Stretton Hills Community Wildlife Group Launch

23rd February, 2012

7:00pm, at Church Stretton Methodist Hall

wildlife

Have you ever spotted an interesting butterfly, plant or bird and wished you knew what it was? You may enjoy watching wildlife programs on TV, but did you know that there are fascinating, rare and threated species living right on your doorstep? The Stretton Hills are a spectacular and diverse natural environment that has intrigued generations of naturalists. Local residents are now being offered the opportunity to continue this tradition of discovering and conserving local wildlife.

The Rural Development Programme for England LEADER scheme is funding a project to set up a Community Wildlife Group in the Stretton Hills, adding to groups already established elsewhere in South Shropshire. The aim is to bring together local residents who are interested in wildlife and help them to spot and record important local species.

It will be down to the group to decide what aspects of local biodiversity they would like to look at, but there are a wide range of options, with experts on hand to provide training. A number of organisations will be working together to help the Community Wildlife group get started. This includes the Shropshire Hills AONB, National Trust, Shropshire Council, The Wildlife Trust and the Shropshire Ecological Data Network.

Surveys undertaken by community wildlife groups can show when species are declining and help ensure that the best local habitats are protected. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of something fun, which also creates a lasting legacy in the Stretton Hills area. If you are interested in taking part come along to the launch evening on February 23^rd 7:00pm at the Church Stretton Methodist Hall. Please contact Gareth Parry for more information email:Gareth.parry@shropshire.gov.uk, telephone 01743 252543.