In September, The Trust announced that it had an unmissable opportunity to buy and protect Archers Green, a designated Local Wildlife Site, and the vulnerable habitats it contains. The 20-acre site sits in a priority area for conservation action, within the Mimram Valley, and supports some of our most iconic, yet threatened wildlife, such as Water Vole, Skylark and Harebell.
Home to lowland meadows, wet woodland, marsh and chalk stream, Archers Green is flanked by the River Mimram, one of just 240 chalk streams in the entire world. These unique river systems are so rare, and support some of our most endangered species – they are the UK’s equivalent to tropical rainforests. Without purchasing and safeguarding Archers Green, its future and the wonderful wildlife it’s home to could be at risk.
The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge provides the Trust with a much-needed opportunity to boost their fundraising to secure this important site. Launching on Giving Tuesday and for one week only, from 29 November to 6 December, donations to the Archers Green Appeal will be matched up to a total of £10,000, meaning that those giving will see their money doubled.
Talking about the Archers Green fundraising campaign and the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge, Emma Norrington, Director of Development at the Trust, commented: “The week of the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge is a great time to donate, knowing that the money will be doubled going towards protecting Archers Green and the fabulous wildlife that thrives there.
“We appreciate that many individuals and organisations see the importance of protecting land for wildlife but, at the same time, the cost of living crisis means times are tough. If people can’t give, they can still help our fundraising campaign by sharing this news with their family, friends and colleagues or by taking part in a fundraising event or challenge. We are extremely grateful for anything people can do to support the future of Archers Green.”
Speaking about the new nature reserve, Sarah Perry, the Trust’s River Catchment Co-ordinator, said, “The location of Archers Green is especially important as it provides a vital link with nearby sites, helping to secure and strengthen a wildlife corridor along the Mimram Valley and creating more space for nature in the local area.”
Support the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge and double the impact of your donation to help the Trust buy and protect Archers Green from 12pm on 29 November to 12pm on 6 December. You can also visit our website to find out more about the appeal for Archers Green.