Dick Potts Legacy Fund is now accepting applications

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) is now taking applications for the Dick Potts Legacy Fund.

First announced back in June, the fund is being made available in the form of grants to young ecologists, farmers, gamekeepers and land managers to help cover the expenses of small projects such as farmland wildlife research, supplies, travel costs and attendance at conferences.

It was set up in memory of the highly respected GWCT scientist Dick Potts, who died in March, at the suggestion of his wife, Olga. Since the appeal launched, more than £13,500 has been raised.

Julie Ewald, head of geographical information science at the GWCT, who helped Olga organise the appeal, said: “Dick Potts was quite innovative in how he would arrive at the solution to a problem, often devising small experiments or ways of analysing data that showed the best way forward.

“What we are looking for are similar projects that seek to advance the field of applied wildlife ecology, based on the hunch of those involved in hands-on conservation work. They should be well thought out and address a recognised problem in conservation. We look forward to reading applications and deciding on which ones to support with funds from the Dick Potts Legacy Fund.”

She continued: “It is due to the generosity of friends, family and former colleagues of Dick that we are able to offer this opportunity and we would like to thank everyone for their kind donations.”

Anyone interested in applying for a grant should visit po.st/pottsfund for full details. The closing date for applications is 31 October.

The fund has been set up in memory of the late Dr Dick Potts