New Forest National Park Authority
The New Forest National Park Authority was allocated £220,600 from the Green Recovery Challenge Fund and raised an additional £81,000 in match funding.
This represents a total of £301,600 towards:
- Recruiting or retaining seven jobs (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 projects with landowners and to evaluate the Green and Blue Horizons project.
- Hiring 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 showing the mental and physical benefits of spending time in nature as well as how to leave a positive impact on these spaces.
NFNPA rangers and the education team attended university fresher’s fairs, the University of Southampton’s Science and Engineering Day, New Forest and Hampshire County Show and more in a bid to develop the link between city and Forest.
The NFNPA also coordinated over 70 volunteering days during the 18-month scheme, restoring woodland and wetland sites by clearing invasive plants such as rhododendron, as well as protecting historic and ancient landmarks.
Apprentice Rangers
During a year-long placement, two apprentice rangers worked with various Forest partners, engaging with the public and learning key skills along the way.
