In addition to the major phases of walling, walls have needed repair and rebuilding through the centuries, which kept a certain level of skill alive in the farming community. The amount of activity would have closely reflected the cycles of agricultural prosperity and decline, with walls falling into disrepair in times of farming depression. At certain times, such as during the Enclosure Era, gangs of wallers were required to carry out the volume of work required.
Through much of the 20th century the number of full-time craftsmen wallers was low, but there has been an upsurge of interest since the 1970s. In addition to a large number of volunteers becoming skilled in walling, there are now a good number of full-time professional wallers operating through most of the walling areas of Britain. This increase has been due to many factors, of which the most important is the value now placed on the maintenance of the traditional British farming landscape. Increased leisure time and tourism, which brings more people into the countryside, together with changing values in farming have meant that the traditional features of the countryside, walls included, are now given a value far above their straight economic importance. Funding through National Parks, country parks, local authorities and other bodies, as well as through employment schemes has meant money invested in the craft of walling.
The Dry Stone Walling Association is very active in promoting the craft of dry stone walling, through working with professionals, volunteers and the stone industry. Each year they publish a list of certificated wallers/dykers and sources of stone, which lists all professional members who hold DSWA craft skills certification, plus corporate members who supply stone or walling services. The Association has 19 local groups, who organise competitions, practice meets and other activities. For more information on the DSWA.
