17 April 2023

Grass margins in grass fields

Grass margins provide corridors of movement and networks for nature through the countryside, as well as habitats of high biodiversity value. Good structure is as important as species present. Lumpy and bumpy is good for associated invertebrates.

Management which allows grasses and broadleaved plants to go to seed allows them to regenerate, and provides flowers and seed for bees and birds:

• create a grass margin by May 15, 2023 by erecting a permanent stock-proof fence either two, three, or six metres out from the field boundary – as selected in your ACRES application;
• to create a grass litter layer, you cannot cut or graze the margin between May 15, 2023 and August 31, 2024;
• from 2024 onwards you must cut the margin between September and February, but not below 10cm to ensure the litter layer is retained – alternatively, margins may be managed by grazing, but this can only take place during September and ensure that no poaching occurs, and that the litter layer remains;
• chemical or organic fertiliser or lime cannot be applied to the margin;
• pesticides and herbicides are not permitted, except for the spot treatment of noxious/invasive weeds;
• margins must be stock proof and fenced with permanent stakes and wire appropriate for the livestock type; and,
• the margin(s) must remain in the same location for the duration of the contract.

Small tortoiseshell butterfly. House sparrow. Credit: Michael Finn.

Read the Teagasc Environment Newsletter – April 2023 here