AN EXMOOR woodland ranger is being celebrated by Cotsworld Outdoor as an environmental champion for making an exceptional contribution to her local area. 

Aislinn Mottahedin-Fardo, a National Trust woodland ranger at the Holnicote Estate on Exmoor National Park, works to protect the natural environment for future generations.

She has become one of the faces of Cotswold Outdoor's new outdoor heroes advertising campaign. 

Aislinn, 31, said: "I live and breathe my job, I absolutely love it, and I’m beyond thrilled to be the face of Cotswold Outdoor’s new campaign.

"There’s a whole team of us, so I see this as recognition for all the rangers.

"We all work tirelessly to care for the countryside and preserve the natural environment so it’s healthy, safe and beautiful with functioning and resilient ecosystems while enabling visitors to access and enjoy it." 

Inspired by her family's love of the outdoors, Aislinn is dedicated to conservation. 

"Growing up, we lived in the countryside, and my dad got us out in all weathers to explore, jump in puddles, play in the woods and encouraged us to litter pick," she said. 

"We spent our summers down on the beach and walking in the Brecon Beacons.

"My sisters and I spent a lot of time in our waterproofs!

"From a very young age, I was captivated by the world we live in and was aware of the impact things like litter have on our planet.

"My dad really encouraged this interest, so I have him to thank for where I am today." 

After completing a degree and a master's in biology and animal behaviour, Aislinn worked as an assistant trainee ranger on Flat Holm and Lundy Islands before landing her dream role as a woodland ranger on Exmoor. 

"Some days, I wake up, and I can’t believe how lucky I am," she said.

"My job is so varied; I look after the trees from planting and thinning, which helps spread light to the woodland floor and encourages wildlife, to making sure they’re safe.

"During my seven years with the National Trust, I’ve been responsible for planting around 5,000 trees, which is incredible.

"The weather dictates much of what we do as rangers. 

"For example, nesting season is during spring and summer, so tree maintenance is kept to a minimum."

Fighting climate change is a significant part of Aislinn's job.  

"Trees are essential to help stop climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the air, storing carbon in the trees and soil, and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere," she said.  

"Now, more than ever, we are having to think about the next few centuries and consider which species of trees will survive and help minimise the damage to our planet."

Aislinn also mentors apprentices completing the National Trust's 18-month scheme.

The scheme fosters the apprentices' passion for the environment through hands-on experience. 

The apprenticeships are open to people of all ages, so the scheme includes young people and those seeking a career change. 

Aislinn said: "I’m extremely proud to mentor these amazing people who genuinely love the outdoor environment as much as I do.

"We’re so keen to open up new routes and help people take up a future career in the conservation sector and beyond."

Leading outdoor retailer Cotswold Outdoor recently launched a new multi-media advertising campaign to highlight the importance of sustainability. 

The campaign focuses on finding community environmental heroes like Aislinn, who make a real difference to the planet.

To champion them, successful candidates will star on advertising billboards.

Speaking about becoming a face of Cotswold Outdoor's new heroes campaign, Aislinn said: "It was a huge surprise and a big honour, and I’m proud of the whole team of rangers and everyone out there who does their bit for the environment.

"Every time I see my face on the billboards, I have to do a double-take as I still can’t believe it!

"I really believe in the sentiment of this campaign and Cotswold Outdoor’s wider sustainability aims.

"I believe it will help inspire and encourage people to care more about our planet while enjoying the great outdoors." 

Jose Finch, managing director at Outdoor and Cycle Concepts Ltd. - the parent company of Cotswold Outdoor - said: "The outdoors really is what we make it, and it’s stars like Aislinn, who go above and beyond to help protect and care for ecosystems and are hugely passionate about the world we live in, who make a real difference.

"By showcasing exemplary local heroes, we aim to celebrate their achievements, show them how much their efforts are appreciated and allow them to reflect and revel in their outstanding contribution to the environment.

"Who better to explain the importance and beauty of protecting our planet than experts who are out there, getting hands-on every day?" 

Aislinn added: "I don’t think many people go back to their place of work on their days off. I do!

"I will never take the spectacular countryside for granted, and I spend every spare minute exploring and learning and understanding the astounding beauty and complexity of the earth.

"We all have the opportunity to make positive changes to help our planet, and it’s our collective responsibility to do our bit.

"I’m proud to work with Cotswold Outdoor and champion their sustainability message. 

"It’s fantastic to see a retailer inspiring customers to make small but impactful changes."