Steps taken to manage meadow land and reduce fire risk during hot weather
The councils operate a number of wildflower meadows within the open spaces it manages to increase biodiversity across the districts.
However, recent heatwaves and drought have led to increased concerns over risk of fires – with biodiversity experts offering reassurance over the steps being taken to ensure responsible land management.
Seasonal mowing would usually start in late August, but the councils have decided to bring this forward following:
- the prolonged hot, dry weather during June and July
- discussions with partners
- Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service raising awareness of increased risk of field fires due to the recent weather conditions
In many areas, the grass is brown to the ground, and therefore no longer supporting as much wildlife, so the councils will be clearing them early as a precaution.
Priority will be given to meadows close to fences or houses, with more remote meadows left until later to retain habitat for wildlife.
Any ecological impact will be limited, with the hot weather already having hastened the lifecycle of many species.
“We know many people care about their local wildflower meadows and want to understand what action is being taken and why.
“We hope this offers some reassurance of the factors that are considered by our biodiversity experts to ensure their maintenance provides a balance between supporting biodiversity and also considering the safety of our local communities.”
“Of course we want to encourage biodiversity, but we are also responsible landowners.
“By taking these steps we can take timely action to reduce the risk of fire, whilst retaining the majority of our meadows where wildlife can continue to flourish for as long as possible."
Find out more about the councils' wildflower meadows, where they are, and how they are managed.
