Matt and Dan were very impressed with the wide variety of wild flowers that although nationally scarce are in abundance on the chalk downland landscape surrounding the golf courses.
The management of the landscape by annually cutting the long grasses followed by collecting and removing the cuttings reduces the nutrients in the soil which promotes the growth of these rare species. The presence of the long grass alongside the managed shorter golf course grasses is an ideal environment for chalk downland species to thrive. The rare chalk landscape is the key to South Beds GC as an excellent golf course in all seasons.
The most species rich area was where the old pond had been located as much of the soil was removed when the pond was constructed. It’s a natural bowl and very welcoming habitat for chalk loving plants.
The whole golf course is soon to be designated a County Wildlife site in recognition of its importance as a Chalk Downland habitat which complements the SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) designation of the Galley and Warden hills.If you’d like to learn more or get involved in conserving the the golf course landscape and biodiversity of the golf courses contact greens@southbedsgc.co.uk