Problems associated with poor horse pasture management
can lead to the loss of biodiversity of vegetation. Often people are not
aware that this can be especially damaging to old meadows and pastures,
which are important for wildlife. Detrimental effects of poor horse
pasture management include the short-term seasonal effects of uncontrolled
weeds, bare muddy pasture, and ungrazed rank grass. Sometimes fields are
littered with dead trees, rubbish, machinery and vehicles. Broken or
poorly kept fencing and unsuitable stables and field shelters are
unsightly and dangerous.
It is vital not to overstock horse pasture. If the pony
is at grass throughout the year, one acre per pony is about the minimum,
and two acres is preferable on unimproved pasture. Horses are naturally
very selective grazers; they graze some areas very close to the ground and
leave other areas to grow lank and coarse. On a positive note, this
structurally varied horse pasture can provide a valuable habitat for a
range of invertebrates. Horse pastures maintain plant and wildlife
populations. Horses bring other benefits to the countryside such as
offering leisure opportunities to residents and visitors.
By following these simple guidelines horse owners can
conserve the rich wildlife of old meadows and at the same time bring
health benefits to their horses.
