In partnership with the Bat Conservation Trust and the Woodland Trust, THRC were appointed to implement an agroforestry design across grazing pastureland
Agroforestry Planting at Firebeacon Farm
Client Brief
In partnership with the Bat Conservation Trust and the Woodland Trust, we were appointed to implement an agroforestry design across grazing pastureland on a livestock farm near Tiverton.
The scheme comprised two distinct elements: the establishment of five roundels within rotational grazing fields, and the creation of three silvopasture alleys designed to function as shelter belts across exposed pasture.
The first section consisted of installing 5 roundels across two fields within the rotational grazing pastureland of the farm. The roundels needed to consist of a central “parkland” tree, of which here the chosen species was Oak. We were then to plant two further middle rings of nurse trees to consist of species akin for immediate crop, firewood, charcoal and woodchip, with a further outer ring consisting of shrubs and coppiceable species. These were to be planted at 2m spacings, and within the existing triangular sweet chestnut fencing stakes set out by a fencing contractor.
The second section consisted of 3 silvopasture alleyways that ran directly down the middle of three different fields, planted with the idea of being used as shelter belts for grazing livestock. There were to be 3 rows in each alley way, with the central row being planted with standard, large tree species in 1.2m tubes and stake protection, with this row being flanked by 2 external rows of smaller shrub species on either side, planted at 1m spacing in a more hedgerow-type formation.
THRC Solution
Working alongside the fencing contractors, our team carefully set out each roundel and alley to ensure accurate spacing and alignment before planting commenced. Trees were organised in advance according to their designated positions, enabling efficient installation and precise implementation of the design.
Planting operations were carried out in coordinated teams, with one group marking positions while another followed to plant according to specification. All trees were protected with mulch mats and secured with pegs to support establishment and suppress competing vegetation.
The scheme was delivered efficiently and in full accordance with the design plan.
End Result
This busy working farm has now introduced a varied and structured approach to agroforestry on their farm, providing a plethora of wildlife and habitat benefits for native fauna, and also livestock. The planting plans have provided shelterbelts, nesting sites, aid with water retention and soil quality on site, along with providing a varied and expansive species of trees that fruit and flower throughout the year, providing good quality timber, nectar and potential for future uses.
