Although it may seem a rural idyll, West Dorset is no different to many other parts of the UK, with its 'biodiversity' - the variety of life - having been hugely depleted over the last 70+ years. We have set up this charity now because we understand the problems facing nature, how this impacts on all of us, and how, as custodians of the land, we can start to make a difference on our doorstep. See how we're doing that through different projects throughout West Dorset.
Low intensity cattle grazing in the rewilding area at Mapperton Wildlands.
Photo: © Sam Rose 2021
Marbled White butterflies love the flower of thistles that grow in scrubby rewilding landscapes
Photo: © Sam Rose 2021
We are focusing our attention initially on the wider Brit River catchment, which includes the areas around the Symene, the Asker, the Brit and the Mangerton rivers. Within this area we aim to bring together landowners and farmers into a coalition of the willing to improve nature at a catchment scale. The Brit Valley Project began in 2024.
You can read more about our events and individual projects on our Blog.
BEAVER CAM FOOTAGE
In 2023 we worked in collaboration with Slape Manor to introduce beavers on their estate. The project is an ongoing success. We regularly update our Beaver Cam page with new footage throughout the seasons, so check in to see how they're doing and who else has come to visit the enclosure.
Follow us on Instagram @westdorsetwilding
