30 October 2015
A grant scheme to encourage improvements to Jersey's environment will open for new applications on Monday 2 November 2015.
The States-funded Countryside Enhancement Scheme was introduced in 2006, and has supported a wide range of projects which meet the following criteria:
- Enhance, conserve and protect Jersey’s natural environment on a local scale.
- Implement island-wide strategic environmental projects that either enhance biodiversity or make beneficial additions to the present island-wide access infrastructure.
- Helps Jersey deliver on its commitments to international multilateral environment agreements and local environmental objectives.
Eligible projects include:
- Hedgerow and woodland creation and maintenance
- Pond and wetland creation and maintenance
- Heathland creation and maintenance
- Crops for the benefit of wildlife
- Environmental improvements for the benefit wildlife and/or the landscape
- Projects which support Biodiversity Action Plans
- Restoration of historic features
- Improvements to the farmed environment
- Farm biodiversity audits
- Interpretation and education materials
- Enhancements to the access rural access infrastructure
Projects that improve the quality of the Island’s water resources will be given priority in 2016.
The Rural Economy Manager for the Department of the Environment, John Jackson, said “The Countryside Enhancement Scheme is one of a number of ways the States demonstrates its commitment to the importance of the natural and farmed environment and to the rural industries which have created and manage the Island’s diverse countryside.
“The CES provides financial support for environmental improvement projects which seek to help, support and protect the Island's unique natural resources, wildlife, habitats and landscapes.”
Application forms are available from Howard Davis Farm or online at www.gov.je. The deadline for applications is Friday 15 January.
gov.je