Bristol Water is undertaking a two-year project to revitalize wildlife habitats around Blagdon Lake, a 440-acre reservoir in Somerset’s Mendip Hills. The core of this initiative is the revival of traditional hedgelaying techniques – a centuries-old practice designed to create dense, protective cover for endangered species.
The Decline of Farmland Wildlife
The project responds to a critical decline in farmland birds and mammals like hedgehogs. These species are losing habitat at an alarming rate due to modern agricultural practices and land management. Creating interconnected hedgerows provides essential nesting and foraging grounds, effectively slowing this trend.
How Hedgelaying Works
Hedgelaying isn’t simply planting new hedges. It’s a specialized craft where existing hedgerows are partially cut and woven over, encouraging thick, low-level regrowth. This creates a natural barrier that shelters wildlife during harsh winters and offers vital breeding sites. The method also allows more sunlight to reach the base of the hedge, stimulating denser growth.
Project Details and Timeline
So far, 1,800 meters of hedge have been laid by specialist Mike Reed and his team. Work pauses during nesting seasons to prevent disturbance. Bristol Water’s treescape officer, Simon Hughes, expects a “complete transformation” in the hedgerows within two years, with a marked increase in local wildlife populations.
“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.” – Mike Reed, hedge laying specialist
Why This Matters
Restoring hedgerows isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about ecological connectivity. Isolated wildlife populations are more vulnerable to extinction. By creating linked habitats, Blagdon Lake’s project aims to strengthen local ecosystems. This approach also reflects a growing trend of integrating traditional land management with modern conservation efforts.
The success of this project could serve as a model for other reservoirs and rural areas, demonstrating how targeted restoration can reverse biodiversity loss and preserve the delicate balance of natural habitats.
