FARMERS in County Durham are being urged to give a much-needed boost to wildlife and save cash.
Durham County Council is calling on them not to cut their hedges and to instead let nature take its course.
According to research, cutting hedges each year has a marked effect on their long-term survival, and also reduces their value for wildlife.
An estimated 228km of hedgerow becomes derelict in County Durham each year.
The council says significant improvements in the health of a hedge and its wildlife can be achieved by taking a more flexible approach to management.
A new advice leaflet is being prepared and will be available to farmers landowners shortly.
It is the latest initiative of an ongoing field boundary project which the council is supporting.
For more information about boundary hedge grants call 0191-383 4078
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article