What's next for Snaizeholme?
Completing the sale for the land was only half the story. The hard work to create a mosaic of habitats for wildlife and people here in the Yorkshire Dales is just beginning.
Tree planting
We're planning to create one of the largest new native woodlands in England here at Snaizeholme. It will join riverside pasture, wooded valley sides, peat bogs and limestone pavement to form a diverse mix of wildlife-rich habitats.
Peatland
Snaizeholme has more than 250 acres of upland peat bog, which should act as a huge sponge to absorb rainfall and slow the flow of floodwater down the valley and into the River Ure. But at the moment it is scored by drainage channels, allowing soil to erode, streams to fill rapidly, and drying everything out, putting the species that rely on it under pressure. We'll look to restore this important peatland to a healthy state.
Slowing the flow
With a staggering 21 streams running down into Snaizeholme Beck, there is a huge amount of work needed to slow the headlong rush of water downstream during heavy rains. Alongside our plans to restore peatland, we'll use leaky dams to slow water flow and trap sediment, all while letting fish and crayfish safely slip through.
Limestone pavements
Two large areas of fossil-rich limestone pavement sit above the peat bog. They are a refuge for ground nesting birds such as golden plover and are used by black grouse during breeding displays. The pastures here are also strongholds for the delicate mountain pansy. We'll protect this rare habitat with seasonal grazing.
Dry stone walls
Snaizeholme is criss-crossed with old dry stone walls, perfect for harbouring small mammals and common lizards. We'll maintain walls that offer a variety of conditions - whether shady, sun-warmed, exposed or sheltered - keeping the landscape's character and providing corridors and habitat for wildlife.
Tree protection
Deer, rabbits and sheep can cause havoc by browsing and nibbling at newly planted saplings. The Woodland Trust has promised to use plastic-free alternatives to tree guards by the end of 2021 and the trees we plant at Snaizeholme will be included in this pledge.