Little Owl - Gavin Repton
As well as a model of sustainable food production, the land around Stirley Farm will also be enhanced to create species rich grassland which will be a haven for wildlife and become a crucial part of the West Yorkshire Living Landscape.
Wildlife Surveys
At the very beginning of the project, all 103 ha of Stirley Farm was surveyed to give an overview of its wildlife value before the project commenced. This included a Phase 1 Habitat survey where each area of the farm has been mapped in terms of its habitat. Grassland Surveys and Small Mammal Trapping, which revealed the presence of wood mice and bank voles, were undertaken by volunteers. Huddersfield Birdwatchers Society has also been involved in surveying different bird species.
Meadow Restoration and Enhancement
As part of a wider West Yorkshire project, Stirley Farm will become the centre of a meadow restoration scheme which aims to strengthen the network of grassland habitats across the region. Through an extensive grazing regime and sward enhancement in selected areas across the site, Stirley Farm will play an essential role in halting the loss of this important habitat.
Wildlife Friendly Gardening
At Stirley Farm, we provide a demonstration of how to garden in harmony with nature, in a way that is beneficial to wildlife and we hope to inspire people to take what they learn home with them and create their very own wildlife haven in their back garden!
Our growing area, which will include the vegetable training beds, soft fruit hedges, Forest Garden and formal orchard, demonstrate not only different ways of producing food but also create a range of habitats.
