We conduct comprehensive surveys to assess habitat conditions, ensuring our efforts are guided by accurate data and tailored to specific needs.
Basic surveys are essential to understanding the current state of a habitat, enabling informed decision-making and targeted conservation efforts.
How it's Achieved: Our survey process involves a systematic assessment of the habitat, including its flora and fauna. We utilise field surveys, remote sensing technology, and data analysis to compile comprehensive reports. This information forms the basis for developing effective management plans and ensuring that our conservation efforts are guided by accurate, up-to-date data.
Heathland Maintenance
We excel in the care and preservation of heathland ecosystems, promoting the unique and diverse species found within these areas.
Heathlands are unique ecosystems characterised by open, often acidic soils and a wealth of specialised plant and animal species. Managing heathlands is crucial to maintaining their biodiversity and health.
How it's Achieved: Our heathland management services begin with a thorough assessment of the site's current condition. We then employ a combination of techniques, to maintain the open, heath-dominated landscape. These actions help prevent the encroachment of woody vegetation, which can threaten the heathland's characteristic flora and fauna
Grassland Maintenance
Our expertise extends to nurturing and maintaining vibrant grasslands, essential for numerous species and ecosystem stability.
Grasslands are vital habitats for a wide range of species, from wildflowers to butterflies and birds. Proper management is essential to prevent the dominance of aggressive grasses and promote biodiversity.
How it's Achieved: Our grassland management approach starts with a detailed survey to identify the existing plant species and their condition. We then implement a tailored management plan, which may include rotational mowing, and the reintroduction of native wildflowers. This strategy encourages a diverse mix of plants and provides valuable food and nesting sites for wildlife.
Hedge laying
Hedge laying services are a testament to our commitment to conservation and the application of specialised skills in habitat management. We meticulously assess each hedgerow, carefully selecting the species and techniques that will yield the best results.
We take great pride in our expertise in hedge laying, a traditional yet highly effective method for transforming overgrown and aging hedgerows into thriving ecosystems. Hedgerows are pivotal for biodiversity, providing habitats for wildlife and promoting ecological connectivity. Through our skilled hedge laying services, we enhance these natural features, boosting their longevity and ecological value.
How it's Achieved: HCC's approach to hedge laying is a fusion of expert knowledge and hands-on skills. Our team carefully selects woody species, such as hawthorn, blackthorn, and hazel, as well as the best techniques for each unique project. We start by partially cutting the living branches, or pleachers, and then gently bend and lay them at an angle while keeping them rooted to the base of the hedge. This meticulous process thickens the hedge and encourages new growth, creating a robust and stock-proof barrier that not only revitalises the hedge but also offers a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. Moreover, our specialised techniques fortify the hedge, making it more resilient against diseases and wind damage.
Invasive species removal
We actively combat invasive species that threaten the balance of semi-natural habitats, restoring them to their natural state.
Invasive species can outcompete native plants and disrupt ecosystems. Removal is critical to restoring and preserving the balance of natural habitats.
How it's Achieved: Invasive species removal begins with a thorough assessment of the infested area. We then employ a combination of methods, such as manual removal, herbicide application (when necessary and carefully controlled), and regular monitoring to prevent re-infestation. Our approach is tailored to the specific invasive species and their distribution, ensuring a targeted and effective removal process while minimising disruption to native flora and fauna.
