Ancient Hedge Laying to Enhance Biodiversity
A water company is employing traditional hedge laying techniques to boost biodiversity near a lake.
Bristol Water aims to enhance wildlife diversity at Blagdon Lake, a 440-acre reservoir and trout fishery located in the Mendip Hills, Somerset.
The area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The project involves restoring thinning hedgerows by laying trimmed base stems horizontally.
"So many of our farmland and countryside birds are endangered, as are hedgehogs, so creating these spaces for them to live and nest in is more important than ever."
Mike Reed, a hedge laying specialist leading the team, emphasized the ecological importance of the work.
"Hedge laying is a historical craft with a strong local tradition and I'm proud to be passing it onto the next generation through this work."
This method allows light to penetrate the base of hedgerows, encouraging dense, vertical regrowth. Such growth provides essential cover for animals and birds during winter months.
Conventional hedge trimming methods, often involving heavy machinery, tend to leave hedges sparse. This results in less favorable habitats for local wildlife, including birds, hedgehogs, and insects.
Approximately 1,800 meters of hedge have been laid to date. However, the project will pause during nesting seasons to avoid disturbing birds and other species.
The initiative is planned to span two years, during which a variety of species are expected to return to the area.
"It won't be long before we will start to see a complete transformation in the hedgerows and it's exciting for all of us at Bristol Water to be a part of creating this significant and important change."
Simon Hughes, treescape officer at Bristol Water, expressed optimism about the project's impact.
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