Natural England

The East Anglian landscape is as beautiful as it is diverse. From the ‘semi-continental’ climate of The Brecks, to the rich tapestry of waterways and marshland found in the Broads, its picture-postcard appeal draws thousands of visitors to the region each year.

Yet the face of this countryside has been shaped by thousands of years of farming activity. One such activity that has dramatically altered the landscape throughout history is grazing.

How has grazing changed the countryside?
Most of our ‘natural’ heritage is, in fact, semi-natural in the sense that it is made up of collections of native plant and animal species which, over thousands of years, have adapted to man’s farming activities, including grazing. These communities are now reliant on man’s continuing management of their habitats if they are to survive. Activities such as grazing and mowing are crucial to maintaining the quality of certain types of habitat.

What does grazing achieve?
When animals are grazing they keep down choking invasive tall grasses, scrub and, sapling trees in environmentally sensitive areas. This clearance allows for a more species-rich spread of other grasses and wildflowers in valuable habitats such as grasslands, heathlands and fens. Cattle, sheep and horses also turn over the ground with their hooves and, of course, produce natural fertilisers for the plantlife!

What animals are used?
Mostly cattle, sheep and horse, but even rabbits too!

Why is so much countryside undergrazed today?
Since the war an increasing shift from mixed farming systems to the more profitable arable has meant that in many areas grazing animals are no longer found. The result is many fragile habitats, and the wildlife they support, are in danger of being lost.

What can I do?
Many farmers and landowners recognise the importance traditional farming practices, such as grazing, play in protecting habitats. Yet, in order to make the transition back to older farming styles they need the support of the local community to buy their produce and make their livestock economically viable. Try and buy local produce whenever possible. Go to farmers markets and find out about food in your area. In restaurants, ask if they use local produce in their food.

So the ecological health of the countryside, traditional farming and the lives of local people are all closely linked?
Exactly.

The Grazing, Landscape and Food project home