Hedgelaying - Burt Hunter
Hedgelaying, a time-honoured rural craft spanning centuries, plays a pivotal role in the preservation of our countryside. The proper stewardship of hedgerows is crucial for the conservation of wildlife and landscapes for the generations to come.
These hedgerows not only define the character of our rural landscapes but also serve as vital contributors to environmental well-being. They offer essential services and act as sanctuaries, sources of nourishment, and pathways for wildlife to navigate the terrain.
Effective hedgerow management is imperative for their sustained health and the provision of optimal habitats. Excessive pruning, maintaining a consistent height annually, can lead to degradation, resulting in a hollow base that offers minimal shelter for wildlife. Conversely, neglect can cause hedgerows to grow excessively tall, and eventually become a row of isolated trees.
Sympathetic management, allowing for the development of blossoms and berries, gradual size increase, and maintaining overall health, is crucial. While every hedge eventually requires rejuvenation, hedgelaying stands out as one of the most effective and traditional methods. A laid hedge not only creates a secure barrier for livestock but also establishes a dense wildlife habitat. Most importantly, it stimulates new growth, initiating a fresh life cycle for the hedge.
In essence, hedgelaying becomes a means to preserve the past and safeguard the future, ensuring the continued harmony between rural landscapes and the diverse ecosystems they support.
These hedgerows not only define the character of our rural landscapes but also serve as vital contributors to environmental well-being. They offer essential services and act as sanctuaries, sources of nourishment, and pathways for wildlife to navigate the terrain.
Effective hedgerow management is imperative for their sustained health and the provision of optimal habitats. Excessive pruning, maintaining a consistent height annually, can lead to degradation, resulting in a hollow base that offers minimal shelter for wildlife. Conversely, neglect can cause hedgerows to grow excessively tall, and eventually become a row of isolated trees.
Sympathetic management, allowing for the development of blossoms and berries, gradual size increase, and maintaining overall health, is crucial. While every hedge eventually requires rejuvenation, hedgelaying stands out as one of the most effective and traditional methods. A laid hedge not only creates a secure barrier for livestock but also establishes a dense wildlife habitat. Most importantly, it stimulates new growth, initiating a fresh life cycle for the hedge.
In essence, hedgelaying becomes a means to preserve the past and safeguard the future, ensuring the continued harmony between rural landscapes and the diverse ecosystems they support.
Burt Hunter, from Knitsley has a remarkable 40-year + experience as a hedgelayer. With a deep passion for natural history and a strong foundation in traditional country skills, he is highly sought after in dual roles—serving not only as a skilled hedgelayer but also as an instructor, dedicated to perpetuating and passing on the art of traditional hedgelaying.