GFT secures second round of FIRNS funding for Annan project

---

GFT has qualified for the second round of FIRNS funding, allowing us to continue and finalise the development of our Annan Riparian Restoration Network project.

The project is working to develop proof of concept for an approach to designing, packaging and marketing river restoration work. This is with a view to enabling the project to attract the private sector funding that will be crucial to scaling up nature recovery work of this kind, and addressing the biodiversity crisis.

We are now working with stakeholders at several pilot sites to develop restoration works, and design environmental monitoring plans, contract terms, structures and community benefits.  Pilot sites have been selected as those where there is considerable potential for ecological enhancement, but also where there are other river-related issues to which river restoration work, allowing the river more space, might play a role in the solution.

Additionally, we are also scouring the catchment, engaging with landowners and land-managers to identify future restoration potential across the catchment, building a pipeline of investment-ready project sites.

GFT has contracted Galbraith and Southern Upland Partnership to provide expertise and guidance on all matters relating to natural capital and community benefits respectively.

This project is supported by The Facility for Investment Ready Nature in Scotland known as FIRNS. Delivered by NatureScot in collaboration with The Scottish Government and in partnership with the National Lottery Heritage Fund