Brian McKeown's species-rich grassland, teeming with orchids and wildflowers
Hundreds of hectares of Fermanagh’s once-lost, flower-rich grasslands have been meticulously mapped to ensure vital protection through the Environmental Farming Scheme (EFS).
Since the 1930s, the UK has seen a devastating 97% decline in species-rich grasslands, leaving only scattered fragments vulnerable to development, agricultural improvements, and invasive species. However, Fermanagh remains a stronghold for Northern Ireland’s species-rich grasslands, making mapping these areas crucial for their conservation.
Over the last three years, Ulster Wildlife has surveyed 858 hectares of species-rich grassland across the county, equivalent to approximately 1,200 football pitches, through its dedicated EFS Group programme. Detailed information is collected on the location, extent, quality, and condition of the grasslands, helping to aid planning and decision-making. 60% of these areas are now eligible for agri-environment payments, potentially adding £150,000 in additional income for local farmers.
Since the 1930s, the UK has seen a devastating 97% decline in species-rich grasslands, leaving only scattered fragments vulnerable to development, agricultural improvements, and invasive species. However, Fermanagh remains a stronghold for Northern Ireland’s species-rich grasslands, making mapping these areas crucial for their conservation.
Over the last three years, Ulster Wildlife has surveyed 858 hectares of species-rich grassland across the county, equivalent to approximately 1,200 football pitches, through its dedicated EFS Group programme. Detailed information is collected on the location, extent, quality, and condition of the grasslands, helping to aid planning and decision-making. 60% of these areas are now eligible for agri-environment payments, potentially adding £150,000 in additional income for local farmers.
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