Horse-Powered Land Management for Meadows, Woodland & Conservation Sites
With over 40 years of experience doing agricultural work and land management with horses, Oakwood Clydesdales can provide expert advice and hands-on services for managing wildflower meadows, whether that’s restoring neglected grasslands or working in ecologically sensitive sites, including Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). By using the power of the heavy horse, we can manage land with minimal soil compaction and zero emissions, working in a way that promotes biodiversity and protects sensitive habitats.
“We have worked with Oakwood Clydesdales for several years to establish and manage sensitive wildflower grassland areas. Their work has improved species richness and enhanced soil structure over time, supporting greater diversity across the meadows and helping create additional ecological niches within grassland habitats. The horses themselves have also been a great presence for local residents, volunteers, community groups and schools to help people see traditional land-management and understand why caring for grassland biodiversity matters.”
Owen Dodgson, Ecology Policy and Planning Manager, Richmond and Wandsworth Council
Where we've worked
We have delivered horse-powered conservation land management at some of the UK’s most prestigious sites, including Bushy Park (The Royal Parks), King George’s Park and Tooting Common (Wandsworth and Richmond Council), Ham House, Scotney Castle, Standen House and Morden Hall (National Trust), Springfield Park (Hackney Council), Odiham Common (Hart District Council), and many more across London and the South East.
Horse-powered meadow management
We harness the power of tradition and the strength of Clydesdales to deliver unparalleled low-impact land management and conservation services. By opting for traditional agricultural methods such as mowing, harrowing, rolling, disking, and seeding meadows, we minimize soil compaction compared to conventional machinery. This strategic approach not only ensures efficient land management but also promotes a flourishing ecosystem. The result is enhanced biodiversity, with diverse flora, thriving insect populations, and wildlife coexisting harmoniously.
Forestry and bracken rolling
In our forestry services, we embrace a powerful and eco-friendly approach by utilising Clydesdales for a range of tasks. Unlike conventional machinery, our horses tread lightly on the forest floor, minimizing soil compaction, damage and preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem. From bracken rolling to thoughtful forestry management, our equine partners enable us to navigate wooded terrain with precision, ensuring sustainable practices that benefit both the land and its inhabitants.
