Threads of the Wild: Hedgerows and the Fabric of Nature

Farming and wildlife are deeply interconnected, often in subtle yet profound ways. While modern agricultural practices have focused on maximizing yields, these changes have often harmed wild plants and animals. Rare species have become rarer—or even extinct—and even once-common species have disappeared from vast areas of the UK. This loss doesn’t just impact nature; it ultimately threatens farming itself.

Without healthy ecosystems, the land’s productivity diminishes, and farming becomes less sustainable. Wild species, from pollinators to soil-dwelling organisms, play vital roles in maintaining a balanced and fertile landscape. Among the many opportunities to restore this balance, hedgerows stand out as a simple yet impactful starting point.

Hedgerows: A Bridge Between Farming and Nature

Hedgerows are much more than field boundaries. When allowed to grow bushy and overgrown, they create incredible habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife. Yet hedgerows have often been casualties of modern farming practices, including removal for larger fields or intensive cutting.

Restoring and managing hedgerows with wildlife in mind offers a practical way to make space for nature while supporting the farm itself. A thriving hedgerow not only provides shelter and food for species like yellowhammers, robins, and fieldfares but also supports pollinators, improves soil health, and offers natural pest control.

The Role of Native Species

Native plants are vital for creating hedgerows that truly benefit biodiversity. They provide food and shelter to the species that have evolved alongside them. Here are some key native plants and the wildlife they support:

• Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna): Produces berries (haws) that feed birds like blackbirds and redwings. Its dense branches also provide excellent nesting sites.

• Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa): Its early spring blossoms are crucial for pollinators, and its sloes feed birds like thrushes.

• Hazel (Corylus avellana): Supports a variety of insects, and its nuts are a key food source for mammals like dormice and birds like jays.

• Dog Rose (Rosa canina): Provides rose hips that are rich in nutrients for birds and mammals during winter.

Birds That Benefit from Hedgerows

Bushy, overgrown hedgerows create a haven for many bird species, including:

• Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella): These bright yellow birds nest at the base of hedgerows and feed on seeds and insects.

• Robin (Erithacus rubecula): A familiar sight, robins use hedgerows for nesting and foraging.

• Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula): Hedgerows provide the seeds and berries that bullfinches rely on.

• Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris) : In winter, these migratory birds feed on the berries of hawthorn and blackthorn.

• Whitethroat (Sylvia communis): This summer visitor thrives in the dense vegetation of unmanaged hedgerows.

Number of bird species and average number of pairs per 100m in different hedge types - Kenneth Mellanby: Farming and Wildlife (1974)

The Impact of Modern Farming Practices

As we consider how to manage hedgerows, it’s important to understand their role in the broader farming landscape.

• Hedgerow Removal: The removal of hedgerows to create larger fields has fragmented habitats and reduced biodiversity.

• Pesticides and Soil Health: Chemical use and changes in soil management have reduced populations of beneficial soil organisms—overlooked but vital forms of wildlife.

• Land Drainage: While beneficial for arable farming, drainage can harm wetlands, further depleting wildlife habitats.

• Grassland and Cropping Changes: Shifts in grassland and arable cropping practices have also reduced habitats for insects and ground-nesting birds.

Each of these changes highlights the delicate balance between farming and nature. Hedgerows, when managed thoughtfully, can act as a counterbalance, supporting wildlife even amid intensive farming systems.

Hedge Type Produced by Different Management - Kenneth Mellanby: Farming and Wildlife (1974)

How to Restore Hedgerows for Wildlife

1. Encourage Overgrowth: Let hedgerows grow bushy and dense, providing multiple layers of habitat for birds, insects, and mammals.

2. Reduce Cutting: Trim hedgerows on a rotational basis every two to three years, allowing plants to flower and fruit to support biodiversity.

3. Include Native Plants: Incorporate species like hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, and dog rose for their ecological benefits.

4. Protect During Nesting Season: Avoid trimming from March to August to safeguard nesting birds.

5. Integrate Hedgerow Planning: Systematic management of hedgerows ensures they remain both stockproof and ecologically valuable.

Wildlife Benefits Farmers Too

The presence of wildlife isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential. Birds, insects, and soil organisms help control pests, pollinate crops, and improve soil health. A well-managed hedgerow becomes a refuge for these species, contributing to the farm’s overall productivity and resilience.

A New Perspective on Farming and Nature

Making space for nature on a farm starts with small, thoughtful changes. Hedgerows, which bridge the gap between farmland and wild spaces, are a perfect first step. By managing hedgerows with biodiversity in mind, farmers can create habitats that benefit both wildlife and agriculture.

In the end, a farm that welcomes nature becomes more than just a space of production—it transforms into a thriving, balanced ecosystem that benefits wildlife, the environment, and the farmer alike.

Lannock Farm: Rooted in Sustainability, Growing with Innovation

Lannock Farm courtyard in progress, November 2024

Situated in the village of Weston, North Hertfordshire, Lannock Farm is a place where people can connect with nature, driven by a strong commitment to sustainability and fostering a thriving environment. Nestled amidst the serene rural landscape of Hertfordshire, the farm is surrounded by expansive arable fields and scattered pockets of pasture.

With five generations of family care, the farm has developed a deep-rooted connection to the land and the local Weston parish. This bond is complemented by an innovative and forward-looking approach to farming that emphasizes regenerative practices. These practices aim to improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, maintain water quality, and provide opportunities for people to flourish in a countryside setting.

Lannock Farm also offers a distinctive workspace tailored for businesses in the food and beverage, farming, and creative industries. These spaces are ideal for enterprises seeking to innovate, collaborate, and drive positive change within their fields. By being part of this supportive and progressive community, businesses can thrive while contributing to a sustainable future in the heart of the countryside.

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Lannock Farm : In The Words Of Alex Cherry

Digg&Co has been working with us on the Grainworks project at Lannock Farm for over five years, and their contribution has been integral to bringing our vision to life. From the very start, their early conceptual ideas were not only imaginative but also deeply attuned to the specific character of the site. They helped us understand the profound connection between the land itself and the surrounding farmland, which was crucial to the overall design process.

