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The hedge and grass-cutting sector is facing significant obstacles due to regulations and unpredictable wet weather conditions. Contractors are struggling with strict rules, like the ban on hedgecutting from March to August, which limits their working time to protect nesting birds. Additionally, continuous autumn rain is making it challenging for contractors to operate on waterlogged farmlands without causing damage.
In areas like Northamptonshire and Cambridgeshire, local contractors are finding it hard to keep up with demand as larger firms secure contracts with local authorities. The regulatory environment adds pressure, with agri-environmental schemes restricting when and where contractors can work. Changing weather patterns, with milder winters and fewer frosts, are also creating operational difficulties.
Contractors like Robert Rutt and Peter Wright are advocating for more flexibility in regulations, suggesting an earlier start to hedgecutting in mid-August due to shifting seasons and nesting patterns. They believe that a more adaptable approach is needed to balance environmental protection and industry needs. Without changes, the future of independent contractors in the sector looks uncertain, especially considering rising equipment costs and a lack of new entrants.
Mr. Rutt expressed uncertainty about the future of hedgecutting, noting that hedges are not trimmed annually on the farms he oversees. Mr. Wright, from MJ Wright and Son near Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, described the wet weather in recent Septembers as a “nightmare” for their work. He believes that starting hedgecutting in mid-August would be more appropriate given the changing nesting seasons and weather conditions.
Defra extended the no-cutting period to August to protect birds like the cirl bunting, linnet, and yellowhammer, which nest in hedgerows throughout the month. Without adaptation to regulations and policies, the future of the hedge and grass-cutting industry remains uncertain for contractors like Mr. Rutt and Mr. Wright.
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Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.
