Countryside Management Service

We have a number of leafleted walks that are aimed at beginners or those walking specifically to improve their health. Find one in your area and give it a go.

The Countryside Management Service (CMS) has been working with communities in Hertfordshire for 30 years, helping them to care for and enjoy the environment.

Barn Owl Project in Holwell, Ickleford and Pirton

Local communities, supported by CMS, are encouraging Barn Owls and improving the landscape for wildlife and people in this part of the county.

Once a common sight in Hertfordshire, the Barn Owl has declined dramatically, by 70 % in the last 70 years. This year however 5 pairs of owls successfully raised young, several making good use of nest boxes made by project. A complete cross-section of the community has been involved, 467 people have contributed 275 days of their time to a range of activities. Local school children designed the project logo, volunteers have planted new hedgerows, built nest boxes and lead guided walks.

A free leaflet is now available showing a series of ‘Barn Owl Walks’ in the three parishes, taking you into countryside used by Barn Owls. Although they are elusive birds, if you follow the routes you may be lucky enough to see one. You can download the leaflet here. (pdf, 868kb).