The design team took the time to listen to our ambitions, as well as our concerns, and managed to translate these into a design that was both functional and inspiring. Their ability to take abstract ideas and turn them into something tangible was remarkable. What stood out, in particular, was Toby’s skillful use of pencil on stencil paper. His delicate yet precise drawings were a reflection of his vast knowledge and experience in landscape design, enabling us to visualize the project more clearly and discuss it in a way that felt natural and collaborative.

As we move from plans to action — laying paving slabs and seeing the first hints of the design take shape — the joy of the project becomes more apparent every day. The people who live and work on the site are starting to see the tangible benefits of all the hard work, and the space is beginning to come alive in a way that’s truly rewarding.

Landscaping is often the aspect of a project that gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list, particularly on a project like this. However, at Lannock Farm, we’ve come to realize just how vital the outdoor spaces are in making the site truly unique. The landscaping not only enhances the aesthetic value of the place but also plays a significant role in fostering a sense of community. A well-designed outdoor environment can make a huge difference in creating a happy and thriving space where people can work, collaborate, and feel inspired.

Throughout the entire journey, Digg&Co. has been there for us, offering invaluable guidance and support. They are currently assisting us with a planting plan that will further bring the space to life and create a vibrant, sustainable environment for years to come. We’re excited to see the outcome and couldn’t be more pleased with the collaboration so far.

Harold’s Park (Nattergal)

Harold’s Park Wildland Masterplan and Illustration by Quentin Martin (2024)

Harold's Park Wildland, located in the Epping Forest District, serves as a key environmental project aimed at reconnecting millions of city dwellers with nature. The project, led by Nattergal, seeks to enhance biodiversity and encourage people to engage with the natural environment in their urban surroundings.

Nattergal's role as custodian offers a unique opportunity to foster environmental improvements such as water purification, habitat restoration, better soil health, and flood risk reduction. In addition to these ecological benefits, the project aims to create local employment opportunities and provide educational experiences for children in both London and Essex, allowing them to explore and immerse themselves in nature.

Although Harold's Park might initially appear lacking in biodiversity, Nattergal have uncovered valuable habitats, including ancient woodlands, veteran oaks, species-rich grasslands, ponds, scrubland and scrapes. These untamed treasures provide Nattergal with the perfect foundation to begin nature’s healing process, sparking a transformation that promises to bring both wildlife and people together in harmony.

One of the most exciting prospects for Harold’s Park is the restoration of its waterways, which could play a pivotal role in reviving rare species lost to decades of intensive farming. These rejuvenated streams and ponds will become lifelines for wildlife, creating rich habitats that beckon back creatures long absent from the land.

Harold’s Park is steeped in history, its roots stretching back to the days when it served as a deer hunting ground for King Harold II. Over the centuries, the land transformed, becoming an agricultural hub before evolving into the dynamic landscape it is today. In the 1950s, Scottish farmer John Mackie acquired the farm with a vision that went beyond traditional food production. He saw Harold’s Park as a place where farming could coexist with nature, planting trees and inviting the public to experience the countryside's beauty.

In the 1970s, Mackie’s son George took over the farm's tenancy and expanded its horizons. Under his stewardship, the farm diversified beyond its arable roots. George established an equestrian business, added the charm of Christmas tree farming, and opened the park’s ponds, enriching the landscape with both leisure and purpose.

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In 2024, Nattergal stepped in with a bold vision, purchasing the site to rewild and restore its natural beauty. Now, under Nattergal’s custodianship, Harold’s Park embarks on an exciting new chapter. The land will be nurtured back to its wild roots, allowing wildlife to return.

Harold’s Park lies just a stone’s throw from London, offering a unique opportunity for city dwellers to escape into the wild without having to travel far. Its proximity to the capital makes it a convenient destination for millions, providing an accessible gateway to the wonders of the natural world.

For those living in London and Essex, the rewilding of Harold’s Park opens up a chance to reconnect with nature in a way that few urban cities can offer. Within an easy reach of the city, families, schools, and individuals can explore landscapes teeming with wildlife.

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The restored wetlands will attract cranes—majestic birds that had vanished from the region. The Brown Hairstreak Butterfly will also play a crucial role in the rewilding of Harold’s Park, symbolising both the fragility and resilience of the ecosystem. This rare and beautiful butterfly, once widespread, has suffered due to habitat loss, particularly the destruction of hedgerows and woodland edges. As the butterfly flutters through the restored meadows and woodland edges, it will help pollinate wildflowers, contributing to the regeneration of native plant species, including Yellow Flag Iris and white waterlilies near the park’s wetlands. Its delicate wings will be a sign that Harold’s Park is once again becoming a thriving, interconnected ecosystem—a place where even the smallest species play a vital role in maintaining the balance of nature. Among the butterflies, the restoration will also see the return of the striking Marbled White Butterfly, which will flutter through the park’s sunlit meadows, contributing to the pollination of species like Broad-leaved Helleborine, an elegant orchid that will once again grace Harold’s Park.

A few examples of the species that will inhabit Harold’s Park Wildland

Beyond the water’s edge, the woodlands will become a refuge for red kites, which will soar above the ancient forest. Long-eared owls will make their home in the restored hornbeam coppice and veteran oaks, their timeless canopies providing shelter and sustenance for a rich variety of birdlife and mammals. The return of the Red-backed Shrike and Goshawk will bring back the thrill of natural predation. Known for its sharp hunting skills, the Red-backed Shrike (often referred to as the "butcher bird" for its habit of impaling prey on thorns) will make its home in the park’s hedgerows and scrubland, where it can hunt insects, small mammals, and birds.

On the ground, Nattergal plans to bring back New Forest ponies and White Park cattle, large herbivores that will naturally manage the landscape through grazing, helping to maintain a balanced ecosystem. These animals will encourage the growth of wildflowers and support the return of pollinators like bees. As the park’s meadows and hedgerows come alive, they’ll also support smaller species such as grass snakes and Harvest mice. Hornbeam coppice and majestic veteran oaks will continue to stand tall, becoming the backbone of Harold’s Park’s restored natural beauty and providing shelter to the Goshawk and Lesser-spotted woodpecker.

