17 June 2010
The annual Countryside Renewal Scheme awards presentation is being held this Friday (18 June 2010) at Samares Manor. The awards are presented to recognise the commitment of grant recipients, who are judged each year on their achievements.
An independent judging panel viewed 6 short listed projects. Judges were the Chief Conservation Officer of Durrell, Professor John Fa, the CEO of the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society, James Godfrey, Hugh Forshaw of the Société Jersiaise Zoology section and the States' Senior Countryside Officer, Tim Liddiard.
The 2009 award winner is Aaron Le Couteur of CS Conservation in conjunction with The National Trust for Jersey in recognition of his heathland management and restoration work.
The project has seen a flock of Manx Loaghtan sheep introduced to the coastal heathland landscape, with a view to restoring the habitat by controlling the scrub and bracken.
Aaron says "We are delighted to have won this much coveted environmental award. It means a lot to both us and the National Trust for Jersey to be recognised in this way, for a project that simply would not be possible without the support of the Countryside Renewal Scheme."
The awards will be presented by the Assistant Minister for Planning and Environment, Deputy Rob Duhamel, who says “I am delighted to present these awards which demonstrate how much dedication there is to conserving and enhancing what makes Jersey so special.
"The awards show islanders valuing and recognising the importance of the landscape and environment of Jersey with real commitment from individuals, farmers and landowners to protecting Jersey’s unique character."
A plaque of Distinction also goes to St Georges Preparatory School for their woodland management project, which preserves a landscape containing a number of unusual tree species which is a haven for wildlife.
The toad trophy 'Al-gae’ and Certificates of Distinction and Merit are awarded to the successful 2009 short listed finalists on the morning of the event.
If you would like to attend the presentation please contact Donna de Gruchy on +44 (0) 1534 441677 or via email.
Email Donna de Gruchy
gov.je