FARMERS were invited along to a special event near Ingleton to find out about how planting trees and livestock can live happily together - and how it need not be an 'either-or' option.

The 'trees with livestock' event held at Sandra Ireton's farm in Chapel-le-dale, was organised by the Yorkshire Dales Farmer Network with funding from the Soil Association.

In glorious conditions, Sandra gave a superb farm tour looking at buffer strips, hedge planting and shelter belts. Such schemes fully compliment livestock grazing on the farm, adding to the biodiversity and habitat and at the same time providing essential shelter and shade for both cattle and sheep.

Sandra together with Mike Appleton from the Clapham-based environmental charity, the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust discussed various funding and grant schemes to help farmers create and establish new tree planting opportunities on their farms, with an aim to compliment the farm business rather than having an 'either or' choice.

The Farmer Network, which tries to help famers look at all potential opportunities for their businesses, promoting best practice and new thinking, says there is currently much talk about tree planting on farmland.

It says there are many funded schemes available to help farmers looking to add more trees to those already established on their land, ranging from commercial planting opportunities to laying hedges and single trees within pastures.

Farmer Network coordinator Carol Moffat who organised the event in Chapel-le-dale, said:“We were delighted with this event and the enthusiasm generated amongst the farmers who attended. There was lots of discussion, comment and sharing of ideas and experiences. Farmers always work best when they work together."

Farmers wanting more information about the themes discussed within the “Trees and Livestock” event and applying for grants, should contact Carol Moffat on 01768 868615 or carol@thefarmernetwork.co.uk The Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust works with partners including the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, the Woodland Trust and the Forestry Commission to provide advice on woodland planting, design and specification, help to complete a woodland grant application, identify other potential funding opportunities and recommend contractors to carry out the work.

Its woodland grants support the creation of new native broadleaf woodlands, hedgerow and landscape trees in the national park and Nidderdale AONB.

Applications from outside the specified areas will also be considered if they meet funding criteria.

Find out more about the YDMT at: https://www.ydmt.org/