Friston Forest Grazing Project

The Friston Forest Grazing Project is a pioneering approach to land management whereby grazing animals and natural processes will determine how the site will evolve.

It started in 2008 with the introduction of a small herd of cattle to the northern end of Friston Forest. Like the rest of the forest, this area is woodland criss-crossed by a network of forest tracks and patches of grassland. It also adjoins Lullington Heath National Nature Reserve, one of the most important wildlife sites in the country.

The grazing area sits within an important landscape of inter-connected woodland, flower-rich grassland plus the Cuckmere River, its estuary and the chalk cliffs at Seven Sisters. It is a striking landscape in the heart of the South Downs National Park.

The project covers 200 acres and is run by the Sussex Wildlife Trust on behalf of the Forestry Commission, Natural England, South East Water and the South Downs Joint Committee.

Friston Forest Grazing Project leaflet Click Here to Download (pdf 400kb)

For more information on visiting Fristion Forest, please visit the Forestry Commission website.

Friston Forest Grazing Project - British White cattle

Cattle at Friston Forest / Ivor Chuter LRPS

The cattle are of a breed known as British White and are ideally suited to the grazing project because they actively seek out brambles, leaves and twigs, and even the roots of some plants. They have thrived on this diet.

 

beech tree banner / Ivor Chuter LRPS

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