In 2020, the Tees-Swale: Naturally Connected project purchased a small bracken crusher for use by landowners/farmers across the area. It can be pulled behind any ATV with a tow bar, making it handy for sites with restricted access (just like ours!).
Though much of the bracken at Heggs-Castle is on steep, rocky slopes and can only be managed by hand, this small area of bracken-covered flood plain is perfect bracken-crusher territory, making quick work of the 0.18 ha expanse.
This is the third year of crushing using this method and we’ve seen a distinct improvement: The bracken is much shorter and sparser than on the surrounding slopes (where it’s already 6-7ft tall), and the biodiversity amongst the fonds has visibly increased, with wildflowers, ferns and grasses establishing themselves in healthy numbers.
We are not seeking to eradicate bracken altogether; it creates a nurturing environment for young saplings, locking moisture in the ground and releasing a rich source of phosphorous to the soil as it dies back and mulches down. However, left completely unchecked, it can quickly dominate an area and spread, killing out competing grasses and herbage. As with everything we’re experimenting with at Heggs-Castle, it’s about trying to restore a healthy balance.
Top marks to Martin for actually doing the job under a hot sun, whilst I watched in the shade and gave the odd thumbs up…
We are hosting a guided walk on Saturday 28th September as part of the Yorkshire Rewilding Network’s Summer Site Visits program. This will be a great chance to mingle with likeminded individulas from across the county, learn more about YRN, and hear (and see) all we’ve been up to over the last few months. Places are limited so please reserve your spot on the Eventbrite booking page.
Heggs-Castle Renaturing Project 