NRN PARTNER: Barmeal Farm

BARMEAL FARM

Location:
Monreith, Dumfries & Galloway
Area Committed:
150 acres

Barmeal Farm lies just inland from the coast on the picturesque Machars peninsula in Galloway. Situated among low, gently rolling hill, the dry-stone dykes that cross the site bear testament to a long pastoral history. The landholding already provides a habitat mosaicof species-rich grasslands, small water bodies, gorse-dominated scrub, and maturing woodland. These features are interspersed with numerous rocky outcrops and crags that are a key characteristic of this part of the Machars.

Key rewilding commitments:

  • MORE NATIVE WOODLAND: Plant native tree species in the form of new woodlands, copses and riparian corridors – to increase tree species diversity and improve wildlife connectivity.
  • MORE SPACE FOR WATER: Explore means of retaining more standing water on the land – by re-establishing ponds, installing new scrapes and creating leaky dams.
  • RETURN MISSING SPECIES: Include poorly represented and missing species in woodland enrichment initiatives, such as aspen, wych elm, holly, wild apple and willow, as well as climbing plants such as ivy and honeysuckle.
  • CONNECT WITH COMMUNITY: Use the landholding and farm building to create opportunities for people to connect with nature, including guided community walks, volunteering, foraging and as a means of engaging local NGOs.