Hedgerow planting in the Hope Valley

Hope Valley Climate Action seeks to provide a local response to the global climate crisis.

The ‘every fence a hedge’ project has seen 20 farmers from the Hope Valley Farmers and Bradfield Farmers groups plant a total of around 2,400 metres of new hedges, and have gapped up another 500 metres. They have also planted 2,000 oak trees. Free whips, stakes and guards were supplied by the Woodland Trust, with funding from Farming in Protected Landscapes to install fencing and maintenance payments.

In February 2023, volunteers added to this by planting 230 metres of hedgerow at Hope Valley Showground.

The aim is to increase the length of hedgerow in the Hope Valley by at least 40% , storing carbon to mitigate climate change. Carbon capture will be monitored, as well as impacts on nature. Each kilometre of well-maintained hedge can potentially lock up 1,000 kilos of carbon every year, contributing to net zero by 2050.

The next phase of the project plans to map existing hedges and their condition, as well as find new fences for hedgerow planting.

© Hope Valley Climate Action