Countdown 2010 Action Fund – Year Two
30 January 2008, Peterborough, UK Not only the cirl bunting, the natterjack toad or the dingy skipper butterfly have profited from projects funded through the Countdown 2010 Action Fund. 34 projects run by Voluntary Conservation Organisations are protecting England’s best sites, taking action for endangered habitats and threatened species, but also engaging people, collecting data and influencing policy. Highlights include:
- For protecting the best sites in Cumbria and Staffordshire, an extra 33 sites have been identified and designated County Wildlife sites. In Oxfordshire, 14 target areas have been identified as priority areas for conservation work through stewardship options. An impressive amount of 600 ha of priority habitat in the Mendip hills has been given restoration advice.
- Successful habitat management by Countdown 2010 projects shows its results in the restoration and recreation of 100 ha of heathland, 450 ha of grassland, 125 km of hedgerow and 500 ha of woodland.
- Action for threatened species has led to some astonishing numbers. 1029 male black grouse in northern England were counted attending leks in 2006, exceeding the UK Bap target for this species. In Devon, 4 rare fanshells have been found in the Salcombe Estuary and awareness of their presence has been raised among the local boat owning community.
- Volunteers are crucial for the successful project implementation. Adding up the time that had been dedicated by volunteers in the last year more than 80 000 days were used to undertake surveys, check livestock, learn new skills and work on the ground to maintain important areas for biodiversity. Schools play an important role in this process by actively engaging in a range of environmental projects such as habitat creation and practical events.
- BARS, the Biodiversity Action Reporting System, that all 34 Countdown 2010 projects are now reporting on, prove to be effective by recording 2,200 basking shark sightings and 4,500 stag beetle sightings.
- Several Countdown 2010 projects are aimed at influencing policy and decision making in relation to the forthcoming Marine Bill through representation at Government meetings. A clear achievement id the ecological network approach that is developed with several local authorities in Suffolk and Sussex to influence county and district strategies.
The projects running from 2006-2008 contribute directly to Biodiversity Action Plan and England Biodiversity Strategy objectives. Project aims range from direct enhancement of biodiversity, engaging people in conservation work, and raising awareness among key stakeholders, schools, community groups and the general public.
