Special archaeological protection at Peak farm
Submitted by vicky on Friday, 11 October 2002 Page Views: 1630
Discoveries A Peak District farmer has made a special commitment that will protect and improve the landscape, wildlife and archaeology of his whole farm for the next ten years.Stuart Bagnall (47) farms over 100 hectares at Greenside Farm, Longnor, near Buxton. His land contains flower and herb-rich pastures and grasslands which support species of birds and insects that need protecting. There are a host of archaeological features including a Bronze Age barrow [according to John Barnatt this is Upper Edge round barrow], hollow ways, old quarries, lime kilns and lead rakes. There are also rare examples of limestone heaths and limestone pavement and a public footpath crosses the land.
Working with the National Park Authority, Stuart has agreed to reduce the number of stock and rear his animals without bought-in feed. This will encourage biodiversity, improve water quality and help protect the archaeological features. It will also reduce the number of vehicles coming to and from the farm.
Lynn Crowe, Chair of the Authority's Park Management Committee, said, "We have many arrangements with farmers who are committed to conservation but this is the best example to date of someone who will manage his whole farm in a way that will ensure its conservation and enhancement.
"We recognise that not all farmers would be attracted to such arrangements at the moment but the government wants to encourage agreements like this so it's particularly satisfying to know that Greenside Farm, with all its special features, will be protected for the next ten years."
Stuart said, "In the past the government has encouraged farmers to maximise production. But that's changing now. People realise that conservation is also important, especially as so many plants and birds and animals could be lost because of modern farming methods."
To help Stuart carry out the work involved in farming sustainably the National Park Authority has awarded him an annual management payment of just over £5,000.
He said, "Millions of pounds have been invested in industrial farming. I just feel privileged to receive this support which will enable me to make a living in a way that not only protects the farm's special features but also looks after and improves them for the future."
Source: Peak District National Park
We would like to know more about this location. Please feel free to add a brief description and any relevant information in your own language.
Wir möchten mehr über diese Stätte erfahren. Bitte zögern Sie nicht, eine kurze Beschreibung und relevante Informationen in Deutsch hinzuzufügen.
Nous aimerions en savoir encore un peu sur les lieux. S'il vous plaît n'hesitez pas à ajouter une courte description et tous les renseignements pertinents dans votre propre langue.
Quisieramos informarnos un poco más de las lugares. No dude en añadir una breve descripción y otros datos relevantes en su propio idioma.