Top 10 Conservation Priorities

Projects which are land management focused would be expected to contribute to at least one of the ‘Top 10 Conservation Priorities’ for the North Pennines AONB, as identified in the Management Plan.

Peatland and other soils

Continuing to block the remaining grips and address large-scale bare/eroding peatland. Using bespoke projects and management agreements to restore ecosystem function on our moorlands, including addressing issues created by burning blanket bog and track construction. Promote agricultural practices that support the health of other soils. Benefits of this work include action on natural flood management, biodiversity conservation, carbon storage and sequestration and water quality. Note: we see the Nature for Climate Fund and activity in the frame of the Great North Bog as the primary route to peatland restoration funding though it could be supported at a modest scale

Species-rich grassland  

Conserving the best sites and building on programmes of large-scale restoration across the landscape, addressing declines in quality and extent. Benefits include promoting connectivity and key species recovery/expansion.

Native and mixed woodland and scrub

Expanding the area of native and mixed woodland and scrub to promote biodiversity, add texture and depth to the landscape, store and sequester carbon, support natural flood management and improve riparian habitat. Benefits include promoting habitat connectivity and diversity, without compromising wader, grassland and peatland conservation.

Rivers and riparian habitat

Improving the water quality and habitat quality/diversity in rivers and streams. Through minewater remediation, managing invasive species, removing blockages to fish passage, improving riparian habitat and in-stream habitat and reducing run-off from farms / sediment load from peatlands

Breeding wading birds

Understanding local trends in wader populations, farmers and Estates being supported to take action for wader conservation through advice and practical measures, including creating small wetlands and modifications to management practices

Arctic-alpine flora

Conserving the artic alpine flora of upper Teesdale on the Moor House-Upper Teesdale NNR through managing vegetation, grazing, rabbits and access. Regular monitoring is especially important for this rare and threatened flora.

Dark night skies

Replacing old street lighting with LED at low colour temperature, on at the right time and directed only where needed is the main conservation measure alongside the production of joint lighting guidance. Note – this is not anticipated as being fundable through the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme, but programmes of dark sky discovery and celebration which support local services would be eligible

Specific species conservation, including raptors 

Work to eradicate raptor persecution, protect breeding and wintering birds cautions where evidence allows. Taking action for specific species which may require bespoke effort during the life of the Plan (eg. water vole) or taking opportunities when they arise (eg. for beaver).

Archaeological sites and features        

Excavations and research focused on improving the conservation and understanding of North Pennines archaeology. Maximising public support and engagement by making this work accessible and supporting community-based organisations who share this interest

Historic buildings and structures           

The conservation, consolidation and interpretation of historic buildings and structures especially those related to mining heritage. Working closely with land managers, volunteers and community organisations to develop capacity to maintain and interpret some of these structures into the future.