• Scheme helps to protect landscapes
• More funding is available for farmers
• Invitation open for grant applications
A project to restore an ancient woodland in Essex boosting biodiversity and conserving the character of the local environment.
Some £22,636 has been awarded under the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme for ancient woodland restoration to the Rivers Hall Farm Estate at Boxted, near Colchester. The funding will cover the second and third years of the project.
Ancient woodlands are some of the UK’s richest and most diverse habitats, encompassing soils, fungi, plants, and animals.
But many ancient woodlands are in decline due to a historic lack of appropriate management or neglect.
Invasive species
At Rivers Hall, rhododendron and bamboo were introduced at one time as game shooting cover. Both species had become invasive and dominated the ancient woodland understorey.
As part of the project, the first year will see the invasive species physically removed to create space and light to encourage natural tree regeneration. In year two, 1,000 young native trees and shrubs will be planted.
Children from the local primary school, which already uses the farm and woods for its forest school classes, will help plant the new trees.
The Farming in Protected Landscapes programme is funded by Defra and managed locally by the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty team, which welcomed the participation of local school children in the project.
Next generation
Nigel Chapman, chairman of the Farming in Protected Landscapes decision-making panel, said: “It is vital that the next generation is closely involved in this restorative work today and become the proud guardians of these incredibly special places in the future.”
For the 2022-23 financial year, the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme supported the farming community with grants totalling £114,245 for projects in the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Stour Valley.
How to apply
Due to its success, the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme has been extended until March 2025, and the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty team is inviting applications from farmers.
Projects support nature recovery, mitigate the impacts of climate change, provide opportunities for people to discover, enjoy and understand the landscape and cultural heritage, or support nature-friendly, sustainable farm businesses.
Additional funding amounting to £183,463 is available for 2023/24.
For more details or to discuss a potential project, contact Farming in Protected Landscapes officer
Alex Dinsdale on 01502 674630 or email AONBFarmGrants@suffolk.gov.uk.
