27 February 2013

Conservation has grey results

(from left) Joe Harper, Managing Director of Dods of Haddington, sponsors of the trophy; Niall Donaldson, owner of Tanderlane Farm, Garvald, East Lothian and trophy recipient; Hugo Starker, senior advisor, Game & Wildlife Conservation TrustThe neighbouring farm of the 2012 Dods of Haddington Grey Partridge Trophy winner has lifted the same award in 2013.

Tanderlane Farm is the latest recipient of the conservation accolade which was presented to nearby Baro Farm last year. In presenting the trophy, Hugo Straker, senior advisor with the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust said the result ably demonstrated how effective management over contiguous ownerships could further boost the fortunes of the iconic grey partridge.

“It is very exciting that Tanderlane Farm is the latest recipient of the prestigious East Lothian Grey Partridge Trophy,” said Hugo.

“Niall Donaldson is wisely utilising his Scottish Rural Development scheme to implement a good distribution of grass margins for nesting cover and provide specialist crops for brood rearing and winter holding cover. Foxes and crows are controlled and there is a considerable investment in the provision of feed hoppers. It is gratifying to note how often the resident partridges are found in the crops or seen under feeders. Fingers crossed for a dry, warm summer!"

“I am particularly honoured to receive this trophy when I see who the previous winners have been,” said Niall. “It is very satisfying for me to see so many wild grey partridges in this area especially after the weather we have endured over the last year. I hope the conservation work we farmers undertake in East Lothian, with the help of Dodseed and the GWCT, continues to help restore partridge numbers to that of previous times”

“Dods of Haddington are proud to be able to support farmers’ conservation work throughout the region and this trophy award is a wonderful way to recognize individual efforts as well as demonstrating how profitable farming can work hand in glove with sympathetic game and wildlife management.” said Joe Harper, Managing Director of the trophy sponsors, Dods of Haddington.

END

Caption: (from left) Joe Harper, Managing Director of Dods of Haddington, sponsors of the trophy; Niall Donaldson, owner of Tanderlane Farm, Garvald, East Lothian and trophy recipient; Hugo Starker, senior advisor, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust.


Notes to editors

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust is an independent wildlife conservation charity which carries out scientific research into Britain’s game and wildlife. We advise farmers and landowners on improving wildlife habitats. We employ 22 post-doctoral scientists and 50 other research staff with expertise in areas such as birds, insects, mammals, farming, fish and statistics. We undertake our own research as well as projects funded by contract and grant-aid from Government and private bodies. The Trust is also responsible for a number of Government Biodiversity Action Plan species and is lead partner for grey partridge and joint lead partner for brown hare and black grouse.

For information, contact:

Playfair Walker
Telephone: 0131 445 5570
Email: richard@playfairwalker.com