Fen Management Handbook - Scottish Natural Heritage

12. Fens from an Economic Perspective
Fens traditionally provided a wide range of products and services
of potential economic and social value. Increased mechanisation,
changing markets, crafts and traditions have all contributed to
changes in the way in which many of these products are valued.
The overall economic climate has also changed significantly since
fens were at their heyday as a central part of the rural economy.
This section explores the range of products which fens can
provide, and considers different approaches to realising the
value of these products and services to help fund sustainable
fen management. It also explores other economic aspects of fen
management, including grants and possible funding sources.
12.1 Direct provision of products
Approaches to marketing and selling fenland products include:
– negotiating a detailed agreement with a third-party commercial enterprise. This
should include details of the amount of product (e.g. thatching reed, biofuels) to
be harvested, access routes and any other restrictions necessary to protect the
conservation interest of the site.
– point-of-sale facilities and workshops for craft products as part of a wetland
reserve visitor centre, with a mutual commercial benefit.
12.1.1 Thatching reed
Thatching reed is in demand for maintenance and restoration of thatched roofs,
and construction of new thatched property. Revival in the Norfolk reed cutting
industry has also been stimulated by increased interest in vernacular traditions
and awareness of the sustainability of thatch. Common reed is the principal
material used for thatching, particularly since plant breeding regulations have
affected growth of specialist long-straw wheat crops. Home-based production of
common reed meets about 25% of UK demand, with the remainder met by imports.
Common reed is too stiff for bent work, for example on ridge lines, so there is also
demand for saw sedge. Reed is cut in winter, sedge is cut in summer.
Reeds cut and stacked
ready for sale as thatching
material on the Tay
Reedbeds, Scotland
(M.Milne).
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