Rishi joined green champions involved in practical, community-led environmental projects in Swaledale.
He helped plant tree saplings as part of Sustainable Swaledale's project ‘Together for Trees’, which has seen the group plant trees at over 40 sites over the past four years.
The group monitors the trees planted to keep track of survival rates and take remedial action to ensure the long-term health of the trees and hedges planted.
During the visit, Rishi met Treasurer Rob Macdonald, Dr Mike Brooks from Reeth Medical Centre and other members of Sustainable Swaledale.
Volunteers spoke about their ongoing projects, including the Incredible Edible initiative, which grows fruit, vegetables and herbs for community use. Dr Brooks spoke to Rishi about the benefits of smaller, locally led initiatives to promote sustainability.
Rishi also heard how the community, including the local primary school have become involved, with students planting various herbs at the Centre.
Rishi also heard about another initiative that Sustainable Swaledale are undertaking, the Swifts, Swallows & Martins Project. This project seeks to raises awareness of the challenges facing these migratory birds.
The project supports local efforts to protect nesting sites, encourages residents to install nest boxes, and promotes recording sightings to help safeguard these species for the future.
Speaking after the visit, Rishi said:
"It was a pleasure to meet the team at Sustainable Swaledale and hear about the fantastic work they are doing to protect and enhance our local environment.”
“Their hands-on, community-driven approach is making a real difference and helping to preserve the natural beauty of the Dales for future generations. I’m very grateful to all the volunteers for their dedication and commitment."
Rob Macdonald, Treasurer of Sustainable Swaledale, said:
"It is easy to forget that the wealth and well-being of everyone are underpinned by nature, so it was wonderful to have Rishi endorsing our projects by coming to see Sustainable Swaledale at work in Reeth and show such interest in what we do."
