The final proposal for the Greater Sedgemoor Landscape Recovery project has been successfully submitted, and the two-year development phase is soon coming to a close.
An ambitious, 20-year plan has been collectively designed by landowners and project partners that supports climate-resilient and nature friendly farming practices, restores vital ecosystems, increases biodiversity and enhances public access and engagement across a large area of the Somerset levels and moors.
We will soon hear if the project is to enter the next stage of negotiation with Defra and will be keeping all stakeholders informed of this progress. If successful, the scheme will be implemented and those who have signed in to the project development phase will have the opportunity to enter a new, locally designed and delivered 20-year land management agreement.
The Greater Sedgemoor Landscape Recovery Project is a two-year development projects from March 2024 -2026, working with multiple landowners, farmers, statutory agencies, communities and other stakeholders across nearly 5000hs of the Somerset Levels and Moors south of the Polden Hills to develop a single, bespoke 20-year land management agreement. The intention of this agreement is to support climate-resilient, nature-friendly farming and land management actions, working to the Lawton Principles of ‘more, bigger, better, and more joined-up’.
Working with 120 landowners on a 1:1 basis to work through and build a collaborative project encompassing local schools, councils, neighbouring villages and farming communities.
Focusing on:
- Protecting and enhancing biodiversity
- Supporting sustainable agriculture
- Mitigating the impacts of climate change
- Improving water quality
- Improving public access and connectivity
- Community engagement
The Greater Sedgemoor Landscape Recovery Project will support a future where people and nature thrive together in a restored, resilient and diverse landscape. By implementing sustainable land management practices, restoring vital eco systems, and enhancing the area’s wildlife, the project aims to create a legacy for future generations.
The long-term vision includes:
- Agricultural practices that work in harmony with nature
- A thriving network of interconnected wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands
- Increased populations of endangered species and a diverse range of wildlife
- Communities that are more resilient to climate change and more connected to their environment
The Project Farm Liaison Officers are:
Helen White who covers the northern half of the area which includes Moorlinch, Nythe, Kings Sedgemoor, Butleigh, Henley and Sutton moors. helen.white@fwagsw.org.uk
Bill Bradshaw who covers the southern half of project area including Aller, Aller North, Wick, Langport and West Sedgemoor areas. bill.bradshaw@fwagsw.org.uk
Find out more about the project via the RSPB website:
Greater Sedgemoor Landscape Recovery Project
