The principles of nature restoration

Working together

Sir, – Paddy Woodworth is right to draw attention to the common ground which exists between the principles of nature restoration and the aims and intentions of most farmers (“The critical distinction between ‘restoration’ and ‘rewilding’”, Science & Climate, August 17th).

Now more than ever we need to consolidate this common ground and reject attempts by those who cynically attempt to drive a wedge between landowners and environmentalists. Paddy Woodworth correctly cites the restoration of hedgerows as a good example of an activity which offers no threat to rural communities or food production but which can bring significant benefits to biodiversity and more.

An innovative joint project between Teagasc, The Heritage Council, farming organisations and environmental groups to produce hedgerow management guidelines is currently under way and will present its findings in Hedgerow Week (September 1st to 8th).

This venture is helping to reinforce the important finding that these apparently disparate groups share a nature restoration vision. – Yours, etc,

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Dr ALAN MOORE,

Hedgerows Ireland,

Fethard,

Co Tipperary.