THE Devon County Show Woodland Awards, which have been absent for 3 years ,have returned for 2023 in a bigger and better capacity.
Recognising the importance of woodland for the environment and conservation, The County Show is working in conjunction with the Forestry Commission to celebrate farmers in the county who are investing in the cultivation and management of woodland in five separate categories: New Trees/Woodland on Farm; Productive Woodland; Agroforestry/Wood pasture; Community Woodland and Woodland Management.
£500 will be awarded to the winners in each category with second £100 for second place and £50 for third place, kindly funded by the Forestry Commission.
The Forestry Commission are delighted to be sponsoring this initiative which helps in their continued drive to raise awareness for the benefits of woodlands to both farmers and landowners.
James Fry, South West Area Director for the Forestry Commission said: ‘Woodland areas not only have far-reaching benefits for the environment and for future generations but they can also provide an alternative source of income -from timber, wood fuel and carbon credits, to recreation and tourism.
‘This is in addition to other benefits that woodland can provide such as protecting watercourses and soil, shelter for animals, helping to improve water quality, and reducing flooding.’
Chris Skelton, CEO of the Devon County Agricultural Association said: ‘The DCAA, the organisation behind the annual Devon County Show, is always looking at ways to fulfil its charitable objectives and these awards, which highlight exciting and innovative woodland management techniques, are just the kind of initiatives we want to encourage and support’ .
Competition entries close at midnight on March 5.
To download an entry form, visit Competitions on Devon County Show’s website
The awards will be presented at Devon County 2023, which takes place on Thursday, May 18, Friday, may 19 and Saturday, May 20, by Sir Harry Studholme.