Hedges: Connectivity, Conservation & Compliance – Ayrshire

Book event

Join us for an engaging on-farm event on Wednesday 12th November focused on the practical and environmental value of well-managed hedgerows. As changes to greening requirements come into effect from 2026, now is the time to understand how hedges can help achieve compliance, enhance farm productivity and environmental performance.

This practical session will explore how hedgerows contribute to biodiversity, shelter livestock, protect soils, and improve water quality — all while supporting compliance with future policy. Attendees will have the opportunity to see first-hand how good management can improve hedge condition and long-term resilience.

The event will feature:

  • Practical hedgelaying – Graeme Walker, a qualified Scottish hedgelayer, will cover traditional and modern techniques to rejuvenate hedges, improve structure, and extend their lifespan.
  • Biodiversity and hedge condition assessment – Dr Lorna Cole, ecologist, will explain how to assess hedge quality, why diverse hedges matter for pollinators, birds, and carbon storage, and how to score their condition using practical field methods.
  • Policy update: Greening and future requirements – Alexander Pirie, agricultural consultant, will outline upcoming greening measures from 2026 and how well-managed hedgerows can contribute to meeting these requirements while adding value to your business.

Hedgerows are one of the most valuable yet underappreciated features on Scottish farms. They provide shelter, reduce wind erosion, support wildlife corridors, and enhance landscape character — all while contributing to productive, sustainable farming systems.

This is a valuable opportunity to learn about practical hedge management in action, engage with specialists, and safeguard your future support with natural capital assets you already have.

Booking is essential for catering purposes, please bring appropriate footwear and clothing.

Please use the above map for an exact meeting location. Alternatively, use the following What3Words location: Sandyford Farm.

Related FAS Material: 

Technical Note (TN738): Hedges – Carbon, Conservation & Compliance