North Yorkshire farmers, landowners and land managers are being asked their views about how their business and nature can work together.
North Yorkshire Council is asking for local knowledge and expertise in managing land and food production to shape a Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS).
Following a series of events in February, it has been developing a local habitat map, and now needs to produce a strategy to help address the decline of nature.
It will identify locations to improve nature and provide benefits such as capturing carbon from the atmosphere, flood regulation and access to spaces rich with nature.
The strategy aims to improve prospects for wildlife and help businesses become more resilient to the effects of climate change and deliver wider environmental benefits.
It is also expected to assist farmers and land managers access incentives such as the Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMs).
The council's environment spokesman, Cllr Greg White said: "The strategy will map nature in our region and identify an action plan to help safeguard it for the future.
"Key to its success will be the input and knowledge of farmers and land managers to understand what we can do to help nature to flourish.
“They have already helped immensely through the first round of events. In this series, we are keen to hear local knowledge and experience in land management and food production, as well as how nature can be enhanced alongside their business."
Events will take place this month and in early December and will include an update on the local habitat map, a question and answer session, an introduction to the Local Investment in Natural Capital (LINC) programme, potential funding streams for delivery of habitat improvements, and an update on the LNRS.
Places are free and limited to 20 people per event and will be followed by a light meal.
In-person events:
- Tuesday, November 26, from 11am to 1pm at Skipton Auction Mart
- Wednesday, November 27, from 11am to 1pm at Ripon Community House
- Wednesday, November 27, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at The Golden Lion Hotel, Northallerton
- Wednesday, December 4, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Malton and Norton RUFC, Malton
- Thursday, December 5, from 11am to 1pm at Grassington Devonshire Institute
- Friday, December 6, from 12.30pm to 2.30pm at North York Moors National Park Authority, Helmsley
For anyone who cannot attend in person, an online event will take place on Tuesday, November 12, from 7pm to 8pm.
The timing of an event at Askham Bryan College, York, is yet to be confirmed.
Places can be booked online at www.northyorks.gov.uk/local-nature-recovery-strategy or by emailing LNRS@northyorks.gov.uk stating which date and venue you would like to attend.
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