This rewilding project will not only restore the wildlife that once graced Harold’s Park but will also offer a sanctuary for people, giving them a space to reconnect with the land and witness the rebirth of a vital ecosystem—one where New Forest ponies, red kites, cranes, and even the delicate Brown Hairstreak Butterfly can coexist in perfect harmony.

A Guardian article on Harold’s Park Wildland written by Patrick Barkham (2024)

Creating and Maintaining Scrapes for Waders - Harry and Toby Go Digging

Harry, Bella and Toby recently began managing a silage pasture on the edge of a well-established, marsh-fritillary rich tussocky culm grassland, but the fields were anything but easy to work with. The land is constantly wet, owing to its flat topography and clayey subsoil. Water holds on this land naturally, and it was clear that rather than continuing with regular silage cropping, it would be much easier to shift gears and embrace our natural farming methods.

The goal was simple: let the land flourish naturally, with a little bit of initial mechanical intervention, and in doing so, encourage biodiversity, improve water retention, and protect the carbon rich soil.

One piece of this new direction was the creation of scrapes—shallow depressions designed to hold water. These scrapes would serve multiple purposes: providing natural watering points for grazing cattle, helping restore the land to a more species-rich grassland and attracting a variety of wildlife, particularly wading birds and insects. The hope was to welcome back species like snipe, woodcock, golden plover, and, in time, lapwings and curlews.

The first step was to assess the land. The existing rye-dominant grass sward was cut back, yielding a strong crop of hay. This allowed them to get a clearer picture of the land's natural contours. Though the fields seemed flat at first glance, subtle dips and ridges soon became apparent—ideal spots to create pockets of standing water. With a five-ton digger (Toby) and a six-ton dumper (Harry) on hand, they set to work. There was no pre-determined plan, just an open-minded approach of digging and shaping the land as it suggested. The process was relaxed but purposeful, with lots of back-and-forth discussion about the depths, curves, and edges of each scrape.

In just two days, the first phase was complete. The scrapes, with their varying depths and gradients, provided a range of wetland habitats that would attract different species. Six months later, the results were already visible. The site is becoming a haven for wildlife: snipe had appeared, and red deer had started to frequent the area. Dragonflies, swallows, and house martins were also drawn to the new water features, and the site was alive with the sounds of meadow pipits and woodcock. The wet areas around the scrapes had begun to expand, and the vegetation was slowly filling in. As the years go on, they expect the species count to continue growing.

The success of this project shows how simple conservation measures—like creating ponds and scrapes—can have an immediate, transformative effect on the environment. The transition from a silage field to a wet culm grassland has brought about a noticeable increase in ecological activity, and the results have been incredibly rewarding. The takeaway? Sometimes, the best way to make a real difference is to get out there, grab a digger, and start creating scrapes. The land knows what it needs, and with a little help, it can quickly start to thrive.

Haymasters 2024 - While the sun shines

On the weekend of the 13th-14th of July we all came together at Mill Barton for a delightful haymaking event that celebrated the timeless tradition of harvesting hay. Haymasters was a vibrant mix of hard work, camaraderie, and fun, bringing together people of all ages to participate in this essential agricultural practice. Here's a recap of the memorable weekend filled with sunshine, laughter, and plenty of hay.

The first task was cutting the grass, for which scythes were provided. Under our experts' guidance, everyone got to try their hand at swinging the scythe, an art that requires both strength and finesse. It was a sight to behold – rows of enthusiastic participants, scythes in hand, cutting the tall grasses under the clear blue sky. There's a certain rhythm to the process – cutting the grass, spreading it out to dry, and turning it to ensure even drying. It's labor-intensive, but there's something incredibly satisfying about seeing the progress we've made by the end of the day.

Rob Wyld in the wild surveying the hay

As the evening approached, we left the hay to dry and gathered around the firepit. After a day of hard work, there's nothing quite like sitting around a fire with friends, plenty of cider, and a grill loaded with burgers. The conversations flowed as freely as the cider, and the burgers were grilled to perfection.

A beautiful summers evening barbecue

Sunday was dedicated to rickmaking. The hay had dried sufficiently by now, and it was time to build the ricks. This task requires teamwork and precision. We worked together, stacking the hay neatly and securely.

Process of rick-making

In the afternoon, there were demonstrations of various traditional haymaking techniques, including the art of haystacks. We also learned about the importance of timing in haymaking – cutting the grass at the right stage of growth and ensuring it dries properly to retain its nutritional value.

The triumphant feeling of creating a perfect rick

As the sun began to set, we gathered for a feast. The centrepiece was a delicious brisket made from Mill Barton beef. Slow-cooked to perfection, it was tender and flavorful, a true testament to the quality of our meat. Sharing this meal was a fitting end to a weekend of hard work and celebration.

Sophie observing the rick-making

Haymasters was a resounding success, thanks to the enthusiasm and participation of everyone involved. It was more than just an agricultural activity; it was a celebration of our heritage and community. As we head into the rest of the summer, the memories of this weekend will linger, reminding us of the joys of working together and the importance of preserving our traditions.

We look forward to next year's Haymasters and hope to see even more members of our community join in the fun. Until then, happy haymaking!

Introducing Haymasters

Haymasters poster for 2024 designed by Saltwood Studio.

Get ready for the exciting Haymasters 2024, a traditional haymaking competition that will take place in Mid-Devon over the weekend of the 13th of July. This year, the competition will be held at Mill Barton. Teams of three or four members, led by one captain each, will compete in a test of skill and teamwork. The competition is open to amateurs only, and no professionals are allowed.

Participants will be assigned specific times for hay management, with the final scheduled for 2 pm on Sunday. As part of the event, participants and visitors will have the opportunity to take guided tours of the beautiful meadows and farm. Additionally, experienced scythers will provide valuable tutorials.

The judges for the competition are Dan Gibson and Caroline Lowes.

Get ready for a weekend filled with fun, friendly competition, camping and appreciation for the art of traditional haymaking!

A short history of haymaking

Since the ancient Neolithic era, spanning roughly 8,000 to 6,000 years ago, people have been selectively clearing trees from age-old forests. These once densely wooded areas were gently grazed by domesticated animals, allowing a variety of plants to thrive, some of which are still found in the lush hay meadows of today.

