Conservation at Tiffenden Airfield
The land that Tiffenden Airfield occupies is regulated by the Soil Association and registered as organic. As part of operating an organic system, conservation sits at the heart of the airfield. Many Barn Owl boxes have been erected and we are pleased to report that they are occupied. Airfields offer open areas of mown grassland and provide excellent habitat for small mammals and insects. The bee count at Tiffenden Airfield is strong and they really do well on the mown areas that have Birds Foot Trefoil and Clover.
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Adjacent to Tiffenden Airfield is an SNCI - Site of Nature Conservation Interest. The wild flower seed from this site has been spread over the grasslands of Tiffenden Airfield and again, we are pleased to report that it has been a successful project.The wildflowers are spectacular. One of the benefits of the increase in habitat is the increase in bird life. Buzzards are now thriving where as you did not see them only a few years ago. The wildflower project was advised by Kent Wildlife Trust and we are current members - worthwhile joining as the Trust does do much good work.
The Buzzards like to sit on the stones in the stone circle. The Barn Owls are often seen sweeping across the hayfields at each side of the runway and beyond. Airfields are a good use of open grassland as their existence means the grassland will be managed. This is a common feature of airfields in the UK. The airfield is just one of the activities as the land is also home to Stone Circle Livery, the UK's only organic livery yard and Woodchurch Carriage Driving for the Disabled that has over 50 members, volunteers and organisers. Societal benefit, rural business providing employment, conservation and protection of the environment are what makes Tiffenden Airfield a very special place with each activity leveraging off the other to provide a delicate balance that protects rural life and selflessly contributes to the the wider community it is part of. Tiffenden Airfield has no commercial interests and generates no revenues.
Conservation update for 2017/18 at Tiffenden Airfield
2017 has been an amazing year for wildlife at Tiffenden Airfield and the conservation programmes. This year has seen a further 3500 trees being planted in the form of new hedgerows many of them in the areas of the public footpaths so they can be enjoyed by all. Quickthorn, Hazel, Oak and Beech are just some of the varieties planted.
Airfields are important assets to Uk wildlife.
UK Barn Owl Population ReportUK Barn Owl Population Report 2017 shows a good increase in the South East. Airfields play an important role in the future of the Barn Owl population. You can download the report below.
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