Hedge-cutting
season comes to an end
16.02.21
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LANDOWNERS in Inishowen are
being reminded that hedge-cutting season comes to an end
on February 28. Almost two-thirds of Ireland’s bird
species nest in hedges and these hedgerows provide
natural corridors that permit wildlife to move between
habitats. From the end of February until the end of
August, hedge-cutting is not permitted under the
Wildlife Acts which recognise the importance of
conserving hedgerows and other vegetation for breeding
birds, other animals and plants. Public works involving
the disturbance of hedgerows during this period may only
be carried out for reasons of public health and safety. |
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A roadside hedgerow near St. Johnston.
The cutting of hedges from the end of February until the
end of August is not permitted under the Wildlife Acts. |
“Hedgerows play an
important role in supporting wildlife and contribute to
the landscape character of County Donegal,” explained
Joseph Gallagher, County Donegal Heritage Officer.
“Hedges and other wild vegetation provide food and
shelter for insects, birds and other animals. Donegal
County Council recognises the importance of maintaining
hedgerows as part of wise conservation of our natural
heritage, good farming practice and protecting County
Donegal’s natural and picturesque beauty. In these
challenging times for our biodiversity and natural
heritage, and as custodians of our landscape, it is
important that the closed season on hedge-cutting is
observed.”
Hedgerows cover approximately 1.5% of the land area of
Ireland and, based on a survey commissioned under the
County Heritage Plan, there are 10,408 kilometres of
hedgerows in County Donegal. Common hedgerow species in
County Donegal include ash, hawthorn, blackthorn, beech,
eared willow, rusty willow, gorse, cotoneaster, fuchsia
and privet. The survey found that 7% of hedgerows are
either remnant or derelict with a further 40% of
hedgerows losing structure meaning that they are not in
a favourable condition for fulfilling their role in
providing wildlife habitats and stock–proof barriers.
If you would like to find out more about the wise
management of hedgerows, The Heritage Council has
produced a booklet with advice on best conservation
practice and on planting native species. Copies of the
booklet entitled Conserving Hedgerows/Caomhnú Fálta are
available free-of-charge from the County Donegal
Heritage Office on 074 91 72576 or by email at
heritage@donegalcoco.ie . The Hedgerow Survey of
County Donegal can be downloaded from the County Donegal
Heritage Office website at
www.donegalcoco.ie . |
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