Conservation Grazing at Bakethin

Grazing is one of the most important conservation tools for the management of habitats.  Grazing creates a varied structure, it happens gradually and bare patches are created through trampling, which are important niches for the colonization of species.

Exmoor ponies currently graze 12 hectares at Bakethin reservoir.  They have been grazing the site for three years in order to knock back the invasive common reed, which has been out-competing other species such as the fragrant orchid. 

Vegetation surveys from 2005 and 2006 have already shown that the number of higher plant species has increased from 78 to 99 as a result of the winter grazing by the ponies.  Examples of higher plant species include; yellow rattle, marsh hawks beard and round-leaved sundew.

Lead partner

Northumbrian Water

Other partners

Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Moorland Mousie Trust

Action plans that the project helps to deliver

Fen, marsh and swamp

Start date

Jan 2004

End date

Ongoing

Funded by

Northumbrian Water

Who to contact for further information

Kelly Hollings
kelly.hollings@nwl.co.uk
01434 250 320