New Forest National Park Authority
Project Funding
The New Forest National Park Authority has been allocated £220,600 from the Green Recovery Challenge Fund and has raised an additional £81,000 in match funding.
This represents a total of £301,600 towards:
- Recruiting or retaining 7 roles (nature recovery officer, land advice service officer, volunteer co-ordinator, apprentice rangers, youth development officer, communications assistant and project co-ordinator).
- Employing contractors to deliver nature restoration with NFLAS / landowners and for evaluation of the Green and Blue Horizons project.
- Hire of a branded vehicle and tools for volunteer tasks.
Project successes
An overarching goal of the scheme is to connect people with nature and green spaces, especially those living in cities who may have limited or no access to them.
The New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has attended fairs and events showcasing the mental and physical benefits of spending time in nature as well as how to interact and leave a positive impact on these spaces.
NFNPA Rangers and members of the education team have been to university fresher’s fairs, the University of Southampton’s Science and Engineering Day, New Forest & Hampshire County Show and more in a bid to develop the link between city and Forest.
Alongside these events, the NFNPA has coordinated over 70 volunteering days since the beginning of the scheme last autumn. These days range from woodland and wetland restoration by clearing invasive species such as Rhododendron to protecting historic and ancient landmarks.
Apprentice Rangers
The funding received has allowed for the NFNPA to take on two new apprentice rangers. During their year-long stay, each apprentice will work with various Forest partners, engage with the public and learn key skills along the way.
To find out more about the apprenticeship follow the link: Apprentice Rangers – New Forest National Park Authority
Apprentice Ranger James Masser – Q&A – New Forest National Park Authority (newforestnpa.gov.uk)
More information on the roles created by the project can be seen using the links below:
Volunteer with us – New Forest National Park Authority
Nature Recovery Officer – New Forest National Park Authority
Project Co-ordinator (Green and Blue Horizons) – New Forest National Park Authority
Communications Assistant (Horizons Scheme) – New Forest National Park Authority
