CLA strengthens environmental advisory team

A fact-finding mission to the North was one of Claire Collyer's first tasks following her appointment as Conservation Adviser for the CLA.

Claire, who joins the CLA from Natural England, and who has also worked with Defra's Rural Development Service, visited CLA farming Members to learn more about the farming systems in the Northern uplands and the pressures these face.

The tour gave Claire a first-hand insight into the issues faced by farmers in the North. Starting in the North East Claire visited upland beef and sheep farms, as well as meeting the CLA's North East chairman, Annabelle Morshead, at her farm near Haydon Bridge. Their discussions revolved around the role the CLA has to play in representing its Northern Members' interests when dealing with Government agencies in the region and nationally.

The following day saw Claire visit CLA Cumbria President Pauline Blair, and she was also able to visit other dairy, beef and sheep farmers, all in the Cumbrian uplands. Discussions included overcoming barriers to farm diversification, planning issues and the huge environmental management role played by upland farmers.

As a result of the tour, Claire will be taking CLA Members' concerns to London where they will have a direct influence on the CLA's future policy and lobbying activities.

Ms Collyer said; "I am delighted to join the CLA at such a challenging and important time for landowners and for all those who live and work in the countryside. Environmental issues are at the top of the political agenda at the moment, and our Members are affected in many ways. Our job is to inform our Members of the facts and what they mean to them, but it is just as important that we ensure Government is aware of the real issues and the implications of their policies."