Allerton Project marks its quarter of a century

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust’s (GWCT) Allerton Project demonstration farm is celebrating its 25th anniversary with an open day next week. The project was established at Loddington in Leicestershire in 1992 and current research includes zero-till soil improvement, the effect of predation on farmland birds, pollinators, water quality and cover crops.

Visitors will get the chance to see the fruits of the GWCT’S labour for themselves on 28 June. Head of research at the project, Professor Chris Stoate, said: “The work at Allerton has been ground-breaking. We work with farmers and university scientists; with retailers and other conservation charities; and our local community. Such broad collaboration has enabled us to address a wide range of agricultural and environmental issues.”

Project head Alastair Leake added: “The timed walks will give everyone a chance to learn about the variety of work we carry out, from explaining the science behind beetle banks to the zero-till soil management on soil biology, structure and infiltration to the construction of wetlands. We have lots planned and look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible.”

There are eight walks on the day, starting at 10.30am and running to 2pm. Anyone wishing to join one must book in advance by contacting awoolford@gwct.org.uk.

Be sure to pick up next week’s issue in which GWCT’S Mike Swan looks back on 25 years of the project.

The GWCT’S Allerton Project has run at Loddington for 25 years