TRT Extra (Summer 2008) - Community Action

Respect the countryside

Help to protect the countryside when out and about this summer; make sure you and your family follow these top tips from the Countryside Code.

For the full Countryside Code, visit www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk.

Be safe, plan ahead and follow any signs

• Even when going out locally in Three Rivers and the surrounding area it’s important to know the latest information about where and when you can go. For example, some areas of land may be restricted from time to time, while maintenance work is carried out or during breeding seasons. If in doubt refer to up-to-date maps and guidebooks, or contact local information centres.
• Ensure you check weather conditions before leaving and always tell somebody where you are going; mobile phone signal can be patchy in the depths of the countryside

Leave gates and property as you find them

• A farmer will usually leave a gate closed to keep livestock in, but may occasionally leave it open for the animals to access food and water. Make sure you leave gates as you find them and follow the advice on signs.
• In fields where crops are growing, try to follow the paths.
• Leave machinery and livestock alone; if you think an animal may be in distress alert the farmer.

Protect plants and animals and take your litter home

• Dropping litter and dumping rubbish are criminal offences; make sure you leave the unspoilt countryside as you find it and take all litter home with you.
• Farm animals and wild animals can be unpredictable, so give them a wide berth.
• Fires can be devastating to the countryside and its wildlife, so make sure you never drop a lit match or smouldering cigarette.

Keep dogs under close control

• By law, you must control your dog so that it does not disturb or scare farm animals or wildlife. Farmers are legally entitled to destroy a dog that injures or worries their animals. Make sure your dog is on the lead when around livestock and under close control at all other times.
• If a farm animal chases you or your dog, it is safer to let your dog off the lead; don’t risk yourself trying to protect it.
• Leaving dog mess lying around is irresponsible, unpleasant and can cause infections. Always clean up after your dog dispose of the mess responsibly.

Consider other people

• By law, cyclists must give way to walkers or riders on bridleways. Slow down when passing horses and livestock and give them a wide berth.
• Keep out of the way when livestock is being moved and follow directions from the farmer.
• Think about others; the countryside is to be enjoyed by everyone.