Vandals Strike At Hazeley Heath Conservation Site

A conservation project at one of North Hampshire’s largest segments of endangered lowland heath has been threatened by vandalism.

An electric fence forming part of a cattle enclosure at Hazeley Heath, situated near Hook, was deliberately broken open on Bank Holiday Monday, 31st  May, allowing the cows to escape from their grazing plot.

Members of Hart’s Countryside Team, assisted by volunteers, were quickly able to round up the escapees while avoiding any injuries or known damage.  

Grazing trial ranger Lynda Bourchier expressed her concern over the incident.

“If the cattle are released from the grazing plot the consequences could potentially be very serious,” she said.

“There is a risk they may get on to the fast B3011 road and cause serious human injury, as well as potentially fatal harm to themselves. That is why this incident is being treated extremely seriously by the team and has been reported to the police as criminal damage. “

Hazeley Heath has been undergoing grazing trials since mid-May this year, to establish whether the area can sustain cattle while preserving and benefitting its biodiversity and environmental significance. The heath has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England.

The decision to host cattle on Hazeley Heath came about in 2007 as part of a management plan for the site, taking into account the views of the local public through consultation. The trial is scheduled to last for five years.    

Hart’s Countryside Service has made an appeal to all users of the heath to be vigilant for anyone vandalising the electric fencing. If you see anything suspicious please call the ranger service immediately on 01252 623443 or alternatively call Hampshire Police directly.