Database

Create structurally diverse riparian vegetation

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Water bodies	Living environment	Waterbody management

Based on climate models, precipitation is increasing in Estonia, making it necessary to establish and maintain a high quality drainage system and ditching to adapt to climate change. Drainage of wet grasslands ensures grassland productivity, but also creates water-related habitats.

Description of the action

Create a structurally diverse riparian vegetation (structure varying along the length of the vegetation). Mowed vegetation may be left on the ditch bank.

Why?

Ditch networks provide vital drainage functions and help create favourable soil conditions. Ditches support a wide range of animals, plants and insects. The best ditches are shallow-sloped and stepped-edged with natural vegetation. Ditch vegetation should be managed at 2-5 year intervals. Preference should be given to maintenance in the autumn and winter months.

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