GIANT SUDOKU
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network’ for the entire region.
“Nature needs us now and we also need nature, perhaps now more than ever before in this post-pandemic world where green spaces have taken on a new level of importance. Apart from being incredibly beautiful and part of our shared appreciation for Planet Earth, nature gives us everything – whether it be clean water, fresh air or food to eat. We’re launching this campaign without a moment to lose because it’s time for all of us to help nature to renature.”
The National Park already has some amazing biodiversity – including over 20 species of butterfly being found in just one square metre of chalk grassland and some heaths having all 12 native reptile and amphibian species. But, even here in the South Downs, nature is struggling and needs our help.
Andrew explained: “The crux of this initiative is that we want nature everywhere for everyone. Nature recovery in the South Downs National Park is not one big ‘rewilding’ project – it will be achieved through lots of different projects, both large and small, that together will create nature recovery.
“Our goal will be achieved by working with our farmers, land managers, communities and local authorities, as well as other partners and environmental charities. It will include everything from hedgerow restoration, to planting thousands of trees, to the restoration of individual village ponds, to planting new wildflower corridors.
“Nature recovery is about a National Park that is better for wildlife and people, that will also restore, conserve and enhance the magnificent and varied landscapes that make the South Downs so special.”
Individuals, communities, businesses and funders are now being encouraged to help with the fundraising.
Julie Fawcett, chair of the South Downs National Park Trust, said: “We know we’re aiming big with our fundraising target, but nature desperately needs our help. As a charity, we hope to raise the funds over the next decade in a variety of ways, including donations, grants, public funds and private finance.
“We really want this campaign to capture people’s imaginations about the beauty of nature and the important role we can all play in giving it a helping hand.
“Whether it be making a donation, putting up a bird box in your garden or planting a tree at your school, everyone can help nature.”
Small donations can go a long way - £5 – could pay for a square meter of wildflower meadow, which cleans our water and provides a vital food source for many of our bees and butterflies. £10 could pay for one meter of hedgerow, protecting our soils and supporting 80 per cent of our woodland birds, 50 per cent of our mammals and 30 per cent of our native butterflies, while £20 could pay for two disease resistant Elm trees, helping to restore those native species which have been lost to pests and diseases.
To donate to the South Downs appeal visit https:// southdowns.enthuse.com/ Helpnaturerenature
For more information about the initiative visit www. southdowns.gov.uk/renature