Hedge Laying at Saltram
The Green Communities team recently visited Saltram to support our National Trust colleagues with hedge laying in the newly anticipated Saltram East.
This New Country Park Project will open up 32 hectares of new green space, creating more opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors and more space for nature.
Working together, we supported young volunteers to lay a hedge, introducing them to a new rural, green skill. We used tools such as a billhook to cut stems, and Silky saws to tidy cuts to prevent disease in trees.
Hedgelaying is an important conservation method that involves partially cutting the stem of a tree and laying it down against a bank. This method creates a livestock-proof barrier, improves biodiversity, and encourages new growth from the base. Typically done in winter, it fosters a healthy, sustainable hedge ecosystem by providing habitats, food and green corridors for wildlife.
It was fantastic to work alongside young volunteers, passing on traditional green skills, and sharing the different career paths and opportunities that are available in the conservation and heritage sector. It was also a great opportunity to see the work being done to support nature at Saltram, and working in partnership with our National Trust colleagues.
