Thursday, 28 October 2010

The Wildlife Trusts’ response to the Spending Review

Major impacts on vital natural environment work are likely - through the loss of a third of Defra’s budget1 – so The Wildlife Trusts urge the Government to ensure the remaining investment achieves the greatest benefits for the environment.




Today’s review could provide the opportunity to identify where Government investment could achieve greatest value for money. The Wildlife Trusts believe a healthy natural environment is the cornerstone of a healthy economy and a healthy society. Government, private and voluntary sectors and wider society all have a role in helping to create a healthy natural environment.



Paul Wilkinson, head of Living Landscape for The Wildlife Trusts, said: “We are pleased to hear the environmental stewardship schemes will remain open to all farmers in England and the proportion of the programme spent through the Higher Level Scheme (HLS) is to be increased.



“What funding is available needs to be targeted effectively. For example, Local Wildlife Sites could have a real role to play in the establishment of an ecologically coherent network. Across England, there are at least 40,000 Local Wildlife Sites. Often they cover 8-10percent of a county’s land area. Collectively they play a critical role by providing wildlife refuges and by acting as stepping stones to link and protect the suite of nationally and internationally designated sites.



“We must find ways to support the recovery of the natural environment in the long term, which are cost effective, sustainable and which recognise its true value. Investing in the recovery of the natural environment and the natural services it provides is a sound investment for the future.”

Save our forests

Stephanie Hilborne OBE, chief executive of The Wildlife Trusts, said:  “The Forestry Commission owns a substantial amount of land which is of high value for wildlife.   This represents a tremendous national asset. Transfer of such land should not be rushed and should not take place before a clear policy has been established.  This policy should ensure that those areas of high wildlife value – including Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Local Wildlife Sites – are secured in the long term.  If such sites are to be transferred, the best way to guarantee their future would be to give priority to nature conservation bodies and to ensure that sites are considered as part of a local ecological network.  We have a strong partnership with the Forestry Commission which we hope will continue, so we can make the most of our strong local presence.”

Thursday, 30 September 2010

Wanted - your views on nature | Natural Environment White Paper

Wanted - your views on nature Natural Environment White Paper
The Government has launched a Natural Environment White Paper discussion document to ask for your views on nature. Anyone can take part. Whether you enjoy a walk in the woods, wildlife photography, gardening, birdwatching, visiting nature reserves or enjoying nature with your children or grandchildren – the Government wants to hear your views on how nature in the UK should be protected and enhanced – for us all to enjoy.
The Government's online survey only takes a couple of minutes to complete. The deadline is Saturday 30th October. Please complete the survey and play your part in nature's recovery

Thursday, 19 August 2010

Alum, Alchemy and Ammonites - Natural Dyes Course

Saturday 4th September 10:00am – 4:00pm


‐ A one day course introducing you to the history of natural dyes and local dye plants.

‐ Try your hand at dying some wool to take home and use in your own dyed, woollen creations!

The course will be run at Margrove Heritage Centre, Margrove Park, near Guisborough, by local expert Tricia Hutchinson. Theay costs £10 per person, and booking is essential (places are limited).

This course is being run as part of the Alum, Alchemy and Ammonites project supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund.

For information and bookings contact Beth Andrews. Phone: 01287 636382 E‐mail: beth.geo@gmail.com

Wednesday, 28 April 2010

British Wildlife Photography Awards (BWPA)

The cut-off date for entries into the British Wildlife Photography Awards (BWPA) is 4 June and so this is a brief plea to remind everyone who might be interested in entering.
Entrants can submit entries on-line or via post. Chances to win a prestigious award, up to £20,000 worth of prizes and exposure in a nationwide touring exhibition and accompanying book. For more detailed information about the competition, including how to enter, a full description of categories, shooting tips, and terms & conditions, please visit the competition website: http://www.bwpawards.org/.