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Hay Time Project

Hay time harvesting.
Image by YDMT.

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Why was there a need for the project?

Over the last sixty years, meadow quality and extent in the Yorkshire Dales National Park (YDNP) (and nationally) has declined dramatically. Although funding for restoration work has been available through agri-environment schemes such as the Pennines Dales Environmentally Sensitive Area, the lack of specialist machinery, trained contractors and dedicated staff to co-ordinate schemes had prevented much work from being undertaken.

What are the project's aims?

It aims to enhance and restore at least 200 hectares of upland and lowland meadows (MG3 and MG5 respectively) within and close to the YDNP. Meadow enhancement involves seed addition to traditionally managed meadows that are currently in agri-environment agreements but lack some characteristic species. Meadow restoration involves seed addition and/or better management of meadows that have declined following inappropriate management but still retain some botanical interest. Various methods and machinery are used to harvest and spread seed.

What has the project achieved so far?

To date, 143 hectares of meadow have had seed added and/or are in better management.

Who is involved?

Hay Time is a partnership between the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT) and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. It is supported by Natural England, Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group, Wildlife Trusts, Flora Locale, RSPB and others. Volunteers have helped with meadow surveys and seed collecting. There is a twin project being run with the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership. Meadow-themed events and activities for residents and visitors have featured heavily in the Hay Time Festival 2008 and the Flowers of the Dales Festival 2009. There is a FotD Festival now being planned for 2010.