For the third year running, individuals, organisations and students are invited to apply for financial support from the Strategy for Nature Fund to support environmental initiatives that further the goals and objectives of the Strategy for Nature.

Last year, seven local environmental projects and three students benefitted from this funding. These projects included an assessment of barn owl populations, the removal of sour fig, the promotion of a natural history movie and an assessment of microplastic pollution around Guernsey, amongst other projects.

The fund was established in recognition that the Strategy for Nature is not simply a government document; it is a framework that requires support and action from the whole community to achieve its goals and objectives.

A total of £40,000 is donated through the fund in the form of grants, with £9,000 of that total dedicated specifically to a bursary for students completing graduate or post graduate degrees in a relevant subject with a commitment to carry out data collection for their research project on-island.

Previously, the fund had been solely managed and administered by Agriculture, Countryside and Land Management Services (ACLMS). However, for the first time, the fund will be managed in partnership with the recently launched Nature Commission, which was established earlier this year to work with business, government, the third sector and the general public to enhance the island’s natural environment and promote greater biodiversity.

Julia Henney, Senior Natural Environment Officer, said:

“Charities, students and other individuals play a vital role in protecting and enhancing our biodiversity whilst improving our understanding of local wildlife. The Strategy for Nature Fund has been the catalyst for many fantastic projects since it launched a couple of years ago, serving to significantly enrich our understanding of our natural environment across land, sea and sky. As we open applications for another round of funding, we’re so excited to see what projects we might be able to support this year.”

Angela Salmon, Nature Commission, said:

‘‘The Nature Commission is thrilled to be working in partnership with ACLMS to manage the Strategy for Nature Fund. This fund provides financial support for environmental projects and we would encourage individuals and organisations to apply. A lack of funds can often be a reason for potential projects to stall so this funding provides the essential boost that is needed to get some amazing projects up and running.’’