Grasslands Management

Managing the grasslands on Hell Wath is very important. Biodiverse and healthy grasslands support a wide range of grasses and wildflowers, which in turn attract a huge variety of insect life which then supports birds and small mammals. Maintaining healthy grasslands requires them to be cut at least once a year and the cuttings removed so they do not add nutrients back into the soil.

In an ideal world, grazing cattle would be introduced on site, as this is proven to be the best way of promoting healthy grasslands – and keeping Himalayan Balsam at bay ! As this is not currently possible on Hell Wath, mechanical solutions are needed to mow and clear the grassland areas. Whilst volunteers can scythe and rake small areas, the large meadows require a contractor. This year the Skell Valley Project have funded a contractor to visit the site in late October – see information on the poster here.

PLEASE KEEP YOUR DOGS SAFE BY KEEPING THEM ON A LEAD WHILST THE CONTRACTOR IS ON SITE

The contractor will tip the grass cuttings along the edges of the meadows, as far back into the scrub as possible. Whilst this is not ideal, this is the only practical and cost effective solution. Volunteers may be asked to help remove cuttings from any sensitive areas once the work is completed.

Thank you for your co-operation whilst this important work is undertaken on site.