Conservation Management: Biodiversity

Dear Reader

Conservation management is a key topic of interest for the farming community at the moment. But balancing the need for greater food production with protection of the environment is a juggling act. Organic and conservationist farming methods require significant physical and economical investment but there are huge benefits to be had particularly in the field of biodiversity.

This issue of Growing Skills will help explain the benefits and identify practical and cost efficient ways to promote increased biodiversity on our farmlands.

Best wishes

James

Practical Conservation Management

Biodiversity is of critical interest to farmers. They have a heavy duty of care to not only sustainably manage the environment but also deliver increased food production. Conventional farming practices such as the use of pesticides may reap reward in terms of crop yield but do they protect farmlands and livelihoods for the long term?

It is well documented that habitat loss is one of the main threats to biodiversity. Modern organic farming practices such as the removal of pesticides, increased use of manure and crop rotation provide the greatest chance for species such as birds, butterflies, soil microbes, beetles, earthworms, spiders and mammals to thrive. This increases biodiversity which in turn protects farming viability and sustainability for the long term. But these practices come at a price. They can be expensive to implement and labour intensive to maintain.

However, all is not lost! Sound resource management and the use of environmentally friendly practices will drive efficient farming techniques and generate long-term income protection by improving drought resistance and ensuring our natural resources are sustainable and able to cope with ever-increasing demand.

There are some easy and cost effective wins:

• Protect ponds, streams and ditches on your property. This will provide habitats for amphibians, otters, voles and invertebrates and a water supply for birds.
• Protect trees, particularly old ones. This will provide valuable habitats for insects, fungi, lichen, bats and birds as well a food source and shelter.
• Protect woodland habitats which provide shelter for stock, crop, game, mammals and birds. This too can provide a valuable income stream from sales of timber as well protecting plant and animal life.
• Retain and maintain farm building and farmyard environments. This will provide roosting and breeding grounds for bats, nesting sites for birds and habitats for moss and lichen.
• Improve grassland areas. By not ploughing, reseeding or fertilising grassy areas you will encourage the growth of wildflowers and rare plants as well as providing a vital habitat for insects, mammals and birds.

Upcoming Course Information

For information about forthcoming courses at the Rural Skills Centre, please check our website.