UK Nature and Environment

Since the 1930s, the UK has seen a devastating 97% decline in species-rich grasslands, leaving only scattered fragments vulnerable to development, agricultural improvements, and invasive species. Fermanagh, however, remains a stronghold for Northern Ireland’s species-rich grasslands, making the mapping of these areas crucial for their conservation.

Over the last three years, Ulster Wildlife has surveyed 858 hectares of species-rich grassland across the county, equivalent to approximately 1,200 football pitches, through its dedicated EFS Group programme. Detailed information is collected on the location, extent, quality, and condition of the grasslands, helping to aid planning and decision-making. 60% of these areas are now eligible for agri-environment payments, potentially adding £150,000 in additional income for local farmers.

Brian Keown, who farms sheep and sucklers on 75 hectares near Garrison, is one of many Fermanagh farmers now eligible for the EFS scheme after his species-rich fields were assessed by farm facilitators from the local nature conservation charity. Brian will now work with Ulster Wildlife over the summer to develop a farm plan to manage these rare grassland habitats. This will enable him to enter a five-year agreement that offers financial incentives to manage and protect this high-nature-value land.