Friends of Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in partnership with the Nidderdale Agricultural Society are promoting their annual Enterprising Farm Awards again this year and are seeking entries from farmers who are making special efforts to conserve the landscape of Nidderdale AONB.

 

The aim of the awards, now in their fourth year, is to recognise the contribution made by farmers to the very special landscape qualities of the area. Last year's winners were Chris and Christine Ryder of Scaife Hall Farm, Blubberhouses, who impressed the judges with their care of the landscape and animal husbandry combined with an enterprising on-farm bed and breakfast business.

 

Examples of eligible activities include improving wildlife habitats, restoring hay meadows, maintaining wetland and protecting ground-nesting birds; energy and water conservation schemes; and promoting an understanding of farming & the AONB or by hosting educational visits. The development of sustainable and innovative agricultural business also falls within the scope of the awards.

 

Douglas Adamson, Chair of the Friends commented "There is excellent work being done by the farming community in the AONB and we want to give due recognition to those farmers making special efforts to promote wildlife and to farm sustainably. I do encourage farmers to enter the awards so that these ideas can be shared and recognised."

 

Entry forms are available from Otley, Pateley Bridge, Skipton and Thirsk auction markets and local farm suppliers as well as the AONB office in Pateley Bridge.

 

Entries must be sent to the Nidderdale Show secretary Susan Monk, Victoria House, West End, Askrigg, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, Dl8 3HN by 3^rd August 2009.

 

The awards are sponsored by Scurrah Associates the forestry consultants, Thorpe Trees the leading tree nursery, and ATM the Fencing and Forestry Contractors.

 

The cash prizes totalling more than £500 will be awarded at the Nidderdale Show on 21^st September.