By the time of the Norman conquest in 1066, hay meadows had become a common sight, with the Domesday Book documenting their presence in eight out of every ten settlements. In medieval times, livestock would be led 'up the hill' during the summer to graze upon communal 'shieling grounds', while in the winter, they would be nourished with hay harvested during the summer from communal meadows encircling the village.

Haymaking, Lambrook Street, Glastonbury, c.1914.

The 1950s saw a significant shift in farming practices, resulting in a marked decline in the prevalence of hay meadows and the delicate ecological balance they sustain. The quest to increase agricultural productivity led to the introduction of chemical fertilisers and robust ryegrasses, which outcompeted native grasses and wildflowers, causing a further decline in biodiversity.

Haymaking by George Stubbs, c.1785.

Species-rich hay meadows

The traditional hay meadows of the UK are invaluable treasures that are regrettably disappearing from the landscape. Bursting with a diverse array of plant species including the vibrant yellow rattle, colorful knapweed, and fragrant sweet vernal grass, these meadows are crucial habitats for a wide variety of wildlife, from buzzing insects to melodious birds. Additionally, they serve as an essential winter feed source for sheep and cattle.

However, these meadows are not untouched by human hands. They thrive on relatively nutrient-poor land that has avoided intensive management such as ploughing, re-seeding, and chemical fertilisation. Restoring land to a species-rich meadow is a lengthy process. Due to this natural ecosystem, traditional species-rich hay meadows generally yield less hay compared to intensively managed fields.

Species-rich wildflower meadow, Dartmoor, c.2024.

In the past, the art of haymaking was a communal undertaking, with farms bustling with staff during the farming year. However, with many farms being operated by a single farmer and their family, often alongside other jobs, committing to haymaking has become quite a challenge, especially considering the unpredictable British summers.

To produce high-quality hay, a period of favourable weather is essential as it allows the ground to dry out and become capable of supporting the heavy machinery required for the process. The intricate process begins with the mowing of the grass, followed by turning it over multiple times to facilitate thorough drying. This turning action also serves to enable the flower seeds to disperse and encourages the growth of the grass species for the following year.

Next, the grass is rowed up into lines for baling. Hay can be made into traditional small bales or large ones. After baling, the hay must be left outside to cool down to avoid the risk of it catching fire. It is then stored indoors until it is needed in the winter months, hence the need for a good run of weather.

Our weather is usually unpredictable, and we often don't get good enough weather to make hay. In such cases, silage is made instead, as it requires less drying time and can be wrapped up to preserve the grass.

Once the bales are collected, livestock are allowed into the fields to graze on the unmown areas. The livestock also helps to spread the wildflower seeds from the hay crop by treading on the fields, leading to germination in the following years, which maintains the "richness" of the meadow.

No Fence Collars

Toby and Bella’s herd, May 2024

Nofence is one of the world’s first virtual fencing systems for grazing animals such as sheep, cattle, and goats. Created by Norwegian founder Oscar Hovde Berntsen, Nofence is powered by a solar-powered GPS collar that navigates around a virtual boundary, which can be managed through the Nofence app. The fencing feature just uses GPS, however, it is advised to pair it with cellular service so that you can monitor and manage the fence from the app in most areas of the pasture. Nofence has created an audio system that uses a scale to send out alerts to the animal when crossing the boundary. The audio starts at a low pitch and rises gradually; if the whole scale has been played, a mild but effective electrical pulse will be given. The animal will then recognise the audio scale as a warning and turn around to avoid the electrical pulse.

Farmers won't have to waste time looking for their animals when they stray over fence, making virtual fencing potentially the best option. By keeping the animal away from predators like wolves, bears, lynxes, and other animals, the collar increases the animal's protection. Oscar, the founder, makes sure it is highly improbable that the animals will try to break free because they quickly recognise the boundaries and steer clear of the electrical pulse.

Nofence collars can also be utilised to regenerate land. Although Nofence is working on a product specifically used for conservation, some of their clients currently utilise their products for managed grazing.

Toby & Bella’s herd wearing their Nofence collars, May 2024

Violet showing off her Nofence collar, May 2024

Working with The Northern Devon Natural Solutions Team at The Devon Wildlife Trust, Toby and Bella started their journey with Nofence collars at the end of 2023. Although the majority of the herd is housed during the wettest months of the year, a few cows (usually with calves at foot) are chosen to outwinter. These five cows were collared and trained in early December 2023. Every two to three days, the cows were relocated to new areas. These larger paddock winter systems include lots of exclusion zones—such as wet regions, recently planted trees, gateways (and other heavily used areas), and old hedgerows. The virtual boundaries worked effectively to preserve these areas and by May, everything is growing well.

It isn’t just the cows that need to learn the Nofence system. They have also succumbed to a few issues some of which are beyond our control (like poor signal). However, they have learned to be patient while waiting for the collars and the app to sync and as a result, not rush the cows to new areas as they would do if using fencing. There have been some trust issues too; occasionally the cows have been unsure to cross a previous virtual boundary if they have been shocked in that area, and although they usually would come to a call (especially in winter when they’re hungry!) they have had to ask the dog to fetch them instead.

The rest of the herd have recently had their collars fitted. After a couple of days, the cows are happy and comfortable and so the virtual training has begun again.

Once they are confident that the whole herd has learned how to respond appropriately to the aural trigger, they will be transported to a new area of land to begin a long-term process of restorative grazing. The collars will allow Toby and Bella to be extremely proactive when responding to the affect of conservation grazing on land previously under intensive management. As species begin to appear, they can either exclude the cattle from areas of interest (this may include groundnesting birds or butterfly webs) or create a boundary which encourages much tighter grazing. They will also be able to give access to natural water sources at the same time as preventing general erosion or pollution in other water courses.

Mill Barton (species-rich grassland in Hake Bottom), May 2024

Water Avens in a Hake Bottom watercourse, May 2024

Cheddar Gorge Bat Caves with Louis Pearson

Greater horseshoe bat

Louis Pearson, Principal Ecologist at Digg & Co., has been deeply involved in the ecological management and conservation efforts at Cheddar Gorge for the past three years.

