Entries are now being accepted for the 2010 Friends of Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Conservation Award.

This annual award is designed to recognise property managers in the Nidderdale AONB who demonstrate a willingness to promote the objectives of the AONB by valuing the landscape and wildlife through sensitive management. Examples of this could include: protection of ancient woodlands, water margins and wetlands; preserving and enhancing cultural features such as flower rich grasslands, traditional buildings, boundary features and ancient trackways; and encouraging the public appreciation and enjoyment of special features.

AONB Ranger, Barry Slaymaker said, “Any management of property or land located within the AONB that demonstrates a reduction in environmental impacts, encourages sustainability or actively protects the natural and cultural heritage will be eligible.”

Last years award was won by Rachel Benson and partners, tenants of Old Sleningford Farm, North Stainley. They run a 17-acre smallholding and practice a low environmental impact lifestyle aiming to be as self sufficient as possible. They keep chickens, pigs, sheep, turkeys and bees, grow their own food in their Forest Garden, raised beds and polytunnel, and produce and sell charcoal. In addition they run courses, events and volunteer workdays.

The 2010 award is sponsored by Nova Healthcare who run a specialist brain cancer treatment centre at St James’s Hospital, Leeds. Three cash prizes, totalling £550 are available and they will be awarded at Ripley Show on Sunday 15th August.

Further details and entry forms are available from the AONB website at www.nidderdaleaonb.org.uk/nidderdale-375 or by calling 01423 712950. The closing date for entries is Saturday 26th June 2010.