Dartmoor National Park Authority

20 May 2009

Dartmoor Farmers’ Carbon Reduction Project

A new project funded by the Dartmoor Sustainable Development Fund and the Duchy of Cornwall to undertake a carbon audit of 35 Dartmoor farms is being launched at Corringdon Farm, South Brent, courtesy of Mr Philip French and family, on Wednesday 3rd June 2009 10.30am to 2.30pm.

The project will offer a subsidised visit from FWAG to undertake a carbon audit of the farm enterprise. This will look at opportunities for cost savings through improved nutrient management or energy generation, while also helping the environment.  Another half day follow-up visit will take forward the audit results and offer free soil sampling and nutrient planning advice, or renewable energy feasibility advice by the Devon Association for Renewable Energy. Whilst on the farm, FWAG can also discuss possibilities for the Environmental Stewardship Scheme. Farmers only need to contribute £100 towards the £450 cost of the one-and-a-half days support being offered.  

Annabel Martin of FWAG, who will be carrying out the audits, said:

Dartmoor farmers are uniquely positioned to help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.  Whilst upland farmers’ extensive systems are already less reliant on artificial inputs, Dartmoor’s high rainfall and windspeeds may offer opportunities for both hydro electricity generation, and farm-scale wind turbines to produce viable power generation. The woods around the edge of the moor also offer options for converting to woodfuel boiler systems.  In addition, well managed peat soils are a sink for atmospheric CO2.

Please ring Devon FWAG on (01392) 364392 if you would like to attend the launch event at South Brent.  Directions can be provided over the phone or by e-mail.

Ends

For further information

Annabel Martin, FWAG Resource Management Regional Specialist

Tel: 0771 3333208

www.fwag.org.uk (external link, opens new window)

Notes for Editors

Dartmoor Sustainable Development Fund

Dartmoor Sustainable Development Fund (DSDF) awards grants to projects that demonstrate that they bring about social, financial AND environmental gains to the place and /or people of Dartmoor.  Individuals, businesses, community groups and charities are all eligible to apply for funding.  The Fund has £180,000 to award to projects annually.  The Panel meet bimonthly and applications are welcome on a continuous basis, however applicants should discuss their proposal with the grant officer, Holly Tiffen, in the first instance.  Further information on the DSDF, including a downloadable application can be found at www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk.

Contact Holly Tiffen, Dartmoor Sustainable Development Fund Officer

Tel: (01626) 831067

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Page updated 19 May 2009