Situated within the breathtaking landscapes of the Mendip Hills (see below) and under the careful stewardship of the Longleat Estate, Cheddar Gorge stands as a sanctuary for a rich and diverse array of wildlife. Among its inhabitants are dormice populations to species-rich calcareous grasslands with rare endemic species like the white beam shrub (Sorbos cheddarensis) and a substantial population of greater horseshoe bats (see above), adding to the area's ecological significance.

Old Gough’s Cave, Cheddar Gorge

Louis' work has been dedicated to closely monitoring the behaviour and population dynamics of the greater horseshoe bats, with a specific focus on the crucial maternity season and breeding activities. Of particular interest is Old Gough's Cave (see above), a key roosting site that serves as a refuge for approximately 800 bats throughout the year. Through meticulous observations and data collection, Louis aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the bat population trends and behaviours over time.

Cheddar Gorge's ecological importance is further emphasised by its inclusion in the North Somerset and Mendip Special Area of Conservation (Special Area of Conservation-SAC). This designation not only highlights the area's ecological significance but also ensures that the bat populations are protected by robust legislation, making any form of disturbance or harm illegal. Moreover, the area's planning policies meticulously consider the potential impact on the bat population for any proposed developments, underlining the commitment to preserving the ecological balance of the region.

Mendip Hills, Somerset

Longleat are due to renew their stewardship agreement with Natural England for the Cheddar Complex (SSSI) within the Gorge and are preparing an application for a Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship agreement. Digg and Co. hope to be the lead consultancy responsible for delivering a comprehensive management plan which will aim to conserve and enhance the rare habitats and wildlife within the gorge, with a specific emphasis on optimizing the conditions for the Greater Horseshoe bat populations. Through his detailed and dedicated approach, Louis is playing a pivotal role in maintaining ecological harmony and safeguarding the diverse wildlife within Cheddar Gorge.

Hopes of Spring

Spring is finally here on the farm, bringing hope and efflorescence. We’ve had record high rainfall this winter so the spring sunshine is greatly received. Life is starting to bloom again. The skylark heralds in spring with its melodic trill, welcoming the cows out of the shed and into the field.

We’ve been busy here in the veg patch, Quentin has been planting seedlings and we’ve recently planted a few seed potatoes to be enjoyed in late August/September. Wildflowers are blooming, including Lesser Celandine and Lady’s Smock. Daffodils have painted the fields yellow and the whiff of wild garlic lingers in the air.

Trilling skylark, April 2024

“Come with rain, O loud Southwester!

Bring the singer, bring the nester;

Give the buried flower a dream;

Make the settled snowbank steam.”

- Robert Frost

Lesser Celandine, April 2024

Biodiversity Net Gain with Louis Pearson

Wendling Beck Environment Project

Louis Pearson talks through Digg & Co.’s involvement with Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), past present and future.

BNG is a new and developing off-setting market, which has arisen as a result of the Environment Act in 2021. All developments seeking planning permission have to deliver a 10% biodiversity net gain. To deliver that uplift, we have to find a way of measuring biodiversity. Nature isn’t easily quantified objectively. So the most effective way to measure is metrically, by habitat type, habitat distinctiveness and habitat condition. If the habitats are of a certain value then we can assume that the associated faunal and fungal groups are of equivalent value.

The opportunity for land owners to benefit is from both income diversification and landscape resilience. BNG payments will provide an alternative finance stream to their businesses, whilst also providing good land stewardship by enhancing or creating semi-natural habitats: There are great benefits for bringing nature and wildlife into a farming system, increasing productivity and resilience. After all, a nature-rich landscape can be enchanting, exciting and stimulating.

Digg & Co. are working on several projects which include BNG as a funding stream. These range from small land holdings of 20-40 hectares (ha), to larger government schemes, such as Landscape Recovery run by DEFRA, with projects ranging from 500 to 12,000 ha.

Wendling Beck hedgerow

The Wendling Beck Environment Project (WBEP) is one of the most advanced BNG-inspired schemes in the country. WBEP (see photo above and below) is a 2,000-acre nature recovery project in Norfolk, creating habitats and supporting nature-driven processes on a large scale. Just three years in, it’s beginning to sell units, bringing in income to enable further project implementation. Digg & Co are closely involved as ecological advisers working alongside the project team on the ground.

Wendling Beck heathland

A Digg & Co. masterplan for a small-scale housing development in Suffolk uses BNG as a financing option. Made up of eight dwellings and a nature reserve over a two ha site, the design includes a restored orchard, wildflower meadows, ponds, wetland systems and permeable hard-landscaping. Each plot has a nature-friendly garden design that blends into the nature reserve.

Puddington Moor sketch (see below)

Puddington Moor (10 ha) was purchased by Toby and Bella three years ago. This has been financed and managed through a BNG agreement with The Environment Bank, one of the first made by the company. Digg & Co.’s masterplan of the site includes species-rich grassland, diverse scrublands adjacent to existing woodland and billowing hedgerows. Previously managed as an arable swede field, a bespoke habitat management agreement (HMA) allows the implementation of the masterplan. The objective is to restore the priority habitat of Culm grassland across the plot of land financed through BNG.

Puddington Moor wildflowers

BNG incentivises strong relationships between land owners, managers and consultants. Our ability to understand farming and forestry systems and the challenges, constraints and opportunities on farms allows us to advise and work with landowners to bring biodiversity into their landscapes in a way that supports their desired land use, whether that’s livestock farming or rewilding land and turning it back to nature. Throughout these projects the agreements are a minimum of 30 years, so we can build long-term relationships with landowners to help them transition their land into a sustainable future, creating biodiverse, beautiful and resilient landscapes. The long-term goal for Digg & Co. is to ensure that work undertaken to increase biodiversity is long-lasting and of maximum ongoing benefit: From baselining current habitats to creating a coherent and ecologically resilient landscape masterplan, all the way through to producing management plans to deliver these habitat enhancements and managing them in perpetuity for nature.

Restoring Species-Rich Grasslands - An Interview with Toby Diggens

In this series, Toby talks us through the history and origins of the grasslands of Britain to reaping all the magnificent benefits of your own grasslands.

Enjoy!

Part 1.

Part 2.

Part 3.

Part 4.

Part 5.

