A New National Nature Reserve

Plans underway for the rainforest in Borrowdale to be declared a new National Nature Reserve

The National Trust and Natural England are working together to have the Borrowdale Temperate Rainforest declared a National Nature Reserve (NNR). This will go hand in hand with the National Trust’s commitment to celebrating and enhancing this rare habitat.

Together, the woodlands in Borrowdale form the largest remaining piece of England’s native rainforest. In a valley famous for its rainfall, it is every bit as wet as a tropical rainforest and is its equivalent in our cooler, temperate climate. The proposed declaration is a testament to the increased focus on caring for this significant habitat while celebrating the impact the unique landscape here has had on the natural and cultural heritage of the Borrowdale valley.

Starting with 735 hectares, the plans will include re-connecting parcels of woodland to create wildlife corridors and improve the resilience and overall health of the forest. In time and in consultation with farmers and local landholders, the NNR will grow to include other vital areas of woodland.

Fell farming is an integral part of Borrowdale’s cultural history, and this has helped to shape the land and the people within it. To ensure the success of the project and the best outcome for the valley, the National Trust is consulting with and working alongside local farmers, many of which are already doing important conservation work. Helping them access payments for their efforts will be an essential part of the management of the NNR and the surrounding land.

In a popular part of the Lake District, rather than attracting additional visitors, this declaration will hopefully encourage people to understand, appreciate and care for nature here. The National Trust plans to engage the local community in re-connecting with and learning more about the woodland on their doorstep, as well as to provide accessible paths into certain areas of the rainforest to ensure inclusive access.

Jade Allen, National Nature Reserve Officer said: “We are incredibly excited for the launch of our new Borrowdale Rainforests National Nature Reserve project. This project is a big step towards protecting and enhancing the incredibly special rainforests of Borrowdale. Our hopes for the future are for the woodlands

to be thriving and regenerating, for the biodiversity within these woodlands to be improving, and to start reconnecting the woodland fragments for a more viable ecosystem. By working with our local farmers and community we are looking forward to better connecting people with the woodlands, nature, and history of Borrowdale.”

Jean Johnston of Natural England’s Cumbria Team said: “Natural England is delighted to be working with the National Trust to declare Borrowdale Temperate Rainforest as a National Nature Reserve. This proposed declaration will form part of our continued work with the Trust and the farmers in the valley to help protect, expand and reconnect the fabulous habitats in Borrowdale”

The National Trust and Natural England are working through the application process and if all goes well, are hoping for a declaration date sometime this spring. If you would like to hear more, join the National Trust team at Crow Park during the Keswick Mountain Festival (17-18-19 May).

For more information on plans for the Borrowdale rainforest, follow this link: Find out More