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Farm4bio farm-scale management of uncropped land for biodiversity

farm4bio

Biodiversity is valuable for more than just environmental reasons: it underpins the biological processes associated with agricultural production. Increasing biodiversity can enhance the contribution of natural enemies to pest control and some agri-environment options can act as buffers to protect watercourses from spray drift and soil erosion.

Based on the five-year Farm4bio research project, the free guide looks at simple techniques to enhance on-farm biodiversity through the efficient use of land, without impacting significantly on farm management and profitability.

Enhancing arable biodiversity through the management of uncropped land - an HGCA guide


Results from the project

Research showed that substantial value can be added to a farm's biodiversity by sowing additional uncropped areas with flower and seed mixtures to benefit wildlife.

Click to see the beneficial effects on wildlife including butterflies and bees.

 

Trial sites

This is a large and unique project studying the ecology and biodiversity across 100ha (250 acres) on each of the 28 farms in the project.

Click for more information on trial sites and locations. 

Habitats and establishment

Floristically enhanced grass mix

Wildbird cover

Annual cultivation to encourage annual arable plants

Insect rich cover (triticale and vetch) 


Click for more information on the different habitats and the wildlife they support 

Partners and Funding

HGCA Funding  £157,367HGCA logo
Total cost  £1,080,137
Start date 01 August 2005
End date 28 February 2010
Lead Scientist John Holland, GWCT

 
Click on logos for partners websites

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