Countryfile – Borrowdale: The Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, characterized by rugged peaks, sweeping valleys, and serene lakes that have inspired poets and artists for centuries. Yet, beyond these iconic vistas lies a lesser-known treasure: the Borrowdale Oakwoods, a remnant of England’s once vast temperate rainforests. These ancient woodlands are among the rarest habitats on Earth, a living relic of the primeval forests that once cloaked much of Britain. This year, these woods have gained national recognition, officially declared as the Borrowdale Rainforest National Nature Reserve, covering 721 hectares of precious and biodiverse terrain.
In this episode of Countryfile, Sean Fletcher embarks on a journey through this newly established nature reserve, delving deep into the heart of the Borrowdale Rainforest. He meets with the dedicated team responsible for safeguarding this ancient landscape, learning about the delicate balance they must strike between conserving the fragile ecosystem and supporting the livelihoods of local farmers who have shaped the land for generations. The challenge is to manage the reserve in a way that allows both nature and agriculture to thrive, ensuring the survival of this rare habitat while respecting the cultural heritage of the area.
As Sean explores the rainforest, he discovers the rich tapestry of life that flourishes within its bounds. The Borrowdale Oakwoods are home to an extraordinary array of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else in the UK. Among the most fascinating inhabitants of this rainforest are the microscopic lichens and mosses that play a crucial role in transforming a simple woodland into a true rainforest. These tiny organisms are not just passive residents; they are active engineers of the ecosystem, helping to regulate moisture, providing food and habitat for other species, and contributing to the overall health of the forest.
The importance of these small, often overlooked species cannot be overstated. Lichens, for instance, are bioindicators, their presence or absence telling us much about the health of the environment. Mosses, on the other hand, are vital in maintaining the humidity levels necessary for the rainforest to thrive. Sean learns how these organisms, though minuscule, are foundational to the ecosystem, supporting a complex web of life that includes rare insects, birds, and mammals.
As evening descends, the Borrowdale Rainforest reveals another of its secrets. Sean ventures out in search of one of the UK’s most elusive and endangered species: a rare moth that makes its home in this unique environment. The moth, whose identity is closely linked to a specific flower, represents the intricate relationships that define this ecosystem. The flower, which possesses a fascinating mechanism of exploding when touched, is critical to the moth’s lifecycle, providing it with the necessary resources to survive and reproduce. This symbiotic relationship highlights the delicate balance within the rainforest, where the survival of one species often depends on the existence of another.
Beyond the confines of the rainforest, the surrounding landscape is equally captivating. Sean visits a project dedicated to restoring a traditional lowland hay meadow, a once-common feature of the British countryside that has become increasingly rare due to modern agricultural practices. These meadows, rich in wildflowers and grasses, are not only beautiful but also essential for biodiversity, supporting a wide range of insects, birds, and small mammals. The restoration work aims to bring back this vibrant habitat, providing a haven for wildlife and preserving a vital part of the natural heritage.
Countryfile – Borrowdale
Further down the valley, Borrowdale hosts an event that, in its own way, celebrates the rugged beauty of the landscape: the Borrowdale Fell Race. This grueling 17-mile cross-country race, now in its 50th year, challenges competitors to navigate one of the most demanding courses in the UK. The race, which includes a climb of over 6,500 feet, takes runners up Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding fells. For those who take part, the race is more than just a test of endurance; it is a deep connection to the landscape, a way to experience the wild beauty of Borrowdale in its rawest form.
While Sean immerses himself in the natural wonders of Borrowdale, over in the Cotswolds, another story unfolds. Adam Henson’s farm is abuzz with the activity of harvest season, a time of both hard work and celebration. The fields, golden with ripened crops, are a testament to months of labor and the enduring rhythms of the agricultural year. As the combine harvesters roll across the fields, Adam reflects on the challenges and rewards of farming, from the uncertainty of the weather to the satisfaction of a good yield.
Meanwhile, Tom Heap investigates a growing concern that is casting a shadow over both rural and urban environments alike: the spread of potentially toxic chemicals. These substances, which can be found in everything from agricultural pesticides to household products, are increasingly being detected in our food, water, and even our bodies. Tom explores the sources of these chemicals, the risks they pose to human health and the environment, and the measures being taken to address the issue. His investigation reveals the complex and often hidden ways in which these chemicals enter the ecosystem, challenging us to rethink our relationship with the environment and the products we use every day.
This episode of Countryfile offers a deep and varied exploration of the British countryside, from the ancient rainforests of Borrowdale to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds. It is a reminder of the richness of our natural heritage and the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve it for future generations. Whether through the lens of conservation, agriculture, or environmental science, the stories told here highlight the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of nurturing the landscapes that sustain us.
F.A.Q. Countryfile – Borrowdale
Q.: What makes the Borrowdale Rainforest National Nature Reserve unique?
A.: The Borrowdale Rainforest National Nature Reserve is unique because it is one of the last remaining temperate rainforests in England. Spanning 721 hectares, this ancient woodland is a rare and precious ecosystem, featuring a diverse range of flora and fauna, including microscopic lichens and mosses that are vital to the forest’s health and sustainability.
Q.: Why was the Borrowdale Rainforest designated as a National Nature Reserve?
A.: The Borrowdale Rainforest was designated as a National Nature Reserve to protect and conserve its unique biodiversity and rare habitats. This recognition highlights the importance of preserving ancient woodlands, which are vital not only for the species that inhabit them but also for maintaining ecological balance and supporting environmental sustainability.
Q.: What role do lichens and mosses play in the Borrowdale Rainforest ecosystem?
A.: Lichens and mosses play a crucial role in the Borrowdale Rainforest ecosystem by regulating moisture levels, providing habitats for other species, and contributing to the overall health of the forest. These small but significant organisms are essential in transforming the woodland into a thriving rainforest environment.
Q.: How does the Borrowdale Rainforest balance conservation with local agriculture?
A.: The Borrowdale Rainforest balances conservation with local agriculture by working closely with farmers to ensure that both the natural environment and agricultural activities can coexist sustainably. This approach involves managing the land in a way that supports biodiversity while also respecting the cultural and economic needs of the local farming community.
Q.: What are some key attractions in the Borrowdale area besides the rainforest?
A.: Besides the Borrowdale Rainforest, the area is known for its stunning landscapes, including rugged peaks, sweeping valleys, and serene lakes. One of the key attractions is the Borrowdale Fell Race, a challenging 17-mile cross-country event that takes runners through some of the most dramatic scenery in the Lake District, including an ascent of Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak.