River Holme Connections (RHC) is an environmental charity that is passionate about making the River Holme a better place for people and wildlife. With the help of dedicated volunteers, RHC works to improve biodiversity, tackle invasive non-native species, clean up green spaces, educate people about the importance of river and terrestrial ecosystems and improve recreational opportunities for the whole community. We work with people and groups from across all sectors of society to help improve our local rivers and green spaces.
Over 97% of species rich grasslands were lost in England and Wales between 1930 and 1984. The key cause of these losses has been the conversion of unimproved grasslands to improved grassland. Species-rich grasslands may be less agriculturally productive, but there is a positive correlation between the number of plant species and the provision of ecosystem services such as pollination, pest control and carbon storage. These grasslands also have a high cultural value and provide benefits for human health and well-being and are priority habitats for nature conservation.
The funding from the Elgol Fund for Nature will allow us create 9 Ha of species rich grassland at 6 sites in the Holme Valley. These grasslands will be managed as traditional hay meadows (late summer cut with light grazing over the winter months, before livestock are shut out over spring and summer). We will involve our volunteers and local community groups to help with the wildflower seed harvesting, seed sowing, wildflower plug growing, plug planting and hay meadow management (cutting and raking).
All photos courtesy of the River Holme Connections
