With the support of a newly agreed agri-environment agreement, changes are being implemented at Cragg Farm to support the recovery of Cropple How Mire SSSI and other areas of the farm. The changes include the creation of wood pasture, expanding an area of regenerating woodland and veteran crab apple trees which provide a useful food source for invertebrates and other wildlife, and will slow the flow of water, providing shelter from climate extreme for the grazing stock. Working with local expert support, the farmer will be restoratively pruning a separate traditional orchard, and planting new fruit trees to enhance this habitat.
Work will also be undertaken to support the recovery and expansion of dry heath, blanket bog and upland flushes. Traditional hay making practices, hedgerow management and restoration of dry stone walls and traditional farm buildings will all support the landscape character of the area and a flock of Herdwick sheep remain at the farm as part of the grazing management of the area.
Through suitable management of the Cropple How Mire SSSI, including the blocking of drainage ditches with the support of Cumbria Wildlife Trust, the amount of water that it will be capable of retaining will increase, which in turn will reduce the peak flow of water in the river in the valley bottom.
Farming, forestry, nature and climate
The Lake District National Park Partnership is working in collaboration with farmers and land managers across the National Park to deliver nature recovery and climate resilience projects while supporting the continuation of farming and forestry and conservation of cultural heritage.
