Long Deans Nature Reserve, Hemel Hempstead – Restoration of Chalk Grassland and Veteran Trees

This project will secure the future of a key chalk grassland site in Hertfordshire, Long Deans nature reserve. Chalk grassland (Biodiversity Action Plan priority habitat) is a rare habitat; alarmingly 97% of our grasslands have disappeared since 1940 (The Grasslands Trust). There are also several veteran trees on site; vital habitat for invertebrates and nesting birds.

Our project will deliver a programme of habitat restoration work. This will include replacing the currently failing fencing with robust livestock fencing to enable grazing. With the help of volunteers we will perform a series of grassland cutting work parties, removing dominant grasses and allowing more delicate wildflowers to thrive. We will use a specialist contractor to restore the veteran trees, removing parts of the tree that are vulnerable to wind break, increasing their longevity.