Database

Preserve old stone walls

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Open landscape	Living environment, Landscape, Cultural	Stone wall maintenance and restoration

In order to maintain biodiversity and ensure ecological connectivity in grasslands, structural elements of habitats (e.g. old trees, old trees, old growth trees, dead trees and snags, flatwood, hardwood, hollow trees, scorch marks, shrub species and species of rare trees, structures and other heritage features) are maintained, taking into account their potential impact on grassland health, ecosystem condition and human safety.

Description of the action

Preserve old stone walls. When restoring stone walls, it is recommended to source stones locally. Maintenance and restoration should be carried out in spring or summer, outside of hibernation periods. When restoring, place stones as flat as possible relative to the ground and orient their center of gravity toward the middle of the wall. Shift each row of stones slightly toward the center axis so that the wall gradually narrows as it rises. Avoid covering gaps between stones.

Why?

Old stone walls serve as corridors in agricultural landscapes, providing habitats and growing conditions for many species. When mosses start growing between stones, they create a shallow and nutrient-poor substrate that can support flowers. The south-facing sides of stone walls provide warm and sunny spots for heat-loving insects and reptiles. Cavities offer habitats for reptiles and amphibians.