Could you be the UKs most wildlife friendly farmer?

Dont miss out on the chance of winning the RSPB Telegraph Nature of Farming Award

The race is on to get entries in for this years RSPB Telegraph Nature of Farming Award with applications being accepted until Saturday 30 April.

The award aims to find the UKs most wildlife friendly farmer who has put in the most work on their land to help threatened countryside species. Its run by the RSPB, supported by Butterfly Conservation and Plantlife, and sponsored by The Telegraph.

Entries are already coming in thick and fast. After the closing date, entries will be shortlisted to eight regional winners then a panel of experts will decide which four should go through to the national finals. The UK public will then decide the winner by casting their votes online via The Telegraph or at country shows throughout the summer. For the first time, there will also be a highly commended category this year, to recognise the efforts of farmers who have excelled in their support of farmland wildlife.

The deadline for entries is 30 April. All the details on how to enter can be found on the RSPB website at www.rspb.org.uk/natureoffarming

RSPB Head of Countryside Conservation and one of this years judges, Darren Moorcroft, said: Nobody wants a countryside devoid of birdsong, butterflies and wildflowers so its important we all work together to make sure that doesnt happen.

Its amazing to be part of an award that recognises farmers who step up for nature by helping our native birds, insects, mammals and plants, whilst producing our food. Im really looking forward to seeing whos doing the most for the UK countrysides most threatened wildlife.

This years judging panel:
Darren Moorcroft – RSPB Head of Countryside Conservation
Martin Warren Butterfly Conservation Chief Executive
Victoria Chester Plantlife Chief Executive
Fergus Collins Countryfile Magazine

Last years winners, the Davison brothers from Northern Ireland, are a shining example of how upland farming can be managed for business and for nature. Their family farm lies in the Antrim Hills, where they are striving to increase numbers of threatened breeding lapwing and curlew and other species, including red grouse and Irish hare. Their love of nature, their conservation successes and their position in the local community make them perfect for promoting key conservation messages to the wider farming community.

The EU LIFE+ Programme funds RSPB work which supports wildlife-friendly farming that furthers sustainable development.

The RSPB speaks out for birds and wildlife, tackling the problems that threaten our environment. Nature is amazing – help us keep it that way. Click here to join today www.rspb.org.uk/join