Creating a Sustainable Ecology in the UK Countryside
Creating a Sustainable Ecology in the UK Countryside
The United Kingdom mainland is known for its rolling hills and verdant scenery. As densely populated areas are growing it becomes more apparent that preserving these natural landscapes and creating a sustainable ecology is going to take a conscious effort. While pressure to use land for projects such as building or wind turbines mounts it is becoming increasingly difficult for farmers to work the land for a worthwhile return.
In order to address these kinds of problems the NINIEVEH Charitable Trust was established. This is a non profit organisation that is dedicated to furthering research and work in the fields of conservation, agriculture, horticulture, silviculture land management and sustainable ecology.
The history of the trust began when Marjorie F James (then known as Marjorie Russell) purchased a farm in 1951 following the end of World War II. She worked with Thomas E James to develop it and enjoyed great success. This venture expanded to several farms in the area which totalled nearly 1000 acres. With their growing knowledge of horticultural and agricultural they turned the area into a place of outstanding natural beauty.
In 1959 the couple were married and despite Thomas's commitments to his academic legal career as a lecturer at the King's College London, they were able to continue to develop the countryside in Kent.
Tom's nephew, Michael James was appointed a trustee to represent their views in the event of their deaths. He now operates the trust with several other trustees who were closely linked with the couple.
The continued work of the trust has allowed several organisations to carry out research and projects thanks to their funding. The trust is always looking for new innovations in research and development to help create a sustainable ecology in the United Kingdom.