The Isle of Man Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group have opened entries for the 2024 Farm Conservation Challenge.
This award is made annually to the farm or farmer in the Isle of Man who, in the opinion of the judges, has done most to promote conservation on their holding alongside a sustainable farm business.
Judging covers environmental support of habitats, flora and fauna, landscape and historical interests, soil, water and energy resource management and community/peer engagement.
Farm Conservation
The competition will be split into two categories: – larger and smaller farms.
The section winner in each category will receive a cash prize of £500 together with a framed certificate.
The second-placed farm in each category will receive a cash prize of £350 and also a framed certificate.
The overall winner will also be presented with the perpetual Bronze Chough Trophy for a year and will have the opportunity to go forward to the Silver Lapwing competition the following year.
In addition, there is a further award of £150 to another entrant who has a specific feature or habitat identified as being of noted merit or for their special endeavours.
Who Can Enter?
The challenge is open to all registered commercial farmers, whether tenants or owners.
Entries and nominations may also be submitted jointly by farmers and landowners if it is considered that the work on a particular property is a joint endeavour.
Entries are encouraged from all types of farming enterprises: arable or livestock, lowland or upland, large or small, family-run or other are all judged in their own business context.
No winner of the Chough Award from the previous five years may re-enter, sorry Cooil Brothers!
Entries need to be made by next Wednesday (July 31).
How to Enter
Any queries/questions please phone/text Paul Fletcher FWAG Chairman on 463032
To access and return by email completed entry forms to: – fwagiom@outlook.com or manxchasers@hotmail.com or to the Van Mossel Jacksons Stand at the Southern Agricultural show.
By post to: FWAG Farm Conservation Challenge c/o Mrs Hilary Fletcher – Administrator, Ballig Farm, Jurby East, Isle of Man, IM7 3HD
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