Farming for Nature is delighted to welcome Equine Farmer, Mariann Klay from Co. Kildare to our ambassador network.
Mariann runs a stud farm in Swordlestown Little, County Kildare. A nature lover her entire life, Mariann places biodiversity and wildlife at the centre of every decision relating to the land. She purchased the farm with her husband in 1998 and they have built a successful stud farm where they breed thoroughbred horses. Highlights include.
- The stocking density is never too high and the land is aerated every year to minimise soil compaction.
- Thick and mature hedgerows line every field and corridor on the farm.
- A pond was dug on the farm which attracts an abundance of insects and birds.
- An area of wetland and steam on the land provides further water habitat.
- Plans for another pond, tree planting and a riparian zone.
Mariann’s says about the hedgerows on their farm ‘The best decision we took when developing the farm, was leaving the ancient mature hedges in place and work around them when fencing the original 11 divisions. I believe that although very old and ivy-clad (and prone to fall with wind and rain) they are the most important feature for nature on this farm. They are an important wildlife corridor and provide food and shelter all year round”.
Register for Mariann’s live Q&A 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦 on May 7th here
Book a place on Mariann’s farm walk on May 31 here
Watch this video about how Mariann farms with nature on her stud farm.
