Wilder Horsham District is a unique partnership between Horsham District Council and the Sussex Wildlife Trust which has recently been extended until the end of 2028.
2024 saw some exciting new developments including working with landowners, such as those at both Mayes Park and Gaywood Farm, to introduce more naturalistic grazing, using small herds of hardy animals to help maintain healthy grassland, scrub, heath and even woodland habitats. Reintroducing these traditional methods helps to maintain conservation as a priority and supports farmers as they embrace the benefits nature brings to their business.
The project team have worked with Sussex Wildlife Trust’s Storrington & Arun Valley Regional Group and initiatives in Shipley and Partridge Green to fund nest boxes for Swifts, House Martins and Swallows, all endangered species.
In addition, committed work party volunteers, including children from Hilltop Primary School, have generated a huge amount of conservation value all over the district.
The project team has also extended its reach by working in partnership with the Adur River Recovery Project, Knepp Wildland Foundation’s Scrubland Superheroes, and the National Trust.
Ultimately we are delighted to see connections grow between landowners independently of the project, which means that Wilder Horsham District’s legacy will live on even if/when the project ends.
Read about the work of Wilder Horsham District
Photo: Mila Anscombe, Sussex Wildlife Trust