We are urgently developing research requirements with other European laboratories to make sure we understand and the disease (Schmallenberg) better.Ponies are on a mission to munch
NEW Forest ponies have been recruited to assist conservation of one of the world’s most endangered habitats.
The Forestry Commission has linked up with the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust (NWT), to use 11 New Forest ponies, owned by local man Gavin Wagstaff, to help manage key areas of lowland heath in 1,200-hectare (3,000-acre) Sherwood Pines Forest Park, near Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire.
It’s the first time grazing ponies have been used for the task and their mission is to munch through unwanted vegetation, including tree regeneration and thick grass, and allow heather to flourish. The scheme will provide a major boost for lizards, birds and insects.
Andy Lowe, Community and Wildlife Officer with NWT, said: “Sheep and cattle have both been used to carry out a similar role, but the big advantage of the ponies, is they will roam far and wide, trample the grass, and also not feast on the heather.”
Medieval times
Like its southern counterpart, Sherwood Forest was also a Royal hunting ground, and is thought to have covered 40,000 hectares (100,000 acres) in medieval times. However, few people realise that a third was heathland, not woodland.
Adrienne Bennett, Ecologist with the Forestry Commission, explained: “We have a long-term project to restore heath in Sherwood Pines and over the last 20 years we have reinstated about 69 hectares (172 acres), mainly by clearing pine trees.
“The result is a vibrant mix of habitats, capable of offering a haven for a wide range of creatures. As far as the ponies are concerned, we’re pretty sure they’ll feel at home in the forest.”
Britain has 20 per cent of the world’s lowland heath – a habitat rarer and more threatened than the rainforest. That means the UK has a particular responsibility to conserve this dwindling habitat and the Forestry Commission is working with partners like the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust to protect this vital resource.