Why we milk our own cow - An Interview with Bella Lowes

Red Devons were known previously for being a dual-purpose breed however with the way that farming has gone there is no longer a need to produce both. It has become more about producing a big yield of either meat or milk. If people specifically wanted to raise cattle for milk then they’d typically choose a dairy cow such as a Jersey or Guernsey.

When one of our heifers- Izzy had a calf who died last September she could’ve dried up on her own, however there is a degree of discomfort from having a full udder and being her first calf ultimately we wanted her to be able to breed again without any stress or mental strain potentially causing problems in the future. There is also a huge benefit from the hormone Oxytocin being produced during lactation, this can help with so many aspects such as social interaction with other cows, herd relationships, anti-anxiety hormones, happiness and comfort. For all of those reasons we thought we’d at least give it a go so that we could breed from her again and knowing that the milk produced would be out of this world, and sure enough it was.

We’d milked before out of necessity when a cow has had mastitis or if we’d needed to stomach tube a sick or slow calf. However both scenarios were never in a productive or routine way, more in the here and now. This meant that the concept of milking wasn’t completely foreign. You’ll know pretty quickly when you’re doing it wrong, you’ll either get no milk or a kick in the head.

Izzy made it clear quite quickly that she appreciated us milking her and she soon adopted Bella as her calf, she would even groom her whilst also keeping the other cows away. This was due to all the maternal hormones being produced when the nursing began. As time went on Bella noticed Izzy becoming less protective and maternal, the same as she would with a real calf, the natural process of motherhood. However, she still appreciates being milked, she’d walk over to Bella and stand next to her, ready to offer what she had.

Milk is one of the most hydrating liquids you can consume, due to so little waste being produced. The cow is producing milk to grow a calf, hence why it has so many incredible nutrients in it. Red Devons are known for having a lot of fat in their milk which if you’re drinking it raw, unpasteurised, non-homogenised it is very beneficial to you and your digestive system. There’s also lots of friendly bacteria in there, helping your gut microbiome and auto-immune system. Bella had chronic eczema before drinking Izzy’s milk, it has since cleared up a lot and is now manageable. Bella believes drinking raw milk could cure a myriad of physical problems, it’s so nutritionally-dense.

A modern traditional dairy cow is bred for predominantly yield, and generally doesn’t raise it’s own calf and so the goodness of the milk is decreased. When you take away the calf or nursing of the cow, then quite a few of the nutritional benefits will be missing. Some would argue that you’d get better milk from a beef cow rather than the dairy cow, the beef cow usually has a calf to raise meaning nutritious milk will be produced.

Bella has described the process of milking Izzy as going beyond her expectations, the emotional bond she has formed with her and trusting between each other is so powerful. She now has a whole new appreciation for Izzy and her liquid gold. She explains becoming so aware of all of Izzy’s physical movements when under the bucket, her physical and mental health became so apparent to Bella she could read her like a book. She knew when Izzy had mastitis without checking her teats, she knew when Izzy was going to shift her weight through micro-movements and muscle memory so she wouldn’t ever tip the bucket. Izzy was not that tame before being milked. She now trusts most humans around her and accepts them. She keeps Bella present and grateful on a daily basis. In exchange Izzy is also feeling grateful for being milked as much as possible. A very powerful bond between human and heifer.

A Brief History of Red Devons

Red Devon Heifers, circa 1812

Mill Barton, the home of Digg & Co is also home to a herd of Red Devons who are a crucial part of the habitat restoration on the farm. We can now milk one of our cows, produce high-quality meat and keep a very happy herd. Devons are docile and have a calm temperament. They’re comfortable around other people and animals, they do not get aggravated easily or stressed, they’re hardy and can adapt to extreme temperatures.

Valued for their high quality beef and rich milk, known for being the quickest and most active oxen in the British Isles, it’s no wonder the Red Devon has been a national favourite for centuries. Supposedly bought over by the Phoenicians who came to the West Country for tin in the Bronze Age, moving swiftly over to Ireland and Wales from Cornwall by settlers. Research suggests that the only domestic cattle before the Anglo Saxon invasion were the Longifrons, a race of cattle introduced in the Neolithic Age, evidence also suggests the Red Devons are descendants of the Longifrons, going back thousands of years. The cattle travelled all over Britain before being transported over to New England, US with some even ending up down in Florida. Many Devons that were first transported over to the US were used to haul materials up and down the Oregon Trail.

Due to their versatility and dual-purpose throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the breed were valued as the ‘Plough-Ox’, known for their swiftness in harness and speeds of up to 6mph, being unrivalled by others.

Francis Quartly, Cow Cherry 66 and calf, circa 1790

The Devon became very fashionable in the eighteen century, popular amongst progressive and gentrified farms in Britain. The famous herd at the time was that of the Quartly family of the Great Champson farm at Molland nestled below the southern slopes of Exmoor, this would’ve been a wild and rough place to raise a herd of cattle only proving the ability for the Red Devons to withstand tough climates. The herd was established in 1776 by James Quartly, the family having farmed there for over 100 years. On his death in 1793, James Quartly handed over the lease and herd to his son Francis (see above). In 1794, James and his brother started the systematic improvement to the breed, both known for being good stockmen and judges of animals. During the Napoleonic Wars, Civil Wars at the start of the 1800’s, many of the best animals (including Red Devons) were sold for beef to feed the hungry armies, resulting in lack of stock. Francis Quartly recognised the problem and starting buying in some of these animals, outbidding the butchers, and as one noted Devon breeder remarked- taking trump in every hand and retaining them for breeding. Many Quartly females were therefore bought in, however Quartly exclusively used his own bulls in the herd.

Devon Cow by A. Stevens circa 1819

Red Devons eventually became a breed of jet-setters with the breed being exported out to upwards of 30 countries around the world such as South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, Cuba, USA, Zimbabwe and predominantly Brazil. This was due to a huge rise in demand for high-quality beef worldwide. This eventually gave them a broad genetic diversity and a range of maturity patterns that enable them to perform in a wide variety of economic and environmental patterns. Demand from Australia continued for most of the half of the twentieth century, the USA was also popular patron of the Red Devons until the end of the 1970s. After artificial insemination started to be exported in the 1960s and the risk of moving live animals across international boundaries became prevalent, there was less need to export the breed across continents. In the 1980s the Red Devons were decided to be mixed with the French breed Salers who are also a docile and placid breed. This decision was made after population of the breed nearly crashed, there was also a consumer demand for leaner meat. By mixing the two breeds this eventually helped to ease market demands.

