| Amazing Grazing
The East Anglian landscape is as beautiful as it is
diverse. From the ‘semi-continental’ climate of The Brecks, to the
rich tapestry of waterways and marshland found in the Broads, its
picture-postcard appeal draws thousands of visitors to the region each
year. Yet the face of this countryside has been shaped by thousands of
years of farming activity. One such activity that has dramatically
altered the landscape throughout history is grazing.
How has grazing changed the
countryside?
Most of our ‘natural’ heritage is, in fact,
semi-natural in the sense that it is made up of collections of native
plant and animal species which, over thousands of years, have adapted
to man’s farming activities, including grazing. These communities are
now reliant on man’s continuing management of their habitats if they
are to survive. Activities such as grazing and mowing are crucial to
maintaining the quality of certain types of habitat.
What does grazing achieve?
When animals are grazing they keep down
choking invasive tall grasses, scrub and, sapling trees in
environmentally sensitive areas. This clearance allows for a more
species-rich spread of other grasses and wildflowers in valuable
habitats such as grasslands, heathlands and fens.
Cattle, sheep and horses also turn over the ground with their hooves
and, of course, produce natural fertilisers for the plantlife!
What animals are used?
Mostly cattle, sheep and horse, but even
rabbits too!
Why is so much countryside
undergrazed today?
Since the war an increasing shift from mixed
farming systems to the more profitable arable has meant that in many
areas grazing animals are no longer found. The result is many fragile
habitats, and the wildlife they support, are in danger of being lost.
What can I do?
Many farmers and landowners recognise the
importance traditional farming practices, such as grazing, play in
protecting habitats. Yet, in order to make the transition back to
older farming styles they need the support of the local community to
buy their produce and make their livestock economically viable.
Try and buy local produce whenever possible. Go to farmers markets and
find out about food in your area. In restaurants, ask if they use
local produce in their food.
So the ecological health of the
countryside, traditional farming and the lives of local people are all
closely linked?
Exactly. |
