A programme of outreach, engagement, celebration and sharing of activities to enable people to learn about the wildlife, habitats and heritage of the area and get involved in their conservation.
Hands on Heritage was about creating opportunities for local people, and visitors, to explore the natural and cultural heritage of the area. It highlighted the crucial connection between people and the landscape, both in the past and the present.
The project worked with the community to celebrate and learn about the area’s wildlife, heritage and habitats. It did this through a programme of outreach, engagement, celebration and sharing of activities.
The story of the Rusland Horizons area, and the scheme itself, has been told through events, activities, film, booklets, and website. We encouraged people to explore the Rusland Valley and Fells area and truly appreciate its landscape and connection between the past and present. Our aim to increase dwell time and deepen engagement has hopefully also been achieved, particularly for those who were previously unaware of the area and its heritage.
Achievements:
- A deeper engagement and appreciation of the Rusland Valley with a strong interest to learn more about the local heritage.
- With wildlife and their habitats at the centre of this project, people have been encouraged to get outside, explore and discover.
- Increased sense of community with substantial support and attendance at the events and workshops held.
- A hugely successful 'Bioblitz' weekend in 2018 at Bowkerstead Farm. All the different species found in the area were recorded over 24 hours. Scroll down to 'Watch' below.
- Great attendance at the 'Big Xmas Bash events' conservation work parties. Activities included; bridge-building, path-clearing, dry-stone-walling and coppicing, followed by mulled wine and hot stew at The Manor House, Oxen Park.