Farming For Wildlife In The Mournes

Percy Kerr signed a new Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) Scheme agreement in November 2005, having successfully completed 10 years in the previous scheme. During the 10 year agreement, Percy had planted hedgerows and restored a traditional building.

An additional option in his new scheme is wild bird cover. A two year kale/quinoa mix has been established. The quinoa will provide food for farmland birds such as tree sparrow, linnet and skylark during the first winter, while the kale provides feeding seed in the second year.

Percy is pleased that such a good crop has been established, despite difficult sowing conditions last spring, and the challenge of growing the crop at 250 metres above sea level. He is encouraged by the number of birds attracted to the site.

Currently, in agri-environment schemes, 1490 hectares of wild bird cover are being established and 4840 hectares of winter stubble have been retained to support farmland birds. For more details on arable options or any other aspect of the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) or ESA, contact Countryside Management staff at your local DARD office.