Final report published by Fergal Monaghan and Dr. Caroline sullivan
Publication of the Hen Harrier Project EIP (2017–2023) Final Report
Hen Harrier Project 2017-2023 | Picture shows a pair of Hen Harrier Chicks
“The Hen Harrier Project EIP has demonstrated that when farmers are properly supported and incentivised, they can deliver meaningful conservation outcomes. By placing farmers at the centre of the programme and rewarding them for measurable improvements, we have developed a model that benefits both nature and rural communities. We hope that the lessons from this initiative will shape future policies and funding mechanisms for biodiversity and land management.” – Fergal Monaghan, Project Manager of the Hen Harrier Project Ltd
“This programme has been transformative, not just for the Hen Harrier but for the wider landscape. The combination of scientific monitoring, farmer engagement, and financial incentives has proven to be a powerful tool for conservation. We are grateful to all participating farmers, advisors, and stakeholders who made this project a success. The findings from this final report offer a pathway forward for balancing agricultural production with environmental sustainability.” added Dr. Caroline Sullivan, Deputy Project Manager and Ecology Specialist
- Over 46,000 hectares of land managed to enhance biodiversity.
- More than 1,600 farmers participated in the programme, demonstrating strong engagement and the potential scalability of the Results Based Approach.
- Over 4,000 conservation actions implemented, including fencing, water infrastructure, and habitat improvements.
- A measurable increase in habitat quality, benefiting not just Hen Harriers but a wide range of wildlife.
The Hen Harrier Project: A Success Story for Farmers and Conservation
Over the past six years, the Hen Harrier Project has worked with over 1,600 farmers to create a unique, results-based agri-environment scheme, proving that conservation and farming can go hand in hand. Now, with the publication of its final report, we look back on the success of this groundbreaking programme.
A Win-Win for Farmers and Biodiversity
Funded under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) with a budget of €25 million, the Hen Harrier Project delivered direct financial benefits to farmers while improving habitats for this iconic bird of prey. More than €20 million was paid out to farmers for habitat improvements and conservation actions, with an additional €3.5 million allocated for infrastructure, research, and administration.
By rewarding farmers based on the quality of their land management, rather than fixed measures, the programme encouraged real, measurable improvements.
Dr. Caroline Sullivan, Deputy Project Manager, echoed this sentiment:
“We’ve seen real improvements in habitat quality, not just for the Hen Harrier but for a range of wildlife. The combination of scientific monitoring and farmer engagement has proven to be a powerful tool for conservation. We are incredibly grateful to all the farmers and advisors who helped make this a success.”
The results speak for themselves:
Over 46,000 hectares of land were actively managed for conservation.
More than 1,600 farmers participated across six Special Protection Areas (SPAs).
Over 4,000 conservation actions were carried out, from fencing and water infrastructure to habitat restoration.
Farmers received direct financial support while making a meaningful impact on biodiversity.
What Farmers Say
One of the most important aspects of this programme was its collaborative approach. Farmers were actively involved in shaping the scheme, ensuring that their practical knowledge and expertise were valued.
Denis Hayes, a farmer from the Stacks Mountains SPA, described his experience:
“Being part of the Hen Harrier Project has shown that farming and conservation can work together. The programme gave us the tools and financial support to improve our land while ensuring the Hen Harrier had a better habitat. It was great to see that our efforts made a real difference, and the support we received was invaluable. This project proves that when farmers are included in the conversation, real progress can be made.”
Insights from the Project Team
Fergal Monaghan, Project Manager of the Hen Harrier Project Ltd, highlighted the impact of this approach:
“This initiative has shown that farmers are key to successful conservation. By supporting them with financial incentives and practical guidance, we’ve demonstrated that biodiversity and farming can complement each other. The lessons from this project can shape future agri-environment schemes across Europe.”
Looking Ahead
With the Hen Harrier Project EIP (2017–2023) now completed, the insights gained from this initiative will help shape future environmental and agricultural policies. This programme has proven that by working together, farmers and conservationists can create lasting benefits for both rural communities and biodiversity.
