Making Hay Whilst the Sun Shines

Magnificent Meadow Volunteers Attend Austrian Scythe Training Day at Winchester Stadium

On Sunday 11th August, ten dedicated volunteers from CPRE Hampshire’s Magnificent Meadow project participated in an Austrian Scythe Training Day at Winchester Stadium. The training was led by Rachel Remnant, a Winchester-based ecologist specialising in meadow management.

The comprehensive training session covered a range of essential topics, including:

• Safe use of the scythe
• Understanding scythe parts and setting up for various cutting situations
• Proper movement and technique
• Sharpening the scythe
• Peening using a jig
• Cutting different types of grassland
• Mowing, both individually and as part of a team

Of the ten volunteers, five were completely new to the experience. They were drawn to the project for various reasons, from a love of outdoor activities to an appreciation for the beauty of local meadows and a desire to learn more about them.

Rachel Remnant commented, “It was inspiring to see such enthusiasm and dedication from the volunteers. Scything is not only an effective way to manage grasslands but also a rewarding skill that connects us to traditional, sustainable land management practices.”

Will, a software engineer, purchased  a scythe four years ago and has been cutting part of his garden by hand to encourage wildlife. His neighbours always stop and talk to him about what he’s doing. Until now, he hasn’t had any training. He tells us what it was like to attend the Austrian Scythe Training Day;

In the afternoon, four more volunteers with scything experience joined the session and were put to work on a wildflower section within the grounds at Winchester Stadium. Working together, the volunteer team soon turned a rather daunting task into an easy one with synchronised movements to aid progress. Nikki, a recently retired social worker valued the experience of working in a team. She said “It surprised me how effective we were when working together on a section. It made such a difference working alongside people to spur you on.”

Magnificent Meadow Project Update

The Magnificent Meadow project has seen a surge in interest, with over 20 people signing up. Currently, 10 volunteers are trained and ready to assist. Given the weather-dependent nature of hay making, volunteers will be called upon over the next few weeks to help make hay by hand at Cowslip Meadow in Bar End. The immediate challenge is to assemble the box baler to bale the hay to transport it from the meadow to the local allotment.

Additionally, a Tree Hay Day is planned for Tuesday, August 27th, at Cowslip Meadow, providing ample opportunity for volunteers to put their training to the test.

You can also donate to support effective meadow management in Hampshire and help improve biodiversity whilst combating the climate crisis.

With special thanks to our Magnificent Meadow Funders:

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