Have your say to boost Hertfordshire’s biodiversity and species

The newly-formed Hertfordshire Nature Recovery Partnership (HNRP) – which includes Hertfordshire councils – including Three Rivers District Council - environmental public bodies, and organisations from the private and charity sectors – is creating a Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

The new strategy will help identify, protect, enhance and create habitats across Hertfordshire, supporting environmental recovery whilst tackling species and habitat loss.

The HNRP is calling on land managers, businesses and residents across the county to fill out an online surveyor attend events to help inform actions on helping the recovery of habitats and species in the county.

There will be one event in the Three Rivers district, which will run from 4pm to 8pm:

· Wednesday 17 July - Rickmansworth Baptist Church, High St, Rickmansworth WD3 1EH

Cllr Eric Buckmaster, Chair of HNRP, said: “We are excited to see how we can enhance our open spaces by mapping key habitats and species in order to identify opportunities for nature recovery. This could include supporting wildflower meadows, tree planting, or river and wetland restoration, but we need you to have your say.

“By joining the engagement process, you will help us better understand our habitats and species. From there, the LNRS can then identify priorities in order to protect natural habitats and enhance biodiversity across Hertfordshire.”

Cllr Stephen Giles-Medhurst, Leader of Three Rivers District Council, said: “Protecting and enhancing our natural world could not be more important. Data shows that UK species have declined by about 19% on average since 1970, so we must do everything we can to reverse this. I urge everyone who cares about the environment to have their say on the strategy.”

A scheduled series of online webinars will also be arranged for those who are unable to visit the in-person events. Promoted on the website, these sessions will allow people to engage in the project from home whilst still playing a crucial role in the LNRS’ development.

To participate in the webinars or for more information about the locations and times of the in-person events, please visit the HNRP website.

And for any further details, please email localnaturerecovery@hertfordshire.gov.uk or call the freephone number: 0800 148 8911.