In any farm and its surroundings, it is worth observing species diversity and its dynamics. Changes in the natural environment, especially relating to the diversity of plants and wildlife, are important information for determining the correctness of management in an area.
It is particularly important to observe changes in the abundance of rare or legally protected species. These are usually species with low tolerance to environmental change and are the first to disappear in an agricultural environment. If, despite measures to maintain biodiversity, a reduction in the abundance of these species is observed, an analysis of the factors that have changed should be carried out and corrective measures introduced, such as the creation of additional habitats for valuable species.
Regular official monitoring is carried out on meadows included in the agri-environmental programme within the framework of package 4 – valuable habitats and endangered bird species in Natura 2000 areas, as well as package 5 – valuable habitats outside Natura 2000 areas. Experiments on these areas are carried out every five years and, on the basis of an analysis of previous documentation, the optimum management method (hay, hay and pasture or grazing) and the timing and frequency of the treatments are selected.