Nature Conservation
The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries on earth; 41% of our wildlife species have shown significant declines between 1970 and 2013. Even our supposedly best protected areas - our national parks and nature reserves - have witnessed a similar deterioration. In order to reverse these declines and revitalize our landscapes, it is clear we need fresh ideas and more radical approaches to create positive and lasting change.
That is why we partnered with Action for Conservation and 20 young activists to create the Penpont Project – the first intergenerational initiative of its kind. Together, young people, ecologists, farmers and local community members are helping to shape and deliver a long-term vision for nature recovery across the estate. Inspired by Wales' pioneering Future Generations Act, the project places the needs of future generations at the heart of land management decisions.
Over the past 6 years, The Penpont Project has enacted a holistic nature restoration programme combining conservation, regenerative farming and woodland enhancement.
Our work includes:
Restoring wildflower meadows and species-rich grasslands.
Reintroducing native plant species to support pollinators and wildlife.
Trialling innovative grazing approaches to improve water retention, soil health and biodiversity.
Expanding conservation grazing to improve habitat diversity.
Reducing agricultural inputs and adopting low-input land management practices.
Transitioning to regenerative, organic-standard farming systems.
Restoring wetlands and freshwater habitats including protecting sensitive riverine habitats.
Actively restoring woodland and enhancing habitat connectivity across the landscape.
Conversion of forestry systems to continuous cover forestry
Exploring species reintroductions
“The wild is not about pristine landscapes. Instead, it's about landscapes that are rich and diverse enough to be interesting for everybody, human and non-human alike. When an ecosystem is fully functioning, all the members are present at the assembly. To speak of wilderness is to speak of wholeness.”
— Gary Snyder
