HNV-Link Project: Flood Meadows of Angers – High Nature Value Farming in France

High Nature Value (HNV) farming in the Basses vallées angevines, Angers, France, preserves biodiversity through traditional flood meadow management since the Middle Ages. Extensive grazing, mowing, and conservation practices support species like Black-tailed Godwit, Snake’s head fritillary, and Corncrake. Natura 2000 and Agri-Environment Schemes (AES) promote reduced fertilizers, lower livestock density, and wildlife-friendly mowing. Local farmers formed the 2001 Angers Valleys Livestock Farmers Association, with 11 farmers and 6 sales points promoting grass/hay-fed livestock. Successes include protected status and high biodiversity; challenges include subsidy dependence, aging infrastructure, and youth recruitment. Research on breeding birds involves local experts and BirdLife International’s LPO. Part of the EU-funded HNV-Link project (Horizon 2020), this open educational resource is licensed CC BY-NC-SA.