Hebden Bridge Web

High Hirst Woodmeadow meets criteria to be an SSSI

Monday, 12 February 2024

The November 2023 fungi survey results have been officially released in High Hirst Woodmeadow's latest grassland fungi report, written by local National Trust grassland fungi expert, Steve Hindle. Exciting findings include the fact that the Woodmeadow now fulfils the criteria for SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) status, attributed to the abundance of the Clavariaceae family of grassland fungi thriving on-site.

Additionally, the survey identified one instance of a globally rare fungi, from the Stinking Fanvault family (Hodophilus subfoetens), further contributing to the site's ecological significance.

Building upon findings from the previous year, when, two rare fungi species classified as near threatened on the UK Red Data list were uncovered, as well as four globally threatened species, classed as vulnerable on the IUCN classification scale, the new report once again underscores the importance of continuing conservation efforts at High Hirst Woodmeadow.

Hindle elaborates: "For context, other species assessed as globally 'Vulnerable' include Snow Leopard, Hippopotamus, Giant Panda and Polar Bear. These sites become increasingly important as other grasslands lose diversity through land use change and the effects of climate change. Sympathetic management going forwards is encouraged and planned."

• For more information about this survey email a message to Hebden Royd Town Council Climate Emergency and Biodiversity Coordinator. Alternatively, contact Hebden Royd Town Council by email or telephone 01422 842181.
• For full details of the High Hirst location, refer to this map of the local area provided in the link below.
• See report