Summary

An area of 17 ha of communal land, half of which is designated as a Natura 2000 site, was converted to support extensive grazing. This type of land management, designed to protect and expand the valuable habitats of plants and insects, will also create a new local supply chain for quality meat. 

The project area was cleared of unwanted vegetation and then fenced with outer and inner fences. The necessary infrastructure was established (water access for the animals, drinking vessels, electricity, gang ways etc.) to support extensive grazing, before finally, allowing the Dexter and Galloway breeds of cattle to be released.

Results

A total of 42 ha were prepared for extensive management. A part of the total area is a Natura 2000 protected site.

Biodiversity has improved in the intervention area.

The project has boosted local interest in nature.

A local short value chain has been established for the meat from the small Irish Dexter cattle breed.