Species Challenge Fund in Wales

The humble river-jelly lichen and the majestic Baleen whale are only two of 187 priority species targeted under the Species Challenge Fund in Wales, managed by the Countryside Council for Wales. The Fund, which is open for applications until 20th May 2005, aims to offer grant aid to stimulate practical conservation action, develop voluntary sector capacity and support the participation of private individuals able to personally undertake conservation programmes.

The total money available in this round is £70,000; with the maximum amount available for work on any particular species is £10,000. Projects will normally be expected to start on or after 15 July 2005 and must be completed by 28th February 2006.

The projects can range from wildlife surveys and monitoring to practical habitat restoration work. The red squirrel, basking shark, water vole, great-crested newt and wild chamomile are just some of the better known species on the list – while species such as the pink sea fan, lesser bearded stonewort and stiletto fan, while less well known, are equally as important to the overall biodiversity of the Welsh environment.

Emyr Thomas, Team Leader at CCW’s Grants Unit, said, “The Species Challenge Fund is a great way for voluntary organisations and private individuals to get involved in the practical conservation of some of Wales’ rarest and most important species.

“All projects will need to be designed to deliver targets and actions identified in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and range from threatened habitats such as mudflats and saline lagoons to declining species such as the common skate and nightjar.

“We want voluntary groups and individuals to be involved in the scheme as they are often best placed to manage wildlife projects at a practical and local level. Anybody interested in applying to the Species Challenge Fund should contact Pauline Hughes at the Countryside Council for Wales for further information on 01248 385786 or by email: p.hughes@ccw.gov.uk "

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