CAFRE to host dry stone walling courses in 2022

December 6, 2021

The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) will be hosting dry stone walling training events from January to March 2022 at CAFRE’s Glenwherry Hill Farm Centre. The practical training courses will be an Introduction to single skinned Dry Stone Walling for field boundary repairs and maintenance.

Dry stone walls are an important part of the landscape which are durable and attractive field boundary features, which will last for many lifetimes if properly maintained. Dry stone walls also provide excellent shelter and homes for a wide range of small mammals, birds and insects. Excellent examples can be found in the Glens of Antrim and Mourne Mountains.

Many dry stone walls have been well maintained and remain effective stock proof barriers; others are in need of rebuilding. The course includes site preparation, stone selection and wall building as well as health and safety, and types and styles of dry stone walls.

CAFRE’s Biodiversity Technologist, Nicola Warden explains that the course will give participants the skills and knowledge to repair and maintain a single skinned dry stone wall to be stock-proof, maintain biosecurity with neighbouring farms and comply with Agri-environment Scheme agreements. Each course will take place for one day and will include a short theory session followed by hands on practical.

Nicola comments that the course is open to all farmers, land managers or enthusiasts. To get more information including the dates of each course and importantly to book your place please visit here.