Hedge-cutting
season to end next week
22.02.23
LANDOWNERS in Inishowen
are being reminded that hedge-cutting season comes to an
end on Tuesday, February 28. Hedgerows play an important
role in providing food and shelter for wildlife and
contribute to the landscape character of the peninsula.
From the end of February until the end of August,
hedge-cutting is not permitted under the Wildlife Acts
which recognise the importance of conserving hedgerows
and other vegetation for breeding birds, other animals
and plants. Public works involving the disturbance of
hedgerows during this period may only be carried out for
reasons of public health and safety.
“Almost two-thirds of Ireland’s bird species nest in
hedges and these hedgerows provide natural corridors
that permit wildlife to move between habitats,”
explained Joseph Gallagher, County Donegal Heritage
Officer. “Donegal County Council recognises the
importance of maintaining hedgerows as part of wise
conservation of our natural heritage, good farming
practice and protecting County Donegal’s natural and
picturesque beauty. The maintenance of our hedgerows
supports our collective efforts to reduce biodiversity
loss and protect our natural heritage.” |
 |
|
A roadside hedgerow near
St. Johnston. The cutting of hedges from the end of
February until the end of August is not permitted under
the Wildlife Acts. |
Reports of unauthorised
hedge-cutting should be made to the National Parks &
Wildlife Service (
www.npws.ie ) or the Gardaí who have statutory
powers to enforce the Wildlife Acts.
Common hedgerow species in Donegal include ash,
hawthorn, blackthorn, beech, eared willow, rusty willow,
gorse, cotoneaster, fuchsia and privet. If you would
like to find out more about the wise management of
hedgerows, a booklet entitled Conserving Hedgerows is
available free-of-charge from the County Donegal
Heritage Office on 074 91 72576 or by email at
heritage@donegalcoco.ie . |
|
