Gildernew congratulates nature of farming finalist

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has visited the Co Down farm of Michael Calvert, who is a finalist in the 2009 Nature of Farming Awards.

Arable farmer, Michael Calvert of Barnwell Farms near Newtownards Co. Down, has reached the 2009 final of the Nature of Farming Award. Michael has been a participant in DARD’s Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) since 2002 and the award celebrates the efforts of farmers, like him, who have provided for wildlife.

Following a tour of Michael’s nominated farm, the Minister said: “During my visit today to Michael’s farm, I have been very impressed by the work he has undertaken to enhance his local countryside through his participation in the CMS. He has done so much for wildlife on his busy arable farm through options like planting native trees, winter stubbles and wild bird cover. His efforts are a great illustration of how commercial farming can go hand-in-hand with increasing biodiversity in the countryside.

“Michael’s farm is an excellent example of good practice, and I am very proud that one of our CMS farmers has successfully reached the final of the Nature of Farming Award. I wish Michael all the best with the competition in August and hope he inspires others to follow in his footsteps in the future.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Nature of Farming Award is run jointly by the RSPB, BBC Countryfile magazine, Plantlife and Butterfly Conservation. The result will be decided by members of the public who can vote via the websites of these organisations.

2. More information about this award is available at the web address below: http://www.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/farming/natureoffarming/index.asp

3. Michael has been a participant in the Countryside Management Scheme since 2002. He has many options on his farm to benefit wildlife including conservation crop margins, wild bird cover, winter stubbles, hedgerow restoration, and native tree planting. In 2006 he joined the RSPB Yellowhammer Recovery Project with the aim of increasing breeding numbers of this Red Listed species.

4. All media queries to DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.