Hedgerow Management Training

This training is aimed at farmers, landowners and land managers in Fife who want to better understand how to establish and manage hedgerows. Who is this training for? This training is aimed at farmers, landowners and land managers in Fife who want to better understand how to establish, assess, manage and restore hedgerows as part of a productive farmed landscape. It is suitable whether you already have an extensive hedgerow network, have inherited older or neglected hedges, or are considering establishing or restoring hedgerows on your land. Why attend? A healthy hedgerow is a long-term farm asset. How and when it is established, cut, laid, coppiced or rejuvenated can significantly affect its structure, longevity, wildlife value and the benefits it provides to the wider farm. The training will explore: • how to assess hedgerow condition, structure and gaps; • the hedgerow lifecycle, from establishment through to restoration; • successful establishment, protection and aftercare; • rotational cutting and different management approaches; • laying, coppicing and rejuvenating older hedges; • managing hedgerows for biodiversity, connectivity, shelter, soils and water; • balancing environmental benefits with farm objectives; and • developing a simple long-term approach to hedgerow management across a holding. The aim is to give participants the knowledge to look at their own hedgerows differently, understand what stage they are at and make more informed decisions about how they should be managed over time. What does the training not cover? This is a knowledge and decision-making course rather than a practical hedgelaying, cutting or machinery course. Participants will not be carrying out physical hedgerow work and the training does not provide an accredited practical qualification. Funding and agricultural support may be discussed where relevant, but the course is not intended to provide property-specific scheme, grant or regulatory advice. If you book places but then can't attend, please let us know by cancelling your ticket on Eventbrite, or by emailing [email protected] or phoning 01592 656080. Nearer the event we will email all participants with details of the meeting place.