Conservation grazing

Close up photo of a highland cow eating a blade of grass, mainly with the cow's nose in focus and blade of grass inside mouth.

Highland cow grazing - Terry Whittaker/2020 Vision

Support our work (https://www.essexwt.org.uk/get-involved/membership)

Days out (https://www.essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/plan-day-out-essex-wildlife-trust)

Dogs on nature reserves (https://www.essexwt.org.uk/dogs-nature-reserves)

Make a donation (https://www.essexwt.org.uk/donate)

Amazing grazing

Essex Wildlife Trust manages some of our county’s most important grassland habitats ranging from expansive grazing marshes and floodplain grasslands through to precious pockets of acid grassland and orchid-filled species-rich meadows.

Want to find out more about conservation grazing? Take a look at our grazing hub below to find out more.

Close up photo of two sheep grazing grass with their heads down.

Why do we graze our nature reserves?

Find out why conservation grazing is a great way to boost biodiversity on our reserves.

Sheep flock on a nature reserve with a staff member in the distance

Meet our team

Our grazing livestock are chosen especially to benefit wildlife. Read more about our animals here.

Close up shot of a herd of cows grazing on a nature reserve.

No-fence grazing at Langdon

How a grazing project is boosting biodiversity in south Essex.

Dogs on nature reserves

A position statement from Essex Wildlife Trust about dogs on nature reserves.

Two belted galloway cows laying down in a wild grassland, hidden behind the tall grasses

Virtual fence grazing technology

Our policy on virtual fence grazing technology.

Grasslands are vital for wildlife, and conservation grazing is one of the most effective ways to keep them thriving. We need your help to cover the core costs of managing our traditional breed cattle and sheep across Essex’s key grassland reserves. Your support will ensure these important habitats remain healthy, diverse, and rich with life for years to come.

Donate now