ECO-FRIENDLY companies in Mid Cheshire are learning how to protect one of nature's most delicate creatures.
The Butterfly Conservation group (BC) and the Forestry Commission at Delamere Forest held a training day for Cheshire landowners on Thursday to work to create and manage the countryside for butterflies.
BC has been attempting to raise the profile of the insects across Cheshire through a regional awards scheme for landowners who have excelled at creating and managing butterfly-friendly habitats. At the moment it mainly focuses on companies, but it is hoped it can be expanded to cover private landowners.
George Martin, the BC organiser for Cheshire, arranged the training day for the award-winners, which include the Forestry Commission, to help improve their conservation even further.
National conservation experts were enlisted for the day to give inspiring talks on butterfly conservation, with an informative walk over Old Pale community forest in the afternoon.
The Cheshire Butterfly Conservation Fund was established in November 2001 with the purpose of honouring wildlife rangers, wardens and others in recognition for their contribution to butterfly and moth conservation while carrying out their daily duties.
Award-winners receive a membership to Butterfly Conservation, an invitation to the Annual Members Day and member-ship of the Cheshire and Peak District branch of Butterfly Conservation.
They also get access to expert advice, scientific papers and reports through contact with experts employed by BC. About 40 awards are handed out per year.
Dave Baxter from the Forestry Commission said: 'At the Old Pale community woodlands at Delamere we have used a number of measures to try and encourage butterfly conservation.
'This covers a number of things, such as putting in place beautiful wildflower meadows which encourage butterflies. They bring pleasure and enjoyment to visitors. Their presence is an indication of a good healthy habitat.'