Thomas Coke of Holkham, Norfolk and a prize ox of the type exported to the USA in the early nineteenth century.

From yoke to the butchers slab it’s no wonder the Red Devons became such a prized beast over the centuries. With a rich, diverse history and many air miles they have expanded across continents, enriching the land and economy around them.

Raising and Selling Beef on the farm

After only a few days of starting here at Digg & Co, I’ve been given the opportunity to help Toby & Bella with the sales of their freshly-cut beef, raised and sold here on the farm.

Currently a herd of 25-30, known for their easy temperament and high-quality meat, they definitely fit into the common characteristics of the infamous Ruby Reds. Toby & Bella encourage an ‘Open-Gate’ policy here on the farm providing opportunity to see the time and care that’s put into the herds wellbeing. When I asked Bella what her favourite part of raising their herd was she answered with the simple fact that it keeps them present on a daily basis. Being present is something I believe we all need to harness more of particularly in the climate and world we live in today. Animals and nature have so much to offer when it comes to being in the moment and understanding that there’s a lot we can’t control even with the technology and power we have at our fingertips, most of the time nature has her own plans so we must sit back, take note and work with what we have, accompanied by a positive and sustainable attitude.

Below is an idea of what we sell in our delicious beef boxes (£15.00 per Kilo).

• Individual cuts - Skirt steak, Fillet steak, Rump Steak, Braising cuts, Silverside, Topside, Sirloin, Roasting Joints, Shin and Mince.

• We’re also offering Marrow Bones in kilo packs.

All boxes and cuts are available to pick up from the farm.

To enquire about a Beef Box, please click on the button below to fill out a form or contact Bella directly at ashbarndevon@gmail.com

Enquire about a Beef Box

Beef Box Form

New arrivals

As the last of the summer swallows leave Mill Barton Farm for their long journey south, new life has arrived on the farm in the form of beautiful calves. Bella and Toby’s days are filled with early starts and late evenings, checking on the herd. Old matriarchs and young heifers alike are eagerly watched for signs of who will give birth.

Then suddenly, within a hour or so, there is a young calf, standing there in the field on its own four legs. With each passing hour it grows stronger, nourished by its mother, who herself is nourished by the rich and diverse grassland underfoot. It is heartwarming to see this herd of cattle of all different ages welcome their new members. It is not just calves that grow stronger, but the herd as a whole.

This year, one of the cows unfortunately lost her calf, born backwards, it sadly passed. However, from this bitter situation, a sweet outcome has arisen. The milk that usually strengthen the calves now strengthens the community that has grown here, around the farm. These wonderful creatures are not just strengthening themselves, but also our community here in Mid-Devon.

This is the ever present ebb and flow of life on a farm, constant growth and decay that comes with the passing seasons. We look forward to watching these calves grow in the coming years.

Sophie at Digg and Co. - A year in the field.

I am delighted to be part of the Digg & Co team working on ecologically designed projects. Having joined one year ago as a landscape architecture student, I thought I’d share some of my favourite experiences.

Working part time at Digg & Co during my masters gave me a rich understanding of my dissertation subject on the landscape architect’s role in regenerative agriculture. This was due to the atypical days on the farm and in the studio and speaking with the wider multidisciplinary community of people visiting and supporting the projects. The self-employed aspect meant there was a lot of flexibility if the dissertation writing was flowing more or if the studio project work increased.

Each day we all make sure to take a break from the desk to see what new growth is happening outside, to explore the different habitats on the farm and to discover new routes across the fields. It is definitely a highlight when Louis comes to the farm as this is the best way to learn about all the interactions species have with each other and their environment. We believe there are no better design inspirations for the projects we are working on than from the real-life examples outside, and of course there is also cow spotting…

Toby and Bella helped me to move very comfortably from city life to rural life by providing accommodation as and when needed so that the transition to this new lifestyle happened smoothly. The day-to-day environment is inclusive to all and there are endless opportunities to soak in new understandings of regenerative farming and holistic principles through conversations around the kitchen table, through access of the large library of wildlife resources and through the on-the-ground experiences on the farm (or even from the new studio roof!).

Enjoyable Digg & Co moments include passing by stretching dogs, chasing puppies who are chasing Bella and Toby and cooking the incredible beef from the farm whilst camping on the farm.

One day we made made over 100 litres of apple juice whilst another evening we all went to the local restaurant for a 6 course beef tasting night. Toby and Bella jumped between the dinner tables explaining how the beef had come from their farm and the evening became a celebration of the work the cows are doing in restoring the land. With cows, comes great plant diversity and more opportunities to see beautiful flowers on the farm.

My intention whilst writing my dissertation was to show that Landscape Architects have a key role to play by better orientating horticulture practices and farming methods and contributing towards improved ecological design. I’ve learnt at Digg&Co that Landscape Architects do not simply have the skills to improve the landscapes that link humanity to nature, they also have a moral duty to enhance a far closer connection to the core ecological principles of ecosystem theory. This year I have realised that policy standards need increasing so as to cut back on globally damaging practices. I now am very grateful to be a part of a team achieving this through holistically designed projects leading by example.

P.S. I now work as a landscape architect for Digg & Co., where the journey continues. :)

Devon's First Habitat Bank - Puddington Moor

Since the new year we have been working with the Environment Bank to create the first strategic habitat bank in Devon. An restoration offset to land currently being destroyed by building houses.

In 2020 we purchased Puddington Moor, a 25 acre field at the top of a highly polluted catchment. A field so battered by the growing of intensive swedes that even 2 years later there is still bare soil, which is so compacted it burns off in only 4-5 days of sunny weather.

However, the power of natural restoration is strong and slowly but surely the land, with plenty of help from us, has begun to respond. This autumn we spread 30 round bales of species rich hay from a friend called Luke Hext, who has the most amazing culm meadows. Grassland full of Sneezewort, Devils Bit Scabious, Southern Marsh Orchid, whose seed is in the green hay, is now all over Puddington, waiting for the perfect moment this winter to germinate and begin restoring the soil.

