|
Project
origins
Brimpts Farm is set in the heart of the Dartmoor National
Park and contains many habitats of high biodiversity value. In 2002
the farm was given an award under the Duke of Cornwall's Habitat
Award Scheme in recognition of their efforts to improve biodiversity
on the farm. This Duchy of Cornwall upland beef farm is also managed
partly as a visitor and activity centre. Andy Bradford, the tenant
farmer, and staff from the Dartmoor Education Centre initiated and
created a biodiversity trail to inform and educate visitors to the
farm. The Dartmoor biodiversity project, Action for Wildlife has
provided ongoing funding and support.
Action
for biodiversity
The biodiversity trail highlights the importance of Dartmoor's biodiversity
and explains how good land management contributes to this. The trail
is open to all, local people and visitors alike. As well as informal
visits, the trail can be used for formal educational purposes, such
as by local schools. By increasing understanding and knowledge,
the trail will help to encourage the sympathetic use of Dartmoor's
rich and varied natural environment.
Relationships
to sustainable development
Biodiversity and high quality environment are linked to the economy
and traditional land management practices on the traditional Dartmoor
hill farm. As one of a number of farm diversification initiatives,
the trail not only raises awareness of biodiversity but also attracts
visitors to the enterprises on the farm. A small charge for the
cost of the biodiversity trail leaflet covers costs of reprinting
and maintenance. Brimpts Farm is truly diverse and sustainable.
In recognition of this, Andy won the 'John Neason Award for Farm
Diversification' at the Devon County Show in 2002. Brimpts Farm
has also been recognised as an 'Investor in People'.
|
