Grip Management

In the past, many areas of wet moorland were drained with open grips to improve the grazing capacity. Government grants were given for efficient drainage and, while this achieved the perceived prime purpose, it also led to a significant reduction in active blanket bog, which is so important for nature conservation and for providing the insects on which many birds feed. Grouse chicks, for example, in the critical first few weeks of their life, must have insects. Another disadvantage has been a more rapid drainage of surface water, which can cause erosion of grips and flooding of rivers, as well as choking with silt.

In recent years the reduction in sheep numbers and greater emphasis on habitat conservation has called into question the wisdom of extensive gripping, and many owners are now putting into practice programmes of grip blocking in strategic places to recreate boggy areas. Grip maintenance in other areas is vital also to preserve dry heath and to prevent erosion. In summary, the need for a balance is now accepted, and on the best-managed moors, owners are striving to achieve it.