Here is a video that we shot with the Environment Bank highlighting the work to do, the work we’ve done and the potential benefits of using biodiversity net-gain to provide an income as the land restores. In time we will be able to carry more cattle on the farm, whose beef, raised on wildflowers, trees and funghi will deliver significant benefits to all who eat it. A circle of life so finely tuned by nature but ignored by us for so long.

Enjoy the video and see you soon. Toby

WBEP - Update 2

Much has been done since we last put pen to paper about the Wendling Beck Environment Project. Including a new website: click here to take a look. In case you were wondering, Digg & Co., has been involved since the beginning and our work has spanned from initial masterplanning and ecological design into more detailed management plans and habitat mapping as the project moved from planning to the delivery stages.Along with this more technical work, an important part has been to visualise this new future.

Restoration work is often bound up in data and reams of text, but an artistic view of what we hope to create allows everyone, from all angles, to see into what will be created. We find that hand drawn images convey this far more emotively as one can never create something too perfect. In many ways this low on detail perspective allows us all to fill in our own blanks and become creative in light of stimulation. One of the drawings we made for the project is below. A bird’s eye view of the interlinked habitats as they may one day be.

A bird’s eye view of some of the project area

Over 220 acres of land has already been seeded with locally sourced native wildflowers which will begin the process of ecological restoration for a myriad of grassland types. These will gradually emerge as subtle variations in soil moisture, pH, nutrition and fungi all exert their influences on the landscape. The hope is that through these natural forces, a wide and highly biodiverse structure is established, which can then be gently steered through traditional hay making and contemporary stockmanship, to reach excellent levels of species richness.

As the summer approaches we will be taking regular visits to watch and learn from nature as she begins the process of repairing the soil. The project is blessed to be supported by universities and professionals alike, who during this rebirth of the land will be watching too, albeit with instruments and clipboards to closely monitor how the land responds and where to make changes for next time. We still have another 1700 acres to do!

For us, the next steps are to assist in the restorations of other areas and habitats, some of which are fairly complex, such as floodplain meadows and wood pasture. We are also looking forward, more than anything else, to seeing how the serendipitous nature of these landscapes ebb and flow in the early years and which plants, insects, fungi, birds, mammals, etc., decide to once again call this landscape home.

It is without doubt one of the wonders and luxuries of this work, that when most of the thinking is complete, we can step back and watch the natural world with awe as it reconnects the millions upon millions of threads of life which we all rely on every day.

Catch up soon.

Toby.

Life at Digg and Co.

Autumn turns to winter at Digg and Co. HQ. The last leaves fall from the trees around the farm, wellies and waterproofs become a daily essential, and a roaring fire keeps us warm as we work in the studio. Being part of Digg and Co. is more of a lifestyle than just a desk job, but that’s what makes it so special.

The studio, nestled amongst the rolling hills of Devon, acts as the meeting point for a network of people collaborating on projects of many different scales, but all based around habitat restoration and nature recovery. Studio life isn’t defined by a typical ‘employer/employee’ hierarchy, but rather operates as a collection of individuals who each bring a different skill set to the table. We each have our strengths, and work is divided as such: amongst the team we are landscape architects, farmers, ecologists, architects, garden designers, environmentalists, interior designers. It is this diversity of minds, sitting around a table, discussing big ideas (over a cup of tea, of course) that makes the studio feel so exciting and dynamic. We are constantly learning from one another, challenging the idea that ‘design’ is a distinct discipline. In the early stages of my career, having graduated from university two years ago, it’s awesome to still be learning every single day, and to be constantly exposed to and challenged by ideas outside of my area of knowledge.

The pattern of work is variable depending on project timelines, weather/seasons, and the demands of a working farm. Some weeks will be all hands on deck in the studio - the final push on a big project ready to start on site. Other weeks will be all hands on deck on the farm - the last window of fine weather to bale the hay before the rain comes in. Most weeks are somewhere in between - a studio day punctuated by planting bulbs or checking up on the cattle. It’s awesome to have this direct connection between learning in the studio and learning in the field (literally). We can make observations on a micro scale and return to the studio to apply our understanding to projects immediately, of up to tens of thousands of acres.

Having lived my whole life in a city, moving to (very rural) Devon felt like an exciting new chapter for me. Of course, there were feelings of doubt: I was moving 350 miles South of where I grew up, leaving behind many friends and family, starting a new job and, of course, there’s the whole farming thing! Not coming from a farming background, I’ve had a lot of learning to do on that front. I’m still adjusting to being totally relaxed amongst a herd of excited cattle, and have had a lot of lingo to catch up on (Steers? Heifers?). Hand-milking a cow or driving a quad bike aren’t exactly skills you pick up when living on a terraced urban street. But with the support of the Mill Barton gang, and the desire to learn more, I’m starting to get the hang of things around here, growing my confidence each time we head out onto the farm. It’s completely eye-opening, gaining a deeper understanding of how these animals are key players in ecosystems, of how food is produced, and of the workings (or, not-workings) of the UK food system.

Although the population is sparse, the sense of community feels extremely strong in Devon, and this is reflected in the studio culture. Each day we share lunch, taking turns to collect veg from the garden, cooking or washing up. We help each other out, dog-sitting or picking up shopping. Work blurs into life and life blurs into work, with a post-work bbq on a summer evening or a pint in the pub on a lousy November night. I’m lucky enough to call my colleagues friends. It’s much more encompassing than a ‘typical’ job, but the energy generated by spending time with like-minded people with a common passion and goal, living alongside nature and the seasons, is infectious. Six months in, I couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else.

Learning from Nature

This year has seen some deeply humbling work come through the studio. None more profound than beginning a journey of restoration and recovery within the highlands of Scotland.

Together with Glen Falloch estate and Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, we are pioneering novel ways of restoring biodiversity, repairing damaged and over-grazed land and linking remnant patches of ancient upland forest.

We can’t say much more for now, save sharing this video, which was shot whilst on location in one of the peatland re-wetting projects.

This was produced by the national park for COP26.

Developing natural solutions to climate change with Glen Falloch Estate and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.