Wildcare

Learn how Waitrose essential Milk is helping Britain’s wildlife

WildCare is an environmental scheme designed to improve the wildlife habitat on farms, increase biodiversity and species numbers. Its principal focus is on the creation of ‘wildlife corridors’ through effective environmental management of hedgerows, ditches, watercourses and field margins.

This will provide the necessary habitats for many species of plants, insects, birds and mammals.

The WildCare scheme is based on a set of environmental standards that have been compiled in conjunction with The Wildlife Trust. The scheme links with DEFRA on agricultural policy in consideration of local, county and national Biodiversity Action Plans.

• The WildCare initiative ensures all Waitrose essential milk producers ultimately dedicate a minimum of 10% of their farms to wildlife habitats, with the aim of improving biodiversity and species numbers on their land. However, farms assessed to date are achieving in excess of 15% over the national average.
• Waitrose essential milk producers work with specialist wildlife advisers to develop Farm Wildlife Action Plans, with the aim of protecting and enhancing the wildlife on their farms. Each farm is monitored regularly to record changes in species numbers and biodiversity.
• The WildCare scheme has been developed especially and exclusively for the Waitrose Farm Group. It is independent, measurable and fully endorsed by a well-respected and recognised body, The Wildlife Trusts.

The farmers will receive a copy of their individual action plan, incorporating photographs from their farm, advice and support on how to develop the wildlife habitats in the future. The farms will be monitored closely for progress on the implementation of the action plan and record changes in biodiversity, species numbers and will publish results on the website.

The WildCare advisers will also work closely with The Wildlife Trust to ensure that there is a full understanding of the scheme standards. The Wildlife Trust will monitor the WildCare scheme.

WildCare essential milk is available in branch. Find out more about our milk.

More information

For more information about WildCare, visit www.wildcare.co.uk (this link will open in a new window).