South Chilterns farmers and landowners event

Mend the Gap recently hosted a meeting for more than 35 farmers and landowners in the south Chilterns to discuss how they might work together to enhance the region’s landscape. Held at Whitchurch-on-Thames in the heart of the Mend the Gap programme area, the event drew participants that own or manage a diverse variety of land types, from forestry estates to grazing pasture, and large-scale arable farms to small private meadows. An enthusiastic workshop session saw groups discuss topics such as regenerative agriculture, soil health, habitat creation and connection, and monitoring programmes. Speakers included Belinda Bown from the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group South East and Nick Marriner, Landowner Engagement Officer at Chilterns Conservation Board.

The day finished with the creation of an informal steering group, drawn from those in the room, who will now keep the group connected and drive forward plans to work towards common goals that will positively impact the landscape and wildlife of the area.