescriptions and indicators of success
Page last modified:
21 March, 2006
Page published: 3 March, 2005