Elan Hay Meadows

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Across the UK, 97% of our traditional wildflower meadows have been lost. Elan Valley, however, is home to many upland hay meadows – including a coronation meadow – all of which are a wonderful sight in full bloom and are of enormous benefit in pollination. Elan Valley’s meadows retain fantastic floristic diversity and insect life but scientific studies have shown that appropriate management such as liming and occasional applications of farmyard manure are needed to keep these meadows thriving.

This project will work with farmers to make sure our hay meadows continue to thrive in the future.

The scientific study examining management of Elan’s hay meadows has identified clear evidence that our meadows, in general, are becoming progressively more infertile and acidic.  

Over the next five years, this project aims to deliver:

12 hectares of hay meadow under favourable management

In-by field management plan

10 people trained in hay meadow management skills

Two stakeholder days and five demonstrating and volunteering days

End of project report with recommendations for future management

Interpretation to a wider audience

Download the project plan.

Read our Flowers of the Elan Meadows booklet.

Featuring all the flowers that grow in this unique landscape, this guide is a must for those visiting us during the summer months. See how many flowers you can identify.