Come along to one of our Hedgerow Hopes events to find out what biodiversity our native hedges support, how to restore a hedgerow and why they are one of nature’s food stores.
Species-rich hedgerows are important to us as well as to our wildlife. They are of historical and landscape importance often marking townland or estate boundaries. They also:
- provide colour, shelter and food,
- act as stock barriers, and
- prevent soil erosion.
Unfortunately, our native hedgerows can lose these values due to neglect or mismanagement. So, we’ve teamed up with Belfast, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey councils to restore and enhance the hedgerows in these areas.
You can play your part too. We want you to get involved to help restore and manage hedgerows. We’ll provide you with training to help you develop the skills required to support the hedgerow restoration project.
Have ever wondered which hedgerow plants are edible, when to pick them or what to cook with them? If so, then these events are for you. From Elderflower cordial to Rosehip syrup or Blackberry jam there’s bound to be a recipe to suit your taste buds.
Over the next two years we will be running training workshops and foraging events in the autumn and winter. To get involved in the Hedgerow Hopes Project, or for further information contact Ruth Wilson on 9446 3113 ext 1371 or ruth.wilson@antrim.gov.uk
This project is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund, ‘Your Heritage Programme’ in partnership with Belfast, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey Councils www.hlf.org.uk
