PM 29 - Plant native hedgerows and hedgerow trees to improve connectivity
- Code
- PM 29
- Measure
- Plant native hedgerows and hedgerow trees to improve connectivity
- Description
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Hedgerows can provide vital linkages of natural habitat between otherwise disconnected areas and integrating trees within hedgerows can often increase species diversity and diversity in age and structure for wildlife. They can also provide long-term carbon sequestration which may be variable over the lifetime of a managed hedgerow. Natural regeneration could also be encouraged as well as improvements to hedgerow and hedgerow trees management. Planting of new hedgerows should aim to create a network of linkages for species movements and should be prioritised where existing hedge networks are lacking. The species, style of planting and management should reflect the relevant National Character Areas.
- Wider environmental benefits
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Increasing woodland cover Improving air quality Improving water quality Increasing flood risk management Reducing climate change impact Supporting health and cultural services Improving soil health Promoting nature friendly farming Supporting food provision
- Links to additional information and guidance
- Priority
- Hedgerow networks provide core habitats for biodiversity and landscape character
- Priority description
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Hedgerows are a key characteristic structure that represents the British countryside. They were used historically to outline topography, fields and boundaries between varying land use. Ecologically, hedgerows are key features that act as reservoirs for biodiversity and aid in habitat connectivity, as they provide linear strips of natural habitat connecting areas that may otherwise not be accessible to wildlife, such as large arable fields. Hedgerows are also important carbon stores and can help improve air quality whilst providing amenity value in many rural and urban landscapes.