The effects of climate change and restoring wildlife was the focus of a visit to Ennerdale this week, when Copeland MP Trudy Harrison joined Forestry England for an update on the Wild Ennerdale Partnership.
Mrs Harrison met with Forestry England to hear progress on the Wild Ennerdale partnership, a project which has provided 30 miles of traffic-free paths in Ennerdale.
It is one of the UK’s largest wild land projects which aims to let natural processes shape the landscape and ecology, allowing ecosystems throughout the valley to evolve with greater freedom.
Mrs Harrison said: “We are fortunate enough to live in one of the most beautiful and scenic areas of Britain, now recognised as a World Heritage Site for its stunning ancient landscapes, farming and the birthplace of conservation.
“Having grown up in Copeland, I appreciate how important our local environment is and the many benefits it affords locals, visitors, tourism, businesses and farming, but it must be protected and preserved for generations to come.
“I was pleased to meet with Forestry England this week to discuss how we can go further to protect our vibrant ecosystem and the natural environment worldwide.”
The visit also provided the chance to discuss Forestry England’s five-year plan, Growing The Future, which sets out priorities to tackle climate change, protect nature and wildlife and encourage more people to enjoy natural environments.
Kevin May, forest management director for North England, at Forestry England, said: “It was a delight to welcome Trudy to the Ennerdale valley to learn more about the work of the Wild Ennerdale Partnership, which over 20 years has enhanced the Lake District landscape through restoring natural processes.
“We discussed the opportunities to grow the value of the nations forests for wildlife, for people and the climate; and how we are responding to the increasing challenges presented by tree diseases in West Cumbria in the coming months and years.”
To read more about the Wild Ennerdale Partnership, click here.
