1st May 2006

Defra Announces £3.8 Million To Save Rare Species

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Natterjack toads, black grouse and cirl bunting are among rare species that may be saved by nearly £4 million funding from The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

The survival of threatened butterflies, moths and beetles could also be assured as a result of grants awarded today on behalf of Defra by English Nature. Local communities and volunteers will be at the heart of many of the projects that have won funding to restore or improve important habitats such as heathland, grazing meadows and native woodlands.

Biodiversity Minister Jim Knight today welcomed the announcement of 33 biodiversity projects awarded to voluntary organisations in England sharing £3.8 million over the next two years. The grants are provided under the Countdown 2010 Biodiversity Action Fund, run by English Nature on behalf of Defra, to help the UK Government achieve its commitment to halt biodiversity loss by 2010.

Jim Knight said, ‘As well as helping to ensure the survival of rare and important species and habitats, funds are being provided for projects that involve more people in biodiversity conservation, including those from disadvantaged communities and children and young people.’

Andy Brown, Chief Executive of English Nature, said, ‘Over the next two years, the Countdown 2010 fund will support a diverse and exciting range of projects that will benefit every region of England. It will help restore threatened habitats and support the recovery of some of our most endangered species on land and in our seas. Projects supported by the fund will also involve schools and communities in conservation work, helping to raise awareness that we all have a role to play in meeting the challenging target to halt biodiversity loss by 2010. English Nature is delighted to run this important scheme.’