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Restoring Grassland across Britain

Over 97% of the UK’s species-rich grassland has been lost in less than a century and it now covers just 1% of land.

Plantlife is working across England, Scotland and Wales to restore it.

Neutral meadow in Cornwall.
Hikers walking through long grass.

What are Grasslands?

A grassland is an area such as a meadow, lawn or hillside dominated by grass. In the UK flower-filled grasslands are a defining feature of the summer, and colourful meadows and pastures of our countryside are what most easily spring to mind.

But there are many more grassland types – from the machair plains of north-west Scotland to the rolling hills of south-west England.

A red coloured waxcap mushroom among grass

Why are grasslands in trouble?

Some of our grasslands are still rich with many different species of wild plants and fungi – but sadly these are among the most threatened habitats in Britain.

There are many reasons for their decline, including conversion into crops and more intensive management, tree planting, being lost to development and more.

Orchid meadow

How are we helping?

Plantlife helps farmers, landowners, and community groups take care of our grasslands for the future with practical advice. We also influence government policymaking to have an impact across biodiversity, planning, agriculture, and climate change.

We are working to ensure there is the right legislation, policy, and funding in place to help create, restore, and take care of our species-rich grasslands.

Our Work

A big win for grassland, but farmers need more
Cows in a field of grass by a gate in Greena Moor

A big win for grassland, but farmers need more

After a big government announcement, our experts have been delving into the details on the latest funding changes for farmers.

Sustainable farming needs government support, report reveals
Wildflowers growing in a meadow with cattle behind

Sustainable farming needs government support, report reveals

As governments continue to undervalue grasslands, Plantlife is calling on policymakers to help farmers make sustainable choices. 

Design your LNRS to Deliver for Plants and Fungi

Design your LNRS to Deliver for Plants and Fungi

Drive positive change for your local wildlife and local communities with Plantlife's LNRS Local Nature Recovery Strategy guidance.

Blogs

How to Start a Community Meadow?

How to Start a Community Meadow?

Want to start a community meadow, but not sure where to begin? Read our guide to creating a flower-filled haven for your local community.

How to Grow a Wildflower Meadow
Wildflower meadow landscape with a variety of species near Cardiff, Wales

How to Grow a Wildflower Meadow

Whether it’s your back garden, local park, community field or lawn, wildflower meadows are amazing spaces with so much to offer.

The Wildlife in our Meadows
Duke of Burgundy butterfly on cowslip.

The Wildlife in our Meadows

From bumblebees to birds and moths to mammals – meadows are micro-cities of wildlife. Here's what to spot in your wildflower meadow.