Friends of the Nidderdale AONB

Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is recognised nationally as being very special countryside that needs to be protected for future generations.  It is essential that the fantastic views, wild open moorland, picturesque villages, rare wildlife and historical features are not spoilt, and you can help. 
 
By becoming a "Friend of Nidderdale AONB" you are pledging your support to the continued protection of this very special area and you will have the opportunity to make an active contribution to its conservation.
 
Why do we need Friends?
  • Our landscape is internationally important
  • We have to ensure it's just as good for the next generation
  • AONB's do not have the resources of National Parks
  • Friends will be individuals whose actions and decisions can help the conservation of the AONB
  • All who live in the AONB or visit it have a responsibility for its care. Joining the Friends is good for the AONB and good for you

What has Friends Achieved?

Since the launch of Friends in 2005 the organisation has:

  • a membership in excess of 500
  • achieved Charitable Status which allows access to further funding for conservation work
  • established in 2006 a Farming Award for conservation in conjunction with the Nidderdale Agricultural Society. It was won in 2007 by Mark Exelby of Hutts Farm, Grewelthorpe, in 2008 by Chris Ryder of Scaife Hall Farm, Blubberhouses and in 2009 by Ian Walker & Ann Challis of Studfold Farm, Upper Nidderdale.
  • established in 2009 a Conservation Award in conjunction with the Ripley Show committee. It was won in 2009 by Rachel Benson of Old Slenningford Farm, North Stainley.
  • provided a varied and well supported programme of events solely for Friends (see our latest newsletter for details of this year's programme)
  • supported many conservation projects including tree planting, hay meadow and wetland conservation.
What's in it for me?
  • A twice yearly, quality, newsletter
  • Special Friends-only walks and talks
  • Free entry to selected AONB events
  • A copy of our Good Practice Guide explaining how you can help conserve treasured features of the AONB
  • Opportunities to meet like minded people
  • Enjoy learning more about the area
  • Join in active conservation work

Friends of the AONB Monks March Walk in October 2008

 

Friends of Nidderdale AONB Farm Walk Event in June 2008

 

Friends of Nidderdale AONB Birdwatching Event in April 2008
How do I become a Friend?
There are two ways to become a Friend -
1. You can make a personal pledge or commit to actions that will benefit the environment of the Nidderdale AONB
or
2. Give a donation which will go towards an environmental project in the Nidderdale AONB.
 
If you would like to join the Friends of Nidderdale AONB please download a registration form. PDF 287KB
 
Our Patron
Photo: Matthew Wilson, Patron of Friends of Nidderdale AONB Matthew Wilson - formerly Curator of RHS Harlow Carr and RHS Head of Gardens Creative Development. He is now Associate Director of Design at the Landscape Agency, and a regular contributor to the gardening media.

On taking up the position Matthew said "Having moved from the South East of England to the Nidderdale AONB, I realise what a privilege it is to live in an area of such diversity. It is the interaction between man and the environment over centuries that makes the area so special.
 
I do recommend the Friends' scheme to you as a way that you can show actively your commitment to this very special place, which the majority of the country would give their right arm to live in."
 
 
 
 

Friends of Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a Company Limited by Guarantee.  Registered in England and Wales. 

Company No.  05383414.  Charity No.  1118228