CONSERVATION

Countryside Code 

Respect other people by considering the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors, by respecting the needs of local people and visitors by not blocking gateways, driveways or any other paths with your vehicles. Also when driving a vehicle or riding a bike, slow down to stop for horses, walkers and any other farm animals to give them plenty of room to pass. Co-operate with people working in the countryside for example, keep out of the way when farm animals are being gathered or moved by following specific directions from the farmer. Leave gates and property as you find them and follow paths unless wider access is available

Protect the natural environment and leave no trace of your visit by taking your litter home. Protecting the natural environment means taking special care not to damage, destroy or remove features in the countryside such as rocks, plants and trees. The countryside provides homes and food for wildlife to add to everybody’s enjoyment. Litter and leftover food doesn’t just spoil the enjoyment of the countryside, it can be dangerous to wildlife and farm animals, so take your litter home with you. Dropping litter and dumping rubbish are criminal offences. If you are dog owners it is your responsibility to keep your dog under control and clean up afterwards.

Consideration	Reason
Flora	Being aware of flowers in the countryside when walking through woods and fields etc… to avoid trampling over the unique flowers and destroying the beauty of the countryside.
Fauna	When out in the countryside walkers need to be aware of the birds in the area and ensure they do not disturb them or destroy any of their habitats, as birds often build their nest on the ground.
Noise Pollution	The lake district is a peaceful and tranquil area therefore it is important as visitors to control the amount of noise pollution, to ensure no wildlife or people living in the area are not disturbed.
Litter	Litter and leftover food doesn’t just spoil the enjoyment of the countryside; it can be dangerous to wildlife and other farm animals, so disposing rubbish is vital. Dropping litter and dumping rubbish is also a criminal offence.
Carbon Monoxide Pollution	People often drive in their own cars when visiting the countryside, where they could share vehicles instead or even walk to the destination.
Pathways	When visiting the countryside people sometimes get distracted and wonder off the paths provided, this courses wildlife and habitats to get trampled on.
Toilet waste	When out in the countryside there are no toilet facilities available so people use plants as waste products instead, so to improve this toilet facilities could be made available for walkers.
Gates	Ensure gates are closed so that animals don’t escape from farms and cause further damage to the countryside.
Crossing Rivers	Ensure that you cross rivers at appropriate places when involved in outdoor activities in the countryside to avoid any injury or hazards.