Knepp Castle Estate
Pioneering rewilding project that’s turned failing farm land into a profitable site of wildlife abundance
Berkshire
1,700 acres
2020
Large
Downland, Mixed woodland, Lakes and ponds and Grassland and meadow
Herbivores, Amphibians and Lapwing
Extensive grazing and Tree Planting
Volunteering, Local business gains and Education programme
Sheepdrove Organic Farm is dedicated to building on its dream of sustainability and self-sufficiency — continually working to improve its management of energy, water, soil and other natural resources. It invests in projects to conserve and enhance biodiversity.
The conversion to organic farming was a hugely positive experience for Sheepdrove, protecting them from the polluting chemicals of neighbouring farms and enabling them to recreate the original downland landscape. Now it’s ready to go further with an ambitious plan for rewilding as much as possible.
Sheepdrove already supports several nature based enterprises — , wedding and venue hire, and a natural burial ground. They also have plans to extend this with new enterprises including camping and glamping. It is anticipated that an increase in visitors to the project will also benefit local businesses.
An educational programme has also been planned for the project. In addition, local volunteers are engaged to collect bird and butterfly data for the project.
KICK-STARTING REWILDING
Planned reduction in sheep grazing to allow the introduction of other herbivores. Natural regeneration of woodlands will be encouraged and strengthened with native tree planting where appropriate.
Images: Sheepdrove Organic Farm & Alastair Driver
Pioneering rewilding project that’s turned failing farm land into a profitable site of wildlife abundance
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