Eco-grazing

At a time when biodiversity is in sharp decline in France and around the world, it is imperative to take into account the environmental performance of green space maintenance activities. Indeed, some practices are more favorable to the preservation of biodiversity than others. These include the practice of differentiated or "reasoned" management, which involves adapting grass management methods (tools, height, period) to suit the maintenance objectives of each plot. Another is the non-use of inputs, particularly plant protection products. Lastly, ecopasturing initiatives to replace mowing have been on the increase for several years now, as it is recognized as being less noisy and less polluting.
Eco-grazing on airfields is regulated because of safety constraints. The practice is therefore rather marginal, but can be observed on a few airfields on specific plots.

CHALLENGES FOR BIODIVERSITY
Eco-grazing may not have the desired effect on biodiversity, depending on how it is implemented.The level of stocking (number of animals per hectare) influences the richness and diversity of flora on the plot.Excessive stocking can have a negative effect on biodiversity. Indeed, trampling by the animals can encourage the growth of fast-growing stolon-forming and aggressive plants. What's more, if the animals remain on a small plot for too long, the pasture becomes exhausted, unable to complete its life cycle.  
In addition, urine and faeces deposits fertilize the soil abundantly. As the soil becomes richer in nutrients, floristic diversity tends to decrease.

TO REMEMBER

• Carefully determine the airport's eco-grazing sites and the animal species best suited to them.
• Define the maximum grazing load to limit soil pressure and fertilization.
• Encourage rotational grazing by moving animals around several plots.