Abstract: Biodiversity management on equine premises in Ireland by Aoife Green

Summarised by Katie Dubarry

Biodiversity loss is a global concern, with numerous species facing the threat of extinction. The intensification of land use has been a significant driver of this decline. While extensive research has focused on the impact of agriculture on biodiversity, the equine industry has received limited attention in this regard despite using 12.5% of Irish agricultural land. This study conducted by Aoife Green sheds light on the positive biodiversity management practices within the Irish equine industry. Let's explore Aoife’s key findings that highlight the industry's contribution to biodiversity conservation and enhancement.

The study aimed to assess the effect of the equine industry on farmland biodiversity in Ireland. To evaluate biodiversity management practices, a survey was conducted using the Biodiversity Management Practice Index (BMPI). The BMPI focuses on field size & distribution, hedges, watercourses, and field margins. The survey targeted thoroughbred, sport horse, Connemara, draught, Kerry bog pony, and equestrian centres. A total of 202 responses were collected and analysed. In addition, field visits were carried out and BMPI measured at 9 sites.

Key Findings:

1. Impact on Biodiversity:

The study showed that the equine industry helps support biodiversity, with 73.6% of premises scoring above 50% on the BMPI. Thoroughbred premises stood out, with over 78.1% achieving a BMPI score exceeding 50%. These results indicate that a significant proportion of equine premises in Ireland are actively implementing practices that support and enhance biodiversity.

2. Field Size and Heterogeneous Landscape:

53.4% of participating premises had an average field size of less than 5 hectares. This smaller field size contributes to a more heterogeneous landscape with diverse boundaries, providing an extensive range of habitats and facilitating the movement of species. This characteristic supports the presence of migratory species and further enhances biodiversity conservation efforts.

3. Weed and Soil Management:

Weed control practices were widespread among the surveyed premises, with 93.1% implementing some form of weed control. Pulling weeds by hand was the most common method, being employed by 23.5% of premises, although 21.4% carried out blanket spraying. Weed pulling is beneficial for biodiversity as it reduces the spread of herbicides that can be dangerous to wildlife. 82% of premises used fertilizers, with organic fertilizers being the most frequently applied (53.5%). Nearly half of the respondents (49.7%) conducted soil analysis tests and used the results to guide fertilization. This approach prevents the overuse of fertilizers and minimizes potential damage to the surrounding wildlife.

4. Hedges & Watercourses

Maintaining hedges of sufficient height (1.5m) and retaining hedgerow tress is valuable for many wildlife and plant species. In this study, 57.1% of survey responses had hedges on their premises, and 78.3% stated their hedges also contain trees. Creating buffer strips around watercourses is another measure in the BMPI. These buffer strips prevent pollutants entering the water which can damage biodiversity. They also protect banks from damage (such as from poaching by large farm animals), maintaining the overall stability of the watercourse. Overall, 67.9% of premises had a watercourse on their land, and 35.3% maintained a fenced margin to protect the area.

Conclusions

The study highlights the impact of the Irish equine industry on biodiversity management. With high BMPI scores, the prevalence of smaller field sizes, manual weed control practices, and responsible fertilizer management, some equine premises actively contribute to biodiversity conservation and enhancement. However, there are still areas for improvement, with around 43% of premises using chemical weed control, and just over a third maintaining suitable watercourse fences.

The findings underline the potential for sustainable agricultural practices within the equine industry. The examples of positive practices could be used to encourage improvement across the equine industry, as well as other land-based sectors.