Wildlife habitats symposium confirmed for Welshpool

An event is being held in Welshpool on November 1 that will teach us how we can all help to boost wildlife habitats across the area.

The Montgomeryshire Habitats Management Group (MHMG) has blossomed since its launch nearly four years ago. What began as a small network is now a thriving forum for anyone interested in conserving and managing land for the benefit of wildlife and biodiversity in Montgomeryshire and beyond.

And it has announced a second wildlife habitats symposium for the Cowshacc that will not only share its own success stories, but also teach us how we can all make a difference.

The group’s aim is simple yet powerful: to share knowledge, skills, and resources that help people care for their own patch of land - whether that’s a garden, farm, or estate. With around 150 members, MHMG now brings together a wide range of people, from backyard gardeners to estate owners, to exchange ideas and experiences.

The symposium though is open to all, whether you are a member or not.

This year alone, members have taken part in six site visits, exploring habitats across the county. These included an eco-horticultural business near Llanidloes, a mixed farm near Machynlleth, a large garden and meadow near Berriew, a wetland project near Llanrhaeadr, and ancient semi-natural woodland near Meifod. The final visit of the season will be to coppice woodland near Knighton. Reports of each visit can be found on the group’s website, offering a taste of the knowledge and inspiration shared.

Alongside these visits, MHMG produces a lively monthly newsletter, Habitat Chat, keeping members informed about upcoming events, training courses, volunteer days, book reviews, and the latest conservation news. Membership is open to all and can be arranged easily via the website.

Entitled “Managing Habitats From the Ground Up”, the second Welshpool symposium will bring together expert speakers for a full day of engaging presentations, discussion, and networking.

The programme includes:

• Of Meadows and Microbes – Nature’s Elixir for Life – Eddie Bailey & Paul Jupp, Rhisophyllia
• Small-scale Wetland: Value and Management – Dewi Morris, Severn Rivers Trust
• What Really is Regenerative Agriculture? – Clare Hill, Planton Farm
• Scrub: The Unsung Hero of Habitats – Nicola Wheeler & Simon Cope, Oakwood Ecology
• Woodland as Habitat: Valuing Nature and Managing Biodiversity – Simon James, Small Woods

Homemade cakes and refreshments will be available, and participants are invited to bring their own lunch to enjoy while chatting with fellow habitat enthusiasts.

Tickets are available now via the MHMG website: www.Mont-HMG.co.uk.

The group looks forward to welcoming new and returning faces for what promises to be a day full of learning, inspiration, and lively conversation.