RSPB Haweswater Conservation Project

We have been working in partnership with the RSPB to restore native alpine plants to RSPB Haweswater. See our progress throughout 2017. ...(more below)
August 31, 2018
AGS Editor
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Since March 2017, the Alpine Garden Society has been supporting an exciting conservation project at RSPB Haweswater in the Lake District.

The project is dedicated to restoring native alpines to the fells around Haweswater reservoir. We’re proud to be one of four partners involved, alongside the RSPB, United Utilities and Natural England.

A team of AGS members helped to plant 400 eared willow and juniper back in March to kick start the project.

Alpine mountain landscape with snow-capped peaks, rolling grassy hills, and rugged terrain, showcasing the natural beauty ideal for alpine gardening and plant cultivation.

Why is conservation needed?

Haweswater reservoir is surrounded by oak woodland, ancient juniper scrub, upland, bogs and cliffs that are home to alpine plants. These native plants have experienced a dramatic decline as a result of years of sheep and deer grazing.

As part of the AGS’ commitment to conserving alpine habitats, we have provided funding to restore these native plants. The restoration site is at Mardale Head – an area equal to 42 football pitches has been fenced off to protect the plants.

Healthy-plant-planting-activity-in-the-countryside on the hillside outdoors with two people planting trees for conservation or gardening practice.

Summer activity

Between July and September, the Haweswater project continued to make good progress. The fences are successfully protecting the plants from animal invasion.

The project also includes a new circular trail (completed in August) so visitors can fully explore the plants.

Seeds of globeflower, bitter vetch, water avens and wood cranesbill have been collected from the site and distributed to some of our members. It’s hoped that some of these will be ready to re-plant on site in the next year or two.

Large group hiking in the rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands, overlooking a stream, surrounded by moorland and mountains, for outdoor adventure and nature exploration.

December update

Enthusiastic teams from the Environment Agency and Natural England braved the cold at Mardale Head on Tuesday 5 December. They successfully planted over 1,000 willow cuttings.

We’ll keep you updated regularly with our progress. In the meantime, you can read more about RSPB Haweswater here and find out about the AGS’ conservation commitment here.

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