The John Muir Trust is well known for its work in conservation and the protection of wild landscapes north of the border in the highlands of Scotland. In an exciting development they have just announced a campaign to buy a wild area of land in Snowdonia. Read on for more information and to see how you can get involved.
Carreg y Saeth Isaf (meaning lower rock of the arrow) is an area of native woodland, heath and bog set deep in one of Snowdonia National Park’s wildest upland areas, the Rhinogydd.
The 105-hectare property stands at the entrance to Cwm Bychan, at the head of the Artro valley. The site’s high wildlife value is recognised by the number of environmental designations, and is home to greatly diverse bird life such as redstarts, black grouse, peregrine and pied flycatchers.
The John Muir Trust is a UK wide organisation with a UK wide membership. They care for wild and remote places for the future benefit of people and wildlife.
The conservation charity is seeking contributions from the public to raise the £500,000 to both purchase the land and also to fund the first three years of management of the property including:
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Volunteering, ecological monitoring and survey work essential property maintenance.
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A new development post in Wales to help support and coordinate their activities in Wales and help to raise their profile.
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Engaging the local/visiting public in the value of wild land and wild places (guided walks, local talks and events).
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Bilingual interpretation of the property and the work of the John Muir Trust.
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Support costs to help JMT achieve their objectives.
All money raised through this appeal will be restricted to JMT’s work to make a positive contribution in Wales.
The well-known Welsh wildlife presenter and naturalist Iolo Williams comments: “It’s a delight to know that this part of wild wales will continue to be cared for with nature in mind. I urge everyone who cares for the wild places of Wales to contribute.”
By caring for Carreg y Saeth Isaf, they state that they hope to contribute to the long term stewardship of Wales’ natural and cultural heritage.
The JMT state that they "hope to support a strong local voice for wild land in Wales and that they will be better placed to deliver a vision that wild land is protected and enhanced and wild places are valued by and for everyone.”
The JMT also acknowledges that there are wild land areas in Wales under threat, notably the Cambrians threatened by wind farms. This purchase does not preclude the JMT from investigating opportunities in these areas when they arise.
The John Muir Trust has a policy of open access while respecting the views of other land managers and constraints imposed by land management operations. They wish people to experience the qualities of the land in a respectful way. It is the JMT’s vision for wild places to be valued by all sectors in society, and for activities like walking, climbing and nature photography to take place in high quality wild land and wild places, providing valuable jobs and income for rural and remote communities.
To get involved and contribute to this campaign and appeal visit the JMT website.
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